Author: Monojit Mandal
Score: São Paulo 96 – 79 Flamengo
São Paulo continued their impressive run in the semi-finals of the Novo Basquete Brasil (NBB), securing a dominant 96-79 victory over Flamengo in the second game of the best-of-five series. The high-level match, held at the Morumbi gymnasium, saw São Paulo take advantage of home-court advantage and extend their lead to 2-0 in the series. With Flamengo facing a must-win situation in their next game, tensions are running high as both teams strive to secure a place in the championship decider. This article offers an overview of the game, highlighting the key moments, the standout performances and the next crucial clash, which will determine the trajectory of the series.
In an impressive display of basketball prowess, São Paulo maintained their dominance over Flamengo, beating them 96-79 in the second game of the best-of-five semi-final series of the Novo Basquete Brasil (NBB). The intense clash took place on Monday night, May 15, at the Morumbi gymnasium, leaving Flamengo trailing 2-0 and desperately needing a win in their next match to keep their championship hopes alive.
After the initial defeat at home, Flamengo faced a critical situation, needing a win in the third game to maintain their chances of progressing to the finals. However, São Paulo seized the opportunity to break Flamengo’s command of the court once again. Using home advantage to their advantage, São Paulo put in a dominant performance, outplaying the team from Rio de Janeiro throughout the game.
São Paulo’s victory was due to its aggressive defense and remarkable accuracy in three-point shooting, with an impressive 19 three-pointers in 40 attempts. From the second quarter onwards, São Paulo took control of the game. Although Flamengo managed to take a small lead in the first quarter, leading 20-19, they found themselves trailing by five points at the break, with the score 39-34.
Henrique Coelho, São Paulo’s playmaker, attributed the win to the enthusiastic fans, whose presence filled the gym and made a big difference. Coelho acknowledged the challenge Flamengo will face in the next match, as well as the importance of a win to secure a place in the final. He praised the fans, referring to them as the “sixth player” and expressing confidence in their unwavering support.
São Paulo’s top scorer on the night was American center Malcolm Miller. Ineligible to play in the first game due to a suspension, Miller redeemed himself, hitting six of ten shots from beyond the arc, contributing 23 points, four assists and three rebounds to his team’s victory. Playmaker Elinho also stood out with an exceptional performance, racking up 12 points, seven assists and six rebounds. In addition, pivot Lucas Siewert showed his skill by scoring 13 points.
Flamengo’s Argentinian point guard José Vildoza was the team’s top scorer with 13 points. Gui Deodato showed his versatility with 11 points and an impressive nine rebounds, while Argentinian wing Martín Cuello contributed 11 points and four assists to the team’s efforts.
Looking ahead, the focus now turns to the crucial Game 3, which will be played once again in São Paulo on Wednesday, May 17. A win for São Paulo will secure their place in the final. However, Flamengo find themselves in a must-win situation, needing to win to force a fourth match, which would take place in Rio de Janeiro.
The fans are eagerly awaiting the next match, hoping for a thrilling contest between two formidable teams vying for a place in the coveted NBB finals.