EUROBASKET NEWS REPORT - 7/22/2007

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Men News

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ABA

FRENZY SURVIVES RALLY, WINS IN OT -by Chris Terrell
Boston, MA. The ABA Cape Cod Frenzy took a sixteen point lead into halftime against the Meercats, 77-61. But that was before Boston Celtics forward Ryan Gomes (6'7''-F-82, college: Providence) arrived. Somehow, the Frenzy were able to withstand the Meerkats' second half rally and emerged as the winner, 158-155 in overtime.

Gomes put on a second half show that was on a pace for a 76 point game, putting up 38 in the final two quarters. Behind Gomes and Meerkats' point guard Derek Coleman (5'11''-G-84, agency: Court Side, college: Robert Morris) fast-paced assault, the Frenzy's lead vanished. Scott Hazelton (6'8''-F-81, agency: Passing Lane, college: Rhode Island) kept the Frenzy in the game in the third quarter, matching Gomes basket for basket, and Dwight Brewington (6'5''-G-84, college: Providence) kept attacking the basket for Cape Cod.

With two minutes remaining in overtime, Eric Downie (6'6''-G/F, college: Salem St.) drilled a three pointer that opened up a five point lead for the Frenzy. They were able to maintain the margin the rest of the way and hold on for the win.

Scott Hazelton led all scorers with 52 points, Dwight Brewington had 41, and Jamaal Wise (6'5''-F-83, college: Rhode Island) had 23. Eric Downie contributed 25 points, 12 rebounds and 13 assists. Derek Coleman scored 40 points and added 18 assists for the Meerkats.

The Frenzy concluded the Boston Premiere Pro Summer League 6-0 and earned the #1 seed going into the playoffs. Dwight Brewington completed the season as the league's leading scorer with a 46.8 points per game average.

For more informaton, contact Frenzy GM Ian McCarthy at ian@capecodfrenzy.com or visit www.capecodfrenzy.com

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ALGERIA

Algeria will play for the 5th spot -by Eurobasket News
Algeria - Cameroon 82:68
Algerian National team defeated Cameroon in the classification round of All-Africa Games yesterday. The win now means that Algeria will play for the 5th place against Cote d'Ivoire tomorrow.
Algeria had a perfect start to this one as they outscored Cameroon 27:16 in the first frame. The home side was unstoppable in the first half extending their lead to 49:29 at halftime and virtually knocking the opponents down.
Cameroon however tried to remain in the race and cut the deficit to 63:49 at the beginning of the fourth frame but it was as close as they got.Cameroon obviously ran out of steam in the final minutes and Algeria eased to an overall victory.
Tarek Oukid (205-C-79) secured 26 points and 5 rebounds for Algeria. Abdelhalim Sayah (203-F/C-75) delivered 19 points and 11 boards for the winners. Georges Manyaka (-F/C) nailed 18 points and pulled down 11 rebounds for Cameroon. Bertrand Yeumo added 11 points in a defeat. Algeria outrebounded their opponents 37:34. They also shot more accurately from the field converting 51%. The hosts were solid from the charity stripe with 75%.
Algeria takes on Cote d'Ivoire tomorrow, while Cameroon will battle with South African team for the 7th spot.

Algeria: Tarek Oukid 26 points, Abdelhalim Sayah 19+11 boards
Cameroon: Georges Manyaka 18+11 boards, Bertrand Yeumo 11.

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ALL-AFRICA G.

Angola advances to the final by beating Mali 74-60 -by Kristian Santiago

The B-Team of Angola sneaked past Mali to meet Egypt in the finals of the All-African Games in Algeria. Mayzer Alexandre (185-G-84) and Domingos Bonifacio (189-G-84) led the Angolans with 16 points each while Vladimir Geronimo (193-F-78) (11) and Walter Costa (185-G-73) (10) scored also in double digits for the hosts of the African Championships. Mali was led by France-based Modibo Niakate (185-G-81, college: Cleveland St.) who collected 15 points and three assists , while Sory Diakite (170-G-73) netted in 12 points and Modibo Diarra (208-F/C-80, college: Memphis) another 10 points. Mali meets now Nigeria for the third-place game who lost surprisingly to Egypt in the other semi-final.



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ANGOLA

Angola advances to the final by beating Mali 74-60 -by Kristian Santiago

The B-Team of Angola sneaked past Mali to meet Egypt in the finals of the All-African Games in Algeria. Mayzer Alexandre (185-G-84) and Domingos Bonifacio (189-G-84) led the Angolans with 16 points each while Vladimir Geronimo (193-F-78) (11) and Walter Costa (185-G-73) (10) scored also in double digits for the hosts of the African Championships. Mali was led by France-based Modibo Niakate (185-G-81, college: Cleveland St.) who collected 15 points and three assists , while Sory Diakite (170-G-73) netted in 12 points and Modibo Diarra (208-F/C-80, college: Memphis) another 10 points. Mali meets now Nigeria for the third-place game who lost surprisingly to Egypt in the other semi-final.



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ASIAN CHAMPS

Kuwait NT lost twice to Philippine NT -by Hector Santos

Late addition James Yap returned from sick bay to fire 18 points to led the Philippine national team to an 84-68 thumping of Kuwait national team in the first goodwill game last Friday at the Sta. Lucia East Grand Mall Gym, Manila, Philippines

RP's top gunner Danny Seigle also came back to active duty to shoot 13 points.

In the second game, Philippine national team handed the Kuwait national team its worst loss so far via a 100-65 en route at the at the Caruncho Sports Center in Pasig.


Gabe Norwood led the Philippine NT, who took a 55-21 lead at the half, with 13 points.

“They are small and quick but we're getting ready for tall opponents in Group A” Philippine coach Chot Reyes said.

Kuwait NT also lost to a secondary Philippine amateur team before the encounter with the Philippine NT.

Kuwait NT is bracketed in Group B along with host Japan, Lebanon and the United Arab Emirates.



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AUSTRALIA

U19 Worlds: Australia bounced back in classification games over Turkey -by Gauthier Gerard
How the Emus would react after a heart-breaking loss in quarterfinals against Brazil, their first loss of the tournament. They responded with a lot of pride and easily defeated Turkey 82-67 in their first classification game. Australia will play Argentina on Sunday for the 5th place. In the semifinals, USA defeated France in the most exciting game of the tournament while Serbia crushed Brazil.

Australia - Turkey: 82-67
For the first time in the tournament, the Emus did not make a great start as Turkey was leading 4-8 after the two opening minutes. Pat Mills kept his team alive and scored 6 of the first 8 australian points. With the help of Ben Dowdell and Chris Goulding, Australia took the lead and would never looked back. At the end of the first quarter, Australia was leading 24-18, Ogivy and Mills already scored 16pts combined. In the second quarter, all the Emus were able to show their skills like Daniel Johnson, Nate Tomlinson and even Ben Smith who hasn't played since a long time in this tournament. Half-time came on a 44-32 lead for Australia.
Ogilvy, Mills and Dowdell started the third period with one basket each. Andrew Ogilvy showed why he is the tournament's leading scorer with 21pts after three quarter. At the beginning of the last quarter, Australia was leading 59-52. Turkey even cut the aussie lead to 6, 59-53, but they would not come any closer. The Emus answered with a 13-4 run, they were leading 72-57 with less than five minutes left on the clock. The final minutes were pretty calm for Australia and Ben Dowdell iced the result on the free-throw line. The AIS forward made his best game of the tournament with 16pts and 7rbs, Pat Mills netted 19pts 6/8FG while Ogilvy recorded another double-double with 24pts 12rbs.
Stats:
Andrew Ogilvy 24pts 9/15FG 12rbs 24min, Pat Mills 19pts 6/8FG 31min, Ben Dowdell 16pts 5/10FG 7rbs 25min, Daniel Johnson 6pts 2/3FG 4rbs 10min, Daniel Jackson 6pts 2/7FG 7rbs 14min, Shannon Seebohm 4pts 0/4FG 17min, Chris Goulding 3pts 1/3FG 4ast 22min, Nate Tomlinson 2pts 1/1FG 13min, Ben Smith 2pts 1/1FG 7min, Ben Louis 0pts 0/6FG 16min, Cameron Gliddon 0pts 0/0FG 11min, Kevin Probert 0pts 0/2FG 11min

Classification games:
Australia - Turkey: 82-67
Argentina - Spain: 78-75

Semifinals:
USA - France: 78-75
Serbia - Brazil: 89-74

U19 Worlds: Australia lost in quarterfinals against Brazil! -by Gauthier Gerard

The Australia U19 team suffered an heart-breaking one-point loss against Brazil in the 2007 U19 World Championships quarterfinals, 72-73. Despite a great game from Andrew Ogilvy and Pat Mills, the Emus lost the game in the final seconds. Australia will now play in the classification games for the 5th place.

Again Australia made a terrific start, Pat Mills netted 8pts to lift his squad to a 10-4 after 2'30 in the first quarter. This period was played with a high energy from both teams with many fastbreaks. Paolo Prestes did a great job inside. Andrew Ogilvy scored the last basket of the quarter after a good team play, Australia was leading 19-14. The second quarter was all Brazil. They tied the game with a three-pointer, 19-19. Brazil played a good 2-3 zone defense which really bothered the Emus who missed many long distance shots. Pat Mills did his best to keep his team alive with 16pts in the first half but the brazilians played much better. Half-time came on a 29-41 lead for the south americans.
The second half started with a three-point shot from Shannon Seebohm, he scored 10pts in this game. The australian full-court press defense really changed the game. Ogilvy and Prestes played a tough game under the basket. The brazilians lead was cut to 9, 42-51, after 6'40. Ben Louis hit a 16-meter long ave maria buzzer-beater at the end of the period to bring his team back. Brazil was only leading 55-59 but the momentum was all Emus. Australia played a great defense to start, they outscored Brazil 9-2 in the first 1'30 to take back the lead, 58-57. Shannon Seebohm hit another three-pointer with 2'50 left and AJ Ogilvy scored 2pts near the basket one minute left to give a 4-point lead, 70-66, to the Emus. Seebohm could have extended the lead to 6 but brazilian forward Caue blocked his shot on a fast-break. Caue was the man of the last minute. After this decisive block, he took an offensive rebounds and scored a 2+1 action to cut the aussie lead to 1, 70-69, with only 41 seconds left of the clock. Betinho scored a tough basket on a reverse dribble to give the lead to his side, 70-71, with 14" remaining. Marty Clarke called a play during the timeout and the Boys had to score to stay alive. Pat Mills penetrated on the left side then feed Ogilvy with a great pass, the center dunked the ball. The game was almost over, Australia was leading 72-71 with 6 seconds to play. Caue took the ball and went all the way to the hoop, he jumped to the basket and scored a tough basket over Ogilvy and Ben Dowdell! 73-74, the brazilians started to celebrate but the game wasn't over yet. There was a last second to play. Pat Mills found a good shot from the three-point line but the attempt fell short and the Emus lost their first game of the tournament, the most important one.
Mills made his best game of the tournament, Ogilvy was terrific as usual. Shannon Seebohm was a solid third scoring option while Dowdell and Goulding did a good rebounding game. The rest of the squad failed to provide a good help on the offensive end.
“We are disappointed,” Head Coach Marty Clarke said. “I couldn't have asked for anymore effort, they played their hearts out. We did everything we needed to do but just didn't finish off in a couple of areas. We missed too many free throws and some crucial turnovers including two in the last seven seconds cost us five points. We had a lot of good looks that just didn't fall and three-point plays didn't go quite go in but that's the way it goes. Right down to the last second the boys made all the right decisions but on the night we just didn't finish off our work and when you play bad and lose you understand that but we played well tonight, so it is disappointing. We have two games to go and we want to be the best team not in the medal rounds so it's going to be hard to get them back up but if they respond like they have all week we will be fine.”
Stats:
Andrew Ogilvy 22pts 7/11FG 6rbs 33min, Pat Mills 19pts 7/13FG 6ast 36min, Shannon Seebohm 10pts 3/9FG 23min, Ben Dowdell 9pts 1/6FG 10rbs 34min, Chris Goulding 5pts 2/9FG 7rbs 26min, Kevin Probert 4pts 1/2FG 3min, Ben Louis 3pts 1/4FG 4st 18min, Nate Tomlinson 0pts 0/0FG 5min, Cameron Gliddon 0pts 0/2FG 9min, Daniel Johnson 0pts 0/0FG 5min, Daniel Jackson 0pts 0/0FG 8min, Ben Smith DNP

Quarterfinals:
USA - Argentina: 112-86
France - Spain: 100-83
Serbia - Turkey: 94-56
Brazil - Australia: 73-72



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BELGIUM

Antwerp Transfer News -by Peter Buyse


Antwerp Giants signed American forward Brandon Gay (203-F-82, college: San Diego).
Gay played the past 2 seasons for German Bundesliga team Trier.
He played at San Diego till the 2004-2005 season when he moved to Germany.

Averaged 12.0 abd 5.4 rpg the past season for Trier.

Had averages of 17.4 and 6.6 rpg during his senior year at San Diego and was selected to the All WCC Team.



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BRAZIL

Brazil surpasses Australia to clinch semis -by Eurobasket News

Brazil U19 - Austrlia U19 73:72
Australia lost just a single game but it was enough to got eliminated from the U19 Wotld Championship in Serbia. Having entered the quarterfinal clash against Brazil with a perfect 6-0 record Australia hoped to stay unbeaten and book their semifinal spot. However it was not the task for South Americans.
Australia started to dominate the game right from the start and secured a 19:14 lead after the opening frame. Patrick Mills (182-G-88) provided 10 points for Australia to maintain their favourite status. Brazil however repsonded immediatelly and limiting Australia to just 10 points in the second frame spurred ahead 41:29 at halftime.
Andrew Ogilvy (211-C/F-88) was the main offensive threat from the Boomers in the third quarter as he nailed 8 points to cut the deficit to 3 points 52:55. Australia then enjoyed a 6:0 run to start the fourth frame and appeared leading by a single point. Both teams kept it close from now on before brazil grabbed a 1-point advantage with 18 seconds left on the clock. Andrew Ogilvy replied with a jumper to regain the lead but Brazil had the last word. Caue De Freitas sank a jump shot to bring victory to Brazil.
Jose Nardi Duarte (193-G/F-88) scored 23 points and 5 steals for Brazil. Paulo Prestes (208-C-88) contributed 15 points and 14 rebounds in a winning effort for Brazilian squad. Andrew Ogilvy was a usual contributor for Australia with 22 points and 6 rebounds. Patrick Mills provided 19 points, 6 assists and 6 steals in a defeat.
The win saw Brazil advance into the semifianl where they will meet Serbia today. Australia will play in classification round against Turkey today.

