Author: Monojit Mandal
Franca 88 – 98 São Paulo
The long-awaited final of the Novo Basquete Brasil (NBB) championship got off to a thrilling start! São Paulo beat Sesi Franca 98-88 in a very tight game, earning an important away win and taking a considerable lead in the opening game. This achievement not only showcases São Paulo’s talent, but also creates the ideal environment for an exciting competition to choose the champion of the national basketball season. The second leg of the best-of-five final is scheduled for Wednesday, May 30, at 9 p.m. in the Morumbi Gymnasium.
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Although both teams put in good performances right from the start, São Paulo didn’t do well in the first period. Sesi Franca, the reigning champions of the 2022 season, began a continuous offensive attack and, at one point, the home club had a 13-point lead. However, by the end of the quarter, the margin had shrunk to nine points, and the game ended with a score of 33-24 in favor of Sesi Franca. In the second quarter, São Paulo quickly regained their rhythm and energy without being affected. They significantly reduced the deficit, sometimes even taking the lead on the scoreboard. Sesi Franca led 49-47 when the first half came to an end, holding a narrow two-point lead.
By outplaying their rivals and building a five-point lead at the end of the third quarter with a score of 75-70, São Paulo showed superior efficiency in the second half. The last phase of the match was characterized by a frantic back and forth score, with both teams fighting bravely for the desired result. São Paulo increased their lead to eight points in the final three minutes, making a comeback unlikely for Sesi Franca, who even halved their lead but were unable to completely turn the game around. As a result, São Paulo won easily with a final score of 98-88.
São Paulo now have the chance to win the Novo Basquete Brasil (NBB) title at home, thanks to this remarkable away win. The third match of the championship will be played on June 3 in Morumbi. The advantage will go to Sesi Franca if São Paulo fail to win the title in this game.