Pato edged Botafogo 89-88 in a tense Novo Basquete Brasil matchup on October 25, 2026, escaping with the win after a final defensive stand in the last seconds. The one-point result gave Pato a valuable home victory and left Botafogo ruing a handful of missed opportunities at the free-throw line.

Match overview

The game was fast, guard-driven and played at a high tempo from the opening tip. Pato led 24-22 after the first quarter, 47-44 at halftime and 68-67 after three, but neither team could build a comfortable cushion. Botafogo’s pressure defense created turnovers, while Pato’s inside scoring and offensive rebounding kept the hosts balanced.

Both teams shot the ball well enough to keep the scoreboard moving, but the contest was decided by small details: loose balls, late rotations and free throws. Pato finished with a slight edge on the boards, and that margin helped them survive a Botafogo team that refused to go away.

Key moments

With just over two minutes remaining, Botafogo took an 84-83 lead on a transition dunk. Pato responded with a three-pointer from the right wing, then added a fast-break layup for an 88-84 advantage. Botafogo cut the gap to 88-86 with two free throws, and Pato made one of two at the line to lead 89-86. Botafogo scored a quick basket inside before Pato forced a contested final shot that rimmed out as time expired.

Tactical story

Pato’s half-court patience was important against Botafogo’s switching defense. The hosts used ball screens to create mismatches and attacked the offensive glass when Botafogo over-helped. Defensively, Pato mixed man-to-man and zone looks in the fourth quarter, slowing Botafogo’s rhythm just enough in the final possessions.

Botafogo’s guards applied pressure throughout and forced Pato into several rushed decisions, but the visitors were unable to convert enough of their late chances. Their transition attack was effective for long stretches, yet Pato’s ability to score in the paint kept the home side in control when the pace slowed.

Standout performers

Pato’s combo guard led all scorers with 25 points and six assists, hitting the key three in the closing stretch. The power forward added 17 points and 10 rebounds, while the bench provided timely minutes on defense. Botafogo’s shooting guard finished with 24 points, and the point guard added 15 points and nine assists in a strong all-around performance.

NBB impact

The result strengthens Pato’s position in the early Novo Basquete Brasil standings and gives them confidence in close games. Botafogo leave with a narrow defeat but showed enough offensive firepower to remain a dangerous opponent. In a league where home wins are essential, Pato’s ability to protect their floor could prove important later in the season.

• Final score: Pato 89-88 Botafogo
• Quarter scores: 24-22, 47-44, 68-67, 89-88
• Clutch sequence: Pato’s 5-0 run in the final two minutes