Brazil U19: Jose Nardi Duarte 23 points, Paulo Prestes 15+14 boards
Australia U19: Andrew Ogilvy 22, Patrick Mills 19.



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BULGARIA

Israel came back strong in second contest -by Valentin Anguelov
Israel came back strong in the second friendly game versus Bulgaria and won 89 - 82. In very tense game in which referees blew the whistle for 63 fouls total visitors had a control during the most of the game and took a little revenge for yesterday's loss.
Israel led from the middle of the second quarter when they went on 8-0 run to grab 36-28 lead for good in the game. Bulgarians never gave up and tried to come back. However thanks to the very hot shooting night (11 three pointers from 23 attempts) Israel kept the distance.
Both teams played very hard as they are trying to reach optimal form for the additional qualifications for Eurobasket 2007 in Spain.
Meir Tapiro was in the middle of success for Israel as he managed 13 points, 10 assists and 6 rebounds. Yotam Halperin managed 19 points, as 14 of them came in the second half.
For Bulgaria Jordan Bozov ended with game high 23 points while Asen Velikov added 13 points and 4 assists.
Bulgarian coach Konstantin Papazov gave a rest to his best player Todor Stoykov. Other players that didn't take a part in this friendly contest were Nikolay Traykov, Aleksandar Gruev, Tencho Banev and Dimitar Anguelov.
Tomorrow Israel play with Macedonia their last game while in Sofia. Macedonians arrived earlier today to take part of upcoming International Tournament “Vivatel Cup” this coming Monday in Universiada Hall. Other teams to play in this tournament are Georgia, Denmark and host team Bulgaria.

FULL STATS FROM SECOND GAME BULGARIA-ISRAEL


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CANADA

Canada survives extra time to edge China -by Eurobasket News
Canada U19 - China U19 94:90 (OT)
Canadian U19 squad posted a tough win over Chinese team yesterday edging them in overtime 94:90. Canada led at halftime 38:35 but did not prevent a late comeback effort form China. Chinese players spurred to a 26:22 fourth frame to force overtime. However it was not enough to overcome Canada as Devoe Joseph (191-G-90) proved the difference at the end and lifted his side to a difficult victory at the end. He nailed 29 points and dished out 8 assists to pace Canadian team. Boris Bakovic (201-F-88) contributed another 20 points and 8 rebounds for the winners. China were led by Ba Zhichao (200-F-89) with 21 points and 6 rebounds. Xu Yong (202-F-89) provided 19 points in a losing case.
China managed to outrebound their opponents 48:43. At the same time Canada pulled down more offensive rebounds 18:12. China also shot more accurately from the field 47.2% comparing to 41.1% from Canada. However Canada force China to as manay as 20 turnovers and capitalized on it.
Canada will now face Lithuania in the next game of the classification round. China takes on Korea today.

Canada U19: Devoe Joseph 29 points, Boris Bakovic 20
China U19: Ba Zhichao 21, Xu Yong 19.

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CHINA

China Loses Intensity and Blows Game to Korea -- Updated -by Arthur Volbert

China, having played its heart out in yesterday's overtime loss to Canada, had nothing left against Korea today and lost to the Koreans 91-75. China finished 12th in the Under-19 Championship.

This again shows the deficiencies of Chinese basketball on the junior level. China could not maintain its competitive intensity for two games in a row, and lost to the Koreans who had rested in yesterday's blowout loss to Lithuania. Canada, on the other hand was prepared to play a competitive game against a strong Lithuanian team, and lost by a margin of 86-75. China would probably have been blown out by 50 against Lithuania if it had won yesterday.

China must work on developing its game on the junior level if it is to eventually earn its place at the top of international basketball. There are about 25 Chinese for every Korean, so China can and does produce players of superior physical ability. But it is taking time for China to overcame its past ways of playing basketball, when the game was viewed primarily as a recreational sport rather than as a competitive sport. Because of this, the unwritten rules of the Chinese game shunned intensity and physical contact. China must play with more intensity on the junior level, else China promotes too many of the wrong junior players and prematurely cuts those who would thrive in a game with a greater intensity level. It would also immensely help China to keep accurate ages for its players. Age matters. The lack of accurate record-keeping on ages also causes China to both advance and cut the wrong players.

It still may be another 10 years before China even starts to maximize its basketball potential, but in games like yesterday's game you can see that this potential is there. In today's game you see just how far China has yet to go. I mentioned yesterday that Korea was resting up for this game, and was correct in my fears that China would not be prepared. But maybe this loss to Korea will convince China that it must reform the way it plays junior basketball. The truly top young Chinese players, who arose from this not-so-perfect system, are being trained to up their intensity level. But these young Chinese players are with the national teams and were not here.

China led 27-26 after one quarter and the game was tied 47-47 at the half. But then China went to sleep in the third quarter and was outscored 25-12. So it trailed 72-59 after three quarters and the Koreans widened their lead to 16 in the fourth.

Xu Yong led China with 24 points but only hit 8 of 22 shots and committed 6 turnovers. Li Xiaoxu (204-C-90), who has played two years for Liaoning in the CBA, had a good game with 14 points and 9 rebounds. Ba Zhichao had 8 points on 3 of 10 shooting plus 5 rebounds. Su Wei had 8 points, 3 rebounds and 3 turnovers in 17 minutes and Wang Zheng had 7 points and 8 rebounds in 13 minutes. Yang Qin had 5 points, 1 rebound, 1 assist, no turnovers and 5 personal fouls. 203 cm center Kim Jin Soo, who plays high school ball in the United States, led Korea with 25 points and 16 rebounds. 190 cm guard Jung Changyoung had 16 points, 3 rebounds, 7 assists, 7 steals and 2 turnovers.

Korea had 13 turnovers to 18 for China. It had 15 steals to 6 for China. But most remarkably it had 43 rebounds to 35 for China despite China's two 7-footers. The tallest Korean player is 6-8. Korea shot 49 percent from the field to 37 percent from China showing China's inability to maintain intensity on defense. Korea hit 57 percent of its two-point shots to 43.5 percent for China. Korea only hit 2 of 13 3-pointers, but China only hit 6 of 24.


BoxScore:
http://www.serbia2007.fiba.com/pages/eng/fe/07/fiba/u19men/scheResu/p/eventid//gamename/A/groupname/53/langlc//roundid/5648/fe_scheStat_boxScor.html

Korea 26 21 25 19 91
China 27 20 12 16 75

-

The USA defeated France today 78-75 and Serbia defeated Brazil 89-74. Serbia, with the homecourt advantage, will play the USA for the title tomorrow. France will play Brazil for third place. Australia will play Argentina for fifth and Spain will play Turkey for seventh.

Other Scores:
ARG vs ESP 78-75
TUR vs AUS 67-82
LTU vs CAN 86-75
SRB vs BRA 89-74
USA vs FRA 78-75



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COCABA

Day 3 recap: Only Mexico is undefeated -by Gianni Pascucci

Afer that Mexico humiliated Guatemala 125-69, Costa Rica defeated Nicaragua, and El Salvador needed of an overtime to prevail 79-72 over Honduras. The regular time, in fact, ended 66-66, and the veterans Miguel Banos (186-F/C-84) and Arturo Mata (183-G/F-71) led the home team in the overtime. Banos was the game top scorer with 16, Mata added 12 pts, and Schacun Malave (200-F/C-79, college: New York Tech) scored 13 pts and was very important under the boards. William Waterhouse (200-C-75) led Honduras with 15 pts, Rony Palacios (190-G-77) Selvin Connor (200-F-74) and Walter Rodriguez added 12 pts each. The standings are now as follows:
1. Mexico 3-0 344 251 93 6
2. Costa Rica 2-1 265 236 29 5
3.El Salvador 2-1 207 214 -7 5
4. Honduras 1-2 213 220 -7 4
5. Nicaragua 1-2 243 278 -35 4
6. Guatemala 0-3 190 263 -73 3

with the help of Jaime Arevalo



Mexico routs Honduras -by Gianni Pascucci
In the fourth game of the COCABA Championship, played yesterday afternoon in San Salvador, Team Mexico overwhelmed Honduras 145-43, led by Omar Quintero (183-G-81, agency: Paris Global Sports, college: S.Nazarene) with 21 pts, Victor Mariscal (198-F-72) with 20 and Romel Beck (202-G/F-82, college: UNLV) with 19. William Waterhouse (200-C-75) was the best in Honduras, with 12. The last game of the competition is scheduled for tonight vs. home team El Salvador, and the superior size and experience of Mexico allow to forecast another easy win.

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E.CHAMPS U18

Scotland reigns in Division C -by Eurobasket News
Group D

Scotland and Wales both comfortably beat Moldova and faced each other in the decisive game in Group D of the European championship in Wales. Sotland left no chances for the home side handing them a 86:62 defeat. Daniel Donelly chipped in 20 points and grabbed 9 rebounds for Scotland. Daniel Sutherland added 19 points to help Scotland clinch the top spot. Wales responded with 19 points from Christopher Ian Pierce.

Moldova U18 - Wales U18 62:57
Moldova: Mihail Isac 16 points
Wales: Jordan Seeley 31

Scotland U18 - Moldova U18 80:55
Scotland: Daniel Donelly 24+12 boards
Moldova: Alexandr Popov 15+15 boards

Scotland U18 - Wales U18 86:62
Scotland: Daniel Donelly 20+9 boards
Wales: Christopher Ian Pierce 19

Group E

In the first game of this round Monaco thrashed Gibraltar 80:65 to stay on top. Posint strong first half Monaco faced little problems on their way to the victory. Kevin Bolla ensured 28 points and 9 rebounds for Monaco. Dylan Gomez replied with 30 points anb 13 boards for Gibraltar.
In the next day encounter Andorra needed some heroics to edge Monaco 86:84. They trailed by 3 points at the start of the final frame but survived dramatic dying seconds to come out victorious. Jose Del Castillo provided 22 points and 5 assists for Andorra. Monaco were paced by Mauri Tepa with 39 points and 8 rebounds.
Andorra then crushed Gibraltar in the last round game to claim the top spot in Group E. Andorra faced little obstacles on the way to their second win as they led by as many as 35 points at halftime. Jose Del Castillo once again topscored for Andorra with 37 points, 11 rebounds and 10 assists. Sam Buxton had 25 points and 14 boards for Gibraltar.

Monaco U18 - Gibraltar U18 80:65
Monaco: Kevin Bolla 28 points, Maui Tepa 20
Gibraltar: Dylan Gomez 30+13 boards

Andorra U18 - Monaco U18 86:84
Andorra: Jose Del Castillo 22+12 boards, Daniel Morfeita 20+12
Monaco: Maui Tepa 39

Andora U18 - Gibraltar U18 129:79
Andorra: Jose Del Castillo 37+11 boards +10 assists
Gibraltar: Sam Buxton 25+14 boards

Group F

In Group F Azerbaijan grabbed their first win at the tournament against San Marino 74:66. The teams kept it close in the first half but Azerbaijan rushed ahead in the fourth and clebrated a victory. Rufat Mahmudzade finished with 18 points and 12 boards for the winners. Enrico Zanotti responded with 12 points for San Marino.
Malta then proved their strength against San Marino handing them a 95:76 loss. Samuel Deguara (223-C-91) netted 26 points and collected 17 boards for Malta.
In the decisive game in Group F Malta edged Azerbaijan 78:72. Azerbaijan led comfortably 41:29 at halftime but Malta revived in the second half and clinched a narrow win at the end.

Azerbaijan U18 - San Marino U18 74:66
Azerbaijan U18: Rufat Mahmudzade 18+12 boards
San Marino U18: Enrico Zanotti 16+14 boards

Malta U18 - San Marino U18 95:76
Malta: Samuel Deguara 26+17 boards
San Marino: Teodoro Casadei (180-G-89) 26

Malta U18 - Azerbaijan U18 78:72
Malta: Nigel Sultana 29
Azerbaijan: Rufat Mahmudzade 32+20 boards

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EGYPT

can Egyptians do it? -by Andrew Youssef

The final of all african games will between Egypt and Angola.The best 2 team in Africa will play the final,Angola with their player professionals whom play in european league VS Egyptian player whom play in Egyptian league except Ahmed Isma'el who play in Lebanon.

who can get the gold medal and add another medal to his country.Till now EGYPT in the first by (56 gold-52 silver-48 bronze) while ANGOLA in the 16 by(2gold-1silver-6bronze).
can EGYPTIANS add another gold medal to support their position in the medal table in the first or ANGOLA add another gold medal to raise it from 2 only to 3 and get the position 13 in the table medal.
This game will be return of EGYPT to competitions and show that EYPTIAN federation have a great plan to national team from one side and the other side coach BRIDRAGE with his assistant ELSHARONI and EMAD ELDIN succes in their mission in All African games in Algeria.

WE WILL WAIT THE GOLD MEDAL AND CONGRATULATIONS FOR AFRICA



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EL SALVADOR

Day 3 recap: Only Mexico is undefeated -by Gianni Pascucci

Afer that Mexico humiliated Guatemala 125-69, Costa Rica defeated Nicaragua, and El Salvador needed of an overtime to prevail 79-72 over Honduras. The regular time, in fact, ended 66-66, and the veterans Miguel Banos (186-F/C-84) and Arturo Mata (183-G/F-71) led the home team in the overtime. Banos was the game top scorer with 16, Mata added 12 pts, and Schacun Malave (200-F/C-79, college: New York Tech) scored 13 pts and was very important under the boards. William Waterhouse (200-C-75) led Honduras with 15 pts, Rony Palacios (190-G-77) Selvin Connor (200-F-74) and Walter Rodriguez added 12 pts each. The standings are now as follows:
1. Mexico 3-0 344 251 93 6
2. Costa Rica 2-1 265 236 29 5
3.El Salvador 2-1 207 214 -7 5
4. Honduras 1-2 213 220 -7 4
5. Nicaragua 1-2 243 278 -35 4
6. Guatemala 0-3 190 263 -73 3

with the help of Jaime Arevalo



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FRANCE

ProA & B : Market news -by Aurelien Hipp

*Adam Hess (201-G/F-81, college: William & Mary) leaves Germany for Roanne, where he will replace Aaron Harper (left to Mariupol). Hess posted 14.5ppg 4.5rpg 1.1apg and took part to an NBA Summer league this year.

*Cholet signed Justin Doellman (206-F-85, agency: Octagon) from Xavier University. This power-forward who loves to play in the perimeter posted 13.7ppg 5.5rpg 1.7apg 1.1apg as a senior. The team also extended Tony Dobbins (195-G-81, college: Richmond) who ended the 2006-2007 season posting 9.8ppg 6.8rpg 2.3spg in 19 games.


