EUROBASKET NEWS REPORT - 1/15/2008

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


Men News

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

Last roster changes -by Gianni Pascucci
The Halifax Rainmen waived Devino Williams (6'3''-G-87, college: Palm Beach CC) and will welcome back forward James Booyer (6'8''-F, college: IUPU-Indianapolis), who is now fully recovered from his injuries. In the aftermath of incidents that took place during Saturday's game in Burlington between the Vermont Frost Heaves and the Manchester Millrats, the American Basketball Association has suspended the Millrats' Ifesinachi Anosike (6'11''-C, college: Salem St.) for 10 games and Ismael Caro (6'0''-G-82, agency: Paris Global Sports, college: New Haven) for three games, and ordered the Frost Heaves' Dwayne Lee (6'0''-G-84, agency: Strategic Sports, college: St.Joseph's) to sit out one game. In consequence of this, the Manchester Millrats organization have suspended Ifesinachi Anosike indefinitely, and released Ismael Caro.

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

FMP parted ways with head coach Vukoicic and promotes Klipa ! -by Dragan Jankovski

After defeat against Zagreb at home in the previous round of Adriatic league, FMP decided to part ways with head coach Vlada Vukoicic. During the last two and a half years Vukoicic had fantastic results as the team once again became the champion of Adriatic league 05/06 and won National Cup Radivoj Korac 07. Last summer Vukoicic won the gold medal on U20 European Championship in Nova Gorica. Ha got prestigious award 'Adriatic league coach of the year 2006' by Eurobasket.com.

Panthers immediately promoted Slobodan Klipa as a new head coach. Until today Klipa used to work in FMP II.



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

TNA - ZONE NORTH AND SOUTH -by Bruno Fontana
ZONE SOUTH
Regatas SN 85 - GELP 80 ( S. Ford 21 - N. Ojeda 28)

Lanus 72 - Argentino J. 71 (J. Heywood 20 - F. Marin 17)

San Martin MJ 96 - Echague 86 (Joe Williams 25 - K. Carruthers 24) more information www.soydelnegro.com.ar

Ciclista Juninense 84 - Echague Saladillo 69 (D. Belvedere 18 - P. Thorton 14)


ZONE NORTH
Olimpia Catamarca 79 - San Martin C 90

La Union F. 75 - Ciclista Olimpico 69 (N. Green 17 - G. Boero 18)

Union S. 88 - Alma Jrs. 75 ( F. Giorgis 17- E. Price 18)

14/01 - Asoc. Espanonal vs. Asoc. Italiana (TyC Max TV

Liga A round 12 -by Facundo Iatzky
Best 5:
Pablo Sebastian Rodriguez (188-G-78) of penarol
Julio Mazzaro (186-G-79) of quimsa
Mariano Ceruti (194-F-79) of libertad
Christopher Jeffries (199-F-80, college: Wash.-St.Louis) of obras
Tyler Field (206-F/C-78, college: San Diego) of obras

second team:
Fernando Titarelli (183-G-82) of obras
Cristian Romero (198-F-82) of atenas
William McFarlan (201-F-76, college: St.Thomas Aquinas) of quimsa
Chuck Robinson (201-F-72, college: E.Carolina) of regatas
Alejandro Zilli (200-F-82) of sionista

points:
Julio Mazzaro 31
Cristian Romero 30
Alejandro Zilli 23
Terry Taylor (203-C-81, agency: R.H.Consultancy, college: Virginia Tech) 20
Pablo Gil (188-G-78) 19

rebounds:
Byron Johnson (201-F/C-80, college: Belm.Abbey) 14
Jamaal Levy (206-C/F-83, college: Wake Forest) 12
William McFarlan 11
Eduardo Calvelli (195-G-82) 9
Bruno Ingratta (201-F/C-85) 9

assists:
Pablo Sebastian Rodriguez 12
Sebastian Acosta (188-G-82) 8
Javier Martinez (189-G-78) 6
Nicolas Ferreyra (185-G-85) 4
Pedro Franco (187-G-81) 4

