EUROBASKET NEWS REPORT - 10/24/2007

Copyright © 1997-2007 Eurobasket
WARNING:
Do not copy, redistribute, publish or otherwise exploit information that you download from the site!
Do not encumber, license, modify, publish, sell, transfer or transmit, or in any way exploit, any of the
content of the report, nor will you attempt to do so.
More info:www.eurobasket.com


Men News

*****************************************************
ABA

The Ripknees are back to the ABA -by Gianni Pascucci
After announcing last week they won' t participate to the inaugural PBL season, the Minnesota Ripknees announced that a new owner has finalized a deal to acquire the rights to the organization. The Ripknees are now be headed by Steve Rodriguez and his company, Jam Entertainment. Mr. Rodriguez owns three other ABA franchises: the Rochester Fire, the Rome Legions, and the Peoria Kings. Under the new ownership, the Ripknees will participate in the American Basketball Association this season instead of the Premier Basketball League. Their schedule will be released in the near future. All of their home games will still be played at Roy Wilkins Auditorium.

2 Ex-NBA Players Signed by Sound -by Joe Pietaro
The Strong Island Sound have announced that they have signed center Gordon Malone (6'10''-F/C-74, college: W.Virginia) and guard Charles Jones (6'3''-G-75, college: LIU Brooklyn) for the 2007-08 ABA season. Jones briefly played with the Sound in their inaugural 2005-06 season. The 6'11” Malone was drafted in the 2nd round (44th overall) of the 1997 NBA Draft by the Minnesota Timberwolves. In two years at the University of West Virginia, he averaged 10.5 points and 7.7 rebounds per game. Gordon has also played in the ABA, CBA, USBL, IBA, EBA, MBA and EBA, as well as overseas in Puerto Rico, Poland, Argentina, Greece, Dominican Republic and China. Gordon was also a member of the Harlem Globetrotters on two separate occasions in 2005 and 2006. Being a two-time NCAA scoring champion is no small task, and when Jones suited up for L.I.U. (Brooklyn), he was destined for greatness. He led the nation with a 30.1 PPG average during the 1996-97 season, and followed that up with 28.4 PPG a year later. He went undrafted in the 1998 NBA Draft and was signed by the Chicago Bulls as a free agent, where he averaged 3.7 points in 23 games. The following season, Jones played 56 games for the Los Angeles Clippers and averaged 3.4 PPG. Jones played three games with Strong Island in November of 2005 and won ABA Player of the Week for his 21 point, 12 assist and 10 rebound effort in a 123-112 win at Rochester. It was the organization's first victory and it came against the eventual league champion. His experiences overseas include Greece, Italy, Israel, Argentina, Bulgaria and Bolivia. Stateside, he has participated in the EBA, USBL and CBA.

*****************************************************
ADRIATIC LEAGUE

Tadija Dragicevic extended contract with Crvena Zvezda till 2010 -by Dragan Jankovski
The captain of Crvena Zvezda from Belgrade, Tadija Dragicevic (205-F-86), extended contract with the team until summer 2010. Together with Partizan, Zvezda is currently on the top of Adriatic league with 5 wins and 1 defeat while Dragicevic is the leading scorer and rebounder of the team so far. He averaged 20.5 ppg and 5.1 rpg in the first six rounds of Adriatic league.

Dragicevic grew up in Zvezda's young selections. He spent one very successful season on loan in Mega Ishrana.

*****************************************************
ARGENTINA

Ligorria out of Atenas -by Leonardo Contieri
With only six rounds (of 44) of the regular season played, Medardo Ligorria became the first coach to lose his job. He resigned from Atenas head coaching position today, with the team having a 1-5 record, tied for sixth place in the north group. Ligorria took charge of the National League team late last season when Atenas was in severe danger of being relegated, and carried the team onto quarterfinals. Jose Arrigoni, Ligorria's assistant will act as interim coach until the club hire a new head coach.

*****************************************************
BALTIC LEAGUE

Tonight results and stats in Elite Division and Challenge Cup -by Eurobasket News
Elite Division
ASK Riga-Rock Tartu 78 : 59 ( 27-20, 19-8, 16-11, 16-20 )

ASK Riga came back on track after a loss from Rytas. Tonight in Riga the team beat Rock Tartu 78 : 59. Dwayne Broyles (196-F/G-82, college: JMU) led the winners with 16 points. Sandis Buskevics (190-G-77) posted 13, while Sandis Valters (193-G/F-78, agency: Arik Krayn Services) added 11. Vallo Allingu (206-C-78) was the only one to reach double digits for the guests ending the game with 10 points.

Sandis Valters and Dwayne Broyles helped ASK Riga to rise over Tartu Rock after the first quarter 27:20. The home team played tough defense and let the visitors to finish with only 8 points in the second quarter. ASK Riga had 18 points advantage as the teams disappeared in the lockers.

The situation did not change in the last two quarters of the game. ASK Riga played the same basketball, however downed the tempo. In the third quarter Rock Tartu stayed far from the hosts with the score, but even the game. In the last quarter the guests even were satisfied having 20:16 victory.
ASK Riga reached the 5th win in Baltic league and caught Rytas. The latter however has no losses all. Rock fell at 1-3, but stays in the middle of the standings.

ASK Riga: Dwayne Broyles 16, Sandis Buskevics 13, Sandis Valters 11
Rock Tartu: Vallo Allingu 10, Asko Paade (206-F-84) 9, Silver Leppik (185-G-83) 9

Kalev/Cramo-Ventspils 77 : 86 ( 22-20, 15-23, 17-21, 23-22 )
Latvian Ventspils grabbed the road win in the game of winless teams. Trailing 20:22 to Estonian Kalev, the team won anyway 86:77. Jimmy Baxter (198-G-80, college: S.Florida) led the winners with 22 points. Kaspars Cipruss (210-C-82) netted 20, while Uvis Helmanis (203-F-72, agency: Stanley International) added 11. Marlon Parmer (191-G-80, agency: HM Sports Agency, college: Ky Wesleyan) had a great game for the hosts producing 28 points.

Kalev/Cramo started the campaign with 22:20 in the opening quarter. In the second quarter it was difficult to believe that the hosts would fail. Kalev held 28:22 after Kangur scored two pointers. Latvian team made 9-2 to win the half 37:43.

In the third quarter Gabrans with a three increased the lead of the visitors to 10 points. Jimmy Baxter made sure Venspils had the same deficit in the end, making 54:64.
Jimmy Baxter scored first 9 points for his team in the fourth quarter and after his second three it was the game over for the hosts, 56:71. Kalev tried hard to recover, but Vitols three made the final score in the court. Ventspils gets the first win and improves to 1-2.

Kalev/Cramo: Marlon Parmer 28, Travis Reed (203-C-79, agency: Court Side, college: Long Beach St.) 16+11 rebs, Kangur 14
Ventspils: Jimmy Baxter 22, Kaspars Cipruss 20, Uvis Helmanis 11

Challenge Cup
VEF Riga-Techasas Panevezys 82 : 74 OT( 24-22, 14-21, 10-15, 22-12 12-4 )
Techasas Panevezys lost the overtime thriller in Riga and got the second straight loss in the Baltic League. VEF Riga produced 22:12 in the last quarter to tie the score before the overtime and then spurted with 12:4 in it. Maris Gulbis (200-F-85, agency: Interperformances) led the winners with 29 points. Reinis Strupovics (191-G-87) posted 23, while Shelekto added 14. Zydrunas Urbonas (198-F-76) top-scored for Lithuanian team with 16 points.

VEF Riga took a control of the game from the first minutes and went on a 8-2 run. Gailitis however could give Riga 2 points after the first quarter making a shot.
In the beginning of the second quarter Riga was still in front but then Panevezys grabbed the lead. Tatarunas with a three made the score 32:35. Mindaugas Budzinauskas (198-G-73) sent the teams to the lockers at 38:43 for the guests. A 10:15 in the third and Lithuanian team had 10 points before the last 10 minutes of the game.
VEF Riga however used more than 10 minutes to recover. At first the team tied the score in the end of the fourth and then beat Lithuanian team in overtime. A 82:74 lifts Latvian team to 3-1. Techasas Panevezys fell at 3-2 and will try to improve in the next game.

VEF Riga: Maris Gulbis 29, Reinis Strupovics 23, Shelekto 14
Techasas Panevezys: Zydrunas Urbonas 16, Mindaugas Budzinauskas 15, Mike Smith (190-G, college: St.Francis (IL)) 15


Skele leads Barons to the first win in BBL -by Eurobasket News

Barons/LMT -Valmiera 94 : 77 ( 26-22, 22-26, 27-19, 19-10 )

Barons celebrated the first win in the Elite Division of Baltic league. In the game of the Latvian teams barons overcame Valmiera 94:77. Armands Skele (192-G-83) top-scored for the winners with 23 points. Darnell ended up the game with 15 points, while Giedrius Gustas (190-G-80, agency: Interperformances) scored 13. Vladimir Stimac (208-C-87, agency: Interperformances) produced 24 points and made 11 rebounds in defeat.

Barons started the game on a high note and spurted with 20:13 in the opening tip. Till the end of the quarter Valmiera managed to get closer, 26:22. The teams showed the same score in the second quarter, however at that time Valmiera advantaged with 26:22.
Armands Skele scored 13 points in the third quarter and after his dunk it was 58:53 for Barons. The team regained their lead, 75:67 at the end of the third quarter. A 19:10 in the final one brought the first win for Barons in the league, while Valmiera fell at 1-5.

The next games are scheduled for October 23rd. Latvian ASK Riga will try to recover after a pity loss from Lietuvos Rytas against Rock. Kalev will meet Ventspils in Estonia.



Barons/LMT: Armands Skele 23, Darnell 15, Giedrius Gustas 13
Valmiera: Vladimir Stimac 24+11 rebs, Ingus Bankevics (195-G/F-85, agency: FCM) 18



*****************************************************
BARBADOS

Under-21: Lakers tame Cougars; clinch top seed -by Justin Marville
A game high 35 points from Cougars centre Ricardo Jemmont was not enough to cool off the league's hottest team as the Lumber Company Lakers secured the top seed heading into the post-season by routing the Cougars 107-77 at the Barbados Community College on Sunday in the latest action of the Barbados Light and Power Under-21 tournament.

After dropping their opening game of the competition to the defending champion Cavaliers, the Lakers have now rattled off nine consecutive victories to close the regular season, giving them the league's longest winning streak and the best record at 9-1 going into the playoffs.

However the Cougars, despite showing up with only five players, would make the league leaders fight for their regular season finale.

With the Lakers' customary full court trap to begin the game failing to create any turnovers against a well drilled Cougars side, the Hothersal Turning lads managed to keep pace in the first quarter, with Jemmont dominating the opposing frontcourt on the inside leaving acres of space on the perimeter for Wendell Crookendale and Jamal Thompson to operate.

The trio combined for all 16 of the Cougars' first quarter points but failed to open a lead as the Lakers countered with their own “Big Three” of Keefe Birkett, George Farrell and Ian Alexander, locking the scores at 16 to end the period.

Shooting guard Romel Smith got in on the act once Crookendale went cold to start the ensuing quarter, scoring five quick points to open the second as the Cougars continued to make light work of the opposition's full court pressure on defence.

This forced coach Derek Browne to switch to a zone defence but it would have no effect on the Cougars' scoring rate as Jemmont proved unstoppable, scoring mid-range jumpers and getting to the ring at ease while Thompson torched his perimeter defenders from the left wing.

However, it would be the Lakers who ended the half with a one point lead, 39-38, with the Lakers' “Big Three” adding a further 14 points in the second while getting key contributions from centre John Jones in the middle as the Cougars struggled to contain the league leaders at the other end of the floor.

But their defensive short comings would be truly exposed in the third quarter when the Lakers began to push the tempo offensively, as three consecutive treys from Birkett and Jamario Grazette spurred a 21-9 run to start the second half opening up a 47-60 Cougars deficit midway through the period despite Jemmont's best efforts.

The dominant centre/forward scored from almost everywhere on the court, battling his way to the front of the basket, scoring on a couple back-to-the-basket moves and even knocking down jumpers from the free throw line on his way to ten third quarter points.

But there was no stopping the Lakers' offensive juggernaut as the top seeds got out in transition for several baskets in the open court on the heels of some unnecessary turnovers from their opposition, leading the league leaders to close the period on a 21-10 surge to give them an 81-57 advantage heading into the fourth quarter.

Despite watching his side being outscored by an absurd 42-21 margin in the third Jemmont continued to battle away in the low blocks, adding yet another 10 points in the fourth quarter but Jones, with the help of a combined 15 fourth quarter points from reserves Chiamaka Browne and Akeem Williams, duly put away the game for the Lakers.

Birkett led the Husbands based squad with 22 points, Farrell finished with 19, Jones added a further 12 while Alexander, Browne and Grazette each scored 11 points apiece. For the Cougars, Thompson ended the night with 19 points while Smith and Crookendale netted 11 and 10 points respectively.

*****************************************************
BOSNIA

FIBA decides against Marko Batina -by Nedzad Kladusak
KK Bosna will have to face another unexpected problem only two weeks before the first appearance in the ULEB Cup.
FIBA court decided against Marko Batina who will have to stay with Hermes Analitica. The court decided that the croatian team
had a valid contract and Batina was under suspension. Bosna signed a 3yr contract despite never getting a letter of clearing.
Now Bosna will try to get him transfered and will have to negotiate the transfer sum for the Visoko(BIH)-born, croatian U-20 NT player.

*****************************************************
BRIT.V.ISLANDS

Parillon says he's going home -by David Edole

By Paul on the Ball Hewlett

For a second consecutive week Steve Parillon (196-F-78, agency: Sanni Hoops, college: Henderson St.) stepped onto the basketball court at the Hallam FM Stadium in Sheffield carrying an injury.

Last week the injury was not so profound in the first half of his playing time but labouring on antibiotics seemed to bring on the injury and by the half already being week he found it impossible to play on a sore right knee which got worse as the game progressed.

This week the injury still lingered and although he tried his best during the game there was a noticeable hop in his step and consequently played much fewer minutes as the game progressed.

Making matters worse The Sharks found themselves in an encounter with some very aggressive Newcastle Eagles who seemed to have a little help up their sleeve, lets call it the sixth man and with Steve, the oldest and most experienced player, far from his best and unable to lead from the front, Newcastle began to run riot and the night ended with Parillon ready to hang up his shoes.

The Newcastle Eagles started aggressively hitting consecutive three pointers but Randy George played great defence against a very tall team helping the Sharks to take the lead at the end of the first quarter 19-18.

The Eagles took most of the possession in the second and the third quarter in a game that offensively was very dead and by the end of the third lead by a huge 11 points 40 to 51.

The challenge in the game was not with the players though but rather with the fans , who through the whole game booed and shouted rude remarks at the referees who seemed to call some extremely unusual calls in favour of Eagles.