*St-Etienne signed Yuanta Holland (202-F/C-78, college: Dayton) and Maxime Renaud (208-C-84, agency: Octagon).Holland already played in France (Boulazac) where he posted 12.7ppg 5.0rpg in 2005-2006. He then went back to Switzerland (he spent 3 seasons in Boncourt), and posted 20.8ppg 7.0rpg for defending champion Monthey. Renauld also was a player of Boulazac where he posted 4.3ppg 2.3rpg. Both players were teammates in 2005-2006.



*****************************************************
INDIA

Street Basketball plans for India -by Anil Kumar
'Street Basketball', a popular spin-off of the regular game of
basketball which is now storming across Asian countries is being
introduced in India for the first time by the Trivandrum District
Basketball Association.

Proposed to be used by the TDBA as a method of popularizing the sport
of Basketball, the rules of the Street Basketball games have been
framed and is being first introduced as part of the One Day
Basketball Carnival scheduled to be held at the Central Stadium
Basketball courts , Trivandrum on Sunday 5th August 2008

The game to be played on a 3 against 3 format across a Half court will
have a duration of only 10 minutes ( 2 halves of 5 minutes each) with
2 substitutes per team. Each time the ball possession is taken by the
opponent team, they would have to bring the ball outside the 3 point
zone and restart.

This event being introduced on a competiive format for the first time
in India is being held for the High Schools of Trivandrum. It is
anticipated that more than 24 school teams would be taking part in
this event and the last date of entry is 31st July 2007.

The game is held under a entertainment environment with music and only
one referee to manage the game.

As part of the campaign process for this new style of Basketball
promotion, a meeting with almost all leading schools were held today
at the Trivandrum Tennis Club to discuss the modalities on effectively
promoting this programme among school children as part of the
Basketball Carnival on 5th Aug.

As a next step, the TDBA is working to source suitable infrastructure
of actually taking the game to the streets with movable Basketball
boards across street corners during the coming season itself.

Street Basketball is one of the most popular game promotions worldwide
and is sure to help boost the following for the regular game as well.TDBA

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

Galil signs Brown -by Elad Zeevi
Hapoel Galil Elyon signed their second foreign player for the upcoming season - Clif Brown (200-F-84, agency: Court Side). after signing Chester Simmons for another year earlyer this summer, Galil streangthen themselves with Brown, a young forward from Niagara University, who will play outside the U.S for the first time. last season in Niagara, Brown posted 16.3 points and 9.7 rebounds per game.

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

Pozzecco close to Vidivici Bologna -by Stefano Pini

Legea Scafati inked the power forward Hector Romero (202-F-80, college: New Orleans), that last seasons had good numbers at Olimpia Larissa before ending the season at Murcia for the playoff.
Portsmouth Invitational Tournament's MVP DaShaun Wood (180-G-85) will be the new Tisettanta Cantù's pointguard.

Lottomatica Roma will loan Daniele Bonessio (197-G/F-88) to Jesi for next season.

Rumors: Vidivici Bologna should announce soon the deal with Gianmarco Pozzecco (185-G-72) for the next season. At he same time, Fabio Di Bella (187-G-78) should be traded. Armani Jeans Milano made an offer to Josh Powell (206-F-83, college: N.Carolina St.), Benetton Treviso thinks to Wang Zhizhi (214-C-79), Cimberio Varese showed interest for Sandro Nicevic (210-C-76, agency: Beo Basket), while Scavolini Pesaro seems oriented toward Ron Slay (203-F-81, agency: David Lee services, college: Tennessee) and Jeff Graves (206-C/F, college: Kansas).



*****************************************************
JAPAN

Landa named Fukuoka Rizing coach -by JD
Howie Landa, one of the finest U.S. junior college basketball coaches of all time, is the Rizing Fukuoka's first head coach, the bj-league expansion team announced. He agreed to a one-year contract, which begins September 1. Landa, 75, graduated from Central High School in Philadelphia in 1950 and then starred at Lebanon (Pa.) Valley College. He played in the Eastern Pro League in the 1950s. Landa later coached at Mercer (N.J.) County College for 26 years, winning the National Junior Collegiate Athletic Association title two times in four appearances and earning national coach of the year honors three times. Landa also earned a paycheck as a New York Knicks assistant coach during his distinguished career. He joined Jerry Tarkanian's UNLV staff in 1989 and was an interim head coach there in 1994. He also served five years as an assistant coach for the university's Runnin' Rebels' women's squad. In recent years, Landa has worked as a WNBA scout, been an assistant coach for the Phoenix Mercury and authored a book on women's basketball. In addition, Landa is a member of 10 basketball halls of fame.

*****************************************************
KENYA

The International Youth Basketball Championship Venue Nairobi Kenya April 2008 -by Jay
The international youth basketball tournament is an event that is meant to re awaken the spirit of the game worldwide more so the youth who hold the foundation key for the continued prosperity of the game of basket abll that is suffering owing to the attention being accorded to soccer.It is imperative that long standing initiatives such as this be put in place to divert attention and also to chastise efforts towards the development of basket ball as asport it is for this reason that I have decided to organize this championships which will take place in Nairobi Kenya for a period of one week the event is meant to bring together the youth from all the five continents its theme is (REJUVANATING THE SPIRIT OF THE GAME) A lot of effort is needed to ensure the success of the event which is meant to be an annual festivity. Fianacialas well as technical assistance is needed from parts of the globe. The event has a chance of creating a very powerful corporate advertising as well as brand building platform. thus its status symbol to the world is very huge I am looking forward to the enormous task of hosting the event in Africa(Kenya) and a lot of youth will tricle into the various international basket ball arenas in Europe, Australia and the greater USA.
Courtesy of Javan Odhiambo a sports consultant.

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

Lithuania dismantles Korea in classification round -by Eurobasket News
Lithuania U19 - Korea U19 127:74
Lithuania overwhelmed Korea in yesterday's classification round encounter. They consequently won all four quarters en route to a stunning 127:74 victory. Korea simply had little defensive options to somehow prevent a smashing defeat. Lithuania had 7 plyers to score in double fugures. They also drained 76 points in the second half after Korea's defence simply collapsed. Marius Valukonis (196-F-88) and Rokas Grinius (201-C-88) scored 24 points apiece to lead Lithuanian team. Martynas Gecevicius added 15 points, 4 rebounds and 5 assists for the winners. Byun Ki Hoon (187-G/F-89) nailed 16 points for Korea. Lithuania dominated the boards 57:25. They also limited Korean team to just 36.2% from the field and forced Korean players to 22 turnovers.
Lithuania will now take on Canada in the next classification round. Korea plays against China later today.

Lithuania U19: Marius Valukonis 24 points, Rokas Grinius 24
Korea U19: Byun Ki Hoon 16, Kim Hyun Ho (184-G-88) 12.

*****************************************************
LEBANON

Lebanon Loses The Jones Cup In The Final -by Jay
Lebanon 81-87 Philipines
(14:15,21:21,24:23,22:28)
Fadi El Khatib (197-F-79) best wing in the champion
and Joe Vogel (211-C-73, college: Colorado St.) best number 5

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

Lithuania dismantles Korea in classification round -by Eurobasket News
Lithuania U19 - Korea U19 127:74
Lithuania overwhelmed Korea in yesterday's classification round encounter. They consequently won all four quarters en route to a stunning 127:74 victory. Korea simply had little defensive options to somehow prevent a smashing defeat. Lithuania had 7 plyers to score in double fugures. They also drained 76 points in the second half after Korea's defence simply collapsed. Marius Valukonis (196-F-88) and Rokas Grinius (201-C-88) scored 24 points apiece to lead Lithuanian team. Martynas Gecevicius added 15 points, 4 rebounds and 5 assists for the winners. Byun Ki Hoon (187-G/F-89) nailed 16 points for Korea. Lithuania dominated the boards 57:25. They also limited Korean team to just 36.2% from the field and forced Korean players to 22 turnovers.
Lithuania will now take on Canada in the next classification round. Korea plays against China later today.

Lithuania U19: Marius Valukonis 24 points, Rokas Grinius 24
Korea U19: Byun Ki Hoon 16, Kim Hyun Ho (184-G-88) 12.

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MALAYSIA

Malaysian national team in bane -by Hector Santos
KUALA LUMPUR: A lack of commitment from players in the national men's basketball team preparing for the SEA Games in Thailand has become a bane for national coach Sim Sin Heng.

Sin Heng said most of the players trained only on a part-time basis as many were working during the day and were bogged down by family commitments.

“Since I'm aware of their predicament and the fact that we need their services, I have been flexible in arranging their training time but I'm worried that it might not be enough,” said Sin Heng.

Malaysia finished third behind Indonesia and the Philippines in the South East Asia Basketball Association (SEABA) Championship held in Thailand from May 24 to 27. Malaysia beat Thailand and Singapore but lost to Indonesia and the Philippines.

“Although our team are ranked among the top three teams in the region, we must prepare well as hosts Thailand can pose a serious threat apart from Indonesia and the Philippines,” he said, adding that the Philippines are the favourites to win the gold in Thailand.

Basketball was not included at the 2005 SEA Games in Manila because the Philippines were under suspension by the World Basketball Federation.

“Based on our recent performances, I believe we can take a shot at the silver in Thailand but to do that we must double-up our training.

“We do not have many tournaments or time left. The team's last international tournament will be in Iran during the Islamic Country University Championships from Nov 12 to 20.

“Before that we will have the National Championships from Aug 8- 26 in Jerantut, Pahang,” said Sin Heng


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

Last market news -by Gianni Pascucci

Halcones UV Xalapa introduced to media their new head coach, Andy Stoglin , from USA, and new import player Scott Freymond (188-G-80, college: Cent.Washington)

. Lechugueros de Leon will be coached by Javier Mendoza (head coach), Omar Mendoza and David Gutierrez (assistants). New LNBP team Angeles de Puebla introduced to media their first four players: Javier Pacheco, Oscar Yarcia, Jesus Luevano and Aristeo Reyes. Miguel Angel Diaz will be the team GM and Alfredo Villegas will serve as the Team Director. The Angeles Head Coach will be Argentinean Horacio Segui



Mexico routs Honduras -by Gianni Pascucci
In the fourth game of the COCABA Championship, played yesterday afternoon in San Salvador, Team Mexico overwhelmed Honduras 145-43, led by Omar Quintero (183-G-81, agency: Paris Global Sports, college: S.Nazarene) with 21 pts, Victor Mariscal (198-F-72) with 20 and Romel Beck (202-G/F-82, college: UNLV) with 19. William Waterhouse (200-C-75) was the best in Honduras, with 12. The last game of the competition is scheduled for tonight vs. home team El Salvador, and the superior size and experience of Mexico allow to forecast another easy win.

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

A team for the CAN 2007 -by Carlos Pereira
Jean-Paul Rebatet a french coach is the Morocco national team coach, he are training a lot of palyers for the Angola CAN.
This are the players:
Mesbahi Zakaria (ASS) : 29/03/79. : 1 m,93. : 82 kg.
Bekkas Nabil (MAS) : 09/09/79. : 2 m,02. : 95 kg.
M'Saâdia Adnane (RCA) : 12/06/83. : 1 m,92. : 84 kg.
Najah Abderrahim (RCA) : 20/11/84. : 1 m,98. : 95 kg.
Mouaq Mohamed (FUS) : 22/03/78. : 1 m,90. : 86 kg.
Khalfi Mustapha (IRT) : 01/01/80. : 1 m,76. : 72 kg.
Bourouiss Zouhaer (ASS) : 06/08/83. : 1 m,79. : 80 kg.
Bassim Houari (MAS) : 26/01/77. : 1 m,99. : 94 kg.
Zouita Abdelhakim (KAC) : 12/08/86. : 1 m,99. : 86 kg.
Idrissi Younès (WAC) : 13/04/84. : 2 m,04. : 100 kg.
Gourdou Soufiane (ASS) : 21/05/85. : 2 m,11. : 95 kg.
Bouhlal Mounir (IRT) : 01/01/79. : 2 m,02.: 89 kg.

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

Tall Blacks outshine Venezuela at home -by Eurobasket News
New Zealand - Venezuela 99:73
New Zealand Tall Blacks had a confident start of the test series against Venezuela. Kiwis had little doubts on the way to their first win against Venezuela in Napier. Kirk Penney (195-G-80, college: Wisconsin) scored the first two points for New Zealand and they never looked back from that moment. Pero Cameron (200-F-74, agency: Duran International) and Tony Rampton hit early three pointers to drive New Zealand to a 8:0 lead in the opening frame.
Tall Blacks secured an 8-point advantage after the opening quarter 28:20. They managed to extend the lead to 54:37 at halftime with a help of constant long range bombardment. Venezuela lacked to deliver offensively and did not seem recovering after three quarters 54:79. New Zealand easily cruised to an overall win at the end and once again proved their ambitions before the qualifying series against Australia in August.
Kirk Penney led the action with 24 points for Kiwis. Phill Jones (196-G-74) nailed 14 points off the bench, while Pero Cameron provided 8 points and 5 rebounds for the winners. Venezuela were paced by 12 points from Hector Romero (202-F-80, college: New Orleans). Miguel Marriaga added 9 points in a loss.
New Zealand outrebounded Latin American team 45:32 and forced them to 17 turnovers. Kiwis also converted solid 42.1% from beyond the arc.

New Zealand: Kirk Penney 24 points, Phill Jones 14, Pero Cameron 8
Venezuela: Hector Romero 12, Miguel Marriaga 9.

*****************************************************
NIGERIA

AAG: Nigeria Tigress set to defend title, confront Senegal in final -by Olusegun Ikuesan
Nigeria senior female national team, D'Tigress Friday night qualified for the grand finale of the basketball event of the 9th All Africa Games in Algiers, Algeria.

The Nigeria ladies coached by the the trio of Kevin Cook, Scott Nnaji defeated hard fighting Mozambique 57-46 in the second semi-finals.

The team will now play Senegal who defeated Angola 71-49 points Sunday for a repeat of the 2003 finals that involves the two side.

While Angola and Mozambique battle for the bronze today.

Semi-finals results - Women

Senegal 71-49 Angola

Nigeria 57-46 Mozambique

Men

Egypt 67-55 Nigeria

Angola 74-60 Mali

3rd Place pairing - Women - 21/07/07

Angola Vs Mozambique

Men - 21/07/07

Nigeria Vs Mali

Finals - Women - 22/07/07

Nigeria Vs Senegal

Men - 22/07/07

Angola Vs Egypt

*****************************************************
PHILIPPINES

ALASKA BACK ON TOP AFTER 7-YEAR DROUGHT -by Hector Santos
The Alaska Aces have successfully scratched a seven-year itch.