*****************************************************
AUSTRIA

Storming fourth quarter lifts Klosterneuburg past Kapfenberg -by Eurobasket News
Klosterneuburg registered a massive 34:8 rally in the fourth frame of their matchup against Kapfenberg to pull away an 86:64 victory. The Bulls were slightly better throughout three quarters and entered the final period with a 4-point lead. But the hosts simply blew off their opponents in the fourth term. A well-balanced Klosterneuburg's offense dominated every facet of the game and stunned the visitors. Calvin Watson (196-G-85, college: N.Texas) paced the hosts with 16 points and 6 boards. Marquis Wright (203-F/C-80, college: Alabama) had 15 points, while Christoph Nagler (193-G-84) and Melvin Creddle (186-G-82, college: Mount Olive) provided 13 points apiece in a winning effort. Shawn Ray answered with 20 points and 11 rebounds for the Bulls. Ramiz Suljanovic (206-F/C-79, agency: R.H.Consultancy) added 15 points and 8 boards in a losing clause. Klosterneuburg improved to 13-7 record and would face Gmunden in the next round.
Meanwhile Furstenfeld retained the second spot in the ladder after they overcame Vienna 105:57 at home. It was a one-way traffic from the start as Furstenfeld took over and just piled up the lead. They were up by 20 points at halftime and never looked back afterwards. Michael Frazer was solid with 24 points and 17 boards for the home side. Cedrick Hensley (196-F/G-83, college: Minnesota St. Univ.) produced 21 points, while Milan Goljovic (203-F-71, agency: Globalsports/Globalevents) delivered 19 points in a win. Philipp Seel (193-G/F-85) dropped 20 points for the visiting side. Furstenfeld climbed to 15-5 record and takes on Wels on the road in Round 21. Vienna struggles at 2-18 record at the bottom of the table.

*****************************************************
BELGIUM

Uleb Game to be replayed -by Peter Buyse

The Uleb has decided that the game Oostende - Bologna needs to be replayed. According to some video footage the winning shot by Bologna was within the official time.
Oostende however claims to have other footage proving they are right and that the shot took 0.79 seconds instead of the 0.6 which was still on the clock.
According to an official statement from the Oostende management they have asked Uleb in agreement with Bologna to schedule the re-match for this saturday at 20.30.
Still according to the management they want to make their case on the court, but retains the right to an appeal.

If the game goes through Oostende's home game vs the league's nr 2 Liege will be postponed.



Transfer News -by Peter Buyse


Adam Hall (196-F/G-80, college: Virginia) was released by Charleroi today.

Hall was the league's second leading scorer the past season for Aalstar but his stats and playing time dropped drastically this year at Charleroi.

Antwerp Diamond Giants have signed Ayinde Ubaka (193-G-85, college: California) to a contract for the next 2 months.
He played till recent for German Bundesliga team Frankfurt.
Argentinian forward Gabriel Mikulas is out for about 8 weeks with a neck injury.


Leuven's new forward J.J. Sullinger (196-G-82, agency: 540 Sports, college: Ohio St.) only played 1.20 minutes in his debut when he injured his foot.


Liege Basket has released Neil MacDonald (208-C-84, agency: ACMT).



*****************************************************
BELIZE

The University of Belize Shines In Guatemala!!! -by David Magana
This past weekend the University of Belize and La Plebe team from Benque Viejo del Carmen participated in a basketball tournament in Peten, Flores along with the Seleccion Juvenil and Team Peten from Flores. Saturday night the matches began with La Plebe going against seleccion Juvenil. The Belizean team had a hard time beating the Peten team but in the end they were able to come out victorious by 3 points. The game ended 93-90.
In game two, the University of Belize played against Peten and from the beginning the UB squad was much more technically and physically superior to the point of completely shutting Peten in the fourth quarter. Eventhough the home team was completely wiped out, fans were delighted with the quality and display of basketball the young UB team showed. The screen plays, the impressive dunks and the discipline of the team made the home crowd like the Belizeans. The game ended by a score of 105 to 54 in favor of UB. For the Belizeans, Stephen Williams (188-G-83) and Farron Lauriano ended up with 19 points while Jorett Jones with 12.
Last Sunday night, the final match watch was played between the two Belizean teams and things were really heated up in the first half. In the opening of the game the UB team seemed to be lacking concentration as they started missing shots while La Plebe were capitalizing. Early in the first quarter the UB was down by eight but by the end of the first half, UB cut it short and were trailing by 3. La Plebe could not keep up in the third quarter and saw the UB team make a 10 point run to take a lead of nine. Lester Cadle (188-G-80) and Francis Castellanos got into foul trouble and were fouled out in the last minutes of the third quarter. With these two big losses, La Plebe just crumbled down. In the end UB took the Big W as the game ended 57-41. For UB Farron Lauriano ended with 19 points and in a losing effort, Horace Patten (188-F) had 13 points and Lester Cadle 11 points.