By the start of the final quarter Parillon had to be taken off and would not re-enter the game until the 2 minutes buzzer was sounded having collected his fourth foul at the top of that quarter. In fact only McKeithan really got going and only three players got into double figures.

The call which really got the fans upset was Parillon's third foul when while driving to the hoop an Eagle player blatantly stepped into his way and the referee ran to the scoring table and shouted charging foul on number 12 Steve Parillon. The fans went wild with anger and things began to look really ugly. The final quarter ended 61-72 in favour of the Eagles and many fans stood up shouting angry words to the referees.

One die-hard Sharks fan said, “This nonsense has been going on for too long now and has to stop. Their (Eagles) owner is also the big gun in the BBL league so he pays the cheques for the referees, it's sickening.”

He (the fan) continued, “It just began to look as though a foul was called every time a Shark made an aggressive move on an Eagle.”

Speaking with head coach, Peter Scantlebury, after the game, said, “What can you do, they are a strong team and my team is a very young one to British basketball. I can only hope the guys have taken note of what happened out there on the court tonight and learn from it.”

When the players eventually emerged from the changing room, Steve Parillon appeared to be very upset and told me, “Paul I have had enough of this and think I am going to go back home. I am tired of these referees disrespecting me in this league, after all I am not no rookie. I just don't need to take this sort of nonsense. I don't mind losing but not like this.”

In the game Raymond McKeithan had 18 pts, 6 rebounds, 2 steals; Justice Graham 11 points, 2 rebounds; Steve Parillon 10 points, 5 rebounds, 4 assists.



*****************************************************
BULGARIA

Da Rosa got injured -by Vladi Lazarova

The last new player in Bulgarian champion and National Cup holder Lukoil Akademik - Murilo da Rosa (207-C-83) got injured at his first practice with the “Students”. 207 cm tall Brazilian National center will miss at least two weeks, because of torn ligaments in his right shoulder. It's a big pity, because Da Rosa definitely will not be ready for the first ULEB Cup game of Lukoil Akademik in Latvia against Riga at the 5th of November.




*****************************************************
COLOMBIA

1ST NATIONAL COACHES´ NATIONAL CLINIC -by Victor Garcia

The Colombian Basketball Federation and Liga de Bogota with the sponsorship of Saludcoop, schedulled the first National Clinic for Coaches from November 7 to November 9, the main goal of the Clinic is to give strong basis to the young coaches of the contry, the coaches will be accreditted for the Colombian Basketball Federation.

The main conferences will be from November 7 to November 9, and and from November 14 additional conferences and practices.
Argentina´s coaches Enrique Tocalchier and Eduardo Japez will conduct the Clinic.
This could be a solid first step to take again a National Coaches ranking to give support to the Coaches work



*****************************************************
CUBA

TNA Review and a great Borrell in Argentina -by Alessandro Fontana
Lazaro Borrell (202-F-72, agency: Interperformances) began very good the Liga in Argentina. In the last 3 games He scored 17,6 points and He catched 8,6 rebounds in 32,0 minutes. Obras has a 3-2 standing. Lazaro Borrell scored 11pts (1/1 FT, 5/10 2pts, 0/2 3pts)+12 rebs against Quilmes (defeat 84-77). He scored 23pts (4/4 FT, 8/10 2pts, 1/2 3pts)+5rebs against El nacional Monte Hermoso (victory 79-70) and He scored 19pts (3/5 FT, 8/11 2pts, 0/2 3pts)+9rebs against Gimnaisa y Esgrima (victory 76-69).

TNA Cuban league:
After 16 games, We can confirm that Ciego de Avila is still "the team to defeat" in this TNA 2007. Ciego de Avila has a 15-1 standing. The team is too strong for the other teams, They have 2 of the 3 strongest players in all Cuba, "El gato" Geoffrey Silvestre (202-F/C-79) and Michael Guerra (188-G-79).
Capitalinos is the strongest team in Ciudad La Habana. They are the more qualified team to play the Final against Ciego de Avila. They play very good as a team with no stars but with good players as Orestes Torres (203-C-87), Giordano Leguen a "great rebounder" and Eliecer Lima a young center very interesting, the leader of the blocks in this TNA 2007.
Another team to mention is Matanzas, the team has only a 7-5 standing, but we do not have to forget that Matanzas could not play 4 games in his Coliseum because the Arena was floded by the water.
The best player in Matanzas is Allens Jemmott (193-G-80), He is the "pride of the city", Jemmot is the best scorer of this TNA with more than 30pts per game and He scored 35 points last friday against Capitalinos and Matanzas could win with one of the strongest team of the Tournament. If Allens Jemmott will play so "wonderful" for the all tournament, the team can dream to reach the LSB and try to win the tournamet with "el MJ del Caribe" everything is possible.
We expected more about Sancti Spiritus (3-10). They have a good team with players as Jimenez and Rodriguez, but the team never showed his talent.
A. Fontana

*****************************************************
CYPRUS

Transfer news and Results -by Chris Mammides

Transfer news

Achilleas Kaimakli agreed terms with the American guard Carlos Smith (183-G-84). The American is a roukie in the European courts but he comes froma great college and it is considered to be a very big help for the Kaimakli club.

Kyriakos Yiangoullis is the new appointed Head coach in Dentalcon Apoel Nicosia team.

Second Division: Day 1 - Results

Onisillos Sotiras - Olympos Aglantzias 30 - 73

Asteras Mesa Geitonias - Argonaftes Nikos & Sokratis Erimis 73 - 63

Digenis Akritas Morfou - Anagennisi Yermasogias 70 - 74

Doxa Strovolou - Enosi Kokkinotrimithias 77 - 56

Achilleas Agrou - Enosis Neon Paralimni 65 - 61

Philips College - AE Yeroskipou 20 - 0 (Yeropskipou didn't show up for the game)



*****************************************************
DOMINICAN REP.

Dominicans In Spain- LEB Plata -by Ozell Wells
Akasvayu Vic continued their winning ways with a 88-64 victory over Cornella.
Eulis Baez (201-F-82, college: W.Illinois) had a STELLAR GAME notching 26 pts, 10 rebs, and shooting 79% from the field on 11 for 14 shooting. Vic is now tied for 1st place at 5-0 with Plasencia-Galco.
Kelvin Pena (193-G-81, college: Southeastern CC) had 7pts on 50% shooting and 75% from the FT but only 1 reb and 3 to's as Caceres lost a close one to Caja Rioja 90-84. Both teams are in a 3 way tie for 5th place in the league at 4-1.
Manuel Guzman (203-F-82, college: Bemidji St.) had a breakout game with 17 pts,11 rebs, 2 steals and a blocked shot but it was not enough as Sabadell lost to Cosarsa 87-68. They now sit in 16th place in the LEB Plata at 1-4

*****************************************************
ESTONIA

ASK Riga achieved another win in BBL beating Rock -by Eurobasket News
ASK Riga-Rock Tartu 78 : 59 ( 27-20, 19-8, 16-11, 16-20 )

ASK Riga came back on track after a loss from Rytas. Tonight in Riga the team beat Rock Tartu 78 : 59. Dwayne Broyles (196-F/G-82, college: JMU) led the winners with 16 points. Sandis Buskevics (190-G-77) posted 13, while Sandis Valters (193-G/F-78, agency: Arik Krayn Services) added 11. Vallo Allingu (206-C-78) was the only one to reach double digits for the guests ending the game with 10 points.

Sandis Valters and Dwayne Broyles helped ASK Riga to rise over Tartu Rock after the first quarter 27:20. The home team played tough defense and let the visitors to finish with only 8 points in the second quarter. ASK Riga had 18 points advantage as the teams disappeared in the lockers.

The situation did not change in the last two quarters of the game. ASK Riga played the same basketball, however downed the tempo. In the third quarter Rock Tartu stayed far from the hosts with the score, but even the game. In the last quarter the guests even were satisfied having 20:16 victory.
ASK Riga reached the 5th win in Baltic league and caught Rytas. The latter however has no losses all. Rock fell at 1-3, but stays in the middle of the standings.

ASK Riga: Dwayne Broyles 16, Sandis Buskevics 13, Sandis Valters 11
Rock Tartu: Vallo Allingu 10, Asko Paade (206-F-84) 9, Silver Leppik (185-G-83) 9

Ventspils wins the battle of winless -by Eurobasket News
Kalev/Cramo-Ventspils 77 : 86 ( 22-20, 15-23, 17-21, 23-22 )

Latvian Ventspils grabbed the road win in the game of winless teams. Trailing 20:22 to Estonian Kalev, the team won anyway 86:77. Jimmy Baxter (198-G-80, college: S.Florida) led the winners with 22 points. Kaspars Cipruss (210-C-82) netted 20, while Uvis Helmanis (203-F-72, agency: Stanley International) added 11. Marlon Parmer (191-G-80, agency: HM Sports Agency, college: Ky Wesleyan) had a great game for the hosts producing 28 points.

Kalev/Cramo started the campaign with 22:20 in the opening quarter. In the second quarter it was difficult to believe that the hosts would fail. Kalev held 28:22 after Kangur scored two pointers. Latvian team made 9-2 to win the half 37:43.

In the third quarter Gabrans with a three increased the lead of the visitors to 10 points. Jimmy Baxter made sure Venspils had the same deficit in the end, making 54:64.
Jimmy Baxter scored first 9 points for his team in the fourth quarter and after his second three it was the game over for the hosts, 56:71. Kalev tried hard to recover, but Vitols three made the final score in the court. Ventspils gets the first win and improves to 1-2.

Kalev/Cramo: Marlon Parmer 28, Travis Reed (203-C-79, agency: Court Side, college: Long Beach St.) 16+11 rebs, Kangur 14
Ventspils: Jimmy Baxter 22, Kaspars Cipruss 20, Uvis Helmanis 11

*****************************************************
FRANCE

NM1 Day 07: Day off for Lievin, Extra time for Mulhouse -by Chris Spiesser
Quite unhabitual stories happenned during the last week-end. At first, on Friday night according to coach Gonsalves, Mulhouse “won twice”. They downed Longwy 89-91 almost one hour after thinking they had gained the victory 75-76! On Saturday, on the remainings of our social disorders (the railway company was on strike on Thursday), Lievin couldn't reach Bordeaux. The game was postponed. Obviously, it was easier to do the South-North road but Antibes gained no benefit to its trip to Charleville and now has to share its first rank with Fos and Blois.

Charleville 81-73 Antibes
The locals took the best start (24-13, 10') and leant on there inside domination (35 rebounds vs 25) to beat the leader. Condouant (9pts 4/6, 6rbs, 6ass) and Sylvain (12pts 4/5) gave the answer to Cornett (20pts 8/9, 8rbs) while Charleville's newcomers had dissimilar prestations.Kresta took an active part in the win (12pts 4/5, 6rbs) while Davis will have to do a lot better in the upcoming games (1pt 0/4, 23').

Challans 64-66 Fos
After 30', it looked more like Challans would join place 1 (61-57). A glance at the final scores puts a light on the poor last QT (3-9). Challans multiplied the mistakes (22/59 at final, 37%). Fos wasn't at his offensive best but handled much better the final minutes relying on Toto (25pts 7/11, 14rbs, 5stl, 4to, 4ass) and Cisse (12pts, 4rbs, 3stl, 5to, 6ass).

Blois 91-84 Andrezieux
A tremendous 3 points accuracy (16/28) turned the visitors into a tenacious team. Stipanovic wouldn't miss any 3 pointer (25pts 7/7 3pts), and helped by N'Kembe (12pts 6/8, 9rbs), Blois suffered to land on top of the NM1. But the most accurate team of NM1 (56/122 3pts) answered with a 13/28 (7/12 by Maizeroi) perfumed by another accurate show on the FT line (16/22) that Andrezieux couldn't attend (2/4). You'll not be surprised by the MVP of the game: Blot who went this time for 26pts 4/8 3pts and 10rbs. Right now, he has an 27.6 evaluation over 7 games (22.1ppg 57%, 7.7rpg, 3.4spg, 2.3apg)!

Boulogne 74-96 GET Vosges
Pierre-Joseph maintained his team alive during the first QT (21-19). Caskill (25pts, 11rbs) and Herard (23pts 8/12, 6rbs, 2stl, 4ass) answered afterwards. The second half turned into a nightmare for the locals who sunk 36-52. Their 4th loss in a row.

St-Chamond 75-64 Lille
Before the game the two teams were tie with 3w-3d. So this was an important game in terms of confidance and ambitions. But Lille had not much to offer to St-Chamond on Saturday and got quickly outscored. At halftime, the locals had the biggest part of the job done (45-25). Guillaume Granotier (184-G-74) wasn't innocent in that deep gap (22pts 4/6 3pts, 6rbs, 7stl, 4ass). Nesmith tried to answer in the second half (15pts, 5rbs) but the liguerians are experienced and didn't wasted a win synonymous of rank 6.

CFBB 51-78 Angers
Alexis Tanghe had a good game (23pts, 10rbs). Nevertheless, the good news stop here for the CFBB as Tanghe scored 69% of team ranking points. From the second QT, Angers took things in care through Doles and Mubarak (17pts each). Soon the winner was known and Angers' youngsters could grab interesting minutes on court.

Feurs 88-78 Toulouges
Almost a turning point for the locals. With a defeat they already would have been in trouble by letting a 2 wins margin to their adversary. Moreover, Periac and Trobo were injured. Enough. Feurs had a great game! Jalce was back (23pts, 3rbs, 4stl, 6to). He brought a necessary athletic dimension against the catalan power three (M'Balla, N'Sima, Nelson: 50pts, 13rbs). But it was Gourgeon who shinned to maintain a gap built during the second and third QTs: 27pts (4/6 3pts), 8rbs, 3stl, 2ass.

Longwy 89-91 Mulhouse
You were wondering how it is possible to win twice a game? Here is the point: after the 40 minutes, Mulhouse went back to the lockers with an outstanding 75-76 win. Smiles, chest-bumps, relaxing and showers, you can imagine the good mood. 30 minutes later, the referees came into the locker with bad news: the table officials made a mistake, the true score goes 75-75! Play Again... So the two teams went back into the deserted Bassompiere arena for two overtimes. And despite this psychological hinder plus M'Bodji and Adell fouled out, the visitors won... again! They can thank Bassine who did great with his 29pts.

Aaron Pettway is the new center of Strasbourg -by Maxime Weber
Aaron Pettway (211-F/C-80, agency: Hart Sports Mngm, college: Oklahoma St.) signs with Strasbourg to replace Jai Lewis (201-F-83, college: George Mason). Eric Girard decided to let him go after the lost againt Nancy this weekend because the americain center didn't satisfy the SIG staff. Aaron Pettway played last season in Poland with Kager Gdynia (9.3ppg, 7.3rpg and 1.9 bpg) and he started the 2007/2008 season with Antalya in Turkey.

*****************************************************
GEORGIA

2 Americans - 1 Serbian - 2 Georgians -by Levan Mikeladze

REAL BASKETBALL IS BACK, RIGHT HERE IN GEORGIA ! ! !

