Coritiba/Thalia LDB U22 vs Fluminense U22 – Fluminense Dominates in Brazil LDB U22 Showdown

On July 21, 2026, the Brazilian development league (LDB U22) featured a compelling matchup between Coritiba/Thalia LDB U22 and Fluminense U22. Played at the Ginásio do Coritiba in Curitiba, the game ended in a comprehensive 98–68 victory for Fluminense, who showcased their superior offensive firepower and defensive intensity. The result reinforces Fluminense’s position as one of the top contenders in the LDB U22 this season.

Match Overview

From the outset, Fluminense U22 dictated the pace. Their backcourt trio of João Pedro, Lucas Guedes, and Matheus Silva combined for 52 points, while the team’s full-court press forced 19 Coritiba turnovers. Fluminense shot an efficient 54% from the field and 42% from three-point range, compared to Coritiba’s 38% overall shooting. The first half ended 52–32 in favor of the visitors, and the lead never dipped below 20 points in the second half.

Coritiba/Thalia LDB U22, while competitive in spurts, lacked the consistency to mount a serious comeback. Their leading scorer, forward Rafael Oliveira, tallied 18 points and 8 rebounds, but received little support from the supporting cast. The home team’s lack of depth was exposed as Fluminense’s bench contributed 34 points.

Key Moments

• Second-quarter surge: Fluminense opened the second quarter with a 15–2 run, turning a 28–20 lead into a 43–22 advantage. The run was fueled by three consecutive three-pointers from João Pedro.
• Coritiba’s lone rally: Down by 28 points late in the third quarter, Coritiba briefly cut the deficit to 20 (76–56) with a 10–2 spurt, but Fluminense quickly restored order with a timeout and an 8–0 response.
• Fluminense’s transition game: The visitors scored 28 fast-break points, frequently capitalizing on Coritiba’s missed shots and turnovers.

Standout Players

João Pedro (Fluminense U22): The guard poured in 24 points (9/15 shooting, 4/7 from three), along with 6 assists and 3 steals. His leadership on the court was instrumental in Fluminense’s rhythm.

Matheus Silva (Fluminense U22): Provided a spark off the bench with 16 points, 5 rebounds, and 4 assists. His energy on both ends kept Coritiba’s defense scrambling.

Rafael Oliveira (Coritiba/Thalia LDB U22): Despite the loss, Oliveira showed his versatility with 18 points, 8 rebounds, and 2 blocks. He was the only Coritiba player to consistently win his individual matchups.

LDB U22 Season Impact

The LDB U22 (Liga de Desenvolvimento de Basquete) is Brazil’s premier under-22 competition, serving as a crucial proving ground for future NBB stars. Fluminense’s win improves their record to 12–3, placing them firmly in the top four of the league standings. Coritiba/Thalia, meanwhile, falls to 6–9, sitting mid-table and needing a strong finish to secure a playoff berth.

The result also underscores Fluminense’s championship pedigree. Having won the LDB title twice in the last five years, their young core appears ready to challenge for another trophy. Coritiba, a newer entrant to the league, will need to regroup and focus on player development as the season progresses.