BRA - Universo march on

BRASILIA (Campeonato Nacional) – Universo extended their lead at the top of the Campeonato Nacional after a 90-86 victory over title rivals Franca.

Alex, who was 10 of 11 overall - including four of five from outside the arc - top scored for Universo with 23 points, while Luis grabbed an impressive nine rebounds.

Helinho top-scored with 21 for Franca, while Murilo weighed in with 12 points and eight rebounds.

Universo started brightest and, after winning the first quarter 29-27, secured a narrow 49-48 advantage at half-time.

The leaders then extended their advantage with a 20-17 win in the third-quarter, before securing the victory after drawing the nervy final period 21-21.

Alex said: “We knew that Franca were a great team. This victory is very important because it allows us to continue on the top of the table and remain unbeaten.”

But second-placed Rio Claro’s title aspirations suffered a setback after they were beaten 81-59 by Uberlandia.

Helio, who was eight of 13 overall, top scored for the winners with 20, while Brasilia weighed in with 12 points and 10 rebounds.

Helio said: “It was a good match, despite the final difference. We were very forceful and we made few errors.

“The main reason for the victory was the team play. All the team played well and when that happens, Uberlandia are very strong."

And Felipe, who was nine from 16 - including six of nine from two-point range - top scored for Rio Claro with 15 points as they slipped to their first defeat of the campaign.

Leandrinho and Renato both scored 16 points as high-flying Paulistano secured a 93-65 win over Iguacu.

Renato was also the top rebounder after grabbing seven, while Daniel top scored with 11 points for Iguacu.

Saldanha Da Gama also recorded a comfortable 72-50 victory win over Londrina.

Sandro Varejao top scored with 14 points for the winners, while Joao Paulo poured in 10 for Londrina.

FIBA