*****************************************************
BRAZIL

Brazilians National league -by Cristiano Grama
Five games had been played this Sunday for the fourth round of Brazilians National League. In a battle between two undefeated teams, Flamengo won against Saldanha at home by 15 points(94x79). The top scorer and MVP of the round was Marcelinho Machado (200-F/G-75, agency: Interperformances) with 26 points adding 7 rebounds, 7 assists and 5 steals. Helio Lima (188-G-81) with 18 points and 5 assists and Fernando Coloneze (208-C-78) with a double double made 11 points and 14 rebounds were the top players for Flamengo. For Saldanha, Leandro (-F/C) with 20 and Lucas Costa (205-C/F-80) with 21were the leaders in scoring. Minas won again at home against Lajeado, 102 x 92 with another show of Facundo Sucatzky (176-G-72, agency: Interperformances) he finishs the game with 18 points and 13 assists followed by Soro Pinto (190-F-80) with 24 and Jasper Johnson (201-C-83, college: Delta St.) with 21 points. For Lajeado, the top scorer was Audrei Parisotto (194-F-84) again with 23. Uberlandia loses his first at home, 73 x 65 for Joinville, with a inspired Espiga Soares (187-G-72), who maded seven 3 point shots, finished the game with 23. For Uberlandia, Jaz Cowan (205-F-83, college: Hampton) made 14 points and lead his team. Iguacu loses again at home, 94 x 59 for Cetaf. Joao Gabriel was the top scorer with 30 points for Cetaf. Finishing the round, FTC EAD loses at home in his debut, 62 x 60 for Londrina. The best player for Londrina was Ricardo de Azevedo (200-F-83) with 23 points, 4 rebounds and 4 steals. Universo/ Brasilia will start their season at home this tuesday against Londrina, the former head coach of Brazilians National Team Aluisio Xavier Ferreira who replaces Jose Carlos Vidal will try the second straight championship.

*****************************************************
CAMEROON

In the Pro world... -by Yann Tientcheu
Our Professional countrymen continue to show growth in their games all over the world as the 2007-2008 campaign is almost entering
its second and final phase.
FRENCH LEAGUE
In Pro A Victor Samnick (203-F-79, college: Nancy BC) and his club, Nancy Basketball Club, railed in gameday 14 with an ear-piercing 88-68 win over Cholet. Samnick finished
the game with 15pts, 3rbds and 1 stl as Nancy remaned 2nd to Lyon-Villeurbanne with equal amount of points, 25.
In Pro B, Jacques Wampfler (195-F-83, agency: ANYPEX) and N'kembe Frederick (1m93-G-75) were opposed as their respective teams, Boulazac and Quimper fought a close battle ending
79-76 Boulazac. Wampfler had 8pts and an impressive 10rbds in the game, while N'kembe who has proved himself a consistent scorer displayed
17pts and 3rbds.
Daniel Oyono (196-F-83), a newcomer in the Pro B League, is having encouraging beginnings with Limoges. After scoring 4 pts in his Jan. 5th meeting opposing Limoges to Quimper,
Oyono signed 8pts in 20 mns of action in his 2nd game that opposed him to Brice Vounang (203-F-82, college: San Diego) of Rouen. Vounang reciprocated with 8pts in 18mns of playing time, but
Oyono was the winner of the battle with Limoges by a close 69-68.
Loic Akono (180-G-87) had 7pts in 9mns of action in a close win of Brest (79-76) over Saint-Quentin.

BELGIUM LEAGUE
Stephane Pelle (204-C/F-80, college: Colorado) who remains a major actor of the Belgium league (2nd in player rating) led Belgacom Liege Basketball Club to a 80-73 win over Spirou Basketball Club. Pelle had
13pts, 6rbds and 1stl in the game. He is currently the 6th best scorer (16.43/g), 3rd best rebounder (8.37 rbds/g) and 1st in rebounds record in a game with 19 realizations.

