Eurobasket Daily News Report:

EUROBASKET NEWS REPORT - 10/12/2007

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Men News

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ABA

New transactions and news -by Bruno Baltazar
After five years of steady development at George Washington, Dokun Akingbade (6'9''-F-84, college: George Washington), a 6'9" center has signed to play with the ABA Vermont Frost Heaves this season.
After graduation last spring, he logged time with the Long Island Pride pro team and earned a look from AD Vagos of Portugal's Uzo Liga - the club for which former Frost Heave Tyrone Levett now plays. "What impresses me most about Dokun is the steady improvement throughout his college career," said Vermont coach Will Voigt. "He's shown that hunger, that willingness to do the work, and for that reason he should fit in really well with us."
He spent a redshirt year in advance of his senior season, then blossomed last winter, averaging 7.3 points and 5.6 rebounds in 32 games and shooting 54.7% from the floor as George Washington won an Atlantic 10 Tournament title. Six times last season he posted double-doubles, and in the A-10 Tournament, he delivered a 15-point, seven offensive-rebound performance against Rhode Island.

Pony International, the Official Shoe of the ABA, announced that they have signed an endorsement agreement with Wilson Chandler, the New York Knicks 2007 first-round pick, for the re-launch of its performance basketball line for fall 2007. Executives from Pony will be the featured guests on ABA All Access Radio on Saturday at 3 pm EST to talk about the endorsement and their newly formed association with the ABA including a new line of specially made ABA shoes.

The Pasadena Push will be holding auditions for all types of dancers and cheerleaders - hip hop, break dancers, poppers, ballet, jazz, etc. These dancers will be competing for a chance to perform at every halftime game for the new Pasadena Push professional basketball team.
Auditions will be held at 1081 Fair Oaks Blvd in Pasadena at the parks and recreation gym. Auditions start at 4 pm on Saturday, Oct. 13th and Sunday, Oct. 14th. World famous choreographer Eric "Candyman" Nash will be overseeing the auditions.
For more information on registration, email Eric Nash at pasadenapush@hotmail.com or call either (424) 645-9378 or (310) 600-3652.

Milly's Tavern, a rustic night spot located in the Millyards of Manchester, will host the Manchester Millrats dance team final auditions Thursday night, October 11th from 7-9 pm.
The dance team auditions will take place on Milly's center stage and there will be a panel of judges on hand to make the final selections. The auditions will called by 96.5 The Mill's own Alex James, a local deejay who will also be the Millrats official Public Address announcer for the season.
"KeriAnn has done an unbelievable job of putting together the dance team and organizing entertainment for our home games," stated Millrats part owner David Cooper. Once the fans get a chance to experience the quality of entertainment we are hosting, in addition to the basketball, they will be thrilled."
The over-18 public is invited to attend the dance team auditions at Milly's Tavern and mingle. In addition to the dancers, several of the Millrats players and staff will be on hand.
The Millrats play their home games at the 'Fieldhouse' on the campus of Southern New Hampshire University in Manchester NY. The season and home opener is set for Sunday, Nov. 11th at 4:35 pm vs the Boston Blizzard. Single game, season and half season ticket plans are on sale now on www.manchestermillrats.com or by calling (866) 943-8849.
For more information, please contact Millrats Director of Media Relations Steve Yankopoulos at millrats@gmail.com

Darren Phillip and John "Mookie" Thomas off to Strong Starts Overseas -by Surujh Roopnarine
Former Strong Island Sound forward Darren Phillip (6'7''-F-78, college: Fairfield) and lead guard John 'Mookie" John "Mookie" Thomas III (5'9''-G-76, college: St.Francis,NY) have gotten off to quick starts this season overseas to say the least.
Phillip, who appeared in 13 games with Strong Island last season has helped lead CAI Zaragoza to a 2-1 record thru three games in Spain's LEB Gold division. Phillip, the consummate team player and hard worker is putting up incredible scoring outputs, averaging 21.3ppg, to go along with 8.3rpg while shooting 54% from the field. One of the top players in the ABA last season, Phillip averaged a double-double (18.3 points and 12.5 rebounds) before heading to Spain.
Meanwhile over in France, John Thomas III, filling in for the injured Brian Swift has paid immediate dividends for Quimper in the Pro B division. Quimper stands at 3-1 and "Mookie" has started every game, averaging 13 points, 4 rebounds and 3 assister per contest. In the last three seasons, John III Thomas has worked out with the Sound but gotten overseas opportunities right before the first game of the ABA season. True pros in every sense of the word, look for continued success from these as well as the many other Sound alum plying their trade outside the USA.

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ADRIATIC LEAGUE

Crvena Zvezda alone on the top after 3 rounds -by Dragan Jankovski

After three rounds of Adriatic league, Crvena Zvezda from Belgrade is the only undefeated team. They recorded third win beating Cibona at home 106-93 at the front of almost 4.500 people in hall Pionir. It was a game with lot of points. On the half time both teams scored 102 points together. Crucial moment of the game happened in 35th minute when Tadija Dragicevic was successful from behind the arc after what center Misanovic made a dunk for 90-80 what obviously was enough for the win. USA point guard Omar Cook (186-G-82, college: St.John's) once again showed how big reinforcement he is for red and white team as he was MVP of the game with index rate 39. He almost made double-double collecting 26 points, 9 assists and 5 steals. Tadija Dragicevic (205-F-86) also demonstrated fantastic performance pouring in 30 points. Larry Ayuso (190-G-77, agency: Edge Sports, college: USC) scored 27 points for Cibona, who now has one win and two defeats.

FMP Zeleznik celebrated in derby against reining Serbian and Adriatic league champion, Partizan Igokea, 90-80. “Panthers” made advantage of 15 points still in the 15th minute but at the half way to go of the third quarter Partizan succeeded to equalize, 50-50. After that point center Predrag Samardziski (215-C-86) came on the scene scoring 19 points in the second half, 26 in total, and brought second win to FMP. Dragan Labovic (207-C/F-87) scored 12 points in the last period. Center Nikola Pekovic (210-C-86, agency: Beo Basket) was the best for Partizan finishing the game with 20 points and 5 rebounds.

Hemofarm outplayed Buducnost Podgorica, who came to the Vrsac with two wins, 94-72. Orange team controlled the game from the start letting visitors just to come on 67-66 at the beginning of the last quarter but that was all as they finished this period 27-10. Tandem Vladan Vukosavljevic (206-F/C-84, agency: Beo Basket), who dominated in the paint collecting 28 points and 8 rebounds, and Nebojsa Joksimovic (193-G-81, agency: Beo Basket), who had 22 points, 4 rebs and 6 assists, was unstoppable for Buducnost.

Vojvodina Srbijagas made very important win against Zagreb on the road 79-99. After disaster against Partizan in Belgrade, Zagreb suffered one more inconvenient defeat. Vojvodina smashed them in the last quarter 18:33. Vladimir Golubovic (212-C-86) had an impressive night as he scored 22 points and grabbed 16 rebounds. Milos Bojovic (198-G-81) also had 22 points including 6 rebounds and 4 assists. Filip Basljan (196-G-84) scored 19 points for Zagreb.

Crvena Zvezda - Cibona 106:93
(31:28,24:19,19:24,32:22)

Crvena Zvezda: Krasnic 3, Markovic 11 (5 as, 4 st), Kikanovic 6, Cook 26 (9 as, 5 st), Kovac 6, Misanovic 17 (13 rebs), Tica, Dragicevic 30 (4 rebs), Rondovic, Cvetkovic 3, Sljivancanin 4, Bakic.
Cibona: Warren 18 (5 rebs), Kelley 2, Krasic 2 (7 rebs), Vukusic, Andric 4, Ayuso 27, Lonzo 21, Princ 1, Rozic 8, Mulaomerovic 10.

FMP - Partizan Igokea 90:80
(22:15,22:27,22:20,24:18)

FMP: Djerasimovic 13, Erceg 5, Labovic 12 (5 rebs), Lazic 2, Krstovic 18 (4 rebs, 6 as), Macvan 5, Protic 6, Micic, Zigeranovic 2, Samardzijski 26 (5 rebs), Covic 1 (5 as)
DNP: Stefanovic.
Partizan Igokea: Palacio 15, Tepic 18, Kecman 4 (8 rebs, 3 as), Borovnjak 6, Tripkovic 7, Velickovic 5 (7 rebs), Pekovic 20 (5 rebs), Vitkovac 5, Djurkovic, Bozic
DNP: Riznic, Balaban.

Hemofarm STADA - Buducnost 94:72
(20:17,24:16,23:29,27:10)

Hemofarm STADA: Pavkovic 10, Trailovic, Joksimovic 22 (6 as), Markovic 5 (5 as), Savovic 5, Rakic, Jagodnik 16 (7 rebs, 5 as), Borisov 8 (4 as), Vukosavljevic 28 (8 rebs)
DNP: Simonovic, Bozovic, Marjanovic.
Buducnost: Otasevic 2, Micov 12 (5 as), Popovic 8, Gordic 3, Mijatovic 2, Sehovic, Rakocevic 12 (4 rebs), Bakic 13 (4 rebs), Maras 13 (4 rebs), Dasic, Dragicevic 7
DNP: Lekovic.

Zagreb - Vojvodina Srbijagas 79:99
(15:22,19:23,27:21,18:23)

Zagreb: Tomic, Vladovic 14 (4 as), Babic, Simon 11 (4 as), Papac, Dundovic 10, Garma 12, Novosel 2, Vrsaljko 8, Basljan 19, Sesar 3, Nakic.
Vojvodina Srbijagas: Ivanovic 8, Duvnjak, Golubovic 22 (16 rebs), Pekovic 1, Lekic 6, Paunic 2, Markovic 5, Nemeth 19, Bajic, Djordjevic 14 (5 as), Bojovic 22 (6 rebs, 4 as)

DNP: Pavkovic.

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ANGOLA

1º de Agosto And Interclub “Heat Up" Fifth Round -by Carlos Pereira
1º de Agosto and Interclub play on Friday at Codemn pavilion for the fifth round of the senior males provincial basketball championship.
The game, starting at 06:30pm, will be the first between two of the three candidates to conquer the trophy.
Both teams, until the moment, only have victories, after defeating all opponents.
1º de Agosto (titleholders) defeated Nocal (94-72), ASA (108-64) and Universidade Lusiada (90-60).
Interclube, second position with the same points as the leader of the competition, Petro de Luanda (08), beat Imbondeiro de Viana (82-47), CDUAN (76-64), Sporting de Luanda (110-64) and Nocal (87-68).
The game with Interclube will also mark the debut game of the Cape Verdian point guard Marques Houtman contracted at the end of the African Men`s Basketball Championship (Afrobasket), hosted by Angola last August.
The athlete is in the country since Sunday. On the other hand, other new reinforcement Francisco Jordao and Rodrigo Mascarenhas, have already played for 1º de Agosto.

Bellow is the Fifth Round Fixtures:

ASA - CDUAN Universidade Lusiada - Vila Clotilde Imbondeiros de Viana - Sporting de Luanda 1º de Agosto - Interclube Petro de Luanda - Nocal

General Standings:

Petro de Luanda 04 08 Interclube 04 08 1º de Agosto 03 06 ASA 04 06 Lusiadas 04 05 Sporting de Luanda 03 04 Imbondeiro de Viana 04 04 CDUAN 03 03 Nocal 03 03 Vila Clotilde 00 00

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ARGENTINA

Sanders for Peeples -by Facundo Iatzky
El Nacional Monte Hermoso signed Junie Sanders (192-G-72, college: Cent.Oklahoma), who will replace Michael Peeples (201-G/F-85, college: Fairleigh Dickinson). Peeples did not like to coaches of El Nacional so he could play just 2 games.

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BARBADOS

Warriors thrash rival Senators; take Game 1 -by Justin Marville
Having dropped both regular season games to the more experienced Colombian Emeralds International Senators, the Playfair Warriors were looking forward to a twelve round showdown in Game 1 of the league final against their South Zone rivals.

The bout turned into a first round knockout.

Led by a 20-1 opening run to begin the contest, the Warriors never trailed in Game 1 of the Sagicor/BOA Third Division league final, outplaying the neighbouring Senators at both ends of the court on their way to a 72-45 rout on Wednesday night at the Wildey Gymnasium.

Despite missing some easy scoring opportunities in the open court at the start of the game, the Daryell's Road side opened the first quarter scoring eleven unanswered points leading to an initial 20-1 run in the period's first seven and a half minutes with forwards Oran Skeete and Ricardo Toussaint scoring on the inside at will while Randy Simmons sank a couple treys to give the Warriors a well balanced attack.

The Senators' offence was just woeful in the period, clearly missing the leadership of starting point guard Richard Bennett who was absent for the contest, as usual sharp shooting guards Barry Franklyn and Dennis Hart could not buy a basket from the perimeter while Brian Yarde and Dwight Rouse failed to get going on the inside.

The ensuing result; a 22-5 first quarter deficit from which the Senators would never recover from as their offensive ineptitude carried over to the start of the ensuing period, leading to a subsequent 12-4 Warriors run to begin the second quarter spurred on by Laron Elliot.

Trailing 34-9 with 3:20 left in the first half, the then desperate Senators switched from a 2-3 zone to man-to-man on defence with some initial success before Simmons would give the Warriors a strong finish to the period, scoring on yet another three pointer and adding a lay-up in transition to secure a 40-16 half-time advantage

Persisting with a man-to-man defence to start the third quarter, the Rockley squad began to make inroads into the Warriors huge lead, managing to keep Skeete and company quiet by forcing some timely turnovers and poor shot attempts while holding them to one shot and out on most possessions.

