Flamengo point guard Gegê's Monday (June 3.06) began with a surprise. He was informed by phone that his name had been included on the list of players called up to the Brazilian New Players' National Team. The initial call-up was made almost two weeks ago, and Vitor Benite was the only Flamengo player selected to represent the country. The two Flamengo players will be joined by José Neto, who will be one of coach Ruben Magnano's assistants.

"I didn't expect the call-up. The list had already been out for over a week, and I was focused on the NBB semifinals. I wanted to be champion and didn't let myself get down about not being called up. I had a good semifinal series, did well in the final, and the call-up was a consequence. It was a reward for my good season. Words can't describe my last few days. On Saturday, I was NBB champion, and on Monday morning, I was called up," said Gegê.

As Gegê said, Flamengo was champion of the New Basketball Brazil last Saturday (01.06). The point guard was one of the players under coach José Neto, who justified the call-up of the 22-year-old: "He was called up for his performances in the final games of the season. Not only in the Adult category, but also in the Basketball Development League. The call-up came because of what he presented."

Despite the injury to his right thigh that ruled him out of the NBB final, Vitor Benite will also report to the Brazilian New Players' Team next Sunday (09.06). The training in São Paulo aims to prepare for the International Tournament in France, a competition that will be held from July 02nd to 04th.