With the arrival of new coach Sergio Hernández, the Flamengo basketball team kickstarted their NBB season with a decisive victory over Pato Basquete on February 28, 2025. The match, held at the Tijuca Tênis Clube, showcased Flamengo's capabilities, ending with a score of 91-81.
The victory was especially significant for Hernández, who took the reins after the departure of former coach Gustavo de Conti. It marked the beginning of what fans hope will be a successful era for the team. With this latest win, Flamengo improved their record to 19 wins and 5 losses, placing them second in the NBB standings, just behind Minas, who currently have the same number of victories but with one less defeat.
Flamengo demonstrated strength and strategy throughout the game. They quickly established dominance, initially leading 19-12 by the end of the first quarter. Maintaining their momentum, they went to halftime with a comfortable lead of 46-34. The performance of players like Shaq Johnson, who scored 14 points, and Alexey Borges, who contributed significantly with 11 assists, pushed the team forward.
The game was not without its challenges, as Pato Basquete, who currently sits at 15th place, is struggling this season. Despite their position, Pato did not back down, and the match was intensely competitive, even if Flamengo kept the upper hand. Wrighten was the standout player for Pato, scoring 21 points but it was not enough against the persistent Flamengo.
Reflecting on the game, player Franco Balbi remarked, "We always work to give our best and do everything possible on the court. Today we managed to dominate the game throughout, since the beginning of the first quarter. We oscillated a bit there at the end, but we always had control." This captures the collective effort and determination displayed by Flamengo, as they worked to adapt to their new coach's strategies.
Looking at the game's statistics, the first quarter saw Pato outdo Flamengo on offensive rebounds but failing to capitalize on those opportunities. Flamengo adjusted quickly, and with effective shooting, they widened their lead. They showcased versatility, moving well on the court and displaying solid teamwork, which was highlighted by their sharp three-point shooting.
Flamengo went on to maintain their lead, winning the third quarter 25-22, though they faced some pressure from Pato, who attempted to mount a comeback. The last quarter witnessed Pato turning up the heat, winning it 25-20, but their efforts fell short of leveling the score.
Following this important win, Flamengo’s next game is set for Monday, March 3, against União Corinthians, and fans eagerly anticipate how the team will progress under Hernández's leadership. This match is also expected to be part of the festive atmosphere of Carnival.
Across the league, other notable games on the same day included Minas overcoming Fortaleza with a score of 92-86 and Vasco securing victory over Mogi with 104-82, which added to the competitive dynamics of the NBB standings. These results maintain Minas at the top of the leaderboard with 20 wins, closely shadowed by Flamengo.
The Flamengo fans are hopeful for what lies ahead as they continue to make gains on the court. The merging of leadership and strategy with skilled players gives them solid footing, and the excitement surrounding the new coaching era is palpable. With the right strategy and teamwork, there’s optimism for greater achievements this season.