Eurobasket Daily News Report:

EUROBASKET NEWS REPORT - 12/8/2007

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Men News

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ABA

2007-08 Atlanta Vision Roster -by Surujh Roopnarine
2007-08 Vision Roster
5 Sean Dixon (6'2''-G) PG
9 Bless Spencer PG
11 Kenneth McKenzie PG
13 Frank Pinson (5'11''-G) PG
4 Kevin Harrington (6'4''-G/F) SG
1 Jordan Adams SG
48 Kelvin Davis SG
7 Rich Francis (6'4''-G/F) SG
18 Marcus Dixon SG
27 B.J. Puckett (6'9''-F-83, college: Clayton St.) PF
2 Shaun Bass SF
3 Donielle Davis (6'4''-F, college: Anderson) SF
10 Marcus Sims SF
17 Darnell Richardson SF
50 Robert "50" Martin SF
6 Greg Hall C
8 Bryan Irvin C
12 Richard Walker C
26 Michael Konanec (6'9''-F/C-82, college: Widener) C

Millrats erase 27 point deficit to beat Vermont -by Carl Berman
Barre, Vermont - December 6, 2007 - The Manchester Millrats erased a 27 point first quarter deficit to beat the defending ABA Champion Vermont Frost Heaves 115-109 in Barre, Vermont. The game was touted as a "Clash of the Titans", featuring #1 ranked Manchester at #2 ranked Vermont, and was broadcast live on the internet via PlayOn! Sports webcast.

The first quarter got out of hand quickly for the visitors as a 16-11 Frost Heaves lead suddenly exploded into a 38-11 deficit for the Millrats. The 22-0 Vermont run was built on the strength of Terrence Green's 17 points in the quarter, and controversy with the officiating. The Millrats Head Coach Larry Lessett was ejected during the first quarter. With Manchester's Head Coach gone, and two of Manchester's star players, Ismael Caro and Rob Sanders frustrated and saddled with first quarter fouls and technicals, the Millrats could've easily packed in and gone home. With Assistant Coach Heath Teixeira and the General Manager Ian McCarthy assuming the coaching duties for Manchester, the team completely reversed the tide. Using full court pressure, the Millrats generated a 32-13 second quarter run that enabled the visitors to get back into the game, down just at 52-46 haltime.

In the third quarter the host held the visitors at bay, extending the six point halftime lead to eight. However, the more Manchester kept the game close, the more confidence they gained that they could pull out the win. In the fourth quarter the Frost Heaves once again extended to a thirteen point lead. But the Millrats potent offense put up forty points in the fourth quarter behind the hot shooting of Anthony Anderson (5'11''-G-81, college: Massachusetts) and John Huggins. Guard Charles Easterling provided a key spark off the bench and help break the Heaves pressing defense.

The Millrats led 101-99 with about 2:00 remaining when Terrence Green nailed a three pointer to give the Heaves the lead back, at 102-101. However, Millrats forward David Cooper grabbed a key offensive rebound and put back which gave the lead right back to Manchester, at 103-101. Each time Manchester started to pull ahead, Vermont countered with another huge basket. In the end, the Millrats made several key plays down the stretch, on offense and defense, which enabled them to squeak out a memorable road victory. Charles Easterling connected on 3 straight free throws to ice the game.

"The game changed when our players settled down and began to play hard defense," stated Millrats Assistant Coach Heath Teixeira, "once we do that our offense comes easier and we're hard to beat." Manchester was led by former UMass Minuteman, Anthony Anderson with 29 points, 6 rebounds, 6 assists, and 4 steals. Off the bench, Charles Easterling contributed 19 points and 6 rebounds, and John Huggins added 16 points, including several key trifectas down the stretch. Terrence Green scored 33 points for Vermont.

Manchester, the #1 ranked team in the ABA, improves to 9-1 on the season, while Vermont suffers the first ever losing streak in its history, and fall to 6-2. Both of Vermont's losses are to the Manchester Millrats, with Millrats drawing first blood last Sunday 110-108 in overtime in New Hampshire. The Manchester Millrats also host doubleheader ABA action this weekend at the Fieldhouse on the campus of Southern New Hampshire University (SNHU), as the Boston Blizzard visit on Saturday at 7:05 pm. ON SUNDAY, former SNHU star guard Bobby Miller and the Montreal Royal will make their second visit to Manchester at 4:35 pm. Tickets are available at the door, online at www.manchestermillrats.com, or by calling 866-9-GET TIX. Doors open one hour prior to tip time and all tickets are under $10.

Texas Tycoons Jai Pradia selected to participate in FIBA Americas "Americas League" -by Jean-Paul Afif

December 04, 2007

Desoto, TX - Texas Tycoons Jai Pradia (6'6''-F-79, college: Pittsburg St.) has been selected to play for the USA in the FIBA Americas first edition of the “Americas League” to take place in Guaynabo, Puerto Rico. In a press conference held in Buenos Aires, Argentina. Julio Subero, President of the FIBA Americas League announced that the best teams from Argentina, Brazil, Chile, and Uruguay as well as professional minor league teams from the USA will participate. With this being the first edition of the FIBA Americas League the PBL has put together a team for the USA consisting of the best players from a number of different US minor leagues, including the ABA. Jai Pradia an explosive, high octane forward, from the ABA Texas Tycoons has been selected to participate for the USA.

Texas Tycoons Owner Charles Key was quoted as saying “We always love to see players who have developed with our team and organization move on to play at a higher level, and further their career. The Texas Tycoons are committed to helping our young players gain exposure, and opportunities to play at the next level. We are really proud of Jai, and the opportunity he has to represent the ABA and the Texas Tycoons as well as the USA on an international platform.”

The FIBA Americas League is one of the first opportunities for US minor league players to compete for the USA against other countries in a truly international league. The Texas Tycoons 4-1 this season are considered to be one of the best minor league franchises in the US. Jai Pradia will represent the team on behalf of the USA in international play; Pradia helped lead the Texas Tycoons to the ABA championship game last season, and a record of 25-5.

By: Jean-Paul S. Afif

Last Night in the ABA -by Surujh Roopnarine

Manchester Millrats (115) at Vermont Frost Heaves (109)
MILLRATS: Anthony Anderson (29p+6rb+6as), Charles Easterling (19p+6rb+5as), John Huggins (16p), Souleymane Wane (12p+10rb)
FOST HEAVES: Terrance Greene (33p+5rb+8st), B.J. Robertson (19p), Issa Konare (16p+5rb), John Bryant (8p+12rb)

San Francisco Rumble (114) at Long Beach Breakers (121)
RUMBLE: Johnny Wheeler (27p), David Pushia (23p), Tyrone Purnell (21p)
BREAKERS: JuShay Rockett (21p), Lamar Harris (20p), Dion Cook (18p)
Atlanta Vision (120) at Georgia Gwizzlies (101)

VISION: Frank Pinson (30p+5rb+8as), Donielle Davis (22p+9rb), Sean Dixon (20p), Richard Francis (17p)

Gwizzlies Shake up Roster -by Surujh Roopnarine
The Georgia Gwizzlies, coming off of a 120-101 loss to the Atlanta Vision have announced that they have released Mike Toth (6'3''-G-84, college: Delaware St.) and Jason Warren (6'8''-F-83, college: Missouri Western) and assigned Chad Thomas (6'5''-G) to starting point guard. The Gwizzlies next game will be against 2006-07 ABA Finalists the Texas Tycoons.

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ADRIATIC LEAGUE

Siroki lose again! -by Emil Suceska
13.week adriatic league

HKK Siroki Prima Pivo - KK Zagreb Croatia Osiguranje 74:85

Arena: Pecara; Siroki Brijeg. Attendance: 1000. Referees: Dragan Neskovic (Serbia), Sasa Maricic (Serbia) and Caslav Cukalovic (Serbia). Results: HKK Siroki Prima Pivo - KK Zagreb Croatia Osiguranje 74:85 (22:21; 21:22, 19:20; 12:22)
SIROKI: Bubalo, Lever 8, Stemperger 13, Perincic, Tomas 9, Zupic 2, Sola, Spralja 22, Susak, Fajardo 20.
ZAGREB: Tomic 10, Vladovic 16, Babic 5, Simo 17, Papac, Dundovic 19, Kovacevic, Garma 2, Vrasaljko, Basljan, Zadravec 4, Ruzic 12.

Man of the match is Sime Spralja (206-F/C-83) with 22 pts., 6 reb., 2 ass

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ARGENTINA

TNA news -by Facundo Iatzky
Asociacion Italiana re-signed Derrick Miller (202-C/F-78, college: Georgetown, KY) who recovered of his injury and released Joe Kennerly
Pedro Echague signed Alejandro Camargo (199-F-80, agency: Players Group) and released Martin Aguirrezabala who had been signed temporally.
Argentino Junin signed Federico Marin (199-G/F-82) He will replace Emanuel Ochoa.
Ciclista juninene released Leandro Ferraro

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BOSNIA

Derby game for Bosnia -by Elvir Halilovic
Bosna ASA BHT - Sloboda Dita 79:73
(20:19, 18:20, 15:15, 26:19)
Sarajevo, KSC Skenderija; Att.: 1.000; Ref.: Adamovic, Krizanac, Kajan
BOSNA ASA BHT: Greer 4, Sehovic 6, Ikonic, Bavcic 15, Klinac, Bailey 10, Suljagic, Camdzic, Rahimic 12, Pasalic 10, Veal 10, Williams 12
SLOBODA DITA: Duric, Halilovic, Milosevic M. 4, Halilbegovic, Albijanic 4, Jeftic, Persic 9, Tanasilovic 9, Matic 8, Milosevic N. 8, Jocovic 4, Ross 27

Siroki lose again! -by Emil Suceska
13.week adriatic league

HKK Siroki Prima Pivo - KK Zagreb Croatia Osiguranje 74:85

Arena: Pecara; Siroki Brijeg. Attendance: 1000. Referees: Dragan Neskovic (Serbia), Sasa Maricic (Serbia) and Caslav Cukalovic (Serbia). Results: HKK Siroki Prima Pivo - KK Zagreb Croatia Osiguranje 74:85 (22:21; 21:22, 19:20; 12:22)
SIROKI: Bubalo, Lever 8, Stemperger 13, Perincic, Tomas 9, Zupic 2, Sola, Spralja 22, Susak, Fajardo 20.
ZAGREB: Tomic 10, Vladovic 16, Babic 5, Simo 17, Papac, Dundovic 19, Kovacevic, Garma 2, Vrasaljko, Basljan, Zadravec 4, Ruzic 12.

Man of the match is Sime Spralja (206-F/C-83) with 22 pts., 6 reb., 2 ass

D1, 9th Round -by Sead Buljina

Igokea has won a game in Bileca as expected by a large margin of victory. Hercegovac had no chance and game was decided early in the first half. Both hosts and gueasts played without a couple of key players, but that did not change things much. The best player was again Timotic with 17 points.

Final score, Hercegovac - Igokea 77:108.

In the other game that was played earlier, Bosna won against Sloboda in a down to the wire game. Guests from Tuzla held their own for the whole game. They led at the halftime, at the end of the 3rd quarter and had a 6-point lead in the last quarter. The largest lead of 7 points Bosna had a minut and a half to go. However, Ronnie Ross (27 points) drained a couple trays from downtown to bring Sloboda within 4 points in the last minute. Guests had their chance but missed a shot 21 seconds before the final buzzer. On the other end Lance Williams scored deciding basket and this thrilling game was over. Final score, Bosna ASA BHT - Sloboda Dita 79:73 (38:39).

Tonight`s game was the first game for a new Bosna`s American player, Jeremy Veal (191-G-76) who replaced Kyle Hill immediately after game in Berlin on Tuesday. Veal played very well after only one practice with his new team. Jeremy Veal showed Bosna fans that he is not afraid to take responsibility in the crunch time, made couple of key shots and free throws.

On the other hand, it`s strange to see Bosna keeping an expensive American, Quemont Greer (201-F-81) only to sit on the bench. Tonight he played only 6:30 minutes. Not to make mistake, Quemont Greer is a very good player. However, in four months, he has not adapted to the European style of play.

For tonight`s game, Sloboda Dita deserves all credit. They had a chance to win against much stronger team on the paper. Sloboda came to Sarajevo to fight and they gave hosts all they could handle.

9th Round continues tomorrow. Remaining games schedule:

Zenica Celik - Capljina (19:00)

Vogosca - Zrinjski (17:30)

Leotar - Borac (19:00)

Posusje - Grude (19:00)

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CBA

Oklahoma suffers first defeat in the season -by Eurobasket News
Great Falls Explorers snapped Oklahoma Cavalry 6-game winning streak and beat them 107:103 at home. In this extra close encounter the result was shaped up in the second term. The Explorers won it 27:21 and this margin helped them to celebrate just the second win at the tournament. The Cavalry cut the gap in the third stanza but seemed a bit weary and never managed to strike late in the game. Six Great Falls players scored in double figures en route to a narrow victory. Keith Salscheider (6'5''-G/F-82, agency: Sports Plus International, college: San Diego Chr.) came up with 23 points for the Explorers. Nate Johnson (6'4''-G-81, college: Florida St.) delivered 18 points, 8 assists and 6 boards for the winners. Daryan Selvy (6'6''-F/G-79, college: Oklahoma) responded with 24 points and 7 boards for Oklahoma. Curtis Haywood (6'6''-G-75, college: Oklahoma City) had 20 points and 7 boards in a losing clause. The hosts were more accurate from the field converting 50%. They also pulled down 40 boards and forced their opponents to 21 turnovers.
Oklahoma however recovered pretty quickly as they dispatched Great Falls in the second game of back-to-back series. The Cavalry this time saved enough energy to step up in the fourth period and cleared off for good winning 114:104. This time Oklahoma dominated the boards outrebounding the hosts 37:27 and improved field goal accuracy sinking 56%. Curtis Haywood topscored for Oklahoma with 27 points and 8 boards. Daryan Selvy contributed 18 points and 8 assists. Cody Toppert (6'4''-G/F-83, agency: Interperformances, college: Cornell) paced the home team with 23 points. Nate Green (6'6''-F-75, college: Dayton) had 22 points, while Tyler Hughes (6'11''-F-84, college: Kansas St.) finished with 20 points in the 8th loss for the Explorers.
Meanwhile Minot Skyrockets remained on top of American conference with 6-1 record. They overcame Pittsburgh Xplosion 97:92. Pittsburgh entered the game aggressively and led by 13 points after the starting frame. But the Skyrockets quickly rebounded and gradually took over the initiative. An all-around performance from John Strickland (6'8''-F/C-72, college: Hawaii-Pacific) allowed the visitors to dominate merely every aspect of the game in the second half and they proved their status claiming an important and tough victory. John Strickland came up with game-high 25 points, 6 boards and 6 assists for Minot. Ronnie Fields (6'4''-G-77, agency: Edge Sports) finished with 23 points for the winners. Albert White (6'6''-G/F-77, college: Missouri) responded with 20 points, 10 boards and 8 assists for the Xplosion. Antonio Graves (6'3''-G-85, college: Pittsburgh) tallied 21 points in the 6th loss for Pittsburgh.

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CHINA

Li Nan Returns for Bayi, Xinjiang and Guangdong Keep Winning -by Arthur Volbert
Li Nan returned from injury to score 18 points in 18 minutes and lead Bayi to a 111-93 victory over Shanxi Zhongyu. Six Bayi players scored in double figures. Major Wingate led Zhongyu with 28 points and 11 rebounds.

Dejuan Tate scored 35 points and grabbed 8 rebounds to lead Jilin to a 101-81 win over Shaanxi. Du Jiang added 18 points and Wang Bo scored 17. Hiram Fuller scored 21 points, Tian Yu scored 17, and Brandon Robinson had 17 points and 16 rebounds for Shaanxi.

J. T. Prada, coach of Fujian, tells me that Chris Porter has returned to the United States for ankle surgery and this is why he is absent from the team. With Porter out, Gong Songlin (196-G/F-81) scored 37 points and Yang Chao added 33 to give Fujian a 134-124 triumph over Dongguan. Liu Yudong added 27 points and Jameel Watkins had 21 points and 11 rebounds. Anthony Myles had 34 points, Yu Ning had 23 and Mike Harris scored 20 for Dongguan.

Xinjiang rallied to outscore Liaoning 30-22 in the fourth quarter and preserve its share of the CBA lead with a 98-94 victory. Recent import Aaron McGhee led Xinjiang with 35 points and 9 rebounds. With McGhee's arrival, Xue Yuyang's playing time has been cut and he was scoreless in 6 minutes. Xu Guozhong had 18 points and Mengke Bateer had 16 points and 14 rebounds. Liu Xiangtao led Liaoning with 21 points and Earnest Brown had 19.

Ryan Forehan-Kelly had 28 points and Hu Xuefeng had 27 as Jiangsu defeated Zhejiang Guangsha 110-97. Tang Zhengdong had 19 points and 11 rebounds. Rodney White led Guangsha with 43 points.

Liu Wei and Jerod Ward each scored 20 points and Wu Yang scored 18 as Shanghai defeated Beijing 95-84. Wu is a 206 cm forward, class of '88, and is another of Shanghai's very promising youngsters. Xu Yong, Shanghai's best young player, had 13 points, 9 rebounds and 7 assists. Olumide Oyedeji led Beijing with 24 points and 20 rebounds.

Herve Lamizana had 23 points and 11 rebounds to lead Shaanxi to a 108-84 triumph over Zhejiang. God Shammgod led Zhejinag with 21 points. Ding Jinhui yhad 14 points and 9 rebounds but only hit 1 of 11 three-pointers.

Lamond Murray had 28 points and Wang Shipeng and Zhu Fangyu each scored 26 as Guangdong kept its share of the CBA lead with a 137-118 win over Yunnan. Dontae Jones led Yunnan with 24 points, Liu Hao scored 21 and Wang Nan, Nigel Dixon and Chen Zhaosheng each scored 19.