Belton Rivers / Anwar Ferguson - JOVAN STEFANOV - Mikheil Berishvili / Giorgi Shermadini

Old CHAMPION was back playing against present CHAMPION.

VITA played VS ENERGY yesterday after the the opening ceremonial of Georgian National Highest League. First of all it was interesting because it was first time they play with each other after so many year, VITA and old AZOTI same as ENERGY but they met each other in near past in Dudu Dadiani Memorial Tournament when Rustavian team beat Tbilisians and took a cup in final. We remember that Jovan Stefanov (208-F-83, college: Illinois-Chicago) was first player imported in Georgian league this year and he became MVP of that match. Today ENERGY had two more international players who were helping a lot for this game. VITA had same roster and same faces what was not that interesting for people but there was big enthusiasm from VITA to take a revenge. Zurab Tomaradze 's players started pretty good from few fast breaks and easily went ahead by few points but from the first time they couldn't win a position under the basket. Problem was one, and this one was ENERGY's new Bahamian center Anwar Ferguson who made some amazing block shots on the game. He couldn't really help his team in scoring a lot of points as he was not adjusted to team but other guy was not sleeping in that moment. Belton Rivers from Tennessee Tech. grabed 19 points for his team. It can be said that he played pretty good if we mention that he arrived in Georgia 2 days ago from Atlanta. While ENERGY was playing hard with their internationals and youth players, VITA's indisputable leader Mikheil Berishvili made 6 from 7 three points and made 27 points at all. This young man from Georgian U20 National Team is not joking this year, and as he mentioned he really found his destination club and coaches in Georgia. Unique was ENERGY's golden Power Forward Jovan Stefanov making 21 points and becoming top scorer from his team. We will review his stats later with his interview for EuroBasket.

This game was predicted as future final which was lead by David Ustiashvili. Coach Tomaradze is trying to make a better team in near future to deserve playing final as there are a teams who are getting better and better this year.



Interview with Lasha Parghalava -by Levan Mikeladze
Eurobasket Georgia made an interview with Lasha Parghalava (190-G-87) who is member of the Georgian U20 National Team and currently plays in the United States of America. After his successful high school career he is player of Pensacola Junior College and is dominating... Let's see his departed way on the American basketball front.

Levan Mikeladze: Lasha, you were one of the first Georgian student who got athletic scholarship from American private high school, could you please shortly recall your first steps in the high school basketball?

Lasha Parghalava: I attended the FLORIDA AIR ACADMY military school in 2003/2004 as a junior and stayed their for two years before I graduated in 2006
It was really difficult at the beginning because it was military school and really hard basketball program also I had hard time with learning English language and doing well in the class room. Few months later I got a hang of this routine and it got easier. Then I had hard time changing my style of basketball, because here in America everybody is more athletic and stronger then in Europe , but other than that it was great experience for me.


Levan Mikeladze: Do you think that American private high schools are a places where European youth basketball players can become great professionals?

Lasha Paghalava: In my opinion American private schools are great place for European youth to come continue they education and play basketball, because when you done playing basketball you would have something to rely in your life on and that would be your education that you received in United States.


Levan Mikeladze: What differences you see between American and Georgian basketball schools?

Lasha Parghalava: The difference in Georgian and American high school are that in America the way schools work is that you would be able to go to school and play basketball at the same time which you can't really do in Georgia, because you have to choose what you want to do go to school or play sports the time limitation wouldn't allow you do both.


Levan Mikeladze: What is your future plans after your college career?

Lasha Parghalava: After my college career I am planning on going back to Europe and trying to play basketball professionally. And later on maybe trying get into coaching or being basketball agent. And I would want to thank my coach back in Georgia Omar Lebanidze and Vazha Kvarchxelia, because I wouldn't made without them.

*****************************************************
GERMANY

Kasey Ulin to Herten -by Moritz Korff
Kasey Ulin (185-G-82, agency: Global Sports Plaza, college: Dickinson St.) has joined Hertener Loewen (2. Bundesliga Pro B) and will make his debut on Saturday against the Ansbach Piranhas. The 25-year-old Guard played for BG 74 Goettingen from 2004-2006 and was named to the Eurobasket.com All-2. Bundesliga Second Team twice. In this past season he played for Feni Indistrija Kavadarci in the first Macedonian division.

*****************************************************
GREECE

A2: Day 4 Results and scorers -by Chris Mammides
Iraklis remained the only unbeaten team after the first four weeks in the A2 league, while sporting and Apolon Patras prove to be among the weakest links of the league as they seem to be not so solid teams. Great game from Costas Totsios (191-G-78) of Iraklis in the thrashing game over Trikala while Dimitris Spanoulis (192-G-79, agency: Beo Basket) and Giannis Kakiouzis (205-F-78) remembered their last season.
The results and the scores are as follows:
Dafni - Ilysiakos 76-65
Quarters: 21-17, 38-30, 57-47 and 76-65.
Dafni: Nikitakis 21 (4), Pappas 8 (2), Giannis Kakiouzis 21, Papadimitriou 2, Kerasovitis 6, Sioutis 10, Petrodimopoulos 8.
Ilysiakos: Mompodietas 5 (1), Gajic 18 (3), Kahrimanovic 14 (1), Athanasoulas 2, Petroulas 13 (2), Tsarouchas 3 (1), Bogris 10,

Panerythraikos - P. Faliro 65-44
Quarters: 18-9, 45-16, 56-28, 65-44.
Panerythraikos: Kondoudis 5, Nikola Manojlovic (207-C-79) 6, Georgaros 5, Yfantis 5 (1), Skouzis 5 (1), Costas Maglos (208-F/C-75, college: Boston Coll.) 12, Koutouzis 5 (1), Hopson 11 (1), Tsotsos 4, Skoutaris 5 (1).
P. Faliro: Pavlicevic 4, Mentzos 2, Zoukas 2, Efthimiou 4 (1), Rodostoglou 11, Halkiadakis 10, Aposkitis 11 (3).

MENT - Pagrati 72-63
Quarters: 25-10, 37-15, 55-42 and 72-63.
MENT: Bursic 7, Despos 12, Karidas 10 (1), Dimitris Spanoulis 21 (4), Makris 11 (1), Mandic11.
Pagrati: Liakopoulos 15, Tsolatos 12 (4), Voulgaris 14 (4), Klimis 9 (3), Kourtis 5 (1), Tzialas 3, Mahairas 5.

Ionikos Lamias - ICBS 77-71
Quarters: 14-18, 38-41, 59-59 and 77-71.
Ionikos Lamias:: M. Sofogiannis. 2, Nikos Spanos (193-G-78, college: Berry) 22 (5), Christou 14, Kekelis 10 (1), Giannouzakos 4 (1), Tsopis 2, Pashalis 16, Veskoukis 7.
ICBS: Kandic 3 (1), Alexis Bardas (189-F-81) 22 (2), Kounas 9 (1), Vidalis 5 (1), Jovanovic 5 (1), Anagnostopoulos 4, Nisiotis 13, Tselios 7 (1), Plioukas 3 (1).

Apollon Patras - Peristeri 42-58
Quarters: 18-16, 24-26, 35-38, 42-58.
Apollon: Kados 8, Lianos 6, Manousos 3, Papadopoulos 1, Kapotas 3, PJ Isaacson 2, Giannikopoulos 4, Georgitsis 8, Indes 4, Athanasiadis 3.
Peristeri: Mantzanas 9, Moshovitis 13, Amato 2, A. Mantzaris 10, Vangelis Margaritis (202-F/C-82) 14, Deligiannis 2, Bucci 8 (2).

Iraklis - Xanthi 107-63
Quarters: 30-17, 51-30, 79-48, 107-63.
Iraklis: Siamandouras 12, Limperis 3, Costas Totsios 25, Micic 16, Apostolopoulos 6, Foutzitsis 2, Kelsidis 6, Traina 23, Kalles 5, Simeonidis 5, Onasoglou 4.
Xanthi: Moulakis 13, Frousklias 4, Stefanidis 15, Seferidis 11, Koutsogiannis 4, Loupos 16.

Trikala 2000 - Halkida 72-51
Quarters: 19-13, 39-30, 53-47 and 72-51.
Trikala 2000: Lepeniotis 9, Katsares 2, Vardianos 7, Bogdanos 8 (1), Kaklamanos 22 (4), Papakostas 2, Harismidis 12, Fountas 6 (1), Papavasileiou 4.
Halkida: Kritikos 7, Kantartzis 9, Papantoniou 2, Vasilopoulos 10, Tomaras 2, Psathas 7 (1), Imbiza 9, Vucicevic 5.

Sporting - Panorama 71-81
Quarters: 20-22, 34-44, 51-66, 71-81.
Sporting: Tsiotras 5, Fotiou 11 (1), Houmas 20. Moutran 5, Perakis 19 (3), Morfis 11.
Panorama: Behlivanis 5, Panaras 2, Falekas 13, Orfanos 6, Hatzipetrou 9, Kostas Kakaroudis (204-C-83) 26 (2), Kuburovic 16 (2), Henjak 4.

B' Division: Day 4 - Near East is the only unbeaten team! -by Chris Mammides

After the first four weeks the team of Head Coach Tolis Karnesis remained at the top of the league with a record of 4-0. In regards to the fourth week now the road win of Anagennisi Floga in Alimos is the one which is considered of more importance as Coach Giorgos Touloumis 's team balanced last week's negative result. Other than that, the top scorer of the 4th week was Sotiris Katoufas (206-F-79) of Ikaros Kallitheas with 28 points.

Aigio - Ikaroi Serron 64-58
Quarters: 20-14, 36-21, 51-35, 64-58.
Aigio: Deraos 7 (1), Prokos 8 (1), Tirlas 20 (1), Stamatopoulos 11, Liggos 4, Mandalakis 6, Manolas 8.
Ikaroi Serron: Pehlivanis 24 (3), Sdrakas 8 (2), Georgantzas 4, Paralikakis 4, Kadis 9 (1), Soutzopoulos 2, Teventzidis 7.

Ikaros Kallitheas - Olympiakos Volou 85-71
Quarters: 21-21, 36-36, 61-59, 85-71.
Ikaros Kallitheas: Martzos 9 (1), Georgiou 11, Emmanouilidis 9, Grillis 2, Katranas 12 (4), Evangelitsis 9, Sotiris Katoufas 28 (1), Koukouras 5 (1).
Olympiakos Volou: Nanis 18 (1), Tsourelis 14 (3), Arnaoutakis 7, Tsolis 19 (3), Mihos 3, Politis 2, Fountas 8 (1).

Lavrio - Doukas 78-71
Quarters: 17-15, 34-26, 56-44, 78-71.
Lavrio: Trikaliotis 8, Rallis 4 (1), Kassanos 4, Kousoulas 10 (2), Giannopoulos 12 (1), Agapitos 8, Notis 3 (1), Bakas 7, Psileas 22 (3).
Doukas: Tsohlas 6 (2), Mantzioris 18, Petrakis 3, Karatzios 16 (3), Achis 2, Kouvaris 6, Kritsalos 20.

Near East - Ermis Lagkada 60-58
Quarters: 17-13, 39-24, 52-42, 60-58.
Near East: Nikou 6, Michalos 13 (2), Lykogiannis 3, Kouklakis 12 (4), Papoulidis 3, Christos Gavanopoulos (198-G-85) 21 (3), Stamatis 2.
Ermis: Troulialis 4, Bellos 14 (2), Papakonstantinou 12, Vourlitis 1, Siolios 5, Lefkaditis 2, Akepsimaidis 6, Dimitriadis 14 (2).

Komotini - Goumenissa 76-69
Quarters: 28-13, 40-40, 55-56, 76-69.
Komotini: Mouzakitis 4, Holevas 3, Kostas Dinas (189-G/F-80) 17 (2), Koutsovassilis 3 (1), Tsakonitis 9 (1), Veli 17 (4), Athanasios Souflias (209-C-80, college: S.New Hampshire) 23.
Goumenisa: Baggi 24 (1), Imeridis 2, Matenidis 11 (1), Klepkos 3, Andreadis 5 (1), Antoniadis 6, Karnavas 2, Gotsos 14 (1), Tatsis 2.

Amyntas - KAOD 87-78
Quarters: 22-21, 39-31, 68-61 and 87-78.
Amyntas: Zoupas 27, Barbas 8 (1), Samothrakis 12 (1), Christofakis 4, Grammatikos 8 (2), Korizis 5, Dorkofikis 3 (1), Vogiatzis 8, Moumouris 12 (1).
KAOD: Papadopoulos 2, Kioses 4, Giorgos Filiousis (198-G-77) 21 (3), Michaelides10 (2), Maslarinos 17 (3), Koukouravas 21 (4), Daliaris 2.

Makedonikos - Milonas 84-74
Quarters: 26-20, 48-42, 63-55 and 84-74.
Makedonikos: Dalpas 18, Tanakidis 11 (2), Christos Pantsios (193-G-86) 19, Mitsakis 14 (1), Kogias 3, Goulas 5 (1), Karipidis 4, Samourellis 8.
Milonas: Kalaitzakis 6, Ventouris 10 (2), Karababas 10, Vlavianos 16 (4), Kiritsis 6, Bourazanis 5 (1), Efstratiou 11, Ballas 10.

Alimos - Anagennisi Floga 53-60
Quarters: 6-18, 25-30, 43-49, 53-60.
Alimos: Moutoupas 6, Koutsoukos 6, Kallimanas 3, Yfantis 10, Tsolakis 10, Tzougarakis 2, D. Kalatzis 7, Anthis 9 (1).
Anagennisi Floga: Rozolis 7, Moysiadis 5 (1), Touloumis 1, Pittakas 8, Sidiropoulos 2, Zarogiannis 10, Thymnios 7, Spyropoulos 8 (1), Pallis 12.

Top scorers after the four weeks

Nick Psileas of Lavrio 85 points (21 points per game)

Tasos Dimitriadis of Ermis Lagkada 82 points

Giorgos Tirlas of Aigio 77 points

Dimitris Prokos of Aigio 77 points

Panagiotis Tsolis (194-F-81) of Olympiakos Volou 76 points

Konstantinos Pehlivanis (192-G-79) of Ikaroi Serron 75 points

Panagiotis Nanis (195-F/G-80) of Olympiakos Volou 74 points

Konstantinos Pehlivanis (192-G-79) of Ikaroi Serron 75 points

Sotiris Katoufas of Ikaros Kallitheas 73 points

Michalis Tanakidis (190-G-81) of Makedonikos 67 points

Nicos Papakonstantinou of Ermis Lagkada 63 points

Kostas Dinas of Komotini 64 points

Giorgos Filiousis of KAOD 62 points

Mihalis Ifantis (204-F-72) of Alimos 58 points



*****************************************************
HUNGARY

Torey Thomas in Hungary! -by Tamas Deri
American top guard, Torey Thomas (180-G-85) will arrive tomorrow in Hungary and start to practice with his first european club, POLAROID-LAMI-VED KORMEND. Thomas, who graduated on Holy Cross University this summer, was the key guard of his NCAA-team and averaged: 13.7ppg, 4.7rpg, 4.7apg, 2.8spg, FGP: 37.5%, 3Pts: 40.3%, FT: 77.1%. He tried to come to the NBA and was with 4 teams this summer: Boston Celtics, New York Knicks, New Jersey Nets and Utah Jazz. As he did not get to the strongest league of the world, him and his management decided to take a job in Europe.

