Bauru vs. Flamengo
RIO DE JANEIRO (Interstat) — A surging Bauru squad will look to continue its climb up the Brazilian NBB standings when it visits the slumping league powerhouse Flamengo at HSBC Arena on Saturday.
The matchup pits teams on opposite trajectories. Bauru (11-11) enters riding a three-game winning streak, including a 90-70 road victory over Vasco da Gama on Monday. Flamengo (22-10), despite its strong overall record, has lost four of its last five games across all competitions, most recently falling 93-87 in overtime at Ulbra.
The game will feature a key duel at point guard. Bauru is led by dynamic American Dontrell Brite, who is averaging 22.7 points over his last three contests. He scored 23 points in Monday’s win. Flamengo will counter with its depth and interior presence, notably center Wesley Ferreira, who had 15 points and eight rebounds in the loss to Ulbra.
In their previous meeting this season, Flamengo dominated Bauru 102-86 on Oct. 18. However, Bauru’s current form suggests a more competitive rematch. Beyond Brite, Bauru has received consistent production from Jose Materan and Germerson Barbosa. Flamengo will rely on Gui Deodato and Shaquille Johnson to complement Ferreira and help snap the team’s recent skid.
A Flamengo victory would solidify its position near the top of the table, while a Bauru win would bring the team to .500 and demonstrate its potential as a playoff contender. Tipoff is set for Saturday night in Rio de Janeiro.