It wasn't an easy night. Those who love, follow, and get excited about FlaBasquete certainly aren't used to losing, so few were the times when the Pride of the Nation didn't find itself ahead on the scoreboard at the final whistle. But this Friday (5) happened. Flamengo fought, played in the arms of a tireless crowd that packed the Tijuca Tênis Clube, but couldn't beat Pinheiros in Game 5 of the Novo Basquete Brasil CAIXA 9 quarterfinals. It was by a narrow margin, just three points (75-78), that a spot in the semifinals slipped away. This was the first time in the competition's history that the Rubro-Negro missed this stage. But the NBB's greatest champion, the Champion of Everything, the Greatest in Brazil, leaves with his head held high and with the certainty that he will continue to fill the Nation with Pride.

Match Highlights
Olivinha was a monster on the court. In addition to the usual excitement that filled the stands, the star scored 25 points and grabbed nine rebounds, coming very close to another double-double in the competition. He holds the NBB record for this category. His teammate also excelled on the court, with 13 points and four rebounds. Marquinhos, meanwhile, had ten points, six rebounds, and six assists.

Hello, teacher
After the match, José Neto lamented the result, but highlighted the players' integrity. "The result weighs heavily. But I believe we have to consider what we've suffered this season, everything we've been through. I told them (the players) that we leave here with integrity. It has to be that way. This is what sports are all about, and life goes on. The fans did their part. I feel indebted to the fans and want to make amends as soon as possible."