In a thrilling display of basketball prowess, Flamengo has emerged victorious in the Champions League of the Americas (BCLA), defeating Boca Juniors 83 to 57 in the final held on April 19, 2025, at Maracanãzinho. This triumph marks Flamengo's second consecutive title in the tournament, having previously won in the 2020/21 season.
The game was a showcase of dominance from the very start, with Flamengo taking control early on. The team, known as the "Orgulho da Nação" (Pride of the Nation), opened the match with an explosive 15-2 run, quickly establishing a lead that would set the tone for the rest of the night. By the end of the first quarter, Flamengo was ahead 30-13, having executed a well-rounded game plan that combined effective offense and a stifling defense.
Halftime saw Flamengo leading comfortably at 49-29. Despite Boca Juniors making adjustments and showing signs of life in the second half, the Brazilian side maintained their composure. The third quarter ended with Flamengo ahead 60-45, and the final period saw them pull away again, finishing strong with a 23-12 run to seal the championship.
Gui Deodato was the standout performer for Flamengo, leading the scoring with 16 points, while Alexey Borges, who was named the tournament's Most Valuable Player (MVP), contributed 15 points alongside 6 assists and 4 rebounds. Shaq Johnson also had a notable performance, adding 15 points, and Ruan Miranda came close to a double-double with 11 points and 9 rebounds. The collective effort of these players was pivotal in securing the title.
Flamengo's victory not only secures them the BCLA trophy but also grants them a spot in the FIBA Intercontinental Cup, where they will seek to add a third world title to their resume, having previously won the championship in 2014 and 2022. The upcoming tournament is set to take place in Singapore in the latter half of 2025.
This championship adds to Flamengo's rich basketball history, which includes the Liga das Américas title in 2014 and the South American championship in 1953, although the latter is not officially recognized by FIBA as part of the unified titles.
As Flamengo celebrated their victory, the atmosphere in Maracanãzinho was electric, with fans cheering on their team throughout the match. The support from the stands was palpable, and it fueled the players' determination to deliver a memorable performance.
In a day filled with excitement for Flamengo fans, the football team also played on the same day, taking on Vasco in the Brasileirão at 18h30. This double-header showcased the club's strength across both basketball and football, further solidifying their status as a powerhouse in Brazilian sports.
The match against Boca Juniors was the culmination of a fierce rivalry, as both teams had previously met three times in the group stage of the tournament. Flamengo had won two of those encounters, while Boca secured one victory. The previous matches saw Flamengo winning 70-69 in Rio de Janeiro and 96-61 in Panama, while Boca Juniors claimed a 96-71 victory in Buenos Aires.
Fans were able to catch the championship game through various broadcasting platforms, including SporTV, Courtside 1891, and the BCLA's official YouTube channel. Ticket prices for the final ranged from R$ 20 to R$ 300, allowing a wide array of supporters to witness the historic event live.
With this win, Flamengo not only adds another trophy to their cabinet but also continues to build on their legacy in Brazilian basketball. The team’s ability to maintain high performance under pressure and deliver when it matters most is a testament to their skill and determination.
As Flamengo prepares for their next challenge in the Intercontinental Cup, fans are left buzzing with excitement, eagerly anticipating what this talented roster will accomplish next. The journey to global recognition continues, and with a strong foundation and a passionate fanbase, Flamengo is poised to make waves on the international stage.
