São Paulo had a strong debut, dominates the University of Concepción

BUENOS AIRES (Argentina) - São Paulo (1-0) shined in their Group B debut in the Basketball Champions League Americas (BCLA), as they defeated Universidad de Concepción (0-2) 94-47, at Obras Sanitarias, in Buenos Aires.

The Brazilian team started strong with a 15-2 run in the first five minutes. From then, they did not take their foot off the gas and gradually increased the advantage against an opponent who seemed to have left everything on the first day against Quimsa.

By half São Paulo was up 51-26 and at the end of the third the margin stretched to 41 points (79-38). So the last quarter was a more of a formality, and yet Claudio Mortari's team continued without slowing down.

Jefferson Andrade had a double-double with 17 points and 11 rebounds. Renan Lenz added 16 points. Lucas Mariano and Shamell Stallworth also stood out with 14 points each, and center Gerson Santo also had a double-double of 13 points and 11 rebounds.

"We played collectively and we were able to rotate a lot, so we're good. The game helped us to adapt," Jefferson said.

For University, which shot 28 percent from the field (21 of 74), guard Durrell Summers led with 18 points. The Venezuelan center Carlos Milano, followed with 10 points and 10 rebounds.

São Paulo should have a competitive duel on Tuesday when they face Quimsa.

"We know it is going to be a strong game against a team that defends hard and plays collectively, but we are ready. This team is armed to win everything, so the objective is to be in the final," added Jefferson, who went 4-6 from the three-point line.

FIBA