*****************************************************
IBL

IBL Adds Expansion Team in Edmonton, Alberta, Canada -by Trask Frost
Portland, OR—The International Basketball League is excited to announce that a team from Edmonton, Alberta, Canada will join the league for the upcoming 2008 season. The team will be owned by local Edmonton business group SMG Pro Hoops Ltd and will be named the Edmonton Chill. The Chill will play their home games at the Sports & Wellness Center at Grant MacEwan.

Paul Sir, Head Coach and Director of Basketball Operations—“We are proud to bring the Chill to the city of champions. It provides a fast pace with the league average being 127 points per game per team. We want the basketball fan young and old to come out and have a great time.”

The Edmonton Chill Vice President, Michael Tratch believes the people of Edmonton will embrace the IBL and its up-tempo style that (the IBL) is known for—“The IBL was a natural choice for [its] great entertainment value for fans”—stated Tratch.

The Chill have already begun signing sponsorship deals including Edmonton Web Pages, Cameron's Meat, Dynateam Realty, Basketball Alberta, 7-11, Yukon Brewery, Alaska Airlines/Horizon Airlines, Saleient, Grant MacEwan College, Rose & Crown Pub and Sherlock Holmes Pub.

A press conference will be scheduled within the next few weeks to announce team management, logo and colors. IBL Commissioner Mikal Duilio will be present.

The Edmonton Chill's office will be located at #200, 7915 104 Street, Edmonton, Alberta.

*****************************************************
IRAN

Mahram stayed unbeatable -by Mahin Gorgy
Toney Madison and Samad Nikkhah helped Mahram to stay unbeatable after they visited Kaveh.
In the 6th week of Iran basketball super league, Mahram passed Kaveh 71-58.

Kaveh, who came from the first division this season, shows well prepared as they put a lot of pressure on Saba last week and Mahram.

With Saeed Davarpanah and Jurkovic Ivica 206/CF/73 high level performance kaveh shocked Mustafa Hashemi's boy as the first quarter finished 15-13. in the second quarter samad was the king of the basket and when Tony Madison got help of his experiences, Mahram could pass the night mare of 27 - 17 and went to the locker room by one point ahead 35-34. In the third quarter Kaveh lost the way of scoring and it was the golden opportunity for Mustafa Hashemi to lead his players for the 6th victory and when Coach Farzad Kouhian couldn't find the way of back, his team lost with 13 points. Kaveh, who played brilliant in confrontation of Saba in the 5th week, now have 2 lost.

Here is the result:

Gol Gohar 83 Beem 86
Pardis 80 Gorgan 64
Ararat 81 Petrochimi 85
Shahr e kord 81 Azad Un.68

*****************************************************
ISRAEL

Tamir signs with Holon -by Elad Zeevi
The talented Israeli forward/center Amit Tamir (208-C-79, agency: Arik Krayn Services, college: California) will join the newcomer shining roster in the next few days after he agreed terms with Holon in a two-year contract. Tamir started the season in Ukraine with Cherkasy, but he wasn't happy there, and decided to comeback to Israel, after playing many years abroad. during the summer Tamir played with the Israeli NT, and was an integral part of the team success in the European Championship.

*****************************************************
ITALY

Market news and rumors -by Stefano Pini
Cimberio Varese added to his roster Steponas Babrauskas (197-G/F-84). The idea is that the player can bring energy, defense and some shots to the backcourt. Virtus Bologna decided to suspend Delonte Holland (201-F-82, college: De Paul) due to problems with his coach. He won't play against Zalgiris in Euroleague. Is a tough moment for Armani Jeans Gino Natali took his responsabilities and resigned as GM of the team Also Eldo Napoli is on the market, looking for frontline players ready to help the team.

Milano changes coach -by Gianni Pascucci

Just after the resignation of GM Gino Natali , the officials of Armani Jeans Milano decided yesterday to fire coach Zare Markovski, replacing him with Attilio Caja , who is back on the Milano bench after three years.



Lega2 - Market news -by Gabriele Fioretti
Livorno got a new player to substitute temporary the bigman injured Troy Ostler (209-F-78, college: Hawaii). With a slovenian passport, Milos Paravinja (212-C/F-79, agency: Interperformances) will play with Livorno until December 2nd.

*****************************************************
JORDAN

Shanneik .... A jordanian rising star in Germany -by Mohammed Malas
Is there any other jordanian player we don't know playing abroad? The answer is YES...He's Abdul Aziz Shanneik (185-G-90), A jordanian youngester is beginning his basketball career in Germany with a club called SCH WUERZBURG BASKETS in german Regionlliga (3rd division there).

Shanneik was born in 1990 and plays as a point guard/shooting guard, He joind his current team Wuzburg from DJK preppering castile, Young Cunners in 2005, He played some games in men's team last season and currently he's in the official roster waiting for chance to be a great potential for jordan, The team is currently 11 in their group (South-East) among 14 after playing 8 games (Won only two).

Good luck for Shanneik and hope for him the best.....

*****************************************************
KAZAKHSTAN

National champoinship tipped off in Kostanay -by Eurobasket News
Kazakhstan National Division 1 basketball championship started recently in Kostanay. It was held throughout four days and proved the preseason predictions. Once again it was Astana Tigers who reigned the court during four days of basketball. Astana Tigers celebrated 4 straight wins and topped the ladder. Tobol tried to match the tempo set by Tigers and succeeded at home snatching 3 victories. Tobol however needed some luck as they overcame TSM by just a single point 86:85 on the last day of action.
Many predicted some surprises from BC Almaty but they dissappointed their fans losing three out of four encounters.
The Kazakhstan National federation handed out some prizes for top players at this round. Aleksey Prohorenko (214-C-74) from TSM was named the best centre of the round. Egor Biryulin (185-G-86) and Evgeni Isakov (203-F-82) of Astana Tigers were named the best guard and forward of the round respectevily. Tobol's Aleksandr Verenich (203-F-71) received MVP award.
Rustam Yargaliyev (195-F-86) was the top scorers of the round nailing 64 points. Anton Ponomarev (209-C-88) pulled down 24 boards to lead all rebounders.
The National Federation announced that the second round of the championship will be held in Almaty from 20th through 25th of November.

Day 1
Astana Tigers - TSM 82:72
Barsy Atyrau - Tobol 76:115

Day 2
Astana Tigers - Barsy Atyrau 114:68
Tobol - BC Almaty 98:94

Day 3
Barsy Atyrau - TSM 85:105
BC Almaty - Astana Tigers 60:89

Day 4
TSM - BC Almaty 91:80
Astana Tigers - Tobol 86:77

Day 5
BC Almaty - Barsy Atyrau 104:97
Tobol - TSM 86:85

*****************************************************
KOREA

LG Sakers Top Orions In Dague -by Rick Ross

It was an early battle of 2 undefeated teams 2-0 in the KBL
LG Sakers came out thundering and managed to keep its lead
The Whole entire Game winning 91-71 to the Host Dague Orions,
Warner Calvin (201-F/C-80, college: Jacksonville) was as Hot as Nellie shooting 12 for 15 netting
29 points and grabbing 9 rebs. Blankson Odartey (201-F/G-82, agency: Naiditch Entertainment, college: UNLV)

was steady notching 19 points and grabbing 9 rebs, as Lg Sakers command a 3-0 lead in the KBL.

Kim Byung chul led Orions with 17 points along with Robert Brannen netting 12 points,

Tonights action will see Dongbu Promy Vs ET BlackSlam and SK Knights Vs KTF



*****************************************************
LATVIA

Skele leads Barons to the first win in BBL -by Eurobasket News

Barons/LMT -Valmiera 94 : 77 ( 26-22, 22-26, 27-19, 19-10 )

Barons celebrated the first win in the Elite Division of Baltic league. In the game of the Latvian teams barons overcame Valmiera 94:77. Armands Skele (192-G-83) top-scored for the winners with 23 points. Darnell ended up the game with 15 points, while Giedrius Gustas (190-G-80, agency: Interperformances) scored 13. Vladimir Stimac (208-C-87, agency: Interperformances) produced 24 points and made 11 rebounds in defeat.

Barons started the game on a high note and spurted with 20:13 in the opening tip. Till the end of the quarter Valmiera managed to get closer, 26:22. The teams showed the same score in the second quarter, however at that time Valmiera advantaged with 26:22.
Armands Skele scored 13 points in the third quarter and after his dunk it was 58:53 for Barons. The team regained their lead, 75:67 at the end of the third quarter. A 19:10 in the final one brought the first win for Barons in the league, while Valmiera fell at 1-5.

The next games are scheduled for October 23rd. Latvian ASK Riga will try to recover after a pity loss from Lietuvos Rytas against Rock. Kalev will meet Ventspils in Estonia.



Barons/LMT: Armands Skele 23, Darnell 15, Giedrius Gustas 13
Valmiera: Vladimir Stimac 24+11 rebs, Ingus Bankevics (195-G/F-85, agency: FCM) 18



Ventspils wins the battle of winless -by Eurobasket News
Kalev/Cramo-Ventspils 77 : 86 ( 22-20, 15-23, 17-21, 23-22 )

Latvian Ventspils grabbed the road win in the game of winless teams. Trailing 20:22 to Estonian Kalev, the team won anyway 86:77. Jimmy Baxter (198-G-80, college: S.Florida) led the winners with 22 points. Kaspars Cipruss (210-C-82) netted 20, while Uvis Helmanis (203-F-72, agency: Stanley International) added 11. Marlon Parmer (191-G-80, agency: HM Sports Agency, college: Ky Wesleyan) had a great game for the hosts producing 28 points.

Kalev/Cramo started the campaign with 22:20 in the opening quarter. In the second quarter it was difficult to believe that the hosts would fail. Kalev held 28:22 after Kangur scored two pointers. Latvian team made 9-2 to win the half 37:43.

In the third quarter Gabrans with a three increased the lead of the visitors to 10 points. Jimmy Baxter made sure Venspils had the same deficit in the end, making 54:64.
Jimmy Baxter scored first 9 points for his team in the fourth quarter and after his second three it was the game over for the hosts, 56:71. Kalev tried hard to recover, but Vitols three made the final score in the court. Ventspils gets the first win and improves to 1-2.

Kalev/Cramo: Marlon Parmer 28, Travis Reed (203-C-79, agency: Court Side, college: Long Beach St.) 16+11 rebs, Kangur 14
Ventspils: Jimmy Baxter 22, Kaspars Cipruss 20, Uvis Helmanis 11

ASK Riga achieved another win in BBL beating Rock -by Eurobasket News
ASK Riga-Rock Tartu 78 : 59 ( 27-20, 19-8, 16-11, 16-20 )

ASK Riga came back on track after a loss from Rytas. Tonight in Riga the team beat Rock Tartu 78 : 59. Dwayne Broyles (196-F/G-82, college: JMU) led the winners with 16 points. Sandis Buskevics (190-G-77) posted 13, while Sandis Valters (193-G/F-78, agency: Arik Krayn Services) added 11. Vallo Allingu (206-C-78) was the only one to reach double digits for the guests ending the game with 10 points.

Sandis Valters and Dwayne Broyles helped ASK Riga to rise over Tartu Rock after the first quarter 27:20. The home team played tough defense and let the visitors to finish with only 8 points in the second quarter. ASK Riga had 18 points advantage as the teams disappeared in the lockers.

The situation did not change in the last two quarters of the game. ASK Riga played the same basketball, however downed the tempo. In the third quarter Rock Tartu stayed far from the hosts with the score, but even the game. In the last quarter the guests even were satisfied having 20:16 victory.
ASK Riga reached the 5th win in Baltic league and caught Rytas. The latter however has no losses all. Rock fell at 1-3, but stays in the middle of the standings.

ASK Riga: Dwayne Broyles 16, Sandis Buskevics 13, Sandis Valters 11
Rock Tartu: Vallo Allingu 10, Asko Paade (206-F-84) 9, Silver Leppik (185-G-83) 9

*****************************************************
LITHUANIA

Techasas Panevezys loses an overtime thriller -by Eurobasket News
VEF Riga-Techasas Panevezys 82 : 74 OT( 24-22, 14-21, 10-15, 22-12 12-4 )

Techasas Panevezys lost the overtime thriller in Riga and got the second straight loss in the Baltic League. VEF Riga produced 22:12 in the last quarter to tie the score before the overtime and then spurted with 12:4 in it. Maris Gulbis (200-F-85, agency: Interperformances) led the winners with 29 points. Reinis Strupovics (191-G-87) posted 23, while Shelekto added 14. Zydrunas Urbonas (198-F-76) top-scored for Lithuanian team with 16 points.

VEF Riga took a control of the game from the first minutes and went on a 8-2 run. Gailitis however could give Riga 2 points after the first quarter making a shot.
In the beginning of the second quarter Riga was still in front but then Panevezys grabbed the lead. Tatarunas with a three made the score 32:35. Mindaugas Budzinauskas (198-G-73) sent the teams to the lockers at 38:43 for the guests. A 10:15 in the third and Lithuanian team had 10 points before the last 10 minutes of the game.
VEF Riga however used more than 10 minutes to recover. At first the team tied the score in the end of the fourth and then beat Lithuanian team in overtime. A 82:74 lifts Latvian team to 3-1. Techasas Panevezys fell at 3-2 and will try to improve in the next game.

