EUROBASKET NEWS REPORT - 10/19/2007

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Men News

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ABA

Manchester signs New England star -by Carl Berman

The Manchester Millrats have announed the signing of combo guard John Huggins (6'2''-G-82, college: American Intern.). Huggins played for American International College in Springfield, MA; a divisional opponent of Southern New Hampshire Uuniversity in the New England-10 Conference.

In his senior year he reached double figures in scoring in 26 of the 27 games in which he appeared and scored at least 20 points on 17 occasions, including a season-high 30 points in a win at Saint Michaels. Huggins drained a school-record 83 three-pointers in 2005-06 and ranked among the NE-10 leaders in three-point field goals and free throw percentage (.817). Huggins had a string of 28 consecutive made free throws, one shy of the school record of 29.

Last season, Huggins played for Äanekosken in Huima, Finland where he posted averages of 19.9 points, 4.4 rebounds, and 2.4 assists per game.

In 2006, he led the Northeast-10 Conference in scoring with a 20.9 points-per-game average. Huggins was nominated as 2nd Team All Conference, 2nd Team All North-East, and 2nd Team All-NABC Northeast region. For his career, Huggins wound up as AIC's No. 4 all-time leading scorer with 1,786 points. He also made the second-most three-pointers in school history (235) and his 147 steals are good for sixth in school history. Huggins and Malik Moore, a former NE-10 Player of the Year, are the only two players in school history to rank in the top-10 in scoring, three-pointers and steals.

The addition of Huggins will make the Millrat's backcourt extremely hard to defend. Huggins, combined with versatile Charles Easterling and sharp shooting James Life, will make Marchester's backcourt talented, strong and flexible.



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ADRIATIC LEAGUE

FMP and Hemofarm celebrated -by Dragan Jankovski
Hemofarm STADA easily beat Siroki Prima Pivo at home 76-64 recording second win in Adriatic league. Orange team opened game well making run 12-2 but Siroki equalized after couple of minutes of the second quarter. Once again Hemofarm made run 13-2 and advantage which was unreachable for the visitors until the end. Slovenian guard Nebojsa Joksimovic (193-G-81, agency: Beo Basket) led Hemofarm adding 14 points and racking up 5 assists while center Vladan Vukosavljevic (206-F/C-84, agency: Beo Basket) finished the game with 13 points and 5 rebounds. On the other side Ivan Tomas (192-G-81) was the best in Siroki scoring 16 points including 7 assists.

FMP outplayed Vojvodina Srbijagas 82-75 also without any bigger effort. On the half time Panthers already made advantage of 9 points while at the middle of the last quarter they doubled it, 76-58. In the last couple of minutes Vojvodina just succeeded to make this defeat acceptable. FMP got 23 points from Bojan Krstovic (194-G-80) while Predrag Samardziski (215-C-86) followed him recording double-double, 16 points and 10 rebounds. Milos Bojovic (198-G-81) added 15 points, 5 rebounds and 3 assists for Vojvodina Srbijagas, who has one win and four defeats.


Hemofarm STADA - Siroki Prima Pivo 76:64
(17:16,23:16,21:16,15:16)

Hemofarm STADA: Pavkovic 9 (4 as), Trailovic, Joksimovic 14 (5 as), Bozovic 11 (6 rebs), Markovic 2 (9 as), Rakic 11, Jagodnik 8 (4 rebs), Borisov 6, Marjanovic 2, Vukosavljevic 13 (5 rebs)
DNP: Simonovic, Mladenovic.
Siroki Prima Pivo: Corey 7, Stemberger 4 (4 as), Perincic 9 (5 rebs), Tomas 16 (7 as), Dijan 14 (5 rebs), Zupic 3 (5 rebs), Sola, Spralja 11 (9 rebs)
DNP: Bubalo, Susak.


FMP - Vojvodina Srbijagas 82:75
(21:16,24:20,22:16,15:23)

FMP: Stefanovic 2, Djerasimovic 3, Erceg 6, Labovic 17, Lazic 5, Krstovic 23, Macvan 2, Protic, Micic 4, Zigeranovic 2, Samardzijski 16 (10 rebs), Covic 2.
Vojvodina Srbijagas: Duvnjak 8, Golubovic 13 (10 rebs), Pekovic, Lekic 2, Paunic 3, Markovic 13 (9 rebs, 4 st), Nemeth 8, Bajic, Djordjevic 13, Bojovic 15 (5 rebs, 3 as).

Crvena Zvezda and Partizan on the top -by Dragan Jankovski
Crvena Zvezda beat Union Olimpija at home 92-81 and remained on the top together with Partizan who also has 4 wins and 1 defeat. The biggest advantage during the game Zvezda had at the beginning of the third quarter, 67-52. Later Olimpija succeeded to get closer on 87-81 but that was all. Tadija Dragicevic (205-F-86) was unstoppable netting 30 points for Crvena Zvezda while Jasmin Hukic (204-G/F-79, agency: Beo Basket) added 19 points and 5 rebounds for Slovenian team.


Crvena Zvezda - Union Olimpija 92:81
(24:24,22:17,22:16,24:24)

Crvena Zvezda: Markovic 17 (6 rebs, 4 as), Kikanovic 7 (5 rebs), Cook 17 (5 as), Kovac 5 (5 rebs), Misanovic 10, Dragicevic 30 (3 as), Cvetkovic 2, Sljivancanin 4, Bakic
DNP: Gromyko, Tica, Rondovic.
Union Olimpija: Doncic 11, Booker 6 (5 rebs), Mocnik, Dragic 14 (5 rebs, 6 as), Hukic 19 (5 rebs), Bailey 17, Anderson 5, Zupan 4, Taylor 5 (5 rebs)
DNP: Begic.

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BAHRAIN

Kitwana Rhyner in Bahrain! -by Ali Surgeon

The virgin Islands national team player Kitwana Rhymer (208-C-78, agency: Paris Global Sports, college: Massachusetts) has joined Al-Ahli club for a 1 month tryout.

Kitwana participated recently in World Championship qualifiers for North America (Panamerican Games in Rio de Janeiro (BRA) -07: 5 games: 6.6ppg, 3.6rpg, 2FGP: 45.2%, 3PT: 0.0%)

The "Kit" is a Good shot blocker, solid in the post. Incumbent at center. Very athletic. Provides defense and energy in the middle. Runs the floor well for a big man.Solid player in the post.

He played for the last 2 seasons in China.



Nuwaidrat club testing Josh Goodwin -by Ali Surgeon
Josh Goodwin (206-G/F-83, college: Lamar) is in Bahrian for a tryout with Nuwaidrat club Coached by Walter Carvahllo.

He is A good athlete who has a great upside. He can run floor well and go inside/out on offense. He also can guard out on floor or on the inside.

During the season of 2006-2007 he played for: Union Shops Rastatt (GER-2.Bundesliga): 10 games: 11.3ppg, Reb-1(11.2rpg), 1.0spg, 2FGP: 51.1%, FT: 58.3%, left in Dec.'06 and joined Norrkoping Dolphins (SWE-Basketligan,1T): Swedish League: 3 games: 6.0ppg, 5.3rpg, 1.3apg, 1.0bpg; EuroCup Challenge: 2 games: 10.5ppg, 2.5rpg, 1ast, 2FGP: 58.3%, then moved to Al Jalaa Aleppo (SYR-D1,1T) to play in 18th Dubai International Tournament
In Feb.'07 signed at Manawatu Jets (NZL-NBL,1T): 12ppg, 10.5rpg.

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BALTIC LEAGUE

Neptunas: 2 games in 2 days -by Eurobasket News
Lithuanian Neptunas played 2 games over the last 2 days in BBL. One win and one loss is a good result for the team.

In the first game Neptunas overcame Barons 91:86. Barons got an early 10:4 lead and remained it for the most time of the first period. Lithuanian team tied the score at 40:40 at the half. Both teams went right at each other in the third period as well. Barons scored 5 points without an answer to finish this period being ahead 62:61. In the last quarter Neptunas managed to score 30 points to take the win in the game. Vitalijus Stanevicius (202-F-83) led the winners with 24 points. Evaldas Dainys (180-G-82, college: Cent.Florida CC) posted 14, while Pociuipa added 12. Skele finished the night with 27 points.

Just a minute ago Neptunas lost to Lietuvos Rytas 64:79. The favorite stormed in the first quarter to take 27:12 lead. Later on Neptunas struggled hard and could finish the game truthfully. Matt Nielsen (208-F/C-78) was satisfied with 12 points for the winners. Arturas Jomantas (202-G/F-85) and Slezas followed him with 10 points each. Mindaugas Mockus (194-G-80) and Vitalijus Stanevicius ended up with 16 points in the game.

Neptunas-Barons/LMT 91 : 86 (14-15, 26-25, 21-22, 30-24 )
Neptunas: Vitalijus Stanevicius 24, Evaldas Dainys 14, Pociuipa 12
Barons/LMT: Skele 27, Berzins 15

Lietuvos Rytas-Neptunas 79:64 (27:12, 14:14, 17:20, 21:18)
Lietuvos Rytas: Matt Nielsen 12, Arturas Jomantas 10, Slezas 10
Neptunas: Mindaugas Mockus 16, Vitalijus Stanevicius 16

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BELARUS

National Cup Results -by Viktar Tkachou
Group “A”
10.10.07

Grodno-93 - Temp-OSHVSM - 71:61

Lokomotiv-KiS - Sozh - 80:89

11.10.07
Sozh - Grodno-93 - 55:98 (13:24, 19:23, 11:19, 12:32)
Sozh: Senkevich - 14, Vch. Ostrikau - 10
Grodno-93: Yafremau - 17, Mastou - 15, D.Sviridov - 14, Kachan - 11

Temp-OSHVSM - Lokomotiv-KiS - 90:79 (24:18, 20:21, 26:18, 20:22)
Temp: Yakovitsky - 24, Kharkevich - 20, O.Krivonos - 14, Lavrinenko - 13, Barisau - 10
Lokomotiv-KiS: Pishchulenok - 17, Sivalko - 15, Korolev - 12, Dombrovsky - 11, Sapegin - 11

12.10.07
Temp-OSHVSM - Sozh - 86:88 (33:24, 20:20, 16:19, 17:25)
Temp: Yakovitsky - 25, O.Krivonos - 18, Borisov - 16, Lavrinenko - 12
Sozh: Viach. Ostrikau - 17, Drabyshevsky - 14, Vl. Osrikau - 14, Senkevich - 14, Telepnev - 11, Yarets - 10

Lokomotiv-KiS - Grodno-93 - 62:84 (17:20, 16:18, 20:27, 9:19)
Lokomotiv-KiS: Sapegin - 16, Korzh - 14, Pishchulenok - 10
Grodno-93: Duvakin - 21, Mastou - 12, Yafremau - 11

Standings W L P
Grodno-93 3 0 6
Sozh 2 1 5
Temp-OSHVSM 1 2 4
Lokomotiv-KiS 0 3 3


Group “B”
10.10.07

Vitalyur - BNTU - 94:52

Minsk-2006 - OZAA - 82:87 (OT) 20:17, 21:18, 17:12, 16:27, 8:13)
Minsk-2006: Pyntsikau - 19, Oleinik - 15, Shtereb - 15, Chemiakin - 10
OZAA: Maksimovic - 25, Kandrusevich - 17, Charikau - 13, Ristic - 11

11.10.07

BNTU - OZAA - 53:98 (16:33, 14:24, 10:27, 13:14)
BNTU: Plotnikov - 14, Vinchel - 11, Maistruk - 10
OZAA: Antoshchanka - 19, Matveev - 17, Ivanov - 13, Maksimov - 13

Minsk-2006 - Vitalyur - 76:85 (16:25, 18:22, 23:14, 19:24)
Minsk-2006: Shtereb - 13, Chemiakin - 13, Kaniyshenko - 11, Patsevich - 11
Vitalyur: Trastsianetsky - 19, Sharko - 17, Yeremenko - 16

12.10.07
Vitalyur - OZAA - 84:72 (20:14, 23:23, 23:14, 18:21)
Vitalyur: Sharko - 28, Bibik - 11,
OZAA: Hubko - 13
Minsk-2006 - BNTU - 97:57 (18:16, 34:13, 24:17, 21:11)
Minsk-2006: Glebovich - 16, Konushenko - 14, Shilovich - 14, Gabrusevich - 11, Akulich - 10, Chemiakin - 10
BNTU: Shamyna - 12, Kazankevich - 10

