Atlanteans Shine on the Global Stage at SULA 2K25 in Brazil
Santa Rita do Sapucaí, Brazil – In a week filled with high-level hoops, passionate fans, and international flair, Atlantis University made its mark on the global basketball scene. Four standout Atlanteans suited up for the New South Athletic Conference (NSAC) Under-21 All-Star team, which went on to win the SULA 2K25 Basketball Tournament in dominating fashion.
Representing Atlantis University on the NSAC roster were Santi Insaurralde, Ethan Barnes, Folayemi Salako, and Jose Rosario. Frankie Hernandez joined the coaching staff as Assistant Coach. The tournament, hosted in the scenic Brazilian tech hub of Santa Rita do Sapucaí, featured top-tier teams from across South America. Despite falling in an early exhibition match to Mogi das Cruzes (109-79), the NSAC All-Stars rebounded in commanding fashion, winning every official tournament game, including a decisive 70-59 championship victory over CETAF.
MVP Honors for Insaurralde
Atlantis point guard Santi Insaurralde was a force from start to finish, drawing attention from international scouts and professional teams. He capped off his stellar week by earning both the MVP and the sub-21 Selection Honor, an undeniable recognition of his leadership, shot-making, and defensive grit.
Salako Electrifies the Crowd
Folayemi Salako turned heads with his athleticism and energy. His highlight-reel dunks and hustle plays lit up the arena and brought the crowd to their feet throughout the week. Salako's explosiveness on both ends made him one of the tournament's most entertaining players.
Steady Play from Barnes and Rosario
Ethan Barnes and Jose Rosario brought consistency and control to the All-Star lineup. Barnes provided toughness and timely scoring,
while Rosario anchored the defense and made smart decisions in the half-court. Their unselfish play was key to the team's chemistry and success.
Hernandez Adds Coaching Firepower
Assistant Coach Frankie Hernandez added strategy and energy from the sidelines, supporting Head Coach Vando Becheli, who coached the team in his home country of Brazil. The duo helped guide the NSAC squad through a flawless tournament run after the exhibition hiccup.
Final Game Recap: NSAC 70, CETAF 59
In the championship showdown against CETAF, the NSAC team found itself trailing 38-35 at the half, only the second time they'd been behind all tournament. But a fierce defensive effort in the second half flipped the script, holding CETAF to just 21 points and sealing the title.
"The guys played like DAWGS!" said Head Coach Vando Becheli.
"These young men sacrificed to get there and compete, and they did so with poise and honor," said NSAC Commissioner Mike Davis. "I'm proud of every one of them."
Dominant Tournament Run
Exhibition: NSAC 79, Mogi das Cruzes 109 (L)
Game 1: NSAC 67, Sao Miguel Guardians 50 (W)
Game 2: NSAC 73, Sociedade Esportiva King's 42 (W)
Game 3: NSAC 101, Overtime Friends 48 (W)
Semifinal: NSAC 60, CETAF 48 (W)
Final: NSAC 70, CETAF 59 (W)
The SULA 2K25 tournament wasn't just a win on the scoreboard, it was a spotlight moment for Atlantis University and the NSAC conference. With professional-caliber broadcasting, a passionate Brazilian fanbase, and elite competition, the event delivered on every front. Atlantis University celebrates the accomplishments of our athletes and staff, who showed the world what it means to wear the Atlanteans and the NSAC jerseys with pride.