SWISS LEAGUE
In the National League A, Daniel Nyom (196-F-80, college: NW Nazarene) is still the 2nd best scorer (13.7pts/g) and the 2nd best rebounder (8.3rbds/g) of Vevey Riviera basketball club. He had 15pts and 9rbds
in the Jan. 5th meeting opposing Vevey to Birstal Starwing. Nyom's teammate and countryman, Eric Edougue (196-F-79, college: Saginaw Valley) registered a double-double during that same game: 19pts and 10rbds.
Edougue is currently averaging 8.5pts and 7.5rbds/g. Vevey's roster counts a third Camerounian player named Claude Atemengue (181-G-89).
In the National; League B Nielsen Flemming is averaging 14.2pts (2nd best scorer) and 4.7rbds per game for Chene BC ranked 2nd in the overall standings.

GERMAN LEAGUE
Eyango Ekambi (197-F-82) had 7pts and 5rbds in a 82-58 loss of his TV Langen to Cuxhaven Bascats.

NCAA News...Tchekane Bofia carries Maine University... -by Yann Tientcheu

Philippe Tchekane Bofia (6-6, 230 Guard) showed the way to victory on Jan. 12th, scoring 21 pts for Maine Uniuversity. The cameroonian player who acknowledges Yaounde as his hometown
also added 3 rebds and 3 asts to go with his game high offensive performance in the 77-74 win of Maine University over the University of Maryland at Baltimore County.
Akini Akini (6-10, 231 Forward) proved his outmost importance for Florida A&M's men's basketball program on Jan. as they faced a tough opposition from the Howard University Bisons. Akini
who spent most of the first half on the bench due to early foul troubles within the first 3 mns of the meeting (2 fouls), came back in the 2nd half determined to carry the FAMU Rattkers
to victory in spite of a deficit of 10 pts at the end of the first period. He sure did so by scoring 12 pts and adding 2 rbds and 1 stl. The senior was 4 for 5 from the floor and 4 for 6
from the free-throw line. Florida won the game by the final score of 57 to 52.
Erick Nsangou (183-G-87), Esdsola Ericlk (6-8, 210 Forward) (for Florida International) and Boris Siakam (201-F) (for Western kentucky) were opposed on Jan. 12th as the Flotida University Golden panthers paid a visit
to the Western kentucky University Hilltoppers. Boris Siakam came out victorious of this Cameroonian confrontation with the Hilltoppers, scroing 7 pts and grabbing 6 rbds in 12 mns
of playing time to contribute to a final 76-60 scoreboard result. Nsangou, finished the game with 6 pts, 2 rbds and 2 asts in 14mns of action.



*****************************************************
CROATIA

Young players in Croatia. Part 3: Kvarner Rijeka -by Dani Erceg
-KVARNER RIJEKA

Fran Pilepic (192-G-89)
Stats: 13.9ppg, 1.7rpg

Very talented SG. Already plays like experienced player. Has very good outside shot, solid physical abilities and reads the game well. Had much playing time in A2 League last season and that helped him a lot. He is already very important player in Kvarner.

Slavonski Brod is caught up by Sibenka -by Eurobasket News
Croatian A league sees now two teams on top with 8-2 record. Slavonski Brod was caught up by Sibenka after a loss to Borik 66:77. Sibenik showed no mercy last night against Alkar and took 113:75 voctory. Luka Drezga (194-G-87) drained almost anything he attempted. He finished the game with 38 points and three steals. Zoran Vrkic followed him with 28 points.

In Adriatic league Vojvodina made the biggest surprise in round 17 by beating Cibona in Zagreb 78:68. Tulips played a fantastic second half, especially the last quarter when they finished 9-24. They improved their record to 8-9 while Cibona dropped to 9-8. Tandem Ivan Ivanovic (205-F-80, agency: Beo Basket), who scored 22 points, and center Vladimir Golubovic (212-C-86), who was MVP of the game with impressive stats 14 points, 18 rebounds and 5 steals were the best for the winners. On the other side Larry Ayuso (190-G-77, agency: Edge Sports, college: USC) netted 16 points for Cibona.
Zagreb CO had a road win over FMP 72:75. FMP had a lead of 11 points at halftime but Zagreb succeeded to equalize in the third and to ensure the 5th win at the end of the last period. Jakov Vladovic with 19 points was the top scorer for the winners.
Zadar registered its 11th consecutive win by downing Siroki 76:62 at home behind 27 points from Shammel Stallworth. Split CO edged Helios Domzale 85:91 behind as Marlon Garnett (188-G-75, college: Santa Clara) nailed 34 points.