Standings W L P
Vitalyur 3 0 6
OZAA 2 1 5
Minsk-2006 1 2 4
BNTU 0 3 3

Semifinals:
13.10.07
Vitalyur - Sozh - 94:76 (15:14, 34:32, 25:11, 20:19)
Vitalyur: Dadykin - 20, Bibik - 19, Trastsianetsky - 18
Sozh: Senkevich - 16, Viach. Ostrikau - 15, Telepnev - 11

OZAA - Grodno-93 - 65:72 (12:23, 20:15, 19:16, 14:18)
OZAA: Kandrusevich - 20, Maksimov - 20
Grodno-93: Yafremau - 16, Mastou - 13, Kachan - 11

3d place:
14.10.07
OZAA - Sozh - 71:59 (20:20, 14:14, 19:12, 18:13)
OZAA: Kandrusevich - 19, Ivanov - 12
Sozh: Viach. Ostrikau - 16, Senkevich - 12, Vl. Ostrikau - 10, Prokopenko - 10

14.10.07. Final
Grodno-93 - Vitalyur - 81:79 (19:24, 21:18, 20:17, 21:20)
Grodno-93: Mishukov - 18, Kachan - 15, Mastou - 14, Sviridov - 13, Duvakin - 6, Vashakidze - 5, Dydik - 4, Kuznetsov - 4, Grekhau - 2
Vitalyur: Dadykin - 20, Yeremenko - 18, Zaitsev - 14, Sharko - 10, Bibik - 8, Pogrebnev - 6, Shustau - 3

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CHILE

Dimayor: Round 7 results -by Daniel Valencia
Round 7

Deportivo Espanol 76 - Liceo Mixto 69
Esp: Marques Hayden 27 pts. / Lic: Patricio Briones 23 pts.

Universidad de Concepcion 77 - Universidad Catolica 67
Ucon: Chris Sockwell 22 pts. / Uc: Maurice Spillers 23 pts.

Union Deportiva Espanola 95 - Boston College 96
Ude: Joe Webb 37 pts. / Bos: Tony Bishop 37 pts.

Deportivo Valdivia 75 - Puente Alto CD 72
Val: James Moore 27 pts. / Pue: Jefferson Agba 15 pts.

Provincial Osorno 90 - Deportes Castro 81
Oos: Larry Florence 23 pts. / Cas: Bobby Madison 20 pts.

Provincial Llanquihue 89 - Deportes Ancud 107
Llan: Melvin Roberts 24 pts. / Anc: Kevin Sowell 31 pts.

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CHINA

Team China Loses to Orlando Magic -by Arthur Volbert
The Orlando Magic beat the Chinese National Team tonight 116-92. The National Team was without Yao Ming and Yi Jianlian but added three CBA imports.

Olumide Oyedeji (208-C/F-81) of the Beijing Ducks led China with 25 points and Wang Zhizhi added 16. Major Wingate of Shanxi Yujun scored 13 points as did Wang Lei. Wang hit 4 of 9 shots and grabbed 4 rebounds in 32 minutes, starting at shooting guard. He had 1 assist and no turnovers.

Sun Yue scored 8 points in 25 minutes, hitting 3 of 7 shots. He had 4 assists and 2 turnovers. Liu Wei had 3 points in 31 minutes. He had 5 assists to 1 turnover but hit only 1 of 7 shots.

Liu Xiaoyu played 17 minutes and scored four points and grabbed 4 rebounds. He had 1 assist and had 2 turnovers. Ding Jinhui played 14 minutes and had 2 points and 2 assists. Franz Steyn of Dongguan played 15 minutes and scored 5 points.

Dwight Howard scored 12 points in 13 minutes for the Magic. Carlos Arroyo led the Magic with 25 points and Hedo Turkoglu scored 17. James Augustine scored 14.

China opened the game strongly and led 12-3 but from there on it was all Orlando. Orlando outscored China 40-21 in the second quarter and led 64-39 at the half to seal the game.

With the use of three import big men in place of Yao, Yi and Mo Ke, this game was clearly for practice. But Wang Lei, Sun Yue and Liu Xiaoyu may well be cementing places on the team as perimeter players, perhaps reducing the roles of Wang Shipeng and Zhu Fangyu. Ding Jinhui may also be earning a role as a backup at both forward slots.

Zhang Songtao played 4 minutes and if he makes the team next year it would just be to have another big body.

Orlando--- 24 40 28 24 116
Team China 18 21 30 23 92

BoxScore:
http://scores.espn.go.com/nba/boxscore?gameId=271018136

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CROATIA

All the Croatians teams are 3-2 in the Adriatic League -by Eurobasket News
In three games with Croatian teams, the country got 3 victories. Split lost to Zadar and brought the only loss for Croatia.

Zadar controlled the inside game and won 91:70. Jure Lalic (212-C-86) poured in 23 points and made 10 rebounds for the winners. Corey Brewer (188-G-75, college: Oklahoma) supported him with 20 points, while Tony Akins (180-G-80, college: Georgia Tech) had 14 points and 8 assists in defeat.

Zagreb had a road win over Geoplin Slovan 89:102. Hosts opened the game better and took 14-8 lead which forced Danijel Jusup to call a time-out. In the end of the game Zagreb created 13-2 run to tie at 52:52. Jakov Vladovic (187-G-83) was unstoppable with 27 points and 11 assists. Dundovic and Tomic followed him with 20 points for the visitors. Ricky Clemons (180-G-80, agency: Strategic Sports, college: Missouri) nailed 28 points in the losing effort.

Cibona achieved third victory by defeating Buducnost 80:78. Larry Ayuso (190-G-77, agency: Edge Sports, college: USC) who converted two 3-pointer attempts for 15:7 lead five minutes into the match. Buducnost responded with nine free throws and a 3-pointer and approached to 55:53. Larry Ayuso confirmed the win with two free throws in the end of the game. He led all the winners with 16 points. Warren posted 14, while Vukusic added 13.


Zadar - Split CO 91:70
Zadar:Jure Lalic 23 points+10 rebounds, Corey Brewer 20
Split CO: Tony Akins 14 points+8 assists.

Geoplin Slovan - Zagreb 89:102
Geoplin Slovan: Ricky Clemons 28 points
Zagreb:Jakov Vladovic 27 points+ 11 assists. Dundovic 20, Tomic 20

Cibona - Buducnost 80:78
Cibona: Larry Ayuso 16 points, Warren 14, Vukusic 13
Buducnost: Micov 17 points

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CYPRUS

Transfer news -by Chris Mammides
Proteas EKA AEL Limasol split ways with Alen Trepalovac (215-C-85) the Croat center didn't satisfied the Limasol team's management, at the same time though they replaced him with anotehr giant, they hasve agreed terms with the Russian Aleksandr Dedoushkin (207-C-81)
Achilleas Kaimakli agreed terms with the Serbian center (rookiein the European leagues), Ljubisa Vrcelj (211-C-84) and is very closed to sign an American Forward.

Transfer news -by Chris Mammides

Dentalcon Apoel agreed terms with the American point guard Tyson Wheeler (183-G-75, college: Rhode Island) ex Le Mans player with experience in the Italian leagues too, the American guard Laurence Strokes (188-G-83) rookie in the European leagues and the well known Serbian Balca Radunovic (206-F/C-80) who just left from the Russian league.



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CZECH REP.

Pardubice left alone on top -by Eurobasket News
Pardubice remained the only undefeated team in Czech Republic NBL after 5 rounds of action. They overcame Ostrava at home and improved to 5-0 record, while their main rivals so far Prostajov were beaten by Nymburk 59:79 away from home. Now three teams chase Pardubice with 4-1 records.
Pardubice - Ostrava 86:83
Ostrava travelled to Pardubice having won only one game in four encounters but they challenged the league leaders and were very close to upsetting the favorites. Using slow start of the game from the hosts Ostrava grabbed the lead and well maintained it throughout the first quarter. Pardubice finally surged ahead early in the second stanza but the lead changed hands for a couple of times before Levell Sanders (189-G-75, agency: Stanley International, college: Seton Hall) ignited an 8:0 rally to lift Pardubice to a 43:35 distance. But 5 straight points from Ostrava at the start of the third frame allowed Ostrava to come back into the contest as they tied the scoreline at 47. Bohacik nailed 4 consecutive points for the visitors midway through the frame and Ostrava claimed 59:53 advantage. Bohacik later capped the quarter with another two-point play and Ostrava entered the fourth period with a 67:62 dominance. They were still in front with 35 seconds left on the clock but Levell Sanders connected from afar and put the hosts ahead 84:83. Zbynek Pospisil (205-C-81) and John Ofoegbu (206-C-82, college: Idaho St.) missed their opportunities and Levell Sanders sealed the win from charity stripe.
Levell Sanders, Marian Pribyl (197-G/F-75) and Tarvis Williams (205-F/C-78, college: Hampton) led the home side with 19 points apiece. Sullivan Phillips added 10 points for the winners. Zbynek Pospisil paced Ostrava with 23 points and 7 boards. John Ofoegbu hit 19 points in a losing clause.

Nymburk - Prostejov 79:59
Nymburk rebounded after the loss in the third round and posted their second win in a row edging previously undefeated Prostejov. The teams were all square after 10 minutes of action. Prostejov sparked with 5 straight points at the start of the second quarter and seemed to be clearing away. But Monty Mack (191-G-77, agency: Interperformances, college: Massachusetts) and Kremen notched consecutive three pointers and fueled Nymburk's run. The hosts stunned the visitors with a 20:0 rally and drove to a 38:30 advantage at halftime.
Nymburk held on to the lead throughout the third quarter and entered the final term ahead 54:44. Monty Mack scored 10 points in the fourth period and led Nymburk to a comprehensive victory at the end. He poured in 17 points, while Arthur Lee (185-G-77, college: Stanford) managed 18 points to pace the hosts. Rashaan Ames (184-G-77, college: Shaw) replied with 11 points for Prostejov.

Nymburk - Prostejov 79:59
Nymburk: Arthur Lee 18, Monty Mack 17
Prostejov: Rashaan Ames 11, Aleksandar Bojic (207-C-81, college: Hawaii-Pacific) 8+7 boards

Pardubice - Ostrava 86:83
Pardubice: Levell Sanders 19, Marian Pribyl 19, Tarvis Williams 19
Ostrava: Zbynek Pospisil 23+7 boards, John Ofoegbu 19

Praha - Usti 67:56
Praha: Lucious Wagner (194-G-81, agency: Court Side, college: Evansville) 15, Murus Andelija (208-C/F-81) 10+18 boards
Usti: Jan Tomanec (212-C-85) 18, Tomas Hruby (206-C-78) 11

Kolin - Sadska 76:86
Kolin: Kamil Rerabek (194-G-82, agency: PPGroup) 12,Ondrej Vrchota (185-G-77) 11
Sadska: Tim Lyle (202-F-79, college: JMU) 21, Denis Mujagic (193-G-69) 20

Decin - Liberec 93:71
Decin: Damien Argrett (203-F/C-82, college: Pfeiffer) 23+11 boards, Pavel Milos (200-F-79, agency: PPGroup) 20
Liberec: Ales Kocvara (207-C-66) 20, Ladislav Toth (196-F-83) 10

Geofin - Brno 107:69
Geofin: Joe Chapman (193-G/F-84, college: Marquette) 18, Ondrej Soska (208-C-78) 18, McMillian 18+10 boards
Brno: Stepan Vrubl (185-G-76) 22, Tomas Novotny (205-C-83) 15

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GEORGIA

Anwar Ferguson and Belton Rivers is arriving after midnight -by Levan Mikeladze
Anwar Ferguson (213-C-81, college: Houston) is new center player who signed a contract with ENERGY and the day after tomorrow he will have his first practice with Georgian team. Belton Rivers (193-G-84, college: Tennessee Tech) is coming today as well, so on October 21st all import players from ENERGY will together have its first official match against VITA in Georgian Highest League. Jovan Stefanov, Belton Rivers, Anwar Ferguson . . .

