Returning to Maracanãzinho after winning the second world championship, FlaBasquete beat Cerrado 69-63 on Wednesday night (2), in the Novo Basquete Brasil (NBB). The highlight of the match for the red-black side was JP Batista with 19 points. Olivinha also had a great performance and achieved a double-double with 14 points and 12 rebounds.

The game
The match began with captain Olivinha scoring two points on the first attack. The God of Race then scored a three-pointer. JP Batista took advantage of the defensive rebound, made a quick transition, and scored two more for Mengão. American Robinson was also well-tuned, making good plays in the paint and converting the points. Olivinha, this time on defense, made a beautiful block and got the Nation cheering at Maracanãzinho. Meanwhile, JP Batista shone on three-pointers, with excellent accuracy. With ease, Orgulho da Nação closed the first quarter ahead: 29-13.

With a strong defense, the red-and-black team didn't give Cerrado any room to score. At the start of the second period, the game became very tight, with numerous stoppages. FlaBasquete couldn't replicate their offensive performance and struggled to score. The team's defensive system was their strong point, neutralizing their opponents, preventing them from getting close. In the final minutes, Olivinha hit a well-timed three-pointer. Despite their lack of offensive effectiveness, the Red-and-Black team remained ahead by a healthy margin: 38-28.

After halftime, JP Batista scored the first two points of the quarter for FlaBasquete. Olivinha, always very effective, converted a three-pointer and then a two-pointer. The Cerrado team fought back and closed the deficit to five points. When the team needed it most, he appeared to work his magic, scoring two points with a beautiful layup after a driving play. Robinson also contributed, hitting three free throws for Mengão. With the red-and-black offense back in action, Gustavinho's team managed to open up another big lead: 55-47.  

In the final quarter, the Pride of the Nation again went several minutes without scoring. In the paint, Robinson provided a beautiful assist to JP Batista, who scored two more points. Balbi, who was also playing very well, received an open ball and hit a three. The Argentine then followed with another three-pointer. In the final stretch, FlaBasquete managed to control the game and secured a 69-63 victory over Cerrado at Maracanãzinho.

Next appointment
The Pride of the Nation returns to the court this Saturday (5) to face Franca, at 16:10 pm, at the Pedrocão gym.

Starting Quintet
Franco Balbi, Brandon Robinson, Mineiro, Olivinha and JP Batista.