Bayi 111
Mo Ke 17p+9r+3a+2s, Chen Ke 11p+5r+1a+3s, Wang Zhongguang 7p+4r+2a, Chen Chen 7p+2r+1a+1s, Wang Zhizhi 15p+6r+5a, Li Nan 18p+2r+1a+4s+1bl, Li Ke 14p+7r+1a+1s, Yao Kaifu 15p+3r+2a+2s
Shanxi Zhongyu 93
Wang Sizhang 10p+3r+2a, Sun Chunlei 5p+3r+1a, Yu Xuelin 10p+4r+2a+1s, Major Wingate 28p+11r+3a+1s+2bl, Yu Tao 21p+10r+2a, Zhai Jinshuai 8p+5r+1a, Pan Jiang 6p+4r+3s,

Jilin 101
Liu Wei2 6p+10r+1a+3s, Wang Bo 17p+9r+4a+2s+1bl+6to, Lu Yan 8p+1r+1a+1s, Nie Jinqiang 8p+5r+3a+4s, Dejuan Tate 35p+8r+2a+3s+1bl, Cheng Zhiming 5p+2r+3a+1s, Du Jiang 18p+1r+2a+1s+1bl, Babacar Camara 8p+9r+5a+2s, Zhao Anan 6p+2s
Shaanxi 81
Tian Yu 18p+3r, Liu Jiulong 13p+4r+2a+2s+5to, Dai Yong 10p+3r, Zhang Wei 0p+4r+2a+3s, Hiram Fuller 21p+5r+1a+3s+3bl, Brandon Robinson 17p+16r+4a+2s+5bl+8to, Hu Guang 11p+1a+1s

Fujian 134
Gong Songlin 37p+4r+5a+1s, Lu Xiaoming 10p+1r+6a+5s, Yang Chao 33p+4r+2a+4s, Jameel Watkins 21p+11r+1s+3bl, Liu Yudong 27p+4r+3a+1s
Dongguan 124
Zhang Kai 17p+15r+1a+2bl, Qiu Biao 14p+4r+3a, Anthony Myles 34p+7r+2a+2s+1bl, Yu Ning 23p+1r+3a+1s, Wang Yong1 8p+4r+1a+1s, Mike Harris 20p+11r

Xinjiang 98
Xu Guozhong 18p+6r+2a+2s, Mengke Bateer 16p+14r+4a+1s, Song Cun 9p+3r, David Jackson 4p+3r+1a+2s, Mulati Adilijiang 11p+3r+2a+3s, Aaron McGhee 35p+9r+3a+2s
Liaoning 94
Bian Qiang 8p+2r+3a+1s, Liu Xiangtao 21p+3r, Zhang Qingpeng 9p+8r+4a+3to, Li Xiaoxu 17p+3r+1a+1s+1bl, Earnest Brown 19p+2r+2a+1s, Patrick Simpson 15p+4r+3a

Jiangsu 110
Tang Zhengdong 19p+11r+3a+2s+1bl, Hu Xuefeng 27p+6r+5a+6s+5to, Tang Zhengdong 19p+11r+2s+1bl, Fang Hui 5p+6r, Ryan Forehan-Kelly 28p+13r+3a+2s+1bl, Yi Li 12p+3r, Yang Li 6p+1r+1s, Raheim Brown 6p+7r+2a, Han Shuo 4p+3r+2a
Guangsha 97
Garnett Thompson 0p+4r+1a+1s+2bl, Ying Kui 13p+2r+3a+1s, Zhang Nan 12p+10r+1a+1s, Rodney White 43p+7r+6a+4s+1bl, Li Meng 8p+3r+2a+2s, Chao Ma 10p+2r+1a+1s

Shanghai 95
Liu Wei 20p+10r+7a+1s+3to, Wang Yong 6p+11r+2a+1s, Xu Yong 13p+9r+7a+1s, Wu Yang 24min+18p+5r+1a, Jerod Ward 20p+5r+1bl, Pig Miller 14p+7r+1a+1bl
Beijing 84
Xie Libin 5p+1r+3a, Chen Lei 17p+1r+2a+1bl, Zhang Yunsong 5p+5r+3a+3s+1bl, Jiao Jian 14p+4r+1a+1s, Olumide Oyedeji 14p+20r+2a+2s+2bl, Men Wei 15p+1r+2s

Shandong 108
Wang Gang 15p+3r+3a+1s, Sun Jie 15p+4r+4a, Hou Bing 19p+10r+1a+4s, Herve Lamizana 23p+11r+6a+2s+5bl, Lou Yandong 12p+1a, Mack Tuck 17p+3r+1a+1s
Zhejiang 84
Deng Li 8p+3r+1a, Soumaila Samake 14p+12r+1a, Ding Jinhui 14p+9r+1a+1s+1bl+6to, Luo Zhi 13p+2r+2a+3s, God Shammgod 21p+3r+2a+3s

Guangdong 137
Zhu Fangyu 26p+3r+5a+1s+1bl, Wang Shipeng 26p+1r+8a+1s, Liu Xiaoyu 2p+5r+1a+1s, Jason Dixon 16p+9r+2a+5s+2bl, Ji Le 9p+3r+1a+2s, Lamond Murray 28p+7r+3a+3s+2bl, Chen Dawei 14p+3r+5a+1s, Zhou Peng 15p+2a+1bl+5to
Yunnan 118
Liu Hao 21p+3r+1a+2s, Dontae Jones 24p+12r+5a, Wang Nan2 19p+5a, Wang Hsin-Kai 14p+5a+1s, Chen Zhaosheng 19p+5r+1a+1s, Nigel Dixon 19p+10r+1a+1s

BEIJING LOSE TO SHANGHAI!! -by Ogoh Odaudu
It was a woeful night for fans of beijing ducks as visiting Shanghai,who sit on the bottom of the CBA table took their darling team to the cleaners in their fixture this evening in Beijing.Final scores was Shanghai-95,beijing-84.Beijing started off strong taking the first quarter with 19pts to Shanghai`s 16.Halftime scores were 43-41 in favour of Beijing.The game was close all through the third quarter before Liu Wei (190-G-80)`s inspirational performance made the difference in the 4th period.Shanghai won the period 33 to 20pts.Leading all scoring for the night was Oyedeji Olumide (208-C/F-81) with 24pts and 20rebs.Chen Lei (195-G/F-83) and Men Wei (189-G-87) each scored 17 and 15pts respectively for the beijing side.Liu Wei and Ward Jerod (206-F/G-76, college: Michigan) scored 20pts apiece for Shanghai while Wu Yang (206-C/F-88) and Miller Anthony (206-C/F-71, college: Michigan St.) scored 18 and 14pts respectively.

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CUBA

TNA Final Review "Central Group" and "East Group" -by Alessandro Fontana
This is the Final review for the "Grupo Central" and "Grupo Oriental" of TNA 2007.
GRUPO CENTRAL
CIEGO DE AVILA= Ciego de Avila was as always the best team of this TNA with a 21-3 standings. Ciego de Avila is strong, They have players with great experience as Michael Guerra (188-G-79) and "El Gato" Geoffrey Silvestre (202-F/C-79). "El gato" Silvestre, one of the most important attractions of the Cuban league, was the best scorer of the team with 16,3 pts in only 13 games. Yudniel Perez played a great TNA with 13,3 pts and 2,6 steals. Michael Guerra scored 12,2 pts per game. Ciego de Avila is the team with more possibilities to win the LSB. vote: 9,5
CAMAGUEY= Camaguey played a "spectacular " basket in this TNA. They were one of the most beautiful teams and they could also defeat Ciego de Avila. They ended with a 19-5 standings. The MVP was Yorman Polas (192-F-85) (15,5 pts + 3,2 steals). To mention also the players YordanisYaca (13,4 pts) and Leonel Batista the best rebounder of the team, very important for his great intensity in defense. Camaguey is an ambitious team and a final against Ciego de Avila, it would be very exciting. Vote: 8,5
VILLA CLARA= Villa Clara could qualify for LSB after the "Repechaje Group". The MVP of the team and of the whole "Central group" was Andy Boffill. Boffill scored 25,6 per game, the second best scorer after Allens Jemmott (193-G-80). Boffill was also the player who scored more points in a game of this TNA (52 pts). To mention also Alisbey Rodriguez (13,3 pts) the best rebounder of the team. For Villa Clara is already a "great result" to be in the LSB. It is really difficult to conquer the Final. Vote: 7,5
SANCTI SPIRITUS= Sancti Spiritus did not played a good TNA, They ended with a 6-18 standings. The fans in Sancti Spiritus expected more because in Sancti Spiritus there are two "Stars of the Cuban League" as Yunior Jimenez (19,7 pts) and Alexei Rodriguez (16,9 pts) the best rebounder of the team with almost 7 rebs per game. Alexei Mestre (180-G-86) was also one of the best "steals-man" of the torunament with 5,1 per game, but if a team does not play as a team, it is difficult to have results. Vote: 5
CIENFUEGOS= Cienfuegos was the team with the worst standings, 2-22. But Cienfuegos is a very young team, Reinier Quesada (15,7 ps + 5,5 steals) is 20, Ruiz is 20 and Calderon is only 17, They have all the time to have experiences and in two or three TNA's, Cienfuegos can really become a strong team. The MVP of the team was Robercy Jova (196-F-83) with 17,1 pts per game. Vote: 6

GRUPO ORIENTAL
SANTIAGO DE CUBA= Santiago was the best team of the "Grupo Oriental" with a 17-7 standings. Santiago is qualified for the LSB 2007 and They have possibilities to win the tournament. They are a really strong team, hard defense, intensity and a good shot percentage. The MVP was Esteban Martinez (21,3 pts), one the best scorers of the "TNA East Group". Martinez is a great player who should deserve European teams, in Cuba his talent is really "illegal, unbeatable". To mention also Damian Del Toro (184-G-81) (16,4 pts) and Eddy Hechevarria (192-F-86) with his "spectacular" NBA blocks. Vote: 8,5
GUANTANAMO= Guantanamo ended the TNA with a 16-8 standings. They could qualify for LSB but it is very difficult a Guantanamo Victory, The team is not yet ready for the "Cuban Title". The MVP of the team was Elvis Pons (16,1 pts). To mention also Georvis Elias (19,1 pts), the best assist-man of the East group. Vote: 7
HOLGUIN= Holguin was the only team who played the "Repechaje group" but They could not qualify for LSB. Holguin played a good basket (13-11 standings) in the season but They had no more "fuel" in the last important games. Henry Simon (25,1 pts) was the MVP of the team, the best scorer and the best rebounder. To mention also Fernando Caballero (16,8 pts), a great fighter in the area. Holguin is a young team, next year, They can really reach the LSB (if LSB will be played with 8 and not 6 teams). Vote 6,5
LAS TUNAS= Las Tunas ended the season with a 11-13 standings. The MVP was Tomas Garcia (24,1 pts). To mention also Yoangel Medina (187-G-87) who played a great season, he is very young with a great future in the Cuban League. Vote: 6
GRANMA= Granma could not compete against teams too strong for their level. They ended with a 3-21 standings. The MVP was Alexander Guillen (22,0 pts) "the only preacher in the desert", He was too alone to led up Granma to an impossible LSB. Vote: 6 (They could not give more, They played always with the heart)
A. Fontana

LSB, incredible results, Ciego de Avila is 0-2 -by Alessandro Fontana
LSB is started and...what incredible results! Ciego de Avila was defeated two times by Capitalinos. Camaguey defeated two times Santiago de Cuba, Camaguey with these two victories showed all his power and his ambition to win the LSB, with this great Yorman Polas (192-F-85), everything is possible. Guantanamo won easily against Villa Clara and Matanzas was defeateed by Metropolitanos in the first game but in the second game They could win thanks to the "MJ of the Carribean" Allens Jemmott (193-G-80), already the best scorer of the Tournament with an incredible 34,5 pts per game. The next game will be: Metropolitanos-Ciego de Avila, Matanzas-Capitalinos, Guantanamo-Camaguey and Santiago de Cuba-Villa Clara.
The results:
Metropolitanos- Matanzas= 97-93 (M= Borlot 24, Dube 21, Hernandez 11; Ma= Jemmott 37, Torriente 15)
Metropolitanos- Matanzas= 90-100 (M= Dube 15, Borlot 14; Ma= Jemmott 32, Norona 19, Diaz 14)
Ciego de Avila- Capitalinos= 78-81 (CAV= Silvestre 24, Guerra 22; C= Valdes 20, Garcia 14, Lavastida 13)
Ciego de Avila- Capitalinos= 54-64 (CAV= Silvestre 18, Granda 11; C= Lavastida 18, Leguen 17, Torres 11)
Guantanamo- Villa Clara= 96-67 (G= Simon 32, Elias 15 Masso 14; VC= Boffill 22, Carta 14)
Guantanamo-Villa Clara= 96-76 (G= Elias 20, Soria 19, Pons 12; VC= Carta 22, Arcia 10)
Camaguey- Santiago de Cuba= 82-76 (C= Jaca 15, Batista 14, Yorman Polas 14; S= Del Toro 22, Martinez 16)
Camaguey- Santiago de Cuba= 82-69 (C= Yorman Polas 34, Batista 21, Jmenez 9; S= Del toro 24, Martinez 19)
A. Fontana

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D-LEAGUE

Energy Defeat Jam 121-113 -by Surujh Roopnarine
The Iowa Energy evened their home record on the season at 2-2 as they defeated the visiting Bakersfield Jam last night 121-113.
Chicago Bull assignee JamesOn Curry (6'3''-G-86, college: Oklahoma St.) continued his strong play for the Energy with 19 points and a game high 25 assists while Mike Efevberha (6'5''-G-84, college: Cal.St. Northridge) had his best game of the season, scoring a team high 28 on 10-16 shooting. Former Chicago Bull Andre Barrett (5'9''-G-82, college: Seton Hall) scored a game high 32 for Bakersfield. Brandon Bowman (6'9''-F-84, agency: David Lee services, college: Georgetown) pulled down a game high 12 rebounds in the losing effort.
The Energy improve to 4-3 on the season, while Bakersfield falls to 1-6.
JAM: Andre Barrett (32p+8as), Brandon Bowman (18p+12rb), Scooter McFadgon (24p+5rb), James Peters (10p+8rb)
ENERGY: Mike Efevberha (28p+5rb), JamesOn Curry (19p+15rb), Deji Akindele (15p+7rb), Dwayne Mitchell (16p)

Cheyne Gadson Returns to D-League -by Surujh Roopnarine
Former Austin Toro and Tulsa 66er Cheyne Gadson (6'4''-G-80, agency: Elfus-Siegel Management (ESM), college: Oklahoma St.) has returned to the D-League with Austin after a stint with Italy's Armani Jeans Milano. Gadson's first foray into a foreign pro league was short lived as he appeared in just 8 games for the Euroleague club, averaging 7.8 points, 1.8 rebounds and 1.8 assists in just over 20 minutes per game.
Gadson averaged 15.7 points, 4.8 assists and 3.7 rebounds in 48 games in the D-League last season and was named All D-League Honorable Mention. The guard from Oklahoma State also earned a spot on the D-League Ambassadors team that traveled to China in the summer of 2007 to compete in the Stankovic Cup.
The Toros released Tim Bush (6'6''-F-83, agency: Warren Sports, college: Baylor) to make room on the roster.

Other Transactions
The Utah Jazz assigned rookie swingman Morris Almond (6'6''-F-85, college: Rice) to the Utah Flash.
The Houston Rockets assigned former Oregon Duck point guard Aaron Brooks (6'0''-G-85, agency: CAA Sports, college: Oregon) to the Rio Grande Valley Vipers.

The Los Angeles D-Fenders re-acquired former UCLA Bruin guard Brian Morrison (6'2''-G-82, college: UCLA).
Idaho signed Mike Taylor (6'2''-G-86) out of Iowa State and released former Southern Illinois guard Jamaal Tatum (6'2''-G-84, college: S.Illinois) due to injury.

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DOMINICAN REP.

Top Ten Rookies (NBA) -by Kerwin Abreu
Al Horford (208-F/C-86, college: Florida) the Atlanta Hawks Center is having a dreamed season. He is averaging 8.8 points 10.6 Rebound per game. The Rookie Rebound Leader. He is positioned into the top ten rookie right now.
Zaza Pachulia has been coming from the bench since he returned from the Injured List. Horford has made a difference for the Atlanta Hawks this season. Horford a two time Florida Gators Champion is now the Dominican Hope to be in the top ten votes for the Rookie of the Year race for the first time in the NBA History.

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EUROLEAGUE

Marcus Brown lights it up to burn Tau -by Eurobasket News
Zalgiris - Tau Ceramica 95:92

Zalgiris came back to winning ways as they pounded Tau in Kaunas. The win saw them improve to 3-4 record just a victory behind Tau and Olimpiakos that share the third spot in Group A. Marcus Brown (192-G-74, agency: Higher Vision Sports, college: Murray St.) fired 26 points including 6/6 from beyond the arc to pump it up for Zalgiris in front of supportive 5000 crowd at the Darius and Girenas Sports Center. Tau got to a better start to this one as Tiago Splitter (211-C/F-85, agency: Interperformances) and Igor Rakocevic (191-G-78) opened the scoring stats for Spaniards and soon lift them to a 14:6 lead. But the hosts handed the ball to Marcus Brown who was hit a pair of triples and Eurelijus Zukauskas (218-C-73, agency: Interperformances) added from inside the paint to cut the gap to 2 points 16:18. However Pete Mickeal (198-F-78, college: Cincinnati) hit from downtown and William McDonald (207-C-79, college: S.Florida) capped the first frame with a jump shot to ensure a 23:19 lead for Tau. Jonas Maciulis (200-G/F-85, agency: Interperformances) and Mantas Kalnietis (195-G-86, agency: Interperformances) scored quick 5 points for Zalgiris to open the second term and put the home team in front 25:24. The teams exchanged the strikes from now on and kept it extra close throughout the second quarter. Finally Igor Rakocevic came up with a layup to crown the first half and keep Tau up 48:46. The complexion did not change a bit after the break as neither side was able to clear off for some breathing space. At last Eurelijus Zukauskas and Marko Popovic (185-G-82, college: S.Idaho JC) combined 4 straight points to put Zalgiris in front by 6 points 62:56. But Zoran Planinic (198-G-82) responded with 5 points for Tau and the gap grew thin 64:61. Igor Rakocevic once again hit a closing basket in the frame and Tau trailed by a single point after three quarters 63:64. Marko Popovic and Marcus Brown hit consecutive triples for the hosts midway through the final term to ensure a 83:77 lead. Later Marcus Brown emerged impressive with two long jumpers to mount pressure on the visitors 93:85. Tiago Splitter and Igor Rakocevic answered with 6 straight points for Tau and the deficit was trimmed to 2 points to 91:93. Zoran Planinic later hit one free throw, while Marcus Brown responded with both his attempts to make it 95:92 for Zalgiris with 8 seconds left. Tau decided to deliver the ball to Igor Rakocevic but his potential tying three-pointer went off target to seal the win for the home side.
Marko Popovic provided 18 points for Zalgiris. Jonas Maciulis contributed 11 points in a winning effort for the hosts. Igor Rakocevic and Zoran Planinic poured in 18 points apiece for Tau. Tiago Splitter secured 16 points and 8 boards in the 3rd loss for Tau. Zalgiris outrebounded their opponents 37:26 and converted 49% from the field. Zalgiris will next host La Fortezza on December 13.

Zalgiris: Marcus Brown 26, Marko Popovic 18, Jonas Maciulis 11
Tau: Igor Rakocevic 18, Zoran Planinic 18, Tiago Splitter 16

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GERMANY

Koln edges Paderborn in OT Friday night! -by Michael Taylor
Several 99ers made clutch plays as Koln edged digibu Baskets Paderborn 86-79 Friday night in Game Day 11 action at Paderborn. Immaneul McElroy tied the game at 75 apiece sending the action to overtime where he started scoring with a free throw then buried two clutch foul shots with 10 seconds remaining to help seal the win. Misan Nikagbatse and Yassin Idbihi also made a important free throws for Koln in OT. Nikagbatse topscored for Koln with 18pt 5reb and McElroy produced 16pt 7reb 8ast for the winners.Toby Bailey added 15pt 12reb and Yassin Idbihi 15pt as well. Paderborn put 4 starters in double figures led by Tim Black's 19pt, Steve Esterkamp's 15pt and 11pt apiece from Nathan Peavy and Marius Nolte. Head Coach Sasa Obradovic and his team broke the game open with a 25-13 2Q earning a 38-27 halftime lead. Paderborn responded with a terrific 24-14 3Q and the game tightened with the hosts trailing by one 52-51 going into the 4th. In a fantastic 4Q, Paderborn edged ahead 72-68 but a clutch Toby Bailey three pulled Koln within one 72-71 with 22 seconds to play in regulation. The 99ers fouled Paderborn guard Malik Moore who converted one of two setting the score at 73-71. Paderborn chose to foul sending Koln to the line and regain possession extending the game. Misan Nikagbatse sank the two foul shots evening the score at 73. After a timeout, Koln fouled Moore again and this time he buried both giving Paderborn a 75-73 lead with seconds to play. Toby Bailey's desperation three missed but Immanuel McElroy grabbed the rebound and scored the tying basket with 1 second to play. In OT, McElroy gave Koln an early 76-75 lead making one of two FT. In the extra session, thanks to clutch free throw shooting, Koln outscored Paderborn 11-4 to earn the win. Koln shot 47% to Paderborn's 39% and outrebounded the hosts 49-26. Paderborn shot 47% from three (10-21) and took care of the ball well with only 8turnovers. This outstanding game tips off Game Day 12 in the Bundesliga with style. Koln evened their record at 6-6 while Paderborn slipped to 3-8.

The prime time game of Game Day 12 features ALBA Berlin taking on brose Baskets Bamberg Saturday in Nurnberg for a 3pm tip. The game can be seen live on BBL.tv at www.sportdigital.tv . Other games see Artland Dragons traveling to Tubingen to tangle with Walter Tigers Tubingen Saturday at 7pm, EnBW Ludwigsburg venturing up to Braunschweig to meet NewYorker Phantoms Braunschweig at Volkswagonhalle in a 7pm tip, Giessen 46ers visit Telekom Baskets Bonn and TBB Trier heads east to Science City Jena in an important game for both teams. Sunday's action features Bayer Leverkusen hosting Eisbaren Bremerhaven at Wilhelm Dopatka Halle, BG74 Gottingen playing Deutsche Bank Skyliners at Ballsporthalle in Frankfurt for a 3pm tip off and ratiopharm Ulm heading north to meet Ewe Baskets Oldenburg at 5pm. BBL.TV will show both games in Frankfurt and Oldenburg live at www.sportdigital.

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HUNGARY

Kormend: Anthony Harris is the new guard -by Tamas Deri
Anthony Harris (188-G), the starter guard from Miami University arrived yesterday to Hungary and will have his first practice with his new team tonight!
The ex-starter of Miami had a great senior season, averaged 10.2ppg, 2.3rpg, 3.4apg, FGP: 38.5%, 3Pts: 31.6%, FT: 75.6%. He got drafted in the D-League by Anaheim, but left the team without playing any games.

ASE: Horvath is back -by Tamas Deri
After a couple of months hungarian forward, Zoltan Horvath (207-F/C-79, agency: Laszlo Vinko Services) is back to his ex-team in Paks! The forward of our national team signed with greek club Paok this summer, but did not get the chance to improve himself! The greek management just broke his contract and he had several offers from hungarian top teams.

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INDONESIA

6-foot-9 power-forward/center Thoyib Isman -by Jayjay Robles
The Future of Indonesia Basketball is 6-foot-9 power-forward/center Thoyib Isman. Formerly with University of Perpetual Basketball of Philippine National Collegiate Athletic Association (NCAA) and currently competing on Indonesia National at the South East Asia Games basketball tournament. Thoyib is a Marcus Camby like player. He is long and athletic, a great shot blocker, good rebounder with a developing scoring game. Even though he is slim he is still a force to be reckon with in the South East Asia basketball Scene. So keep you eye out for Isman.