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GERMANY

News from Bergheim -by Moritz Korff
After the departure of Ivan Cubela (201-F-84) to Finland also Kendall Webb (178-G-84, college: Wayland Baptist) left the Bergheim Bandits (Regionalliga West) to move abroad. The member of the 2007 NAIA Division One All-America First Team is now working out with a Lithuanian side, trying to shoot a contract there. The Bandits are currently looking for a replacement. Meanwhile also Coach Michael Pawelczak is no longer on his position in Bergheim. Zarko Blazevic was named the interims coach. His Serbian countryman Nikola Jovanovic (180-G-87) will play for the Bandits against Moenchengladbach on Saturday, but is only going to stay until he found another team.

Dustin Kinney to Aschersleben -by Daniel Poerschke
The Aschersleben Tigers BC of the 1. Regionalliga North added Dustin Kinney (201-F-83) to their roster. Kinney comes from the University of Charleston (NCAA II) and replaces Theo Little (208-C-84, college: Arkansas St.), who had to leave because of an injury.

BSV Wulfen adds McSwine -by Moritz Korff
BSV Wulfen (Regionalliga West) signed Rashad McSwine (180-G, college: St.Joseph, IN) as the new import player for the Point Guard-spot. McSwine averaged 25 ppg in 13 games for FMC Capone Duesseldorf in this past campaign. Wulfen reacted to the fact, that veteran-guard Rob Stearns (182-G-71, college: Baptist Bible (SC)) finished his career as a player and was named the new Headcoach after the exit of Dirk Altenbeck.

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GREECE

Transfer news -by Chris Mammides

A1
AEK Athens agreed terms with William Avery (188-G-79, college: Duke) and Smiljan Pavic (210-F/C-80)
PAOK agreed terms with the American player with French passport Antoine Gillespie (194-G-76, college: UTEP) and the English player Steven Hansell (192-G-75, agency: Court Side, college: Illinois St.).
Egaleo agreed terms with the Greek-Cypriot guard Prodromos Nikolaidis (201-F-78).
Olimpiada Patras agreed terms with the Lithuanian power forward / center Tautvydas Lydeka (208-C/F-83)

Rethymno agreed terms with the American guard J.R. Pinnock (196-G-83, college: George Washington)

Panionios and Jerry Mcnamara will soon announced their "basketball divorce" the talented gaurd didn't satisfied with his abilities the Greek head coach Minas Gekos so it is expected (very soon) to announced his release, the Greek head coach will try to sign very soon another guard as the league starts in less than 48 hours.


C' Division

Ionikos Neas Filadelfeias dismiss head coach Alexis Pappas and hired coach Spyros Stathoulis to be the new head coach

EA Patras will announce very soon the dismissal of their head coach Giorgos Michaelides as they count a poor record of 0-3 in the first three weeks of the league. The announcement will take place within the next three- four days.



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GUATEMALA

Leones win even Game 2 -by Gianni Pascucci
On the past tuesday night, Leones de Marte defeated again Elite Sport Pollo Rey 105-99 and now lead the Liga Metropolitana Finals 2-0, needing of only another win to become the 2007 champions. According with the statements of Guillermo Noack (190-F-79) to local media, the winning move of Leones was a very hard defense on the perimeter, that limited the very good outside shooting of Elite Sport. Game 3 has been played yesterday night, at the Roberto Palomo Castellanos Gymnasium, in Guatemala City. And Latinbasket.com will keep you posted of the result.

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HOLLAND

Strong 4th Quarter Start Helps Landstede Basketball Overtake Den Helder Seals -by Sanders Jackson

In the ZBC-hal on Thursday night in the Landstede Basketball-Den Helder Seals matchup, it was a close battle throughout the first three quarters with Den Helder Seals clinging to the lead for all but the first minute of the game. However, with Den Helder Seals leading 44-42 at the start of the 4th, they made a fatal mistake, opening up in a matchup zone which was eye candy for Landstede. Landstede responded with two straight three-pointers by current FEB leading scorer Robby Bostain (191-G/F-84, agency: Sports Plus International, college: Furman) and Arno Bunnig (197-F-85) and a Bostain fast break layup that triggered a 12-0 run, leading Landstede to a 71-53 win. Landstede outscored the Seals 29-9 in the 4th quarter, and forced their opponent to shoot only 3 for 14 from the field and 1 of 9 from the three-point line, plus outrebounded Den Helder 14-7 in the 4th. The Seals were held to only one shot in the quarter and did not block ot well themselves, with Landstede attacking the middle of the lane at will on dribble drives, with the Seals interior slow to rotate. Bostain led all scorers with 19 pts., Darnell Wilson (198-F-85, college: Canisius) added 16 pts. and 11 rebounds, Alexander Sa (184-G-83) added 14 pts. and 7 assists. Dane Bradshaw (193-G-84, agency: Court Side, college: Tennessee) led Den Helder with 15 pts. While both teams did not shoot above 40% FG, Landstede held Den Helder to only 33.3% FG and 5 for 23 from the three-point line, plus had a 48-38 rebounding advantage with 17 offensive rebounds. and only 8 turnovers. Landstede are now 2-2, while the Seals fall to 1-3.

Hanzevast Capitals Get 1st Win Of Season -by Sanders Jackson

In the Martiniplaza on Thursday night, Hanzevast Capitals put an end to their slow start of the season with a 92-78 win over ZZ Leiden. Donar took control in the 3rd quarter and never looked back, with their depth usage to its advantage. Dwayne Archbold (198-F/G-80, agency: CAA Sports, college: Siena) and Guido Gruenheid (206-F/C-82, agency: LimeLight) led the way with 17 pts. each. Donald Wilson (193-G-84, agency: Court Side, college: Portland) led all scorers with 33 pts. Every Hanzevast player contributed in the scoring department, with a 39-9 bench scoring difference and 36 total pts. off ZZ turnovers. ZZ were forced to cough up the ball 26 times. Hanzevast are now 1-3 and will try to make it two in a row on Saturday vs. last-place Omniworld.

Aris Friesland released Rick van de Nes -by Fred Roggen
After three games played with Aris Friesland, forward Rik van de Nes (204-C/F-82, agency: R.H.Consultancy) left the team due to study reasons. According to manager Gert Schurer the forward had the option to choose between his study or playing for Aris.

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IBL

IBL Sends Second Team to China -by Trask Frost
Portland, Oregon—Ten players from the International Basketball League were selected to compete in China to play against the Yunnan Honghe Running Bulls professional basketball team of the Chinese Basketball Association. The Chinese Basketball Association is the top league in China; the CBA became well known in 2002 when the Houston Rockets of the NBA chose Yao Ming out of the CBA, as the overall #1 NBA draft pick.

The ten IBL players going to China this week will play for the Central Oregon Hotshots although the team is comprised of IBL professionals from all over the league. Two confirmed players will suit up for the Hotshots next year during the 2008 season:—6' 4” shooting guard Paul Hafford (6'4''-G-84, college: Portland St.), a first year professional player who averaged 24.7 pts per game over 20 games in the 2007 season and eammate Cliff White (6'3''-G-80, college: Cascade)—a 6' 3” combo guard and third year professional who averaged 20 pts per game in 20 games in the 2007 IBL season.

Other players on the team include: Allan Purnell (6'4''-G-82, college: Pacific) who was selected from the Santa Barbara Breakers. Breakers coach Curt Pickering described Purnell as a player that “does everything right”. Jamaal Miller (6'1''-G-82, agency: Court Side) will run the point guard position the Hotshots; Miller joined the Monroe Explosion late in the 2007 campaign and did not make their All Star team but his play in the West Coast IBL tournament drew accolades as he put up big numbers and hit big shots throughout Everett's two rounds of play. Three players from the Portland Chinooks were selected including 2007 IBL All Star Michael Parker (6'5''-G/F-82, agency: ProSportsCareers, college: Evergreen St.) and 2007 IBL 3-point champion Robert Day (6'6''-F-82, college: W.Oregon).

Full Team Roster:
6' 7”Michael Parker IBL Portland Chinooks
6' 4” Robert Day IBL Portland Chinooks
6' 4” Paul Hafford IBL Central Oregon Hotshots
6' 0” Jamaal Miller IBL Monroe Explosion
6' 11” LaShawn Malloy IBL Portland Chinooks
6' 5” Allan Purnell IBL Santa Barbara Breakers
6' 3” Cliff White IBL Central Oregon Hotshots
6' 6” Anthony Lackey IBL Tri City Ballers
6' 8” Jajuan Winesberry IBL Tacoma Jazz
6' 11” Jack Wolfinger IBL Vancouver Volcanoes (2006)

This team is the second team from the IBL to go to China in recent months (the first being the 2007 IBL Champions Elkhart Express who drew great reviews on their trip to China in August of 2007).

The IBL is a professional basketball league comprised currently of teams from all over North America. The IBL's fourth season tips off in March of 2008. For more information, see the IBL web site at www.IBLhoopsOnline.com

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ICELAND

Iceland Express. Second round. -by Siggi Hjorleifsson
Thor lost to Njardvik at home 73 - 101. SAfter good start in first quarter were Thor leads 28-19 second quarter was opposite numbers 19 - 28 for Njardvik. 47-47 at half time. Second half was owed by Njardvik. Leading scorers for Thor. Cedric Isom (-G-84) 22. Odinn Asgeirsson 21 Luka Marlot 10. For Njardvik. Johann Olafsson 22. Brenton Birmingham 20. Fridrik Stefansson 14.

IR 93 Tindastoll 74 Good win for IR . Tindastoll leading by 2 at half time. Leading scorers for IR. Hreggvidur Magnusson 20. Sonny Troutman 17. Eirikur Onundarson 16. Sveinbjorn Claessen 15. For Tindastoll. Samir Shaptahovic 17. Ronald Brown 16. Marcin Konarzewski 13.

Grindavik 109 KR 100. Aftyer big loss in first game Grindavik came more ready for this game and beat KR last years Champion. Not good defense in this game as the score tell.
Leading scorers for Grindavik. Pall A, Vilbergsson 27. Jonathan Griffin 23. Pall Kristinsson 14. Adame Darboe 13. For KR. Joshua Helm 21. Avi Figel 21. Jovan Zdravevski 16. Helgi Magnusson 15. Brynjar Bjornsson 13.

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INDIA

SCR win -by Anil Kumar
South Central Railway, Secunderabad fashioned their
first win in two outings as they overcame a strong
challenge to beat Maharashtra 97-78 in an exciting
men's Group ‘A' contest, in the 24th United
Phosphorous Ltd. All India Ramu Memorial Basketball
Tournament at the Indian Gymkhana, King's Circle,
Matunga on Tuesday.

South Central, who lost their opener to Vijaya Bank,
Bangalore, warmed up in the second quarter to surge to
a 54-42 lead at half-time before Maharashtra came back
strongly in the third and fourth quarters to run their
rivals close.

Nihal Yadav (25), Laxman (24) and Liju Abraham (16,
including two three-pointers) were the significant
scorers for South Central. Saurabh Nissar (21) and
Adarsh Saxena (13) contributed the most for
Maharashtra.

In a Group ‘B' tie, Western Railway overcame Tamil
Nadu Basketball Association (TNBA) 92-78 in their
opening match, after leading 43-32 at half-time, even
as TNBA crashed to their second loss from as many
matches and are virtually out of contention.

It was a rewarding day for South Central as their
women's team began their campaign with a comfortable
75-59 win over an off-target Western Railway in a
Group ‘B' tie.

Western paid the price for poor shooting skills as
they missed the basket much too often, to pave the way
for an easy outing for South Central.

South Central, who led 38-18 at half-time, were
spearheaded by Sindhu Biju (37), Balvinder Kaur (10)
and Rakhi Rajput (9). Menaka Anthony (18), Meenakshi
Rao (10) and Rashmi (9) were the top-scorers for
Western.

Results: Men: Group ‘A': S.C. Rly 97 (Nihal Yadav 25,
Laxman 24, Liju Abraham 16) bt Maharashtra 78 (Saurabh
Nissar 21, Adarsh Saxena 13). HT: 54-42. Group ‘B':
Western Rly 92 (Jasjot Singh 28, R. Dev 14, P. Ethiraj
13) bt TNBA 78 (Anbu Kumar 21, Sundar 19, Gopi 14).