Led by season MVP Willie Miller and Best Import Rosell Ellis, Alaska eked out a pulsating 99-96 Game 7 win over Talk ‘N Text before a jampacked Cuneta Astrodome crowd Friday night to win the 2007 Talk ‘N Text-PBA Fiesta Conference.
It was the Aces' first conference championship in seven years, or since winning the 2000 All-Filipino Cup over Purefoods, curiously also over losing coach Derick Pumaren. It was also Alaska's 12th championship since joining the PBA in 1987 with all 12 crowns under head coach Tim Cone.

Ellis got away with a near triple-double job with 30 points, 10 rebounds and nine assists while Miller added 22 points, six rebounds and five assists as the Aces edged out the Phone Pals in their classic showdown which had Alaska coming back from a 2-3 series deficit.

For the Talk ‘N Text franchise, it was the third time the Phone Pals have squandered a 3-2 lead in a best-of-seven series but not without going down fighting hard to the finish.

They eventually yielded the crown as J.J. Sullinger missed a go-for-broke three-point attempt at the buzzer, sending the Aces and their supporters to a frenzied celebration and denying the Phone Pals in their quest for only a second crown in franchise history.

“”This is one which is so hard but that makes it sweeter,” said a relieved Cone in the post-game interview, still wet from all the champagne that flowed oncourt.

“We went through a wringer against San Miguel (in the semis) and against Talk ‘N Text here. And doubts on whether we can come back (after falling behind 2-3) also make this championship sweet,” he added.

The two teams battled through 12 lead changes and 12 deadlocks with the last at 94-all before the Aces subdued the Phone Pals at the finish.

Miller, who was named Finals MVP, banged away a crucial jumper then stole off Macmac Cardona, setting up Ellis for an equally important twinner as the Aces surged ahead to stay at 98-94 with time down to 44.5 seconds.

The Aces had a chance to put the game away early as when Sullinger committed a turnover in the ensuing play. Quickly fouled by Donbel Belano, Miller, however, muffed two charities with time down to 28 seconds.

After Talk ‘N Text closed in at 96-98 on a close stab by Jay-jay Washington, Reynel Hugnatan had his own two missed free throws, giving the Phone Pals a chance to send the game into overtime.

Alas, Cardona, who erupted for 29 points, opted to pass up a chance for a drive, kicking the ball out to Belano for a possible game-winning three-pointer.

But Belano missed the target, immediately causing the TNT guard to shed tears, sensing imminent defeat.

Cardona came out smoking, scoring 21 points in the first half as the Pals carried an eight-point cushion into the second half.

The fired-up former La Salle Archer had 11 in the second period, including a charity he made on a technical foul incurred by Ellis in the aftermath of his verbal tussle with the Talk ‘N Text bench.

The two teams figured in four deadlocks and nine lead changes before the Phone Pals seized control on a decisive run towards the end of the second quarter.

Talk ‘N Text, which dropped to 0-3 in Game 7s, took a 26-25 edge in the first quarter where Cardona and Miller, both on a hot start, carried the scoring cudgels for their respective teams.

After scoring eight in the first period, Miller, however, slowed down in the second period, and the Phone Pals pounced on the situation to take the 53-45 halftime lead.

The scores:

Alaska 99 - Ellis 30, Miller 22, Hugnatan 16, Ferriols 9, Cortez 9, Thoss 7, Laure 3, Belasco 3, Singson 0.

Talk ‘N Text 30 - Sullinger 30, Cardona 29, Washington 12, Belano 10, De Ocampo 9, Allado 4, Carey 1, Billones 1, Pablo 0.

Quarterscores: 25-26, 45-53, 70-72, 99-96

Credits to PBA Media Bureau

Philippine NT toys Kuwait NT for the second time, 100-65 -by Hector Santos
Philippine national team handed the Kuwait national team its worst loss so far via a 100-65 en route at the at the Caruncho Sports Center in Pasig, following an 84-68 beating at the Sta. Lucia East Mall Gym last Friday.

Gabriel Norwood (196-G/F-85) led the Philippines, who took a 55-21 lead at the half, with 13 points.

Prior to its departure on July 25, Philippine NT takes a break tomorrow, returns to practice Monday morning at the Moro Lorenzo Sports Center and then attends afternoon Mass at the San Miguel building.

The team meets at Sportskamp at The Fort on Wednesday morning before proceeding to the Centennial Terminal for the afternoon flight to Tokushima.

One week to go -by May Arevalo

As expected, Team Pilipinas with Danny Seigle and James Yap, but minus Mark Caguioa and Jimmy Alapag, trounced Kuwait, 84-68, in the first game of the friendlies, at the Sta. Lucia East Grand Mall gym yesterday.


Kuwait belongs to Group B, together with top seed Lebanon, Japan, and the United Arab Emirates.

Team Pilipinas in Group A meets Iran on July 28, China B on July 29, and Jordan on the 30th.

Coach Chot Reyes predicts a three way tie in Group A, with Team Pilipinas salvaging the second spot via the quotient system. If Jordan takes the first spot and Team Pilipinas the second spot, here is how Coach Chot Reyes pictured the 8-team Quarterfinals:


Group A.

1 Jordan if not China

2 Philippines

Group B.

1 Lebanon

2 Japan

Group C.

1 Qatar

2 Kazakhstan

Group D.

1 South Korea

2 Syria


The Semis:

Philippines versus Jordan or China.

Lebanon versus South Korea or Qatar.


The Finals:

Hopefully Philippines versus Qatar.

But of course those are just scenarios. There are many other scenarios that only the actual games could reveal. One week to go before the 28th.



SEAG-bound RP NT team and PBA's SLR team to join Brunei Cup Basketball Championship 2007 -by Hector Santos
Bandar Seri Begawan, Brunei - Hi-flying basketball teams have confirmed their participation in this year's 7th Brunei Cup Basketball Championship 2007.

The teams are Darwin All Stars from Australia, last year's runner-up, Jordan All-Stars consists of Jordan national team “B” squad, RP national team (bound for Thailand South East Games), Sta. Lucia Realtors of Philippines Basketball Association, LG Sakers of South Korea and Singapore Slingers of National Basketball League Australia.

The defending champion, Philippine national team (bound for Asian Championship) will not be taking part this year due to a very tight schedule. This year championship's grand total prize money is B$35,000, the biggest prize money for basketball in this region.

It is earlier reported that the RP national team (bound for Thailand South East Games) will be consists of players from the Philippines Basketball League and former pros under the auspice of coach Junel Baculi.

The list of the participating teams was revealed following the signing ceremony between the main sponsors and the event organiser, Ace MVP Event Management Co, at the Hua Ho Manggis Mall yesterday.

The guest-of-honour who witnessed the signing ceremony was Dato Paduka Awang Haji Jemat bin Haji Ampal, the Permanent Secretary of Culture, Youth and Sport.

Signing on behalf of Ace MVP Event Management Co was its Managing Director Jackson Ting while Brunei Shell Marketing Co (main sponsor) was represented by Pengiran Hi Yasmin bin Pg Hj Mohammad, the Managing Director.

The package sponsors are: Diamond sponsor - NBT (Brunei) Sdn Bhd, Silver Sponsors - Ayamku Restaurant, Musfada Enterprise, Bronze Sponsors - LG Brand, Riverview Hotel, Copper sponsors - Singapore Motor, Sahid Sdn Bhd, Goldmyne Enterprise, Aifa Sdn Bhd, Aewon Garment & Embroidery, Lee Enterprise Company, Processta Printing and Trading Co, Kenview Enterprise Sdn Bhd and Nestle Products (Brunei) Sdn Bhd.

Radio Television Brunei (RTB) is the host broadcaster while media supporter is Brunei Press Sdn Bhd. The official ball of the tournament is Molten sponsored by Pacific Sports Pte Ltd.
Ticket sponsors for the tournament are Maju Motors Sdn Bhd, Sahid Sdn Bhd and Syarikat Yong Kian Ping.

Lebanon Loses The Jones Cup In The Final -by Jay
Lebanon 81-87 Philipines
(14:15,21:21,24:23,22:28)
Fadi El Khatib (197-F-79) best wing in the champion
and Joe Vogel (211-C-73, college: Colorado St.) best number 5

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ROMANIA

CSM Leonardo Oradea - News -by Bogdan Bocaniala

CSM Oradea made first move and transfer Mihai Racovitan (183-G-84).
Mihai played for Univ Mobitelco Cluj Napoca last 3 years. He comes from Cluj Basketball School where he begin playing under Prof. Voicu Moldovan command.

With in the years that he played in junior championship for CSS Viitorul Cluj Mihai won 5 Romanian champion titles.
Last season for Univ Mobitelco Cluj Napoca he played 17 games and had 7,8 min with 2 points, 0,4 rebounds and 0,9 assists.



European Competition -by Bogdan Bocaniala
Romania will have 3 teams playing European competition.
CSU Asesoft Ploiesti will make the step in the big world of European basketball and they will represent Romania this year in ULEB CUP.
Represented in FIBA EuroCup by Univ Mobitelco Cluj Napoca and ELBA Timisoara Romania complete the list of 3 team that play European competition.
Even thou Muresul Tirgu Mures announced they are interested to play Fiba EuroCup they renounce and said they want to be able to give the best in the championship.

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

WC U19: Serbia smashed Turkey 94:56 and advanced to the semis -by Dragan Jankovski
Serbia advanced to the semis smashing Turkey in the quarterfinal 94:56. Turkey was an equal rival just in the first five minutes after what Serbia totally dominated until the very end. Hosts finished game having 44 rebounds while Turkey had only 19. Coach Nikolic gave a chance to all players and all of them exploited it. Stefan Stojacic (197-G-89) and Milan Macvan (206-F/C-89) scored 13 points each while Stefan Markovic (191-G-88) and Aleksandar Radulovic (188-G-88) also added same digits, 12 points.
Today at 18:00h in the semis Serbia will play against Brazil who made surprise beating until that moment undefeated Australia 73:72. In the other semifinal game USA will meet France today at 20:30h. Interesting is that these four team came from the same qualifying group.

Head coach of Serbian U19 NT Miroslav Nikolic for the local newspapers said: “ We have to rest as much as we can and to prepare for Brazil who surprised Australia. Brazil has very good players, we already outplayed them once but it will be difficult for us to do the same again. We will give our best and if we don't take the medal on this WC it will be my personal failure."


Serbia - Turkey 94:56
(18:10,22:17,20:11,34:18)

Serbia: Jeremic 11, Despotovic 11 (7 as), Katnic, Markovic 12, Radulovic 12, Stojacic 13 (7 rebs), Cakarevic 2, Macvan 13 (8 rebs), Raduljica 10 (6 rebs), Marjanovic 8 (9 rebs), Cupkovic 2
DNP: Keselj (injured).
Turkey: Balbay 8 (4 rebs), Ozurganci, Hacioglu 7, Turgut 2, Ozcan 9, Cipa 5, Sevinc 12, Kocabalkan, Aydogan 1, Tunca 6, Ozcan 4 (4 rebs), Selen 2.

EC U16 on Crete: Serbia won in thriller against Israel -by Dragan Jankovski
Serbian U16 National Team won their opening game on European Championship U16 against Israel at the buzzer 53:51. In very dramatic finish just 9 seconds before the end after 2 successful free throws Israel take a lead 49:51. In the next offense Andjusic made lay-up for Serbia 51:51 and clutch player of the game Radosavljevic made a steal and scored jump shot at the buzzer for the very important opening win for Serbia. Lazar Radosavljevic (203-F-91) added 8 points and 14 rebounds while Dejan Musli (213-C-91) made double-double 13 points and 10 rebounds. No one in Israeli U19 NT had double digits.

Serbia will play today against Czech Republic at 19:00h.


Serbia - Israel 53:51
(14:15,14:11,10:13,15:12)

Serbia: Jaramaz 7 (4 rebs), Ponjavic 3, Nikolic 4, Obradovic 5, Vukasovic 2, Lekic, Andjusic 2, Radosavljevic 8 (14 rebs), Rondovic 4, Djekic 5 (5 rebs), Musli 13 (10 rebs)
DNP: Jovanovic.
Israel: Bouchman 6 (6 rebs), Dotan 9 (6 rebs), Tishman, Rotemberg 5, Ohana 5 (5 rebs), Itzhaki 2, Wolf, Nisim 7, Shamriz 9, Buchbinder, Tamir 8 (6 rebs)
DNP: Havkin.

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SINGAPORE

Slingers here to stay: Turner -by Hector Santos
Singapore Slingers Chief Executive Officer Bob Turner is adamant that his club is here to stay in an exclusive Q&A for nbl.com.au.

What have the Slingers been doing so far in terms of to recruiting players up to this point?

We're still working to restructure the company with a shareholding here in Singapore that has a dominant Australian base, that's how we set it up. Really, until that's all done, our board is held back from recruiting and going forward in 100 percent fashion like every other team. We'll know in the next week or so where they sit, but we've talked to a lot of players and we know players that are ready to come once we say we're full steam ahead. We're just sitting tight and working feverishly behind the scenes to make everything happen. Right now we have three Singaporean players who have already agreed to play with us. We've got Ben Knight here, and Mike Helms, who played for us last year, is keen to come back. He loved it here, he likes Gordie as a coach and Michael Johnson, our Basketball and Operations Manager, very much. There's a couple more guys we would really like to get, but we just need to make firm offers rather than just talk to them, and we hope to do that in the next week or so. I believe we can put together a very competitive team.



When do you hope to begin pre-season training, and are any pre-season games still a possibility?

We've already confirmed that we're playing in a tournament in Burnei at the end of August. Our coach, Gordie McLeod, is involved with the Australian team, so it's always going to be difficult to start too early. Also, last year we tried to start in July, bringing players in and all that and we found that it was really too long of a pre-season to be honest. And then Americans didn't come in until three or four weeks after that, and we didn't have the whole group together.



How much interest is there from local talent to play for the Slingers?

Well that's what we're trying to increase. Last year we had two players who didn't come in until really late, like almost the first game. It was a huge change of professional culture for them, I mean they were on the national team, but they also had full-time jobs and trained whenever they could. So all of a sudden they were full-time players training every day. It took a while to figure out if they could do it, and in fact they can do it very well. One player in particular, the improvement in his game within a four or five month period, it was like night and day. We have a third player we're talking to now that's on the national team that will also come into our structure, so we have three Singaporeans on our roster and we'll build around that. It's gonna take a while to build the standards to the level of Australia. But then, Australia has been doing it for 30 years.



How do you think that starting your pre-season later than the rest of the league will affect the team?

