Flamengo dominated Paisas in South American League debut

Flamengo got off to a strong start in their South American Basketball League campaign. On Friday evening (23rd), Rubro-Negro defeated Paisas (COL) 84-53 at Maracanãzinho in the opening match of Group D. With a consistent performance on both ends of the floor, Flamengo took control of the game in the first quarter, extended their lead after the break and confirmed the victory with ease. Yago, with 13 points, was the team's leading scorer, followed by Ruan with 12 points. Freeman and Montero each contributed 10 points.

Game Highlights

Yago – 13 points;

Ruan – 12 points;

Freeman – 10 points;

Montero – 10 points.

First Quarter

Paisas opened the scoring, but Ruan responded quickly with a move in the paint to score Flamengo's first two points. Throughout the period, both teams traded baskets in an evenly contested affair. Yago and Ruan stood out for Rubro-Negro. In the final minutes, Flamengo adjusted their defense and opened up a lead, closing the first quarter at 31-22.

Second Quarter

In the second period, Flamengo maintained control and extended their lead on the scoreboard. One of the highlights was the debut of American Sammie Freeman, who wore the Rubro-Negro jersey for the first time in an official match. With solid offensive movement, Flamengo continued to find gaps in the Colombian defense, and Djalo converted a three-pointer to increase the advantage. Playing confidently, Mengão went into halftime with a 53-33 lead.

Third Quarter

After the break, Flamengo maintained their intensity and made it difficult for Paisas' offensive plays. Yago hit another three-pointer and continued to excel in the offense, reaching double figures. The period was also marked by intensity and quick transitions for both teams between defense and offense. More efficient, Rubro-Negro extended their lead further and closed the third quarter at 73-44.

Fourth Quarter

With a commanding lead, Flamengo stayed focused and continued to show consistent performance on both sides of the floor. In a nice play, Negrete assisted DG for a basket to further extend Rubro-Negro's lead. In the final minutes, Mengão managed the lead they had built throughout the match and confirmed the 84-53 victory, securing a positive start in the South American Basketball League.

Next Match

Rubro-Negro returns to the court on Saturday (24th) to face Oberá at 20:10 at Maracanãzinho in the second round of Group D of the South American Basketball League.

Starting Lineup

Yago, Negrete, Montero, Djalo and Ruan.

Head Coach: Demétrius Ferracciú.