Women ‘B': South Central 75 (Sindhu Biju 37, Balvinder
Kaur 10, Rakhi 9) bt Western Rly 59 (Menaka 18,
Meenakshi 10, Rashmi 9).

WEDESDAY: 4.30 p.m.: S.E.C. Rly vs S.C. Rly (Women
‘B'); 5 p.m.: Indian Army vs Maharashtra (Men ‘A');
7.30 p.m.: Indian Navy vs TNBA (Men ‘B'); 9 p.m.:
Central Excise & Customs, Kochi vs Western Rly (Men
‘B') - [All India Ramu Memorial Basketball Tournament,
at the Indian Gymkhana, King's Circle, Matunga]

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ISRAEL

Israeli abroad -by Eurobasket News
While the country is waiting for the new season, some Israeli players started the season abroad.

Haggai Hundert (190-G, college: Oklahoma City) nailed 5 points for Svit, that leads now Slovak standings. Svit-Inter was the key game of Round 5 in Slovak League. Svit was defeated at home by Inter 62:68. An early 22:13 gave the guests the control of the game. Moreover a 14:9 in the second increased their lead to 14 points at the half. Dusan Pandula led the winners with 32 points. Haggai Hundert's team mate Darko Pezer top-scored for the hosts with 16 points.

In Russia Yaniv Green (206-F-80, agency: Arik Krayn Services) could not help Samara to upset the favorite CSKA. CSKA Moscow spurted in the opening quarter over CSK VVS-Samara not to worry about the rest of the game. After 31:13 the hosts led to 97:62 win. Alexei Savrasenko and David Andersen led the winners with 14 points each. Yaniv Green ended up with 14 points in the losing effort, being the top-scorer of the team.

In Ukraine Amit Tamir (208-C-79, agency: Arik Krayn Services, college: California) made 4 rebounds for Cherkasy Monkeys in a 59:89 loss from Politekhnika-Halychyna.

Sodertalje hosted Sundsvall in a game to see who stayed on top of the Basketligan after the first three rounds. It was a close game for the first 2 quarters with lead changes all through the half. Israeli Jonathan Skjoldebrand (203-C/F-83, agency: Arik Krayn Services) for Sodertalje was dominating with his offensive repertoire in the first half. He kept his team in the game. he poured in 26 points, however his team lost 82:91.

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ITALY

Lega2 - Market news -by Gabriele Fioretti
Montecatini announced to agreed terms with Thierry Zig (192-G-75) (former point guard in Livorno and Reggio Calabria) for a one-month-contract and to have signed Alejandro Gomez (204-F/C-72) for another month to substitute the injured Donzell Rush (207-C-74, college: S.Florida).

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JAPAN

Apache Fly High to Dethrone Kings -by JD
The Tokyo Apache took the first two of a three - game preseason series from the Ryukyu Golden Kings this past weekend. Both games were well attended by Okinawan fans, but the Apache spoiled the party with notable plays from All-stars John 'Helicopter' Humphrey, Masashi Joho and Nick Davis. Coach Planells of Ryukyu stated that it was good to finally play against another BJ team to see their weak points and be able to make adjustments. This was in reference to the teams recent and successful campaign in Tawain. Game 3 tips off on Friday night (10/19) with the Apache looking for a sweep. It will be interesting to see if this momentum will carry over into the season when they tip off with the Saitama Broncos in Tokyo. The Golden Kings also jump the season off at home versus the Oita Heatdevils.

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KOREA

Orions Win 1st Game Of The 2007-2008 KBL Season -by Rick Ross
The Defending Champion Mobis Hosted Orions and came up
Short losing 92-83, the game was led by Orions by as much as 14
Points but by the 3rd quarter mobis had a one point advantage going
Into the Final stretch, Trimmingham Leon (200-F-71, agency: HM Sports Agency, college: Briar Cliff) High Man along with Bobby Brannen (202-F-75, college: Cincinnati) (202-F-75, college: Cincinnati),
No scores and stats available at this Time,
http://www.kbl.or.kr/

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LITHUANIA

Raptors upset Zalgiris in another exhibition game for the team -by Eurobasket News
Zalgiris - Toronto 99:105

Lithuanian Zalgiris lost the second game against NBA team. Toronto Raptors edged Zalgiris in their European tour encounter. Six Raptors players scored in double figures en route to a 105:99 win. T.J. Ford (178-G-83, college: Texas) produced 13 points and 11 assists as Toronto improved to 2-2 record in preseason action. Jonas Maciulis (200-G/F-85, agency: Interperformances) was the best for the European side nailing 24 points. De Juan Collins (188-G-76, college: Tuskegee) supported him and the team with 16.
A pair of Joey Graham baskets helped the Raptors grab a 10-point in the opening tip. Collins inspired 5-0 spurt made it 49:45 late in the half. The teams went to the interim with 53:48 for the Canadians.
Paulius Jankunas made a three-point play and Beard drilled a three-pointer during an 8-0 run that tied the score. Calderon made it 79:77 after three period. In the last quarter Toronto looked more optimistic and ambitious to take 105:99 win.
Zalgiris will play one more games on its tour. On Friday Lithuanian team faces the Wizards in Washington.

Zalgiris: Jonas Maciulis 24, De Juan Collins 16
Toronto: Jason Kapono (201-F-81, college: UCLA) 13, T.J. Ford 13+11 assists

Neptunas: 2 games in 2 days -by Eurobasket News
Lithuanian Neptunas played 2 games over the last 2 days in BBL. One win and one loss is a good result for the team.

In the first game Neptunas overcame Barons 91:86. Barons got an early 10:4 lead and remained it for the most time of the first period. Lithuanian team tied the score at 40:40 at the half. Both teams went right at each other in the third period as well. Barons scored 5 points without an answer to finish this period being ahead 62:61. In the last quarter Neptunas managed to score 30 points to take the win in the game. Vitalijus Stanevicius (202-F-83) led the winners with 24 points. Evaldas Dainys (180-G-82, college: Cent.Florida CC) posted 14, while Pociuipa added 12. Skele finished the night with 27 points.

Just a minute ago Neptunas lost to Lietuvos Rytas 64:79. The favorite stormed in the first quarter to take 27:12 lead. Later on Neptunas struggled hard and could finish the game truthfully. Matt Nielsen (208-F/C-78) was satisfied with 12 points for the winners. Arturas Jomantas (202-G/F-85) and Slezas followed him with 10 points each. Mindaugas Mockus (194-G-80) and Vitalijus Stanevicius ended up with 16 points in the game.

Neptunas-Barons/LMT 91 : 86 (14-15, 26-25, 21-22, 30-24 )
Neptunas: Vitalijus Stanevicius 24, Evaldas Dainys 14, Pociuipa 12
Barons/LMT: Skele 27, Berzins 15

Lietuvos Rytas-Neptunas 79:64 (27:12, 14:14, 17:20, 21:18)
Lietuvos Rytas: Matt Nielsen 12, Arturas Jomantas 10, Slezas 10
Neptunas: Mindaugas Mockus 16, Vitalijus Stanevicius 16

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LUXEMBOURG

The Mental Edge -by Alexis Kreps
As we go into the weekend the fifth round of the DBBL Tips off. The currentStandings Have a few supprises with Etzella Ettelbruck a top of the table Being Lead by Nelson Delgado (185-G-80) and Marcus Kennedy (193-F-84, college: Montevallo). Another suprise has to be T71 Dudelange slow start But now that Chris Martin (200-F-83, agency: Rasmussen Services, college: Elmhurst) is back and Frank Muller (195-F) is becoming an allstar Pehaps they can get the Big Black Rollin again. A couple teams to watch Have to be Mersch and Walfer as they go head to head. This weekend will not make or break any team but psychologically some the teams that get a victory on this round tend to do well throughout the rest of the the season.

Better Late than never -by Alexis Kreps
One bold move has been made by AS Soleuvre. They have decided to part ways with their foreign player Nemanja Matejic (202-F/C-82) who played well last year. He will be replaced by the US player Sean Hampton (195-F-75, agency: R.H.Consultancy, college: Alderson-Broaddus), who played last year for USC Freiburg, 2nd Bundesliga. However difficult this must have been It appears to be resonable due to the teams 0-4 record and last place standing. These early moves by AS Soleuvre and T71 Dudelange clearly demonstrate that all teams this season are making it priority number one to make the playoff group.

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NBA

NBA preseason action is in full swing -by Eurobasket News
As the NBA regular season is approaching the preseason games got heated up and coaches all kinds of predictions and forecasts fill the air. NBA continues its expansion in Europe and Asia with bunch of exhibition games being staged away from the States.
Yesterday Cleveland and Orlando clashed in China as a part of NBA Asia tour. This was the first of three preplanned games in China as David Stern is aiming at expanding NBA presence in this region. Another two games will be played in Macau, including one featuring Chinese All-Star team taking on the Magic. Cleveland grabbed the initiative and led almost all the way through the game before LeBron James (6'8''-F-84) went to the bench and did not appear on the court in the final stanza. Orlando used his absence to come from behind and celebrate a close 90:86 victory. It was a tie game with just over a minute to go in the fourth frame when Dwight Howard (6'10''-F-85) stepped inside and sank a basket to give Orlando a lead. Later Jameer Nelson (6'0''-G-82, college: St.Joseph's) hit 4/4 free throws and sealed the win for the Magic. Dwight Howard finished with 31 points and 14 boards for Orlando. LeBron James had 17 points and 4 steals in 28 minutes on the floor to pace the Cavaliers.
Meanwhile Toronto Raptors edged Zalgiris in their European tour encounter. Six Raptors players scored in double figures en route to a 105:99 win. T.J. Ford (5'10''-G-83, college: Texas) produced 13 points and 11 assists as Toronto improved to 2-2 record in preseason action.
Boston Celtics remained perfect in their preparation period as All-Star trio seems to glue well for more to come. Boston opened the home season with a comprehensive 101:61 victory over New York. Paul Pierce (6'7''-F-77, college: Kansas), Kevin Garnett and Ray Allen combined 49 points and 16 boards to lead their team to yet another win. The Celtics also held on defensively not allowing any of the Knicks players to score in double figures.

Orlando - Cleveland 90:86
Orlando: Dwight Howard 31+14 boards, Jameer Nelson 24
Cleveland: LeBron James 17, Larry Hughes 16

Zalgiris - Toronto 99:105
Zalgiris: Jonas Maciulis 24, De Juan Collins 16
Toronto: Jason Kapono 13, T.J. Ford 13+11 assists

Memphis - Indiana 115:122
Memphis: Rudy Gay 22, Juan Carlos Navarro 13
Indiana: Marquis Daniels 24+9 boards, Jermaine O'Neal 22+11 boards

Denver - Detroit 110:119
Denver: J.R. Smith 33, Bobby Jones 26
Detroit: Jason Maxiell 25+12 boards, Ronald Murray 21

Boston - New York 101:61
Boston: Paul Pierce 22, Ray Allen 14
New York: Zach Randolph 9+12 boards, Stephon Marbury 9

Utah - Philadelphia 101:93
Utah: Carlos Boozer 17+10 boards, Mehmet Okur 15
Philadelphia: Andre Miller 18, Willie Green 15

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NCAA

American International star signs with ABA team -by Carl Berman
The Manchester Millrats have announed the signing of combo guard John Huggins (6'2''-G-82, college: American Intern.). Huggins played for American International College in Springfield, MA; a divisional opponent of Southern New Hampshire Uuniversity in the New England-10 Conference.

In his senior year he reached double figures in scoring in 26 of the 27 games in which he appeared and scored at least 20 points on 17 occasions, including a season-high 30 points in a win at Saint Michaels. Huggins drained a school-record 83 three-pointers in 2005-06 and ranked among the NE-10 leaders in three-point field goals and free throw percentage (.817). Huggins had a string of 28 consecutive made free throws, one shy of the school record of 29.

Last season, Huggins played for Äanekosken in Huima, Finland where he posted averages of 19.9 points, 4.4 rebounds, and 2.4 assists per game.

