Preview: Paraiba Looks to Avenge Overtime Loss Against Sao Jose in NBB Clash

SAO JOSE DOS PINHAIS, Brazil (Interstat) — A tight NBB playoff race intensifies Friday when Sao Jose (12-8) hosts Paraiba (9-10) at Ginásio Lineu de Moura.

The matchup is a quick turnaround rematch of a thrilling overtime contest from November, which Sao Jose won 87-85 on Paraiba’s home floor. That result adds a layer of urgency for the visiting Paraiba, who sit just outside the postseason picture and need to stack wins in a crowded middle of the standings.

Sao Jose enters with the superior record but is looking to rebound from a 89-80 road loss to Botafogo on Jan. 21. In that game, guard Guilherme Thailan Lessa provided an offensive spark with 17 points in just 20 minutes, while forwards Malcolm Miller and Douglas Silva combined for 25 points, 11 rebounds and 6 assists. The team has been strong at home this season, with recent victories over Paulistano and Cruzeiro in São José dos Pinhais.

Paraiba, however, brings momentum from a hard-fought 71-66 road win at Cearense on Jan. 20. Center Joao Almeida dominated that contest, posting a double-double with 18 points and 12 rebounds. Power forward Gerson Santo added 12 points and 7 boards. The victory showcased Paraiba’s ability to grind out low-scoring, defensive battles, a contrast to their earlier overtime shootout with Sao Jose.

The visitors have been inconsistent but dangerous, as evidenced by a narrow home win over powerhouse Flamengo (89-88) in early January. Their success likely hinges on containing Sao Jose’s balanced attack and winning the interior battle, where Almeida will be a central figure.

For Sao Jose, protecting home court is paramount as they navigate a difficult upcoming schedule that features road games at Vasco da Gama and Flamengo next week. A win would solidify their position in the upper tier of the league.

Friday’s contest tips off at 8 p.m. local time (6 p.m. EST).