*****************************************************
CZECH REP.

Nymburk increased to 20-1 record -by Eurobasket News
Nymburk looks very tough this season and reached already 20-1 record. Its last victim was USK Praha that was thrashed 98:63. Blake Schlib led the winners with 25 points. Radoslav Rancik (207-F/C-78, college: St.Cloud St.) netted 18, while Monty Mack (191-G-77, agency: Interperformances, college: Massachusetts) scored 17. There was no time the spectator could think of another result but for win. The hosts controlled the first half finishing it with 53:36 margin. Another 30:10 allowed Nymburk to seal the outcome. Roderick Platt (205-C-75, agency: Court Side, college: Loyola, MD) top-scored for Praha with 20 points and 10 rebounds.
Two teams that follow the favorite won their games as well. Novy Jicin overcame Kolin 94:77 as Robert Sarovic (205-F-78, agency: Court Side) top-scored with 18 points. Prostejov defeated Sadska 87:64 behind 15 points from Aleksandar Bojic. Both winners improved to 17-4 record.
Kondori Liberec thrashed Usti nad Labem 120:64 making them look miserable with 3-18 record. Synthesia Pardubice defeated Brno 68:56 to take 12-9 record. NH Ostrava had a road win over BK Decin 81:85 to improve at 11-10.
The next games will be played on January 19th. CEZ Nymburk will go to BC Kolin that is 5-16 in the league.

*****************************************************
EGYPT

GEZIRA participates in the 19th edition of Dubai International tournament -by Sherif Soliman
The 19th edition of Dubai International tournament was made last night, Gezira will be in group(A ) which seems much easier than group(B).Gezira will leave to Dubai on Thursday with a great chance to reach the semifinal. Kaled el kady will not leave with the team for exams while Ahmed zien is still in rehabilitation. JASON Keep the big centre 208 will play with Gezira in the tournament.

- Group A:
UAE National Team (Al Boom Holding)
Mahram (Sama Al Imarat real estate) - Iran (Titleholders)
Al Gezira (Aramisc) - Egypt
Al Ittihad Aleppo (Continental real estate) - Syria
Sagesse Beirut (Plus real estate) - Lebanon

- Group B:
Al Ahli Dubai - Hosts
Zain 'ex-Fastlink' (Dubai Duty Free) - Jordan
Sporting Al Riyadi Beirut (Steelfab)- Lebanon
Saba Battery (Fly Emirates) - Iran
Al Jalaa Aleppo (Dubai Land) - Syria (Runner-ups)

- The tournament's system will be as follows:
1- First round: Teams play against each other
2- Quarter Finals: 5th team will be excluded from each group...Rest teams will play crosses (1st-4th, 2nd-3rd)
3- Semi-Finals4- Final

*****************************************************
FINLAND

KORISLIIGA: Kouvot 600 games on Top level -by Rauno Hurmalainen

Korisliiga, Round 24-25: So many injuries this season on Top level in Finland. Almost every Team has suffered and players have been or are
on inured list for several reasons. Right now Kataja (Joensuu) is having three starters on injured list. That hurts for sure and visitor YMCA Lahti
won tonight in Joensuu by 22 pts (73-95). Kouvot was playing without American PG Wayne Bernard (190-G-81, college: Davidson), but beat anyway Korihait (Uusikaupunki) 83-67. The game was # 600 for Kouvot on Top level. Corey Smith (196-G/F, agency: Warren Sports, college: Vanderbilt) led Kouvot with 23 pts and 14 rbs. Roope Suonio (176-G-82) added 17 pts. Pyrinto (Tampere) defeated Team Componenta (Karkkila) 90-78. Kauhajoki had a 16-point-lead over Tarmo (Porvoo), but visitor Tarmo won the fourth quarter 14-33 and the game 81-91. James Wright (187-G-81, agency: Elfus-Siegel Management (ESM), college: Colorado) scored game high 25 pts. Mark McCarroll (208-F/C-80, agency: CAA Sports, college: Pittsburgh) had again a double-double 21/13. Honka (Espoo) is almost healthy now. Finally. Even Tim Kisner (188-G-78, college: Cent.Michigan) played tonight after two month's break as Honka won over KTP (Kotka) 94-87.

Kataja - YMCA Lahti 73-95 (43-54) (Louis Hinnant 21, Andre Foreman 18 - Ed Williams 20, Pierre Jallow 20).