The insertion of young guard Andre Freeman early in the period also paid great dividends for the Senators side as he and Yarde combined to score eight quick points to reduce the deficit to less than twenty points, 42-24, within five minutes of the third quarter.

But that is as close as they would get the rest of the way as Skeete took over the third quarter, pounding away in the low blocks to score seven points in five minutes, rebuilding a twenty-four point lead, 54-30, at the end of the period as the Senators committed some unnecessary turnovers and silly errors which ended their brief rally.

Failing to keep their rivals out of transition, the Senators wasted guard Shane Sealy's offensive lift off the bench as they found themselves trading baskets back and forth with the Warriors' Damian Simpson.

Another short lived run midway through the fourth allowed the Rockley side to cut the lead below twenty points, 63-44, but this led to another strong Warriors reply, this one a 7-0 run over the game's last three minutes that put away the listless Senators for good.

Skeete top scored for the Warriors with 15 points, Simmons added 13 while Toussaint and Simpson both chipped in with 12 points apiece. Yarde was the lone Senators player in double digits with a team high 15.

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BRUNEI

Brunei Hope To Rebound After Asean Cup Disappointment -by Hector Santos
The Brunei Veteran Basketball Team returned home empty-handed yesterday afternoon after losing all their matches in the 16th Asean Veteran Invitational Basketball Cup held in Genting Highlands, Malaysia.

The leader of the contingent, Mr. Wong Ming Ching, has vowed to do better next year when Brunei Darussalam will host the prestigious basketball tournament.

In an interview, he said, "We did our best, (but) the competition was very tough. And in addition to participating in the games, we also bridged ties with the various basketball associations which is the main aim of the tournament."

He added, "With Brunei Darussalam hosting the Asean Veteran Invitational Basketball Cup next year, we will surely get a better result than this year."

Brunei Darussalam took part in the 40 and 50 age groups. In the 40 age group, Brunei lost to Singapore 30-56, to Indonesia 56-76 and to Kuching 45-67.

In the 50 age group, Brunei lost to Kuala Lumpur 17-50, to Indonesia 3773, to Singapore 35-68 and Ngri Sembilan 37-44.

Kuala Lumpur took clean sweep of all the categories by winning in the 40, 50 and 60 age groups.

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BULGARIA

Lukoil Academic started the season in a nice way -by Lubomir Neshev
Champion of Bulgaria, Lukoil Academic showed in its first game that will not have any competition this year in the country. "The students" started the new season with convincing 96-61 win over CSKA Interlogic. They dominated the game from first to last and were making beautiful plays for the audience.
The game started excellent for Lukoil Academic who imposed their style of play at the beginning. With great team defense and good counterattacks they gained solid advantage after one quarter, 24-7. In the second things on court didn't change. Dante Smith impressed the people with some nice dunks and good impression in that minutes made the youngster Dimitar Philipov. The difference went up by only six points and the score after the first half was 26-49.
The second half started once again with better play from the visitors. Anyway they didn't push themselves so hard as in the first quarter but that didn't stop them from increasing again their lead. After three quarters it was 30 points, 76-46. The last quarter was mostly for the record and the only question was if Lukoil Academic could reach the 100 points. They didn't succeed in doing that and ended with 96 compared to CSKA's 61. In the last minutes of the game their debut for the team made the youngsters Kalin Hristov, Yovcho Atanasov and Kaloyan Prokopiev.
Pero Antic showed in this game that he will be one of the leaders of the team this season. He ended up with 28 points, 12 rebounds, 7 assists and 3 steals. Todor Stoykov and Petroslav Zafirov were the next best scorers with 19 and 16 points respectively. For CSKA Interlogic the captain Georgi Davidov and Mike Henderson finished as best scorers with 14 points each.
In the next round Lukoil Academic will host Spartak Pleven in Pravets while CSKA Interlogic will meet Balkan Botevgrad in Hristo Botev Hall on Sunday.

FIBA to stop Burks for Lukoil Academic -by Lubomir Neshev
Lukoil Academic will not count on Antonio Burks (183-G-80, college: Memphis)'s services for the new season. This was announced by Sports Director Sasho Vezenkov.
In personal conversation with FIBA Europe's sports director, Kosta Iliev, Vezenkov was told that Burks's rights have been stopped and he won't be able to play basketball for one year. According to the central he left Red Star Belgrade without having the right to do so. He wasn't paid for one month and has decided to leave the club on his won. At the end FIBA Europe decided this matter succesfully for Red Star. By this the Bulgarian champions are facing serious problem. They need to find good playmaker as soon as possible for the start of their ULEB Cup campaign. Vezenkov added that until wednesday all transfers of the club should be finished. In the next days the team is waiting for an answer from Maccabi Tel Aviv for the loaning of Brasilian center Murilo Da Rosa.

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CAMBODIA

Cambodia national team to shock other SEA Games rival -by Hector Santos
When an undersized but disciplined Lebanese national team knocked off world powerhouse France in the 2006 FIBA World Championships in Tokyo, a precedent was brought back to Phnom Penh by Cambodia's new national team coach Austin Koledoye.

"Basketball is a global sport now-look at China-ten years ago there wasn't anything like the impact it has today," said Austin Koledoye, a 39-year-old Nigerian who was named head coach by the Ministry of Education, Youth and Sports in March. "We're now playing the first structured basketball in Cambodian history."

Koledoye is fielding a 16-man roster with no players over 2 meters tall and none who can dunk.

Cambodia was affiliated into basketball's world body, the Geneva-based Federation Internationale de Basketball, in 1958. Today, Cambodia is ranked 83 in the world, FIBA's lowest tier shared by all countries with zero international points.

The national team lost its most recent international competition 137-34 to the Philippines, and until two months ago held its six weekly practices on the outdoor courts alongside Olympic Stadium.

"The last time we went to the SEA Games it was a disaster, that's not going to repeat itself," said Koledoye. "We know we have no size, but we'll develop speed, fundamentals, accuracy and defense."

The 103 points lost of Cambodia to the Asian powerhouse Philippines is the most lopsided lost in the Southeast Asian basketball history.

Koledoye grew up following the Hall of Fame career of former NBA star Hakeem "The Dream" Olajuwon. He played professionally for the State-run Raiders Basketball Club of Akure through the late-1980s and became a licensed International Basketball Federation referee in 2005.

Koledoye, who earned a Masters degree in Education from the College of New Jersey, has been a teacher in Phnom Penh since 1998.

"I see my players: I must face reality. We have a team that is fast so we'll put the ball on the floor and have a fast-break offense. We'll run zone defense and a full court press," he said.

Assistant coach Lor Syngharith is cautious of excessive optimism. He was a national team player during the Sangkum Reastr Niyum era, trained as a coach in Russia from 1987 to 1992 and became national coach in 1995. He laments the lack of training facilities, funding and equipment.

"In other countries they've stopped using training facilities like ours. But the new coach isn't making excuses about this. He's thinking only about training hard to reach our goal," Syngharith told the Post.

"I think his way of training is good, but I'm afraid that the trainees can't stand his strict rules."

According to Koledoye, a weight training program, increased nutrition and financial sponsorships will improve the national team.

"My reputation rests on this. We're not just going to participate, we'll try to win-it'll be tough," he said. "I tell them the NBA won't help: watch college basketball. They're beginning to understand."

With the inclusion of Cambodian-American Soap Toun, co-captain of the NCAA Division II Stonehill Skyhawks, in the team and possible more Cambodian-American recruits, Cambodian national team will try to improve their status in international basketball.

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CBA

Miners sign first player -by Eurobasket News
PIKEVILLE, KY. - Former Syracuse standout Josh Pace (6'6''-G/F-83, agency: Interperformances, college: Syracuse) is bringing his exceptional game to Eastern Kentucky. The East Kentucky Miners have signed Pace, a 6-foot-5 guard/small forward who is fresh off of an exceptional season with the Nelson Giants of New Zealand's National Basketball League (NBL), pending league approval.

A Griffin, Ga. native, Pace has been a part of championship teams in both the college and professional ranks. He is the first signee for the East Kentucky Miners, an expansion team in the Continental Basketball Association (CBA). He is New Zealand's reigning player of the year.

"As an organization, we're very excited to have Josh Pace onboard," said East Kentucky Coach Kevin Keathley. “Having won a national championship at Syracuse and played for legendary coach Jim Boeheim, Josh will be a great foundation builder for us."
Keathley is confident in Pace's abilities.

"He's a versatile player that can really get to the rim and create," said Keathley. “His ability to defend on the perimeter as well as in the paint will be pivotal for us in what we try to do within our basketball system."

A former sportsmanship award winner, Pace has displayed strong quality character traits.

“Josh will be a great addition to Eastern Kentucky," Keathley added. Pace was a leading contributor during each of his four seasons with the Syracuse men's basketball program, appearing in 32 of 36 games in his freshman campaign.

He was an important part of Syracuse's 2003 National Championship run as a sophomore, scoring a season-high 14 points against Auburn in the Sweet 16 and 12 versus Texas in the National Semifinals. Pace scored eight points and pulled down eight rebounds in the national title game versus Kansas.

He averaged 8.0 points, 3.7 rebounds, 1.8 assists and 1.2 steals, and made good on .639 percent (23-of-36) of his shots during the 2003 NCAA Tournament. After Carmelo Anthony departed the Syracuse basketball program for the NBA, Pace took on an even bigger role in his junior season, averaging 9.5 points and 33.9 minutes per game.
In his senior season, Pace averaged 10.8 points per game for one of the nation's top college basketball programs. Pace scored a career-high 22 points against Rice during his senior campaign.

An asset both on the court and in the community, Pace was awarded the Big East Conference Sportsmanship Award. In addition, Pace was named to the All-Big East team as an Honorable Mention selection and earned an All-Big East Tournament team nod. He averaged 7.3 points, 3.8 rebounds and 2.4 assists per game at Syracuse, playing in 129 games, 65 of which he started.

After graduation, Pace played in the 2005 Utah Jazz Summer League. The Syracuse product played on three separate teams overseas during the 2006 season. Pace was named an NBL All-Star as a member of the Nelson Giants during the 2007 season, averaging 19.1 points, 6.6 rebounds, 3.5 rebounds and 1.4 steals per game. He led the Giants to the NBL title and claimed the league's Most Valuable Player award.
East Kentucky will open its inaugural season in the CBA on Friday, Nov. 16 in Pittsburgh versus the Xplosion.
Courtesy of: http://www.cbahoopsonline.com

CBA today, NBA tomorrow? -by Eurobasket News
Former Sacramento State men's basketball guard Haron Hargrave (5'11''-G-84) was drafted by the Albany Patroons 59th overall in this year's Continental Basketball Association draft last week.

Haron Hargrave is the second Sac State player to be drafted by the CBA and is the 12th player under current Hornet coach Jerome Jenkins to be given a professional contract. Haron Hargrave has come a long way on a journey that has taken him across the country.

"I loved it, but it was so wild," Haron Hargrave said about growing up in Queens, N.Y.

He picked up a basketball early in his life and by the time he was 7, he was playing in the city basketball leagues, making him known as a point guard on the rise. By the time he was a senior at Campus Magnet High School in Cambria Heights, he was the team's star point guard and was named to the all-league and city teams. Other coaches at his school were begging him to play other sports.

"I remember all the time I was at school, the football coach was on me to get out there and play," Haron Hargrave said.

Haron Hargrave was talented in basketball, football and baseball, even playing for his high school baseball team briefly before deciding basketball would be his main focus.

"Basketball was always my first love," Haron Hargrave said.

After graduating high school, Haron Hargrave attended Sullivan County Community College in Loch Sheldrake, N.Y. Quickly named starting guard, he led his team to a perfect 14-0 record, winning the Mid-Hudson Conference Championship. Just a freshman, he was also named first team-all region, all conference and freshman of the year.

After all the instant success, Haron Hargrave expected to win many more titles at Sullivan, but plans changed quick right before his sophomore year.

"My coach all of a sudden quit and I just didn't feel like that was the place for me," he said.

Haron Hargrave dreamed of playing in the NBA, but his life turned upside down after the death of his mother.

"My mom died and everything was overwhelming me," he said. "I found myself thinking what was I going to do next."

Family and basketball brought him to California, where playing at a tournament caught the attention of Chaffey Junior College in Rancho Cucamonga.

Though different from New York, Haron Hargrave quickly adapted to the West Coast.

"I love the weather. It's a peaceful place that really made me focus on what I needed to do," he said.

Haron Hargrave played one year at Chaffey, but that was all he needed to catch the eye of Sac State coach Jerome Jenkins.

"Haron is a example of how this program is growing and going in the right direction," Jenkins said.

Haron Hargrave adjusted easily to Sac State.

"I loved (Sac) State. The campus and people were cool," he said.

Even before playing a quarter for the Hornets, Haron Hargrave felt this was his best chance for "getting to the next level."

Haron Hargrave moved into a house in Natomas with Sacramento Kings guard and high school friend Quincy Douby.

Douby, like Haron Hargrave, was raised in New York City, hailing from Brooklyn.

"I know a lot of NBA players, but Quincy has really helped me," Haron Hargrave said.

"I think coming from the same lifestyle and making it to the NBA shows him he can make it to the NBA," Douby said.

With a stable home, school and team situation, Haron Hargrave was ready to make his NBA dreams a reality.

During his two seasons with the Hornets, his game continued to improve. In his first season, he averaged nine points and two assists a game, but his final season saw him average a team-leading 13 points and two steals, which was good enough for fourth in the Big Sky Conference.

"He was a clutch player and he could really score," Jenkins said.

Even though he still had a semester of school left, Haron Hargrave was chosen by the Albany Patroons, one of the CBA's most popular franchises where Hall of Fame coach Phil Jackson got his coaching start.

