Flamengo beat Paulistano 84-79 on Monday night (23), at Maracanãzinho, in the third of three consecutive home games for the team in the Novo Basquete Brasil (NBB). With the result, Mais Querido reaches 25th victory in 31 games in the national competition and remains at the top of the table, alongside Pinheiros and Franca.

Before the start of the match, a minute of silence was observed in honor of Marquinhos Abdalla, an idol of Brazilian basketball and former player for the club, who passed away this Sunday. The former player wore the sacred jersey between 1984 and 1986 and, as a Flamengo supporter, was part of the Brazilian National Team at the 1984 Olympic Games. Flamengo expresses its solidarity with family, friends, and admirers during this time of grief.

On the court, the match was balanced from start to finish. After taking the lead in a first quarter with strong offensive production, Flamengo saw Paulistano react and tie the score before halftime (42-42). Returning from the locker room, Flamengo made adjustments and regained control, opening up a lead in the third period. In the final quarter, the team knew how to respond to the opponent's attacks, with decisive shots from beyond the arc, to secure the 84-79 victory and finish the series at Maracanãzinho with a 100% winning record.

Now, Mais Querido prepares to face Brasília, away from home, this Wednesday (25), at 20:15 pm, for the NBB. 

Highlights

Gui Deodato was Flamengo's top scorer in the game, with 17 points, followed by Shaq Johnson with 16, and Kayo Gonçalves, who scored 10, including a four-point play at a crucial moment in the final quarter.

The Game

1st Bedroom

Flamengo started the game with good offensive rhythm and efficiency in their actions, managing to build a lead throughout the period. In a busy quarter, the Rubro-Negro finished ahead 26-21.

2st Bedroom

Paulistano came back stronger and managed to even the score. With constant baskets exchanged and greater intensity from both sides, the visiting team fought back and tied the score before halftime: 42-42.

3st Bedroom

After halftime, Flamengo made adjustments and regained control of the game. With greater consistency, the team built a lead and finished the period ahead: 60 to 53.

4st Bedroom

The final quarter was marked by lead changes. Flamengo started better, but Paulistano reacted and momentarily took the lead. In the final minutes, however, Flamengo was more efficient, with highlights including Kayo Gonçalves' three-pointer with a foul and Gui Deodato and Jhonatan Luz's long-range shots, which secured the 84-79 victory.

Next challenge

The Pride of the Nation returns to the court this Wednesday (25), to face Brasília, away from home, at 20:15 pm, for the NBB.

Starting Quintet

Franco Baralle, Shaq Johnson, Alex Negrete, Jhonatan Luz and Manel

Coach: Sergio Hernandez