RIO DE JANEIRO (Brazil) - Flamengo quickly managed to turn the page and left behind the defeat against Quimsa in the final of the Basketball Champions League Americas' first edition. Last November 10th, the "Mengao" began its journey towards the seventh NBB title, with a 102-68 victory against Minas. So far, they've won 13 games of the 15 he played in the National League, which allows them to have great rhythm for the continental tournament.

"Expectations are the best. We're working hard to reach the BCLA in the best possible way, since it's the most important competition of the continent. Whenever Flamengo participates in a tournament, the team gives its best, and this time will be no different. We're playing very well at the NBB, and we need to make the most of this moment. We're growing as a team and the results are a consequence of our daily hard work. I have no doubt that these things will help us a lot for the next Champions League," affirmed Olivinha, a symbol of the "Fla".

In spite of having lost the final against Quimsa 92-86, the team from Rio de Janeiro had a flawless campaign in the previous BCLA. It dominated Group C, with four wins and no losses, in a zone shared with Instituto de Córdoba and Valdivia, from Chile. In the quarter finals, it faced Fuerza Regia from Mexico, and it won 90-67 and 103-76. In the semi-finals, it ran into Instituto once again. Gustavo De Conti's team won 2-0 (63-54 and 66-64).

Flamengo, which is part of Group D together with Instituto of Argentina and Peñarol of Uruguay, maintains the same team that became the Americas' runner-up. Let us remember that for that decisive instance, it had brought reinforcements: Yago Mateus and Hettsheimeir, both players from the Brazilian national team, and Luciano "Chuzito" González, Argentine forward, former player of San Lorenzo.

Lastly, Olivinha highlights how important it is for him to defend the red-and-black jersey: "I'm proud to represent Flamengo, and if we’re talking about the continent's greatest club competition, I'm even prouder. I hope the team has a great tournament. From my position, I'll do everything I can to achieve the main goal: becoming the Americas' champions."

FIBA