"Even though I'm going to miss Sac and the weather, I'm excited about heading back East, back close to home," Haron Hargrave said. "It's another journey in my life. I'm getting closer to the NBA."

It's been a long road for Haron Hargrave and the CBA is another big new stop, but those who know him have confidence he'll succeed.

"Haron's a survivor who has went through rough times in his life, but he can go as far as he wants to go," Jenkins said.

Haron Hargrave has plans for going far, but before he goes to the NBA or even getting established in the CBA, he wants to get his degree and make his mother proud.

"She had two masters degrees and she was always on me about school. If it wasn't for her, I wouldn't be in school, much less playing ball. She made such an impact in my life," Haron Hargrave said.

Haron Hargrave's life has taken him from the East to the West coast and back, but he doesn't worry about failure. He knows what it takes and how to get to where he wants to be.

"I take everything in stride. Life's a journey and my journey's just begun," he said.
Courtesy of: http://media.www.statehornet.com

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COLOMBIA

Soles vs Bucaros Games 3,4 and 5 on National TV -by Victor Garcia
Soles and Bucaros will see its faces in San Andres from today in the night, playing the games 3, 4 and 5 of the series, Bucaros leads the series 2-0, the games will be Nationally broadcasted for the regional channels, is the first time in the history for a Basketball game to be broadcasted from San Andres Island in the National TV

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CROATIA

Only Split wins in Adriatic League -by Eurobasket News
Croatian teams played the next games in Adriatic League. This time only Split could bring the win for the country. Three other teams lost the second games in the League.

Split had a road win over Slovan 65;80. Marlon Garnett (188-G-75, college: Santa Clara) led the winners with 22 points in a win. Rudez nailed 16, while Ivanov added 15. Clemons ended up with 16 points in a losing effort.

Crvena Zvezda recorded third win beating Cibona at home 106:93. USA point guard Omar Cook (186-G-82, college: St.John's) once again showed how big reinforcement. He almost made double-double collecting 26 points, 9 assists and 5 steals. Larry Ayuso scored 27 points for Cibona, who now has one win and two defeats.

Vojvodina Srbijagas made very important win against Zagreb on the road 79:99. After disaster against Partizan in Belgrade, Zagreb suffered one more inconvenient defeat. Vladimir Golubovic had an impressive night as he scored 22 points and grabbed 16 rebounds. Filip Basljan (196-G-84) scored 19 points for Zagreb.

Zadar lost to Olimpia 56:74. After a promising win over Cibona Zagreb in Round 1, Zadar dropped two consecutive games. Coach Aleksandar Petrovic had no choice but to resign just seven days after the start of the season.

Slovan-Split 65:80 (15:24, 13:17, 14:19, 23:20)
Slovan: Clemons 16, Clobucar 15
Split: Marlon Garnett 22, Rudez 16, Ivanov 15

Crvena Zvezda - Cibona 106:93 (31:28,24:19,19:24,32:22)
Crvena Zvezda: Krasnic 3, Markovic 11 (5 as, 4 st), Kikanovic 6, Omar Cook 26 (9 as, 5 st), Kovac 6, Misanovic 17 (13 rebs), Tica, Dragicevic 30 (4 rebs), Rondovic, Cvetkovic 3, Sljivancanin 4, Bakic.
Cibona: Warren 18 (5 rebs), Kelley 2, Krasic 2 (7 rebs), Vukusic, Andric 4, Ayuso 27, Lonzo 21, Princ 1, Rozic 8, Mulaomerovic 10.

Zagreb - Vojvodina Srbijagas 79:99 (15:22,19:23,27:21,18:23)
Zagreb: Tomic, Vladovic 14 (4 as), Babic, Simon 11 (4 as), Papac, Dundovic 10, Garma 12, Novosel 2, Vrsaljko 8, Filip Basljan 19, Sesar 3, Nakic.
Vojvodina Srbijagas: Ivanovic 8, Duvnjak, Golubovic 22 (16 rebs), Pekovic 1, Lekic 6, Paunic 2, Markovic 5, Nemeth 19, Bajic, Djordjevic 14 (5 as), Bojovic 22 (6 rebs, 4 as)

Zadar-Olimpia 56:74 (19:27, 12:10, 20:11, 8:26)
Zadar: Corey Brewer (188-G-75, college: Oklahoma) 16, Jure Lalic 16
Olimpia: Jasmin Hukic 21

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CZECH REP.

Prostejov and Brno get hard wins to remain on top -by Eurobasket News
Decin - Prostejov 89:90
Prostejov faced Decin away from home in the third round and needed some luck to overcome the hosts. Decin lost their starting two games and were taken as underdogs in this encounter. However the starting period set a bit different tone for the game. Pavel Milos (200-F-79, agency: PPGroup) scored early 8 points for the home side to lift Decin to an 8:1 lead. Damien Argrett (203-F/C-82, college: Pfeiffer) added another 8 points and Pavel Milos connected twice from afar to seal a 29:20 advantage after the first frame.
Prostejov tried to climb back in the second quarter but 5 points from Pavel Milos allowed Decin to still lead at halftime 45:40. Rashaan Ames (184-G-77, college: Shaw) nailed 6 points early in the third term and Prostejov grabbed a 48:47 advantage. The teams exchanged the lead for a couple of times before finally entering the fourth period all square at 66.
The game remained a close affair throughout the fourth period and the teams were still drawn with less than 2 minutes left in regulation. Rashaan Ames netted a jumper to put Prostejov in front but Damien Argrett responded with two free throws to keep Decin in contest with 24 seconds remaining. He added another free throw 11 seconds later to give Decin a 1-point lead. But Rashaan Ames sank a two-point attempt with 3 seconds on the clock to bring Prostejov to victory. Marek Balik (195-G-83) treid to save the day for the hosts but his attempt came off the target.
Rashaan Ames led the action with 29 points, 5 rebounds and 4 assists. Goran Savanovic (198-G-73, agency: Court Side) added 20 points for the winners. Pavel Milos nailed 24 points for Decin. Damien Argrett scored 23 points in a losing effort.

Ostrava - Brno 78:80
Brno visited winless Ostrava and met a fierce resistance at Cas Arena. John Ofoegbu (206-C-82, college: Texas Tech) scored first 8 points for Ostrava and they claimed an 8:4 lead. But David Machac (204-F-80) delivered 4 points late in the first frame and Brno gained a 23:22 advantage. The lead changed hands for four times in the second quarter before Brno found the touch from the field and left Ostrava behind 39:32 at halftime.
Ostrava could not comeback into the game in the third stanza and Brno easily secured a 66:53 lead entering the fourth frame. However John Ofoegbu chipped in 5 straight points midway through the final quarter to cut the deficit to just 5 points. Mike Mitchel added another 3 points and Ostrava tied the scoreline at 76 with just over 1 minute remaining. John Ofoegbu scored another jumper and Ostrava regained the lead 78:76 with 53 seconds left. But first Daniel Gajdosik (189-G-80) sank two free throws to draw teams and then converted a jump shot at the buzzer to ensure the third straight victory for Brno.
David Machac topscored for Brno with 24 points and 9 rebounds. Daniel Gajdosik and Stepan Vrubl (185-G-76) scored 15 points apiece for the winners. John Ofoegbu replied with 19 points for Ostrava. Mike Mitchel had 18 points, 8 rebounds and 7 assists in a loss.
Now 4 teams seat at the top of the ladder undefeated. Brno and Prostejov are accompanied with Pardubice and Geofin who drove to respective wins in the fourth round.

Praha - Pardubice 72:77
Praha: Lucious Wagner (194-G-81, agency: Court Side, college: Evansville) 14, Lukas Kotas (192-F-84) 13
Pardubice: Sullivan Phillips (196-F-79, college: Columbia Union) 17, Jiri Novotny (199-F-77) 16

Geofin - Nymburk 88:67
Geofin: Robert Sarovic (205-F-78, agency: Court Side) 16, Rostislav Pelikan (207-F/C-78) 16
Nymburk: Blake Schilb (201-G-83, college: Loyola, IL) 14, Radek Necas (204-F-80) 11

Sadska - Usti 102:77
Sadska: Tim Lyle (202-F-79, college: JMU) 25+10 boards, Denis Mujagic (193-G-69) 18
Usti: Kevin Thomas (198-F/G-82, college: Georgia St.) 28, Jan Tomanec (212-C-85) 17

Kolin - Liberec 90:81
Kolin: Jakub Velensky (182-G-79) 22, Jiri Sebek (200-F-76) 19+10 boards
Liberec: Ladislav Toth (196-F-83) 30, Lukas Kraus (201-F-84) 21

Ostrava - Brno 78:80
Ostrava: John Ofoegbu 19, Mike Mitchel 18+8 boards
Brno: David Machac 24+9 boards, Daniel Gajdosik 15

Decin - Prostejov 89:90
Decin: Pavel Milos 24, Damien Argrett 23
Prostejov: Rashaan Ames 29, Goran Savanovic 20

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EL SALVADOR

Two wins for UTEC and Cosmos -by Jaime Arevalo

On thursday night, Cosmos prevailed over ExSal 81-67, keeping the head of the Liga Superior table. The guys coached by Ernesto Rodriguez , however, found a good opposition from ExSal, led by Panamanian Jorge Taton (200-F/C-81), who scored 20 points, and Mauro Oglive, who added 14, while Oscar Rivera (186-G-80) led Cosmos scoring 20 points. In another game, UTEC defeated Denver led by Troy Watson (197-F/C-82), Carlos Martinez (190-F-79) and Alvin Camacho (191-G/F-78). Watson was teh game top scorer at 26, Carlos Alas (181-G-79) led Denver in losing effort at 23. The dstandings are now as follows:

1. Cosmos 4-0
2. UTEC 2-1
3. ExSal 1-1
4. Denver 1-2
5. APG 0-1

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ESTONIA

Fausto Tartu hands third straight loss to Kraft Moobel -by Eurobasket News

Fausto Tartu - Kraft Moobel 72:58
Fausto Tartu Kalev team gained their second victory in the EMKL. They overcame Kraft Moobel to reach a 2-1 record in the ladder. Kraft Moobel meanwhile suffered their third consecutive loss and remained at the bottom of the table. Fausto Tartu shaped their objectives early in the game as they started it quite aggressively and drove to a 27:7 lead after 10 minutes of play. Kraft Moobel lacked leader on the court and could not revive in the second term trailing by 25 points at halftime 17:42. The game though began to become leveled after the intermission and Kraft Moobel managed to stay in contest in the third period. Fausto Tartu looked too confident and obviously slowed down in the final minutes allowing the visitors outscore them 23:10 however with little impact on the scoreline.
Ardo Armpalu (207-F/C-80, college: Marshall) nailed 21 points and grabbed 11 boards for Fausto Tartu. Osvaldas Macernis (197-F-82) contributed 19 points, 7 rebounds and 6 assists for the winners. Heiko Niidas (206-C-83) replied with 17 points and 8 rebounds for Kraft Moobel. Anton Batanov (181-G-82) had 13 points in defeat.
The hosts posted 43% from the field and 85% from free throw line. The visitors answered with 43% of field goals but lacked accuracy from charity stripe hitting just 57%. Fausto Tartu also outrebounded Kraft Moobel 39:33.
Fausto Taru next travel to Rakvere to face local Tarvas.

Fausto Tartu: Ardo Armpalu 21+11 boards, Osvaldas Macernis 19+7 boards+6 assists
Kraft Moobel: Heiko Niidas 17+8 boards, Anton Batanov 13

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EUROLEAGUE

Obradovic: Our goal is to repeat our last season's triumph -by Kostas Papadopoulos
Zeljko Obradovic gave an interesting interview at Euroleague's site, regarding the season which will begin soon and especially the prospects of his team, Panathinaikos.
Even while celebrating on-court in Athens last May, you were talking to your players about next season. Now that it's almost here, what can fans expect from the new Panathinaikos?
"First, they can expect us to play and compete the way we have in recent years. That's our first obligation, to be a winning team for our fans. We have been able to bring people back to the games and now see a lot of fans at all of them, but especially at Euroleague games. That has been a major accomplishment for us in recent years. The objective is to win and at the same time to play in a way that fans will keep enjoying."
You recently signed a Euroleague icon in Sarunas Jasikevicius, who you only coached against previously. What did you see in him as an opposing coach that made you want to sign him?
"Everyone knows how Saras plays, and for me it was very easy to understand how he could help our team. He is one of the best point guards in Europe, of course, but for me it's the fact that he's such an intelligent player, as his entire career has shown. He's only been with us a couple weeks, but you see how much he understands basketball. For him, it's almost easy. I am going to give him freedom to play. He is such a quality player, like a lot of the players I have, that I don't want to put limits on them. I want them to enjoy themselves on the court."
What is the key to balancing all the talent you have up and down the roster?
"Balancing all those players will be important when looked at in the context of a long season and the fact that many teams will come out at their best against us because everyone wants to knock off the champions. Winning against Panathinaikos will have a lot of merit for any team, and they all will be motivated. We have to understand that challenge first. Even though we have talent, there must be intensity at all times, because without it, talent alone won't win. The balance in the lineup will come according to which players match the intensity needed."
In the old days, some coaches didn't like using more than seven or eight main players. The trend now is deep benches, constant changes, and as you said, non-stop intensity. Why the change?
"Everything depends on quality. Sometimes, in the past, coaches could get by with five, six, seven, eight players. And maybe some now still try that. But if you have quality throughout the team, you have to take advantage of all that you have. Last year we had 15 players, and during the season when we had injuries, every one of them was able to contribute. One of the keys to our success, too, is that we always had good practices, even when there were injuries. In that way, it is great to have plenty of players, because you never waste a practice even over a long season when things like injuries can slow a team down."

