The Brazilian Basketball Confederation (CBB) released last week the list of players called up for the South American Under-21 Championship, which takes place between August 12 and 17, in Colombia. Among the representatives of Brazil are two red-blacks: the shooting guard Pedro Nunes and the Assistant Coach of the Mais Querido adult team, Fernando Pereira. The pair embarked together with the other members of the team on Tuesday night (6) towards the city of Tunja, site of the competitions.

According to the CBB, preparations will take place between August 7th and 11th, combining training and friendlies. Immediately afterward, starting on the 12th, Brazil will begin its Group A matches, alongside Uruguay and Paraguay. Argentina, Colombia, Chile, and Venezuela will also compete in Group B.

For Diego Jeleilate, manager of the red-black basketball team, the recognition of Fernandinho's work is due exclusively to his effort.

"Fernandinho stood out for his dedication. He pursued what he didn't know, and perfected what he struggled with. When the season (NBB) came to an end, despite winning the title, he came here to ask to participate in other international courses, so he could continue improving." He adds:

 

"At the end of the championship, and few people know this, the Brazilian Bar Association (CBB) approached him to be one of the assistant coaches for the U-16 team, but we were in the most important phase of the adult team, the playoffs. We talked to him and told him he was getting an opportunity with the U-16 team, and now he's with the U-21 team, which means a little more recognition."

 

In the initial stage, all teams play each other in a single round robin within their respective brackets. The top two teams in each bracket advance to the semifinals. The winners of the semifinals determine the champion.

12/08/2019 - 17:15 pm: Brazil vs Paraguay

08/14/2019 - 19:15 pm: Brazil vs. Uruguay

08/16/2019 – Semifinals

08/17/2019 – Bronze medal match / Gold medal match