SEAGAMES results day 1 -by Jayjay Robles
Indonesia gets by Malaysia. 70 to 55 in the 2007 SEAGAMES basketball tourney. Amin PRIHANTONO led Indonesia with 14 points and the star point god Mario Wuysang had a modest 8 point performance. The next game for Indonesia will be against the tournament favorite Philippines. Two of South East Asia finest will face off, as Jason Castro of the Philippines and Mario Wuysang will battle to lead their teams to victory. Also here is Indonesia's team roster. With Jersey Numbers, Name, Position, and Height.

4 COKORDA Raka C 2.02/6'8"
5 POEDJAKESUMA Andi F 1.87/6'2"
6 JULIUS ACHMAD Faisal G 1.80/5'11"
7 PRIHANTONO Amin G 1.88/6'2"
8 EKAYANA Andrie G 1.81/5'11"
9 SONDAKH Youbel F 1.88/6'2"
10 WUYSANG Mario G 1.76/5'9"
11 TIARA Andre F 1.90/6'3" 29
12 ISMAN Thoyib C 2.03/6'8"
13 GUNAWAN Rony C 1.94/6'4"
14 SITUMORANG Welyanson F 1.88/6'2"
15 WIDAYAT JATI Wahyu F 1.89/6'2"

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ITALY

Lega2 - Last market news -by Gabriele Fioretti
Novara agreed terms with Giorgio Mapelli (200-F-78) and Steve Burtt (185-G-84, agency: CAA Sports, college: Iona), and after the sign of Hassan Adams (193-G-84, agency: David Lee services, college: Arizona), inks also Maurizio Ferrara (185-G-86, agency: Players Group) as new playmaker for the temporary injure of Mats Levin (188-G-77).

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JORDAN

Orthodox begins Harriri's tournament successfully -by Mohammed Malas
Kelly Wise (208-F-80, college: Memphis) scored 29 points in his 1st participation with Orthodox as they won over Muttahed Tripoli of Lebanon by 2 points only 93-91 in their oppening game of 17th Harriri International Tournament which began yesterday and resumes until 12th of December.

Wise played in the last 2 seasons in Mexico after his graduation from Memphis University in NCAA.

Chad Hendrick gave the winning to the jordanians by scoring a 3-point shot in the last seconds of the game, Fdel Najjar and Naser Bassam played well also to push the team to the win despite being behind by 19 points in the 3rd quarter!!

Al Ahli of Egypt will be Orthodox's 2nd opponent on sunday in Group B which also contains Al Fateh Club from Saudi Arabia, Group A includes: Al Riyadi (LEB), Blue Stars (LEB), Al Muharraq (BHR) and ASS Sale (MOR).

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KUWAIT

Smith signs for Al Nasr -by Ali Ahmed
Al Nasr basketball team management agreed terms with the American Center John Francis Smith (203-F/C-81, agency: Weller Sports - Entertainment, college: Staten Island) to play for them this season.

Smith has a great attitude and intensity, very aggressive and a good defender, quick and athletic .

Awards/Achievements:
CUNY Regular Season Champion -02
CUNY Tournament Champion -02
CUNY All-Conference Second Team -03 -05
CUNY All-Tournament Team -05

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LIGA AMERICAS

Soles complete Group A action undefeated -by Eurobasket News
Soles - PBL All Star 79:70

Mexican Soles remained unbeaten at the first stage of Liga Americas tournament. They faced PBL All Star that entered the game with 1-1 record. PBL used consecutive three-pointers from Edwin Tatum (193-G-81, college: Stephen F. Austin) to clear off early in the opening frame 12:4. A pair of successful plays for James Penny (198-F-76, college: TCU) allowed Mexican team to cut the gap to 5 points, but Edwin Tatum came up with another triple to keep PBL All Star side in front. However James Penny dunked the ball home and De Juan Wheat (183-G-73, college: Louisville) connected from beyond the arc as Soles came within a single point from PBL All Star. The teams exchanged the baskets to cap the first stanza and headed into the second term all square at 27. De Juan Wheat and James Penny combined for 5 straight points to start the second frame and lifted Soles up. Vasquez stepped up with some impressive three-pointers midway through the term to maintain the lead for Soles. Mexican side finished the first half with a bunch of free throws to make it 46:37 cushion at the interval. Soles posted a 7:0 rally to begin the second half with and enjoyed a 53:37 advantage 3 minutes into it. But PBL All Star responded with an 8:0 rally of their own to restore the margin. The game was pretty tense with a lot of fouls committed and the teams were mainly piling up points from charity stripe. But PBL All Star had a momentum late in the third stanza as Rafael Perez (185-G-82) and William Howard (196-G/F-84, college: N.Carolina A&T) stepped up with consecutive jumpers to pull American team within a single point 56:57. Sutton hit a jump shot for PBL All Star at the start of the final period as they surged ahead 58:57. The lead then changed hands for a couple of times before James Penny and Lopez produced 5 straight points and saw Soles clear off to a 5-point distance with 17 seconds left. Russell missed his long range attempt, while De Juan Wheat sealed the win from inside the paint.
James Penny topscored for Soles with 19 points. De Juan Wheat had 15 points, while Carillo contributed 13 points and 10 boards for the winners. Rafael Perez finished with game-high 20 points for PBL All Star. Ronald Pittman (199-F-82, college: Angelo St.) ensured 15 points and 8 rebounds as PBL All Star fell to 1-2 record in Group A.

Soles: James Penny 19, De Juan Wheat 15, Carillo 13+10 boards
PBL All Star: Rafael Perez 20, Ronald Pittman 15+8 boards

Cangrejeros dispatch Metros to stay tuned -by Eurobasket News
Cangrejeros - Metros 91:62

Puerto Rican Cangrejeros proved they are to be considered a big time threat at the Liga Americas scene. Yesterday they cruised past Metros de Eddin 'Guayito' Santiago (185-G-79, agency: Next Level, college: Missouri Southern) and improved to 2-1 record in Group A. This meant they went through to the next round and would continue to seek for the trophy in later stages. Cangrejeros opened the game quite vigorously and drove to a 7:0 lead less than two minutes into the game. David Diaz (189-G-78) finally hit a triple to open the scoring for Metros but it was quickly matched by Robert Traylor (204-F/C-77, college: Michigan)'s dunk and layups from Ricardo Dalmau (188-G-77). He later drained a three-pointer to mark an 18:8 lead for the hosts. Ricardo Dalmau completed his 9-point baggage in the opening frame and secured a 24:18 advantage for Cangrejeros. Metros began the second term much more aggressively and cut the gap to 2 points on David Diaz layup just over a minute into the period. However three triples from Michael Watson (186-G-80, college: Mo.-Kansas City) cooled the visitors off. Cangrejeros picked up a 40:29 advantage and capitalized on some confusion in Metro's defense to enlarge the gap to 19 points at halftime 50:31. Robert Traylor scored 7 first points for Puerto Rican team in the third stanza as they held on to the lead. Ricardo Dalmau hit a triple to make it a 63:42 game, but Joel Curbelo (186-G-74, agency: Next Level) matched well from beyond the arc to keep the deficit within 20-point territory. But Cangrejeroz used an 8:0 rally early in the fourth period to deny any possible comeback efforts from the visitors. Eddin 'Guayito' Santiago and Ricardo Dalmau buried consecutive long bombs midway through the quarter to seal the win for Cangrejeros. Ricardo Dalmau and Michael Watson led the action with 22 points apiece for Cangrejeros. Robert Traylor stepped up with 15 points and 10 boards in the second win for Puerto Rican side. Julio Solano (202-F/C-77) responded with 17 points and 9 boards for Metros. David Diaz had 11 points in defeat. Cangrejeros outrebounded their opponents 40:32 and converted 49% from the field.

Cangrejeros: Ricardo Dalmau 22, Michael Watson 22, Robert Traylor 15+10 boards
Metros: Julio Solano 17+9 boards, David Diaz 11

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LITHUANIA

Marcus Brown lights it up to burn Tau -by Eurobasket News
Zalgiris - Tau Ceramica 95:92

Zalgiris came back to winning ways as they pounded Tau in Kaunas. The win saw them improve to 3-4 record just a victory behind Tau and Olimpiakos that share the third spot in Group A. Marcus Brown (192-G-74, agency: Higher Vision Sports, college: Murray St.) fired 26 points including 6/6 from beyond the arc to pump it up for Zalgiris in front of supportive 5000 crowd at the Darius and Girenas Sports Center. Tau got to a better start to this one as Tiago Splitter (211-C/F-85, agency: Interperformances) and Igor Rakocevic (191-G-78) opened the scoring stats for Spaniards and soon lift them to a 14:6 lead. But the hosts handed the ball to Marcus Brown who was hit a pair of triples and Eurelijus Zukauskas (218-C-73, agency: Interperformances) added from inside the paint to cut the gap to 2 points 16:18. However Pete Mickeal (198-F-78, college: Cincinnati) hit from downtown and William McDonald (207-C-79, college: S.Florida) capped the first frame with a jump shot to ensure a 23:19 lead for Tau. Jonas Maciulis (200-G/F-85, agency: Interperformances) and Mantas Kalnietis (195-G-86, agency: Interperformances) scored quick 5 points for Zalgiris to open the second term and put the home team in front 25:24. The teams exchanged the strikes from now on and kept it extra close throughout the second quarter. Finally Igor Rakocevic came up with a layup to crown the first half and keep Tau up 48:46. The complexion did not change a bit after the break as neither side was able to clear off for some breathing space. At last Eurelijus Zukauskas and Marko Popovic (185-G-82, college: S.Idaho JC) combined 4 straight points to put Zalgiris in front by 6 points 62:56. But Zoran Planinic (198-G-82) responded with 5 points for Tau and the gap grew thin 64:61. Igor Rakocevic once again hit a closing basket in the frame and Tau trailed by a single point after three quarters 63:64. Marko Popovic and Marcus Brown hit consecutive triples for the hosts midway through the final term to ensure a 83:77 lead. Later Marcus Brown emerged impressive with two long jumpers to mount pressure on the visitors 93:85. Tiago Splitter and Igor Rakocevic answered with 6 straight points for Tau and the deficit was trimmed to 2 points to 91:93. Zoran Planinic later hit one free throw, while Marcus Brown responded with both his attempts to make it 95:92 for Zalgiris with 8 seconds left. Tau decided to deliver the ball to Igor Rakocevic but his potential tying three-pointer went off target to seal the win for the home side.
Marko Popovic provided 18 points for Zalgiris. Jonas Maciulis contributed 11 points in a winning effort for the hosts. Igor Rakocevic and Zoran Planinic poured in 18 points apiece for Tau. Tiago Splitter secured 16 points and 8 boards in the 3rd loss for Tau. Zalgiris outrebounded their opponents 37:26 and converted 49% from the field. Zalgiris will next host La Fortezza on December 13.

Zalgiris: Marcus Brown 26, Marko Popovic 18, Jonas Maciulis 11
Tau: Igor Rakocevic 18, Zoran Planinic 18, Tiago Splitter 16

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MEXICO

Soles Move on In LOA, LNBP Action Continues -by Justin Brink
Playing in their second game in the League of the Americas (LOA), which kicked off this past Tuesday, the Soles of Mexicali beat up on the Metros of Santiago 94-83. The win nearly assures the Soles a ticket into second round play as they stand at 2-0 in their group. Next up for the Soles are the PBL All Stars who got battered last night 97-73 by the Cangrejeros of Puerto Rico. Click here for more LNBP and LOA results.

Najera Numbers in NBA. -by Charles Elwes

After 20 games in the season for Eduaro Najera has the next
season avereges: 6.7 ppg , 5 rpg , 1.3apg , 22.9 mpg ,1spg.
He is shooting from the floor 45% , ft 66% , 3point field 40%.
Eduardo Najera (202-F-76, college: Oklahoma) last 3 games

vs Miami Heat made 10 pts , 5 rebounds , 3 asists in the win for

the Denver Nuggets . Against the Lakers they lost but had again

10 pts , 7 rebounds , 3 assists in 23 minutes.And last nigth versus

Dallas Mavericks had 5 pts , 7 rebounds , 1 asist and 1 steal in 25 minutes

in the win for Denver Nuggets. Utah Jazz(13-6)its in first place in the Northwest in

the western conference just behind are the Nuggets(12-8) a game and half behind.

Regios Full of Confidence -by Carlos Chapa
Mexican team Fuerza Regia Monterrey is motivated to play at a high level in the FIBA Americas League, said Fernando Del Angel (195-G/F-75) -Mexican starting small forward-.

And why deny it, if they have came back from a 5-5 record with former coach George Torres to a 23-12 record with now coach Jose Martinez , to position fourth in the General Standings of the LNBP.

But for now Monterrey's team is focused on FIBA, where they will face (All games broadcasted by Fox Sports Americas Live):
Capitanes de Arecibo December 11, 17:00 (Mexican Time)
Miami Tropics December 12, 19:10 (Mexican Time)
Halcones UV Xalapa December 13, 17:00 (Mexican Time)

We spoke to Fernando Del Angel about the preparation needed to face competitions of this matter, and about playing with great teammates.

How well prepared is the team Fuerza Regia, before playing the FIBA Americas League?
“We're prepared to be positioned in first place, the team is on a winning streak, but mainly we are full of motivation, and happy, because we are going to play on a highly ranked tournament,” Said the “fireman.”

After having played with many International experienced players, what feeling do you have?
“Most of all, I am full of confidence to go out to the court and demonstrate what I can do on the team, I know that we are going to face strong, big players, but again, we are motivated and ready to play,” Added three-point specialist.

This is the official roster to participate on FIBA Americas League:

Felipe Sanchez (202-F/C-74)
Fernando Del Angel Cruz
Fred Hooks (198-F, college: Humboldt St.).
Gerald Williams (190-G-68, college: New Orleans)
Dana Gerrick Rivera (191-G-82)
Juan Garcia (170-G-77)
Nick Jones (190-G-81, college: UCSB)
Omar Quintero (183-G-81, agency: Paris Global Sports, college: S.Nazarene)
Osmand Stanley (192-F-81)
Salvador Garcia (175-G-80)
Santiago Aguirre (203-C-85, college: Westmont)
Matthew Mitchell (199-F-77, college: Morningside)
Chris Jackson (208-C-81, college: N.Mexico St.)

Click for full coverage about FIBA Americas League

Soles Shine in the LOA -by Charles Elwes

Soles Mexicali won there group today after beating the PBL All Stars
by a score of 79 - 70 , in wich Soles had dificulties until the third quater
in the final minutes when the PBL All Stars came back from defecits of 8 to
10 pts by the Mexican team to tie the game 68 - 68.For the PBL All Stars the best

player this game was Rafael Perez (185-G-82)with 20 pts.PBL All Stars had dificulties

defending the big players of Mexicali , the tallest man for the PBL was

Albert Burditt (203-F-72, college: Texas).The best players today for Mexicali were

Arturo Vazquez (194-G/F-78) with 11 pts , De Juan Wheat (183-G-73, college: Louisville) 15 pts

and James Penny (198-F-76, college: TCU) with 19 pts. Soles Mexicali had a recor of 3 wins 0 losses

and put the name of the LNBP very high and in general of Mexican basketball. Now next week it's

the turn of Fuerza Regia Monterrey and Halcones Xalapa in there group in Miami Florida in the LOA action

in group B.

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

League news -by Nour Amri
IRT's management announced the arrival of Said Fath who signed his 4 years contract last Wednesday. Said Fath, who played last year with IRT, was owned by RCA. After many weeks of negotiation RCA agreed on the financial terms of the transfer (25000 Euros).

CMC's coach resigned on Monday. Bouchaib Azhari who guided CMC last two season and promoted them to Division 1 has decided to leave in the wake of the team's terrible start to the new campaign. CMC management replaced him with former FUS coach Rachid Yatribi.

After 6 rounds, the League's top scorers are:
- Zakaria Mesbahi (ASS) with 155 points (22,14 points per game)
- Papis Diouf (IRT) with 146 points (20,85 points per game)
- Marius Samata (FUS) 135 points (19,28 points per game)
- Mustapha Khalfi (IRT) with 125 points (17,85 points per game)
- Alpha Traore (MAS) with 124 points (17,71 points per game)

Day 7 Results -by Nour Amri

Day 7 Results:
The game of the week was in Tangier were defending champions RCA had a crucial game to confirm their sole position in the league. The game was very tense and the score very close, since both teams were playing for the League's first place. But the local team stretched their legs in the 4th quarter, opening up a seven-point advantage at the buzzer courtesy of an inspired performance by Ahmed Kajaj, who once again made the difference with his money 3 points shots (IRT-RCA:68-61).

FUS had another tough game in Fez. FUS, with the youngest players of the League, showed some good fighting spirit but was never able to lead the score and any time they got remotely close, MAS had the answer. (MAS-FUS: 74-67).

CMC create the surprise of the week with his first win of the season (106-98) over KAC. First win for CMC's new coach Rachid Yatribi who declares:”this victory will help me motivate my players. The most they need now is self-confidence”.

WAC was slow to get into his stride against TSC, but the excellent performance of Michael Lasme who poured in 31 points (7 out of 10 from 6,25 m) and pulled down 10 rebounds, helped his team to win (83-70).

Day 7 Results: WAC-TSC: 83-70 / IRT-RCA: 68-61 / CMC-KAC: 106-98 / ASS-MET: 87-52 / MAS-FUS: 74-67

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NBA

Allen Iverson fires 35 points as Denver coasts past Dallas -by Eurobasket News
Allen Iverson (6'1''-G-75, college: Georgetown) burst out with another huge performance as he drained 35 points to pound the Mavericks in Dallas. A.I. occupies the fourth spot in the league in scoring as he delivers 25.5 points per game for the Nuggets. The victory saw Denver to reach Dallas in the ladder as both teams are tied at 12-8 record in the West. Linas Kleiza (6'8''-F-85, agency: Interperformances, college: Missouri) was supportive with season-high 23 points off the bench. Dirk Nowitzki (6'11''-F-78) had 32 points and 12 boards for Dallas but the Mavericks were sloppy offensively committing season-high 18 turnovers. Denver shot 50% from the field, while limiting their opponents to 41%. Denver cleared off in the second quarter as they posted a 24:7 rally to enjoy a 16-point advantage for a moment in the game. Dallas however managed to craft their way back and tied the scoreline in the third stanza. But Allen Iverson emerged with some important baskets and carried the Nuggets to the victory.
Joe Johnson (6'8''-F-81, college: Arkansas) became the hero of another yesterday's encounter. His buzzer-beating jumper brought Atlanta their 8th win in the season. The Hawks beat Minnesota to hand them the 15th loss. It was a close clash with Atlanta leading the way by 14 points after the first quarter. The Timberwolves responded with a 27:8 third stanza to level things up. Minnesota led by a single point when Josh Smith (6'9''-F-85) hit a jumper to put Atlanta up by 1 point with 7 seconds remaining. Marko Jaric (6'6''-G-78) needed 5 seconds to penetrate under the rim and pour in a difficult layup. Atlanta had 2 seconds to save this one and used them to the best. Joe Johnson received the ball shook off Sebastian Telfair (6'0''-G-85) and drained a jumper to seal the victory for the Hawks. Josh Smith topscored for Atlanta with 28 points and 7 blocks. Joe Johnson had 21 points and 9 boards for the winners. Craig Smith responded with 20 points for Minnesota. Marko Jaric secured 18 points, 9 assists and 8 boards in another loss for the reeling Timberwolves.

*****************************************************
POLAND

Market news -by Michal Falkowski
Nenad Stefanovic is a candidate to play in Polpak Swicie. The team from Swiecie, after the departures of Mujo Tuljkovic (he moved to Basket Kwidzyn) and Jared Newson (he failed the trial), started to look for any other replacement. The headcoach, Mihailo Uvalin, has decided to check the abilities of Nenad Stefanovic. Serbian guard began this season in Zeleznik Beograd averaging 2.7 ppg. and 0.7 apg. during 10 mpg. in 7 games. He is expected to appear in the team as soon as possible.

Grzegorz Mordzak changed the team. He started this season playing for BPS Bank Basket Kwidzyn but after two months he changed his mind and terminated contract by a mutual agreement with the club. He has just signed the deal for the end of this season with Sportino Inowroclaw is Polish First League (A2).

Chet Stachitas will be tested by Asco Slask Wroclaw. American player was hired by Viking Gdynia before the season's open but after the club went bankrupt he became an unemployed. Last time he played in Argentina.

Gomes again in Koszalin -by Michal Falkowski
AZS Koszalin found a replacement for Dante Swanson. American player, one of the most important in the team, wasn't so lucky in the last game and he got injured. He will be pausing about 2 months. To replace him the board of AZS signed two-month contract with Josh Gomes (190-G-83, college: E.Illinois). He is well-known in Koszalin and Poland as well, because he had just played in Poland before. He spent whole 2006/2007 season in AZS averaging 9.9 ppg., 2.1 rpg. and 1.5 apg.

