Pinheiros U22 upset Franca U22 85-80 in a thrilling Brazil LDB U22 matchup on September 16, 2026, overturning an early deficit with a dominant third quarter and clutch fourth-quarter execution. The win is a significant one for Pinheiros, who handed one of the league's traditional powerhouses a rare defeat in a game that showcased the best of Brazil's young talent.

Match Overview

Franca came in as favourites and looked the part early, leading 24-22 after the first quarter and 44-42 at halftime. But Pinheiros seized control in the third, outscoring Franca 22-18 to take a 65-60 lead into the final period. Franca fought back to tie the game at 78-78 with two minutes left, but Pinheiros stayed composed, hitting key shots and free throws down the stretch to seal the five-point win.

• Final score: Franca U22 80, Pinheiros U22 85
• Competition: Brazil LDB U22
• Date: September 16, 2026
• Top scorer: Lucas Almeida (Pinheiros) — 26 points

Quarter-by-Quarter Breakdown

Franca started fast, using their size inside to score early baskets. Their half-court offence was efficient, and they led 24-22 after ten minutes. The second quarter was a shootout. Pinheiros' guards began attacking the rim with purpose, while Franca answered with timely three-pointers. The teams traded leads seven times in the period, but Franca edged it 20-19 to take a 44-42 halftime lead.

The third quarter changed the game. Pinheiros switched to a smaller, quicker lineup that stretched Franca's defence. Lucas Almeida caught fire, scoring 12 points in the period, including three three-pointers. Pinheiros outscored Franca 22-18 and took a 65-60 lead into the fourth. Franca rallied in the final frame, tying the game at 78-78 on a driving layup from Gabriel Souza. But Pinheiros responded with a tough contested jumper from Rafael Costa and then converted six straight free throws to ice it.

Key Moments

The decisive sequence came in the final 90 seconds. With the score tied at 78-78, Pinheiros ran a high pick-and-roll that forced a switch. Almeida attacked the big man, drew help defence, and kicked out to Costa for an open three. Costa buried it. On the next possession, Franca missed a contested three, and Pinheiros secured the rebound. Two free throws later, the lead was five, and Franca could not recover.

Tactical Story

Pinheiros won this game with pace and spacing. They pushed the ball at every opportunity and attacked Franca's big men in space. Defensively, they dared Franca to shoot from the perimeter, packing the paint and forcing contested jumpers. Franca shot just 6-of-24 from three-point range, well below their season average. Offensively, Pinheiros moved the ball beautifully, finishing with 20 assists. Their small-ball lineup in the third quarter was the tactical masterstroke of the game.

Standout Players

Lucas Almeida was sensational for Pinheiros, scoring 26 points on 9-of-16 shooting, including 5-of-9 from beyond the arc. He also added 5 assists and 3 steals. Rafael Costa contributed 19 points and 7 assists, controlling the tempo and hitting the biggest shot of the game. Forward Matheus Silva added 14 points and 10 rebounds, holding his own against Franca's bigger frontcourt. For Franca U22, Gabriel Souza led the way with 22 points and 8 rebounds, while Matheus Silva chipped in 18 points, but the team's poor three-point shooting and 15 turnovers proved costly.

What the Result Means

This is a signature win for Pinheiros U22 in the Brazil LDB U22 competition. It proves they can compete with the top teams and win in clutch moments. For Franca U22, the loss is a wake-up call. They have the talent to contend for a title, but they must improve their perimeter shooting and take care of the ball. The LDB U22 season is long, and both teams will learn from this one — but Pinheiros will savour the upset for a while.