I coached for a long time, and most years we only got six weeks before the season and that was it. And the players that we're talking to are playing on other teams, so they're playing somewhere. Also, I think given Gordie's stature and what he knows about coaching, he'll bring them in and work them from day one. I think the Singapore Sports Council, who is our partner in this, the sports management and sports science department is exceptional. They did a great job with our team last year, keeping them on the court and getting them in shape, so I think that will be a plus for us as well.



How important is this season to the future success of the Slingers?

Well I think the most important thing is that off the court we really solidify our position here in Singapore and establish that we're not just a transported Australian team, we are a team that represents Singapore. That's a huge cultural change, and when you're a trail blazer there's going to be difficulties anyway. Last year everything was so rushed, we started the season really under done, more off the court than on the court. We made everything happen so fast that we were always chasing our tail. This year, we've met a lot of people, we're restructuring a lot of things and we have people coming in that are local and that can really help open doors. I've worked for three different NBL clubs, this is my fourth, and in my mind, it's the best situation I've ever been involved in, but at the same time it's difficult because there are so many new things. But our playing facility is exceptional and the Singapore Sports Council is excellent, there are so many plusses that we just need to turn the corner, and once we turn the corner I think we'll be one of the best organisations in the league without question.



Do you think there are opportunities for more professional teams in Singapore?

Singapore provides a unique opportunity for the NBL in that it's the only league in Australia of any sport that's actually playing week-to-week in Asia. Singapore has a huge market, and now the NBL has a foothold in that because of our entry. And yeah, it hasn't been smooth sailing in the first year but not many first year teams, like New Zealand and Cairns, had smooth sailing either. The reality is that it's going to take time. The potential is huge, we just need to get over the growing pains and then I think we'll be off and running.



How will the appointment of Wee Siew Kim as the new Chairman help the franchise?

Wee Siew Kim is very well respected here. He runs a major corporation, he's also a member of parliament, and the fact that he's now our chairman kind of cements the foundations for the sport here in Singapore which is really important. He's been really great at opening doors, his involvement has been unbelievably kindly and great for the organisation.



What are some of the organisation's plans to get more support from the people of Singapore?

We've hired a local public relations firm to work with us on getting our message out. We've talked to the People's Association, an organisation in Singapore that has 104 community clubs that are spread throughout the island and basketball is one of the main sports in all the clubs. We've met up with them a few times, and their attitude is that this is really great for Singapore and they're helping us get our message through to all of 104 community clubs, which will get the message to all the residents of Singapore. So between the media, the People's Association and sponsors that have now come on board, all of these factors are starting to build in the right direction.

Singapore Slingers to vie for Brunei Cup -by Hector Santos

Bandar Seri Begawan, Brunei - Six basketball teams have confirmed their participation in this year's 7th Brunei Cup Basketball Championship 2007.

The teams are Darwin All Stars from Australia, last year's runner-up, Jordan All-Stars consists of Jordan national team “B” squad, RP national team (bound for Thailand South East Games), Sta. Lucia Realtors of Philippines Basketball Association, LG Sakers of South Korea and Singapore Slingers of National Basketball League (NBL) Australia.

The defending champion, Philippine national team (bound for Asian Championship) will not be taking part this year due to a very tight schedule. This year championship's grand total prize money is B$35,000, the biggest prize money for basketball in this region.

Singapore Slingers which failed to have a good showing in the last NBL season will try to finish strong in this tournament. Singapore Slingers NBL's stint in the next season was earlier reported to be in jeopardy due to limited number of fans and sponsors. This tournament will serve if they indeed deserve another stint in the Australia's premier professional league.

The list of the participating teams was revealed following the signing ceremony between the main sponsors and the event organiser, Ace MVP Event Management Co, at the Hua Ho Manggis Mall yesterday.

The guest-of-honour who witnessed the signing ceremony was Dato Paduka Awang Haji Jemat bin Haji Ampal, the Permanent Secretary of Culture, Youth and Sport.

Signing on behalf of Ace MVP Event Management Co was its Managing Director Jackson Ting while Brunei Shell Marketing Co (main sponsor) was represented by Pengiran Hi Yasmin bin Pg Hj Mohammad, the Managing Director.

The package sponsors are: Diamond sponsor - NBT (Brunei) Sdn Bhd, Silver Sponsors - Ayamku Restaurant, Musfada Enterprise, Bronze Sponsors - LG Brand, Riverview Hotel, Copper sponsors - Singapore Motor, Sahid Sdn Bhd, Goldmyne Enterprise, Aifa Sdn Bhd, Aewon Garment & Embroidery, Lee Enterprise Company, Processta Printing and Trading Co, Kenview Enterprise Sdn Bhd and Nestle Products (Brunei) Sdn Bhd.

Radio Television Brunei (RTB) is the host broadcaster while media supporter is Brunei Press Sdn Bhd. The official ball of the tournament is Molten sponsored by Pacific Sports Pte Ltd.


Ticket sponsors for the tournament are Maju Motors Sdn Bhd, Sahid Sdn Bhd and Syarikat Yong Kian Ping.



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TBL

SPORTSVITE TEAMS UP WITH THE TBL TO MAKE EVERY PICKUP BASKETBALL PLAYER'S DREAM COME TRUE -by Benjamin Brinkley
Sportsvite and The Texas Basketball League know local basketball. This summer, the two organizations will partner to introduce Sportsvite's 40,000+ members to special TBL promotions and discounts on tickets, apparel and other merchandise...and to start a nationwide search for the top amateur basketball player.

"Basketball is one of Sportsvite's most popular sports, and partnering with the TBL gives our members a great opportunity to engage with professional basketball at a local level in cities across the country," said Neal Shenoy, Sportsvite's co-founder and VP for Corporate Development. "Thirty percent of our members use Sportsvite for playing basketball - managing amateur leagues, finding teams and organizing pick-up games."

"Forging stronger ties with our teams' communities and getting more adults to play and love basketball - that's essential for the TBL," said Benjamin Brinkley, TBL founder and owner. "A partnership with Sportsvite also allows us to introduce our fans to new, healthy ways to stay active and enjoy sports."

Sportsvite membership and eligibility for TBL special programs is free. To use the Sportsvite service, Internet users complete a quick athletic profile for any sport or activity they want to play. They can then use a variety of tools to quickly connect with the like-minded players and organize their existing teams.

For more information about the TBL, contact Benjamin Brinkley at (817)803-6186

More About Sportsvite
Sportsvite - www.sportsvite.com - is the premier web service for connecting recreational athletes and organizing leagues, teams and games. Sportsvite is a 2006 and 2007 Official Honoree of the Webby Awards, the leading international honors for Web sites.

THE TEXAS BASKETBALL LEAGUE ANNOUCES REVISITED ORGANIZED LEAGUE ACTIVITIES SCHEDULE -by Benjamin Brinkley
The Texas Basketball League revealed their upcoming organized league activities schedule on Saturday, July 21, 2007.

The TBL has scheduled to have several days of activities starting Wednesday, August 1, and running through Thursday, August 30, with a break over the Labor Day weekend.

Activities will be held on Metro Charter Academy, inside the gymnasium and surrounding facilities in the North Texas area, and will be $5 for general admission.

Activities in surrounding facilities in the North Texas area are closed to the general public.

There is the potential for activities times to shift over the course of OLAs, so be sure to check back to usbasket.com for the latest schedule updates.

The TBL's portion of OLAs is the final set of full-squad workouts until training camp starts on Monday, September 3, 2007.

The TBL have yet to finalize training camp dates, but the preseason period traditionally begins in early October 2007.

August Activities Schedule:
Wednesday, August 1: 7:00pm - League's Players Meeting - Arlington, Texas; Players contract negotiations will begin on this date.
Saturday, August 4: 2:00pm - League Tryout Camp 2007 (1st session) - Arlington, Texas
Sunday, August 5: 2:00pm - League Tryout Camp 2007( 2nd session) - Arlington, Texas

Sunday, August 5: 7:00pm - 2007 Supplement Draft - Arlington, Texas
( All players will need to be in attendance to be drafted to your team)

August Practice Schedule:
Tuesday, August 21: 7:00pm -
Thursday, August 23: 7:00pm -
Tuesday, August 28: 7:00pm -
Thursday, August 30: 7:00pm -
Friday, August 31: 7:00pm -

September Activities Schedule:
Tuesday, September 4 until Friday, September 29, 2007 - Training Camp 2007 - North Texas Area

October Activities Schedule:
Monday, October 1 - Wednesday, October 31, 2007 - Preseason / Exhitibition Schedule (TBA)

November Activites Schedule:
November 1, 2007 - Start League Schedule

For more information, please call 817.803-6186 or email: texasasketballeague@yahoo.com

TBL ANNOUCES UPCOMING LEAGUE PRE-DRAFT CAMP -by Benjamin Brinkley
Tryout Camp dates are August 4-5 2007.
3 games per day at: 6:00, 7:30, and 9:00 pm.
*Excludes opening day and playoffs

The Tryout Camp is for those who have the skills for a professional basketball career, but have not received the exposure that their talents deserve.

On the final day of Camp, participants will be given an evaluation (written and verbal) by their coach. Every effort will be made to give each participant his selection status at that time. The 2007 Texas Summer Basketball League at the Metro Charter Academy in Arlington, Texas will begin on Monday August 6, 2007 and conclude with the championship game on Saturday August 11, 2007.
How to Get Into the TBL
1. League Tryout Camp
2. League Direct Entry

Direct Entry participants must meet one of the following qualifications:
1. Been invited to, or attended, one of the following (2007) post-season camps: Texas Invitational, Texas Classic, Texas Pre-Draft.

Summer Pro League Advantages
Besides providing a summer basketball forum for TBL luminaries, the TSBL serves as a showcase for lesser-known young talent. These players use the League as a vehicle to fulfill their dreams of playing professional basketball.

TSBL provides these players with an basketball platform upon which they can exhibit their basketball prowess to the scouts from the TBL and every other major professional league in the world.
• Scouts from the NBA, NBDL, CBA, USBL, ABA, Europe, Latin America, Asia, and Australia will be invited and attend the Texas Summer Basketball League.
• League games are available on videotape through the Video Scouting Service.

Tryout Camp Dates / Costs
DATES OF TRYOUT CAMP
Saturday, August 4 - Sunday, August 5, 2007
Location: Metro Charter Academy 1111 Gibbons Street, Arlington, Texas 76011

Costs
Regular Entry:
$100 before July 15; $150 after

We DO NOT offer refunds after accepting the payment or before the start of the camp, whichever is sooner.

Payments must be made in the form of a Cashier's Check, Money Order, or Cash.
No personal checks accepted!
*Times, Dates, and Location Subject To Change

Please send all payments in the form of Money Order to:
Texas Basketball League
804 Lynnfield Dr.
Arlington, Texas 76014

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
1. What's the difference between the league and the tryout camp?
Players who try out in our camp from August 4-5 will compete for a spot on a team that plays in the actual league from November until March only if you make one of the teams will you play in the league.

2. If I don't make one of the teams do I get a full refund?
No. The $100 fee is to try out in our TBL camp. You do not receive any refund if you don't make it. If you do make one of the teams, there is no additional fee to play in the league.

3. Does the SPL pay for my food, hotel, plane, transportation, etc.?
No. You will need to pay for your own food and plane ticket. Hotel discounts for the Texas Summer Pro League are given at the Holiday Inn Express and the Crown Plaza. Transportation from the airport to Arlington is provided. There will be free shuttles to and from the gymnasium to the airport and hotels. Free transportation will be provided by the TSBL for all games at the Metro Charter Academy in Arlington.

4. How much does the camp cost?
It costs $100-$150 if late, to try out.

5. What do I do after I have paid and submitted my online application?
You will receive a conformation letter in the mail explaining where you need to be and when. You will show up at the Metro on August 4 at 1:30pm. After you pay, you should call either the Holiday Inn Express or the Crown Plaza (numbers are above) and make your hotel reservation.

6. Do I receive a discount if I refer a friend for the tryout camp?
Yes, ask about our new Friend Referral Program!



-by Benjamin Brinkley


TEXAS BASKETBALL LEAGUE ANNOUCES SPORTS MODELS AUDITIONS -by Benjamin Brinkley
Hello my name is Benjamin and I represent Texas Basketball League- http://www.usbasket.com/tbl/tbl.asp We are a new semi-pro basketball league due to hit the court in early November. We will officially be the first and only semi-pro basketball league which you will be able to find in the Metroplex and the state of Texas as well. We look to break the trend of common model clubs and bring you the hottest unknown models from all over the state of Texas. We will showcase sports models both mainstream and underground. What we are currently looking for are unknown FEMALE MODELS ONLY from all over the state of Texas who have not yet made a name for themselves and by definition we mean models who have not yet appeared in any major magazine or publication, appeared in any music video, and who is not currently plastered on a million websites. We want fresh new faces to bring into the industry with a huge bang! We only want the hottest sports models with the most incredible bodies and most interesting personalities!

The following is EXACLTY WHAT WE ARE LOOKING FOR (MEANING IF YOU DON'T FIT THIS PROFILE DO NOT SEND YOUR INFO)

HEIGHT REQUIREMENTS: 4'6 - 5'11
WEIGHT REQUIREMENTS: ANYWHERE FROM 120 LBS. - 160 LBS
BUST REQUIREMENTS: HIGH C - DDD CUP BUST
WAIST REQUIREMENTS: LOW TO MID 20'S ONLY NO HIGHER THAN 28
HIP REQUIREMEMTS: 35+ INCHES
NATIONALITY REQUIREMENTS: ASIAN, HISPANIC, AFRICAN-AMERICAN, MIDDLE EASTERN, NATIVE AMERICAN, AFRICAN, BRAZILIAN,ETC.

NOW IF YOU MEET THE ABOVE REQUIREMENTS YOU MAY EMAIL IN 4-6 IMAGES INCLUDING BODY SHOTS...DON'T HAVE TO BE PROFESSIONAL SHOTS.
YOUR FULL CONTACT INFO INCLUDING YOUR LOCATION(CITY/STATE), & TELEPHONE NUMBER TO:

ladiesofdistinction@gmail.com or texasbasketballeague@yahoo.com All images for the magazine will be shot by Mr. Andrew Buckley.
Any emails not matching what we asked for or missing any of the above information will be deleted immediately.

• Job location is Dallas/Fort Worth/Arlington/Houston/Austin/San Antonio
• Compensation: $300+ exposure

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U.S.VIRGIN ISL.

Jam Squad gets overtime win to advance to ABA title series -by David Edole
By ANDREW KNIES

ST. THOMAS - This wasn't the first time that Jam Squad gave up the first of three games against TWI in the ABA playoffs and this wasn't the first time they had back-to-back wins to eliminate TWI. It was just last year.