VEF Riga: Maris Gulbis 29, Reinis Strupovics 23, Shelekto 14
Techasas Panevezys: Zydrunas Urbonas 16, Mindaugas Budzinauskas 15, Mike Smith (190-G, college: St.Francis (IL)) 15

*****************************************************
LUXEMBOURG

The Wrap -by Alexis Kreps

The Wrap

After the fifth round of B-Ball in Luxembourg some teams are starting to dance and others look like me on the dance floor, not a pretty site. Last years second best team in the league T 71 Dudelange hosted Amicale Amicale Steinsel. Due to a controversy at the foreign player spot they have fallen once again. Schumacher and Co. couldn't prevent their team from another negative result, the fourth in five games OUCH! (70:76). For Amicale Steinsel, where Head coach Rick Brooks celebrated his comeback, it was the second win in a row.
Etzella Ettelbruck on the other hand remain undefeated runnin the veteran squad from AB Contern out of the gym. The team is better than ever and that saying alot we know the powerful play of newcomer Marcus Kennedy (193-F-84, college: Montevallo) and the Delgado cousins dominence reigns supreme but the spark plug energy and lethal combination this year may prove to be young Cedric Schroeder (196-F-83) and one of the best PGs in the league Tim Giver (185-G-80) easy victory for the boys in blue(92:69). Next week the cup-holders will have to face the champions BBC BBC Sparta Bertrange Bertrange which will easily be the game to watch of the 6th round.
After its stunning loss against the Musel Pikes one week ago, the squad from Black Star Mersch Mersch had to face the newcomer from Residence Walferdange Walferdange. After beating the teams from BBC Nitia Bettembourg and AS Soleuvre at home, the team from Residence Walferdange could celebrate another home win on Saturday and stay unbeaten at the Centre Prince Henri. Black Star Mersch now looking to stay alive and must be trying to catch the rythym.
After its first loss of the season against T71 Dudelange, BBC Sparta Bertrange looked to get back on track against the other newcomer team bettembourg. After an evenly matched first quarter, Smith and Co. went on a tear to lead at halftime (58:32). Coach Philippe Giberti was able to let his whole squad get much coveted game time experience in the second.
Finally replacing Nemanja Matejic (202-F/C-82) by Sean Hampton (195-F-75, agency: R.H.Consultancy, college: Alderson-Broaddus) AS Soleuvre stole their first win of the season by beating the Musel Pikes in Remich. Although the Pikes led 68:58 at the beginning of the last quarter, Hampton dropped 43 must have the rest of the league wondering if they might need to make a change as well to keep up.
Players of the week
Sean Hampton (195-F-75, agency: R.H.Consultancy, college: Alderson-Broaddus)
Nelson Delgado (185-G-80)
Larrie Smith (195-F-75, college: Tennessee Tech)
Will Brand (196-F-80, agency: Scorers 1st Sportmanagement, college: Albany)
Christian Schartz (184-G-86)
Maurice Hargrow (195-G-83, agency: Worldwide Hoops, college: Minnesota)



*****************************************************
MEXICO

Latest results from the LNBP -by Carlos Chapa
On sunday the Halcones UV Xalapa refrained their unbeated mark to defeat the Bravos Piedras Negras - Eagle Pass (106-92) and put a 14-0 record, remaining in the top of the Southern Zone.

An konockout win was recorded by the Soles de Mexicali who beated the Panteras de Aguascalientes with a score of 100-71, Mexicali's dominance started to
remain since the second quarter, in which they got up to a score of 53 to 33 at halftime, the rest of the game was played by reserves, who got chance to show thier skills to local crowd. The high man was Greg Lewis (198-F-78, college: Winthrop) (198-F-78, college: Winthrop) with 32 points, 11 rebounds and 1 assist.

Fuerza Regia Monterrey won thier third streight, this time against Pioneros de Quintana Roo-Cancun, the game was caracterised by a slow defense displayed by Pioneros, and an entire new face showed by the Regios with new coach, Jose Martinez ; this time he rotated his bench giving playing time to everybody, and used three point shots,
Fernando Del Angel (195-G/F-75) made 4 out of 6, Gerald Williams (190-G-68, college: New Orleans) leaded Monterrey with 16, and Omar Quintero (183-G-81, agency: Paris Global Sports, college: S.Nazarene) made 15. On the other side Jorge Serrano (186-G-76) made 29 points to lead all

CIBACOPA owners meeting -by Alejandro Martinez
CIBACOPA's owners held their 2nd meeting in preparation to the upcoming 2008 season this past sunday. Owners agreed to start the season on February 22, 2008, which may bring some scheduling conflict with the LNBP; slated to end in March. In addition, Hermosillo is close to returning to the league after a 2 season exile. The city of Ensenada is also expressing interest. Owners agreed on a 40 game schedule, which will be released in the month of november. Roster rules are likely to remain the same, with the possible addition of the "pocho" player (mexican-american). The next meeting will be held in Hermosillo on November 11th 2007, and it is anticipated that important and final decisions will be made at that meeting (rules, new teams).

*****************************************************
MOROCCO

2007-2008 League started -by Nour Amri
Morocco's basketball season gots underway on Saturday with the same inevitable question on everybody's lips: would this season be different, or are we going to watch again the same 3 top teams “fighting” for the title.
Back in early October, the reigning Champions (MAS) won IRT in the preseason “Lahrizi Tournament” final. A quick analysis of this tournament shows that most of the participants are still tuning their team as many of them refresh their rosters.
But this year's competition will most likely be very interesting with two new teams joining Division 1 : CMC from Casablanca and MET from Tantan. We will inform you soon about all the summer transfers and updates of all teams rosters for this new season.

Day 1 games:
CMC vs IRT / ASS vs WAC / KAC vs MAS / RCA vs FUS / TSC vs MET

Day 1 Results -by Nour Amri
Morocco Regular Season: Day 1 results:
On Saturday night, newcomer Division 1 team CMC has made things very difficult to IRT who suffered and struggled to get his first win of the season by one point with Mustapha Khalfi's buzzer shot (74-75). The game of the week was RCA-FUS where both teams offered a nice heart break game, having the local taking the last word with a close score win (62-59).
All Results : CMC # IRT = 74/75 - ASS # WAC = 78/82 - KAC # MAS = 54/68 - RCA # FUS = 61/59 - TSC # MET = 78/65

*****************************************************
NEW ZEALAND

Rick Rickers named NBL Player of the Week -by Eurobasket News
New Zealand Breakers' forward Rick Rickert (210-F-83, college: Minnesota) was awarded the title of the Australian NBL Player of the Week after he helped his team gain two straight victories. American import averaged 26.5 points, 8.0 rebounds and 1.5 assists as the Breakers claimed two wins and improved to 3-2 record in the NBL ladder.
Rick Rickert opened the week with a 30 points and 13 rebounds game against the Adelaide 36ers. The Breakers meanwhile drove to a 116:107 victory at the end. Later the Breakers travelled to Singapore and recorded their first win ever in Singapore as they rolled past Slingers 116:99. Rick Rickert provided 23 points, 3 rebounds and 1 assist in win. His season stats improved to 22.4 points and 10.4 rebounds per game. Breakers' forward also shoots 55.8% from the field and ranked 4th in offensive rebounds (4.4). Rick Rickert joined New Zealand Breakers before the current season. He spent last year together with Colorado 14ers in NBDL. There he averaged 10.8 points and 6.0 rebounds per game.
The other contenders for the weekly prize included Cortez Groves (196-G/F-78, college: Kansas St.) who notched a spectacular 44 points in his South Dragons loss to Brisbane. Kirk Penney (194-G-80, college: Wisconsin) also was among the selection as he averaged 25 points in the round.
Another contenders were CJ Bruton (188-G-75, college: Indian Hills CC) (28.5 points, 4 assists and 3.5 rebounds), Sam Mackinnon (197-F/G-76) (18.5 points, 13 rebounds and 5 assists) and Sean Redhage (202-F-81, agency: Warren Sports, college: Arizona St.) (28 points, 8 assists and 4 boards).
Chris Anstey (213-C-75), James Harvey (196-G/F-79), Darnell Hinson (186-G-80, college: Northeastern St.) and Sean Redhage got the prize for the first four weeks of the season respectively.

*****************************************************
PARAGUAY

Quadrangolar last results -by Gianni Pascucci
Scoring 30 points, Jamal Nichols (206-F, college: De Paul) paced one time more Sol de America,being also the main factor in the win, 75-69 over tableheader Deportivo San Jose. Guillermo Araujo (204-C-82) added 15 pts in Sol and Bruno Martinessi (202-F-81, college: Union (TN)) was the besrt in San Jose with 23 pts. In the other game of the night, Libertad defeated 80-55 a Felix Perez Cardozo too conditioned by the absence of teh import Melvin Jones (206-F-84, college: St.John's), who went back to USA due to family reasons. With 18 points, Micah Brand (210-C-80, agency: CAA Sports, college: Massachusetts) was the top performer in Libertad, Daniel Perez (190-G/F-84) and Gustavo Torres (175-G-80) added 15 and 14, respectively. The standings of the Quadrangolar are now as follows: San Jose 4, Libertad 4, Sol de America 3, Felix Perez 2.50

*****************************************************
PUERTO RICO

Gigantes de Carolina, after Carmona, Tyler Brown -by Alessandro Fontana
Gigantes de Carolina signs Tyler Brown (193-G-75, college: S.Carolina) for the BSN 2008. Last year He played always for Carolina with 12,07pts (51% 2pts, 35% 3pts, 71% FT) 2,7assts and 3,7rebs per game. Brown is a leader and he is not only a scorer, he can also defend very hard. Carolina has a great team for next BSN. The team signed "Bimbo" Alejandro Carmona (194-G/F-83, agency: Next Level) a week ago and they have in the roster also Angelo Reyes (205-F/C-81), Ivan Ruiz (206-F/C-83) and it is possible that Donald Copeland (178-G-84, college: Seton Hall) will play in Carolina after his experience in Poland.

Aneuris Liriano is declared "free agent" and He can sign with any team for next season. Liriano played in 2006 for Indios de Mayaguez with 2,2pts and 1,4rebs per game.
A. Fontana

*****************************************************
RUSSIA

CSKA wins Euroleague opener -by Eurobasket News
Prokom - CSKA 69:88

CSKA did not waste too much time to start proving little have changed from the last European season and they are still one of the main contenders on the Euroleague scene. Moscow team opened their Euroleague season on the road against ambitious Prokom and drove to a confident victory. Polish champion were one of the biggest newsmaker on the preseason market and strengthen their squad with some well-known names. However it seemed not to worry CSKA as Russian champion entered Euroleague in a perfect manner.
Prokom superstar Milan Gurovic (207-F-76, agency: Beo Basket) ignited the starting run of the hosts and Prokom led 16:9 early on. But CSKA needed just a couple of minutes to adjust and the spark came from CSKA newcomer Nikos Zisis (195-G-83). Greek guard came off the bench and fueled a 10:0 run for Moscow side as they surged ahead. CSKA later posted another 10:0 rally and finished the first half in front 45:32. Smodis finally found the touch from the range and kept CSKA ahead in the third stanza. Moreover Russian team extended the lead to 19 points after three quarters of action 69:50. CSKA just could not stop dropping shots in the second half and Prokom simply stopped defensively. Smodis nailed consecutive treys to extend the lead to as many as 22 points in the fourth stanza and cruised to an overall win.
Matjaz Smodis (205-F-79) topscored for CSKA with 18 points. Nikos Zisis added 15 points, while David Andersen (212-C-80) had 10 points for the winners. Milan Gurovic drained game-high 25 points for Prokom. DaJuan Wagner (191-G-83, college: Memphis) and Donatas Slanina (192-G-77) secured 10 points apiece in defeat.
CSKA sank 54% from the field, including 52% from three point range. They also outrebounded the hosts 29:26. CSKA will next face Siena on October 31st.

Prokom: Milan Gurovic 25, DaJuan Wagner 10, Donatas Slanina 10
CSKA: Matjaz Smodis 18, Nikos Zisis 15, David Andersen 10

*****************************************************
SERBIA

Serbian B league: Third round -by Dragan Jankovski
After three rounds of Serbian B league Tamis Petrohemija, Vujic Metalac and Crnokosa are on the top without defeat. Sloboda and Zeleznicar are on the bottom of the table as they didn't make any win this season.

Sloboda - Vujic Metalac 82:87
(23:34, 17:11, 19:20, 23:22)

Tamis Petrohemija - FMP 2 79:72
(19:14, 17:18, 13:20, 30:20)

Beograd - Proleter Naftagas 96:85
(21:28, 28:16, 25:16, 22:25)

Kikinda - Vrbas 70:75
(15:20, 15:20, 22:09, 18:26)

Prva Petoletka - Crnokosa 92:103
(18:34, 22:12, 28:22, 24:35)

Kotez Bambi - Zeleznicar 84:69
(24:15, 17:18, 19:19, 24:17)

Beovuk 72 - Vojvodina 92:78
(31:16, 22:27, 18:10, 21:25)

Tadija Dragicevic extended contract with Crvena Zvezda till 2010 -by Dragan Jankovski
The captain of Crvena Zvezda from Belgrade, Tadija Dragicevic (205-F-86), extended contract with the team until summer 2010. Together with Partizan, Zvezda is currently on the top of Adriatic league with 5 wins and 1 defeat while Dragicevic is the leading scorer and rebounder of the team so far. He averaged 20.5 ppg and 5.1 rpg in the first six rounds of Adriatic league.

Dragicevic grew up in Zvezda's young selections. He spent one very successful season on loan in Mega Ishrana.

Zoran Sretenovic is the new head coach of Igokea Partizan -by Dragan Jankovski
Head coach Zoran Sretenovic agreed terms with Bosnian top team Igokea Partizan. Couple of days ago the team terminated contract with Miodrag Kadija after defeat against Sloboda Dita at home in Bosnian league. Sretenovic had great basketball career as a player. As a head coach he used to work in Buducnost Podgorica.

*****************************************************
SPAIN

Corsley Edwards will play for Rosalia -by Francisco Martinez
Corsley Edwards (206-C/F-79, agency: Edge Sports, college: Cent.Conn.St.) was playing for CB Granada since Curtis Borchardt (211-C-80, college: Stanford) was injured for the beginning of the season and the club looked for a replacement for the first games. But at this moment Curtis Borchardt is recovered and ready to debut in the next weekend. So, Granada did not extend the contract of Corsley Edwards anymore and he has foun his new destiny in Santiago de Compostela. There, the team of the city, Beirastar Rosalia, just promoted to LEB Gold, is surprising everybody with a superb defense that had led them to the leadership of the competition after 5 rounds. They are unbeaten and now Corsley Edwards will be a new reference together with his best offensive player, Brad Oleson (191-G-83, agency: Duran International, college: Alaska-Fairbanks).

*****************************************************
TBL

The 2007 Texas Basketball League Draft... Explained -by Benjamin Brinkley
The 2007 Texas Basketball League Draft will be held on October 26,2007 through a conference call between all twelve teams. Live coverage of the draft will begin at 7p.m. CST on usbasket.com. Here is all of the information that you need to know about the draft format and how it works.

2007 October Draft Order
Unlike the NBA and other professional sports drafts, the Texas Basketball League Draft follows a serpentine format. That is, the order of selection will be reversed in each round. For example, with the Suns selecting first in the First Round, then will make the last selection in the second round. The draft is three rounds long, so a total of 36 players will be selected.

Listed below is the complete draft order of the first round.
1) Suns
2) Cavaliers
3) Lakers
4) Mavericks
5) Celtics
6) Spurs
7) Sonics
8) Heat
9) Pistons
10) Knicks
11) Bulls
12) Kings

Draft Eligibility and the Texas Basketball League Player Contract
The rules of eligility for the Texas Basketball League Draft are very simple. Players must sign a standard player uniform contract with the Texas Basketball League to be placed in the Texas Basketball League's player pool and be eligible for the draft. The standard contract is one year in duration, but players are relieved of their contract obligations if they happen to sign a contract with an semi-pro team at any point during the season. Under the contract players can receive bonuses if their team makes the playoffs or if they earn individual accolades such as Most Valuable Player, Rookie of the Year, and First-Team All League. Even if a player is not drafted, they will remain in the player pool and can be acquired later in the season by a team if needed due to another player's departure.