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FINLAND

1.DIV.: Vilpas beat Ura Basket -by Rauno Hurmalainen

Despite Anthony Bennett's 38 pts Ura Basket (Kaarina) was not able to upset Vilpas (Salo) on Wednesday night at Salo. Hosting Vilpas won by six pts
81-75 (34-29). American duo Mike Housman (200-F-84, college: Md-Balt.County) and Tyler McGinn (198-F-84, college: Cal Poly - SLO) combined 40 pts (20 pts each).

Vilpas - Ura Basket 81-75 (34-29) (Tyler McGinn 20/10, Mike Housman 20 - Anthony Bennett 38, John Smith 13/14).

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FRANCE

ProA : Jason Rowe finally declared OK -by Aurelien Hipp
*He was supposed to play the whole season with Hyeres-Toulon, for the most expected come-back of the opening 2007-2008 championship. Finally sidelined for a back injury, the player will play in France this season but for Dijon, who signed him to replace injured Laurent Sciarra.

Pro B : Market news -by Aurelien Hipp
*Saulius Dumbliauskas (202-F/C-81, college: St.Bonaventure) will stay with Châlons til the end of the season. The lithuanian posted 16pts 8rebds for his first game, convincing the staff.

*After having waived Courtney Bradley (196-F-83, college: Jacksonville St.), Bourg will test Brian Heinle, coming from Brussels. He will be joined by his former teammate Lionell Bosco (176-G-81, agency: Court Side), since the young PG Willy Gallas (188-G-76) is injured for the next 6 weeks.

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GEORGIA

ONE MORE ROOKIE IN ENERGY -by Levan Mikeladze
ENERGY agreed all terms and conditions with Belton Rivers (193-G-84). Rivers played in Tennessee Tech University (NCAA1) and avaraged 17.8ppg, 3.7rpg, 2.5apg, 1.1spg, FGP: 39.8%, 3Pts: 36.4%, FT: 74.5% in 32 games. This summer he was participating on ULEB Summer League in Jesolo, Italy with CBA team where he avaraged 24.8ppg, 8rpg, 4.5spg. Belton Rivers is very talanted young man who will show himself on European court again, this time not on Summer League but on EuroCup.

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GERMANY

Bundesliga Game Day 2: Midweek Games and Results! -by Michael Taylor
Bundesliga basketball Game Day 2 featured several midweek games as the 2007-2008 season unfolded.

Tuesday night October 9, 2007

BG 74 Gottingen 91 Bayer Giants Leverkusen 85
Willie Jenkins topscored with 26pt while Jeb Ivey sank 5 of 9 threes to add 24pt as BG 74 Gottingen beat Bayer Giants Leverkusen 91-85 in their Bundesliga home opener pushing their record to 2-0 on the young season. Jumping out to a hot 25-18 lead after 1Q, Gottingen maintained their lead 46-35 at half and staved off a fierce Leverkusen 4Q comeback to earn their exciting home win. Both teams shot the ball well in the game with Gottingen hitting 47% from the floor, 12 of 31 threes (38%) and Leverkusen sank 10 for 23 (43%) from beyond the arc and 43% from the field. Leverkusen's Brendan Winters made 4 of 9 triples to lead the guests with 20pt 4reb while newly signed veteran Tyron McCoy added 15pt 4ast and PG Gordon Geib 13 in the loss. Gottingen outrebounded Leverkusen 33-31 and committed two less turnovers (16-14) in the tight game. Head coach John Patrick's rookie Gottingen team improved to a 2-0 winning their first two Bundesliga games while Leverkusen evened at 1-1.

Wednesday night October 10, 2007

ALBA Berlin 92 Giessen 46ers 54
ALBA Berlin continued their strong start to the season with a powerful team performance in Wednesday nights 92-54 home win at Max Schmelling Halle in Berlin Germany. Dijon Thompson was a perfect 9-9 from the floor including 3 of 3 threes to topscore with 22pt 9reb and Julius Jenkins buried 4 of 6 threes to add 18pt in the victory. PG Bobby Brown contributed 15pt 7ast for Berlin and Joe Herbert and Dragan Dojcin chipped in 11pt apiece. Berlin shot 61% from the floor 89% from the foul line and drilled 10 of 19 threes (53%) while outrebounding Giessen 30-25. Patrick Sparks was the only double digit scorer for the 46ers with 11. Berlin broke the game open with a 26-5 fourth quarter and limited the 46ers to 17 total second half points. ALBA is 2-0 while Giessen fell to 0-2.

Thursday night October 11, 2007

Telekom Bonn 80 Science City Jena 62
Telekom Bonn burst to a 26-13 lead after 1Q and built their advantage to 45-26 at the half before topping Science City Jena 80-62 spoiling Jena's home opener Thursday night in eastern Germany. Winsome Frazier went for a game best 24pt and John Bowler powered his way to 19pt 4reb for Head Coach Michael Koch's men. Jason Conley chipped in 16pt 6reb 4ast for Bonn. Adrian Moss led Jena with 18pt while Ali Seggelke added 17 in the loss. Bonn shot 49% to Jena's 45% but Jena outrebounded their guests 27-19. While Bonn enjoyed an advantage from the foul line, the most significant statistic was Jena's 26 turnovers for the game. Bonn remained perfect at 2-0 while Jena fell to 0-2.

Walter Tigers Tubingen 72 Eisbaren Bremerhaven 62
Walter Tigers Tubingen stormed back with a 33-20 4Q to earn a hardfought road win in Bremerhaven Thursday night in Bundesliga action. AJ Moye led the way for Tubingen with 19pt while Ryan DeMichael and Rasko Katic gave the Tigers a strong 12pt 6reb apiece and Bingo Merriex added 13reb in the win. PG Waitari Marsh also was strong chipping in 11pt 6ast for Tubingen. Bremerhaven's Tommy Adams topscored with 15pt (3 of 5 threes) while Nate Funk had 13pt 4ast and RT Guinn totaled a 10pt 15reb double double in the loss. Bremerhaven hit 37% from the field while Tubingen hit 35%. Rebounds were even at 37 but Bremerhaven suffered 15 turnovers to the Tigers 7. Tubingen enjoyed a large advantage from the foul line making 27 of 38 (71%) compared with the Eisbaren who hit only 7 of 9 for (78%). Tubingen improved to 2-0 on the young season while Bremerhaven fell to 0-2.

Bundesliga Game Day 2 continues Friday October 12th with EnBW Ludwigsburg visiting Baden Wurttemburg rival ratiopharm Ulm, reigning champion brose Baskets Bamberg traveling to Paderborn, TBB Trier hosting NewYorker Phantoms Braunschweig, Artland Dragons meeting Koln 99ers and Deutsche Bank Skyliners going northward to Oldenburg to take on Ewe Baskets Oldenburg. Teams will have a busy weekend with quick turnaround as Game Day three will take place Sunday October 14th all over Germany.

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GREECE

Obradovic: Our goal is to repeat our last season's triumph -by Kostas Papadopoulos
Zeljko Obradovic gave an interesting interview at Euroleague's site, regarding the season which will begin soon and especially the prospects of his team, Panathinaikos.
Even while celebrating on-court in Athens last May, you were talking to your players about next season. Now that it's almost here, what can fans expect from the new Panathinaikos?
"First, they can expect us to play and compete the way we have in recent years. That's our first obligation, to be a winning team for our fans. We have been able to bring people back to the games and now see a lot of fans at all of them, but especially at Euroleague games. That has been a major accomplishment for us in recent years. The objective is to win and at the same time to play in a way that fans will keep enjoying."
You recently signed a Euroleague icon in Sarunas Jasikevicius, who you only coached against previously. What did you see in him as an opposing coach that made you want to sign him?
"Everyone knows how Saras plays, and for me it was very easy to understand how he could help our team. He is one of the best point guards in Europe, of course, but for me it's the fact that he's such an intelligent player, as his entire career has shown. He's only been with us a couple weeks, but you see how much he understands basketball. For him, it's almost easy. I am going to give him freedom to play. He is such a quality player, like a lot of the players I have, that I don't want to put limits on them. I want them to enjoy themselves on the court."
What is the key to balancing all the talent you have up and down the roster?
"Balancing all those players will be important when looked at in the context of a long season and the fact that many teams will come out at their best against us because everyone wants to knock off the champions. Winning against Panathinaikos will have a lot of merit for any team, and they all will be motivated. We have to understand that challenge first. Even though we have talent, there must be intensity at all times, because without it, talent alone won't win. The balance in the lineup will come according to which players match the intensity needed."
In the old days, some coaches didn't like using more than seven or eight main players. The trend now is deep benches, constant changes, and as you said, non-stop intensity. Why the change?
"Everything depends on quality. Sometimes, in the past, coaches could get by with five, six, seven, eight players. And maybe some now still try that. But if you have quality throughout the team, you have to take advantage of all that you have. Last year we had 15 players, and during the season when we had injuries, every one of them was able to contribute. One of the keys to our success, too, is that we always had good practices, even when there were injuries. In that way, it is great to have plenty of players, because you never waste a practice even over a long season when things like injuries can slow a team down."

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HOLLAND

West-Brabant Giants Win Over Den Helder Seals, Improve To 2-0 -by Sanders Jackson

In Bergen-op-Zoom on Wednesday night, West Branabt wins its first home game of the season by defeating ice-cold shooting Den Helder Seals by the score of 89-77. The Giants held the Seals to 39.3% FG. Patrick Pope (183-G-81, college: St.Augustine) led the way for West-Brabant Giants with 17 pts. Bradley Strickland (206-F/C-85, agency: Court Side, college: Evansville) led ll scorers with 23 pts. The Giants are now 2-0.

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HUNGARY

Market news -by Tamas Deri
NYKK decided to release algerian center Tarek Oukid (205-C-79) and signed croatian player Srdjan Srdjan Helbich (205-F/C-76) (205-F/C-76) who played already twice in Hungary for Falco and Debrecen. He arrived already in Nyiregyhaza and will play his first game this weekend against Paks.

ZTE KK signed croatian center Josko Garma (206-F-81). The 26 years old big man will play his first game against Albacomp under a tryout. He spent the last season with Bosna Sarjaevo and AEK Athen, the years before he played for KK Zagreb.

Matas Niparavicius (207-C/F-82, college: Weber St.) signed with KKK. 25 years old lithuanian power forward started to play basketball in his home country. He spent a couple of years in the USA and played college basketball. His pro carreer started in 2005 and played already in Austria, Cyprus, Lithuania and Slovenia.

Anthony Dill (200-F-81, college: Texas St.-San Marcos) and Chez Marks (190-G-80, college: Morehead St.) left Kormend. The two american players were under contract with the team but had one option to leave in the first month. Dill just got to Germany, where he will be playing for Nurnberg in the second division, Marks went to Lebanon.

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ICELAND

Iceland Express league starts. -by Siggi Hjorleifsson
Iceland Express league started tonight with 4 games. 3Three games were won at home.

Thor, rookie team in the league starts with a win over IR in a close game 87-85.Leading scorers for Thor. Odinn Asgeirsson 22. Cedric Isom 21. Luka Marolt 15. For IR. Hreggvidur Magnusson 25.Steinar Arason 16
Njardvik beat Snaefell in a game never a close one. 84 - 71. Leading scorers. Brenton Birmingham (195-G-73, college: Manhattan) 27. Hordur Vilhjalmson 15 for Njardvik. Justin Shouse 23 Sigurdur Thorvaldsson 22 for Snaefell.

Hamar was the only team to loose at home when they play Tindastoll 76 - 81. Leading scorers. Marvin Valdimarsson 18 for Hamar. Donald Brown 20. Svavar Birgisson 19 for Tindastoll.

KR, last years Champion started season well by beating Fjolnir 100-78. Leading scorers. Joshua Helm 20. Brynjar Bjornsson 16 for KR. Karlton Mims & Drago Pavlovic 18. Nemanja Sovic 16 for Fjolnir

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INDIA

MEG in Geojit Cup Final -by Anil Kumar
Peter John was in fine nick (24 points) as MEG, Bangalore halted the impressive run of ICF (Chennai) 60-53 and entered the men's final of the second Geojit Cup all-India basketball tournament at the Rajiv Gandhi indoor Stadium here at kochi on Thursday evening.

The results:

Men: Semifinal: MEG, Bangalore 60 (Peter John 24, Tinu Joseph 13, Lloyd Antony 11) bt ICF, Chennai 77 (Tony Leslie16, Balaji 10).

League matches: Group A: Central Excise, Kochi 65 (Subash J. Shenoy 19, V. Vivek 18, Joseph John 13) bt Indian Army 65 (P.V. Rajeev 30). Group B: MEG 70 (Peter John 21, Tinu Joseph 19) bt Sathyabhama University, Chennai 48 (Shinumon Augustine 13, Atkinson 10).

Women: Semifinals: Central Railway, Mumbai 64 (Geo Blessen 16, K.S. Anu 11, Manisha Dange 10, S. Indu 10) bt South Western Railway, Hubli 45 (Chandralekha 16, K.K. Nimisha 13).

Veteran men: Semifinals: Kottayam Veterans 46 (Koshy Abraham 13, Idicula T. Paul 13) bt Regional Sports Centre, Kochi 40 (Salim 17, Paul George 12).