Changes in Polpak, Basket and Slask -by Michal Falkowski
Nenad Stefanovic (193-G-85, agency: Interperformances) is a candidate to play in Polpak Swicie. The team from Swiecie, after the departures of Mujo Tuljkovic (he moved to Basket Kwidzyn) and Jared Newson (he failed the trial), started to look for any other replacement. The headcoach, Mihailo Uvalin, has decided to check the abilities of Stefanovic. Serbian guard began this season in Zeleznik Beograd averaging 2.7 ppg. and 0.7 apg. during 10 mpg. in 7 games. He is expected to appear in the team as soon as possible.

Grzegorz Mordzak changed the team. He started this season playing for BPS Bank Basket Kwidzyn but after two months he changed his mind and terminated contract by a mutual agreement with the club. He has just signed the deal for the end of this season with Sportino Inowroclaw is Polish First League (A2).

Chet Stachitas will be tested by Asco Slask Wroclaw. American player was hired by Viking Gdynia before the season's open but after the club went bankrupt he became an unemployed. Last time he played in Argentina.

*****************************************************
PORTUGAL

Darrell Harris in Barreirense -by Bruno Baltazar
Darrell Harris (208-C, agency: Worldwide Hoops, college: Rhode Island) 23 years of age, 2,08m and 106kg of weight is the new reinforcement of Barreirense.
Natural of Cleveland, Ohio, Darrell Harris it comes to strengthen the interior positions where theyfelt some difficulties face the absence of Shaw Hopes.
Excellent rebounder with a good physic.

Offensively he is a player with good mobility . Darrell Harris competed in Rhode Island Rams College the 2 last seasons, averiging 20mts per game; 6.6ppj, 3.7rpg, FG: 48.7%, 3Pts: 35.9%, FT: 57.1% in 29 games. The North American athlete already practised with the team and will play against Porto this Saturday.

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PUERTO RICO

Boricuas Abroad -by Alessandro Fontana
In Euroleague, Daniel Santiago played a great game with his team Unicaja Malaga in istanbul. He scored 25 points (8/12 2pts, 9/9 FT) + 8 rebs + 1 block in 29 minutes, but his team was defeated by Efes Pilsen 91-75. In the same group B also Cibona was defeated, Lietuvos Rytas won against the Croatian team 93-59. Larry Ayuso played 20 minutes with 3 points (1/5 2pts, 0/4 3pts, 1/2 FT) and 2 rebs.
In Uleb Cup, Turow defeated Hapoel Jerusalem 78-68, For "Our Boricua" Andres Rodriguez 6 pts (2/2 2pts, 0/5 3pts, 2/2 FT), 8 assists and 3 rebounds in 37 minutes. Besiktas won in France against Chalon 73-64. Rick Apodaca did not played, Christian Dalmau scored 9 points (2/7 2pts, 1/7 3pts, 2/2 Ft) + 9 rebs and 3 assts in 34 minutes.
In NBA, Dallas was defeated by Denver 122-109. Jose Juan Barea played 6 minutes, with 1 point (0/2 2pts, 0/2 3pts, 1/2 FT), 2 rebs and 1 assist.
In D-League Anaheim defeated Utah 99-91, For Guillermo Diaz 11 pts (4/8 2pts, 0/2 3pts, 3/4 FT), 6 rebs and 2 assts in 38 minutes.
A. Fontana

Cangrejeros de Santurce 1-1 in Liga de las Americas -by Alessandro Fontana
Cangrejeros de Santurce has a 1-1 standings in the Liga de Las Americas. Santurce was defeated in the first game against Soles de Mexicali but in the second game Cangrejeros with a great Alex Falcon (19,0 pts per game) could defeat the PBL All Stars and Santurce is still in the "race" to qualify for the second round of the tournament. Falcon was the best player in this two games but also Ricardo Dalmau (188-G-77) was very important for the team with his points (15,5 pts per game) and his intensity.
SOLES MEXICALI-CANGREJEROS DE SANTURCE= 75-74
Mexicali won the game thanks to his stars De Juan Wheat who scored 23pts with an incredible 5/9 3pts shots and Horacio Llamas who scored 15pts and He catched 8 rebounds. Santurce did not begin good the game (39-24 at the end of the second quarter) but in the third quarter with Falcon, Watson Jr. and the defense of Ricardo Dalmau, Cangrejos came back into the game (26-14), the 3pts "Victory shot" for Mexicali was scored by Richard Lopez .
S= Wheat 23, Llamas 18
C= Falcon 19, Ricardo Dalmau 16 (14 rebs), Raymond Dalmau 14, Watson Jr. 11, E. Santiago 8, Rivas 4 (12 rebs), C. Rivera 2, Melendez 0, Wright 0, Narvaez ne, O. Santiago ne.
CANGREJEROS DE SANTURCE- PBL ALL STARS= 97-75
These are "Our Boricuas", Santurce won a deservedly game against PBL All Stars and Santurce can still to qualify for the Second Round of Liga de las Americas, They have only to defeat Metros de Santiago in the next game. Alex Falcon played a great game with 19pts + 9 rebs in 26 minutes. To mention also the game of Eddin 'Guayito' Santiago, "the head of the team" with 8 turnovers, 5 assists, 9 points and a great intensity in defense. The game was won by Santurce in the third quarter (20-9) after that period, there was no more game only a team in Guaynabo. To mention also the game of Robert Traylor, in the first game the "Big Man" did not played, in the second game He showed all his power in the Area and his intensity in defense (8 rebs + 1 block in only 17 minutes).
PBL= Tatum 17, Tinch 11
C= Falcon 19, Ricardo Dalmau 15, Watson jr 14, Raymond Dalmau 13, Melendez 13, E. Santiago 9 (8 steals), Rivas 8, Traylor 5 (8 rebs), Rivera 1
A. Fontana

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SERBIA

New signings -by Dragan Jankovski

Zdravlje Actavis signed contract with 20-year old point guard Ivan Jovanovic, who started the season in B league team Sloboda Uzice.

Young guard Ognjen Samardzija (-86), who grew up with BC Beovuk 72, joined currently the leading team of B league, Tamis Petrohemija from Pancevo.

Power forward Vladimir Vuksanovic (205-F-78, agency: Interperformances) agreed terms with participant of Serbian A Vizura from Belgrade. Ex player of FMP, Atlas, Mornar Bar, Himki, PAOK and Kalev signed an open contract with newcomer in Serbian best division.

Lower leagues - round 9 -by Nenad Ilijev
First B League
Round 9

Kikinda - Vujic Metalac 89-78 OT
Prva Petoletka - Beograd 75-80
Kotez Bambi - Tamis Petrohemija 67-73
Beovuk 72 - Sloboda 85-69
Vojvodina Zlatiborac - FMP 2 93-88
Zeleznicar - Proleter Naftagas 78-91
Crnokosa - Vrbas 86-81

First Serbian League - South
Round 9

Napredak Maksi-Ko - Novi Pazar 85-77
Prokuplje - Mladost (Ca) 89-75
Zlatibor - Krusevac 79-74
Svilajnac Kompo - Maraton Atlantik 73-87
Mladost (Za) - Bor RTB 81-79
Pirot - Jablanica 92-66
Nis - Goc 90-92

First Serbian League - North
Round 9

Srem - Topola 94-59
Mladost (Ze) - Viva Basket 87-83
Spartak - Polet Keramika 56-85
Radnicki (Ob) - Zemun Lasta 87-69
FKL Temerin - Radnicki (Bg) 77-80
Superfund BP - Grocka 72-59
Partizan 2 - Sport Key 91-72

Round 23

FKL Temerin - Zemun Lasta 87-84

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ST.KITTS

St. Pauls Tamples Hitters To Force Championship Game 3 -by Jay

The excitement at Basketball City on Thursday evening was palpable, suggesting that the night was destined to be a memorable one, and so it was. The defending and regular season SKABA Premier division champions the RAMS Hitters faced off against the young and talented Caribbean Insurance Alliance Tuff Knots. The #2 seeded Tuff Knots fell just short in game 1 as they were narrowly defeated 67-64 in a game that was keenly contested from whistle to whistle. Thursday nights game 2 was slightly different as unlike game 1 where Hitters enjoyed the lead throughout and the late game heroics of SKABA legend Marty Huggins, the Tuff Knots reversed the table and in like manner they led throughout most if not all of the game and stepped up their play behind Co-Captains Clayton Powell and Noren Maynard.

The first half saw St.Pauls playing a seemingly inspired game as the Hitters defense seem not to have the answer for Tuff Knots forward Nasharn Maynard or the exceptional guard play of Clayton” Claybo” Powell. Powell saw his first taste of action in game 2 as he sat out game 1 due to suspension. It was quite obvious from the opening whistle that Hitters was not facing the same team they did in game 1. Claybo made a huge difference as he penetrated the Hitters defense almost at will . His penetration drew much attention and fouls thus putting the Hitters team in early foul trouble. This continued throughout the entire game as the Knots ended the first half up 41-33.

The Hitters made a series of runs in the second half to narrow the gap but the Knots were up to the task as they consistently kept the defending champions at bey. The final quarter saw Hitters once again making a short run precipated by the injection of Anthony “Jabal” Joseph who sparked a Hitters run in the 4th quarter. The Tuff Knots however were truly Tuff this evening as they played almost flawless basketball as they out-scored,out-rebounded and simply out-played a stunned Hitters who likely had their champagne already on ice in anticipation of yet another SKABA title. This may be somewhat delayed as the Tuff Knots showed that their presence in the finals is no fluke and they certainly handed it to Hitters as they won a every exciting 69-63 victory against the Tuff Knots. Nasharn Maynard led all scorers with 18 points and 16 rebounds for the Tuff Knots with teammates Clayton Powell and brother Noren Maynard combined for 24 points 10 rebounds and 9 assists. Hitters had just two players in double figures in Ansel Revan with 11 pts and David Dowell with 10.

The victory sets up a game 3 deciding match-up on Sunday 9th at Basketball City at 8pm where the St.Pauls Tuff Knots will be seeking their first SKABA National Title and the Hitters will be going for title number 18.

Courtsey of: stkittsbasketball.com

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TAIWAN

SBL opening day: Dacin ruins TB's glory day -by Chris Wang
In mid-Taiwan city of Taichung, backup forward Chen Tse-Wei (200-F-85) made a crucial three-pointers and Huang Chih-chun made one of two free-throws with 3.4 seconds to go as Dacin prevailed for a 66-63 victory and ruined the night which players of the defending champion Taiwan Beer received their championship rings from the CTBA President Wang Jen-da.

Tien Lei was off in the opening game but Dacin was able to lead by a msall margin for most of the game. Chen made two threes in the fourth quarter to help Dacin take a seven points lead with 1:27 remaining. Lin Chih-jay scred five straight points to cut the deficit to two but Huang's free-throw took the lead back to three.

Lin Chih-jay, who scored 18 in the game and was often the only player TB could count on in the game, was unable to get off his three-point shot as time expired.

Wu Dai-hao had an above-average performance in his first game as a Beerman, making all six of his shots and pulling down 8 rebounds.

In the other game, Cheng Chih-lung won his coaching debut after Taiwan Mobile's 79-63 win over Bank of Taiwan. Lee Wei-min scored 11 of his game-high 21 points in the 4th quarter for TM, which also received 19 points from Wu Yong-jen.

Dacin 66-63 TB
Dacin: Tien Lei 7p+9rb, Lee Fong-yong 14p, Wanh Chih-chun 13p
TB: Lin Chih-jay 18p+7rb+7a, Yang Chin-min 14p, Wu Dai-hao 13p+8rb+2blk

TM 79-63 BOT
TM: Lee Wei-min 21p, Wu Yong-jen 19p, Deng An-cheng 13p, Hsu Tse-shin 12p, Chen Huei 10a
BOT: Hsu Chi-chan 16p, Lin Chun-feng 11p, Chuan Hsiao-wen 11p

07-08 SBL Preview: Bank of Taiwan -by Chris Wang
-- Last season: 4-26, 7th in regular season.

-- Key additions: Hu Yu-wei (Taiwan Mobile), Lin Tsun-ching (Taiwan Mobile), Wu Fong-cheng (rookie)

-- Key subtractions: Yang Chin-min (TB), Yue Ying-li (Dacin), Ju Yong-hong (retired)

-- Key changes: Long-time assistant Lai Liang-chung finally replaced Wei Chen-min as head coach. Veteran Ju Yong-hong decided to retire and start his second career as an assitant coach on the team.

-- Analysis:

The poor gets poorer. It has always been like this for Bank of Taiwan, which once again lost its top two players Yang Chin-min and Yue Ying-li as both left and looked for greener pasture and higher salaries.

Sometimes it's funny when you think about this: this bank-backed team was always one of the small-budget teams and kept losing players.

Anyway, Wei Chen-min obviously wore out his welcome from the top last season, when BOT could went into a slump during a slump. It won only four games after a brilliant finish of the 2005-06 season, when it gave defending champ Yulon a scare in an epic four-game first round playoff series.

Chen Shun Hsiang (190-F-85) and Lin Chun-feng are expected to be the primary scoring options after the departure of Yang and Yue. Chen Shun Hsiang showed steady improvement last season and earned more playing time for his consistency. Lin Chun-feng, in my opinion, can be twice as good as he is right now if he plays hard all the time.

BOT selected the top pick Wu Fong-cheng, another smooth scoring forward, in the inaugural SBL Draft over the summer. It should take Wu one or two years before making substantial contributions.

BOT's offense was often unorganized, but the real problem will be its defense. Sometimes it could be described as non-exist because the team simply lacked of that defensive mentality.

The addition of Hu Yu-wei and Lin Tsun-ching could be a two-edge sword. Both are shooters, but BOT already had enough shooters on the wing in Chen and Lin.

The team will be thin in the middle after losing the tough guy Ju Yong-hong to retirement. Chou Ben-tang and Cheng An-jay have the height (both are 200cm tall) but too often looked like lost souls on the court. Which explains why sometimes the head coach opted for a smaller lineup.

The backcourt is interesting as Chien Ming-fu (163cm) and Lin Chih-long (listed at 172cm but closer to 170 in my opnion...) are probably the shortest backcourt tandem in the league. Both are lightning quick and can break down opposing defense. However, both can be out of control at times.

It's going to be another long and winding season for BOT. And if the team still operates with limited budget and fails to improve its defense dramatically, the future is not optmistic.

-- Roster:
2 Wu Fong-cheng F 1986.11.27 195
6 Chen Shun Hsiang F 1985.5.2 190
7 Chang Jun-hsuan F 1987.12.18 194
8 Lin Tsun-ching F 1986.4.22 188
9 Chuan Hsiao-wen F 1983.10.28 190
24 Lin Chun-feng F 1979.5.4 187
28 Hsu Chi-chan F 1982.10.30 194
72 Hu Yu-wei F 1983.3.13 190
15 Chou Ben-tang C 1978.9.16 200
88 Cheng An-jay C 1979.3.19 200
1 Chien Ming-fu G 1979.6.22 163
3 Lin Chih-long G 1983.12.2 172
20 Yuan Cheng-chan G 1985.3.28 180
33 Chen Shen-ya G 1983.4.20 185
68 Chang Bo-sheng G 1987.2.2 185

07-08 SBL Preview: dmedia Genies -by Chris Wang
-- Last season: 15-15, 5th in regular season.

-- Key additions: Sanders Jonathan (201-G-81, college: St.Mary's, CA) (Taiwan Mobile), Lin Kwan-lun (TB), Wu Jui-jin (TB), Chou Tse-hwa (Pure Youth), Yang Cheng-lun (rookie), Lin Yi-fu (rookie), Lee Jun-wei (rookie)

-- Key subtractions: Wu Dai-hao (TB), Yang Yu-min (Dacin), Hsu Tse-shin (Taiwan Mobile), Liao Wei-chen, Delvin Thomas

-- Key changes: ETSN sold the team to Segway Technology due to a financial crisis of its parent company. Segway Tech then placed the team under its affiliation company named dmedia. Former head coach Chiu Da-tsun signed with Dacin after the ownership change. Finally, veteran Wu Jian-kuo was hired to coach this young team.

-- Analysis:

Dmedia is another team which has experienced enormous perosnnel and management changes. The team's top inside and outside scoring option last season -- NT center Wu Dai-hao and scorer Yang Yu-min -- both left.

This is an extremely young team that more than half of the players were born after 1984. And they have a veteran coach Wu Jian-kuo who hasn't coached for a long time. It will be interesting to see how this group of "young and old" works together as the season moves along.

The key man will be 6-7 Sanders Jonathan, who finished second in last year's MVP voting and led Videoland to a dramatic regular season turnaround and a playoff berth. Sanders is a wing man in the U.S., but he is able to play all five positions in the SBL. And he will be asked to do so because this team will go as far as Sanders takes it.

Sanders, the only import player in the league, will mostly does his work in the paint both offensively and defensively. He can also pull down a rebound and goes coast to coast against smaller defenders.

Complementing Sanders will be Ouyang Jin-hen, Shin Jin-jan and Huang Bao-tse. Ouyang is a combo guard who hasn't lived up to his reputation since high school, but he is quick enough to do some damage and also has some perimeter game. Shin knows how to find ways to score and is often the primary defender on opponents' best scorers. Huang is an experienced point guard who knows how to direct an offense.

It will be good for the team if center Hong Ying-che improves his consistency and put his best effort into every minute, since he's the only legitimate center on the team other than Sanders.

Wu Jia-long is another experienced player who can help this team with his streaky shooting either starting or coming off the bench.

There are a couple players worth a watch though. Dmedia managed to sign the best point guards in two consecutive high school classes -- Chou Tse-hwa and Yang Cheng-lun. It'll be interesting to see how Wu Jian-kuo works these two kids into the rotation and develops their skills.

For now, however, Lin Kwan-lun will be the designated starting point guard. It sounds weird to me because, as far as I can remember, Lin has never handled the position throughout his entire career, including the high school days. Moreover, he had a reputation as someone who always looks for his own shot first.

Dmedia did play well in the exhibition games, showing great speed and tenacity with Sanders operating on both ends of the floor. But the regular season will be a different story. It will be a big big surprise if the Genies somehow challenge the final playoff seed.

-- Roster:
1 Huang Ju-dao F 1982.9.4 195
7 Ouyang Jin-hen G 1979.10.28 191
12 Cheng Jen-wei F 1987.4.6 194
14 Shin Jin-jan F/G 1979.9.12 190
18 Chang Min-che F 1984.6.20 190
22 Wu Jui-jin F 1981.1.21 195
27 Hsiao Yuan-chan F 1984.11.3 195
95 Chen Jin-hwan G 1986.2.3 190
13 Lee Jun-wei C 1988.10.17 199
21 Hong Ying-che C 1986.1.6 198
32 Sanders Jonathan F/C 1981.9.23 200
6 Huang Bao-tse G 1976.9.18 181
9 Chou Tse-hwa G 1987.10.4 183
10 Wang Nan-kuei G 1983.5.21 180
15 Lin Yi-fu G 1988.12.22 186
17 Yang Cheng-lun G 1989.1.18 177
24 Lin Kwan-lun G 1984.1.23 187
98 Wu Jia-long G 1979.3.23 185

07-08 SBL Preview: Pure Youth -by Chris Wang
-- Last season: 7-23, 6th in regular season.

-- Key additions: Chen Jun-chieh, Cheng Chi-hao, Doug Creighton (rookie)

-- Key subtractions: Lin Hwan-chao (Yulon), Liu Yi-hsiang (retired), Chou Tse-hwa (dmedia)

-- Key changes: Daniel Chiang, former owner of the team, claimed he handed the team to Pure Youth Construction Company for nothing in return, although some people were suspicious. In the end of the day, the team changed its name for the third time in three years (Sina, then YMY, then Azio).

-- Analysis:

As bad as Pure Youth, which was known as Azio Eagles, was last season, it exceeded expectation with seven wins, believe it or not. The team chose to keep Hsu Chin-tse as head coach and should try to build on that "momentum" this year to be the best it can be.

Meanwhile, the team maintained its policy of not hiring any import player to keep its budget down. It has an alternative way of hiring non-local players though.

196cm James Mao, a U.S.-born Taiwanese from Texas, will be the a local player after receiving the Taiwanese ID and Doug Creighton (195cm), another U.S.-born Taiwanese from Detroit, will be the "designated import" this season.

Mao will a versatile player who can play several positions, including poing guard, small forward and some four. If he improves his perimeter game, Mao will be able to play the off guard as well and makes himself an integral part of the team.

Another important player will be Chien Jia-Hong (196-F/C-87), the primary inside force although he's only 196cm tall. Chien makes up his height disadvantage with hustle and positioning. He should be able to be a consistent double-double contributor.

