Limeira 78 – 83 F.R Avare
Brazil São Paulo Cup – 16 May 2026

In a tightly contested fixture of the Brazil São Paulo Cup, F.R Avare edged out Limeira on the road, 83–78, to claim a crucial victory that bolsters their campaign in the regional competition. The game featured six lead changes and was not decided until the final minute, where Avare’s composure from the free‑throw line proved the difference.

Match Summary

Both teams traded baskets throughout the first half, with Limeira relying on their dynamic backcourt to keep pace. Avare, however, used a 10‑2 run in the closing stages of the third quarter to seize control. Limeira fought back to tie the score at 74‑apiece with three minutes remaining, but a critical turnover and a subsequent three‑point play from Avare’s power forward turned the tide. Avare converted five of six free throws in the last 45 seconds to seal the deal.

Players Who Made the Difference

• F.R Avare’s guard duo combined for 41 points. The starting shooting guard poured in a game‑high 23 points, including three timely triples, while the point guard dished out 9 assists and hit the go‑ahead jumper with 1:12 left.
• Limeira’s big man had a strong outing with 18 points and 11 rebounds, consistently drawing double‑teams. However, he was forced into tough shots late in the game as Avare’s defensive rotations tightened.
• Bench production tilted in Avare’s favour: their reserves contributed 22 points compared to Limeira’s 12, providing fresh legs and crucial scoring spurts.

Tactical Battle

The game was a chess match between two well‑coached sides. Limeira tried to exploit mismatches in the post, but Avare’s switching defense neutralized that threat in the second half. Conversely, Avare’s pick‑and‑roll offense created open looks for their shooters, and they shot 42% from beyond the arc – a significant factor in the final outcome.

Implications for the São Paulo Cup

The win lifts F.R Avare into the top half of the group standings, keeping them in strong contention for a knockout‑stage berth. For Limeira, the narrow loss stings, yet it also shows they can compete with the tournament’s better sides. With the São Paulo Cup known for its unpredictability, this result adds another layer of intrigue to an already competitive field.

Both teams will return to action within the week, with Limeira hoping to bounce back and Avare aiming to build on this gritty road success.