SAO PAULO (Interstat) — A pivotal clash in the Brazilian Novo Basquete Brasil (NBB) playoff race is set for Tuesday when the surging Minas (26-10) visit the league-leading Pinheiros (25-6) at Ginasio Poliesportivo Henrique Villaboim.

The matchup features two of the league’s top teams, with Pinheiros boasting the NBB’s best record and Minas riding a three-game winning streak. The home team has been dominant, winning 10 of its last 11 contests, with the sole blemish a narrow 80-75 road loss to Flamengo on March 19. Pinheiros is coming off a commanding 81-63 victory at Vasco da Gama on Saturday.

Minas, meanwhile, has found its form after a mid-March skid, securing wins over Corinthians and Caxias Do Sul following two losses to rival Franca. They last played on March 19, defeating Caxias Do Sul 81-75 behind 20 points from guard Jordan Williams and a strong all-around performance from center Winicius Silva Braga.

Braga, averaging 12 points and 6.2 rebounds over his last five games, will be a key figure for the visitors. He faces a tough assignment against a deep Pinheiros frontcourt.

The home team is led by dynamic guard David Sloan, who has been a consistent force. Sloan is averaging 16.3 points and 4.3 assists over his last six outings, including a 20-point, 6-rebound, 4-assist performance in a win over Mogi das Cruzes on March 5 and a 13-point, 10-assist double-double against Botafogo on March 16.

This contest represents a major test for both sides as the regular season enters its final stretch. Pinheiros will look to defend its home court and solidify its hold on first place, while Minas aims to prove it can topple the league’s elite on the road and improve its postseason positioning. Tipoff is scheduled for Tuesday night in Sao Paulo.