Wu Jian-long is the same type of player -- an undersized center/forward who works hard in the paint.

Hsu Chin-tse is expected to rely on players he has been familiar with during the days when he coached the Tsaishin High School. Which means Zuo Tsun-kai, Chen Shi-jay and Hong Chi-shan will have a lot of playing time.

Athletic wing Chang Yu-lin is an interesting player to watch. Chang is primairily a slasher who uses his outstanding first step and occassional threes to change the momentum of the game as a X-factor. The problem is his consistency.

Newcomer Chen Jun-jay is a combo guard in the university league. What he can do in this level remains to be seen.

Other than that, most of the players are unproven and will have a hard time finding a spot on the other teams. For Pure Youth, it will not be easy to surpass last season's win total.

-- Roster:
1 Zuo Tsun-kai F/G 1986.9.15 190
10 Chen Chuan-hsu F 1982.5.5 188
11 Doug Creighton F 1985.3.7 195
14 Tsai Wen-cheng F 1985.5.31 188
16 Hsu Shi-ching F 1984.11.1 192
19 Lin Jin-bang F 1985.6.15 190
21 Huang Chi-feng F 1984.3.12 192
23 Chang Yu-lin F 1986.1.16 192
31 James Mao F/G 1982.11.16 196
33 Wu Jian-long C/F 1988.9.5 193
91 Kao Li-min F 1979.12.2 194
15 Cheng Chi-hao C 1987.12.10 208
17 Chien Jia-Hong C 1987.3.6 196
5 Hong Chi-shan G 1985.7.5 176
6 Chen Shi-jay G 1984.9.24 176
25 Chen Jun-jay G 1983.6.4 184

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UKRAINE

Superleague Game-Day 10 Preview -by Alexei Naumov
10 matches are scheduled in the Ukrainian Superleague action on Saturday (5 first teams and 5 farm teams), with perhaps the most exciting to be played in Cherkassy, where visiting BC Kyiv will try to preserve their perfect league record.

Kyiv won a home game against Dnipro a week ago 80:72, also beating German side Dragons 87:66 in the ULEB Cup on Tuesday. Their leading scorer in the Superleague is Manuchar Markoishvili with 12.7 points per game. He was named November player of the month by the Bolelshik newspaper. Pooh Jeter has been averaging 12.2 points per game, Artur Drozdov has been adding 11.4 points and 4.6 rebounds.

Last week Cherkassy lost to Azovmash 86:94 and will be looking to recover in front of the home crowd. Fadi El Khatib is both the team's and the league's top scorer with 16.6 points, adding 5.5 rebounds per game. John Edwards posted an impressive double-double against Mariupol - 19 points and 17 boards and now averages 14.5 points and 12.5 rebounds in two league matches.

The rest of the Saturday's games will feature:

Azovmash - Khimik
Pulsar - Sumykhimprom
Dnipro - Politechnika Galychina
Mykolaiv - Odessa

Budivelnik will host Kryvbassbasket on Sunday.

All livescores, game logs, stats, game-reports and photos will be available on the Official website of the Ukrainian Basketball federation.

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Women News

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AUSTRALIA - Women

The Sirens come from behind to upset the Capitals in overtime -by Eurobasket News
The WNBL newcomers continue to pile up historic victories. Today they added another victim to their list after they edged the reigning champs Canberra Capitals in thriller. The lead changed hands for 9 times in the opening frame before Tracey Beatty (202-C-79) and Natalie Hurst (163-G-83) put the Capitals in front 18:15. The Capitals started the second term with a 6:0 to enlarge the lead and continued to mount pressure. Jessica Bibby (169-G-79) and Natalie Hurst soon put the Capitals up by 10 points 33:23. But Noni Wharemate (171-G-82, college: UTEP) and Natalie Purcell (183-F-82, college: SE Missouri St.) combined 5 straight points to cut the gap to 4 points at halftime 28:32. Abby Bishop (189-C-88) scored quick 4 points for Canberra early in the third term to restore a 6-point margin but Ashley Awkward (168-G-85, college: Mississippi) answered with 6 points, while Noni Wharemate added a jumper as the Sirens regained the lead midway through the period. However Crista Hays (188-C-80) capped the third stanza with a jump shot to make it 48:46 for Canberra. The teams exchanged the blows throughout the whole fourth period before Tracy Breatty scored a jump shot with 2 seconds remaining and forced overtime. Donna Wilkins hit a free throw to give the lead to the Sirens but Abby Bishop quickly matched with her own one and later Jessica Bibby added two more free throws to ensure a 70:68 advantage for the Capitals. But Noni Wharemate brought the victory to Christchurch. She first knocked down a jumper and then sealed the win from charity stripe. Natalie Hurst tried to save the day for the Capitals but her potential winner missed the mark.
Lamisha Augustine (186-F-82, agency: LBM Management, college: San Jose St.) paced the winners with 17 points and 9 boards. Donna Wilkins scored 12 points and pulled down 14 boards, while Noni Wharemate and Antonia Edmondson produced 10 points apiece in the 5th win for the Sirens. Natalie Hurst had 19 points for Canberra. Tracey Beatty delivered 16 points in a losing effort. Christchurch improved to 5-9 record and would take on Perth at home next.
Meanwhile Donna Wilkins announced she would not play for NZ Tall Ferns in the Beijing next year. She explained that she can not guarantee her 100% readiness for the Olympic Games and it should not be the case when you go to this kind of tournament. This means that Tall Ferns will be with only two players that participated in Athens Olympiad - Aneka Kerr (183-F-81) and Angela Marino (166-G-86).

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BELGIUM - Women

CAB Madeira wins over Novia as two teams are 1-4 in EuroCup -by Eurobasket News

CAB Madeira -Novia Munalux Namur 67:43 (23-7, 12-14, 10-9, 22-13)

CAB Madeira as well as Ukrainian Dnipro and German Wasserburg celebrated the first win in EuroCup in Round 5. Portuguese team overcame Novia Munalux Namur 67:43 to tie them at 1-4. Hutcheson led the winners with 22 points and 13 rebounds. Kerri Gardin (186-F-84, college: Virginia Tech) collected 16 points and 20 rebounds, while Silva scored 13. Stephanie Dubuc (175-F/G-85) top-scored for the Belgian team with 14 points.

CAB Madeira met tough defense with more of its own and solidified its position from the bottom of Group K. CAB Madeira and Novia Munalux Namur are tied for third now, but could not move up for the second place.
The first quarter was a good start for the hosts who made 10:2 and then 20:4 margin. Kerri Gardin closed the first at 23:7 for the Portugal team. Even though Novia reduced a bit in the second Hutcheson sent the teams to the lockers with 35:21. A defensive third quarter brought 10:9 for the hosts and 45:30 as a total. Stephanie Dubuc cut the margin to 12 points, but then CAB Madeira pushed the tempo to win the first game.

The next games are planned for December 12/13. Both teams will play their games with two top teams from the group.

CAB Madeira: Hutcheson 22+13 rebs, Kerri Gardin 16+20 rebs, Silva 13
Novia Munalux Namur: Stephanie Dubuc 14, Michele Decors (190-F/C-83) 13

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CROATIA - Women

Gorzow edges Gospic for the first place in Group F -by Eurobasket News
KSSSE AZS-PWSZ Gorzow - Gospic 92:66 (23-16, 20-22, 28-13, 21-15)

Gorzow and Gospic struggled in Group F of EuroCup for the first position. Polish team having around 1000 spectators had a great support by them winning 92:66. Justyna Zurowska (188-C-85) paced all the winners with 19 points. Christelle N'Garsanet (191-C-83, agency: Merit Sports, college: Missouri) netted 18, while Agnieszka Szott (186-F-82) scored 17. Mirjana Tabak (182-F-72) chipped in for the visitors with 16 points.

Six consecutive points saw Gorzow Wielkopolski in the opening tip of the game. Their team played much better and deserved 9 points lead after the first 10 minutes of the game. Moore with a lay-up made it 23;16 for the hosts. Gospic played better in the second quarter but could not tie the score. Mazic cut the deficit to 3 points but then Agnieszka Szott sent the teams to the lockers with 43:38.
A 8-0 run in the middle of the third gave the Polish squad control for the whole game. Ristic's lay up gave her team 71:51 after 3rd. Another 9-0 run in the last quarter ruined the Croatian team. KSSSE AZS-PWSZ Gorzow nailed 92 points in the game and easily overcame the opponent.

KSSSE AZS-PWSZ Gorzow: Justyna Zurowska 19, Christelle N'Garsanet 18, Agnieszka Szott 17
Gospic: Mirjana Tabak 16, Katarina Maloca (190-F/C-75) 14

Jolly JBS Sibenik lost in Croatia -by Eurobasket News
Jolly JBS Sibenik - USK Prague 62:71 (13-16, 17-14, 17-22, 15-19)

Jolly JBS Sibenik had a chance to go on the second place of Euroleague, Group B in case of win. USK Prague did not allow them to take the victory and stole 62:71 road game. The visitors enjoyed the second half that brought them 9 points advantage. Jannell Burse (197-C-79, college: Tulane) led the winners with 16 points and rebounds. Lindsay Whalen (173-G-82, college: Minnesota) followed her with 15, while Elena Karpova (188-F-80) and Mokrosova nailed 9 each. Jessica Dickson (180-F-84, college: S.Florida) finished the night with 22 points in the losing effort.

USK Prague did not mind 400 spectators who came to support in Croatia. A 13:16 in the opening quarter gave them some confidence to dominate. Jolly JBS Sibenik replied with 17:14 and left the scores knotted at 30:30.
The second half belonged to the visitors. A 17:22 in the third brought them five points advantage after 30 minutes of the thriller. Another 15:19 in the last and the game was over at 62:71.
USK Prague showed better percentage in all the categories including field goals (42.1% vs 41%), three-pointers (50.0% vs 22.2%) and free throws (66.7% vs 52.2%). The next game Croatian team will play on December 12th against French Bourges.

Jolly JBS Sibenik: Jessica Dickson 22, Tihana Juric (194-C-76) 20, Jelavic 12
USK Prague: Jannell Burse 16+7 rebs, Lindsay Whalen 15, Elena Karpova 9, Mokrosova 9

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CYPRUS - Women

Young is too good for AEL -by Eurobasket News
Galatasaray -K.V. Imperial AEL 74:64

AEL lost the third game in EuroCup campaign last night. In the game versus Turkish Galatasaray the team had nothing to do but to accept the loss as Sophia Young (186-F-83, college: Baylor) shined for the hosts. She nailed 32 points to lead the winners to 4-1. Sebnem Nezahat Kimyacioglu (182-F-83, college: Stanford) posted 19, while Petra Ujhelyi (192-C-80, college: S.Carolina) collected 8 points and 13 rebounds. Betty Lennox (172-G-76, college: Louisiana Tech) top-scored for the team from Cyprus with 22 points.

An amazing personal streak by Sophia Young lifted Turkish team on top of the group. Despite a fast start by AEL, Galatasaray looked better in the entire game and was the favorite even before it. Sebnem Nezahat Kimyacioglu started contributing for the hosts from the very beginning.

Even though the teams showed an appropriate percentage from the field, their three-pointers could be much better. AEK made 4 out 18 far shots, while Galatasaray was even worse, 2 out of 15. It was Stoenescu for AEK who made 10 attempts and made 2 of them. The next game AEK will play on December 13th against Elizur from Israel. In another game ofthe group Dnipro sensationally overcame Elizur and improved to 1-4. Two players led Dnipro nailing 42 points together.

Galatasaray: Sophia Young 32, Sebnem Nezahat Kimyacioglu 19, Petra Ujhelyi 8+13 rebs
K.V. Imperial AEL: Betty Lennox 22, Anna Grabias (183-G-82, college: Richmond) 12

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CZECH REP. - Women

Two wins in two games. Why do we need more? -by Eurobasket News
Two Czech teams celebrated the wins in Round 5 of Euroleague. An outstanding result can not go away from writing.

USK Prague did not allow Jolly JBS Sibenik to take the home victory and stole 62:71 road game. The visitors enjoyed the second half that brought them 9 points advantage. Jannell Burse (197-C-79, college: Tulane) led the winners with 16 points and rebounds. Lindsay Whalen (173-G-82, college: Minnesota) followed her with 15, while Elena Karpova and Mokrosova nailed 9 each. Jessica Dickson (180-F-84, college: S.Florida) finished the night with 22 points in the losing effort.
USK Prague did not mind 400 spectators who came to support in Croatia. A 13:16 in the opening quarter gave them some confidence to dominate. Jolly JBS Sibenik replied with 17:14 and left the scores knotted at 30:30.The second half belonged to the visitors. A 17:22 in the third brought them five points advantage after 30 minutes of the thriller. Another 15:19 in the last and the game was over at 62:71.
USK Prague showed better percentage in all the categories including field goals (42.1% vs 41%), three-pointers (50.0% vs 22.2%) and free throws (66.7% vs 52.2%). The next game Croatian team will play on December 12th against French Bourges.

Belgian powerhouse Dexia were unable to challenge Gambrinus as they travelled to Czech Republic in the 5th round of FIBA Euroleague. Gambrinus were coming out of a stunning loss to Spartak Moscow Region but it never affected their attitude as they got back on track pretty easily and trashed Dexia in Brno. It became the 4th loss for Belgian franchise and slipped to 1-4 record at the bottom of Group C ladder. Gambrinus remained on top with 4-1 record. Gambrinus entered the game aggressively and claimed an 8:0 lead 2 minutes into it. Finally Cathrine Kraayeveld (193-F-81, agency: LBM Management, college: Oregon) nailed the initial basket for the visitors but they trailed by as many as 8 points at the end of the first quarter 11:19. The margin grew unmistakably for the hosts in the second period and reached a 21-point mark after consecutive triples from Eva Viteckova (190-F-82) late in the first half. Dexia were pretty consistent offensively but their defense needed much to be improved. Gambrinus had little problems penetrating and breaking the defensive walls of Belgian team as they piled up a 68:44 cushion after three quarters of action. The offensive show continued in the final term as the visitors' defense collapsed and Gambrinus drove to an overall victory. Hana Machova (182-F/G-79) and Eva Viteckova produced 19 points apiece for Brno. Zuzana Zirkova nailed 15 points and grabbed 5 boards for the winners. Jennifer Fleischer (191-C-84, agency: LBM Management, college: Pennsylvania) netted 13 points for Dexia. Cathrine Kraayeveld had 12 points, while Kim Smith added 11 points in a loss.
Dexia will seek for the second win at the tournament as they take on USVO Valenciennes in France next round. Gambrinus plays against Lotos in Gdynia.

Jolly JBS Sibenik - USK Prague 62:71
Jolly JBS Sibenik: Jessica Dickson 22, Tihana Juric 20, Jelavic 12
USK Prague: Jannell Burse 16+7 rebs, Lindsay Whalen 15, Elena Karpova 9, Mokrosova 9

Gambrinus - Dexia Namur 93:66
Gambrinus: Hana Machova 19, Eva Viteckova 19, Zuzana Zirkova 15
Dexia: Jennifer Fleischer 13, Cathrine Kraayeveld 12, Kim Smith 11

CCC Polkowice leaves Kara Trutnov on bottom -by Eurobasket News
CCC Polkowice - Kara Trutnov 73:60 (20-13, 13-15, 24-17, 16-15)

Polish CCC Polkowice enjoyed 6-0 from the beginning of the game versus Kara Trutnov and led the game to 73:60 victory. Group G of EuroCup sees the Polish team with 4-1 record, while Kara Trutnov is vice-versa. Petra Stampalija (190-C-80) led Polish team with 19 points and 10 rebounds. Ilona Jasnowska (184-F-69) followed her with 13, while three other players had 11. Julija Karavaeva (193-F-82) chipped in 17 points in the losing effort.

First six points belonged to the hosts in the game as well as 12-2 run in the opening tip. Gajewska's jump-shot finished the first quarter at 20:13. Kara Trutnov started to return to the game and produced 13:15 in the second. Julija Karavaeva's free throw showed 33:28 in the board before break.
A 24:17 in the third quarter was beneficial for the hosts. Szycko's three made the score 57:45 after thirty minutes of the game. There was no time when the spectator could think of another winning team in the last quarter. CCC Polkowice won it as well 16:15 and reached 4-1 record in the group. Kara Trutnov is 1-4 and hopes to leave the last spot in the last game.

CCC Polkowice: Petra Stampalija 19+10 rebs, Ilona Jasnowska 13
Kara Trutnov: Julija Karavaeva 17, Katerina Zohnova (179-F-84) 10

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EUROCUP (W) - Women

Round 5 latest results and stats -by Eurobasket News

Zala Volan ZTE -Kozachka-Zalk 55:71 (16-20, 9-19, 12-15, 18-17)

Kozachka-Zalk is back on track after two losses. The team overcame Zala Volan ZTE in Hungary 55:71. Olena Fenko (187-F-76) led the winners with 18 points and 7 rebounds. Natalia Isachenko (183-G-79) and Svitlana Kozachenko (180-G-74) netted 13 points each to move up the Ukrainian team to 3-2 record. Nikolett Turoczi (187-F/C-80) top-scored for the hosts with 16 points.

Five straight points were scored by Ukrainian side in the opening tip of the game. Svitlana Kozachenko made a lay-up in the end of the first quarter to give her team 16:20 advantage. Right in the beginning of the second Kozachka started to increase the lead and had 14 points margin at the half. Pazyuk nailed a three pointer as her team grabbed 25:39 score.
It was Pazyuk again to bring the visitors the biggest +19 lead in the middle of the third. Olena Fenko made sure that Kozachka was in front with 37:54 after 3rd. When the top-scorer made 51:71 the answer for the winner was clear. Hungarian team reduced to 55:71 but that was not enough for the total score. The host fell at 1-4 in the group and share the bottom with the Swiss team.

Zala Volan ZTE: Nikolett Turoczi 16, Molly Creamer (177-G-81, agency: LBM Management, college: Bucknell) 11
Kozachka-Zalk: Olena Fenko 18+7 rebs, Natalia Isachenko 13+8 rebs, Svitlana Kozachenko 13

Dnipro - Elitzur Ramla 71:67 (15-25, 16-16, 21-14, 19-12)

Ukrainian Dnipro celebrated the first victory in EuroCup this season. An excellent comeback in the second half lifted Dnipro over Elitzur Ramla 71:67. Anna Pokoiova (188-F-87) paced the winners with 23 points. Jillian Robbins (185-F-84, agency: LBM Management, college: Tulsa) collected 19 points and 9 rebounds, while Oksana Kisilova (187-F-88) and Lyashkova scored 8 each. Tangela Smith (193-F/C-77, college: Iowa) had a very good game for the visitors nailing 28 points and making 11 boards.

A first win and a desired one! The start was not a key point for the Ukrainian side that missed 15:25 in the opening quarter. Israeli team had even bigger lead, but Matvyeyeva reduced to 10. The disaster saw Ukrainian side in the middle of the second when Abramzon made 21:41. Dnipro replied with 10-0 run to reduce to 31:41 at the half.
The run continued also in the third quarter and reached 14-0 at that time. In the end of the quarter Dnipro stayed 52:55 behind. Anna Pokoiova's five points in a row first tied the game and then brought her team 62:59. The team was on fire and did not allow the guests to steal such a desirable win.

Dnipro: Anna Pokoiova 23, Jillian Robbins 19+9 rebs, Oksana Kisilova 8, Lyashkova 8
Elitzur Ramla: Tangela Smith 28+11 rebs, Laine Selwyn (170-G-81, college: Pittsburgh) 13

MBK Ruzomberok -Universite BC Neuchâtel 73:70 (19-18, 12-15, 25-22, 17-15)
MBK Ruzomberok improved to 5-0 after a tough victory over Universite BC Neuchâtel 73:70. A funny first ten points from the hosts were replied with 11 from the guests in the opening tip. Regina Palusna (192-C-89) led the winners with 17 points and 13 rebounds. Lucia Kupcikova (184-F-84) and Simona Podesvova (186-F-83) followed her with 14 points each and grabbed 25 boards for two. Cameo Hicks (178-G-84, agency: LBM Management, college: Washington) ended up with 24 points and 5 rebounds for the visitors.

A 10-0 run was the start of the fifth game for the Slovak team. Universite BC Neuchâtel however waited for some time and replied with 11-0 to take 10:11 lead. In a wild first quarter MBK Ruzomberok had 19:18 advantage. Sophie Charlier (180-G-82, agency: LBM Management)'s three pointer gave the guests plus five in the beginning of the second. Wilkins kept them in front at 31:33 half time.
In a back-to-back third quarter Regina Palusna gave Ruzomberok 56:55 deficit. Universite BC Neuchâtel led for nine minuites of the last quarter, but then saw a loss in the last seconds of it. Wilson's five points in a row brought the 5th win for the favorites. Slovak team remains undefeated in the tournament, while Universite BC Neuchâtel falls at 1-4.