United Phosphorus Title Sponsor of Ramu Memorial this year -by Anil Kumar
Formidable Tamil Nadu Basketball Association (TNBA) will lead the men's challenge, while women's winners Southern Railway will defend their title, in the 24th United Phosphorous Ltd. All India Ramu Memorial Basketball Tournament that will be held from October 14 to 21, at the Indian Gymkhana, King's Circle, Matunga.
Challenging star-studded favourites TNBA will be last year's runners-up Indian Army, the formidable Central Excise & Customs (Kochi), Indian Navy, Vijaya Bank (Bangalore), South Central Railway (Secunderabad), Maharashtra State and Western Railway.
Among the women, Southern Railway will face the challenge of Chattisgarh, Southern Railway, South Central Railway (Bilaspur), Kerala State Electricity Board (KSEB), Western Railway and Central Railway.
The competition will feature a host of international / India stars including last year's men's 'Player of the Tournament' Sambhaji Kadam of Indian Army and women's 'Player of the Tournament' Geetu Anna Jose of Southern Railway who has featured in the Big V- League in Australia.
The league-cum-knock out competition, co-sponsored by Reliance Mutual Fund, will include a round robin league in the two pools of four teams each for men where the top two teams from each pool will qualify for the semi-finals.
Following the round robin league in the women's category that features six teams, the top two teams will qualify for the final.
The men's winners will receive the Ramu Memorial Rolling Trophy and Rs. 65,000, while the runners-up will receive the Dr. K. Muthukumar Memorial Trophy and Rs. 35,000.
The women's winners will receive the Kapila Khandvala Rolling Shield and Rs. 35,000, while the runners-up will earn Rs. 15,000.
In addition, there will be the 'Player of the Tournament' award in the Men's and Women's categories.
This year the tournament will be played on international standard Terraflex courts and will be held under floodlights in a specially erected stadium.
The organising committee also will be adding a professional touch while creating a special ambience to generate more enthusiasm and thrills among the spectators, in preparation of the 25th Silver Jubilee edition of the All India Ramu Memorial Basketball Tournament next year.
The committee also has decided FREE ENTRY to spectators especially to promote basketball among students and youth.
The semi-finals on October 20 and finals on October 21 will be broadcast live on All India Radio's FM Gold.
The Indian Gymkhana, which revived the All India Ramu Memorial Basketball Tournament last year, after a hiatus of 14 years, are celebrating their Platinum Jubilee (1932-2007) this year.
The All India Ramu Memorial Basketball Tournament is a prestigious tournament in the basketball calendar and attracts the cream of basketball teams from all over India and a galaxy of stars.

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KOREA

Sakers Meet KTF In Pusan -by Rick Ross

KTF will host LG Sakers for and exhibition game in Pusan,
Both Teams are without a win, KTF imports will see Sedric Webber (199-F-77, college: Charleston)
And Tyrone Washington (208-C/F-76, college: Mississippi St.) Match up Against Calvin Warner

(201-F/C-80, college: Jacksonville) (201-F/C-80, college: Jacksonville) & Blankson Odartey

(201-F/G-82, agency: Naiditch Entertainment, college: UNLV),

Blankson returns after a hamstring injury during the Championship game Of the 2007
Burnei Cup which saw LG Sakers defeat RP REALTORS of the PHILIPPEANS.

The Season starts in 2 weeks.

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KUWAIT

Jeryl Sasser In Kuwait To Play For Al-Arabi Club -by Sadik Abdullah
Jeryl Sasser, the newest import in Kuwait has officially arrived in Kuwait to play for Al-Arabi Club. Jeryl was met at the airport by Al Arabi Club GM and their other import, Jamal Holden (206-C-80, college: UALR). They were joined by Al Arabis newest coach as well, John Sneed.

With the addition of Jeryl Sasser, Al Arabi Club suddently becomes a powerhouse in Kuwait and has the ability to go up against any other team in Kuwait. Jeryl will bring his NBA experience to Kuwait and should get all the teams to change up their game plan when going up against Al Arabi. At 6'6 (198 CM), he is able to play the 1/2/3 and could cause great match up problems. Jeryl was the 22nd pick in the 1st round of the 2001 NBA draft to the Orlando Magic and played 75 games for them in 2003, averaging 2.6 ppg and 2.5 rpg.

Good luck Jeryl.

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MEXICO

Thursday action and Important changes in the LNBP -by Charles Elwes

Important changes in the LNBP , two teams have a new
citie to play , they are Correcaminos Matamoros ho would play
now in the citie of Nuevo Laredo Tamaulipas , the border citie
with Laredo Texas. The name of the team is yet to be determinaded
by the residents of Nuevo Laredo , the schedule game to play tonigth
will be re order in the future. The other team changing of city its

Correcaminos Reynosa , now they play in the city of Piedras Negras

Coahuila with has a sister city in the side of Texas with Eagle Pass , the

name of the team will be Bravos Piedras Negras - Eagle Pass and will play

saturday octuber 13 against the new team of Nuevo Laredo (ex Correcamionos

Matamoros) in the the Auditorio Santiago V. Gonzalez in Piedras Negras.

We wish good luck to , these two new squads in the league !.

The matches ho are the games to follow tonigth will be the game between

Lobos Grises Durango (8-2) VS Algodoneros Torreon(7-3) its a rivalry game

between these two teams. And another game will be between

Halcones XAlapa ( 10-0) vs Halconer Veracruz ( 8-2) these two teams have great

players ,great crowds ,great coaches so its going to be fun , the game you could

see it in TVC deportes tonigth 9 :30 PM ( central time ) of Mexico.

These two games are the games of the day.

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MONTENEGRO

Montenegrin Cup results -by Dragan Grbovic
ABS Primorje - Mogren 62 - 83 (16:18,10:22,15:20,21:23) ;
Budva - Jedinstvo 61 - 77 (21:12,16:26,8:21,21:23) ;
Niksic - Danilovgrad 84-78(24:22,21:17,14:17,25:22) ;
Studentski Centar - Primorje 69-79 (11:20,27:10,15:27,16:22) ;
Teodo - Ulcinj 64-88 (12:23,18:21,16:26,18:18) ;

Mogren Budva heavy defeated new first league face ABS Primorje,Budva was equal with Jedinstvo only in the first half; Niksic team shown a good play and deserved their win against Danilovgrad 84-78;Ulcinj as expected easy passed Teodo;best in the team of Primorje in their win against S.Centar was their recent signing Aleksandar Bogojevic (189-G-86) with 16 points.

1/8 Final of Montenegrin Cup - BC Niksic win against BC Danilovgrad 84-78 -by Dragan Scepanovic
In game 1/8 Final of Montenegrin Cup competition in city of Niksic BC Niksic win in game against BC Danilovgrad 84-74 (24-22,22-17,14-17,25-22).In First game in season 2007-2008 young basketball of BC Niksic show that will be good opponent to every one in MNT 1A Opportunity league. In game against BC Danilovgrad best player was Nemanja Vranjes (188-G/F-88) wit 29 points 3 rebounds, 4 assist and 4 still ball with index of 30.Goood game play Djurkovic Radoje with 8 points and 12 rebounds , 2 asist and 1 still ball and Miljan Vukotic with 16 points, 6 rebound. In Danilovgrad best was Borivoje Stanisic with 20 points, Nikola Razic score 18 points and Lazar Simonovic score 17 points. In next round of Montenegrin Cup competition BC Niksic will play with BC Ulcinj.

1/4 Final of Montenegrin Cup 2007/2008 -by Dragan Scepanovic
In 1/4 final game of Montengrin National cup competition 2007/2008 on November 29, 2007 wil play : in Podgorica BC BUDUCNOST vs BC JEDINSTVO B.Polje , in Cetinje BC LOVCEN vs ( BC S.CENTAR Podgorica-BC PRIMORJE H.Novi ), in Ulcinj BC ULCINJ vs BC NIKSIC and in Bar BC MORNAR vs BC MOGREN Budva

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NBA

NBA Transactions - Atlantic -by Paolo Comitti

ATLANTIC

BOSTON CELTICS
In
Ray Allen (Seattle), Brandon Wallace (FA), Gabe Pruitt* (Draft), Glen Davis* (Draft), Kevin Garnett (Minnesota), Scott Pollard (Cleveland), Eddie House (New Jersey), James Posey (Miami)

Out
Allan Ray (Roma), Wally Szczerbiak (Seattle), Delonte West (Seattle), Jeff Green (Seattle), Ryan Gomes (Minnesota), Gerald Green (Minnesota), Al Jefferson (Minnesota), Theo Ratliff (Minnesota), Sebastian Telfair (Minnesota)

NEW JERSEY NETS
In
Jamaal Magloire (Portland), Sean Williams (Draft), Robert Hite (Miami), Malik Allen (Chicago), Darrell Armstrong (Indiana)

Out
Mikki Moore (Sacramento), Hassan Adams (FA), Cliff Robinson (Retired)

NEW YORK KNICKS
In
Wilson Chandler (Draft), Demetris Nichols* (Draft), Zach Randolph (Portland), Fred Jones (Portland), Dan Dickau (Portland)

Out
Steve Francis (Houston), Channing Frye (Portland), Dan Dickau (FA)

PHILADELPHIA 76ERS
In
Thaddeus Young (Draft), Jason Smith (Draft), Derrick Byars* (Draft), Herbert Hill* (Draft), Calvin Booth (Washington), Reggie Evans (Denver)

Out
Joe Smith (Chicago), Steven Hunter (Denver), Bobby Jones (Denver)

TORONTO RAPTORS
In
Carlos Delfino (Detroit), Maceo Baston (Indiana), Jason Kapono (Miami), Jamario Moon (Albany Patroons), Giorgos Printezis* (Draft)

Out
Morris Peterson (New Orleans)

Wizards Center Thomas Out Indefinately -by Bryan Floyd
Washington Wizards center Etan Thomas will undergo open-heart surgery to repair an aortic valve leak today in an undisclosed Minnesota hospital, the team said in a statement yesterday.His condition has been described as potentially career threatening by two league sources. However, Dr. Ammar Bafi, a cardiac surgeon at Washington Hospital Center, said Thomas, 29, could return to full health and resume his playing career.Thomas' condition was discovered during a routine team physical at the start of training camp, which ended in Richmond on Sunday."This is going to set him back some, but it is not necessarily career threatening," Bafi said in a phone interview yesterday. "Once he goes through the operation and recovers from the operation, in a few months or a year later he should be able to get back to doing what he was doing a year before."

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NEW ZEALAND

Breakers gain the first win -by Eurobasket News
New Zealand Breakers - Townsville Breakers 98:97
The Breakers delivered in their third outing this season and clinched the first victory at the NBL tournament. However the start of the game did not look too promising for the hosts. Townsville Crocs used a tight defense to limit Kirk Penney (194-G-80, college: Wisconsin)'s shooting opportunities and New Zealand struggled for some time losing the first frame 18:31. The Breakers burst out with bunch of treys early in the second term to cut the deficit to 6 points. But a strong Townsville's defense still put the home side under the pressure and they trailed by 11 points at halftime 48:59. Some key three pointers late in the third stanza lifted the Breakers as close as 1 point entering the fourth frame 72:73. The initiative slipped away from the Crocs and soon Wayne Turner nailed a jumper to give the Breakers the lead. The game was close and the teams were tied with 30 seconds left in regulation. Phill Jones (196-G-74) got fouled with 6 seconds on the clock and sank one of two free throws. It gave the home side necessary advantage and they never gave it up.
New Zealand Breakers were led by Rick Rickert (210-F-83, college: Minnesota) with 23 points and 15 boards. Kirk Penney nailed 3/5 three pointers and finished with 23 points, while Phill Jones added 16 points in a win. Corey Williams (191-G-77, college: Alabama St.) notched game-high 26 points, pulled down 7 rebounds and dished out 6 assists for the Crocodiles. Daniel Egan (197-F-79) had 17 points in the 5th loss for Townsville.
New Zealand Breakers will next take on the Adelaide 36ers.

Breakers: Rick Rickert 23+15 boards, Kirk Penney 23, Phill Jones 16
Townsville: Corey Williams 26, Daniel Egan 17

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PHILIPPINES

The not so fighting Fighting Maroons -by May Arevalo

Correct me if I'm wrong, the University of the Philippines Fighting Maroons' record for this year's UAAP season is 0-15 (?)

(A big congratulations to the La Salle Green Archers and the University of the East Warriors!)

Anyway, a friend and I were discussing the possible reasons why the Maroons kept on breaking the hearts of their supporters and Alumni. The UP community is just waiting to fill up the Araneta Coliseum with the color maroon but that is going to be a long wait as they have yet to solve mathematically, scientifically, or philosophically...the question/problem: Why is the Araneta Coliseum nicer to the green, red, yellow, and blue colors?

It is not such a bad year for the Maroons though, as the UP Pep Squad reclaimed the cheer dance title, also one of the Maroons former players hit it big with the Big Brother show and even went to Slovenia (a basketball playing country and Olympic Qualifyer) and became a little bit famous..but okay those are beside basketball.

So what is the problem with the UP basketball boys?

1) Academics. The requirements to excel or atleast keep afloat in such an intellectual community is steep.

2) Recruitment. The Maroons this year lack height. It looked as if all of them were playing the same position. Guard.

3) Coach and Coaching Staff. The players take on the character and strength of the coach right? The players rely on the coach and his staff for plays, strategies, adjustments, and morale boost.

4) Budget. Of course the State U team is always poor.

One of these days I would drop by the Maroons camp and inquire. Speculating is bad...or somebody from the UP basketball community could enlighten me?

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POLAND

Anwil Wloclawek achieved their first trophy in the 2007/2008 season. -by Michal Falkowski
Anwil Wloclawek edged Prokom Trefl Sopot in the Supercup game 103-100 after extra time.

The game took part in Anwil's “Hala Mistrzow” (“Champion's Court”). The audience held about 3.000 people. The fans of Anwil expected that the new players could confront with Prokom's big stars like Milan Gurovic, Travis Best, Ruben Wolkowyski, Dajuan Wagner. For The Prokom's supporters it may have been an answer of the questions is Prokom able to dominate Polish League.

