Author: Monojit Mandal
The Novo Basquete Brasil (NBB) final came down to a thrilling tie when Sesi Franca recovered in Game 2 against São Paulo, winning 88-80. After São Paulo’s victory in the opening game at Pedroco, the series is currently tied at 1-1, increasing the competition for the coveted title of NBB champion. Game three promises to be a fascinating clash that basketball fans won’t want to miss, with both teams demonstrating their skills on the court.
São Paulo 80 – 88 Franca
Despite the absence of Lucas Dias due to appendicitis, Sesi Franca showed incredible determination, refusing to be discouraged by the setback. Franca took the lead at the start of the game with a significant nine-point advantage and closed out the first quarter with a score of 19-15. However, São Paulo produced a persistent comeback in the following quarter, taking advantage of the depth of their bench to regain control of the game.
Franca’s performance improved in the second half, with a dominant 15-point lead, led by Lucas Mariano’s excellent performance. São Paulo, on the other hand, made a valiant comeback, reducing the score to one basket. However, a crucial three-pointer from Georginho gave Franca the breath they needed to close out the game.
Georginho de Paula was the star of the match, dominating both sides of the court with an incredible performance. He finished the game with an incredible efficiency rating of 28, after recording 17 points, 17 rebounds and seven assists in a well-deserved double-double. Meanwhile, Lucas Mariano was Franca’s top scorer with 28 points. Malcolm Miller, from São Paulo, led his team in scoring with 21 points.
Georginho highlighted his happiness with the team’s performance, saying: “We defended spectacularly, especially in the second half, and that’s what we needed. When the energy is high, the balls start to fall. Today Luco [Mariano] was really inspired. Everyone worked hard to get rebounds. I was also lucky enough to make a crucial shot towards the end of the game.“
The stage is already set for the decisive third game of the NBB final, which will pit Franca against São Paulo at the Morumbi Gymnasium. The next game, scheduled for 3 p.m. (Brasília time) on June 3, promises to be another fascinating clash between these two strong teams fighting for NBB gold. Basketball fans are eagerly awaiting the outcome of this fierce series, with the two teams competing for supremacy on the court.
All eyes are on the Morumbi Gymnasium, where the decisive match will be played. Both Franca and São Paulo are motivated to beat each other in what looks set to be an exciting contest. Basketball fans await another fierce clash between these two basketball powerhouses in their quest to dominate the NBB, as they await the conclusion of this highly contested series.