Locating Players
The Texas Basketball League's Basketball Operations staff is always hard at work looking for players to sign. They scout the local / nation summer leagues, universities colleges, and semi-pro basketball camps (ex. Infosports) as well as international leagues for players, and also sign a large number of players who are cut from other semi-pro training camps from July thru December.

What's Next?
After the draft, players will attend training camp with their teams, which typically begin in the second week of November. The ten drafted players will join free-agent players and possibly one to two player who are invited to camp from Open Tryouts in a bid to make the opening night roster.

Texas Basketball League Announces First Ever Regional Basketball Tryouts -by Benjamin Brinkley
Greensboro, NC -- The Texas Basketball League is preparing for the league's first ever regional basketball tryout camp next Saturday at the YCMA of Greater High Point (Central Family Branch) in High Point, NC. Players from all over the region, and all over the country, have registered for this regional event. The response and level of interest in the camp has been tremendous, according to Texas Basketball League's principle owner Benjamin Brinkley.

"We've had over 70 players register thus far for the tryout, which is fantastic and gives us a great pool of talent from which to draw," explained Brinkley.

Some notable local players who have indicated they will be at the camp include: 6'11" forward EJ Johnson from Greensboro Area; shooting guard Rodney Blackstock from World Basketball Association, and forward David Johnson from the International Basketball League. Blackstock played professional in WBA last season where he was a future All-Star.

Regional big name players such as Greensboro natives Greg Ward and William Barnes are also expected to be at the camp as well as 6'10 power forward / center, Pat Cooper. Other players have registered for the camp from as far away as Pennsylvania, New York, New Jersey, Georgia and Florida.

Registration and sign-ins will be between 10am until 12 noon on next Saturday. The players hit the court from 2pm-6pm.with drills and then eventually the players will be broken down into teams and scrimmage each other. When the camp wraps up at 6 pm, all players will be selected to participate in the Texas Basketball League's training camp on Wednesday, November 7, 2007.

Pre-registration ends Thursday, November 1st, 2007 at midnight, so all interested players, who haven't done so already, are encouraged to go online and email: texasbasketballeague@yahoo.com and pre-register. Pre-registered players will pay a $50 tryout fee while players who register at the door will pay $100.

For out of area players, Piedmont Triad International Airport is conveniently served by Delta Airlines. For hotel reservations, please call the Crestwood Suites at 2860 N. Main Street, High Point, North Carolina directly if you need a reservation. Phone number: 336-886-5667

Members of the media and the general public are invited to attend the camp and observe the proceedings. The YCMA of Greater High Point (Central Family Branch) is located at 150 W. Hartley Dr., Greensboro, NC 27265.

The next regional basketball tryout will be held in New York, NY, followed by Miami, Florida, Phoenix, AZ, Kansas City, MO and Houston, TX. If you are interested in attending any of the regional basketball tryouts, please contact us at:

For more information call (336) 790-6193 or visit http://usbasket.com/TBL/TBL.asp, or email texasbasketballeague@yahoo.com

*****************************************************
U.KINGDOM

BBL Regular Season Off Until Friday -by Alain Reid
This week will give BBL teams a chance to catch up on rest and heal their injuries, in preparation for the weekend's big matches. The season's fixtures will return on Friday night with a big double header. Action will heat up again when the defending champion Guildford Heat play host to London Capital at 7:30 pm local time. In the night's second fixture, the Newcastle Eagles look to build off the momentum from their victory over the Sheffield Sharks when they take on the Cheshire Jets at home, 7.30 pm local time.

*****************************************************
U.S.VIRGIN ISL.

PRO REPORT -by David Edole
Spain
CIA Zaragoza snapped a two game losing streak by knocking off Ciudad de Huelva, 91-79, in Spanish Basketball League Gold Division. The Andalusian team had a last opportunity to win the game, but Alfredo Quinteros nailed two triples to seal the game. Cutbert Victor was very productive as he tallied 12 points, seven rebounds and four steals for Zaragoza. Zaragoza record now stands at 2-2 on the season in the LEB Gold Division.

Belgium
High scoring game in Verviers as Pepinster defeated Basket Bree, 101-94, in Belgian Basketball League action. Verviers held a, 53-47, lead at the half but Bree got back in the game thanks to a great third quarter where they outscored the Verviers, 16-24. Verviers however pulled together and thanks to a strong 32-23 final quarter keeping the home win. Josiah James finished with 15 points and two boards for Pepinster (2-3).

Japan
Carl Thomas and Hitachi Sunrockers dropped yet another Japan Basketball League contest to Rera Kamuy, 81-79, Sunday night. Thomas had 11 points, 9 boards, two assists and two blocks.

South Korea
Daegu Orions added forward Leon Trimmingham to their roster for the Korean Basketball League (KBL) season. Trimmingham has led Orions to a 2-0 record including a, 92-83, win over defending champions Mobis on the road.
Trimmingham recently played with Reales de La Vega in the Dominican Republic.

Bahrain
The Kitwana Rhymer has joined Al-Ahli basketball team of Bahrain's Premier Basketball League. Rhymer is coming off a very busy summer when he played for the Virgin Islands national team in Tournament of Americas and Pan Am games in Rio de Janeiro. In five games in Rio, Rhymer averaged 6.6ppg, 3.6rpg, 2FGP: 45.2%.
Al Ahli is the defending champions of the Premier League and won the preseason tournament of clubs. The regular season starts in November.

San Antonio 2007-08 Season Preview -by David Edole
San Antonio enters the 2007-08 campaign as the defending world champions. The Spurs captured their fourth title (1999, 2003, 2005, 2007) in nine years, as they swept LeBron James and the Cleveland Cavaliers in the NBA Finals.

They finished 58-24 during the regular season, and knocked out Denver, Phoenix and Utah in the Western Conference playoffs. All-Stars Tim Duncan (208-F-76, college: Wake Forest) and Tony Parker were once again the Spurs top players during the 2006-07 campaign and in the postseason. Duncan led the club in scoring (20.0 ppg) and rebounding (10.6 rpg) during the regular season, while Parker, who won the 2007 NBA Finals MVP, was second on the team in scoring (18.6 ppg) and was the team's top assist man at 5.5 per game.

Manu Ginobili and defensive stopper Bruce Bowen made their contributions, and both earned their third rings. Veteran forward Robert Horry picked up his seventh championship, while Parker also won his third and head coach Gregg Popovich and Duncan took home their fourth.

The defending world champions had a very quiet and uneventful offseason. San Antonio acquired guard Vassilis Spanoulis in a traded with Houston and signed free agent forward Ime Udoka, who spent last season with Portland. Matt Bonner, Fabricio Oberto and Jacque Vaughn re-signed with the team, while free agent big man Melvin Ely decided to ink a deal with New Orleans.

History is not on San Antonio's side this season. Following a championship, the Spurs have never made it past the Western Conference semifinals in the playoffs. In 2000 they fell in the opening round to Phoenix, and lost in the semis to the Lakers in 2004 and Dallas in 2006.

San Antonio enters the season with a veteran roster that is built to win now. Duncan, Parker and Ginobili, who posted 16.5 points, 4.4 rebounds and 3.5 assists during the 2006-07 regular season, are the stars, and their supporting cast is consists of role players who are happy to do their job and go along for the ride.

BACKCOURT

Parker, Finley and Ginobili give Popovich an excellent three-guard rotation to work with, while veteran Brent Barry is versatile and can play both guard spots. Ben Udrih, who suffered a non-displaced fracture of his left index finger in early October, and Vaughn give the Spurs plenty of depth in the backcourt.

The 25-year-old Parker has developed into one of the top point guards in the NBA. Not only is he one of the top play-making guards in the league, Parker has also become a dangerous scorer. The 6-2 Parker has the ability to take over a game single-handedly

Popovich will use Ginobili off the bench and as a starter when the team needs a different look. The 30-year-old Ginobili makes the Spurs a more dangerous squad when he is coming of the bench, as he is instant offense and usually injects life into the team when it is struggling.

As long as Parker continues his stellar play, the Spurs' backcourt is in good shape. Parker has an excellent all-around game and is a great floor leader. The sky is the limit for the two-time All-Star.

FRONTCOURT

Duncan is still one of the most dominant players in the game and is arguably the greatest power forward to ever lace up a pair of sneakers. He can defend, rebound and has a soft shot from 12-15 feet from the hoop. Entering his 10th season in the league, the 31-year-old Duncan has not lost a step.

Oberto came through during the postseason and will get a chance to start at center for the Spurs, while Francisco Elson will compete for minutes in the middle. Neither player is going to turn heads with bug numbers on the stat sheet, but both are effective in Popovich's game plan.

Bowen, averaged 6.2 points and 2.7 rebounds per game last season, and Udoka give the Spurs two solid defenders. The 37-year-old Horry will get minutes at center and power forward, but will save his best for the postseason.

OUTLOOK

San Antonio and Dallas will battle for bragging rights in the Southwest Division during the regular season. Pencil the Spurs in for their usual 50- plus victories and a high seed in the Western Conference playoffs.

Duncan, Ginobili and Parker are going to try and lead the Spurs to back-to- back titles. The Spurs are the hunted this season and will be put to the test every game. Popovich knows what it takes to win, but capturing consecutive championships is something the Spurs have not been able to achieve.

Phoenix Suns 2007-08 Season Preview -by David Edole
Phoenix is one of the favorites to capture the Western Conference. The Suns have a high-powered offense which is run by arguably the best point guard in the NBA.

The 2006-07 season was very entertaining for Phoenix' fans. The Suns won their third straight Pacific Division crown, and were one win shy of tying their season-best win total, which was accomplished in the 1992-93 and 2004-05 campaigns.

After opening the campaign by dropping five of its first six contests, Phoenix won 17 of 18 and 35 of its next 38 games. Head coach Mike D'Antoni, who made his All-Star coaching debut and was the 2004-05 NBA Coach of the Year, once again allowed his club to do what is does best, score. The Suns simply outscored their opponents with their free-wheeling offense.

Phoenix was led by its trio of All-Stars, as Amare Stoudemire, who proved he was once again 100 percent healthy after playing just three games in 2005-06, Shawn Marion and two-time NBA MVP Steve Nash all had outstanding campaigns. Stoudemire who underwent minor knee surgery in late September, led the Suns in scoring (20.4 ppg), while Marion, who expressed his desire to be traded during the offseason, was the team's top rebounder (9.8 rpg) and Nash dished out a league-best 11.6 assists per game.

Leandro Barbosa, who was the NBA's Sixth Man of the Year, had his best season, as he was third on the team in scoring (18.1 ppg) and gave D'Antoni a spark off the bench if the Suns started out slow. Raja Bell (196-F/G-76, agency: Interperformances, college: Florida Intern.) contributed offensively and was the team's top perimeter defender, while Boris Diaw was solid, but his production dropped off with the return of Stoudemire.

In the postseason, the Suns knocked off Kobe Bryant and the Los Angeles Lakers in five games in round one. It was the second year in a row that Phoenix ousted the Lakers in the opening round. The Suns were eliminated by the eventual NBA champion San Antonio Spurs, 4-2, in a very physical and emotional Western Conference semifinals series.

During the offseason, veteran forward Grant Hill inked a reported two-year deal with the Suns. A six-time All-Star, Hill averaged 14.4 points, 3.6 boards and 2.1 assists in 65 games for the Orlando Magic in 2006-07. The 35-year-old Hill gives Phoenix another versatile player off the bench who can score.

Phoenix Suns did trade 35-year-old center Kurt Thomas and two future first- round draft picks to the Seattle SuperSonics in exchange for a future second- round pick. Thomas spent two seasons in Phoenix and averaged 6.4 points and 5.7 rebounds per contest in 120 regular season games during his tenure with the Suns. The deal was done to help give the team some salary cap relief.

BACKCOURT

Nash, who was second on the team in scoring (18.6 ppg), is the catalyst of the Phoenix attack. He will continue to make all of his teammates better because of his remarkable play-making ability. The Santa Clara product is the best at his job.

The 6-5 Bell is a hard-nosed player who is not afraid to get his hands dirty. He is a solid outside shooter, and like the rest of his teammates has benefited from Nash's unbelievable playmaking ability and flashy passes. Bell registered 14.7 points, 3.2 boards and 2.5 helpers in 78 contests last season.

Barbosa would start for most teams in the league. He can play both guard spots, gets the ball up the court as quick as any guard in the league, and is effective scoring or dishing the ball to his teammates. The lightning quick guard fits in perfectly with D'Antoni's offensive system.

The 33-year-old Nash, Barbosa and Bell make up a potent three-guard attack, and will eat up the majority of the minutes available in the backcourt. Marcus Banks, Eric Piatkowski, who can play shooting guard or small forward, and rookie D.J. Strawberry will try to earn playing time off the bench.

FRONTCOURT

D'Antoni knows what he is going to get from Marion and Stoudemire. The 6-7 Marion can shoot from the outside, can drive the lane and throw down a dunk and is a decent ball handler. The 24-year-old Stoudemire is a monster in the low post and is a difference maker when he is 100 percent healthy. Stoudemire is an intimidating presence in the middle.

Diaw did not have the type of season in 2006-07 that was expected of him, but he still managed to record 9.7 points, 4.3 rebounds and 4.8 assists in 73 games. The 6-8 forward is versatile, as he can also play guard if D'Antoni needs him to.

The Suns added another player who should work well in their system when they inked Hill, who has been plagued by various injuries throughout his career. Rookie Alando Tucker, who was selected out of Wisconsin with the 29th overall pick, will most likely see limited action this season, while veteran Brian Skinner, who signed with team as a free agent, will help on the boards and Piatkowski gives D'Antoni another shooter from the perimeter.

OUTLOOK

Is this finally the season for the Suns to win the NBA title? Nash is still playing the best basketball of his career, while Marion and Stoudemire are two of the most dangerous offensive players in the league. This team doesn't win with defense, the Suns are a scoring machine.

This is the year! Nash and company are good for 57-60 wins during the regular season. The Suns will capture their first Western Conference title since the 1992-93 season, as they would go on to lose in the NBA Finals to Michael Jordan and the Chicago Bulls in six games, 4-2. As for winning a world championship, it wouldn't be a surprise to see Phoenix' fans celebrating the franchise's first title with the players at a parade.

*****************************************************
UAE

Priest Lauderdale Signs with Al Nasr -by Ali Ahmed
Al Nasr basketball team management agreed terms with the American Center Priest Lauderdale (221-C-73, college: Central State) to play for them this season.

Priest is a very good shot blocker, solid in the post. Diffcut to stop him under the basket.

Priest played last year with Itthad in Saudi

William Pippen Joins Al Ahli -by Ali Ahmed
Al Ahli basketball team management agreed terms with the American forward William Pippen (203-F-80, college: Middle Tenn.St.) to play for them this season.