In 2006, he led the Northeast-10 Conference in scoring with a 20.9 points-per-game average. Huggins was nominated as 2nd Team All Conference, 2nd Team All North-East, and 2nd Team All-NABC Northeast region. For his career, Huggins wound up as AIC's No. 4 all-time leading scorer with 1,786 points. He also made the second-most three-pointers in school history (235) and his 147 steals are good for sixth in school history. Huggins and Malik Moore, a former NE-10 Player of the Year, are the only two players in school history to rank in the top-10 in scoring, three-pointers and steals.

The addition of Huggins will make the Millrat's backcourt extremely hard to defend. Huggins, combined with versatile Charles Easterling and sharp shooting James Life, will make Marchester's backcourt talented, strong and flexible.



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NEW ZEALAND

Breakers nip Adelaide to stay tuned -by Eurobasket News
NZ Breakers - Adelaide 36ers 116:109

New Zealand Breakers emerged strong as they routed the Adelaide 36ers at home today. Rick Rickert (210-F-83, college: Minnesota) exploded with 30 points and 13 boards for the hosts and helped the Breakers improve to 2-2 record in the ladder. New Zealand team got to somehow a slow start of the game and allowed the visitors grab a narrow 30:26 lead after the first 12 minutes. The Breakers remained at a striking distance but still could not gain necessary speed as Adelaide stayed in front. The 36ers went into the dressing room leading by 2 points 54:52. Kiwis switched to a full-court pressure for some episodes in the third quarter and it finally resuted in the hosts taking a lead. Adelaide were not even thinking of giving it up and Mike Michael Chappell (205-F-78, college: Michigan St.) nailed a huge trey late in the third term to return the advantage for the 36ers. But Kirk Penney (194-G-80, college: Wisconsin) responded with a three-pointer of his own and the Breakers entered the fourth stanza ahead 84:82. Adelaide opened the final frame with a 7:0 rally but the home team refused to surrender and led by Rick Rickert. Kirk Penney and veteran Tony Ronaldson (203-F/C-72) ensured the winning outcome in the tense final minutes.
Kirk Penney notched 26 points for the Breakers. Tony Ronaldson finally found his touch in the season netting 19 points and dishing out 8 assists for the winners. Brett Maher (188-G-73) had 27 points and 5 assists for the 36ers. Mike Michael Chappell secured 21 points, 6 boards and 6 assists in a loss.
New Zealand Breakers sank 44% from the field and 78% from charity stripe. The Breakers dominated the boards 51:41 and committed only 4 turnovers.
The Breakers now travel to Singapore to take on the local Slingers on October 21.

NZ Breakers: Rick Rickert 30+13 boards, Kirk Penney 26, Tony Ronaldson 19+8 assists
Adelaide: Brett Maher 27, Mike Michael Chappell 21

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PANAMA

Pinnock in NBA Pre-Season -by Miguel Sanchiz

PANAMA - Danilo JR Pinnock played for the Portland Trail Blazers in the NBA preseason.

In the game where Denver defeated Portland 1128-102 Pinnock scored 2 points and grabbed 4 rebounds.

He was waived by the Blazers. Last year he played in the NBA D-League with Arkansas and represented Panama in the 2007 FIBA Americas Championship.

PANAMA - Danilo JR Pinnock played for the Portland Trail Blazers in the NBA preseason. In the game where Denver defeated Portland 1128-102 Pinnock scored 2 points and grabbed 4 rebounds. He was waived by the Blazers. Last year he played in the NBA D-League with Arkansas and represented Panama in the 2007 FIBA Americas Championship.


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PBL

Surprise: the Ripknees won' t play in 2007-08 -by Gianni Pascucci
Local media is writing that the PBL team Minnesota Ripknees will not operate this season. It seems that the Ripknees had trouble finding a home arena for this season but are expected to join the 10-team league for the 2008-09 season. To replace Minnesote, the Premier Basketball League announced the addition of a new team named Arkansas Impact, based in Little Rock, AR, for the inaugural PBL season beginning in January of 2008. The team will be owned by Mike Land and is scheduled to play in the 7,150-seat Barton Coliseum on the grounds of the Arkansas State Fairgrounds in Little Rock.

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POLAND

II Round of DBE -by Michal Falkowski
Polpharma Starogard Gdanski - Polpak Swiecie 79-85 (17-23, 18-15, 19-27, 25-20)
Polpharma: D.Copeland 20 (1), D.Witos 14 (1), L.Majewski 13 (2), Z.Marculewicz 7 (1), P.Leonczyk 6, R.Sirsnins 6 (1), B.Lubeck 4, E.Dies 4, H.Hall 4, K.Zakrzewski 1
Polpak: M.Brkic 19 (1), M.Tuljkovic 16 (2), B.Dixon 16 (3), P.Kikowski 13 (2), D.Harris 8 (2), E.Hicks 6, L.Seweryn 3 (1), S.Jovanovic 2, S.Hajric 2

Bank BPS Basket Kwidzyn - Slask Wroclaw 59-66 (15-22, 15-7, 16-22, 13-15)
Bank BPS: M.King 16 (2), C.Eldridge 13 (1), D.Puncewicz 7, T.Andrzejewski 7, H.Mazur 6, M.Ansley 4, W.Zurawski 2, B.Potulski 2, J.Keep 2, P.Dabrowski 0
Slask: D.Gai 14, D.Robinson 12, J.Sullinger 11 (1), O.Stevic 10, D.Tomczyk 7 (1), B.Jancikin 3, A.Kiausas 3, S.Fountain 2, W.Wallace 2, K.Chanas 2, B.Diduszko 0

Prokom Trefl Sopot - Energa Czarni Slupsk 62-58 (19-15, 11-10, 18-16, 14-17)
Prokom Trefl: M.Gurovic 19 (3), T.Best 13 (2), F.Dylewicz 9 (1), D.Wagner 9 (1), D.Slanina 5 (1), T.Masiulis 3, C.Harissis 2, R.Wolkowyski 2, K.Roszyk 0
Energa Czarni: A.Kudriavtsev 19, O.Barlett 12, M.Cesnauskis 10 (1), T.Kikerpill 6 (2), E.Scott 4, J.Hughes 3, P.Frasunkiewicz 2, P.Szczotka 2, L.Wisniewski 0.

PGE Turow Zgorzelec - SPEC Polonia Warsaw 75-56
PGE Turow: D.Logan 27 (5), A.Rodriguez 15, T.Kelati 11 (3), M.Scekic 8, D.Drobnjak 7, S.Ljubotina 3 (1), H.Nana 3, I.Kitzinger 1, M.Jarmakowicz 0, V.Petrovic 0, R.Skibniewski 0, R.Witka 0
SPEC Polonia: K.Szubarga 13 (1), Richardson 9 (1), Riley 9 (1), C.Rivera 8 (1), B.Sarzalo 7 (1), P.Miller 6, M.Przybylski 2, H.Radke 1, P.Szybilski 1, T.Pisarczyk 0

Anwil Wloclawek - Gornik Walbrzych 76-79 (17-23, 23-22, 16-18, 20-16)
Anwil: G.Henderson 14 (2), B.Woloszyn 14 (4), Z.Bialek 13 (2), L.Koszarek 13 (1), A.Dunn 10, V.Vasylius 5, P.Okafor 3, M.Raczynski 2, W.Grudzinski 2
Gornik: T.Zablocki 19 (5), K.Clarkson 15, K.Ercegovic 13, L.Wichniarz 11 (2), B.Spencer 10 (2), T.Archie 9 (1), R.Glapinski 2, M.Saran 0

Atlas Stal Ostrow Wielkopolski - Kotwica Kolobrzeg 104-94 (24-21, 22-25, 25-22, 33-26)
Atlas Stal: B.Hughes 25 (3), W.Szawarski 24 (5), G.Kadziulis 19 (1), R.Boykin 10 (2), J.Oden 8, M.Wilson 7, C.Bennett 6 (1), M.Sroka 5 (1), S.Stefanovic 0
Kotwica: C.Daniels 24 (1), R.Bigus 13, T.Mrozek 12 (2), S.Barrett 11, S.Merritt 9, B.Armstrong 9 (1), A.Snow 9 (1), S.Machowski 7 (1), M.Fabianczyk 0, M.Bree 0

Break: AZS Koszalin

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RUSSIA

CSKA to reach 5-0, Triumph 4-0 -by Eurobasket News

Two leaders so far in the Russian Superleague reached another win last night. CSKA and Triumph easily overcame their opponents.


CSKA Moscow spurted in the opening quarter over CSK VVS-Samara not to worry about the rest of the game. After 31:13 the hosts led to 97:62 win. Alexei Savrasenko (215-C-79) and David Andersen (212-C-80) led the winners with 14 points each. Trajan Langdon (192-G-76, college: Duke) ended up with 13, while Lithuanian Ramunas Siskauskas (197-G-78) added 9. Yaniv Green (206-F-80, agency: Arik Krayn Services) ended up with 14 points in the losing effort. CSKA improved to 5-0, while Samara stay winless at 0-3.

Triumph looks very ambitious this season and celebrated already 4th straight win. Last night the team beat University-Ugra (Surgut) 88 : 72. Three excellent quarters were the main reason of the success. Even though the visitors won the last quarter 6:18 it did not upset the hosts at all. Sergei Toporov (197-F-81) paced the winners with 14 points. Terrell Lyday (190-G-79, college: BYU) added 11, while three other players ended up with 9. CHADNI Grey poured in 16 points in defeat as Urga has 0-2 record. Triumph follows CSKA and stays second with 4-0.

CSKA (Moscow) - CSK VVS-Samara (Samara) 97 : 62 (31:13, 24:16, 14:20, 28:13)
CSKA: Alexei Savrasenko 14+8 rebs, David Andersen 14, Trajan Langdon 13, Ramunas Siskauskas 9
VVS-Samara: Yaniv Green 14, Alex Scales (192-G-78, college: Oregon) 14

Triumph - University-Ugra (Surgut) 88 : 72 (24:18, 34:19, 24:17, 6:18)
Triumph: Sergei Toporov 14, Terrell Lyday 11
University-Ugra: CHADNI Grey 16, KEVIN Flecher 15+18 rebs



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S.AFRICA

Newtown Battlegrounds this Weekend -by Tshepo Ditshego
Newtown Management District and ESPN is bringing us the Newtown Battlegrounds on the 20th October, 24th November and the 8th of December. There will be League of Pros basketball playoffs, street soccer, 3 on 3 wheelchair basketball (Whaaat?), Hip Hop Dance and MC battles live on Mary Fitzgerald Square in Newtown. There are lots of prizes to be won including, DStv Decoders and much more. Entertainment will be provided by Proverb and his crew. Catch all the action from 10am.

ESPN presents the League of Pros basketball playoffs this month. Catch these games on Friday evening the 19th at Wits, on Saturday the 20th in Newtown and the finals on Friday 26th back at Wits Hall 29 from 6pm. Come check out Gauteng's top 4 ladies' and men's teams battle it out for the LOP championships. There will be entertainment and lots of prizes to be won. For more information about the LOP and how to join the league in 2008, email us on info@darkchild.co.za.

ESPN, the worldwide leader in sports, now on Channel 230, only on DStv, So Much More.

The League of Professionals Launched at Wits University -by Tshepo Ditshego
Basketball in South Africa has had its fair share of excitement in its early days with hip hop riding on the back of basketball in the 90's, currently basketball is riding on the back of hip hop. Well, a few current and ex-basketball players have come together to form a privately owned league which promises to be one of the top basketball leagues in South Africa if not in Africa. The aim of this league is to create a well organized and fun filled basketball event that will put South African basketball back on the map and hopefully entice sponsors to have another look at basketball as a possible marketing opportunity.

The league was founded by the following people:

1. Cabby Magongwa - PR & Communications
2. Naftal Chongo - Technical & Dispute Resolution
3. Tshiamo Ngakane - GM & Policy
4. Terry Nxumalo - Venue & Fixtures
5. Peter Makhubela & Thami Kukuleka - Development League Managers

Currently, the league has 9 men and 5 ladies teams and many other clubs have requested to be included in the 2008 league and beyond. The LOP's biggest focus is to develop basketball and from 2008, no team will be allowed to play in the league, unless it will be participating in all 3 divisions i.e. Men, Ladies & Development division. Development division teams can be made of clubs adopting high school teams. The following make up the LOP participating clubs:

Men Premier Division (MP) Teams Ladies Premier Division (LP) Teams

1 REBELS 1 WITS UNIV
2 WITS UNIV 2 TUKS UNIV
3 MIDRAND UNIV 3 MAMELODI BEES
4 VAAL UNIV 4 VAAL UNI
5 TUKS UNIV 5 WANDERERS SCORPIONS
6 WITS ALUMNI
7 WANDERERS SCORPIONS

The 2007 season will be a short one from 31st August till 27th October 2007, however 2008 going forward, the season will run from March to October. All 2007 games will be at Wits University Hall 29 every Fridays with the 1st game at 18H30 and 2nd game at 20H00, however, the main games will be played at the East Campus outdoor court, which is our way of taking the game to the people.

