The Flamengo basketball team, recognized as one of Brazil's powerhouse sports institutions, is preparing for their last game of the NBB (Novo Basquete Brasil) 2024 season against Mogi on Sunday, December 29th. Currently sitting second on the league table, Flamengo is eager to close out the year strong, with the top spot within their sight.
Flamengo has had a commendable season so far, boasting 14 wins and only four losses across 18 games, which has propelled them to 32 points, just two points shy of league leaders Minas, who have accumulated 34 points. Mogi, on the other hand, is struggling at 16th place with just six wins and twelve losses, totaling 24 points. Only Caxias do Sul and Fortaleza trail behind them.
The upcoming game kickoff is set for 11 AM Brasília time, and it will take place at Maracanãzinho, Flamengo's home arena. Fans can catch the action live through various platforms including Fla TV, Sportv, the NBB's official YouTube channel, and the streaming service Basquetpass.
Both teams are desperate for victory, having faced setbacks in their previous matches. Flamengo had their winning momentum interrupted when they fell to São José with a score of 89 to 82, marking only their second loss out of the last five games. Meanwhile, Mogi is coming off a disappointing loss to Botafogo, who have now surpassed them in the standings, with Mogi losing by 97 to 85.
Reflecting on their last outing, Flamengo struggled to regain their rhythm against São José after a disappointing first half. Despite showing resilience and even taking the lead at one point during the final quarter, the team could not sustain the pressure, as São José capitalized on their shooting opportunities, leaving Flamengo frustrated and eager to improve.
While the basketball team gears up for their final match, notable changes are happening within other sections of the Flamengo club. José Boto has recently been appointed as the new technical director, aiming to boost professionalism across the club’s various departments. Boto, who previously made his mark at Shakhtar Donetsk, has been charged with significant responsibilities, including player acquisitions and coaching decisions.
Bato's appointment has stirred excitement among the fans and management alike. Luiz Eduardo Baptista, Flamengo’s new president, expressed confidence in Boto’s decision-making, stating he seeks to keep direct involvement minimal, allowing Boto to make autonomous choices. This move is seen as part of wider strategic changes intended to reshape Flamengo's operational approach。
The Flamengo community is also gathering at the Maracanã this week for the 20th edition of the "Jogo das Estrelas," which honors the late club legend Adílio. Andrade, one of Adílio’s contemporaries, expressed deep sadness over the passing of his friend, affirming the significant bond they shared on and off the court. Andrade reflected on their time together, highlighting how deeply the loss has affected him and the broader Flamengo family.
The final game provides Flamengo not just with the opportunity to capture win number 15 but also to rally the community and fans around the team as they enter the new year. With the playoffs on the horizon, each match grows increasingly significant within the NBB framework. The top 16 teams qualify for the postseason, where the competition heats up with best-of-five series.
Flamengo's track record this season has provided ample reasons for their fans to remain optimistic. The club's current form, bolstered by strong individual performances from key players, suggests they have the potential to make significant strides as the NBB moves toward its conclusion.
On the eve of 2025, Flamengo not only aims to recover from their recent defeat against São José but also to turn their aspirations for the top spot with Minas back to reality. The clash against Mogi promises to be electrifying, showcasing the determination and grit typical of Flamengo's rich sporting tradition as they continue their quest for basketball supremacy.