Preview: Pato Basquete at UNICEUB in NBB Clash

BRASÍLIA, Brazil (Interstat) — A stark contrast in fortunes will be on display Tuesday when the surging UNICEUB hosts struggling Pato Basquete in a Brazilian Novo Basquete Brasil (NBB) matchup at Ginásio da ASCEB.

UNICEUB (12-4) enters the contest as one of the league’s top teams, having won eight of its last 10 games. Pato Basquete (5-12), meanwhile, seeks consistency after snapping a two-game skid with a decisive 82-67 victory over Osasco Basquete on Saturday.

The home team will rely heavily on forward Bruno Cardoso, who is coming off a dominant 19-point, 15-rebound performance in a road win over Mogi das Cruzes on Dec. 16. Cardoso has been a double-double threat, averaging 11.4 points and 8.0 rebounds over his last five contests. His interior battle with Pato’s Joao Victor Fidelis Moda will be pivotal.

Moda, a center, is the engine for the visitors. He is averaging 12.8 points, 6.6 rebounds and 3.3 assists over his last four games, including a well-rounded 15-point, 5-rebound, 6-assist effort in Saturday’s win. Support from guards Raekwon Horton and Grigor Batista Vieira, who combined for 32 points against Osasco, will be essential.

UNICEUB’s recent form, despite road losses to Corinthians and Sao Jose earlier in December, showcases a resilient squad. Their 84-81 win over Paraiba on Dec. 6 and a 105-90 offensive outburst against Cearense highlight their potency.

Pato’s season has been defined by streaks, both positive and negative. Following a three-game win streak in early December, they dropped two straight before the Osasco victory. Their road record remains a concern as they travel to the capital.

The teams have not met this season. UNICEUB will look to protect its home court and solidify its standing, while Pato Basquete aims to build momentum and spring an upset to close out 2025.

Tip-off is scheduled for Tuesday, Dec. 23.