Jam Squad in a heroic finished forced the game to go into overtime and was victorious, 93-89. Jam Squad will face Da Real Thing in the finals Saturday night at the BCB gym.

"TWI is a great team and fought hard," Jam Squad's Calvert White said, "but we proved why we are five-time champs and true champions at heart."

Nashaun Jeffers, who was held by Jam Squad to just three first-half points, came out in the third quarter and scored 11 points to cut the lead to 61-58 going into the final quarter. Andrew Christian was quiet most of the game for TWI but made his presence prominent in the fourth quarter. With his team down four points, Christian knocked down a 10-footer and drew a foul to cut the game to one point with 2A‚ minutes left in the game.

After Jam Squad gave up the lead, Keneddy Bass hit a clutch shot from the arc to regain the lead for his team, 72-70, with less than two minutes in the game. But immediately afterward TWI went on a 5-0 run with a three-pointer by Devon Luis. The game seemed to be in TWI's hands, 75-72, with just 22.4 seconds left. Bass, however, came up in the clutch again and cut the lead to 74-75. Kori Vialet proved he came to play and answered Bass' shot with a drive of his own to regain the three-point lead.

Jam Squad got a free throw, but with just 6.4 seconds left in the game and down 75-77, the team was facing defeat and elimination. The ball was put in Bass' hands once again, and he managed to knock down two points and force the game into overtime.

"We know how to play under pressure," Bass said. "We executed with free throws and played a better final minute of the game."

In the overtime, TWI took a quick lead behind Luis' two three-pointers, which were followed up by a three point shot by Joniel Warner. Christian added in a bucket to give TWI the lead 90-84. Akil Lewis, who had scored only six points all game, hit a desperate deep three-pointer for Jam Squad to make the game 90-87. Jam Squad forced a quick turnover and Akil Lewis made it to the line to knock down two of three free throws.

TWI added two more points before White closed the game for Jam Squad by making four of four free throws in the final moments. White finished the game with nine assists for Jam Squad, while Bass led their scoring with 28 points. Steve Gardner scored 15 points, and both Lewis and the big guy in the paint, Randy George, scored 14 points.

Leading TWI was Luis, who scored 21 points, while Jeffers scored 20. Houston Penn, who dominated all season, finished up with a double-double of 13 points and 13 rebounds.

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W.CHAMPS U19

Novi Sad enjoys quarterfinal stage -by Eurobasket News
Brazil U19 - Austrlia U19 73:72
Australia lost just a single game but it was enough to got eliminated from the U19 Wotld Championship in Serbia. Having entered the quarterfinal clash against Brazil with a perfect 6-0 record Australia hoped to stay unbeaten and book their semifinal spot. However it was not the task for South Americans.
Australia started to dominate the game right from the start and secured a 19:14 lead after the opening frame. Pat Mills provided 10 points for Australia to maintain their favourite status. Brazil however repsonded immediatelly and limiting Australia to just 10 points in the second frame spurred ahead 41:29 at halftime.
Andrew Ogilvy (211-C/F-88) was the main offensive threat from the Boomers in the third quarter as he nailed 8 points to cut the deficit to 3 points 52:55. Australia then enjoyed a 6:0 run to start the fourth frame and appeared leading by a single point. Both teams kept it close from now on before brazil grabbed a 1-point advantage with 18 seconds left on the clock. Andrew Ogilvy replied with a jumper to regain the lead but Brazil had the last word. Caue De Freitas sank a jump shot to bring victory to Brazil.
Nardi Jose Nardi Duarte (193-G/F-88) scored 23 points and 5 steals for Brazil. Paulo Prestes (208-C-88) contributed 15 points and 14 rebounds in a winning effort for Brazilian squad. Andrew Ogilvy was a usual contributor for Australia with 22 points and 6 rebounds. Pat Mills provided 19 points, 6 assists and 6 steals in a defeat.
The win saw Brazil advance into the semifianl where they will meet Serbia today. Australia will play in classification round against Turkey today.

Brazil U19: Nardi Jose Nardi Duarte 23 points, Paulo Prestes 15+14 boards
Australia U19: Andrew Ogilvy 22, Patrick Mills (182-G-88) 19.


France U19 - Spain U19 100:83
French U19 National team advanced into the semifinal stunning Spain 100:83. They trailed 23:25 after the opening frame but found the touch midway through the game and rallied past their South neighbours. Antoine Diot (191-G-89) provided 27 points, 7 rebounds and 7 assists for France. Adrien Moerman (203-F/C-88) scored another 24 points and grabbed 9 rebounds for the winners. Spain replied with 28 points from Xavier Forcada (195-G-88).
France will now take on the USA in highly anticipated semifinal clash. Spain will play against Argentina in the classification round.

France U19: Antoine Diot 27 points, Adrien Moerman 24
Spain U19: Xavier Forcada 28, Victor Claver 17.


Serbia U19 - Turkey U19 94:56
The hosting Serbian team faced little problems en route to the semifinal. They cruised past Turkey 94:56 and celebrated another win at the home World Championship. Serbia dominated the game right from the start as they ensured a 18:10 advantage after the opening frame. They extended to 40:27 at halftime and left no chances for Turkish side in the second half. Seven Serbian players scored in double digits. Stefan Stojacic (197-G-89) and Milan Macvan (206-F/C-89) led the way with 13 points apiece. Ogun Sevinc (198-F-88) netted 12 points in a loss.
Serbia will now face Brazil in today's semifinal. Turkey takes on Australia in classification round.

Serbia U19: Stefan Stojacic 13, Milan Macvan 13
Turkey U19: Ogun Sevinc 12, Kerem Ozcan 9


USA U19 - Argentina U19 112:86
United States remained unbeaten at the World championship as they drove past Argentina yesterday. They now imroved to 7-0 record and will now face strong French team in the semis tonight. All the damage in this one was done by the end of the first quarter when the USA squad were up by 18 points. They never stopped in the second and piled up a 62:40 advantage at halftime. Argentina struggled to stop an impressive offense performance from the States and had to surrender at the end. Patrick Beverley (185-G-88) ensured 20 points and 6 rebounds in a win. Raymar Morgan (201-F-88) added 16 points and 7 rebounds for the winners. Argentina were paced by 18 points, 7 steals, 5 rebounds and 5 assists from Nicolas De los Santos (188-G-88).

USA U19: Patrick Beverley 20, Raymar Morgan 16
Argentina U19: Nicolas De los Santos 18, Federico Aguerre (203-F/C-88) 15.

Serbia smashed Turkey 94:56 and advanced to the semis -by Dragan Jankovski
Serbia advanced to the semis smashing Turkey in the quarterfinal 94:56. Turkey was an equal rival just in the first five minutes after what Serbia totally dominated until the very end. Hosts finished game having 44 rebounds while Turkey had only 19. Coach Nikolic gave a chance to all players and all of them exploited it. Stefan Stojacic (197-G-89) and Milan Macvan (206-F/C-89) scored 13 points each while Stefan Markovic (191-G-88) and Aleksandar Radulovic (188-G-88) also added same digits, 12 points.
Today at 18:00h in the semis Serbia will play against Brazil who made surprise beating until that moment undefeated Australia 73:72. In the other semifinal game USA will meet France today at 20:30h. Interesting is that these four team came from the same qualifying group.

Head coach of Serbian U19 NT Miroslav Nikolic for the local newspapers said: “ We have to rest as much as we can and to prepare for Brazil who surprised Australia. Brazil has very good players, we already outplayed them once but it will be difficult for us to do the same again. We will give our best and if we don't take the medal on this WC it will be my personal failure."


Serbia - Turkey 94:56
(18:10,22:17,20:11,34:18)

Serbia: Jeremic 11, Despotovic 11 (7 as), Katnic, Markovic 12, Radulovic 12, Stojacic 13 (7 rebs), Cakarevic 2, Macvan 13 (8 rebs), Raduljica 10 (6 rebs), Marjanovic 8 (9 rebs), Cupkovic 2
DNP: Keselj (injured).
Turkey: Balbay 8 (4 rebs), Ozurganci, Hacioglu 7, Turgut 2, Ozcan 9, Cipa 5, Sevinc 12, Kocabalkan, Aydogan 1, Tunca 6, Ozcan 4 (4 rebs), Selen 2.



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Women News

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ALGERIA - Women

Algeria comes from behind to outscore Tunisia -by Eurobasket News
Algeria - Tunisia 66:56
Algeria enjoyed another victory at All-Africa Games. They routed Tunisia 66:56 in classification round for the 5th-8th spots. Algeria took to a better start as they led 18:13 after the opening frame. Tunisia gradually found the right rhythm and bounced back with a strong second quarter to cut the deficit to 26:29 at halftime.
The things got much better for Tunisia in the third quarter when they managed to establish a 43:42 advantage. But the home side cheered up by the local fans delivered in the final stanza. They smashed Tunisia defence and rushed to a winning result. Wahiba Aissani (170-F-79) scored 23 points to pace hosts. Kenza Gheroumi added another 10 points for the winners. Fatma Barkallah netted 16 points for Tunisia. Maha Chelly (-82) ensured another 13 points in losing clause.
Algeria had an edge under the rims as they outrebounded Tunisia 37:34. They also shot 43% from the field, but were inconsistant from free throw line converting just 52%.
Algeria will now fight for the 5th spot tomorrow.

Algeria: Wahiba Aissani 23 points, Kenza Gheroumi 10
Tunisia: Fatma Barkallah 16, Maha Chelly 13.

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ALL-AFRICA G. - Women

Senegal will take on Nigeria in All-Africa Games basketball final -by Eurobasket News
Nigeria - Mozambique 57:46
Nigeria defeated Mozambique in the second semifinal of All-African Games in Algeria. Nigeria lost no games earlier in the tournament and actually entered this semifinal as favorites. They however lost the opening frame 12:13 and had to play a catch up for some time in the second quarter. But by the end of the second frame Nigeria were ahead 27:23 and never looked back from now on. They outscored Mozambique 18:10 in the third quarter and easily secured a win at the end.
Nigeria will now take on Senegal in the tournament decider tomorrow. Mozambique will play versus Angola for the Bronze medals.

Nigeria: Abolanle Sanni 13 points, Ugochukwu Oha (193-C-82, college: George Washington) 11+10 boards
Mozambique: Deolinda Gimo (189-C-87) 11, Aleia Rachide (184-F-85) 11


Senegal - Angola 71:49
Senegal posted a spectacular performance in the semifinal against Angola to book thier title game ticket. Angola who entered the semis with a perfect record hoped to for a positive outcome. However Senegal did not give them a trace of chance en route to the victory.
Teams started the game bravely and exchanged the shots throughout the first quarter. Senegal appeared to be more accurate and secured a narrow lead 18:16. In the second quarter the game turned into a defensive battle with no team rushing ahead. Senegalese players adjusted better to the tempo and limited Angola to only 6 points in the second frame. They were up 30:22 at halftime and never stopped after the break. The gap kept on growing and Senegal extended it to 43:31 after three quarters. Angola's defence collapsed in the final stanza allowing Senegal to drop 28 points and celebrate a confident victory.
Diodio Diouf (170-G-84) produced 17 points for Senegal. Khady Diakhate contributed 15 points for the winners. Irene Guerreiro (-70) nailed 12 points to lead Angola. Sonia Cardoso provided 10 and 5 boards in a defeat.
Senegal will now take on Nigeria in tomorrow's final.

Senegal: Diodio Diouf 17 points, Khady Diakhate 15
Angola: Irene Guerreiro 12, Sonia Cardoso 10.

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ANGOLA - Women

Senegal cruises past Angola into the Final -by Eurobasket News
Senegal - Angola 71:49
Senegal posted a spectacular performance in the semifinal against Angola to book thier title game ticket. Angola who entered the semis with a perfect record hoped to for a positive outcome. However Senegal did not give them a trace of chance en route to the victory.
Teams started the game bravely and exchanged the shots throughout the first quarter. Senegal appeared to be more accurate and secured a narrow lead 18:16. In the second quarter the game turned into a defensive battle with no team rushing ahead. Senegalese players adjusted better to the tempo and limited Angola to only 6 points in the second frame. They were up 30:22 at halftime and never stopped after the break. The gap kept on growing and Senegal extended it to 43:31 after three quarters. Angola's defence collapsed in the final stanza allowing Senegal to drop 28 points and celebrate a confident victory.
Diodio Diouf (170-G-84) produced 17 points for Senegal. Khady Diakhate contributed 15 points for the winners. Irene Guerreiro (-70) nailed 12 points to lead Angola. Sonia Cardoso provided 10 and 5 boards in a defeat.
Senegal will now take on Nigeria in tomorrow's final.

Senegal: Diodio Diouf 17 points, Khady Diakhate 15
Angola: Irene Guerreiro 12, Sonia Cardoso 10.

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AUSTRALIA - Women

U19: Australia fall to Spain by one point in friendly game -by Gauthier Gerard
The Australian under-19 women's basketball team were defeated by Spain at a pre-World Championship tournament in the Canary Islands overnight, 60-59, just 24 hours after falling by two points to the United States. Nicole Hunt (167-G-88) led the Gems with 16 points and 5 rebounds. The Gems made one change to their starting line up from the previous night, with Bec Schatz in for Mia Newley to match up on their key offensive player Torrens. The Gems will play Brazil tomorrow.
article by Bill Baxter and Ben Hawes for BA media

The game started at a furious tempo up and down the floor, with the Spanish team aggressive from the start. They exposed the Gems containment defence which resulted in early foul problems for the young Aussies. It took the Gems most of the quarter to adjust and after being down by six points they closed the quarter well to trail by two at the break, 16-14. The second quarter was much the same for both teams, basket for basket with poor passing a feature. At half time the Gems trailed Spain, 29-28.
In the second half the Gems made defensive adjustments, but those early fouls restricted Coach Dean Kinsman's ability to rotate players. Passing errors continued to disrupt the Gems' offensive flow, but defensively they ‘hung tough' and their rebounding was excellent. The last quarter mirrored the previous three quarters, with never more than a basket or two separating the teams. With Abby Bishop, Cayla Francis and Ellie Manou all fouled out of the game, Marianna Tolo stepped up to record 10 points and 9 rebounds.
With the game in the balance the Gems delivered the ball inside to Marianna Tolo who converted with 7 seconds on the game clock to put the Aussies up by 1 point. Spain called a time out, took the ball to the half way line and inbounded to their point guard who penetrated hard to the basket. Australia was called for a foul with a decision that could have gone either way. The resulting two free throws put Spain on top 60-59 as time expired. This was a torrid game with the Aussies committing 34 fouls as well as a high turnover rate of 26.
“It was encouraging that our rebounding was strong and that our two losses have been to quality teams by two points and one point,” Gems Coach Dean Kinsman said.


photo: Basketball AUstralia

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BELGIUM - Women

Belgium outscores Germany to play for the 5th spot -by Eurobasket News
Belgium U20 - Germany U20 76:72
Belgium U20 National team narrowly defeated Germany to fight for the 5th spot at the European championship in Bulgaria. Germany will tomorrow their last game against Russia for the 7th-8th place.
Germany had a perfect start to the game as they scored first 7 points. They led 11:2 midway through the starting quarter as Belgium struggled to adjust. However Sara Leemans nailed 7 straight points to narrow the gap for Belgium 19:20. Belgium grabbed a lead early in the second frame on Marjorie Carpreaux (165-G-87) jump shot. They maintained throughout the second quarter and finished the first half 34:30 in front.
The game remained very close in the third quarter and only Marjorie Carpreaux field goal at the end of the stanza lifted Belgium to a minimum 52:50 advantage. Carpreaux dropped another jumper midway through the fourth frame to spark Belgium's 10:2 run that established a 67:60 lead. Margret Skuballa (185-F-87) poured in a jump shot to cut it back to 69:74 but Lieselot Malfait's free throws marked a victory for Belgium.
Marjorie Carpreaux paced Belgian team with 25 points and 7 assists. Fannie Vandesteene (176-F-87) scored another 16 points for the winners. Margret Skuballa produced 25 points and 9 rebounds for Germany. Romy Bar (187-F-87) had 16 points and 7 boards in a losing case.
Belgium takes on Italy in the game for the 5th spot tomorrow.