MBK Ruzomberok: Regina Palusna 17+13 rebs, Lucia Kupcikova 14+11 rebs, Simona Podesvova 14+14 rebs
Universite BC Neuchâtel: Cameo Hicks 24+5 rebs, Sophie Charlier 19

Galatasaray -K.V. Imperial AEL 74:64
AEL lost the third game in EuroCup campaign last night. In the game versus Turkish Galatasaray the team had nothing to do but to accept the loss as Sophia Young (186-F-83, college: Baylor) shined for the hosts. She nailed 32 points to lead the winners to 4-1. Sebnem Nezahat Kimyacioglu (182-F-83, college: Stanford) posted 19, while Petra Ujhelyi (192-C-80, college: S.Carolina) collected 8 points and 13 rebounds. Betty Lennox (172-G-76, college: Louisiana Tech) top-scored for the team from Cyprus with 22 points.

An amazing personal streak by Sophia Young lifted Turkish team on top of the group. Despite a fast start by AEL, Galatasaray looked better in the entire game and was the favorite even before it. Sebnem Nezahat Kimyacioglu started contributing for the hosts from the very beginning.

Even though the teams showed an appropriate percentage from the field, their three-pointers could be much better. AEK made 4 out 18 far shots, while Galatasaray was even worse, 2 out of 15. It was Stoenescu for AEK who made 10 attempts and made 2 of them. The next game AEK will play on December 13th against Elizur from Israel. In another game ofthe group Dnipro sensationally overcame Elizur and improved to 1-4. Two players led Dnipro nailing 42 points together.

Galatasaray: Sophia Young 32, Sebnem Nezahat Kimyacioglu 19, Petra Ujhelyi 8+13 rebs
K.V. Imperial AEL: Betty Lennox 22, Anna Grabias (183-G-82, college: Richmond) 12

Pankup TED Koleji - Arad 76:67 (24-15, 17-23, 15-17, 20-12)
Pankup TED Koleji overcame Arad 76:67 in the game for the second place in Group B of EuroCup. A confident start and the end of the game brought such an expected result for the hosts. Monique Coker (188-F-82, college: ODU) led the winners with 19 points and 8 rebounds. Jacqueline Moore (189-C-79, college: Long Beach St.) collected 16 points and made 10 boards, while Stanoeva added 13. Sheena Moore top-scored for the Romanian team with 20 points.

Ozkan was very active in the first minutes of the game to score five points in a 7-2 run. Metin's three closed the opening quarter at 24:15. In the second quarter Sunter brought her team 10 points deficit after a lay-up made. Dragana Zoric (178-F-78, agency: LBM Management) led her team back on track as the visitors reduced to 34:33. Pankup TED Koleji kept the score for good at the half time, 41:38.
In the beginning of the third quarter the hosts increased to 10 points again, but then Arad closed the gap and felt the taste of the lead. Pavel made the score 53:55 with a minute to play in the third. Daricioglu's three brought back the Turkish side in front. The hosts made a 6-0 run in the fourth and led the game to 76:67 victory.

Pankup TED Koleji: Monique Coker 19+8 rebs, Jacqueline Moore 16+10 rebs, Stanoeva 13
Arad: Sheena Moore 20, Dragana Zoric 14+8 rebs

KSSSE AZS-PWSZ Gorzow - Gospic 92:66 (23-16, 20-22, 28-13, 21-15)
Gorzow and Gospic struggled in Group F of EuroCup for the first position. Polish team having around 1000 spectators had a great support by them winning 92:66. Justyna Zurowska (188-C-85) paced all the winners with 19 points. Christelle N'Garsanet (191-C-83, agency: Merit Sports, college: Missouri) netted 18, while Agnieszka Szott (186-F-82) scored 17. Mirjana Tabak (182-F-72) chipped in for the visitors with 16 points.

Six consecutive points saw Gorzow Wielkopolski in the opening tip of the game. Their team played much better and deserved 9 points lead after the first 10 minutes of the game. Moore with a lay-up made it 23;16 for the hosts. Gospic played better in the second quarter but could not tie the score. Mazic cut the deficit to 3 points but then Agnieszka Szott sent the teams to the lockers with 43:38.
A 8-0 run in the middle of the third gave the Polish squad control for the whole game. Ristic's lay up gave her team 71:51 after 3rd. Another 9-0 run in the last quarter ruined the Croatian team. KSSSE AZS-PWSZ Gorzow nailed 92 points in the game and easily overcame the opponent.

KSSSE AZS-PWSZ Gorzow: Justyna Zurowska 19, Christelle N'Garsanet 18, Agnieszka Szott 17
Gospic: Mirjana Tabak 16, Katarina Maloca (190-F/C-75) 14

TSV Wasserburg - Szeviep 83:82 (27-15, 19-24, 20-19, 17-24)

Wasserburg celebrated the first win in EuroCup this season. In a home thriller against Szeviep the German powerhouse won 83:82. As a result 27:15 was almost enough after the opening quarter. Amanda Lassiter (186-F-79, college: Missouri) paced the winners with 24 points. Katrina Hibbert (180-G/F-77, college: LSU) netted 14, while Diana Adela Pop (175-G-71) collected 13 points, 7 rebounds and 8 assists. Milena Tomova (191-F-82, college: Florida Intern.) chipped in 32 points in the losing effort. TSV Wasserburg improved to 1-4, while Szeviep is 2-3.
The hosts opened the game with 7-0 run and it was noticeable how hard the team can do in order to win for the first time. Wasserburg led to 27:15 after the first 10 minutes in a great beginning of it. The second quarter had another scenario and Ivelina Vrantcheva (175-G-82) reduced to 34;32 in the end of it. The teams however went to the lockers with 46:39 at the half time.
Amanda Lassiter made plus 14 in the third quarter in a 20:19 victory. It did not seem that the visitors would be able to catch up as TSV Wasserburg still had 10 points with 5 minutes remaining. A 7-0 run by the Hungarian team however brought an intrigue in the final seconds. Ivelina Vrantcheva tied the score at 82:82 when German team was frustrated. Luckily for the hosts Diana Adela Pop's free throw was enough to taste the Victory of EuroCup.

TSV Wasserburg: Amanda Lassiter 24, Katrina Hibbert 14, Diana Adela Pop 13+7 rebs+8 ast
Szeviep: Milena Tomova 32, Ivelina Vrantcheva 16, Judit Kajdacsi (191-C-79) 15+13 rebs

CCC Polkowice - Kara Trutnov 73:60 (20-13, 13-15, 24-17, 16-15)
Polish CCC Polkowice enjoyed 6-0 from the beginning of the game versus Kara Trutnov and led the game to 73:60 victory. Group G of EuroCup sees the Polish team with 4-1 record, while Kara Trutnov is vice-versa. Petra Stampalija (190-C-80) led Polish team with 19 points and 10 rebounds. Ilona Jasnowska (184-F-69) followed her with 13, while three other players had 11. Julija Karavaeva (193-F-82) chipped in 17 points in the losing effort.

First six points belonged to the hosts in the game as well as 12-2 run in the opening tip. Gajewska's jump-shot finished the first quarter at 20:13. Kara Trutnov started to return to the game and produced 13:15 in the second. Julija Karavaeva's free throw showed 33:28 in the board before break.
A 24:17 in the third quarter was beneficial for the hosts. Szycko's three made the score 57:45 after thirty minutes of the game. There was no time when the spectator could think of another winning team in the last quarter. CCC Polkowice won it as well 16:15 and reached 4-1 record in the group. Kara Trutnov is 1-4 and hopes to leave the last spot in the last game.

CCC Polkowice: Petra Stampalija 19+10 rebs, Ilona Jasnowska 13
Kara Trutnov: Julija Karavaeva 17, Katerina Zohnova (179-F-84) 10

O8 Stockholm HR- Gran Canaria 68:71 (17-18, 25-22, 8-18, 18-13)
O8 Stockholm HR lost another close game that they could win. In the capital of Sweden O8 Stockholm HR was upset by the favorite of Group H Gran Canaria 68:71. Roneeka Hodges (180-G-82, college: Florida St.) paced the winners with 24 points. Rodriguez netted 17, while Taru Tuukkanen (190-C-77, college: Xavier) collected 13 points and 15 rebounds. Jennie Thingwall (183-F-85) produced 22 points and 8 rebounds in defeat.
Jennie Thingwall was happy to nail the first four points of the game as her team enjoyed the lead in the opening tip. Gran Canaria woke up immediately and Roneeka Hodges closed the quarter at 17:18. In a very offensive second quarter Swedish squad was stronger and grabbed the advantage at the half, 42:40.
The third quarter belonged to the visitors who maintained the lead. Taru Tuukkanen closed a 5-0 run to take 50:58 for the Spanish squad. The game was not over and O8 Stockholm HR returned to the last quarter with 8-0 run to minimize at 58:60. Petillon gave the hosts 68:67 with a bit than a minute to play, but the Swedish representative did not hold the score for good. Montesdeoca and Rodriguez free throws sent 08 to 1-4. Gran Canaria enjoys the group being undefeated.

O8 Stockholm HR: Jennie Thingwall 22+8 rebs, Jocelyn Penn (186-F-79, agency: Merit Sports, college: USC) 13+9 rebs, Gernandt 12
Gran Canaria: Roneeka Hodges 24, Rodriguez 17, Taru Tuukkanen 13+15 rebs

Rhondda Rebels - Hondarribia-Irun 64:89 (17-20, 13-24, 16-23, 18-19)
A better game than two previous saw Tylorstown that is in Wales. Rhondda Rebels lost the fifth game in EuroCup, but showed a good game against Hondarribia-Irun 64:89. Shameka Christon (186-G/F-82, college: Arkansas) led the winners with 22 points. Zane Tamane (194-C-83, college: W.Illinois) netted 16, while Liene Jansone (190-F/C-81, college: Siena) added 14. LaNedra Brown (188-C-81, agency: LBM Management, college: Seton Hall) as usual top-scored for the hosts with 20 points.

After the visitors started with 0-4 in the opening tip, the spectators thought of another smash. Rhondda Rebels however did not fall down and reduced to 14:15 in the middle of the first. Yea still kept Rhondda Rebels in game, 17:20 after the first. The second quarter was the most horrible for the underdogs that failed 13:24 in it. Hondarribia-Irun enjoyed 30:44 at the half time.
Zane Tamane made the advantage for plus 20, digging 42:62. Suarez from the arc demolished the hosts with 46:67 after thirty minutes. Hondarribia-Irun kept the score for good and proved it in another quarter 18:19. The Spanish squad improved to 3-2 in Group J.

Rhondda Rebels: LaNedra Brown 20, Kirby Copeland (178-G-85, college: Virginia Tech) 17
Hondarribia-Irun: Shameka Christon 22, Zane Tamane 16+9 rebs, Liene Jansone 14

EXMA-Baloncesto San Jose 60:84 (21-19, 14-22, 10-19, 15-24)
EXMA lost the fifth game of EuroCup being defeated by Baloncesto San Jose 60:84. A 21:19 in the opening quarter was a great start, however the hosts could not stay in front. Allison Feaster (181-F-76, college: Harvard)-Strong led the winners with 14 points. Revuelto Sanchez Aguilera chipped in 12, while Murriel Page (190-C-75, college: Florida) scored 11. Catherine Scanlon (180-G/F-83, college: Drexel) top-scored with 25 points and 9 rebounds in defeat.

Catherine Scanlon opened the game from the arc to see her team grabbed the first lead. It was not the last as the hosts stayed in front after the first 10 minutes, 21:19. Another 24:22 and 26:24, but then the team from Luxembourg stopped. San Jose took a chance to lead the game before the second half, 35:41.
A good defense and some easy baskets lifted Baloncesto San Jose to 10:19 in the third. Murriel Page was the last to score for her team as the guests had 45:60 advantage. The last quarter was the offensive game as there was no need to struggle. Spanish squad grabs 60:84 victory to improve to 2-3.

EXMA: Catherine Scanlon 25+9 rebs, Rachel Wojdowski (179-G/F-82, agency: LBM Management) 10, Ranela Skegro (187-F/C-71) 10
Baloncesto San Jose: Allison Feaster14, Revuelto Sanchez Aguilera 12, Murriel Page 11

CAB Madeira -Novia Munalux Namur 67:43 (23-7, 12-14, 10-9, 22-13)
CAB Madeira as well as Ukrainian Dnipro and German Wasserburg celebrated the first win in EuroCup in Round 5. Portuguese team overcame Novia Munalux Namur 67:43 to tie them at 1-4. Hutcheson led the winners with 22 points and 13 rebounds. Kerri Gardin (186-F-84, college: Virginia Tech) collected 16 points and 20 rebounds, while Silva scored 13. Stephanie Dubuc (175-F/G-85) top-scored for the Belgian team with 14 points.

CAB Madeira met tough defense with more of its own and solidified its position from the bottom of Group K. CAB Madeira and Novia Munalux Namur are tied for third now, but could not move up for the second place.
The first quarter was a good start for the hosts who made 10:2 and then 20:4 margin. Kerri Gardin closed the first at 23:7 for the Portugal team. Even though Novia reduced a bit in the second Hutcheson sent the teams to the lockers with 35:21. A defensive third quarter brought 10:9 for the hosts and 45:30 as a total. Stephanie Dubuc cut the margin to 12 points, but then CAB Madeira pushed the tempo to win the first game.

Italians in Eurocup day-5 -by Carlo Grilli
In group H, Parma stretched out the losing streak to 5 games, that costs elimination from Eurocup. This time Aix-en-Provence posted a 76-60 victory: Mahoney (18+9) and Laurence Van Malderen (194-C-81, agency: LBM Management) (14+8) the only players in double-digit for Parma; on the French side, Liad Suez-Karni (191-F/C-81, college: Villanova) 16 and Sene 10.

Schio, in group I, posted a basically 69-58 win against BC Moscow, deleting the -10 deficit suffered in Russia. Laura Macchi (187-F-79) nailed 21 points and 12 boards; Ciampoli and Ngoyisa netted 11 and Masciadri 10. On the Russian outfit, Curry signed 16+11 and Plenette Pierson (188-F/C-81, college: Texas Tech) 12+12.

Venezia, in group L, had the best rule since, beating Montpellier 84-75. Francesca Modica (175-G-81) posted 22 points on 9/13 shooting accuracy, helped by Johnson (17+8 assists), Sanford (15+8 boards), Andrade (12) and Vujovic (12). On the French side, good performances by Gunta Basko (181-F-80, college: Siena): 18 points, 11 rebounds and 6 steals.

A fantastic third quarter lifted Taranto in group J to a 81-66 victory over Challes-Les-Aux. Overwhelming Rebekkah Brunson (191-F/C-81, agency: LBM Management, college: Georgetown) (26+16), plus Sauret-Gillespie (16), Greco (15), Anna Zimerle (173-G-76) (12) and Summerton (12) for the hosts. The French squad was lighted by Slavka Frniakova (166-G-79) (17 points) and Jackson (15).

Standings

EuroCup Standings

Group A
1. Besiktas		4-1
2. Panionios		4-1
3. Zeljeznicar		2-3
4. Vojvodina		0-5
Group B
1. Hemofarm		4-1
2. TED Kayseri		3-2
3. Arad		2-3
4. Apollon		1-4
Group C
1. Elektra		4-1
2. Vologda		3-2
3. Botas		2-3
4. Buducnost		1-4
Group D
1. Galatasaray		4-1
2. Elizur Ram.		3-2
3. AEL		2-3
4. Dnipro		1-4
Group E
1. MBK Ruz.		5-0
2. Kozachka		3-2
3. ZTE		1-4
4. U.Neuch.		1-4
Group F
1. AZS Gorzow		4-1
2. Gospic		3-2
3. Szeged		2-3
4. Wasserburg		1-4
Group G
1. Dynamo K.		5-0
2. CCC		4-1
3. Trutnov		1-4
4. Foton		0-5
Group H
1. Cajacanar.		5-0
2. Pays d Aix		4-1
3. 08		1-4
4. Parma		0-5
Group I
1. Schio		4-1
2. BC Moscow		4-1
3. Extrugasa		2-3
4. Sierre		0-5
Group J
1. Taranto		4-1
2. Hondar.-Irun		3-2
3. Challes		3-2
4. Rh.Rebels		0-5
Group K
1. Tarbes		4-1
2. Nadezhda		4-1
3. CAB Mad.		1-4
4. N.Namur		1-4
Group L
1. Venezia		5-0
2. Montpellier		3-2
3. San Jose		2-3
4. Lexembourg		0-5

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EUROLEAGUE (W) - Women

Thursday results of Round 5 -by Eurobasket News

Jolly JBS Sibenik - USK Prague 62:71 (13-16, 17-14, 17-22, 15-19)

Jolly JBS Sibenik had a chance to go on the second place of Euroleague, Group B in case of win. USK Prague did not allow them to take the victory and stole 62:71 road game. The visitors enjoyed the second half that brought them 9 points advantage. Jannell Burse (197-C-79, college: Tulane) led the winners with 16 points and rebounds. Lindsay Whalen (173-G-82, college: Minnesota) followed her with 15, while Elena Karpova (188-F-80) and Mokrosova nailed 9 each. Jessica Dickson (180-F-84, college: S.Florida) finished the night with 22 points in the losing effort.

USK Prague did not mind 400 spectators who came to support in Croatia. A 13:16 in the opening quarter gave them some confidence to dominate. Jolly JBS Sibenik replied with 17:14 and left the scores knotted at 30:30.
The second half belonged to the visitors. A 17:22 in the third brought them five points advantage after 30 minutes of the thriller. Another 15:19 in the last and the game was over at 62:71.
USK Prague showed better percentage in all the categories including field goals (42.1% vs 41%), three-pointers (50.0% vs 22.2%) and free throws (66.7% vs 52.2%). The next game Croatian team will play on December 12th against French Bourges.

Jolly JBS Sibenik: Jessica Dickson 22, Tihana Juric (194-C-76) 20, Jelavic 12
USK Prague: Jannell Burse 16+7 rebs, Lindsay Whalen 15, Elena Karpova 9, Mokrosova 9

TEO Vilnius - Dynamo 78:72 (13-20, 24-14, 20-14, 21-24)
TEO Vilnius grabbed the second win in Euroleague campaign beating Dynamo 78:72 last night. Lithuanian team caught them up in Group D ladder as both squads have 2-3 record. Yelena Leuchanka (196-C-83, college: W.Virginia) led the winners with 20 points and 10 rebounds. Jurgita Streimikyte (191-F-72) posted 17, while Nykesha Sales (183-F/G-76, college: Connecticut) added 14. Simona Augustus (185-G-84, college: LSU) top-scored for the Russian team with 23 points.

Dynamo had the better of the first period securing a 20:13 advantage. TEO replied with 24:14 in the second to take 37:34 lead at the half. It was Yelena Leuchanka who first gave an advatage to the hosts as she made a jump-shot at 35:34.
Sulciute in the third gave TEO 55:46 and then Jurgita Streimikyte increased the lead to plus 11. Lithuanian squad held ten points in the last quarter, however let the guests to reduce to 4 at some time of it. Firsova's three brought an intrigue at 74:70, but Yelena Leuchanka's free throws in the end lifted TEO on top. Both teams stay in the middle of the group having 2-3 record.

The next games are scheduled on December 12/13. For now three teams stay undefeated in the tournament and there are no teams without victories.

TEO Vilnius: Yelena Leuchanka 20+10 rebs, Jurgita Streimikyte 17, Nykesha Sales 14
Dynamo: Simona Augustus 23, Anete Jekabsone-Zogota (176-F-83) 16

MiZo Pecs- Ros Casares 75:80 (23-20, 22-25, 17-12, 13-23)

Ros Casares Valencia extended their unbeaten record to 5-0 in Group D. In a tough road game the team beat MiZo Pecs 75:80. Ros Casares led 47:45 in the third quarter, but Pecs then made 13-0 run to move ahead 58:47. A 13:23 in the last quarter left Spanish team undefeated. Katie Douglas (183-G/F-79, college: Purdue) paced the winners with 21 points. Milton collected 16 points and 12 rebounds, while Aguilar added 13. Dalma Ivanyi (178-G-76, college: Florida Intern.) top-scored for the hosts with 15 points.

MiZo Pecs: Dalma Ivanyi 15, Fegyverneky 13, Vajda 12+12 rebs
Ros Casares: Katie Douglas 21, Milton 16+12 rebs, Aguilar 13

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FINLAND - Women

SM-SARJA: Yelena Solovyeva in foul trouble -by Rauno Hurmalainen

SM-sarja, Round 14-15: HoNsU (Jyvaskyla) had a good game vs Catz (Lappeenranta) on Thursday at home, but Catz survived anyway by 10 pts margin
(65-75). Catz C Yelena Solovyeva (189-C-75) was early in foul trouble and actually fouled out in 15 minutes. Solovyeva scored only six (6) pts and had five (5) rbs.
Elena Reshetko (20) and Tamara Tatham (15/10), the Player of November, took care of the rest and last quarter, though. Next game: Dec 8, Finnish Cup

Final Catz vs Espoo Team at Vantaa Energy Arena.