Spectators will enjoy great games with music and dancing entertainment during half-time.

Friday nights will never be the same again as Friday Nights are now Basketball Nights!

This league is supported by the Johannesburg Basketball Association.

For Marketing, PR & Communications issues, please do not hesitate to contact me.

Best regards
Cabby Magongwa
Tel: 011 494 4077
Mob: 082 926 3733
Email: cabby@darkchild.co.za

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SCOTLAND

Rocks Fall to Riders -by Eurobasket News
Jelson Homes DMU Leicester Riders solid start to the season continued north of the border with a 69-74 win at SAMG Verve Scottish Rocks.

The Riders move into a tie for fourth position alongside Marshall MK Lions and Kularoos Plymouth Raiders, while Rocks slip a place to joint eighth with BiG Storage Cheshire Jets.

After a tight, scrappy first quarter, which the home side shaded 19-15, defence ruled once again up to half time. Riders had reduced a 25-17 deficit to just one point with eight seconds left before Rocks scored the final five points of the half.

This included the referees summoning Rocks point-guard Robert Yanders (180-G-79, college: Missouri St.) from the locker room to take two free throws during the interval which put his team 31-26 in front.

Riders showed signs of an improvement on offence during the third quarter taking the lead at 37-38 with 6.30 left in the period. This advantage was stretched to 48-52 heading into the final stanza.

An exciting fourth quarter saw Rocks fight back from 58-63 down to 69-68 up in the final minute thanks to three three-pointers from Bilal Clarance (195-G/F-79, agency: Rasmussen Services, college: NW Missouri St.) and a two from Sterling Davis.

However, the Riders wouldn't be denied and after Chad McKnight tied the score at 69-69 with a free throw, Terrance Woodyard nailed a three with six seconds left to put the visitors in front. Darren Mills iced the game with a last second two.
Courtesy of: www.bbl.org.uk

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SERBIA

Crvena Zvezda and Partizan on the top -by Dragan Jankovski
Crvena Zvezda beat Union Olimpija at home 92-81 and remained on the top together with Partizan who also has 4 wins and 1 defeat. The biggest advantage during the game Zvezda had at the beginning of the third quarter, 67-52. Later Olimpija succeeded to get closer on 87-81 but that was all. Tadija Dragicevic (205-F-86) was unstoppable netting 30 points for Crvena Zvezda while Jasmin Hukic (204-G/F-79, agency: Beo Basket) added 19 points and 5 rebounds for Slovenian team.


Crvena Zvezda - Union Olimpija 92:81
(24:24,22:17,22:16,24:24)

Crvena Zvezda: Markovic 17 (6 rebs, 4 as), Kikanovic 7 (5 rebs), Cook 17 (5 as), Kovac 5 (5 rebs), Misanovic 10, Dragicevic 30 (3 as), Cvetkovic 2, Sljivancanin 4, Bakic
DNP: Gromyko, Tica, Rondovic.
Union Olimpija: Doncic 11, Booker 6 (5 rebs), Mocnik, Dragic 14 (5 rebs, 6 as), Hukic 19 (5 rebs), Bailey 17, Anderson 5, Zupan 4, Taylor 5 (5 rebs)
DNP: Begic.

FMP and Hemofarm celebrated -by Dragan Jankovski
Hemofarm STADA easily beat Siroki Prima Pivo at home 76-64 recording second win in Adriatic league. Orange team opened game well making run 12-2 but Siroki equalized after couple of minutes of the second quarter. Once again Hemofarm made run 13-2 and advantage which was unreachable for the visitors until the end. Slovenian guard Nebojsa Joksimovic (193-G-81, agency: Beo Basket) led Hemofarm adding 14 points and racking up 5 assists while center Vladan Vukosavljevic (206-F/C-84, agency: Beo Basket) finished the game with 13 points and 5 rebounds. On the other side Ivan Tomas (192-G-81) was the best in Siroki scoring 16 points including 7 assists.

FMP outplayed Vojvodina Srbijagas 82-75 also without any bigger effort. On the half time Panthers already made advantage of 9 points while at the middle of the last quarter they doubled it, 76-58. In the last couple of minutes Vojvodina just succeeded to make this defeat acceptable. FMP got 23 points from Bojan Krstovic (194-G-80) while Predrag Samardziski (215-C-86) followed him recording double-double, 16 points and 10 rebounds. Milos Bojovic (198-G-81) added 15 points, 5 rebounds and 3 assists for Vojvodina Srbijagas, who has one win and four defeats.


Hemofarm STADA - Siroki Prima Pivo 76:64
(17:16,23:16,21:16,15:16)

Hemofarm STADA: Pavkovic 9 (4 as), Trailovic, Joksimovic 14 (5 as), Bozovic 11 (6 rebs), Markovic 2 (9 as), Rakic 11, Jagodnik 8 (4 rebs), Borisov 6, Marjanovic 2, Vukosavljevic 13 (5 rebs)
DNP: Simonovic, Mladenovic.
Siroki Prima Pivo: Corey 7, Stemberger 4 (4 as), Perincic 9 (5 rebs), Tomas 16 (7 as), Dijan 14 (5 rebs), Zupic 3 (5 rebs), Sola, Spralja 11 (9 rebs)
DNP: Bubalo, Susak.


FMP - Vojvodina Srbijagas 82:75
(21:16,24:20,22:16,15:23)

FMP: Stefanovic 2, Djerasimovic 3, Erceg 6, Labovic 17, Lazic 5, Krstovic 23, Macvan 2, Protic, Micic 4, Zigeranovic 2, Samardzijski 16 (10 rebs), Covic 2.
Vojvodina Srbijagas: Duvnjak 8, Golubovic 13 (10 rebs), Pekovic, Lekic 2, Paunic 3, Markovic 13 (9 rebs, 4 st), Nemeth 8, Bajic, Djordjevic 13, Bojovic 15 (5 rebs, 3 as).

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SINGAPORE

More improvement needed -by Eurobasket News
Singapore Slingers - Melbourne Tigers 96:105

The Slingers showed they are on the right pace of improvement but it was still not enough to edge the Tigers. Melbourne came to Singapore for the second time in the season following the first round victorious trip and once again looked a bit better. The visitors got to a flying start and posted an early 15:4 lead. Chris Cameron (193-G-75, college: Tulane) scored 7 consecutive points for the Slingers as they craved their way back into the contest and cut the deficit to just 3 points by the end of the frame 25:28.
The encounter turned out to be a close affair from now on and the hosts demonstrated some sparks of impressive basketball. The Tigers remained ahead at halftime 54:47 and started to clear away in the third stanza. They were closely guarding Mike Helms (184-G-80, college: Oakland) and rolled to an 83:66 advantage after three quarters of action.
Mike Helms however revived in the final period notching 15 points for the Slingers but it was not enough for the home side to celebrate a win. Melbourne ensured their 7th straight victory in the season, while Singapore fell to 1-6 record in the ladder.
Stephen Hoare (201-F-75, college: N.Idaho JC) led the Tigers with 20 points. David Barlow (205-F-83, college: Metro St.) added 17 points, while Chris Anstey (213-C-75) contributed 15 points and 14 boards for the winners. Mike Helms finished with game-high 21 points for Singapore. Blagoj Janev (203-F-84, college: New Hampshire) provided 17 points in defeat.
Singapore sank solid 50.7% from the field and 72% from free throw line. The teams pulled down 39 boards apiece but the hosts suffered 17 turnovers. Moreover the Tigers' bench outscored their counterparts 51:27.

Singapore: Mike Helms 21, Blagoj Janev 17
Melbourne: Stephen Hoare 20, David Barlow 17, Chris Anstey 15+14 boards

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SPAIN

Los Barrios: Moss passes the try out, DeRogatis not -by Francisco Martinez
Adrian Moss (204-C/F-81, agency: Rasmussen Services, college: Florida) is a new memeber of the roster of Los barrios and he can debut in the next round of the league after convince the members of the technical staff about his capacities. Meanwhile, Ross DeRogatis (186-G-83, agency: Elfus-Siegel Management (ESM), college: San Diego) has been reported to not enter the roster.

ACB Round Up Wednesday Round 3 -by Paul Nilsen
In Wednesday's game we will start at the bottom of the classifications where Valladolid went into their home clash with ViveMenorca knowing that whoever lost this game would have the unwanted 0-3 record. In a close game it looked as though the visiting team had taken the initiative but whatever Javier Imbroda said to Valladolid at the half time break worked and they eased their way to a fine 95-78 win in the second half. Valladolid had the in-form Frenchman Joseph Gomis to thank with his 21 points as well as big man Vasco Vassil Evtimov (207-C/F-77, agency: Interperformances, college: N.Carolina) who collected 10 points and 10 rebounds. Some clinical outside shooting that included a trio of three-pointers from Rodrigo San Miguel also helped put Menorca away who struggled as Chris Moss had one of his rare quieter games.

Akasvayu Girona preserved their unbeaten start to the season although only just by squeezing out a one point win against an improved Valencia side. Although the visitors now have a 1-2 record after this latest 83-82 defeat, they have faced both Girona and Real away in their first three games. Girona meanwhile are relying more and more on Marc Gasol who many said had a less effective season last time but is really on his game at the moment. His 19 points and 5 rebounds provided the foundation for the narrow win although Valencia came mightily close to a win with home grown Valencia born 19 year old Academy player Victor Claver (206-F/C-88) having the game of his life. His 20 points came by way of a perfect shooting performance from the field with only a few missed free-throws and the final result spoiling his chance of a perfect night. Certainly fans, players and many clubs will now be tracking the progress of the young player.

In the other game played, Unicaja collected their second home win of the season wirth a comfortable 80-56 win over Polaris World Murcia. Cheered on to victory by the usual near-10 000 fans at the Martin Carpena, Malaga put the visitors to the sword early by establishing a 14 point first quarter lead. Some free-flowing team basketball left Murcia helpless and again with a healthy 19 assists, Unicaja showed they can be an effective team this year and improve on last seasons final placings which saw them only just secure a play-off spot. A terrific perimeter shooting performance by forward Marcus Haislip (207-F-80, college: Tennessee) the highlight of the evening as he top scored with 19 points.

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U.KINGDOM

Riders Collect Win At Struggling Scottish Rocks -by Paul Nilsen
Jelson Homes DMU Leicester Riders solid start to the season continued north of the border with a 69-74 win at SAMG Verve Scottish Rocks.

The Riders move into a tie for fourth position alongside Marshall MK Lions and Kularoos Plymouth Raiders, while Rocks slip a place to joint eighth with BiG Storage Cheshire Jets.

After a tight, scrappy first quarter, which the home side shaded 19-15, defence ruled once again up to half time. Riders had reduced a 25-17 deficit to just one point with eight seconds left before Rocks scored the final five points of the half.

This included the referees summoning Rocks point-guard Robert Yanders (180-G-79, college: Missouri St.) from the locker room to take two free throws during the interval which put his team 31-26 in front.

Riders showed signs of an improvement on offence during the third quarter taking the lead at 37-38 with 6.30 left in the period. This advantage was stretched to 48-52 heading into the final stanza.

An exciting fourth quarter saw Rocks fight back from 58-63 down to 69-68 up in the final minute thanks to three three-pointers from Bilal Clarance (195-G/F-79, agency: Rasmussen Services, college: NW Missouri St.) and a two from SteSterling Davis (200-F-77, college: Tulane).

However, the Riders wouldn't be denied and after Chad McKnight (201-F-84, college: Morehead St.) tied the score at 69-69 with a free throw, Terrence Woodyard (206-F/G, college: W.Carolina) nailed a three with six seconds left to put the visitors in front. Darren Mills iced the game with a last second two.

