Author: Monojit Mandal
Lucas Mariano, one of Franca’s main players, emphasized the importance of being focused after his club beat Minas in the quarter-finals of the Novo Basquete Brasil (NBB). The reigning champions took a 2-1 lead over the Minassians in the third game of the series, played at the UniBH Arena in Belo Horizonte.
With the series decided in a best-of-five format, Franca is now just one win away from a place in the finals. Mariano was instrumental in the most recent victory, scoring the winning goal with just two seconds left on the clock.
“We haven‘t achieved anything yet,” said Mariano in an interview with Itatiaia. “We followed our game plan and recognized the talent of the Minas team.“They have a great team, and we struggled during this series. It was a tough game, but we won, which gave us a competitive edge. However, we need to stay focused as there’s still a long way to go.”
The series has now returned to Franca, with the fourth game scheduled for Sunday at the Pedroco arena in the interior of São Paulo. Mariano sees the next game as another chance to show his strengths and strengthen his home advantage.
“It’s a totally new game,” said Mariano.“Because we’re playing at home, we have to fulfill our obligations.” Nothing has been won and nobody has emerged victorious. Our attention must be focused on the fourth game, in which we must give our all to increase our chances of winning at home.”
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The winner of this semi-final will face São Paulo in the NBB final. São Paulo progressed to the final round with a 3-0 win over Flamengo.
Mariano’s call for attention and determination resonates with the team, as Franca prepares for the next critical clash. They understand that complacency will cost them dearly and that their success depends on maintaining momentum and delivering spectacular performances.
The NBB playoffs have reached a critical moment, when every game is crucial. Franca will need to rely on their experience, talent and teamwork to advance to the finals and compete for the coveted championship title.