Transforming basketball games into an event. This is the concept being pursued by the Marketing Department for Flamengo's games at the HSBC Arena. And that's what fans will be able to experience this Sunday at 11 a.m., when the two-time national champion faces Assis in the Novo Basquete Brasil tournament in Barra da Tijuca. "Our idea is to make the game fully entertaining for all audiences, including children, not only during the time our players are on the court, but also during all breaks," explains Alexandre Oliveira, from Flamengo's Olympic Sports Marketing department.

This Sunday's main attraction is the hip-hop group Família Kponne. Founded five years ago, Família Kponne has appeared on television programs such as Na Balada (on CNT Network), coverage of the Hutuz Rap Festival Edição (Canal Multishow, on NET), and Atitude (on TV da Educativa). The group's members include rappers "Du-Brown," Highlander Lone, Xandão do Gueto, and DJ G2, who claim to have created the Afro-hip-hop movement, which brings together artists from all over the country and thousands of people to follow the four elements of hip-hop culture: graffiti, DJs, b-boys, MCs, and street basketball.

The game will feature other attractions. The players will be introduced by master of ceremonies Tony Boss, FlaBasquete's official announcer, who will be responsible for distributing official club gifts during the game. During all intermissions, entertainment is guaranteed with DJ Zé do R, who will play live electronic beats combined with old Brazilian music classics.

Kids are also guaranteed fun with the antics of Uruba & Urubinha, Flamengo's official mascots (www.mascotes.com.br). Tickets can be purchased online at www.ingressofacil.com.br, at Ingresso Facil outlets, and at the HSBC Arena box office.

The HSBC Arena is located at Avenida Embaixador Abelardo Bueno, 3401 – Barra da Tijuca www.hsbcarena.com.br.