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U.S.VIRGIN ISL.

Drexel picked to finish 4th in CAA, but Elegar gets first-team honors -by David Edole
Drexel was picked to finish fourth in the Colonial Athletic Association's preseason poll released yesterday at the conference's basketball media day.
Voting is done by the league's coaches, sports information directors and media.

Drexel center Frank Elegar (206-C-86), who averaged 16 points and 6.7 rebounds last season, was named to the preseason All-CAA first team.

The Dragons had their most wins in more than a decade last season, going 23-8, earned a spot in the NIT for the fourth time in 5 years and drew national attention for being left out of the NCAA Tournament field.

George Mason, with all five starters returning from the team that reached the conference title game, was picked to win the CAA. Virginia Commonwealth was chosen second and Old Dominion was third.

Drexel was followed by Hofstra, UNC Wilmington, James Madison, Northeastern, William & Mary, Delaware, Georgia State and Towson.

VCU junior guard Eric Maynor was named the preseason player of the year. He averaged 13.9 points per game last season and was ranked fifth in the nation in assists (6.4 assists per game).

Delaware senior forward Herb Courtney (Hatboro-Horsham) was named to the first team.

The CAA also announced the most comprehensive television package in its history, with 38 games on the various ESPN networks, including four regular-season games and the conference championship game on ESPN or ESPN2, and more than 30 games among the various Comcast networks. Drexel has 15 TV appearances scheduled - 10 on CN8, two on Comcast SportsNet and three on ESPNU.

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URUGUAY

Batista signs with Maccabi Tel Aviv -by Hector Lopez
Esteban Batista (208-F/C-83) signed a two years contract with Maccabi Tel Aviv and he will fly next Saturday to Israel, the player announced. Batista finished his contract with the Boston Celtics last Tuesday 16 looking for an opportunity to get more time on the court, he said. The first Uruguayan ever to play within the NBA had only one preseason game with the Celtics (7 points, 5 rebounds 19 minutes) before he decide to left. The Israeli championship is scheduled to begin Oct. 28.



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Women News

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CYPRUS - Women

FIBA Euro Cup: AEL beat Dunav to record first European victory for Cyprus -by Erodotos Miltiadous
K.V. Imperial AEL became the first Cypriot women club to achieve a win in European basketball competition. The Limassol side beat Bulgarian team Dunav 63-62 on Thursday (18/10) for the first leg of the knock-out stage of the FIBA EuroCup. The second leg is in a week's time at Bulgaria, and the team that advances will qualify for the group stage of the competition.

Biljana Pavicevic scored two free-throws at the late stages of the game to record the win for the Cypriot club. AEL had the support of about 800 fans at the Melford Arena in Limassol.

Top scorer and MVP of AEL was American Betty Lennox (173-G-76) who scored 28 points and gathered 10 rebounds.

Periods: 15-18, 27-36, 46-49, 63-62.
K.V. Imperial AEL: Phedonos, Stoenescu 6, Papadopoulou 8, Pavicevic 10, Lennox 28, Pinter, Garner 11.
Dunav: Nandeva 10, Peteva 16, Ribova 3, Yiordanova 11, Georgieva 5, Miteva, Asenova 11, Mirceva.

KV IMPERIAL AEL Limassol roster -by Chris Mammides
The roster of the Limassol team for it's European duties is the following:
KV IMPERIAL AEL Limassol

4. Marija Petrovic 17/4/1986 1.83 PF
5. Stalo Phedonos (183-F-77) 17/1/1977 1.83 PF
6. Ancuta Stoenescu (171-G-80) 1/1/1980 1.76 F/SG
7. Loukia Larkou (171-G-88) 16/6/1988 1.71 SG
8. Kalia Papadopoulou (166-G-80) 15/3/1980 1.66 PG
9. Aphroditi Sarka (169-G-80) 4/3/1980 1.70 SG
10. Biljana Pavicevic (191-F-80) 17/7/1980 1.91 C/PF
11. BETTY LENNOX 4/12/1976 1.72 SG/PG
12. Ersi Kyriakou 18/12/1978 1.80 F
13. Gianna Kleanthous 9/10/1974 1.77 PF/F
14. ANDREA PINTER 19/3/1980 1.71 PG/SG
15. ANDREA GARDNER 23/12/1979 1.92 C
- Dorina Ioannidou 7/4/1979 1.62 PG
- Christiana Menelaou 19/7/1990 1.58 PG/SG

Head Coach is Marios Thrasivoulides (4th seazon)

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EUROCUP (W) - Women

FIBA Euro Cup: AEL beat Dunav to record first European victory for Cyprus -by Eurobasket
K.V. Imperial AEL became the first Cypriot women club to achieve a win in European basketball competition. The Limassol side beat Bulgarian team Dunav 63-62 on Thursday (18/10) for the first leg of the knock-out stage of the FIBA EuroCup. The second leg is in a week's time at Bulgaria, and the team that advances will qualify for the group stage of the competition.

Biljana Pavicevic scored two free-throws at the late stages of the game to record the win for the Cypriot club. AEL had the support of about 800 fans at the Melford Arena in Limassol.

Top scorer and MVP of AEL was American Betty Lennox (173-G-76) who scored 28 points and gathered 10 rebounds.

Periods: 15-18, 27-36, 46-49, 63-62.
K.V. Imperial AEL: Phedonos, Stoenescu 6, Papadopoulou 8, Pavicevic 10, Lennox 28, Pinter, Garner 11.
Dunav: Nandeva 10, Peteva 16, Ribova 3, Yiordanova 11, Georgieva 5, Miteva, Asenova 11, Mirceva.

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FRANCE - Women

NT: Working group formed after disappointment of missing the olympics -by Leslie Anderson

Jacques Commeres' announcement after the defeat against Belgium at EuroBasket about him resigning as head coach of France as he felt that he had failed in meeting any of his objectives in Italy, has not been officially accepted yet. But today the FFBB put a working group in place. For more details read here



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ISRAEL - Women

Official 07/08 Season Kickoff -by Eurobasket News
The first ever kickoff dinner for the women's league was held tonight, with all nine teams in attendance. The team Capitans posed for a group photo - it's inside.

The first jumpball of the 07/08 season will be tossed up on Thursday, but tonight the season was officially opened with a festive event. All players, coaches and management personnel gathered to sit down for dinner, watch a clip of last season's highlights, and applaud the National Team who was mentioned in both speeches. Next year, the plan is to reveal the schedule in the event.
Courtesy of: http://www.safsal.co.il



Nothing Foreign About Them -by Eurobasket News
Out of the 22 Americans who'll be dribbling on our courts this season, only seven haven't played here before. Seven of them have played at least three seasons in Israel already. We caught up with three of the nicest players who we don't feel right calling foreigners to find out why they keep coming back, how's their Hebrew, and more. Answers - inside.

"For example. yesterday we were talking about Kibutz, and most foreigners don't know what that is, and I'm like I've been here forever! of course I know what that is and of course I've been to one". That was Edwina Brown (175-G-78, agency: Ronsport, college: Texas)'s way of demonstrating her relative Israeli-ness. For Brown, who'll play for Ramat Hen this season, this is her 4th season in the holy land. Crystal Johnson (183-F-81, college: W.Virg.Wesl.) of Bnei Yehuda and Brandi McCain of Ashdod are also starting their 4th basketball season in Israel.

"It's like my second home", said Johnson. "Just this year I noticed I've been here 4 years". "It feels like home", McCain agreed. "This is the first time I got to spend the summer here. I had a good time, I enjoy Israel, I enjoy the people. There's something about Ashdod that I like, too". It's interesting to note all three players spent at least one season in Ashdod, and maybe it's not a coincidence.

The best Hebrew Award went to Edwina Brown without much competition. She won for being able to count to 100 (I checked), and name six of the seven days of the week (nobody likes Mondays). By the way, they all understand Hebrew much better than they can speak it, so be careful not to gossip around them.

Before we continue, here's a short introduction for each. Edwina Brown (5'9, 28) is a guard who can play four positions, a great rebounder and leader. She first came to Israel in the 02/03 season to Maccabi Raanana, and became the league's leading scorer. A year after that she led Ramat Hen to the finals, then left Israel for two years, tore her Achilles tandem, and returned to Ashdod last season to earn her second 'Safsal' 1st team award. Brown was a big star in college, won the Wade trophy and drafted 3rd overall in 2000. She played 130 WNBA games over five seasons, most recently in 2006, and averaged 5.1 points per game on her career.

Brandi McCain (5'3, 28) is an incredibly quick point guard, a great scorer and good passer. She arrived in Israel midway through the 04/05 season to the 0 - 10 Ashdod, who she single handedly kept in division I. She's been there ever since, team Capitan. In the last two seasons she was among the league's top four scorers. McCain was also a big star in college, drafted 24th in 2002 and played one season in the WNBA.

Last but not least, Crystal Johnson (6'0, 27) is an undersized post who makes up for it with heart and determination. She first came to Israel in 02/03 when she played for Ashdod, played in Motzkin the year after that, left Israel for two years and got married (in case Givens rings a better bell), and played in Turkey. Last season she returned to Israel and averaged Israeli league career highs with 14.7 points and 10.1 rebounds per game while leading Bnei Yehuda to a very surprising 3rd place finish.

There's no doubt that together they've racked up serious mileage on our courts, and there isn't a player, coach or ref they don't already know. A lot has changed since they got here, and each remembered different things from when she was new around here. "Just knowing how to get to places, going to the supermarket, it's much easier now", said Johnson proudly while her two first-year teammates listened in awe. "I didn't know it was like a city environment, I thought it was like sand", Brown admitted. "At first, everybody used to be like don't get on the bus, don't do this, don't do that", McCain remembered. "But I rode the bus. I was nervous the first time, but after that it's just something in everyday life".

Back in the states some people still don't get why they keep coming back. "A lot of people think I'm crazy because all they see on TV is what goes on in the war zones or whatever, so they think I'm crazy for being here", McCain said. "But I actually think it's safer than America. Everybody thinks I'm crazy but I like it here". For Johnson, it's a different story. "They're not worried anymore, and they need to come visit", she said.

Towards the end we moved to a more serious issue, and they all agreed the league improved over the time they've been here. "The talent level was high from when I first came here, WNBA players and all", said Johnson. "I think it's a good place for Americans to come play, and the Israelis improved also". "I think it has improved because teams become more professional, bring in good Americans and good bosmans, and the Israeli players are getting better each year because they're playing around this type of players", said Brown. "Coaches are getting wiser, bringing new coaches like Daliah in Ashdod". "It was a really strong league when I first came and around the Lebanon war people were scared to come", said McCain. "But I think this year it's gonna be a better league. It seems like this year any team can win on any given night so that says that the league improved to me".

When asked about how many foreigners each team should be allowed to have, they all agreed as well, and by the way the interviews were done separately. "I think three is enough", McCain said the exact sentence Brown and Johnson told me. "If you want the league to be better in the future you gotta do more for the Israelis and concentrate more on them".

Yep, no doubt. These are no foreigners.
Courtesy of: http://www.safsal.co.il

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NEW ZEALAND - Women

Lisa Pardon leads Bendigo to their second win -by Eurobasket News
Tall Ferns Lisa Pardon (173-G-82, college: Oregon St.) was among leaders on the court as Bendigo Spirit gained their second win in the WNBL season. They outscored Townsville Fire 75:73 and climbed on top of the ladder. Lisa Pardon appeared in the starting five and topscored for Bendigo. She finished with 19 points (7/13 FG, 1/3 3pt, 4/7 FT), 4 rebounds, 3 assists and a steal for the winners.
However later in the week Bendigo were slowed down by the Perth Lynx. The Lynx celebrated their first win in the season edging the Spirit 80:67. Lisa Pardon nailed 8 points (2/9 FG, 2/6 3pt, 2/2 FT), pulled down 2 rebounds, made 2 assists, 1 block and 1 steal in 29 minutes of action. Bendigo remained at the second spot in the WNBL ladder. They next face Adelaide and then host Christchurch and AIS.
Meanwhile another Tall Fern Angela Marino (166-G-86) could not help her Adeleade Lightning to succeed in the second game of teh season. The Lightning were beaten by the Dandenong Rangers 55:68 at home. Angela Marino contributed 3 points (1/5 FG, 1/3 FT), 4 boards and 1 assist in a loss. Adelaide fell to 1-1 record in the ladder and faces Bendigo on October 19th.
Another Kiwi in WNBL Alicia Poto (46-G-78) took part in double-overtime thriller as Sydney Uni Flames overcame canberra Capitals 112:102. Alicia Poto delivered 22 points (8/18 FG, 3/8 3pt, 3/4 FT), 8 boards, 3 assists and 2 steals for the winners.

