Preview: Botafogo Faces Caxias Do Sul in NBB Clash

CAXIAS DO SUL, Brazil (Interstat) — Two teams heading in opposite directions meet Sunday when Caxias Do Sul hosts Botafogo in a Brazilian Novo Basquete Brasil (NBB) matchup at Ginásio Vasco da Gama.

The home side, Caxias Do Sul (14-17), looks to solidify its positioning for the postseason, while struggling Botafogo (7-19) seeks an elusive road victory to salvage its campaign. The teams last met on Dec. 8, 2025, with Caxias Do Sul securing an 80-75 road win.

Caxias Do Sul enters having split its last four games, most recently falling 81-75 at Minas on Thursday. Guard Felipe Vezaro has been a consistent catalyst, averaging 14.8 points, 4.3 rebounds and 4.3 assists over his last six outings. He posted 17 points, six rebounds and six assists in the loss to Minas.

Botafogo is reeling from a 93-62 home defeat to Pinheiros on Monday, its ninth loss in 11 games. Point guard Matheus Brito remains a bright spot, nearly averaging a double-double over his last four games with 14.5 points and 7.0 assists per contest. He recorded 23 points and nine assists in a narrow road win over Ulbra on March 4.

Caxias Do Sul holds a clear advantage in the standings and recent form. Botafogo’s defense, which allowed 93 points in its last outing, will be tested by a balanced Caxias Do Sul attack. The home team also boasts a stronger recent record at Ginásio Vasco da Gama, having won three of its last five there.

For Botafogo, containing Vezaro and finding consistent scoring support for Brito will be critical. The visiting side has lost seven of its last eight road games.

Tip-off is scheduled for Sunday, March 22, in Caxias do Sul.