Ales Pipan 's charges began the game badly. Best made the penetration through the basket tree times, one time with an additional free throw and Anwil was losing 0-7. Anwil showed they are unable to achieve a good result. When Anwil tried to make a draw by scoring some points, Prokom Trefl strenghtened the defence and focused on the Gurovic's and van den Spiegel's (10 pts. and 9 rebs. in this part of game) abilities. The first quarter ended 16-26 for visitors when Gerrod Henderson scored for three with a yelper.

The second quarter brought no changes. Anwil was more determined to make a good result but Prokom's players leading by very smart-playing Best recoiled instantly. Anwil won this quarter by one point 15-14 but they were still losing 31-40.

The beginning of the third quarter started very well for Eugeniusz Kijewski's charges. Best scored two points, Wagner added next two while Gurovic scored behing the 6.25 m line. The advantage increased to 16 points 31-47. In this moment the headcoach Pipan took a time-out and later made a substitution. Alex Dunn was replaced by Patrick Okafor. Nigerian-born player scored 8 points in a row fighting with dominating until this moment van den Spiegel very bravely. The scoreboard showed 39-50 before some minutes until the end of quarter. In the next actions Lukasz Koszarek showed his shooting-skills scoring some points. Henderson added the three-points buzzer equally with a yelper signal. Anwil decreased the advantage to 5 points 62-67.

The fourth quarter was opened by Zbigniew Bialek - at first he scored two points, and after Gurovic's three point answer, he answered the same. When Donatas Slanina did the same, Koszarek scored behind the line twice. The scoreboard showed a draw - 73-73 when Kijewski asked for time-out. After the break Bialek made a steal and finished by dunk, next he made a lay-up after Henderson passed him. Anwil was leading 77-73. Best scored for three but in the next moment Koszarek scored 5 points in a row. Until the end of a quarter there were a battle lasting punch by punch. Henderson made only 2-of-4 free throws and Gurovic scored for three equally with a yelper - 88-88 and we had got an extra time.

The extra time had a great opener: from Anwil's side Bialek scored behind the line three times, from Prokom's - only Wagner once but Gurovic and van den Spiegel scored 4 other points. The result was 97-95. The Prokom focused their defence on Koszarek who was scoring in the third and fourth quarters very well. It was a great chance to Henderson who scored 4-of-4 free throws at the end - 103-100. The last action was predated by a time-out. Best passed a ball to Gurovic, he made a fake…threw…but the ball bounced out of the rim. Hala Mistrzow exploded! Anwil, playing very smart basketball in the second half of a game, won after extra time defeating the big stars from Sopot 103-100.

Home team achieved a winner especially thanks to trio: Henderson (24 pts., 10 rebs.), Koszarek (24 pts., 5x3, 11 as.) and Bialek (23 pts., 5x3, 9 rebs.). An amazing game was performed by Gurovic - Serbian superstar scored 36 pts (6x3) who was supported by a Belgian center van den Spiegel - 23 pts and 16 rebs.

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PORTUGAL

Gabe Martin get cut by Ginasio -by Bruno Baltazar
Ginasio cuted Gabe Martin (196-G-82, agency: Rasmussen Services, college: Liberty) in their roster the recent american player they had for this upcoming season,he didn´t showed the basketball the team was looking and needed to compete in LIGA UZO.

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PUERTO RICO

"Bimbo" Carmona signs for Carolina -by Alessandro Fontana

"Bimbo" Alejandro Carmona (194-G/F-83, agency: Next Level) signs for Los Gigantes de Carolina. Alejandro Carmona played last year for Vaqueros Bayamon with 19,7pts (55% 2pts, 33% 3pts, 81% FT) 4,9 rebs and 2,2 assts per game. He is a great trade for Carolina. He was one of the best scorer of BSN 2007. Carolina's fans can dream with him and his intensity.
The coach George Torres comes back to Puerto Rico. He leaves the mexican team Fuerza Regia. Fuerza Regia has a 5-5 standing in the Mexican League.

In America, Jose Juan Barea (181-G-84, agency: KMG Sports Management, college: Northeastern) and his Dallas Mavericks won against San Antonio 88-67. For Barea 13 pts in 14 minutes. Guillermo Diaz (188-G-85, college: Miami, FL) scored 16pts in 18 minutes in L.A. Clippers- Denver Nuggets 107-119. He played a great game with 2 spectacular assists.
Carlos Arroyo (188-G-79, agency: Interperformances, college: Florida Intern.) scored 10pts, 3rebs and 1 steal in Orlando Mgic- Charlotte Bobcats 123-99
A. Fontana

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RUSSIA

The favorites got the wins -by Eurobasket News

Three more games were played last night in Russian Superleague and only in one of them the visitors were able to take the win. As it was expected the favorites got the next victories.

Khimky (Moscow region) had a road win over University-Ugra (Surgut) 79:86. Only due to the second half the visitors could take the win. Maciej Lampe (210-C-85, agency: Edge Sports) and Teemu Rannikko (189-G-80) both top-scored with 18 points for the winners. MILOSSERDOV Aleksandre nailed 17 in the losing effort.

Triumph triumphed over Ural-Great (Perm) 101:81. A great first quarter and the last helped the hosts to take the second win in the championship. Ognjen Askrabic (207-C/F-79) netted 22 points, being the top-scorer in the game. SLOKAR Uros supported him and the team with 15 points. KOLEVICH Ivan finished the game with 18 points in defeat.

Unics smashed another team, that time from Samara. Even though the team lost the opening quarter, they reinforced later in the game. A 37:11 is a provement to go for another victory in the Superleague. SАVАNOVIC Dusko top-scored for the winners with 32 points. Joseph Forte (193-G-81, agency: Megasport, college: N.Carolina)scored 22, while SERGEEV Pavel added 14. Andrei Trushkin (207-C/F-81) nailed 20 points in the losing effort.

University-Ugra (Surgut) - Khimky (Moscow region) 79 : 86 (24:20, 16:21, 19:21, 20:24)
University-Ugra (Surgut): MILOSSERDOV Aleksandre 17, TSYPATCHEV Andrey 16
Khimky (Moscow region): Maciej Lampe18, Teemu Rannikko 18

Triumph - Ural-Great (Perm) 101 : 81(29:16, 23:19, 25:30, 24:16)
Triumph: Ognjen Askrabic 22, SLOKAR Uros 15
Ural-Great (Perm): KOLEVICH Ivan 18, Wright Brindli 15

UNICS (Kazan) - CSK VVS-Samara (Samara) 101 : 68 (17:24, 25:12, 22:21, 37:11)
UNICS (Kazan): SАVАNOVIC Dusko 32, Joseph Forte 22, SERGEEV Pavel 14
CSK VVS-Samara (Samara): Andrei Trushkin 20, PERRI Marki 14

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SCOTLAND

SAMG Verve Scottish Rocks 110-117 Newcastle Eagles (2OT) -by Eurobasket News

The first 'Battle of the Border' lived up to its billing as big rivals the SAMG Verve Scottish Rocks and the Newcastle Eagles fought out an epic 110-117 double overtime game, from which the Eagles prevailed at the Braehead Arena.

It was GB international Richard Midgley (189-G-83, college: California) who won the game for the Eagles as, with the teams tied at 110, he netted the last 7 points of the game to clinch it.

It was Great Britain's point guard who led the scoring with 34 points, he also had 9 rebounds, and was supported by 26 points from Jeremy Hyatt. The Rocks were led by 23 from Robert Yanders (180-G-79, college: Missouri St.).

Prior to Richard Midgley's heroics, the teams had scrapped their way to 48-50 at the end of the second quarter. Neither side could establish a lead as the Rocks led by 6 at 29-23 before the Eagles turned the game on its head and took a 39-44 advantage.

The Eagles pushed it out to 58-65 midway through the third stanza, but a 7-2 start to the fourth saw the Rocks regain the lead at 79-78. The Eagles responded with a 10-4 surge to go up 83-88 and stayed in front until the final seconds. With 2.3 seconds left on the clock, Maurice Hampton (188-G-84, college: Austin Peay St.) made the three-pointer that tied the game at 95 and forced the first overtime period.

The Rocks thought they had won it after Robert Yanders made a triple and Julius Joseph made two free-throws to give them a 102-99 lead with 6 seconds remaining. However, veteran shooting guard Jeremy Hyatt emulated Maurice Hampton's efforts by netting a crucial triple on the buzzer to knot the teams at 102 and send the game into a second overtime.

Top Scorers:

Rocks: Robert Yanders 23, Maurice Hampton 22, Joseph/Wohlers 21
Eagles: Richard Midgley 34, Hyatt 26, Bridge 14

The teams traded baskets up to 110-110 before Richard Midgley took control.
Courtesy of:http://www.bbl.org.uk/

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SERBIA

Adriatic league: Crvena Zvezda alone on the top after 3 rounds -by Dragan Jankovski

DNP: Pavkovic.

Market news -by Dragan Jankovski
Coach Vladimir Bosnjak agreed terms and signed one year deal with BC Quatar Club, from Quatar. Bosnjak in the past used to work in Iran, Lybia, Kuwait and Bahrein.

Gorjan Latific (192-G-77, agency: Interperformances, college: Oklahoma City) moved to Cypriot team Intercollege Etha Engomis. He signed one year contract with the team and joined Davorin Dalipagic who also moved to Etha couple of days ago.

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SEYCHELLES

Premium Cobras stay in title race -by Carlos Pereira
PREMIUM COBRAS maintained their league title hopes alive after collecting two vital points in their 79-52 victory over Cascade Bullets on Tuesday at Victoria Gymnasium.
Following the victory, the Cobras now top the league table with 18 points from 10 matches.
In Tuesday's encounter, Premium Cobras dominated their opponents all throughout the match, thus outscoring them in all four quarters.
After winning the first and second quarters 21-11 and 15-10 respectively, Premium Cobras asserted their dominance in the third and fourth quarters which they won 20-14 and 23-17 to secure the match.
Following the defeat - their eighth in 10 games - Cascade Bullets are now occupying seventh spot on the table with 12 points, one more than the total of Pointe Larue Falcons who are carrying the weight of the table with 11 after 10 matches - a win and nine defeats.

Reuben Kolawole was Premium Cobras' top scorer with 31 points, while with 16 points Dan Come led the scoring for the Bullets.R. D.

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SLOVAK REP.

Svit improves to 4-0, Handlova wishes to win at least one -by Eurobasket News
Round 4 brought another win for the leader, Svit, that stays aloe now on top. Inter and Nova Ves follow it with 3-1, while Handlova tries hard to get the first win, but no luck for now.

Chemosvit Svit overcame BK CASTA SPU Nitra in a road 71:76. After the first half the hosts led 5 points and even had 1 points advantage before the last quarter. For many of them it became clear that Svit would not take another win, however the team won the last quarter 23:17 and the game itself. Klaric paced the win with 25 points. Bilik scored 20, while Laco and Sedmak netted 10 points each. Hrvoje Gasparac (189-G-84, college: S.Nevada CC) and Jankovic produced 14 points each for the hosts.

Inter Bratislava beat Slavia TU Kosice 67:52. A 20:11 spurt in the opening quarter led to the happy end. Novak and Ivan made sure the hosts go to 3-1, nailed 18 points each. Richard Misinsky (186-G-80) finished the game with 21 points in defeat.

Nova Ves won over MBK Rieker Komarno 81:72 in the game for the third win for both teams. The latter however did not reach that margin and would try to do it next time. Pesta and David Demecko (192-G/F-81) top-scored for the hosts with 19 points.

Slovintegra Levice - ESO CLUB Lucenec 70:94 (18:24, 19:26, 15:27, 18:17)
Slovintegra Levice: Mladen Gambiroza (206-C-75, agency: Laszlo Vinko Services) 19, Ristanovic 14, Klein 9
ESO CLUB Lucenec: Bicvic 19, Praznovsky 18, Sykora 14

BK CASTA SPU Nitra - Chemosvit Svit 71:76 (20:16, 21:20, 13:17, 17:23)
BK CASTA SPU Nitra: Hrvoje Gasparac 14, Jankovic 14, Seman 13
Chemosvit Svit: Klaric 25, Bilik 20, Laco 10, Sedmak 10

Inter Bratislava - Slavia TU Kosice 67:52 (20:11, 16:15, 18:10, 13:16)
Inter Bratislava: Novak 18, Ivan 18, Futo 12
Slavia TU Kosice: Richard Misinsky 21, Baťka 16, Krasznai 8

Nova Ves - MBK Rieker Komarno 81:72 (20:15, 18:13, 21:27, 22:17)
Nova Ves: Pesta 19, David Demecko 19, Hovanak 15
MBK Rieker Komarno: Igor Majoros (200-F-80, agency: Promotex, college: SW Baptist) 31, Fapso 11

HBK Prievidza - MBK Pezinok 55:68 (8:26, 14:21, 16:5, 17:16)
HBK Prievidza: Ivica Blagojevic (205-C-74, agency: Global Sports Plaza) 18, Tanaskovic 16, Vucic 9
MBK Pezinok: Dusan Snopko (195-G-75) 21, Kozlik 20, Micuda 12

MBK Handlova - BK Dolny Kubin 56:59 (19:10, 18:20, 11:9, 8:20)
MBK Handlova: Milosevic 16, Jaroslav Stefanik (193-F-76) 15
BK Dolny Kubin: Filip Bacic (194-G-83) 19, Findura 17

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SWEDEN

Rudy Mbemba signs with Solna Vikings -by Frankie Afzelius
Rudy Mbemba (181-G-87) has decided to sign with Solna Vikings. The athletic point guard that is predicted to be the first Swedish NBA draft pick has returned to Sweden after spending the last three seasons playing around Europe, lastly in the German league for Frankfurt Skyliners. Coach Pekka Salminen says about Rudy Mbemba: "Rudy is an amazing player that has clear NBA potential and we are very happy that he has chosen to play for Solna Vikings. He will be a crowd favorite and one of the Leagues best point guards"

Enjebo rehabs - Barton coaches -by Frankie Afzelius
With the third round of the Basketligan being played in Solna, Charles Barton will pace the sidlines to lead his team in the attempt to get another win for Gothia. Head Coach Jan Enjebo has gone under the knife to fix his knee and will be sidelined for the next couple of weeks. During his absence Barton will be holding on to the rains and starting it out it will be against the team that he coach to a championship some years ago.