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PHILIPPINES - Women

Philippine Women's NT bags fourth straight win in SEABA -by Hector Santos
THE RP-CEBUANA Lhuillier women's basketball sneaked past Malaysia, 67-65, yesterday to sweep the elimination round of the Southeast Asian Basketball (SEABA) Women's Championships in Phuket, Thailand.

Fil-American Vicki Brick (166-G-81, college: Maryland) scored on a baseline jumper with three seconds to go to break the last deadlock at 65-65 and lift the Philippines to its fourth straight win.

The Filipinos, who got the needed lift from Fil-American Vicky Brick anew, and they go for a finals berth against Indonesia at 3 p.m. today (Manila time) in the semifinals of the five-nation tournament.

The other finals berth will be disputed by Thailand and Indonesia. The championship game is set at 5 p.m. tomorrow.

The RP women's team, back in international competition after a four-year layoff, took control early and raced to an 11-point halftime lead in the game marred by a fight towards the end.

The game was headed for a thrilling finish with the count tied at 60-all when Malaysia lost its top player for a punching foul.

Late Wednesday, the Filipinos thumped Singapore, 78-59, for their third straight victory and the solo lead in the five-team tournament.

The Filipinos started the tournament with a come-from-behind 80-76 win over Thailand and followed this up with a 70-54 drubbing of Indonesia.

In the game against Singapore, Pipay Villanueva boomed with four three point shots to lead the Filipinos, whose main player, Fil-Am Vicky Brick, was rested by Gaston after scoring 10 points in anticipation of a grue;ing match with the Malaysians.

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POLAND - Women

FGE MVP - Gameday 1: Joei Clyburn - eval: 35 -by Wojciech Strzebinczyk
After 1st gameday of Ford Germaz Extraleague season 2007/2008 MVP title took Cukierki Odra Brzeg forward - Joei Clyburn (185-G/F-84, college: Xavier). American player against Arcus SMS Lomianki spent on the floor 31 minutes and recorded 32 points (8/9 2fg, 2/2 3pt, 10/11 ft), blocked 5 balls, 1 assist and 1 steal. She also made 2 turnovers and total evaluation results was 35 raiting points.

According to www.PLKK.pl

FGE Gameday 1: Newcomer won in Torun! -by Wojciech Strzebinczyk
Nikita Bell (183-G/F-83, college: N.Carolina) lead to win in Torun her team Utex ROW Rybnik on Energa Katarzynki in 1st gameday of new season in Polish FGE. It was biggest surprise of yesterday gameday. Very close to another big result was MUKS Poznan which lost in Lodz with LKS only by 2 points. In rest games won expected teams so CCC Polkowice beat AZS Jelenia Gora, Cukierki Brzeg won with Arcus SMS, Duda Leszno was damaged by Wisla Krakow and INEA Poznan lost against Lotos PKO BP.

FGE Gameday 1:

CCC Polkowice - KK AZS Jelenia Gora 98:51 (33:7, 19:19, 18:10, 28:15)
CCC: Jennifer Lacy 21, Anna Szycko 17, Ilona Jasnowska 16, Marta Gajewska 9, Agnieszka Nowak 8, Petra Stampalija 7, Veronika Bortelova 7, Lucja Tomczak 6, Paulina Rozwadowska 4, Magdalena Pietrzak 3, Justyna Jeziorna 0.
KK AZS: Natalia Malaszewska 20, Joanna Dlutowska 14, Beata Andrzejczak 4, Dorota Arodz 4, Agnieszka Kret 3, Dorota Wojcik 3, Agnieszka Balsam 2, Magdalena Sawicka 1, Joanna Pawlukiewicz 0, Marzena Kowalczyk 0, Zaneta Sojka 0.

PKM Duda PWSZ Leszno - Wisla Can-Pack Krakow 49:75 (14:19, 11:15, 16:21, 8:20)
Duda PWSZ: Daria Mieloszynska 16, Monika Siwczak 11, Agnieszka Makowska 6, Olga Zytomirska 5, Martyna Koc 4, Anna Talarczyk 3, Agnieszka Budnik 2, Edyta Krysiewicz 2, Anna Krzywicka 0, Agnieszka Krol 0, Constance Jinks 0.
Wisla Can-Pack: Marta Fernandez 21, Candice Dupree 14, Natalia Trafimava 12, Ewelina Kobryn 10, Anna Wielebnowska 7, Agata Gajda 3, Agnieszka Pałka 3, Agnieszka Fikiel 3, Jelena Skerovic 2, Monika Krawiec 0, Magdalena Radwan 0, Dorota Gburczyk 0.

LKS Siemens AGD Lodz - MUKS Poznan 70:68 (22:14, 16:21, 13:18, 19:15)
LKS: Katarzyna Kenig 19, Edyta Koryzna 14, Jennifer Humphrey 12, Dorota Sobczyk 12, Renata Oliveira 11, Sylwia Wlazlak 2, Monika Kopec 0, Karolina Rykowska 0, Milena Owczarek 0, Agnieszka Wilk 0, Julia Fraszko 0, Birute Dominauskaite 0.
MUKS: Agnieszka Skobel 20, Okeisha Howard 14, Zaneta Durak 12, Ilona Madra 9, Paulina Antczak 5, Katarzyna Rezler 4, Justyna Nieznalska 4, Adrianna Najtkowska 0, Paulina Furmanczak 0, Martyna Mickow 0, Barbara Skowronek 0.

Energa Torun - Utex ROW Rybnik 77:84 (19:18, 23:21, 8:21, 27:24)
Energa: Alexis Meridith 21, Alicja Perlinska 20, Justyna Grabowska 11, Beata Predehl 6, Navonda Moore 6, Emillia Tlumak 5, Anna Marczewska 4, Lada Kovalenko 2, Lindasy Taylor 2, Joanna Chelczynska 0.
ROW: Nikita Bell 24, Hollie Meredith 18, Agnieszka Jaroszewicz 11, Magdalena Skorek 11, Olena Proszczenko 8, Jaynetta Sauders 8, Joanna Gorzynska-Szymczak 4, Małgorzata Chomicka 0, Edyta Błaszczak 0.

Cukierki Odra Brzeg - Arcus SMS PZKosz Lomianki 79:60 (22:10, 23:16, 18:14, 16:20)
Cukierki: Joei Clyburn 32, Mirela Pultorak 16, Alla Yurlagina 9, Daria Cybulak 9, Justyna Daniel 7, Ekaterina Dvorskaya 6, Agata Bachryj 0, Khaili Sanders 0, Małgorzata Kudlak 0.
Arcus SMS: Olivia Tomialowicz 17, Claudia Sosnowska 12, Katarzyna Bednarczyk 7, Agata Bogusz 6, Agnieszka Modelska 6, Aneta Kotnis 5, Monika Jasnowska 5, Kamila Kowalewska 2, Anna Soszynska 0, Katarzyna Cwiklinska 0.

INEA AZS Poznan - Lotos PKO BP Gdynia 49:60 (10:18, 16:13, 14:16, 9:13)
INEA AZS: Joanna Jarkowska 18, Anna Pamula 7, Monika Sibora 6, Weronika Idczak 6, Reda Aleliunaite-Jankovska 6, Beata Krupska-Tyszkiewicz 5, Paulina Dabkowska 1, Joanna Lorek 0, Marlena Wdowczyk 0.
Lotos PKO BP: Ekaterina Snytsina 13, Anna Breitreiner 11, Magdalena Leciejewska 11, Slobodanka Maksimovic 7, Paulina Pawlak 6, Ganna Zarytska 6, Natalia Waligorska 3, Magda Bibrzycka 3, Patrycja Gulak 0, Marta Jujka 0.

According to www.PLKK.pl

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SLOVAK REP. - Women

Extraliga started a new season -by Eurobasket News
Extraliga of 2007/08 has just started in Slovak Republic. The favorites won the first games and showed a good game in the first round. Two players reached 26 points, being the top-scorers in the round.

KOSIT 2013 defended their title in the first game over SLAVIA UMB 91:57. A 16:15 in the first quarter spread to 25:12 in the second. Luisa Michulkova (179-F-84) top-scored for the winners with 26 points. She became one of the two leaders so far in the league. McCarvilleova nailed 16, while Jalcova added 14.

RUZOMBEROK destroyed NITRA 80:53. The win in all the quarters led the game to an easy win. Wilsonova poured in 19 points in a winning effort. Podesvova posted 18, while Palusna had 14. Sujanova and Penzesova ended up with 11 points for Nitra.
Nikola Kovalova (168-G-89) was another player to score 26 points as her VIKTORIA beat ROZNAVA 75:60. CASSOVIA overcame SLOVAN 67:54, while POPRAD was the only team to celebrate the road win over MYJAVA 67:69.

KOSIT 2013 - SLAVIA UMB 91:57 (16:15, 25:12, 24:20, 26:10)
KOSIT 2013: Luisa Michulkova 26, McCarvilleova 16, Jalcova 14
SLAVIA UMB: Simova 13, Lalovicova 13, Nina Makkova (181-C-88) 13, Uhrova 8

RUZOMBEROK - NITRA 80:53(19:11, 19:13, 23:13, 19:16)
RUZOMBEROK: Wilsonova 19, Podesvova 18, Palusna 14
NITRA: Sujanova 11, Penzesova 11, Kalafutova 9, Vyhnakova 8

CASSOVIA - SLOVAN 67:54(15:11, 23:15, 10:12, 19:16)
CASSOVIA: Gresnerova 24, Wilsonova 13, Vackova 10, Kolkusova 8
SLOVAN: Renata Kozmonova (190-C-81) 10, Horonyova 10, Krcmarova 9, Smutekova 7

MYJAVA - POPRAD 67:69(20:24, 14:12, 15:11, 18:22)
MYJAVA: Michaela Malinkova (170-F-85) 14, Prochazkova 13, Zakova 12
POPRAD: Bakerova 21, Brezaniova 15, Sadio Sangare (191-C-80, college: Oklahoma City) 12, Serbakova 9

VIKTORIA - ROZNAVA 75:60(23:16, 17:14, 16:16, 19:14)
VIKTORIA: Nikola Kovalova 26, Perostijska 17, Krasnockova 10, Pindrochova 8
ROZNAVA : Antalecova 17, Kovacikova 16, Csavasova 12, Barenyiova 10,

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SPAIN - Women

Kaayla Chones,probably shall be new player of San Jose Leon -by Ivan Villar
Managers from Leon's team are searching quickly a great player who replaces Ann Strother.Sydney Spencer was an option but last hours the name which sounds was Kaayla Chones (191-C-81, college: N.Carolina St.).American player was in Gran Canaria last season with spectacular stats.But she finished the season in french league.Ann Strother said to be sad for leave spanish team but she prefer to work for Colorado University.Anyway she would play in San Jose Leon if she decided to come back to play as professional.

Gran Canaria defeated Dynamo Moscu in home by 62-60 -by Ivan Villar
The canarian team won the Tournament of City of Las Palmas.The russian team of Nuria Martinez was a difficult team for Gran Canaria.But this team confirmed their good shape and fought for game until Elena Alamo (170-G-81) senteced it scoring two free throws on last seconds.Hodges was the best scorer of game with 21 points and Eva Montesdeoca and Brooke Wyckoff were unbeaten towers in defense.In other friendly games,Perfumerias Avenida trashed Extremadura Dato in Wuzburg Arena by 91-47.Tiffani Johnson with 21 points showed his high level.Also Hondarribia Irun lost against french team of Tarbes in Memorial Tate Saenz by 63-84.Tarbes presented itself with Iciss Tillis and Gisela Vega.The first was fired by vasc team on September and the argentinian played last seasons on LF2 teams.Tarbes showed a better shape than Hondarribia.Liene Jansone was best scorer with 15 points.