HoNsU - Catz 65-75 (24-42) (Lizanne Murphy 17/16, Salla Viitanen 15 - Elena Reshetko 20, Tamara Tatham 15/10).

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FRANCE - Women

7 defeats in Europe for French Clubs - who would have believed it -by Leslie Anderson

Eurobasket now has a correspondent who writes and deals with all the match reports for EuroLeague Women and also for EuroCup women and has already published match reports for the French section. So they is no need for a repeat summary of any of the match details.

If this week was the last round of games and not the mid-way stage then all the French clubs would be out of the EuroLeague competition.

Last season Cercle Jean Mace Bourges has the meanest defence in the competition and were very difficult to manoeuvre at home, so what has happened this season. Cercle Jean Mace Bourges are winning games domestically but have struggled to get things going; an introduction to one of the their problems in EuroLeague can be found here. The other problems for Cercle Jean Mace Bourges and French clubs will be published this weekend.

Valenciennes USVO problems are completely different to Cercle Jean Mace Bourges and despite putting some good results together have not looked convincing all season., USO Mondeville are on a very tight budget and the loss of any first team member is felt immediately. Due to their excellent youth programme they have been able to get by in the league but the EuroLeague is not so easy. Villeneuve D'Asco ESB Lille Metropole are in this competition for the first time and have a squad of players that have very little experience at this level, so they were expected to find the going tough. Valenciennes USVO with two wins are the best placed French team which basically means that the French teams now have to start winning matches . They have only managed 5 wins out of a possible 20.

The EuroCup has not been that smooth either but all French clubs should qualify for the knock-out competition. Ironically Tarbes Gespe Bigorre that have had a torrid time in the domestic league with only one win so far this season, qualified last week for the knock-out round with what was a perfect record. That record has now gone as they lost on Wednesday evening. Lattes Montpellier Agglomeration Basket also lost on Wednesday, they have struggled to find their form so far this season and it now appears that it was the right decision by the club to decline their invitation for the EuroLeague. You will be able to find a reason for their recent defeat in EuroCup here.

Challes-les-Eaux Basket are good at home and poor away and that has not changed. The also lost tonight tonight in Italy.

The only winner this week in Europe for Frencg Clubs was Pays d'Aix Basket 13 Provence , they have had a difficult start to the season and have had to work hard to win their games but it appears that things are getting better. Ines Kresovic is once again reunited with Sherill Baker who signed for Pays d'Aix Basket 13 Provence last week. .

LFB: what next for clubs in the LFB -by Leslie Anderson

After the shock of this weeks results in Europe for French Clubs is how will they recover for this weekend games. Cercle Jean Mace Bourges continue their road trip this weekend with a visit ASPTT Arras. ASPTT Arras have concerns for Carla Thomas and Sylvie Gruszczynski while Emmeline N'Dongue is uncertain for Cercle Jean Mace Bourges

Arras have settled into a good rhythm and will have not be intimated by any team, Arras are the last team to secure a victory against Bourges during the regular season.

Valenciennes USVO also have a tough tie against Challes-les-Eaux Basket. Valenciennes USVO tend to comeback from defeats in Europe with big wins in the League, Challes does not have the best record on the road but are currently third in the league.

Saint Jacques Sport Reims hope to end their negative series of three defeats when they take on Villeneuve D'Asco ESB Lille Metropole this weekend. Villeneuve D'Asco ESB Lille Metropole will be hoping that Kathy Wambe is available to play as the match-up against Saint Jacques Sport Reims Anne-Marie Parau should be very interesting.

Lattes Montpellier Agglomeration Basket have had a tough 10 days and will like to get their season back on course by beating USO Mondeville For Mondeville the injury problems to both pivots is a handicap at the moment but they do have some of the best 3-point shooter in France.

Union Saint-Amand Porte du Hainaut will need to take care as they welcome Stade Clermontois Auvergne Basket 63. Cote d'Opale Basket Calais will be looking for victory number 3 as they take on Mourenx Basket Club at home.

The last match of the weekend brings together Pays d'Aix Basket 13 Provence and Tarbes Gespe Bigorre. Neither club expected to be in their current position in the bottom half of the table. Tarbes Gespe Bigorre have already changed trainer this season and really need a victory to stay within touching distance of the other clubs. Aix have started to play well in recent weeks and a victory will give them a two game advantage again Tarbes Gespe Bigorre .

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GERMANY - Women

The first is the most delicious! -by Eurobasket News
TSV Wasserburg - Szeviep 83:82 (27-15, 19-24, 20-19, 17-24)

Wasserburg celebrated the first win in EuroCup this season. In a home thriller against Szeviep the German powerhouse won 83:82. As a result 27:15 was almost enough after the opening quarter. Amanda Lassiter (186-F-79, college: Missouri) paced the winners with 24 points. Katrina Hibbert (180-G/F-77, college: LSU) netted 14, while Diana Adela Pop (175-G-71) collected 13 points, 7 rebounds and 8 assists. Milena Tomova (191-F-82, college: Florida Intern.) chipped in 32 points in the losing effort. TSV Wasserburg improved to 1-4, while Szeviep is 2-3.
The hosts opened the game with 7-0 run and it was noticeable how hard the team can do in order to win for the first time. Wasserburg led to 27:15 after the first 10 minutes in a great beginning of it. The second quarter had another scenario and Ivelina Vrantcheva (175-G-82) reduced to 34;32 in the end of it. The teams however went to the lockers with 46:39 at the half time.
Amanda Lassiter made plus 14 in the third quarter in a 20:19 victory. It did not seem that the visitors would be able to catch up as TSV Wasserburg still had 10 points with 5 minutes remaining. A 7-0 run by the Hungarian team however brought an intrigue in the final seconds. Ivelina Vrantcheva tied the score at 82:82 when German team was frustrated. Luckily for the hosts Diana Adela Pop's free throw was enough to taste the Victory of EuroCup.

TSV Wasserburg: Amanda Lassiter 24, Katrina Hibbert 14, Diana Adela Pop 13+7 rebs+8 ast
Szeviep: Milena Tomova 32, Ivelina Vrantcheva 16, Judit Kajdacsi (191-C-79) 15+13 rebs

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HUNGARY - Women

Three loses on the FIBA EuroCup -by Adam Patonay
Every hungarian team lost on the 5th round on the EuroCup. Zala Volan ZTE couldn't win on home court against Kozachka-Zalk. Their injured point guard, Gabriela Kubatova played 14 minutes but it wasn't enough for ZTE. The hungarian team made a terrible first half and lost the chance for their second win.
Seat Foton Gyor lost in Russia against the group-favourite Dynamo Kursk. Gyor scored more points on the first quarter than the other 30 minutes...
Szeviep Szeged visited the last team on their group. The two teams played a close game, Milena Tomova (191-F-82, college: Florida Intern.) led her team but Szeged couldn't win it without their team-captain Emoke Furesz.

Zala-Volan ZTE - Kozachka-Zalk 55:71
Zala-Volan: Molly Creamer (177-G-81, agency: LBM Management, college: Bucknell) 11/3 (5 rebounds, 4 assists), Czukor T., Szelesy J. 7/3, Kubatova G. 2, Ambrus Sz., Nikolett Turoczi (187-F/C-80) 16 (4 rebounds), Hersics A. 8, Horvath Zs. 2, Milkova L. 9

Dynamo Kursk - Seat Foton Gyor 66:43
Gyor: Bronislava Borovickova (170-G-80) 12/9, Toth E., Horvath Z. 4, Szalay V., Antolovics A. 4, Koncz J. 5/3, Borecka I. 5/3, Varga R. 9/3 (7 rebound), Szakacs I. 4.

TSV Wasserburg - Szeviep Szeged 83:82
Szeged: Milena Tomova 32/9 (5 rebounds, 4 assists, 4 blocks), Torok Sz. 8 (4 assists), Kovacs K. 8/3 (7rebounds), Ivelina Vrantcheva (175-G-82) 16/3 (5 rebounds, 6 assists, 3 steals), Laczi E., Judit Kajdacsi (191-C-79) 15 (13 rebounds), Russai P. 3/3

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ISRAEL - Women

Round 10th Leaders -by Gil Goshen
Day 10 Leaders

POINTS

1. T. Smith 25.0
2. E. Curry 24.0
3. E. Brown 23.0

REBOUNDS

1. M. Woods 23.0
2. S. Gortman 16.0
3. A. Walker 12.0

ASSISTS

1. T. Wright 8.0
2. S. Doron 6.0
3. E. Curry 5.0

EFFICIENCY

1. T. Wright 35.0
2. M. Woods 32.0
3. A. Walker 31.0

Tanisha Wright (180-G-83, college: Penn St.)

The 10th round first team -by Gil Goshen

Round 10 MVP - Tangela Smith 25 points, 11rb.

Round 10 First Team
Ednisha Curry - 24 points , six rebounds and five assists for Curry who helped Hapoel Tel Aviv get their first win of the season, against Tel Kabir.

Shay Doron - 23 points in ,five rebounds and six assists.
Tanisha Wright - Another great game for Tanisha - with 23 points, 8 assists, 7 rebounds and 7 steals in Bnot Hsharon win over Ramat Hen.

Dionnah Jackson - 17 points and 12 rebounds.
Tangela Smith - 25 points, 11 rb.
Tangela Smith (193-F/C-77, college: Iowa)

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ITALY - Women

Faenza triumphs, while Phard Napoli loses in Riga -by Eurobasket News
Germano Zama Faenza won the game "for the second win in Group D" of EuroLeague Women. Italian team overcame French USO Mondeville 77:70. Marija Eric (164-G-83) paced the winners with 17 points. Silva Dos Santos netted 14, while Simona Ballardini (183-F-81) and Nieuwveen had 13 apiece. Lenae Williams (184-F-79, college: De Paul) produced 21 points and 9 rebounds in defeat.
French team was in front almost for the majority of the first quarter. With 17:19 the team however stooped and lost the opening quarter 22:19. A 15:14 in the second quarter brought Italian side 37:33 at the half.
Marija Eric opened the second half with a three to give the hosts 40:33 advantage. Paoline Salagnac with 2 free thrwos kept French side in the game at 54:52 after 30 minutes. Daliborka Jokic made a jump shot and was fouled on the play, she converted the free throw for a three-point play. Simona Ballardini improved her team's deficit to 72:66 with less than two minutes to play. Marija Eric's last point in the game showed 77:70 for Germano Zama Faenza. USO Basket fell at 1-4 in the group.

Latvian TTT Riga ensured their 3rd victory at the FIBA Euroleague tournament as they beat Phard Napoli. TTT Riga delivered an impressive win in front of roaring 2300 spectators and stayed at the second spot in Group A. Astou Ndiaye opened the scoring stats for Phard Napoli and later added a jumper to keep the visitors up early in the game. But soon Micaela Jacintho nailed 5 straight points for TTT Riga to set them in front 9:7. The teams remained close throughout the first quarter but Micaela Jacintho nailed a free throw to cap the first quarter and gave the hosts a 14:13 lead. Iciss Tillis (194-F-81, college: Duke) came up with 9 points in the second quarter and allowed TTT Riga to enjoy a 33:25 lead at halftime. The defense was a priority for TTT Riga in this game and it paid off early in the third frame as they kept Napoli scoreless for more than 4 minutes. TTT Riga used the momentum to enlarge the gap to 19 points. Napoli managed to crown the third term with a 5:0 run and cut the gap to 16 points. The hosts obviously slowed down in the fourth period and Napoli received a chance to pull within 10 point distance from the home side. Kedra Holland-Corn (173-G-74) nailed a three-pointer to cut the deficit to 6 points midway through the frame. But TTT Riga coach immediately called for timeout and the hosts regained control for good in this one.
Iciss Tillis delivered 19 points and 9 boards to lead TTT Riga. Micaela Jacintho scored 15 points, while Olena Zherzherunova had 10 points in a winning case. Astou Ndiaye answered with 20 points for Napoli. Kedra Holland-Corn provided 15 points in the 4th defeat for Napoli. TTT Riga will next take on CSKA in a highly-anticipated 6th round encounter. Phard Napoli will host Fenerbahce next.

TTT Riga - Phard Napoli 63:55
TTT Riga: Iciss Tillis 19+9 boards, Micaela Jacintho 15, Olena Zherzherunova 10
Napoli: Astou Ndiaye 20, Kedra Holland-Corn 15

Germano Zama Faenza -USO Basket 77:70
Germano Zama Faenza: Marija Eric 17, Silva Dos Santos 14, Simona Ballardini 13, Nieuwveen 13
USO Basket: Lenae Williams 21+9 rebs, Paoline Salagnac 15, Aubert 15

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LEBANON - Women

Houssamedin Hariri International Tournament 2007 -by Raffi Kassabian
The lebanese basketball league will be in break for two weeks since four teams are participating in Houssamedin Hariri International Tournament. Homenetmen Antelias, Antranik Beirut, Riyadi Beirut and Blue Stars from Lebanon, Orthodoxy Club from Jordan and Al Ahly from Egypt are the teams participating in the third Hariri Tournament for women this year which is the seventeenth for men's category. The 6 teams are divided to two groups: Group A including Antranik Beirut (Lebanon), Blue Stars (Lebanon), Al Ahly (Egypt) while Group B includes Homenetmen Antelias (Lebanon), Riyadi Beirut (Lebanon), Orthodoxy Club (Jordan). In the semi finals, 1st place team of group A will play against the 2nd place team of group B and the 1st place team of group B will play against the 2nd place team of group A and the winners will play in the final on the 13th of December in Saida. Here to note that Homenetmen Antelias is the Hariri tournament champion in its first edition in 2005, while the Lebanese National team won the second edition in 2006.

Schedule and Results

Thursday 6/12/2007
Group A
Anranik Beirut (Lebanon) - Blue Stars (Lebanon) 81-52

Friday 7/12/2007
Group B
Riyadi Beirut (Lebanon) - Orthodoxy Club (Jordan) 80-67

Saturday 8/12/2007
Antranik's Demirjian Center
Group A
Al Ahly (Egypt) vs Blue Stars (Lebanon) 18:00

Group B
Riyadi Beirut (Lebanon) vs Homenetmen Antelias (Lebanon) 20:00

Sunday 9/12/2007
Homenetmen's Tenjoukian Stadium
Group B
Homenetmen Antelias (Lebanon) vs Orthodoxy Club (Jordan) 19:00

Monday 10/12/2007
Antranik's Demirjian Center
Group A
Antranik Beirut (Lebanon) vs Al Ahly (Egypt) 20:00

Semifinals - Wednesday 12/12/2007
Antranik's Demirjian Center
Game 1: 1st place of Group A vs 2nd place of Group B 18:00
Game 2: 2nd place of Group A vs 1st place of Group B 20:00

Final - Thursday 13/12/2007
Hariri Court Saida
winner of game 1 vs winner of game 2 15:00

Results - Round 5 of the Lebanese League -by Raffi Kassabian
The 5th round of the lebanese basketball women league saw Antranik Beirut, Riyadi Beirut and Homenetmen Antelias all win again. This round also saw the first game that a team doesn't show to play with Byblos didn't have 5 players to start the game against Anibal Zahle who won (20-0).

Results - Round 5

Blue Stars - Homenetmen Antelias 38-86
Blue Stars: Maghalie Safar 7, Carole Kamel 7, May Oueidat 6, Jihane Akiki 5, Elssa Bechara 5, Dima Samira 4, Aya Chiri 4.
Homenetmen Antelias: Sandra Najem (165-G-88) 31, Nathalie Sevajian (170-G-88) 15, Alek Tabakian (175-G-85) 13, Leila Fares 6, Caroline Moufarej 6, Eliana Abou Jawdeh 5, Nayiri Voskerijian 4, Eliane Chalhoub 4, Sanan Markarian 2.

Champville - Antranik Beirut 41-77
Byblos - Anibal Zahle 0-20
Riyadi Beirut - Homenetmen Beirut 88-45

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LITHUANIA - Women

TEO catches up Dynamo in Group D ladder -by Eurobasket News

TEO Vilnius - Dynamo 78:72 (13-20, 24-14, 20-14, 21-24)

TEO Vilnius grabbed the second win in Euroleague campaign beating Dynamo 78:72 last night. Lithuanian team caught them up in Group D ladder as both squads have 2-3 record. Yelena Leuchanka (196-C-83, college: W.Virginia) led the winners with 20 points and 10 rebounds. Jurgita Streimikyte (191-F-72) posted 17, while Nykesha Sales (183-F/G-76, college: Connecticut) added 14. Simona Augustus (185-G-84, college: LSU) top-scored for the Russian team with 23 points.

Dynamo had the better of the first period securing a 20:13 advantage. TEO replied with 24:14 in the second to take 37:34 lead at the half. It was Yelena Leuchanka who first gave an advatage to the hosts as she made a jump-shot at 35:34.
Sulciute in the third gave TEO 55:46 and then Jurgita Streimikyte increased the lead to plus 11. Lithuanian squad held ten points in the last quarter, however let the guests to reduce to 4 at some time of it. Firsova's three brought an intrigue at 74:70, but Yelena Leuchanka's free throws in the end lifted TEO on top. Both teams stay in the middle of the group having 2-3 record.

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LUXEMBOURG - Women

And another upset in EuroCup -by Eurobasket News

EXMA-Baloncesto San Jose 60:84 (21-19, 14-22, 10-19, 15-24)

EXMA lost the fifth game of EuroCup being defeated by Baloncesto San Jose 60:84. A 21:19 in the opening quarter was a great start, however the hosts could not stay in front. Allison Feaster (181-F-76, college: Harvard)-Strong led the winners with 14 points. Revuelto Sanchez Aguilera chipped in 12, while Murriel Page (190-C-75, college: Florida) scored 11. Catherine Scanlon (180-G/F-83, college: Drexel) top-scored with 25 points and 9 rebounds in defeat.

Catherine Scanlon opened the game from the arc to see her team grabbed the first lead. It was not the last as the hosts stayed in front after the first 10 minutes, 21:19. Another 24:22 and 26:24, but then the team from Luxembourg stopped. San Jose took a chance to lead the game before the second half, 35:41.
A good defense and some easy baskets lifted Baloncesto San Jose to 10:19 in the third. Murriel Page was the last to score for her team as the guests had 45:60 advantage. The last quarter was the offensive game as there was no need to struggle. Spanish squad grabs 60:84 victory to improve to 2-3.

The next game EXMA will play at home against Venezia from Italy on December 12.

EXMA: Catherine Scanlon 25+9 rebs, Rachel Wojdowski (179-G/F-82, agency: LBM Management) 10, Ranela Skegro (187-F/C-71) 10
Baloncesto San Jose: Allison Feaster14, Revuelto Sanchez Aguilera 12, Murriel Page 11

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NEW ZEALAND - Women

The Sirens come from behind to upset the Capitals in overtime -by Eurobasket News
The WNBL newcomers continue to pile up historic victories. Today they added another victim to their list after they edged the reigning champs Canberra Capitals in thriller. The lead changed hands for 9 times in the opening frame before Tracey Beatty (202-C-79) and Natalie Hurst (163-G-83) put the Capitals in front 18:15. The Capitals started the second term with a 6:0 to enlarge the lead and continued to mount pressure. Jessica Bibby (169-G-79) and Natalie Hurst soon put the Capitals up by 10 points 33:23. But Noni Wharemate (171-G-82, college: UTEP) and Natalie Purcell (183-F-82, college: SE Missouri St.) combined 5 straight points to cut the gap to 4 points at halftime 28:32. Abby Bishop (189-C-88) scored quick 4 points for Canberra early in the third term to restore a 6-point margin but Ashley Awkward (168-G-85, college: Mississippi) answered with 6 points, while Noni Wharemate added a jumper as the Sirens regained the lead midway through the period. However Crista Hays (188-C-80) capped the third stanza with a jump shot to make it 48:46 for Canberra. The teams exchanged the blows throughout the whole fourth period before Tracy Breatty scored a jump shot with 2 seconds remaining and forced overtime. Donna Wilkins hit a free throw to give the lead to the Sirens but Abby Bishop quickly matched with her own one and later Jessica Bibby added two more free throws to ensure a 70:68 advantage for the Capitals. But Noni Wharemate brought the victory to Christchurch. She first knocked down a jumper and then sealed the win from charity stripe. Natalie Hurst tried to save the day for the Capitals but her potential winner missed the mark.
Lamisha Augustine (186-F-82, agency: LBM Management, college: San Jose St.) paced the winners with 17 points and 9 boards. Donna Wilkins scored 12 points and pulled down 14 boards, while Noni Wharemate and Antonia Edmondson produced 10 points apiece in the 5th win for the Sirens. Natalie Hurst had 19 points for Canberra. Tracey Beatty delivered 16 points in a losing effort. Christchurch improved to 5-9 record and would take on Perth at home next.
Meanwhile Donna Wilkins announced she would not play for NZ Tall Ferns in the Beijing next year. She explained that she can not guarantee her 100% readiness for the Olympic Games and it should not be the case when you go to this kind of tournament. This means that Tall Ferns will be with only two players that participated in Athens Olympiad - Aneka Kerr (183-F-81) and Angela Marino (166-G-86).

