Flamengo beat Pinheiros 80-75 on Thursday night (19), at Maracanãzinho, in the return of the Pride of the Nation to the Novo Basquete Brasil (NBB). With the result, Mais Querido reaches 23rd victory in 29 games in the national competition and returns to the top of the table alongside Pinheiros and Franca.

In a match of highs and lows, Flamengo saw their opponent control the action for most of the game, even taking a lead in the first quarter and maintaining it until halftime. In the second half, Flamengo improved their performance, gradually reduced the difference, and, spurred on by the fans at Maracanãzinho, found their best form in the final period. With intensity, important three-point shots, and the leading role of their key players, the beloved team turned the game around in the final minutes to secure another home victory.

Now, Flamengo continues its home run in Rio de Janeiro and returns to the court this Friday (20), against Osasco, again at Maracanãzinho. Following that, they face Paulistano on Monday. The Biggest Fanbase in the World is more than welcome to attend and support. Secure your place at ingressos.flamengo.com.br

The Game

1st Bedroom

The game started evenly, with baskets being traded in the first few minutes. Wesley converted for two points and Shaq Johnson hit a three-pointer, keeping the game tied at 5-5. Pinheiros then managed to impose their rhythm, opened up a lead of 17-8, forcing Flamengo to call a timeout. Even after the adjustment, the visitors continued to control the game and closed the period at 30-20.

2st Bedroom

Flamengo came back stronger in the second quarter and, with a good performance from Shaq Johnson, started a comeback: 6-3 in the quarter, reducing the score to 33-26. Pinheiros, however, reorganized offensively and regained control of the game. Even so, Flamengo remained competitive and managed to cut the difference to just four points before halftime: 45-41.

3st Bedroom

After returning from the locker room, the game intensified. Wesley Castro performed well with two difficult baskets, while Gui Deodato, with a three-pointer, reduced the difference to just one point. Alexey Negrete also contributed from the perimeter and kept Flamengo close on the scoreboard. Despite the pressure from Flamengo, Pinheiros managed to maintain the lead and closed the quarter at 61-58.

4st Bedroom

The final period marked a turning point for Flamengo. Early on, Gui Deodato tied the game with a three-pointer and, shortly after, put Flamengo ahead for the first time, again from beyond the arc. From then on, the duel became even more competitive, with alternating possessions and high intensity from both sides. In the final minutes, Alex Negrete took center stage, assumed responsibility, and was decisive in securing the comeback. With maturity, Flamengo closed out the game 80-75.

Next challenge

The Pride of the Nation returns to the court this Friday (20), to face Osasco, at 20 pm, at Maracanãzinho, for the NBB.

Starting Quintet

Franco Baralle, Shaq Johnson, Gui Deodato, Markeith Cummings and Wesley Castro.

Coach: Sergio Hernandez.