Pippen is a tremendous forward who is quick and athletic and a prolific scorer. He is a pure shooter. He is impossible to guard one on one. He has good ball handling skills and will penetrate and breakdown the defense,

Pippen played last year with Blue Star in Asia Championships.

*****************************************************
UKRAINE

Lviv, Kyiv, Mariupol and Sumy to Final Four! -by Alexander Muzyka
BC Kyiv has lost return game vs Budivelnyk but first game advantage by 43 points let 'wolves' to reach Final Four. After home crush BC Odesa decided to send its farm team to Mariupol and got 121-point fiasco in away game. Last year finalists Cherkasy Monkeys and Khimik are out of the one this year. Cherkasy almost could go through 30-points' bareer but...

Ukrainian Cup. Second stage
Quarterfinals. Return games
Oct. 23

BC Kyiv - Budivelnyk 74:86 (21:23, 19:31, 20:9, 14:23)
K: Drozdov 20, Jeter 15, Stack 14 + 7 rbs, Maravic 8 + 7 rbs, Faison 8, Krstic 6, Pustozvonov 2, Markoishvili 1, Kravtsov 0, Lukashov DNP, Podolian DNP, Lebedintsev DNP
B: M.Balashov 22, Ivshyn 16 + 5 rbs, Horbenko 10 + 10 rbs, Stefanishyn 10, Kovalenko 9 + 5 rbs + 3 stl, Briantsev 7, Orlenko 5 + 4 rbs, Yailo 3, Yevstratenko 0
Total 180:149

Cherkasy Monkeys - Politekhnika-Halychyna 97:70 (25:22, 25:23, 27:13, 20:12)
ChM: el Khatib 21 + 4 ast, Andriukaitis 18 + 9 rbs, Jarutis 15 + 6 ast, Lebedev 13, Cekovski 11 + 6 rbs, Rodgers 10 + 5 rbs, Revzin 5, Straight 4 + 4 ast, Podoliako DNP, O.Shevchenko DNP, Y.Lokhmanchuk DNP
PH: Zubrytskyi 18 + 5 rbs, Gurtovoi 13, Golubev 11 + 4 rbs, Kouzmine 8 + 4 rbs, Lemyk 8, Annenkov 7 + 4 ast, Ulianko 5, Koroviakov 0, Zhuzha 0, Zagainov 0, Bulajic 0, Shvets 0
Total 156:159

Azovmash - BC Odesa 154:33 (40:6, 44:13, 33:10, 37:4)
A: van de Hare 27 + 14 rbs, Harper 22 + 8 rbs + 4 stl, Delinikaitis 18 + 9 ast, Liadelis 17, Meshcharnakou 12 + 9 rbs + 5 ast, Reese 12 + 6 ast + 4 rbs, Loktionov 10 + 10 rbs + 6 ast + 4 bls, Skutelnik 10 + 4 rbs + 4 ast, Edney 8, Podorvannyi 6, Lischuk 6, Archibald 6
O: Politov 15 + 8 rbs + 8 tos, Sokil 8 + 4 rbs, Shutov 4 + 6 tos, Sheliuk 2 + 5 rbs, Anikienko 2, Pastushenko 2 + 4 rbs + 5 tos, Kozhemiakin 0, Patsiornykh 0 + 5 tos
Total 262:113

Khimik - Sumykhimprom 76:84 (35:36, 41:48)
Kh: Lepojevic 20, Djuric 14 + 8 rb + 5 ast, Korochkin 12, Kelly 9 + 4 rbs + 4 ast, Agafonov 8, Cakic 7, Kolchenko 6 + 4 rbs, Popov 0, Famutimi 0, Sabutskyi DNP, Zavadskyi DNP, Kalnichenko DNP
S: Kojenets 22 + 12 rbs, Tomic 21 + 8 rbs, R.Kryvych 19, Butskyi 12 + 4 rbs, I.Kryvych 5 + 5 rbs, Zozulia 3 + 4 rbs, Malysh 2, Malesevic 0, Shkurupi DNP, Zahrybelnyi DNP, Pelipeiko DNP, Yeriomin DNP
Total 149:166

*****************************************************
URUGUAY

Trouville and Defensor win for the LUB -by Hector Lopez
David Jackson (196-G-82, college: Penn St.) scored 25 points and Nathan Mielke (210-F-81, college: Wisc.-Milwaukee) netted 23 when Defensor Sporting beat Union Atletica 86-76 por the 12nd. of the Uruguayan League. The best scorers for Union were Mark Flavin (211-F/C-82, college: Maine) with 20 and Dainmon Gonner (198-F-80, college: SE Missouri St.) 15. In the other game played last night, Thurman Zimmerman (196-F/G-83, agency: Singer Sports, college: S.Carolina St.) scored two free shots in the last seconds and Trouville defeated Hebraica Macabi 77-76. Zimmerman netted 16 points (10/10 on free shots) and Delano Thomas (203-F-82, college: Shawnee St.) added 10. For Hebraica Grady Reynolds (198-F-80, agency: Strategic Sports, college: St.John's) netted 24 and Jeff Aubry (205-C-76, agency: Next Level, college: Cornell) 7 and 13 rebounds.



*****************************************************

Women News

*****************************************************
AUSTRALIA - Women

CSKA stun Canberra Capitals in Day2 of World League -by Eurobasket News
Canberra Capitals (Australia) - CSKA (Moscow) - 61:99 (14:32, 14:16, 17:21, 16:30)

CSKA Moscow is on the right way for the next World league trophy. Tonight the team beat Canberra Capitals from Australia 99:61. A 32:14 in the opening quarter showed the spectators who were the favorite. Nicole Powell (188-G/F-82, college: Stanford) led the winners with 15 points. Edwige Lawson (167-G-79) nailed 14, while Korstin and Ann Wauters (194-C-80) added 13 points each. Jessica Bibby (169-G-79) top-scored for the Australians with 15 points.

CSKA Moscow played another game, where you see only the offense from the team. Of course the defense works too, but the team does not need it for now. A 32:14 in the first quarter lifted the Russian squad in front of the game.
Canberra Capitals produced a good second quarter, but could not reduce the score. The team was trailing 20 points at the half and dreamed to stay on track. The task for CSKA in the fourth quarter was to reach 100 points again as it happened in their game over TEO. The team scored 99, however left the court happy.
Tomorrow CSKA will have a battle against USA and even with 2-0 record now might stay out of the semis if they lose with a huge difference. Canberra Capitals will have to smash TEO in order to take the last ticket.

Canberra Capitals: Jessica Bibby 15, Natalie Hurst (163-G-83) 11
CSKA: Nicole Powell 15, Edwige Lawson 14, Korstin 13, Ann Wauters 13

*****************************************************
BELARUS - Women

Leuchanka and Lavets are on top of their teams -by Eurobasket News
Tatsiana Lavets (172-G-82) top-scored for Brahe Basket in Sweden. In the second round she nailed 21 points in a 83:65 win over Sundsvall Saints. Three quarters of the game were enough for the hosts to win the first game at home.

Yelena Leuchanka (196-C-83, college: W.Virginia) participates together with TEO in the World league right now. In the third game of the first day CSKA overcame TEO 101:57. Yelena Leuchanka scored 6 points and made 9 rebounds. TEO tried hard, but probably could not come into the game. As there are two teams that advance to the semifinal, TEO still have chances to struggle for the second.

Today in the morning Lithuanian TEO beat USA Select team in the second day of World League. A 79:76 is the loudest sensation so far in the league. With a tie game after 30 minutes of the game Lithuanian team advantaged with 32:29. Yelena Leuchanka was unstoppable and collected 17 points and 18 rebounds. TEO surprised everybody winning the opening quarter 19:17. After a tremendous loss from CSKA in the opener, Ekaterinburg saw another TEO, that shone in the court. As a result the teams left the court at the halftime with 39:30 in favor of the Lithuanian team. The third period brought a somewhat more expected game as the favorites recovered their senses and fought back the 9 points by which they trailed the opponent. USA came back to the game making the score even before the last quarter. The final quarter began at 47:47 but just two minutes into the game TEO regained their lead, 59:47. Lithuania team held the score for good and brought the first sensation of the second day.

Sweden
Brahe Basket - Sundsvall Saints 83-65 (24-14 24-14 20-15 15-22)
Brahe Basket: Tatsiana Lavets 21, Hanna Johansson 15, Anna-Laura Rivero 11, Kristin Edstrom 11, Jenny Rylander 8, Malin Kallman 7, Hanna Sandberg 6, Teresia Troberg 3, Ida Ericsson 1
Sundsvall Saints: Lonniya Bragg 29, Vera Janjic 20, Madeleine Malmbom 10, Hanna Renkse 4, Caroline Bergsten 2

World League
CSKA Moscow (Russia) - TEO Vilnus (Lithuania) - 101:57 (27:12, 22:9, 22:16, 30:20)
CSKA: Ann Wauters 22, Amaya Valdemoro 17, Stepanova 16+10 rebs, Nicole Powell 16
TEO: Egle Sulciute 17, Kristin Haynie 13, Yelena Leuchanka 6+9 rebs

TEO-USA Select team 79:76 (19:17, 20:13, 8:17, 32:29)
TEO: Nykesha Sales 21, Yelena Yelena Leuchanka 17+18 rebs, Kristin Haynie 15
USA Select team: Diana Taurasi 16+8 rebs, Janel McCarville (188-C-82, college: Minnesota) 15+10 rebs

*****************************************************
BELGIUM - Women

Wauters started another outstanding season in Russia -by Eurobasket News
Belgian superstar Ann Wauters (194-C-80) top-scored in the first game for Russian CSKA in the opener of World League. CSKA Moscow started the World League with a comfortable win over TEO from Lithuania. In the third game of the first day CSKA overcame the opponents 101:57. Ann Wauters led the winners with 22 points in the opener. Last summer in the off-season CSKA moved from Samara to Moscow. Now the team represent the capital of the country and is the base for Russian squad. CSKA led 49:21, and the final score is absolutely incredible for the match between the two Euroleague teams. In the fourth quarter CSKA nailed 30 points that is a superb result for 10 minutes. The team proved once again that it is a favorite this year for the trophy as well.

In the second game Ann Wauters nailed 13 points. CSKA Moscow beat Canberra Capitals from Australia 99:61. A 32:14 in the opening quarter showed the spectators who were the favorite. Nicole Powell led the winners with 15 points. Tomorrow CSKA will have a battle against USA and even with 2-0 record now might stay out of the semis if they lose with a huge difference. Canberra Capitals will have to smash TEO in order to take the last ticket.

In Italy Evelien Callens (188-F-84, agency: LBM Management) scored her first points for La Spezia this season. Carispe La Spezia made a huge comeback as they trailed 46:62 after 30 minutes of the game to win 78:76. Chelsea Newton top-scored for the winners with 27 points. Benedetta Bagnara nailed 19, while Licia Corradini and Willis added 10.

Van Malderen Laurence opened the season for Parma with 6 points. Lavezzini Parma enjoyed the victory on a road against Pallacanestro Pozzuoli 72:62.

*****************************************************
CHINA - Women

CBA Beijing beat Hungarian Pecs 69:56 -by Eurobasket News
Mizo Pecs 2010 (Hungury) - CBA (China) 56:69 (12:18, 15:17, 11:16, 18:18)

CBA Beijing got the second straight win in World League that is in Russia. In Day 2 of the tournament the Asian team beat European representative, Pecs 69:56. Hungarian team did not look as good as in the opener and lost the battle. Bian Lan (182-G-86) paced the winners with 17 points. Miao Li Jie (180-G-81) nailed 14, while Zhang Xiaoni (195-C-83) added 13. Tijana Krivacevic (190-F-90) posted 12 points in the losing effort.
CBA Beijing will for sure to play in the semifinal of the World league. In a 'must win game" the team started offensively from the beginning. A 18:12 in the first quarter gave the Asians the control of the game. In order not to lose it the team produced 17:15 in the second to have 8 points advantage at the half.
In the third quarter the Asian team increased their lead. Perhaps it would have been different if Pecs had been more precise while playing on defense. Hungarian team had 25 fouls, while Chinese only 10.
Tomorrow CBA will meet Russian UMMC for the first place in the group. Pecs will try to get the first win in the game over Habana from Cuba.

Mizo Pecs: Tijana Krivacevic 12, Emilja Podrug (190-C-79) 10, Coelho 10
CBA: Bian Lan 17, Miao Li Jie 14, Zhang Xiaoni 13

*****************************************************
CROATIA - Women

Croatians abroad -by Eurobasket News
While the championship will start only in the next month Croatians abroad shine in the cours of another championships.

Suzy Batkovic (193-C-80) is having a great time in Ekaterinburg, where her UMMC hosts World League. In the first game of the tournament Suzy Batkovic nailed 4 points for Russian squad as UMMC beat took 71:67 win over Pecs from Hungary. A 23:15 in the last quarter brought the spectators the firth triumph. UMMC started the match on a 10:2 run during the first minutes. The hosts controlled the first quarter, but were satisfied with 25:20 after it. An 11:16 in the third put Pecs in front with 4 points deficit. UMMC however could not spoil the first game. The team made a 23:15 to take a 71:67 win in the first game.

Tonight Russian UMMC reached the second win in World League beating Habana from Cuba 95:74. It was a hard first half and UMMC even trailed in the game after it. A 34:8 in the third quarter improved the hosts to 2-0 and gave them the ticket to the semifinal of the tournament. Sandrine Gruda led the winners with 19 points. Croatian Suzy Batkovic produced 16, while Marina Kuzina added 13.

Croatian Emilja Podrug (190-C-79) and Jelena Ivezic (184-G-84) participate also in the tournament but for Hungarian Pecs. In Day 2 of the tournament the Asian team beat European representative, Pecs 69:56. Hungarian team did not look as good as in the opener and lost the battle. Anyway, Emilja Podrug scored 10 points for Pecs, while Jelena Ivezic nailed 5.

*****************************************************
CUBA - Women

UMMC spurted with 34:8 in the third to outscore Habana -by Eurobasket News
BC Habana (Cuba) - UMMC 74:95 (24:24, 21:19, 8:34, 18:18)

Russian UMMC reached the second win in World League beating Habana from Cuba 95:74. It was a hard first half and UMMC even trailed in the game after it. A 34:8 in the third quarter improved the hosts to 2-0 and gave them the ticket to the semifinal of the tournament. Sandrine Gruda (192-F/C-87) led the winners with 19 points. Suzy Batkovic (193-C-80) produced 16, while Marina Kuzina (195-C-85) added 13. Yakelin Plutin (186-F-79) was the best for the team from Latin America having 20 points.
For BC Habana it was the game to decide whether the team would qualify to the semifinal or not, or at least whether they would have chances. The visitors started offensively and stayed tough in the first half. After 24:24 in the first quarter, Habana stepped with 21:19 in the second to have 2 points deficit at the half.
The third quarter was a benefit for the Russia squad. They spurted with 34:8 making the final quarter the preparation for the next game. In the first three minutes of the third quarter the hosts were leading 54:47, and later jumped out to a commanding 77:53 advantage.
Tomorrow UMMC will play against Chinese CBA for the first place in the group. Habana will try to take the first win in the game with Pecs.