Belgium U20: Marjorie Carpreaux 25 points, Fannie Vandesteene 16
Germany U20: Margret Skuballa 25, Romy Bar 16.

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BRAZIL - Women

Brazil opens home tournament with win -by Eurobasket News
Brazil - Jamaica 81:69
Brazil opened the home PanAmerican basketball competition with a win over Jamaica. Leading by just a single point after the first frame 18:17 Brazil came strong in the second. Brazil dominated the pace of the game and spurred to a 24:15 dominance in the second. Brazil extended the gap in the third frame and entered the final stanza ahead 63:46. Jamaica tried to close the deficit in the final minutes but had little chances to reach out so far. Janeth led the action with 28 points for Brazil. Ega added 13 points in a win. Jamaica replied with 18 points from Vanessa Gidden (191-C-85, college: Hofstra). Edwards had 15 points in defeat.
Brazil will next face Mexico in Group A action. Jamaica takes on Canada tonight.

Brazil: Janeth Arcain (181-G-69, college: Florida Intern.) 28 points, Micaela Jacintho (180-F-79) 11
Jamaica: Vanessa Gidden 18, Simone Edwards (193-C-73, college: Iowa) 15

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CANADA - Women

Canada survives overtime against Mexico -by Eurobasket News
Canada - Mexico 74:63 (OT)
Canada national team needed an overtime to celebrate their first win at PanAmerican Games in Brazil. They trailed 24:29 at halftime against Mexico, but grabbed a 44:41 advantage entering the final frame. Both teams exchanged blows throughout the fourth quarter and Canada had to perform some heroics to force extra time at the end of regulation. However Canadian players proved strong in overtime limiting Mexico to just 2 points and sealing a victory at the end. Teresa Gabriele led the action with 22 points. Sarah Crooks (186-F-84) added 14 for Canada. Mexico were paced by 20 points from Brisa Silva (168-G-84).

Canada: Teresa Gabriele 22, Sarah Crooks 14
Mexico: Brisa Silva 20.

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COLOMBIA - Women

Colombia loses to United States in opener -by Eurobasket News
USA - Colombia 95:41
The USA and Colombia opened the 15th Pan American Games in Rio De Janiero yesterday. USA entered the game as favourites and proved their status overwhelming Colombian team. They grabbed an early 17:4 lead and extended it to 32:14 after the first quarter. The dominance of the USA team turned out into a massive 63:23 advantage at halftime. North American players faced little obstacles on the way to their first win at the tournament in the second half enjoying a 55-point lead at the moments.
USA outrebounded Colombia 50:27 and limited them to just 24.1% from the field. Meawhile USA players converted soild 52.7% of field goals including 52.4% from beyond the arc. Colombia also struggled from free throw line hitting just 41.4% and committed 18 turnovers.
Mattee Ajavon (173-G) led the United States with 15 points. Natasha Humphrey produced 14 points and 7 rebounds in a win. Yaneth Arias (188-F-82) topscored for Colombia with 17 points. Elena Diaz (186-F-83) netted 11 points in defeat.
USA topped Group B standings and will next take on Argentina. Colombia will try to improve the record against Cuba.

USA: Mattee Ajavon 15, Natasha Humphrey 14
Colombia: Yaneth Arias 17, Elena Diaz 11

Pan American Games: Colombia 41 - USA 95 -by Victor Garcia
Colombia did not began well the Women Basketball in the PanAmerican games, the National team had to face the Powerhouse USA; despite USA sent a young team Colombia were unable to stop the offensive power of the Americans, in the begining of the game the team USA took a 20 points lead and since then easily handled the game with great accuracy from the 3 points line, and speed in the fastbreak.
Colombian coach Guillermo Moreno try to force the Colombian offensive with Yaneth Arias, and Yaneth show his category but were to alone and the American defense focused on her to stop the national hopes.
The national team sent to the court the following starting five:

Yenny Pinilla G-
Yaneth Arias-F
Elena Diaz-F
Heissy Robledo - F
Levys Torres - C.

But the great ball movement and speed of the American Team forced coach Moreno to change the defense and include the young hope Tatiana Mosquera in the place of Robledo, at the end of the first quarter USA had a 18 points lead that turned into a 40 points gap at the half, USA dominates all the faces of the game outrebounded Colombia and limited the the team to a 25% FG, while USA shot over 50% in the game.
Colombia missed his starting guard Erika Valek who did not come for an injury.
Yaneth Arias leaded all the scorers with 17 points, Elena Diaz followed her in Colombia with 11, for the USA Rutgers' guard Mattee Ajavon scored 15 points and Natasha Humphrey 14.

Now the great Challenge is to help the team to let back this bad game, and do its best effort against Cuba today.

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COSTA RICA - Women

"Ticas" Having Partial Success in COCOBA -by Max Blair
The Costa Rican women's national team lost a tight game 70-66 to El Salvador in El Salvador on the 19th. They bounced back on the 20th with a 65-35 drumming of Nicaragua.

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FRANCE - Women

NT: U20 - Serbia knock out France -by Leslie Anderson

Last year Serbia & Montenegro played in division B and finished with the silver medal. This year Serbia and Montenegro are playing as separate nations with Serbia after their victory against France in the division A final and Montenegro have qualified for the division B final after beating Great Britain.


Miljana Musovic was in a hurry to put Serbia in front and she scored the first five point of the match. France quickly came back with Endene Miyem and Pauline Jannault (11-7). Pauline Jannault picked up a second personal foul and had to leave the game. The rest of the quarter was evenly contested with Serbia leading (20- 22) after the first period.

The break did neither any good, as they appeared to lose their rhythm with only a couple of point scored by Serbia in the first 3 minutes. The return of Pauline Jannault changed things as France went on a run of seven (27-24) and maintained their lead (31-30) until the 17th minute. Serbia then took control of the game and went into the interval (34-41) leading comfortable. The rest of the match proved difficult for France, as they never managed to close the gap and ending up losing (64-76).


France will play Turkey for 3rd place tomorrow.


Full match statistics are available here



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GERMANY - Women

Belgium outscores Germany to play for the 5th spot -by Eurobasket News
Belgium U20 - Germany U20 76:72
Belgium U20 National team narrowly defeated Germany to fight for the 5th spot at the European championship in Bulgaria. Germany will tomorrow their last game against Russia for the 7th-8th place.
Germany had a perfect start to the game as they scored first 7 points. They led 11:2 midway through the starting quarter as Belgium struggled to adjust. However Sara Leemans nailed 7 straight points to narrow the gap for Belgium 19:20. Belgium grabbed a lead early in the second frame on Marjorie Carpreaux (165-G-87) jump shot. They maintained throughout the second quarter and finished the first half 34:30 in front.
The game remained very close in the third quarter and only Marjorie Carpreaux field goal at the end of the stanza lifted Belgium to a minimum 52:50 advantage. Carpreaux dropped another jumper midway through the fourth frame to spark Belgium's 10:2 run that established a 67:60 lead. Margret Skuballa (185-F-87) poured in a jump shot to cut it back to 69:74 but Lieselot Malfait's free throws marked a victory for Belgium.
Marjorie Carpreaux paced Belgian team with 25 points and 7 assists. Fannie Vandesteene (176-F-87) scored another 16 points for the winners. Margret Skuballa produced 25 points and 9 rebounds for Germany. Romy Bar (187-F-87) had 16 points and 7 boards in a losing case.
Belgium takes on Italy in the game for the 5th spot tomorrow.

Belgium U20: Marjorie Carpreaux 25 points, Fannie Vandesteene 16
Germany U20: Margret Skuballa 25, Romy Bar 16.

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JAMAICA - Women

Brazil opens home tournament with win -by Eurobasket News
Brazil - Jamaica 81:69
Brazil opened the home PanAmerican basketball competition with a win over Jamaica. Leading by just a single point after the first frame 18:17 Brazil came strong in the second. Brazil dominated the pace of the game and spurred to a 24:15 dominance in the second. Brazil extended the gap in the third frame and entered the final stanza ahead 63:46. Jamaica tried to close the deficit in the final minutes but had little chances to reach out so far. Janeth led the action with 28 points for Brazil. Ega added 13 points in a win. Jamaica replied with 18 points from Vanessa Gidden (191-C-85, college: Hofstra). Edwards had 15 points in defeat.
Brazil will next face Mexico in Group A action. Jamaica takes on Canada tonight.

Brazil: Janeth Arcain (181-G-69, college: Florida Intern.) 28 points, Micaela Jacintho (180-F-79) 11
Jamaica: Vanessa Gidden 18, Simone Edwards (193-C-73, college: Iowa) 15

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LITHUANIA - Women

Lithuania needs a strong fourth frame to advance to the semis -by Eurobasket News
Lithuania U20 - Romania U20 79:70
Lithuanian U20 National team advanced into the semifinal of home European championship. They narrowly defeated Romania in yesterday's quarterfinal to go Top 4. Lithuania used a 9:0 run at the end of the first frame to grab a 24:16 advantage. They maintained the lead in the second quarter and remained ahead 42:38 at halftime. However an impressive Romania's run 13:1 capped the third stanza and put them in front 57:55. Gabriela Marginean (185-F-87) scored 8 points during this run and secured the lead for Romania. The teams were drawn at 69 with under 3 minutes to go in the game when Lithuania spurred ahead. Saule Kontautaite (176-G-89) nailed 5 points and Laima Rickeviciute added another 3 to ensure Lithuania's victory at the end.
Saule Kontautaite topscored for Lithuania with 25 points and 8 assists. Sarune Jasiunskaite (188-F-88) had 11 points and 17 rebounds for the winners. Romania answered with game-high 36 points from Gabriela Marginean. Claudia Pop (185-F-89) produced 11 points, 7 rebounds and 5 assists in a loss.
Lithuania will now face Potug in today's semifinal. Romania will play against Sweden for the 5th-8th spots.

Lithuania U20: Saule Kontautaite 25 points, Greta Luksyte (178-G-87) 18, Sarune Jasiunskaite 11+17 boards
Romania U20: Gabriela Marginean 36, Claudia Pop 11.

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MEXICO - Women

Canada survives overtime against Mexico -by Eurobasket News
Canada - Mexico 74:63 (OT)
Canada national team needed an overtime to celebrate their first win at PanAmerican Games in Brazil. They trailed 24:29 at halftime against Mexico, but grabbed a 44:41 advantage entering the final frame. Both teams exchanged blows throughout the fourth quarter and Canada had to perform some heroics to force extra time at the end of regulation. However Canadian players proved strong in overtime limiting Mexico to just 2 points and sealing a victory at the end. Teresa Gabriele led the action with 22 points. Sarah Crooks (186-F-84) added 14 for Canada. Mexico were paced by 20 points from Brisa Silva (168-G-84).

Canada: Teresa Gabriele 22, Sarah Crooks 14
Mexico: Brisa Silva 20.

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MONTENEGRO - Women

Montenegro survives late threat from Great Britain to advance to the Final -by Eurobasket News
Montenegro U20 - Great Britain U20 69:61
Montenegrin U20 team became the first finalist of the European championship in Division B. They overcame Great Britain in today's semifinal to clinch the Final spot.
Both teams entered the semifinal stage with just a single defeat and no one wanted to get the second. Montenegro were a bit quicker at the start of the game and posted an early 8:2 lead. Great Britain gradually found the touch from the field but Montenegro secured a 16:11 advantage after the first frame. Maja Milutinovic and Aleksandra Ratkovic produced a couple of strong offensive plays to ensure a 32:19 lead for Montenegro midway through the second frame. Johannah Leedham (178-G-87) however cut it to 27:36 at halftime. Another Montenegrin duet of Snezana Aleksic (170-G-89) and Jelena Dubljevic (192-C-87) emerged strong at the end of the third quarter to ignite another run for their team and seal a 54:41 distance entering the final quarter. Verity Peets scored a jumper with less than 1.30 to go in regulation to revive a hope for Great Britain as they drove within 5 points from Montenegro. But it vanished with perfect free throws from Snezana Aleksic.
Jelena Dubljevic led Montenegro with 17 points and 13 boards. Snezana Aleksic provided 16 points, 6 rebounds and 6 assists for the winners. Helen Naylor (180-F-87) answered with 18 points for Great Britain. Johannah Leedham dropped 15 points in a loss.
Montengro outrebounded the opponents 44:30 and converted 50% of their 2-point attempts.

Montenegro U20: Jelena Dubljevic 17 points, Snezana Aleksic 16
Great Britain U20: Helen Naylor 18, Johannah Leedham 15.

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MOZAMBIQUE - Women

Nigeria joins Senegal in the Final -by Eurobasket News
Nigeria - Mozambique 57:46
Nigeria defeated Mozambique in the second semifinal of All-African Games in Algeria. Nigeria lost no games earlier in the tournament and actually entered this semifinal as favorites. They however lost the opening frame 12:13 and had to play a catch up for some time in the second quarter. But by the end of the second frame Nigeria were ahead 27:23 and never looked back from now on. They outscored Mozambique 18:10 in the third quarter and easily secured a win at the end. Abolanle Olayimka led Nigeria with 13 points and 8 rebounds. Ugochukwu Oha (193-C-82, college: George Washington) had 11 points and 10 boards, while Joyle Ekworomadu nailed 11 points for the winners. Mozambique replied with 11 points from Aleia Rachide (184-F-85). Adriano Cossa added 10 points in a defeat.
Nigeria will now take on Senegal in the tournament decider tomorrow. Mozambique will play versus Angola for the Bronze medals.