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TANZANIA

RBA launch next week -by Carlos Pereira
By Oforo Vallentine

This year`s Kili RBA league will be launched next week after the Eid El Fitr celebrations. Basketball Dar es Salaam (BD) director Mbaga Mwambona said yesterday that the kick off date of the championships which will last for three months would be revealed at the launch.
He said the championships would attract 14 men and six women teams.
Mwambona said winners in the men`s category will be awarded 3.4m/- while 2m/- will go to winners of women`s teams.
JKT Ruvu are defending champions in both categories.

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U.KINGDOM

Eagles edge Rocks in 2OT Thriller -by Alain Reid
The mid-table battle between the SAMG Verve Scottish Rocks and the Newcastle Eagles finished in a competitive and exciting double overtime game. Newcastle pulled away in the second overtime period to capture the victory 117-110.

Newcastle was led by Richard Midgley with 34 points, including 7 in the second overtime period. Jeremy Hyatt had 26 for the Eagles, and Bridge dropped 14.

The Rocks effort should not go unnoticed, as they fought valiantly throughout the game in front of a passionate home crowd. The Rocks were led by Rob Yanders with 23 points.

Both teams return to action this Saturday night, with Newcastle visiting Leicester and the Rocks paying a visit to the always-passionate Worcester faithful.

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U.S.VIRGIN ISL.

Q &A with Jameel Heywood -by David Edole
Virgin Islands national team forward Jameel Heywood (198-F-77, agency: Paris Global Sports, college: Oklahoma) sat down with Lanus Athletic Club and did an interview in spanish.. I translated it for your viewing pleasure...

-Why did you return to Argentina?
- I am happy to be here. I want to help Lanus rise from TNA to Liga A and to have a good season. I had many options to play in the National League (Liga A) but I feel comfortable here and did not want to play on a bad team, besides I could do great things in Lanus.

-With so many years played in South America, do you speak spanish?

-Before I spoke a little but I have been away for a year and a half and had no reason to express myself in Spanish. So, I have lost it all.

-Where do you believe Lanus can end the year?

-We are going to have a good season and I am very anxious to be playing again. I have fresh legs after sitting out. So, I feel renewed and very hungry for success.

-Are you single?

-As strange as this may sound, I have a wife and two children in New York. It is complicate but this is my work and we work thought it.

-Do you like the team?

-I really like the coaching staff. I feel very comfortable in the system and they allow me to be free and add a little flavor.

-Of all the places that you have played which is the best?

-They have been many, but Puerto Rico, Venezuela and Cordoba stands out. I love the life in the Mediterranean province.

-Did you play in the NCAA? How was that experience?

-I was lucky to attend the University of Oklahoma. I had a good career there.

-Why did you decided to come to Latin America and not remain in the United States?

-The team was not considered filled with NBA prospects. So, I had to look at other opportunities that were given by the countries listed above, all in this continent.

-What are your activities outside of basketball?

-I surf the internet. I speak with my family, play video games on the Play Station and I take advantage of resting.

-Do you see Tim Duncan in your country?

-He is a good person and above all an excellent player but does not talk a lot.

-You played basketball in Bronx, why is it so dangerous?

-It can be perceived as dangerous but I live in a very tranquil area.

-You got many offers from Europeans team. What motivated you to select Argentina?

-I had many offerings in the old world, but their season lasts10 months. That could be physically draining and I want to see my kids. While here the tournament last 6 months and is very economically.

PRO REPORT -by David Edole
Spain
Cuthbert Victor (196-G-83, college: Murray St.) returned to Spain after returning to the Virgin Islands to tend to personal issues. In his return, CAI Zaragoza defeated Tenerife Rural, 96-70, in Spanish Basketball League (LEB). Victor was his old efficient self and tallied 12 points, three rebounds and three assists.
All was not well with Victor and Zaragoza as they were upset by Bruesa, 83-93, in his second game back. Victor came off the bench and supplied eight points, three rebounds and three steals.
Victor had some down time and decided to participate in a basketball clinic at the sports complex of the School Christ King (Escolapios) in the neighborhood of San Gregorio. Victor along with teammate Ivan Garcia actively instructed about one hundred boys in exercises for an hour and took photos and signed autographs.
Zaragoza is one of the favorites to win the LEB Gold Division and advancing to ACB, record now stands at 2-1 on the season.

Germany
Edwin, a reality TV star?
Jason Edwin (196-G/F-81, agency: Scorers 1st Sportmanagement, college: Kent St.) probably knows what a reality TV star feels like when a camera follows their every move. Edwin was surprised when WDR selected him for a TV show that follows a basketball player for a day between two practice sessions. WDR wanted to show the public what players do during and after practice.
“It probably was the coolest thing I have done,” said Edwin. “They (TV crew) came to the apartment and watch us (members of the team) play video games. They followed us into the city as we walked around.”
The TV special was aired today (Thursday) on the WDR.
By the way, Paderborn Baskets (0-1) will try pick up their first win when they take on Brose Baskets Bamberg Friday night.

Belgium
Josiah James (201-F-81, agency: Octagon, college: Birmingham Souther) reups with Voo Verviers Pepinster for a second season. Pepinster (0-2) is winless in Ethias League but James is playing well. James had 11 points and nine boards in a loss to Spirou Charleroi, 74-82, on the road. The hosts led 46-36 at halftime, but didn't really put it away till the final minutes when back-to-back Justin Hamilton layups and a Tremmell Darden jumper made it 76-66 and staved off Pepinster's last charge. play Dexia Mons-Hainaut (0-1)

Poland
Omari Peterkin (203-F/C-83, college: Notre Dame) will be testing with Gdynia Vikings of the Polish Basketball League (PLK). The Vikings have tested several players but none had what coach Andrzej Kwapiszewski is looking for. The team hopes Peterkin can be the inside presence that team is lacking. Peterkin is a graduate of Boston University and was named to the Conference third team after averaging eight points and 6.4 rebounds.

Argentina
Jameel Heywood (198-F-77, agency: Paris Global Sports, college: Oklahoma) seems to love South America and the Latino culture. Over the course of his career he has played in Uruguay, Chile, Argentina, Puerto Rico Venezuela, and now in Argentina for the third time. Heywood signed with Lanus Athletic Club of the TNA a couple of weeks ago. Heywood played for two teams in Argentina in the past. He suited up for Central Entrerriano in 2004 (24.3 pts. and 6.2 rbs.) and Atenas en el 2005/06 (10.2 pts. and 4 rbs.). Lanus season begins tomorrow (Friday) when they take on Regatas de San Nicolas.

Japan
Carl Thomas (200-F-76, college: Charleston) and the Hitachi Sunrockers lost to Aisin, 57-67, Thursday night in the inaugural game of the 2007-08 JBL season at Tokyo Metropolitan Gymnasium. Thomas finished with a double-double of 14 points and 15 rebounds.

Bahrain
Kitwana Rhymer (208-C-78, agency: Paris Global Sports, college: Massachusetts) has jumped on a red eye and is headed to Bahrain. Many Middle East teams have been throwing money around trying to attract big name players to the region.

Raja Bell excited for new season -by David Edole

Jerry Brown, Tribune

Many sides of Raja Bell have been on display in his first two years with the Suns. The most common face is the fun-loving, harmonious Bell — singing in the locker room, poking fun at teammates or simply entertaining himself with a joke or impression.

Read Jerry Brown's blog, Rim Shots

Fans have also seen the intense Raja, spanning the gamut from his battles with Kobe Bryant to his clutch playoff 3-pointers.

It reveals his burning desire to win, to prove himself, to see how far he can push an NBA career that at one point appeared as if it might never happen. Usually leading in a positive direction, at times it has driven him over the edge.

But during last year's Western Conference semifinal series loss to San Antonio, a different Bell, an exasperated Bell, was seen. The NBA's regular season co-leader in 3-pointers made, Bell was constantly shadowed and cornered by a Spurs defense determined to choke off options for running mate Steve Nash.

Reduced to a decoy on the offensive end, Bell never found a groove on either end. His frustrations led to negative energy. Normally open and affable with the media, he had all but stopped talking to the press by Game 3.

As the series slipped away, the tension mounted.

“I thought it was just too easy for the Spurs to take things away from us, things that we'd counted on all year,” Bell said. “It wasn't an issue with the offense. It wasn't that I felt left out … I was just in a bit of a lull, and what they did made it hard to get out of it.

“If teams take me out of the offense and we win by 20 points — hey, no problem, we usually have plenty of other things clicking. But on the nights we're getting beat, especially in that situation, I'm going to be frustrated because I want to do more.”

Also bothered by a knee injury that required arthroscopic surgery over the summer, Bell has returned for 2007-08 — which kicks off tonight with the preseason opener in Sacramento — with a renewed energy.

Bell is excited that with Grant Hill in the starting lineup, the Suns have upgraded their talent, skill and basketball IQ.

“I think we addressed a need and brought in a piece we might have been missing,” he said.

“First there is Grant the person and the professional. Then you add another guy who can slash, create off the dribble and make plays to set up other people. To add a player like that to this group as a free agent was a major acquisition.”

Bell is also pleased that the offense will feature a mixture of the styles the Suns have run the last two years — one with Amare Stoudemire, one without — might help counteract the extra attention some teams pay to the perimeter shooters.

“I have complete faith in what Mike (D'Antoni) and the other (coaches) do with the offense, and that we can counteract some things,” Bell said. “We're making adjustments that will work against certain teams. It will help get me out of the corners a bit and get some chances running around the court.

“But there are also nights when I'll get face-guarded by Kobe or (Bruce) Bowen and I'll trust that our four guys are better than their four guys. And when you look at our lineup, I like our chances.”

The 31-year-old Bell played nearly 6,000 minutes over the past two seasons — only Shawn Marion played more among Suns.

And while shaving a few minutes a night off his workload might make sense over the long NBA season, Bell knows himself too well to say he's a proponent of more rest.

“I can say today, in camp, that it would be good to sit another two or three minutes a night. That's easy,” he said.

“But sitting on that bench itching to go and looking down at Mike … I'm not great at waiting my turn sometimes.”

Suns at Kings
What: NBA preseason opener for Phoenix
When: 7 p.m. today
Where: Arco Arena, Sacramento

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ULEB CUP

Introducing the only portuguese team in ULEB CUP - OVARENSE -by Bruno Baltazar
In a new season with more teams in ULEB CUP this sure will bring new countrys ,new players and new competitive level of game.
Ovarense is the portuguese champion for the last 2 season dominating for completly their home league ,it´s the team with more money in Portugal,has the same roster and just updated 1 player for this season ,they know how to play like a team ,they allready won this season the first competition in Portugal named Torneio dos Campeoes and are competiting to try to win everything ,at a european level they don´t have allot of experience with their roster but in the paster with other players they was in:
2001-2002: Korac Cup: took 3rd place (2-4) in Group C
2002-2003: FIBA Champions Cup: took 4th place (4-5) in Group B of West Conference
2003-2004: FIBA Europe Cup: took 1st position (4-2) in Group B of West Conference: lost to Queluz in conference semifinals
2004-2005: ULEB Cup: took 6th place (0-10) in Group E
FIBA Europe Cup West Conference Semifinals -04

they sure have the portuguese coach with more tittles Luis Magalhaes,4 americans with great quality ,the best quality in the portuguese competiton-Ben Reed his a incredible fighter,brings enerigy and do great plays,Greg Stempin this guy is very atheletic you might not notice his out there but in the end he always put his numbers,Graham Brown it´s the new player on the team ,did a great season in Portugal and in the glass he a pure fighter ,grabbs many rebounds ,good defense player ,in the offense game don´t forget about him,Cordell Henry this guys has a fast game at PG,loves to penetrate the crowd love him ,very intense aswell and at this moment the dangerous player on the team,on the portuguese level they have the portuguese center we all saw at European-Elvis Evora (205-C-78, agency: Global Sports Plaza) ,what a great center he is ,can do a little of everything and in Europe he will wanna prove what he did in the European is what he always do.
On the bench they always can rotate the team as they has deep bench with players ready to prove their quality-Nuno Cortez the young center,Nuno Manarte ,the experience PG always dangerous on the assist side,Miguel Miranda,Rui Mota ,Joao Abreu,Fernando Neves look at his 3 point shots,Andre Pinto.

This team is ready to show in Europe what they do in Portuguese competition and might be a dangerous team for everyone ,so it´s not a surprirese if they shock the world of basketball.