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POLAND - Women

Gorzow edges Gospic for the first place in Group F -by Eurobasket News
KSSSE AZS-PWSZ Gorzow - Gospic 92:66 (23-16, 20-22, 28-13, 21-15)

Gorzow and Gospic struggled in Group F of EuroCup for the first position. Polish team having around 1000 spectators had a great support by them winning 92:66. Justyna Zurowska (188-C-85) paced all the winners with 19 points. Christelle N'Garsanet (191-C-83, agency: Merit Sports, college: Missouri) netted 18, while Agnieszka Szott (186-F-82) scored 17. Mirjana Tabak (182-F-72) chipped in for the visitors with 16 points.

Six consecutive points saw Gorzow Wielkopolski in the opening tip of the game. Their team played much better and deserved 9 points lead after the first 10 minutes of the game. Moore with a lay-up made it 23;16 for the hosts. Gospic played better in the second quarter but could not tie the score. Mazic cut the deficit to 3 points but then Agnieszka Szott sent the teams to the lockers with 43:38.
A 8-0 run in the middle of the third gave the Polish squad control for the whole game. Ristic's lay up gave her team 71:51 after 3rd. Another 9-0 run in the last quarter ruined the Croatian team. KSSSE AZS-PWSZ Gorzow nailed 92 points in the game and easily overcame the opponent.

KSSSE AZS-PWSZ Gorzow: Justyna Zurowska 19, Christelle N'Garsanet 18, Agnieszka Szott 17
Gospic: Mirjana Tabak 16, Katarina Maloca (190-F/C-75) 14

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PORTUGAL - Women

CAB Madeira wins over Novia as two teams are 1-4 in EuroCup -by Eurobasket News

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ROMANIA - Women

TED Koleji beats Arad for the second place -by Eurobasket News
Pankup TED Koleji - Arad 76:67 (24-15, 17-23, 15-17, 20-12)

Pankup TED Koleji overcame Arad 76:67 in the game for the second place in Group B of EuroCup. A confident start and the end of the game brought such an expected result for the hosts. Monique Coker (188-F-82, college: ODU) led the winners with 19 points and 8 rebounds. Jacqueline Moore (189-C-79, college: Long Beach St.) collected 16 points and made 10 boards, while Stanoeva added 13. Sheena Moore top-scored for the Romanian team with 20 points.

Ozkan was very active in the first minutes of the game to score five points in a 7-2 run. Metin's three closed the opening quarter at 24:15. In the second quarter Sunter brought her team 10 points deficit after a lay-up made. Dragana Zoric (178-F-78, agency: LBM Management) led her team back on track as the visitors reduced to 34:33. Pankup TED Koleji kept the score for good at the half time, 41:38.
In the beginning of the third quarter the hosts increased to 10 points again, but then Arad closed the gap and felt the taste of the lead. Pavel made the score 53:55 with a minute to play in the third. Daricioglu's three brought back the Turkish side in front. The hosts made a 6-0 run in the fourth and led the game to 76:67 victory.

Pankup TED Koleji: Monique Coker 19+8 rebs, Jacqueline Moore 16+10 rebs, Stanoeva 13
Arad: Sheena Moore 20, Dragana Zoric 14+8 rebs

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RUSSIA - Women

TEO catches up Dynamo in Group D ladder -by Eurobasket News

TEO Vilnius - Dynamo 78:72 (13-20, 24-14, 20-14, 21-24)

TEO Vilnius grabbed the second win in Euroleague campaign beating Dynamo 78:72 last night. Lithuanian team caught them up in Group D ladder as both squads have 2-3 record. Yelena Leuchanka (196-C-83, college: W.Virginia) led the winners with 20 points and 10 rebounds. Jurgita Streimikyte (191-F-72) posted 17, while Nykesha Sales (183-F/G-76, college: Connecticut) added 14. Simona Augustus (185-G-84, college: LSU) top-scored for the Russian team with 23 points.

Dynamo had the better of the first period securing a 20:13 advantage. TEO replied with 24:14 in the second to take 37:34 lead at the half. It was Yelena Leuchanka who first gave an advatage to the hosts as she made a jump-shot at 35:34.
Sulciute in the third gave TEO 55:46 and then Jurgita Streimikyte increased the lead to plus 11. Lithuanian squad held ten points in the last quarter, however let the guests to reduce to 4 at some time of it. Firsova's three brought an intrigue at 74:70, but Yelena Leuchanka's free throws in the end lifted TEO on top. Both teams stay in the middle of the group having 2-3 record.

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SLOVAK REP. - Women

Universite BC Neuchatel falls at 1-4, MBK Ruzomberok improves to 5-0 -by Eurobasket News
MBK Ruzomberok -Universite BC Neuchâtel 73:70 (19-18, 12-15, 25-22, 17-15)

MBK Ruzomberok improved to 5-0 after a tough victory over Universite BC Neuchâtel 73:70. A funny first ten points from the hosts were replied with 11 from the guests in the opening tip. Regina Palusna (192-C-89) led the winners with 17 points and 13 rebounds. Lucia Kupcikova (184-F-84) and Simona Podesvova (186-F-83) followed her with 14 points each and grabbed 25 boards for two. Cameo Hicks (178-G-84, agency: LBM Management, college: Washington) ended up with 24 points and 5 rebounds for the visitors.

A 10-0 run was the start of the fifth game for the Slovak team. Universite BC Neuchâtel however waited for some time and replied with 11-0 to take 10:11 lead. In a wild first quarter MBK Ruzomberok had 19:18 advantage. Sophie Charlier (180-G-82, agency: LBM Management)'s three pointer gave the guests plus five in the beginning of the second. Wilkins kept them in front at 31:33 half time.
In a back-to-back third quarter Regina Palusna gave Ruzomberok 56:55 deficit. Universite BC Neuchâtel led for nine minuites of the last quarter, but then saw a loss in the last seconds of it. Wilson's five points in a row brought the 5th win for the favorites. Slovak team remains undefeated in the tournament, while Universite BC Neuchâtel falls at 1-4.

MBK Ruzomberok: Regina Palusna 17+13 rebs, Lucia Kupcikova 14+11 rebs, Simona Podesvova 14+14 rebs
Universite BC Neuchâtel: Cameo Hicks 24+5 rebs, Sophie Charlier 19

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SPAIN - Women

All the wins in EuroCup and all of them away from home -by Eurobasket News
Four Spanish teams showed outstanding result in EuroCup as all of them won their games.

In the capital of Sweden O8 Stockholm HR was upset by the favorite of Group H Gran Canaria 68:71. Roneeka Hodges (180-G-82, college: Florida St.) paced the winners with 24 points. Rodriguez netted 17, while Taru Tuukkanen collected 13 points and 15 rebounds. Jennie Thingwall (183-F-85) produced 22 points and 8 rebounds in defeat.
Jennie Thingwall was happy to nail the first four points of the game as her team enjoyed the lead in the opening tip. Gran Canaria woke up immediately and Roneeka Hodges closed the quarter at 17:18. In a very offensive second quarter Swedish squad was stronger and grabbed the advantage at the half, 42:40.
The third quarter belonged to the visitors who maintained the lead. Taru Tuukkanen closed a 5-0 run to take 50:58 for the Spanish squad. The game was not over and O8 Stockholm HR returned to the last quarter with 8-0 run to minimize at 58:60. Petillon gave the hosts 68:67 with a bit than a minute to play, but the Swedish representative did not hold the score for good. Montesdeoca and Rodriguez free throws sent 08 to 1-4. Gran Canaria enjoys the group being undefeated.

A better game than two previous saw Tylorstown that is in Wales. Rhondda Rebels lost the fifth game in EuroCup, but showed a good game against Hondarribia-Irun 64:89. Shameka Christon (186-G/F-82, college: Arkansas) led the winners with 22 points. Zane Tamane (194-C-83, college: W.Illinois) netted 16, while Liene Jansone added 14. LaNedra Brown (188-C-81, agency: LBM Management, college: Seton Hall) as usual top-scored for the hosts with 20 points.
After the visitors started with 0-4 in the opening tip, the spectators thought of another smash. Rhondda Rebels however did not fall down and reduced to 14:15 in the middle of the first. Yea still kept Rhondda Rebels in game, 17:20 after the first. The second quarter was the most horrible for the underdogs that failed 13:24 in it. Hondarribia-Irun enjoyed 30:44 at the half time.
Zane Tamane made the advantage for plus 20, digging 42:62. Suarez from the arc demolished the hosts with 46:67 after thirty minutes. Hondarribia-Irun kept the score for good and proved it in another quarter 18:19. The Spanish squad improved to 3-2 in Group J.

EXMA lost the fifth game of EuroCup being defeated by Baloncesto San Jose 60:84. A 21:19 in the opening quarter was a great start, however the hosts could not stay in front. Allison Feaster (181-F-76, college: Harvard) Strong led the winners with 14 points. Revuelto Sanchez Aguilera chipped in 12, while Murriel Page scored 11. Catherine Scanlon (180-G/F-83, college: Drexel) top-scored with 25 points and 9 rebounds in defeat.
Catherine Scanlon opened the game from the arc to see her team grabbed the first lead. It was not the last as the hosts stayed in front after the first 10 minutes, 21:19. Another 24:22 and 26:24, but then the team from Luxembourg stopped. San Jose took a chance to lead the game before the second half, 35:41.
A good defense and some easy baskets lifted Baloncesto San Jose to 10:19 in the third. Murriel Page was the last to score for her team as the guests had 45:60 advantage. The last quarter was the offensive game as there was no need to struggle. Spanish squad grabs 60:84 victory to improve to 2-3.

Swiss Sdent Sierre suffered their 5th straight defeat in EuroCup and they continued to remain at the bottom of Group I ladder. This time Sdent Sierre fell victims of Spanish Extrugasa at home. Extrugasa improved to 2-3 record in the ladder. The visitors looked adjusting for a minute after tip off as Maria Villarroel hit quick 4 points to put Sdent Sierre ahead. But gradually the shots began dropping for Extrugasa and a triple from Leslie Ardon made it 16:10 for the visiting side. Miriam Herrera and Kiesha Brown (179-G-79, college: Georgia) capped the first frame with 4 straight points and Extrugasa enjoyed a 20:14 lead heading into the second stanza. Extrugasa opened the second frame with a 10:0 rally to build comfortable 30:14 lead. The hosts struggled to find open shots throughout the term and trailed by as many as 14 points at halftime 22:36. Rhona McKenzie (183-F/C-76, agency: LBM Management) and Maria Villarroel gave some boost for the home team midway through the third quarter and Sdent Sierre cut the deficit to 8 points 36:44. But free throws from Kiesha Brown and Marina Kress saw Extrugasa maintain a 12-point advantage at the end of the third period. Kiesha Brown nailed 8 points in the fourth term and never allowed Sdent Sierre to have a glimpse of hope. She topscored for Extrugasa with 18 points and 7 boards. Marina Kress tallied 11 points and 8 boards for the winners. Rhona McKenzie answered with 20 points and 15 boards for Swiss team. Katrien Vercauteren and Maria Villarroel provided 12 points each in defeat. The hosts committed 19 turnovers and shot just 1/10 from beyond the arc. They will next face Schio at home. Extrugasa will host BC Moscow.

EXMA-Baloncesto San Jose 60:84 (21-19, 14-22, 10-19, 15-24)
EXMA: Catherine Scanlon 25+9 rebs, Rachel Wojdowski 10, Ranela Skegro 10
Baloncesto San Jose: Allison Feaster 14, Revuelto Sanchez Aguilera 12, Murriel Page 11

Sdent Sierre - Extrugasa 57:66
Sdent Sierre: Rhona McKenzie 20+15 boards, Katrien Vercauteren 12, Maria Villarroel 12
Extrugasa: Kiesha Brown 18, Marina Kress 11, Sara Gomez 9

Rhondda Rebels - Hondarribia-Irun 64:89 (17-20, 13-24, 16-23, 18-19)
Rhondda Rebels: LaNedra Brown 20, Kirby Copeland 17
Hondarribia-Irun: Shameka Christon 22, Zane Tamane 16+9 rebs, Liene Jansone 14

O8 Stockholm HR- Gran Canaria 68:71 (17-18, 25-22, 8-18, 18-13)
O8 Stockholm HR: Jennie Thingwall 22+8 rebs, Jocelyn Penn 13+9 rebs, Gernandt 12
Gran Canaria: Roneeka Hodges 24, Rodriguez 17, Taru Tuukkanen 13+15 rebs

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SWEDEN - Women

O8 Stockholm HR loses another close game -by Eurobasket News
O8 Stockholm HR- Gran Canaria 68:71 (17-18, 25-22, 8-18, 18-13)

O8 Stockholm HR lost another close game that they could win. In the capital of Sweden O8 Stockholm HR was upset by the favorite of Group H Gran Canaria 68:71. Roneeka Hodges (180-G-82, college: Florida St.) paced the winners with 24 points. Rodriguez netted 17, while Taru Tuukkanen (190-C-77, college: Xavier) collected 13 points and 15 rebounds. Jennie Thingwall (183-F-85) produced 22 points and 8 rebounds in defeat.
Jennie Thingwall was happy to nail the first four points of the game as her team enjoyed the lead in the opening tip. Gran Canaria woke up immediately and Roneeka Hodges closed the quarter at 17:18. In a very offensive second quarter Swedish squad was stronger and grabbed the advantage at the half, 42:40.
The third quarter belonged to the visitors who maintained the lead. Taru Tuukkanen closed a 5-0 run to take 50:58 for the Spanish squad. The game was not over and O8 Stockholm HR returned to the last quarter with 8-0 run to minimize at 58:60. Petillon gave the hosts 68:67 with a bit than a minute to play, but the Swedish representative did not hold the score for good. Montesdeoca and Rodriguez free throws sent 08 to 1-4. Gran Canaria enjoys the group being undefeated.

O8 Stockholm HR: Jennie Thingwall 22+8 rebs, Jocelyn Penn (186-F-79, agency: Merit Sports, college: USC) 13+9 rebs, Gernandt 12
Gran Canaria: Roneeka Hodges 24, Rodriguez 17, Taru Tuukkanen 13+15 rebs

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SWITZERLAND - Women

Universite BC Neuchatel falls at 1-4, MBK Ruzomberok improves to 5-0 -by Eurobasket News
MBK Ruzomberok -Universite BC Neuchâtel 73:70 (19-18, 12-15, 25-22, 17-15)

MBK Ruzomberok improved to 5-0 after a tough victory over Universite BC Neuchâtel 73:70. A funny first ten points from the hosts were replied with 11 from the guests in the opening tip. Regina Palusna (192-C-89) led the winners with 17 points and 13 rebounds. Lucia Kupcikova (184-F-84) and Simona Podesvova (186-F-83) followed her with 14 points each and grabbed 25 boards for two. Cameo Hicks (178-G-84, agency: LBM Management, college: Washington) ended up with 24 points and 5 rebounds for the visitors.

A 10-0 run was the start of the fifth game for the Slovak team. Universite BC Neuchâtel however waited for some time and replied with 11-0 to take 10:11 lead. In a wild first quarter MBK Ruzomberok had 19:18 advantage. Sophie Charlier (180-G-82, agency: LBM Management)'s three pointer gave the guests plus five in the beginning of the second. Wilkins kept them in front at 31:33 half time.
In a back-to-back third quarter Regina Palusna gave Ruzomberok 56:55 deficit. Universite BC Neuchâtel led for nine minuites of the last quarter, but then saw a loss in the last seconds of it. Wilson's five points in a row brought the 5th win for the favorites. Slovak team remains undefeated in the tournament, while Universite BC Neuchâtel falls at 1-4.

MBK Ruzomberok: Regina Palusna 17+13 rebs, Lucia Kupcikova 14+11 rebs, Simona Podesvova 14+14 rebs
Universite BC Neuchâtel: Cameo Hicks 24+5 rebs, Sophie Charlier 19

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U.KINGDOM - Women

Still not enough -by Eurobasket News
Rhondda Rebels - Hondarribia-Irun 64:89 (17-20, 13-24, 16-23, 18-19)

A better game than two previous saw Tylorstown that is in Wales. Rhondda Rebels lost the fifth game in EuroCup, but showed a good game against Hondarribia-Irun 64:89. Shameka Christon (186-G/F-82, college: Arkansas) led the winners with 22 points. Zane Tamane (194-C-83, college: W.Illinois) netted 16, while Liene Jansone (190-F/C-81, college: Siena) added 14. LaNedra Brown (188-C-81, agency: LBM Management, college: Seton Hall) as usual top-scored for the hosts with 20 points.

After the visitors started with 0-4 in the opening tip, the spectators thought of another smash. Rhondda Rebels however did not fall down and reduced to 14:15 in the middle of the first. Yea still kept Rhondda Rebels in game, 17:20 after the first. The second quarter was the most horrible for the underdogs that failed 13:24 in it. Hondarribia-Irun enjoyed 30:44 at the half time.
Zane Tamane made the advantage for plus 20, digging 42:62. Suarez from the arc demolished the hosts with 46:67 after thirty minutes. Hondarribia-Irun kept the score for good and proved it in another quarter 18:19. The Spanish squad improved to 3-2 in Group J.

Rhondda Rebels: LaNedra Brown 20, Kirby Copeland (178-G-85, college: Virginia Tech) 17
Hondarribia-Irun: Shameka Christon 22, Zane Tamane 16+9 rebs, Liene Jansone 14

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UKRAINE - Women

Trailing by 20 points Dnipro grabbed the first win in EuroCup -by Eurobasket News
Dnipro - Elitzur Ramla 71:67 (15-25, 16-16, 21-14, 19-12)

Ukrainian Dnipro celebrated the first victory in EuroCup this season. An excellent comeback in the second half lifted Dnipro over Elitzur Ramla 71:67. Anna Pokoiova (188-F-87) paced the winners with 23 points. Jillian Robbins (185-F-84, agency: LBM Management, college: Tulsa) collected 19 points and 9 rebounds, while Oksana Kisilova (187-F-88) and Lyashkova scored 8 each. Tangela Smith (193-F/C-77, college: Iowa) had a very good game for the visitors nailing 28 points and making 11 boards.

A first win and a desired one! The start was not a key point for the Ukrainian side that missed 15:25 in the opening quarter. Israeli team had even bigger lead, but Matvyeyeva reduced to 10. The disaster saw Ukrainian side in the middle of the second when Abramzon made 21:41. Dnipro replied with 10-0 run to reduce to 31:41 at the half.
The run continued also in the third quarter and reached 14-0 at that time. In the end of the quarter Dnipro stayed 52:55 behind. Anna Pokoiova's five points in a row first tied the game and then brought her team 62:59. The team was on fire and did not allow the guests to steal such a desirable win.

Dnipro: Anna Pokoiova 23, Jillian Robbins 19+9 rebs, Oksana Kisilova 8, Lyashkova 8
Elitzur Ramla: Tangela Smith 28+11 rebs, Laine Selwyn (170-G-81, college: Pittsburgh) 13

Kozachka-Zalk wins in Hungary -by Eurobasket News
Zala Volan ZTE -Kozachka-Zalk 55:71 (16-20, 9-19, 12-15, 18-17)

Kozachka-Zalk is back on track after two losses. The team overcame Zala Volan ZTE in Hungary 55:71. Olena Fenko (187-F-76) led the winners with 18 points and 7 rebounds. Natalia Isachenko (183-G-79) and Svitlana Kozachenko (180-G-74) netted 13 points each to move up the Ukrainian team to 3-2 record. Nikolett Turoczi (187-F/C-80) top-scored for the hosts with 16 points.

Five straight points were scored by Ukrainian side in the opening tip of the game. Svitlana Kozachenko made a lay-up in the end of the first quarter to give her team 16:20 advantage. Right in the beginning of the second Kozachka started to increase the lead and had 14 points margin at the half. Pazyuk nailed a three pointer as her team grabbed 25:39 score.
It was Pazyuk again to bring the visitors the biggest +19 lead in the middle of the third. Olena Fenko made sure that Kozachka was in front with 37:54 after 3rd. When the top-scorer made 51:71 the answer for the winner was clear. Hungarian team reduced to 55:71 but that was not enough for the total score. The host fell at 1-4 in the group and share the bottom with the Swiss team.

Zala Volan ZTE: Nikolett Turoczi 16, Molly Creamer (177-G-81, agency: LBM Management, college: Bucknell) 11
Kozachka-Zalk: Olena Fenko 18+7 rebs, Natalia Isachenko 13+8 rebs, Svitlana Kozachenko 13