Nigeria: Abolanle Olayimka 13 points, Ugochukwu Oha 11+10 boards
Mozambique: Aleia Rachide 11, Adriano Cossa 10.

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NIGERIA - Women

Nigeria joins Senegal in the Final -by Eurobasket News
Nigeria - Mozambique 57:46
Nigeria defeated Mozambique in the second semifinal of All-African Games in Algeria. Nigeria lost no games earlier in the tournament and actually entered this semifinal as favorites. They however lost the opening frame 12:13 and had to play a catch up for some time in the second quarter. But by the end of the second frame Nigeria were ahead 27:23 and never looked back from now on. They outscored Mozambique 18:10 in the third quarter and easily secured a win at the end. Abolanle Olayimka led Nigeria with 13 points and 8 rebounds. Ugochukwu Oha (193-C-82, college: George Washington) had 11 points and 10 boards, while Joyle Ekworomadu nailed 11 points for the winners. Mozambique replied with 11 points from Aleia Rachide (184-F-85). Adriano Cossa added 10 points in a defeat.
Nigeria will now take on Senegal in the tournament decider tomorrow. Mozambique will play versus Angola for the Bronze medals.

Nigeria: Abolanle Olayimka 13 points, Ugochukwu Oha 11+10 boards
Mozambique: Aleia Rachide 11, Adriano Cossa 10.

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PANAMERIC. GAMES - Women

Brazil and Cuba victorious on the first day of the tournament -by Eurobasket News
Brazil - Jamaica 81:69
Brazil opened the home PanAmerican basketball competition with a win over Jamaica. Leading by just a single point after the first frame 18:17 Brazil came strong in the second. Brazil dominated the pace of the game and spurred to a 24:15 dominance in the second. Brazil extended the gap in the third frame and entered the final stanza ahead 63:46. Jamaica tried to close the deficit in the final minutes but had little chances to reach out so far. Janeth led the action with 28 points for Brazil. Ega added 13 points in a win. Jamaica replied with 18 points from Vanessa Gidden (191-C-85, college: Hofstra). Edwards had 15 points in defeat.
Brazil will next face Mexico in Group A action. Jamaica takes on Canada tonight.

Brazil: Janeth Arcain (181-G-69, college: Florida Intern.) 28 points, Ega 13
Jamaica: Vanessa Gidden 18, Simone Edwards (193-C-73, college: Iowa) 15


Argentina - Cuba 79:81

The action begins in Rio De Janiero -by Eurobasket News
USA - Colombia 95:41
The USA and Colombia opened the 15th Pan American Games in Rio De Janiero yesterday. USA entered the game as favourites and proved their status overwhelming Colombian team. They grabbed an early 17:4 lead and extended it to 32:14 after the first quarter. The dominance of the USA team turned out into a massive 63:23 advantage at halftime. North American players faced little obstacles on the way to their first win at the tournament in the second half enjoying a 55-point lead at the moments.
USA outrebounded Colombia 50:27 and limited them to just 24.1% from the field. Meawhile USA players converted soild 52.7% of field goals including 52.4% from beyond the arc.
Mattee Ajavon (173-G) led the United States with 15 points. Natasha Humphrey produced 14 points and 7 rebounds in a win. Yaneth Arias (188-F-82) topscored for Colombia with 17 points.
USA topped Group B standings and will next take on Argentina. Colombia will try to improve the record against Cuba.

USA: Mattee Ajavon 15, Natasha Humphrey 14
Colombia: Yaneth Arias 17, Elena Diaz (186-F-83) 11


Canada - Mexico 74:63 (OT)
Canada national team needed an overtime to celebrate their first win at PanAmerican Games in Brazil. They trailed 24:29 at halftime against Mexico, but grabbed a 44:41 advantage entering the final frame. Both teams exchanged blows throughout the fourth quarter and Canada had to perform some heroics to force extra time at the end of regulation. However Canadian players proved strong in overtime limiting Mexico to just 2 points and sealing a victory at the end. Teresa Gabriele led the action with 22 points. Sarah Crooks (186-F-84) added 14 for Canada. Mexico were paced by 20 points from Brisa Silva (168-G-84).

Canada: Teresa Gabriele 22, Sarah Crooks 14
Mexico: Brisa Silva 20.

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ROMANIA - Women

FIBA EuroCup Women -by Bogdan Bocaniala
BC ICIM Arad will be in those 53 teams that will play FIBA EuroCup Women this season.
In order to be ready for EuroCup games BC ICIM Arad will go in some turnaments and they will start with tournament from Gent (Belgium) that will be from 15-19 august and on theyr way back to Romania they will play tow games with Luxemburg Senior National Team on 20 and 21 august.
With just few days before start of Romanian Championship on 5-7 october BC ICIM Arad will play in Leipzig Cup in Germany. One week later will be in Arad ICIM Cup.

Dragus is back !!! -by Bogdan Bocaniala
After long period of time when she was kept out of the court because of an injury on the shoulder, Bianca Dragus (184-F/C-76) is working hard in the gym to be able to come back and help BC ICIM Arad in the season to come.

U 20 Ronania lost. -by Bogdan Bocaniala
U 20 Ronanian National team lost against U20 Sweden National team. Romania and Sweden together played in the group B where Sweden also win.
19-16 for Sweden was after first quarter but Romania come back and with more concentration won second quarter 16-21 and it was 35-37 fro Romania at the break.
Nobody aspect what was going to happen, for 9min and 40 sec. Romania didn't score.
Coach Simona Musat asked timeout in min.25 when was 43-37 fro Sweden but that didn't change to much.
When where just 18 sec to play Alexandra Uiuiu (183-F-89) scored for Romania and made the final score of third quarter 19-2 for Sweden.
Losing the fourth quarter with 19-11 Romania lost also the game.
Gabriela Marginean (185-F-87) made one of her big games today with a double-double 16 points and 11 rebounds.
Romania will have to fight tomorrow for 7 place whit Netherlands which lost against Poland.
72 - 50 Sweden, and Sweden will get ready to play against Poland for 5 place.

U 20 Sweden: Elisabeth Egnell (185-F-87) 18 points, Frida Grahn (184-F-88) 16, Malin Birgitta 13.
U 20 Romania: Gabriela Marginean 16 points, Alexandra Uiuiu 10, Elisabeth Pavel (192-C-90) 10

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RUSSIA - Women

Russia loses to Italy, will play for the 7th -by Eurobasket News
Russia U20 - Italy U20 69:83
Russian U20 team will have to play for the 7th spot in the European championship in Bulgaria. In the classification round they were beaten by Italy 69:83 and will now face Germany in the game for the 7th-8th spot. Italy dominated the game early on and secured a 24:17 gap after the first frame. Tatiana Yumashina's 6 points at the start of the second quarter helped Russian team to cut the deficit and take a lead midway through the stanza. However Silvia Sarni capped the first half with a trey to level the teams at 40.
The teams kept it close in the third quarter before Italy put on 11:3 run to clear off to a 63:55 distance entering the final quarter. Anna Mikheeva hit two free throws to narrow the lead to 5 points with under 7 minutes to go in the game but it was as close as Russia could have got this day. Chiara Consolini chipped in 6 points and Giorgia Sottana (177-G-88) added another 4 to seal the win for Italy.
Benedetta Bagnara (178-G-87, agency: LBM Management) led Italian team with 23 points. Giorgia Sottana contributed 14 points fot the winners. Elena Gogiya (190-F-87, agency: LBM Management) topscored for Russia with 19 points and 6 boards. Anna Sokolova (185-F-87) added 11 points in defeat.
Russia takes on Germany tomorrow in the battle for the 7th-8th spots. Italy faces Belgium in the game for the 5th-6th places.

Russia U20: Elena Gogiya 19 points, Anna Sokolova 11
Italy U20: Benedetta Bagnara 23, Giorgia Sottana 14.

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SENEGAL - Women

Senegal cruises past Angola into the Final -by Eurobasket News
Senegal - Angola 71:49
Senegal posted a spectacular performance in the semifinal against Angola to book thier title game ticket. Angola who entered the semis with a perfect record hoped to for a positive outcome. However Senegal did not give them a trace of chance en route to the victory.
Teams started the game bravely and exchanged the shots throughout the first quarter. Senegal appeared to be more accurate and secured a narrow lead 18:16. In the second quarter the game turned into a defensive battle with no team rushing ahead. Senegalese players adjusted better to the tempo and limited Angola to only 6 points in the second frame. They were up 30:22 at halftime and never stopped after the break. The gap kept on growing and Senegal extended it to 43:31 after three quarters. Angola's defence collapsed in the final stanza allowing Senegal to drop 28 points and celebrate a confident victory.
Diodio Diouf (170-G-84) produced 17 points for Senegal. Khady Diakhate contributed 15 points for the winners. Irene Guerreiro (-70) nailed 12 points to lead Angola. Sonia Cardoso provided 10 and 5 boards in a defeat.
Senegal will now take on Nigeria in tomorrow's final.

Senegal: Diodio Diouf 17 points, Khady Diakhate 15
Angola: Irene Guerreiro 12, Sonia Cardoso 10.

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SERBIA - Women

Serbia claims the Final birth -by Eurobasket News
Serbia U20 - France U20 76:64
Serbian U20 National team became the first finalist of the European championship in Bulgaria. They defeated France in the semifinal to advance to their historic first final.
Serbia started the game bravely and led 5:0 one minute into it. France however quickly replied with 11:2 run of their own and gained an 11:7 advantage. Teams kept it close in the first quarter and Jelena Radic's jumper marked a narrow 22:20 Serbian lead. Both France and Serbia could not convert for more about four minutes into the second quarter before Maja Scekic opened the scoring line. It was once again a battle of characters and no one wanted to lose as the teams remained at a striking distance. Tamara Radocaj (168-G-87) drained a three pointer to cap the first half and put Serbia in front 41:34.
Serbia opened the second half with an 8:2 run and cleared off to a 49:36 distance. They continued to roll and piled up a 63:47 lead by the end of the frame. France seemed to lose the touch as they struggled to find their way back into this one. Maja Scekic hit one free throw with 59 seconds left in the regulation to mark a 76:60 lead. That was the win for Serbia as they now became the first finalist of the European championship.
Miljana Musovic (180-G-87) topscored for Serbia with 20 points. Tamara Radocaj contributed 17 points, 6 assists and 4 rebounds for the winners. Endene Miyem (188-F-88) answered with 19 points and 7 rebounds for France. Laetitia Kamba (186-C-87) delivered 14 points and 9 boards in a defeat.

Serbia U20: Miljana Musovic 20 points, Tamara Radocaj 17
France U20: Endene Miyem 19, Laetitia Kamba 14.

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SPAIN - Women

Ingrid Pons to Ibiza and Lecoe Willingham to Olesa Espanyol -by Ivan Villar
PDV-Puig d'en Valls continues building a good roster for next season after joining to Ingrid Pons (186-C-75).The powerforward of UB Barcelona will play in Ibiza for fight to take the team of Jordi Fernandez the highest possible.Olesa decided to choose Lecoe Willingham as the couple of Tina Lelas near the rims.The american player plays as powerforward who was in WNBA team of Connecticut Sun.U20 national team knows his new step to final,Turkey will be the next team to beat for get the ticket to final.It sounds good to players of Susana Garcia because they won turkish team in summer tournament in Bembibre by 30 points.

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TUNISIA - Women

Algeria comes from behind to outscore Tunisia -by Eurobasket News
Algeria - Tunisia 66:56
Algeria enjoyed another victory at All-Africa Games. They routed Tunisia 66:56 in classification round for the 5th-8th spots. Algeria took to a better start as they led 18:13 after the opening frame. Tunisia gradually found the right rhythm and bounced back with a strong second quarter to cut the deficit to 26:29 at halftime.
The things got much better for Tunisia in the third quarter when they managed to establish a 43:42 advantage. But the home side cheered up by the local fans delivered in the final stanza. They smashed Tunisia defence and rushed to a winning result. Wahiba Aissani (170-F-79) scored 23 points to pace hosts. Kenza Gheroumi added another 10 points for the winners. Fatma Barkallah netted 16 points for Tunisia. Maha Chelly (-82) ensured another 13 points in losing clause.
Algeria had an edge under the rims as they outrebounded Tunisia 37:34. They also shot 43% from the field, but were inconsistant from free throw line converting just 52%.
Algeria will now fight for the 5th spot tomorrow.

Algeria: Wahiba Aissani 23 points, Kenza Gheroumi 10
Tunisia: Fatma Barkallah 16, Maha Chelly 13.

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U.KINGDOM - Women

Montenegro survives late threat from Great Britain to advance to the Final -by Eurobasket News
Montenegro U20 - Great Britain U20 69:61
Montenegrin U20 team became the first finalist of the European championship in Division B. They overcame Great Britain in today's semifinal to clinch the Final spot.
Both teams entered the semifinal stage with just a single defeat and no one wanted to get the second. Montenegro were a bit quicker at the start of the game and posted an early 8:2 lead. Great Britain gradually found the touch from the field but Montenegro secured a 16:11 advantage after the first frame. Maja Milutinovic and Aleksandra Ratkovic produced a couple of strong offensive plays to ensure a 32:19 lead for Montenegro midway through the second frame. Johannah Leedham (178-G-87) however cut it to 27:36 at halftime. Another Montenegrin duet of Snezana Aleksic (170-G-89) and Jelena Dubljevic (192-C-87) emerged strong at the end of the third quarter to ignite another run for their team and seal a 54:41 distance entering the final quarter. Verity Peets scored a jumper with less than 1.30 to go in regulation to revive a hope for Great Britain as they drove within 5 points from Montenegro. But it vanished with perfect free throws from Snezana Aleksic.
Jelena Dubljevic led Montenegro with 17 points and 13 boards. Snezana Aleksic provided 16 points, 6 rebounds and 6 assists for the winners. Helen Naylor (180-F-87) answered with 18 points for Great Britain. Johannah Leedham dropped 15 points in a loss.
Montengro outrebounded the opponents 44:30 and converted 50% of their 2-point attempts.

Montenegro U20: Jelena Dubljevic 17 points, Snezana Aleksic 16
Great Britain U20: Helen Naylor 18, Johannah Leedham 15.