BC Habana: Yakelin Plutin 20, Oyanaisis Gelis (171-G-83) 14,
UMMC: Sandrine Gruda 19, Suzy Batkovic 16, Marina Kuzina 13

*****************************************************
CYPRUS - Women

Ready for the victory -by Andreas Klilis
The head of K.V IMPERIAL AEL, Kalia Papadopoulou, speaking to the "Super
sport FM", declared that "The victory on the Ntoynav for sure it was a
historical victory, however the one point difference it is not enough. I
consider the bulgarian team a very good team but if we manage to avoid the
20 errors of the first match, we will have the possibilities to win. We know
that the stadium has a capacity of 1000 seats, so if we have our fans
support (almost 100), our effort will definitely be build up!”.

In a question if this year's championship will be a race for one horse,
Kalia Papadopoulou answered: "No, definitely no. Keraunos is presented
strengthened so as Apoel, but also Achilles with the additions of 2
foreigner players has the possibility to make enough damage to a lot of
teams. AEL is not the only good team in this year's championship. Maybe we
have achieved better additions of players, nevertheless the other teams will
be competitive enough” Kalia Papadopoulou (166-G-80)

*****************************************************
FRANCE - Women

LFB: All roads lead to Paris this weekend - LFB 2007 - 2008 Preview -by Leslie Anderson

In five days time the LFB tips- off. As in the previous two seasons, all roads lead to Paris for round one with all 14 teams playing round the clock in one venue. All the French basketball media will be in place for this event. This year for the fans that are not able to make it to Paris, they will have the opportunity to watch the games live on the Internet, as the French Federation (FFBB) will be streaming the games live on.


As mentioned earlier in the summer the updates of the LFB Roster have not updated in daily bulletins but we have been working behind the scenes with Marek Wojtera to update the rosters as quickly as possible.


Talking about roster updates it was announced today that Nathalie Lesdema signed with Pays d'Aix Basket 13 Provence for one month as medical cover Anda Jekabsone .


LFB Preview and Format Changes

The format of the championship has changed this year

Only the top 4 teams at the end of the regular season will contest the play-off for the title of French Champions. The next 8 teams will play-off for direct qualification in the EuroCup and the 13th and 14th place team will be relegated to NF1.

You will find a 2 part LFB review for season 2007-2008: Part 1 and Part 2




*****************************************************
IRELAND - Women

Aughinish beats Mercy in overtime -by Eurobasket News
The Irish Superleague enjoyed a dramatic fixture in the fifth round. Aughinish took on Mercy at home. Mercy entered the game with a perfect record and hoped to extend the winning streak. However Aughinish challallenged the league leaders and managed to succeed. Mercy held on to a tiny lead after the first half 31:30. But the hosts surged ahead in the third stanza and kept pressure on the visitors throughout the final quarter. But Mary Fox (180-G-83) ensured some important points late in regualtion and forced overtime drawing teams at 53. The thriller continued in extra time as neither team could clear off for a safe distance and everything was decided in the dying seconds. Chassidy Jones (178-G-85) and Carmel Kissane (183-C-73) delivered necessary points and lifted the hosts to a narrow victory.
Chassidy Jones led the home team with 14 points. Carmel Kissane contributed 11 points in a win. Mary Fox responded with 17 points for Mercy. Ann-Marie Healy (191-C-83, college: Jacksonville St.) netted 15 points in a losing effort. Aughinish now improved to 4-1 record in the ladder, while Mercy fell to 3-1 and the third spot.
Hotel Cork was on the brink of losing 0 from the loss column but they survived a late threat from Meteors and secured a 59:58 victory. Jennifer Strong (183-F-84) chipped in 23 points to lead Hotel Cork. Leah Truncale (180-G-80, college: Binghamton) answered with 24 points for Meteors.

Aughinish - Mercy 59:57 (OT)
Aughinish: Chassidy Jones 14, Carmel Kissane 11
Mercy: Mary Fox 17, Ann-Marie Healy 15

Meteors - Hotel Cork 58:59
Meteors: Leah Truncale 24
Cork: Jennifer Strong 23

*****************************************************
LITHUANIA - Women

TEO creates a sensation beating USA 79:76 -by Eurobasket News

TEO-USA Select team 79:76 (19:17, 20:13, 8:17, 32:29)

Lithuanian TEO beat USA Select team in the second day of World League. A 79:76 is the loudest sensation so far in the league. With a tie game after 30 minutes of the game Lithuanian team advantaged with 32:29. Nykesha Sales (183-F/G-76, college: Connecticut) led the winners with 21 points. Yelena Leuchanka (196-C-83, college: W.Virginia) collected 17 points and 18 rebounds, while Kristin Haynie (173-G-83, college: Michigan St.) produced 15. Diana Taurasi (180-G-82, college: Connecticut) top-scored for the Select team with 16 points and 8 rebounds.


TEO surprised everybody winning the opening quarter 19:17. After a tremendous loss from CSKA in the opener, Ekaterinburg saw another TEO, that shone in the court. As a result the teams left the court at the halftime with 39:30 in favor of the Lithuanian team.
The third period brought a somewhat more expected game as the favorites recovered their senses and fought back the 9 points by which they trailed the opponent. USA came back to the game making the score even before the last quarter. The final quarter began at 47:47 but just two minutes into the game TEO regained their lead, 59:47. Lithuania team held the score for good and brought the first sensation of the second day.


Tomorrow USA will try to recover against CSKA and will need only a win in order to advance for the semis. TEO will play against Canberra Capitals and has better chances to advance.

TEO: Nykesha Sales 21, Yelena Leuchanka 17+18 rebs, Kristin Haynie 15
USA Select team: Diana Taurasi 16+8 rebs, Janel McCarville (188-C-82, college: Minnesota) 15+10 rebs



*****************************************************
LUXEMBOURG - Women

Amicale and Musel Pikes record victories -by Eurobasket News
Musel Pikes grabbed their first win in the season as they beat Residence Walferdange at home in the second round of action. The hosts opened the game pretty confidently and led 24:16 at the end of the first frame. The gap kept on growing after the first intermission and Musel Pikes enjoyed a 38:23 advantage at halftime. Residence tried to save the day in the third term and changed the complexion of the game. The teams raised the tempo and the fans acquired some aggressive good-looking basketball. But still the hosts looked a bit better and ensured the lead. Residence were only able to outscore the home team in the final period but it never helped them to succeed.
Carine Cigrang (175-F-85) led the hosts with 20 points. Rachel Wojdowski (179-G/F-82) added 17 points and 6 boards for the winners. Catherine Scanlon (180-G/F-83, college: Drexel) replied with 26 points and 18 boards for Residence.
Amicale meanwhile secured a safe 79:60 victory over Etzella at home and improved to 2-1 record in the DBBL ladder.
Contern suffered their second loss in a row as they were rallied over by Basket Esch 60:70 at home. The teams kept it close throughout the first three quarters before the visitors spurred ahead in the dying minutes and emerged victorious from the clash. Krisztina Bernath (189-C-78) paced the winners with 23 points and 11 boards. Shenika Worthy (178-G/F-80, agency: LBM Management, college: USC) delivered 19 points for Basket Esch. Ali Mann (186-F-85, college: Bowling Green) had 19 points and 6 boards for the home side. Basket Esch had an obvious advantage under the rims and outrebounded Contern 40:26.

Musel Pikes - Residence 71:55
Musel Pikes: Carine Cigrang 20, Rachel Wojdowski 17+6 boards
Residence: Catherine Scanlon 26+18 boards, Elisabeth Fritz (181-F-89) 8

Contern - Basket Esch 60:70
Contern: Ali Mann 19+6 boards, Anne Ludivig (176-F-82) 13
Basket Esch: Krisztina Bernath 23+11 boards, Shenika Worthy 19

Amicale - Etzella 79:60

*****************************************************
NCAA - Women

TEO creates a sensation beating USA 79:76 -by Eurobasket News

TEO-USA Select team 79:76 (19:17, 20:13, 8:17, 32:29)

Lithuanian TEO beat USA Select team in the second day of World League. A 79:76 is the loudest sensation so far in the league. With a tie game after 30 minutes of the game Lithuanian team advantaged with 32:29. Nykesha Sales (183-F/G-76, college: Connecticut) led the winners with 21 points. Yelena Leuchanka (196-C-83, college: W.Virginia) collected 17 points and 18 rebounds, while Kristin Haynie (173-G-83, college: Michigan St.) produced 15. Diana Taurasi (180-G-82, college: Connecticut) top-scored for the Select team with 16 points and 8 rebounds.


TEO surprised everybody winning the opening quarter 19:17. After a tremendous loss from CSKA in the opener, Ekaterinburg saw another TEO, that shone in the court. As a result the teams left the court at the halftime with 39:30 in favor of the Lithuanian team.
The third period brought a somewhat more expected game as the favorites recovered their senses and fought back the 9 points by which they trailed the opponent. USA came back to the game making the score even before the last quarter. The final quarter began at 47:47 but just two minutes into the game TEO regained their lead, 59:47. Lithuania team held the score for good and brought the first sensation of the second day.


Tomorrow USA will try to recover against CSKA and will need only a win in order to advance for the semis. TEO will play against Canberra Capitals and has better chances to advance.

TEO: Nykesha Sales 21, Yelena Leuchanka 17+18 rebs, Kristin Haynie 15
USA Select team: Diana Taurasi 16+8 rebs, Janel McCarville (188-C-82, college: Minnesota) 15+10 rebs



*****************************************************
PUERTO RICO - Women

BSF 2007....now the Post-Season!! -by Alessandro Fontana

Morovis is classified as First in the BSF 2007. They won against Valencianas Juncos 72-69. The MVP was Amy Denson (186-F, college: Arizona St.) with 30pts and 10 rebounds, to mention also the game of Lindsay Gonzalez (160-G-82) with 11pts, 3rebs and 2assts.

Morovis is one of the 6 qualified teams for the "Post-Season". The other teams are: Juncos, Ponce, Carolina, Guaynabo and Caguas. Las capitanas de Arecibo ended the BSF 2007 with an "incredible" standing 0-21.
On Tuesday the Post season will begin with the game Guaynabo-Caguas, the winner will play against Carolina the Semifinals. The other Semifinal is Juncos against Ponce. Juncos-Ponce is the "partidazo" of this week.

The result of last week:
Guaynabo-Morovis 66-91 (M= Villegas 22, Williams 16; M= Colon 26, Denson 24, Gonzalez 16)
Ponce- Arecibo= 85-78 (P= Batiz 21, Moura 12, Colon 12; A= Quiles 25, Drinks 19+19rebs)
Arecibo-Caguas= 76-77 (A= Drinks 24, Berrezueta 18, C= Rodriguez 28, Santiago 15, De Jesus 9)
Guaynabo-Juncos= 54-81 (G= Williams 21, Villegas 14; J= Yo. Cabrera 21, Ya. Cabrera 12, Gay 11)
Juncos-Carolina= 85-53 (J= Yo. Cabrera 19, Ya. Cabrera 13, Gay 10; C= Anderson 13, Clinesmith 9)
Ponce-Morovis 64-68 (P= Colon 21, Santos 20; M= Denson 25+13rebs, Gonzalez 18, Willis 10)
Guaynabo-Caguas= 81-77 (G= Williams 24, Rivera 17, Villegas 12; C= Rodriguez 23, McCollin 17)
Morovis-Juncos= 72-69 (M= Denson 30, Willis 17, Gonzalez 11; J= Yo. Cabrera 29, Ya. Cabrera 16, Gay 11)
Carolina-Ponce= 61-62 (C= Anderson 17, De la Cruz 12; P= Santos 16, Colon 12, Gonzalez 12)
Guaynabo-Arecibo= 86-84 (G= Williams 26, Rivera 20, Villegas 14; A= Berrezueta 23, Quiles 22)
A. Fontana



*****************************************************
RUSSIA - Women

CSKA stun Canberra Capitals in Day2 of World League -by Eurobasket News
Canberra Capitals (Australia) - CSKA (Moscow) - 61:99 (14:32, 14:16, 17:21, 16:30)

CSKA Moscow is on the right way for the next World league trophy. Tonight the team beat Canberra Capitals from Australia 99:61. A 32:14 in the opening quarter showed the spectators who were the favorite. Nicole Powell (188-G/F-82, college: Stanford) led the winners with 15 points. Edwige Lawson (167-G-79) nailed 14, while Korstin and Ann Wauters (194-C-80) added 13 points each. Jessica Bibby (169-G-79) top-scored for the Australians with 15 points.

CSKA Moscow played another game, where you see only the offense from the team. Of course the defense works too, but the team does not need it for now. A 32:14 in the first quarter lifted the Russian squad in front of the game.
Canberra Capitals produced a good second quarter, but could not reduce the score. The team was trailing 20 points at the half and dreamed to stay on track. The task for CSKA in the fourth quarter was to reach 100 points again as it happened in their game over TEO. The team scored 99, however left the court happy.
Tomorrow CSKA will have a battle against USA and even with 2-0 record now might stay out of the semis if they lose with a huge difference. Canberra Capitals will have to smash TEO in order to take the last ticket.

Canberra Capitals: Jessica Bibby 15, Natalie Hurst (163-G-83) 11
CSKA: Nicole Powell 15, Edwige Lawson 14, Korstin 13, Ann Wauters 13

UMMC spurted with 34:8 in the third to outscore Habana -by Eurobasket News
BC Habana (Cuba) - UMMC 74:95 (24:24, 21:19, 8:34, 18:18)

Russian UMMC reached the second win in World League beating Habana from Cuba 95:74. It was a hard first half and UMMC even trailed in the game after it. A 34:8 in the third quarter improved the hosts to 2-0 and gave them the ticket to the semifinal of the tournament. Sandrine Gruda (192-F/C-87) led the winners with 19 points. Suzy Batkovic (193-C-80) produced 16, while Marina Kuzina (195-C-85) added 13. Yakelin Plutin (186-F-79) was the best for the team from Latin America having 20 points.
For BC Habana it was the game to decide whether the team would qualify to the semifinal or not, or at least whether they would have chances. The visitors started offensively and stayed tough in the first half. After 24:24 in the first quarter, Habana stepped with 21:19 in the second to have 2 points deficit at the half.
The third quarter was a benefit for the Russia squad. They spurted with 34:8 making the final quarter the preparation for the next game. In the first three minutes of the third quarter the hosts were leading 54:47, and later jumped out to a commanding 77:53 advantage.
Tomorrow UMMC will play against Chinese CBA for the first place in the group. Habana will try to take the first win in the game with Pecs.

BC Habana: Yakelin Plutin 20, Oyanaisis Gelis (171-G-83) 14,
UMMC: Sandrine Gruda 19, Suzy Batkovic 16, Marina Kuzina 13