The Novo Basquete Brasil (NBB) served up a thriller on June 3, 2026, as Vivo Franca snatched a dramatic 76–75 victory over E.c. Pinheiros Sao Paolo on the road. The one-point margin reflected a game that swung back and forth until the final buzzer, with Franca proving clutch in the closing seconds to escape Sao Paolo with the win.

Match Overview

Playing at Pinheiros' home arena, both teams entered the contest with contrasting ambitions. Franca, a perennial NBB powerhouse, aimed to solidify its top-four standing, while Pinheiros looked to build momentum for a playoff push. From the opening tip, the intensity was palpable. Pinheiros came out aggressive, using a fast-paced offense to build an early lead, but Franca's veteran composure kept them within striking distance.

The first half ended with Pinheiros holding a slim 42–39 advantage, thanks to sharp shooting from beyond the arc. However, Franca tightened its defense in the third quarter, forcing turnovers and converting them into easy transition buckets. By the end of the third, Franca had taken a 60–58 lead, setting the stage for a tense final period.

Key Moments

• Fourth-quarter surge: Pinheiros regained the lead with five minutes left, going up 73–71 on a driving layup. The crowd erupted, sensing an upset.
• Franca's response: Vivo Franca called a timeout and drew up a play that resulted in a three-pointer from their sharpshooter, putting them ahead 74–73 with under two minutes to play.
• Final sequence: After a Pinheiros free throw tied the game at 75–75, Franca held for the last shot. A pick-and-roll produced a mid-range jumper that found the net with 2.1 seconds remaining. Pinheiros' desperation heave at the buzzer missed, sealing the 76–75 final.

Standout Players

For Franca, veteran guard Lucas Dias led the way with 22 points and 8 rebounds, including the game-winning basket. His leadership in crunch time was instrumental. Pinheiros was powered by Davi Rossetto, who poured in 25 points and dished 5 assists, but his efforts ultimately fell short.

Season Impact

The victory boosted Franca's record to 18–6, keeping them in the hunt for the NBB regular-season title. Pinheiros dropped to 12–12, still in the playoff picture but needing to string together wins to avoid the play-in round. The head-to-head result also gives Franca a potential tiebreaker advantage should the two teams meet again in the postseason.

For Franca, the ability to win a tight road game against a motivated opponent underscores their championship pedigree. Pinheiros, meanwhile, will rue a few missed free throws and defensive lapses that allowed Franca to escape. With the NBB season entering its final stretch, every game carries increased weight.