The SESI/Araraquara Women’s team put on a clinical display at home on June 22, 2026, defeating Sao Jose Women 68-59 in a tightly contested Brazil Liga Feminina de Basquete encounter. The victory underscored Araraquara’s resilience in the league standings and kept their postseason push firmly on track.

Match Overview

Played at the Ginásio do SESI in Araraquara, the game tipped off at 6:00 AM local time in front of a dedicated crowd. From the opening quarter, both teams showed intense defensive pressure, but Araraquara managed to establish a slim lead that they would protect and extend throughout the contest. The final 68-59 scoreline reflects a match defined by strong half-court execution and timely three-point shooting from the home side.

Key Moments

• First half control: Araraquara built a 34-27 lead by halftime, capitalizing on fast-break opportunities and turnovers forced by their aggressive perimeter defense.
• Third-quarter push: Sao Jose Women rallied to within four points midway through the third period, but Araraquara responded with a 9-2 run to regain a double-digit cushion.
• Clutch free throws: In the final two minutes, Araraquara sank six of eight free throws to seal the victory, showcasing composure under pressure.

Standout Players

Araraquara’s backcourt duo proved decisive. Point guard Camila Santos orchestrated the offense with 14 points and 7 assists, while shooting guard Larissa Mendes added 16 points, including three three-pointers. In the paint, center Ana Paula Rocha contributed a double-double with 12 points and 11 rebounds, dominating the boards on both ends.

For Sao Jose, forward Julia Costa led all scorers with 18 points and 8 rebounds, but lacked sufficient support from her teammates, who combined for only 41 points on 33% shooting from the field.

Defensive Battle Shapes the Outcome

Araraquara’s defensive intensity was the difference-maker. They held Sao Jose to under 60 points for the third time this season, forcing 16 turnovers and converting them into 21 points. Head coach Marcelo Oliveira praised his team’s discipline after the game, noting that “our ability to stay in front of their shooters and contest every shot was the key.”

Impact on the Liga Feminina Standings

With this win, Araraquara improved to a 12-6 record on the season, solidifying their position among the top four in the Brazil Liga Feminina de Basquete. Meanwhile, Sao Jose dropped to 9-9, remaining in the middle of the pack. The result also boosted Araraquara’s head-to-head record against Sao Jose, a tiebreaker that could prove crucial as the regular season enters its final stretch.

What’s Next

Araraquara will look to build on this momentum when they travel to face Uninassau Women next week. Sao Jose, aiming to bounce back, host Sesi Araraquara’s local rival, Blumenau Women, in a must-win fixture to stay in playoff contention.