The team led by coach José Neto traveled to Fortaleza last Thursday (22.10), to play two friendlies against Solar Cearense, as a way of preparing for the 2015/2016 season of the Novo Basquete Brasil (NBB). 10 players – Rafael Luz (#5), Gegê (#19), Danielzinho (#15), Marquinhos (#11), Jason Robinson (#24), Mingau (#23), Rafael Mineiro (#12), Olivinha (#16), JP Batista (#13) and Jerome Meyinsse (#55) – and the FlaBasquete coaching staff, embarked for the northeast of Brazil. The first match took place on Friday (23.10) and Flamengo won 68 to 58. On Sunday (25.10), the home team won better, with a score of 85 to 82.

 

"These were two very important friendlies against a team that already has the rhythm of the game. Solar Cearense had already played eight matches before playing Flamengo. This was crucial for our team, playing against an opponent that was already in sync. It was good for us to be able to put into practice what we train daily, and also to make the necessary rotations. For the purpose, it was very important," analyzes Neto.

 

Furthermore, the matches served as a first "test" for newly signed Rafael Mineiro with the team. Prior to that, he had only participated in the match against the Orlando Magic in the NBA Global Games.

 

"Mineiro is a player who has shown a great contribution to the team. That was the expectation when he was signed, and he has shown that he can be very useful in helping Flamengo fight for what we have planned for this season. Before the game against Orlando, he hadn't trained at all, and he was very important in shaping the squad for the start of the NBB and, most importantly, the development of the group as a whole," adds the coach.

 

FlaBasquete's next match will be on Thursday (29.10), to play in the State final.

The Clube de Regatas do Flamengo adult basketball team receives direct funding from its sponsors – SKY, Estácio, and Peugeot – in addition to investments from Tim through the State Sports Incentive Law/State Secretariat of Sports, Leisure, and Youth (ICMS). You can also contribute to the development of new FlaBasquete athletes by becoming a Rubro-Negro Guardian Angel. Simply transfer up to 6% of your income tax due and receive your contribution back in your income tax refund. Join by visiting www.flamengo.com.br/anjodaguarda