With experience and precision, FlaBasquete won again in São Paulo in the NBB. After defeating São Paulo, the Pride of the Nation didn't give in to a close match and put on a devastating display in the final quarter to defeat Paulistano 90-84.

Highlights

Penka Aguirre: 21 points, 3 assists, 3 rebounds

Gabriel Jaú: 13 points, 2 assists, 8 rebounds

Rafael Mineiro: 5 points, 4 assists, 6 rebounds

The game

The match started off tight, with each team attempting a shot but to no avail. The score was opened by Penka Aguirre, who sank a beautiful three-pointer to start the red-and-black scoring. FlaBasquete continued to lead the first quarter, even though Paulistano kept close. Gabriel Jaú also hit a beautiful basket from outside the paint. Late in the period, Paulistano managed to take the lead; but Vildoza capitalized on the time, driving inside, scoring, and winning free throws. Thus, the first half ended 24-23 for FlaBasquete.

Early in the second quarter, Paulistano took the lead, hitting a three-pointer with just over a minute remaining. But Hettsheimeir equalized with two free throws. Luke Martínez hit from distance for three points. On the next play, Paulistano got tangled up on the counterattack, and the Flamengo defense capitalized, and Penka Aguirre put Flamengo back in front. The tie remained for much of the half. Olivinha scored a beautiful three-pointer near the one-minute mark. Barnes scored three points for Paulistano, which was answered by a three-pointer from Luke Martínez. The Mexican was the highlight of the half for Flamengo: nine points, all from long range. As the clock expired, Mineiro performed beautifully: a three-pointer, making it 48-47 for the Pride of the Nation.

Paulistano took the lead after halftime, but the Pride of the Nation didn't hesitate. In less than five minutes, Flamengo had the lead. In the final stretch of the quarter, Vildoza nailed another three-pointer and drew a foul. With Mineiro sharp on defense—the center had three rebounds—and Penka and Jaú on offense (each with four points), Flamengo went into the final period leading 67-64.

With the advantage on the scoreboard, the Mais Querido (the most beloved team) stood firm in the final period to build the game in their favor. Flamengo went five minutes without conceding a point, and their lead grew to fifteen, thanks to baskets from Aguirre, Cuello, Vildoza, and Jaú. The match unfolded positively for the Rubro-Negro, with little space in the defense for Paulistano to develop. The Pride of the Nation was quick to respond to every scoring opportunity the opposing team had.

Starting Quintet

Penka Aguirre, Cuello, Gui Deodato, Gabriel Jaú, Hettsheimeir

Next round

On the 27th, FlaBasquete faces Rio Claro at Tijuca Tênis Clube. The match is part of the NBB, and you can buy your tickets by clicking here.