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Leandrinho counts down the hours until the premiere

The red-and-black star participated in a press conference before the match against Brasília

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Counting down the hours until he dons the red-and-black jersey for the first time. That's how NBA star Leandrinho is feeling on the eve of his Flamengo debut. The player will be on the court on Sunday (October 09.10th) in a friendly against Brasília, at 11 am, at the Nilson Nelson gymnasium in Brasília. Sportv will broadcast the match live. Flamengo will play at full strength.

On the afternoon of this Friday (07.10), Leandrinho participated in a press conference alongside the red-blacks Caio Torres and Kammerichs and coach Gonzalo Garcia, at the headquarters of UniCEUB (University Center of Brasília). Also present were Brasília players Alex, Guilherme Giovannoni, Nezinho and Arthur.

"I'm really excited, counting down the minutes until this game. It's going to be great to debut for Flamengo in one of the biggest classics in Brazilian basketball. I hope the gym is packed. I don't mind playing with the fans against me, especially since I know the red-and-blacks will also be there," said Leandrinho.

Despite being a friendly, the winner of the match will take home the João Herculino trophy. And the rivalry has already taken hold of the players.

"Although we know each other well and each knows the other's style of play, it's different when the game comes. You can't predict what will happen. I hope Flamengo comes out on top, but, of course, playing with fairness and respect for the opponent," said Caio Torres, who was on the team that won the Olympic spot alongside Alex and Guilherme.

The star of the game, Leandrinho makes no secret of his desire to see the Brazilian fans again. The forward/guard has been playing in the NBA since 2003.

"The fans here are very different. They sing louder, scream, and vibrate more," said the player, praising the current state of Brazilian basketball.

"I'm very happy to be back playing in Brazil at such a positive time. The National League has evolved a lot, it has top-level teams, and it's been a pleasure to play here," he concluded.

For coach Gonzalo Garcia, the friendly will be good preparation for Flamengo's challenges this season: the South American League and the NBB.

"We hope to find the chemistry and harmony necessary to come away with the victory in this game and in the upcoming matches. Today, we are a group of great players. We need to form a great team. And that will happen over time," said the coach.

For Argentine Kammerichs, the challenge is adapting to the Brazilian style of play.

"The game here is faster, more dynamic. But I really like it. The idea is to adapt as quickly as possible. We have a big match ahead against Brasília and I'm anxious to see how we'll perform on the court," he added.