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URUGUAY

Defensor and Welcome maintain the second position -by Hector Lopez
Defensor Sporting beat Soriano 85-69 and Welcome 115-111 Aguada, after two overtime, and bot winners maintained the second position for the Uruguan League, one point behind the leader, Bigua.
The results f the only two games played were:
Defensor Sporting 85 - Diego Castrillon (199-F-75) 30 David Jackson (196-G-82, college: Penn St.) 23, Nathan Mielke (210-F-81, college: Wisc.-Milwaukee) 9
Soriano 69 - Jamal Johnson (201-C-81, college: Clayton St.) 14, Daryl Rufus (207-C-82, college: Fayetteville St.) 13
- - -
Welcome 115 - Kevin Nelson (192-G-84, agency: Strategic Sports, college: Park) 20 Brandon Voorhees (201-G/F, agency: Strategic Sports, college: Park) 14
Union Atletica 111 - Rodrigo Riera (184-G-72) 35 Mark Flavin (211-F/C-82, college: Maine) 13 Dainmon Gonner (198-F-80, college: SE Missouri St.) 25

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VENEZUELA

LNB 2007 - Week 8: Duros get closer to Macizos, Delfines continues to loose, Warao surprises Pescadores -by Francisco Vega

Duros de Lara got a vital victory over Lideres de Yaracuy at home and took advantage of Macizos de Guayana's defeat against Estudiantes de Guarico to get closer to them in the LNB's fight for first place. Meanwhile, Pescadores de Sucre were surprised away by Warao de Tucupita and Delfines de Miranda continues unable to win, since they were defeated in the first of two matches by Graneros de Portuguesa.

Duros de Lara 77 - Lideres de Yaracuy 68

Napoleon Rodriguez Gymnasium - Barquisimeto, Lara

Quarter by quarter
DUR: 15+24+17+21= 77
LID: 10+18+19+21= 68

Scorers
LID: Demetric Shaw (191-G-78) 25 points, Kervis Ramirez (190-G-78) 13 points, Carlos Morris (194-F-75) 11 points, Alejandro Barrios (205-F-79) 9 points

DUR: Carlos Cedeno (193-G/F-85) 20 points, Kevin Palacios (203-F/C-84) 16 points, Kenji Urdaneta (188-G-85) 15 points, Juan Herrera (197-F-81) 9 points

Estudiantes de Guarico 107 - Macizos de Guayana 100

Roger Ramos Gymnasium - San Juan de los Morros, Guarico

Quarter by quarter
EST: 26+24+23+34= 107
MAC: 22+26+20+32= 100

Scorers

EST: Leonardo Cappare (186-G-80) 22 points, Alejandro Flores (201-F) 17 points, Deivis Aranguren (192-F-85) 17 points

MAC: Kervin Bracho (204-F/C-78) 21 points, Axier Sucre (198-F-78) 19 points

Graneros de Portuguesa 89 - Delfines de Miranda 82

Nicolas Ojeda Parra Gymnasium - San Felipe, Yaracuy

Quarter by quarter
GRA: 15+29+20+25= 89
DEL: 20+14+26+22= 82

Scorers
DEL: Alex Quiroz (185-G-75) 23 points, Diego Guevara (184-G-77) 22 points

GRA: Jose Mora (188-G-73) 17 points, John Jackson (201-F-74) 15 points

Warao de Tucupita 107 - Pescadores de Sucre 84

Municipal Gymnasium - Tucupita, Delta Amacuro

Quarter by quarter (Not provided)
WAR: X+X+X+X= 107
PES: X+X+X+X= 84

Scorers
PES: Luis Bethelmi (200-C-86) 19 points, John A. Thomas (198-G/F-82) 15 points

WAR: Derale Wilson (197-F-77) 20 points, Manuel Berroteran (185-G-80) 16 points, Marlon Patino (205-F-80) 16 points

Venezuelans in Foreign Leagues Round-Up -by Francisco Vega

The following is a short round-up of information on the Venezuelan players currently hired in foreign countries:

Oscar Torres (195-F/G-76) (UPIM Fortitudo Bologna, Serie A, Italy)

Scored 4 points and supported with 4 assists in 20 minutes as a starter in his last game against Legea Scafati, which he lost 80-73 as visitor. He hasn't been able to leave behind trouble with his right knee, but has prooved to be a vital part of his new team, after sharing last season action among BC Khimki of Moscow (Russia) and CSKA Moscow (Russia)

Hector Romero (202-F-80) (Legea Scafati, Serie A, Italy)

Netted 16 points and grabbed 13 rebounds in his best game so far, to help Legea defeat UPIM Fortitudo Bologna 80-73.

Pablo Machado (207-C-77) (Estructuras Torrevieja, LEB Bronze, Spain)

Scored 6 points and grabbed 5 rebounds in the most recent presentation of his team, a victory over Habitacle Badajoz, 86-73.

Miguel Angel Marriaga (207-C-84) (CASA Ted Ankara, Turkey)

Had to return to Venezuela and was unable to start the season's Cup and League in Turkey due to a right foot injury that will be checked by the doctors of the Senior National Team.

Hernan Salcedo (198-F-80) (Angeles de Puebla, LNBP, Mexico)

Scored 28 points but couldn't avoid another defeat of his time, this time 104-95 against the undefeated Halcones de Xalapa.

Jesus Urbina (201-F-84) (George Mason Patriots, NCAA I, United States)

Decided not to play his final season in the NCAA with George Mason, where he already got his degree in Communications, and will pursue a career in Spain.

Greivis Vasquez (196-G-87) (Maryland Terrapins, NCAA I, United States)

Is awaiting the beginning of the 2008-2009 season and looks confirmed as the team's regular point guard.

David Cubillan (185-G-87) (Marquette Golden Eagles, NCAA I, United States)

Played preseason matches in Canada with Marquette and looks for a second season as the sixth man and long distance shooter.

Luis Julio (199-F-80), Nilsson Carabali (198-G/F-76) and Jorge Leon (180-G-82) (Arrieros de Antioquia, Saludcoop Cup, Colombia)

Are up 2-0 in their playoffs series against Piratas de Bogota. Julio is the starting power forward, Carabali comes off the bench to help in defense and rebounds and Leon is the sixth man and is enjoying a productive season from the perimeter.

Juan Manaure (190-G-79) (Piratas de Bogota, Saludcoop Cup, Colombia)

Manaure is in his second international experience after playing high school basketball in the United States. He's part of the reserve.

Cruz Salcedo (190-G-74) and Enielsen Guevara (204-F/C-81) (Bucaros de Santander, Saludcoop Cup, Colombia)

Salcedo and Guevara are looking for their second straight championship title with Bucaros, the first one being one of the main weapons from the long range and the second one as a tough rebounder in the paint. They're 2-0 up in the semifinals over Soles de San Andres.

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VIETNAM

Vietnam National Basketball Championship to allow foreign players -by Hector Santos
Foreign basketball players have been allowed to compete in the second round of the National Basketball Championship kicking off in the southern coastal province of Binh Thuan.

The Vietnam Basketball Federation made the decision to help teams strengthen their squads competing in the championship this year by recruiting foreign players.

According to the organising committee, seven foreign players from the Philippines, China and Mongolia will compete in the jerseys of Can Tho, HCM City and Joton for the second round.

The Vietnam Basketball Federation (VBF) general secretary, Nguyen Quoc Quan, said teams can now sign up to four foreign players and assign them on court at any given time.

"Contracting foreign players will make the league more attractive because they will create better competition between domestic and foreign players. Vietnamese players will also learn from the skills and experiences of imported basketballers." Quan said.

"The federation has an open policy that allows all teams to recruit more top foreign players at any time during the championship. The federation intends to increase the quality of the sport in Vietnam through the policy," he added.

Last year, the number of foreign basketballers was limited to the national championship.

However, the general secretary also warned that all teams have to find good quality players for their squads and find the right balance between foreign and local players.

Last year, the Mekong Delta team Soc Trang won the championship with local stars including trio Na Ri and Trieu Khanh, Minh Luyen.

"Meanwhile, HCM City, who recruited a foreign coach last year, will have Allan Evangelista (191-F) of the Philippines in their team, which they hope to avenge Soc Trang at the championship this year.

The annual nationwide championship will have eight men and four women's teams competing in a round-robin tournament over two rounds for the title.

Basketball has not yet developed as a professional sport like football or volleyball in Vietnam. Vietnam's national amateurs are sixth in the Southeast Asia region and have not attracted sponsors to fund the future development of the sport. Only HCM City, Soc Trang and Air Defence and Air Force have training centres for national squad players.

Vietnam Men's basketball team will not participate in SEA Games due to lack of funding -by Hector Santos
According to Viet Nam News, Vietnam's local newspaper, Vietnam will not send its men's and women's basketball team in the coming Southeast Asian Games in Thailand.

Per report, the top Vietnam sport officials have agreed that they will not give financial assistance since their chance of winning a medal is not that probable.

Head of Vietnamese Games' delegation Hoang Vinh Giang said athletes who had little chance of winning a medal would not receive official funding.

He said he regretted the fact of shortage of funding but said priority had to be given to the country's best athletes that have a greater chance of winning the gold medal.

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Women News

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CZECH REP. - Women

Trocal ZBL teams 2007/08 - BK Loko Karlovy Vary -by Petr Kapitulcin

4 Vostalova Katerina (178-F)
5 Bartova Sandra (178-F)
6 King-Bischof Ashley (178-F) (from Brown University)
7 Dlouha Adela (173-G)
8 Sedlackova Blanka (172-G)
9 Strubelova Lenka (180-F)
10 Kramer (Kalistova) Marcela (170-G)
11 Kucerova (Chocholata) Sarka (181-F)
12 Michaela Magerciakova (188-C-77) (188-C) (from Leipzig)
13 Vodrazkova Miroslava (191-C)
14 Zmekova Adela (177-F)
18 Gerstnerova Petra (196-C)
21 Timkova Katarina(172-G) (from Cassovia Kosice)

coach: Jiri Barta

2006/07 - 7th place (coach Barta)
2005/06 - 5th place (coach Barta)
2004/05 - 6th place (coach Barta)

2003/04 - 5th place (coach Vesely)

Trocal ZBL 2007/08 teams - Sokol Hradec Kralove -by Petr Kapitulcin

4 Klara Rosenbaumova (183-F-90)

5 Aneta Bicistova (173-F-89)

6 Katerina Zavazalova (171-G-90)

7 Petra Kulhankova (170-G-86)

8 Andrea Ovsikova (179-F-89) (from BK CCA Strakonice),

9 Kateřina Novakova (187-F-85)

10 Lucie Ruzickova (180-F-86)

11 Jana Houdkova (177-G-87)

12 Eva Sipova (184-F-86) (from SK UP Olomouc)

13 Klara Pochobradska (187-C-89)

14 Petra Mlejnkova (174-G-74)

15 Milena Steffanova (179-F-81) (from SK UP Olomouc)

16 Iva Komzikova (173-G-85)

17 Renata Brezinova (190-C-90)

18 Adela Věchtova (188-C-87)

21 Pavlina Jirkova (172-G-88)

22 Katerina Bartonova (172-G-90)

23 Kateřina Krizova (185-F-80)

Coach: Miroslav Volejnik

2006/2007 - 4th place (coach Volejnik)

2005/2006 - 6th place (coach Volejnik)

2004/2005 - 5th place (coach Volejnik)

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MALAYSIA - Women

Malaysia Women's national team to scout SEA Games opposition in SEABA -by Hector Santos
KUALA LUMPUR: The South-East Asian Basketball Association (Seaba) championship for women to be held in Phuket from Oct 14-20 will give Malaysia the opportunity to check out their SEA Games rivals.

The withdrawal of Vietnam has left five teams in the fray. Besides Malaysia and hosts Thailand, the others in the fray are Singapore, the Philippines and Indonesia.

And as far as national coach Tan See Wah is concerned, the SEA Games will remain their priority.

“The Seaba championship is just a stepping stone to the SEA Games where the target is to retain the gold medal,” he said.

“We have won the (Seasa) title in previous years but the more important aim is to see how the girls stand up against their rivals in the SEA Games. We have not played against other teams in the region for some time. This competition is useful to check on their current strength.”

There are 15 players in the team but three will be dropped after the Seaba championships.

Malaysia wrested the women's team gold from Thailand in Jakarta in 1997 and have been the champions since then.

Women's basketball was not contested in the 1999 Brunei Games 1999 and it was also not in the programme for the last edition in Manila two years ago.

See Wah sees Thailand as the biggest threat to Malaysia this time.

“We are not so worried about Singapore because they are unable to recruit as many China players as before after the Singapore Sports Council stopped full funding. From what I heard, they have only one China-born player left in the team,” he said.

“We are more worried about Thailand because they have recruited a Korean coach and have recalled most of their experienced players.”

Malaysia have only two players from the gold medal-winning squad at the 2003 Vietnam Games - Chow Siao Foong and Low Bee Chuan. But See Wah is optimistic that the relatively young team will be up to the challenges in Korat in December.

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SCOTLAND - Women

DEADLINE FOR NT COACHES VACANCIES IS OVER -by Luis Romero

October, 8th was closing date for applications in order to find new Youth Women Head Coach.
The Youth Head Coach will oversee the Under 16 and Under 18 National Squads with the goal of raising standards to enable the Junior Squad to compete successfully in European Championship, Division B every season.
So the person will be the Head Coach for the Under 18 Squad and work closely with the Coach of the Under 16.
Waiting for official confirmation, it seems to be that Donna Finnie will be selected for this high responsability position.
Finnie is the only coach in Scottish Basketball history who conducted U18 National Team to Gold Medal in Euro C (Scotland 2005) and to 16th place in Euro B (Romania 2007).

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VIETNAM - Women

Vietnam pulls out of Seaba -by Hector Santos
THE Southeast Asia Basketball Association women's basketball championship scheduled mid-October in Thailand may be reduced to only five teams from the original six following a decision by Vietnam to withdraw from the competition, citing funding problems for its team.

With Vietnam out of the picture, the field will be composed of host Thailand, Malaysia, Singapore, Indonesia and the Philippines.

Basketball Association of the Philippines-Samahang Basketbol ng Pilipinas executive director Patrick Gregorio said that in the original schedule, the RP-Cebuana women's basketball team was scheduled to play Vietnam in its first game, before facing dangerous Thailand.

But with Vietnam deciding not to play, the Filipinas will be forced to play the Thais outright.