All Brazilian basketball fans have a date scheduled for Saturday morning (March 02.03) with the All-Star Game, at the Nilson Nelson Gymnasium in Brasília (DF), at 10:00 am, broadcast live on Rede Globo and SporTV. For the Red-Black Nation, the event has an even more special flavor with Olivinha, Caio, and Marquinhos among the starting lineup for the NBB Brazil team. Taking the coaching spot is another old fan favorite: José Neto. Benite starts on the bench.

 

For Olivinha, the All-Star Game isn't just a reward for a strong season, but a tournament he's well accustomed to. The center is one of three players to have been invited to every edition.

"This is recognition for the work the team has been doing. We've had an excellent campaign in the championship, with only two losses in 24 games, leading the league from the start. So I think there's nothing more fitting than having a large number of players in the All-Star Game. For me, it's another source of pride. This is the result of our daily efforts. I was very happy to be chosen to start the game by popular vote. I've participated in the four previous editions and I'm very happy about it. Now it's time to get out there and have some fun," reveals Olivinha.

On the same day, at 16 p.m., Flamengo and Bauru will rematch last season's Basketball Development League (LDB) final in the semifinals of this year's tournament. This is the under-22 team's chance to continue its fight for a second championship. The "Mais Querido" is undefeated.