The end of an era. At the final whistle of game four of the semifinal series between Flamengo and Mogi, Brazilian basketball felt a heavy blow. Everyone knew this moment would come, but when it actually happens, it's difficult. From that moment on, Marcelo Magalhães Machado would join the ranks of former players. Known—and respected—worldwide as Marcelinho, the master of impossible three-pointers would no longer display his talent on the court. The title to crown his farewell never came, but the respect and admiration of all came in social media posts from other players, teams, journalists, and even the nation. 

Marcelinho was an idol to the athletes. Partners in past achievements like Nico Laprovittola and Gegê Chaia left their message for C4pitão. 

 

Some rivals from the current season also left messages of admiration for the star who is retiring from the court. Alex, from Bauru, made a point of thanking Marcelinho for the rivalry that made him a better player and for his friendship on the national team. 

Paulistano point guard Yago Mateus played in some rivalry-filled classics against Marcelinho. But when it came time to say goodbye, he said he felt honored to share the court with his idol and posted a photo of the two together at the last All-Star Game. 

And, of course, his brother Duda, a partner in so many achievements and who played for Basquete Cearense last season, paid tribute. He knew this was coming and made several statements throughout the season about his brother's farewell. 

Duda also left a moving testimony for his brother in our #ObrigadoC4pitão series on FlaTV. Check it out below. 

Duda's team wasn't far behind. Solar Basquete Cearense posted a message to Marcelinho on their Twitter account. 

And the Nation? Of course, the fans wouldn't fail to send their message. We got some responses from thank you post from Team Flamengo and paste it below. 

The thanks will never end. As the days go by, more fans, players, and clubs will also send their messages to one of the greatest players in the history of Brazilian sports and, without a doubt, the greatest name in Flamengo basketball of all time. For us at Flamengo, after 10 state championships, six Brazilian championships (four NBBs and two in the old format), a South American League, a League of the Americas, and a Club World Cup, all that remains is to say, forever, Thank you, C4pitão.