Kauhajoki - Tarmo 81-91 (44-33) (Darryl Hudson 22, Mario Porter 21 - James Wright 25, Mark McCarroll 21/13).

Honka - KTP 94-87 (36-37) (Jukka Matinen 22, Petteri Koponen 21 - Toni Ilmonen 25, Jermaine Spivey 16).

Pyrinto - Team Componenta 90-78 (48-39) (Damon Williams 23, Damion Dantzler 18/11 - Chris Hester 25, Nick Wallery 19/11).

Kouvot - Korihait 83-67 (45-37) (Corey Smith 23/14, Roope Suonio 17 - Kyle Shiloh 19/11, Darius Glover 12).




KORISLIIGA: Three thrillers tonight! -by Rauno Hurmalainen

Korisliiga, Round 24-26: Four games tonight and three thrillers out of them, one OT game and one double OT game! Kataja (Joensuu) caused Kauhajoki
the seventh loss in a row by winning 92-75. Honka (Espoo) has it always difficult at Karkkila. Also tonight. It was a one-point-game (58-59) and 1:13
minutes to go. Matt Williams (200-F-77, college: Montana) scored two pts (58-61), when 0:48 minutes left and Kimmo Muurinen (202-F-81, college: UALR) finally saved Honka by making a trey 12 seconds before the buzzer. Jukka Matinen DNP (fever). 75-year-old ToPo (Helsinki) needed an OT to win over Kouvot (Kouvola) first time this season in Helsinki. Kouvot had a seven-point-lead (57-64), when there was five minutes time left. ToPo outscored Kouvot 7-0 during those minutes and OT was needed. Josh Gonner's (188-G-82, college: S.Carolina) lay-up (14 seconds to go) were the last pts during the regular 40 minutes. OT was exciting as well. The winning basket was made by Tyson Patterson (175-G-78, college: Appalachian St.). ToPo has now won 20 games in a row. The new record is only two games short. Basketball is sometimes strange. Honka won by scoring 65 pts and ToPo by scoring 70 pts after OT. But you may not be a winner even you or your Team is scoring 120 pts. KTP (Kotka) made 120 pts, but lost vs YMCA Lahti at home after two OTs 120-122! That game must have been exciting! The lead was changing 10 times during the OTs and six times the Teams were tied! The winning basket was made by Ed Williams (200-F-80, agency: Rasmussen Services, college: NC-Wilmington) only four seconds before the buzzer. YMCA Lahti had seven players in double figures. Team made 15 treys in the game (15/31 = 48,4%). The victory # 500 for YMCA Lahti on Top level!

KTP - YMCA Lahti 2OT 120-122 (108)(94)(48-51) (Steve Smith 26, Manny Dies 20/13 - Davont Jackson 27, Pierre Jallow 17/15).

ToPo - Kouvot OT 70-69 (64)(35-32) (Josh Gonner 19, Timo Heinonen 16 - Corey Smith 26/16, Tuomas Iisalo 18).

Team Componenta - Honka 58-65 (33-32) (Nick Wallery 15/13, Chris Hester 14/11 - Kimmo Muurinen 18, Monte Cummings 17).

Kataja - Kauhajoki 92-75 (42-38) (Andre Foreman 26, Anssi Kinnaslampi 17 - Mario Porter 25, Darryl Hudson 18).



KORISLIIGA: Pyrinto winning on the road -by Rauno Hurmalainen

Only one (TV-)game tonight. Korihait (Uusikaupunki) winning five home games in a row had to admit, that Pyrinto (Tampere) was bigger, better and smarter.
Pyrinto won by 17 pts 71-88, which was Team's victory # 3 this season on the road. There was a huge difference between Teams' foreigner (American)
players. Korihait three American players Kyle Shiloh (190-G-85, agency: Worldwide Hoops, college: Nevada) - Glenn Stokes (170-G-76, college: American) - Darius Glover (196-G/F) combined 28 pts and 15 rbs in 87 minutes. Pyrinto had Damon Williams (199-F-73, agency: Higher Vision Sports, college: Colorado St.-Pueblo) alone, who had bigger figures than that: 29 pts and 16 rbs in 40 minutes. Damion Dantzler (202-F-76, college: Louisville) and M.C. Mazique (206-F/C-75, college: Alabama) combined still 40 pts and 17 rbs. Pyrinto's three American players played 107 minutes. Oh, yes...ex-NBA-player Eric Washington (192-F/G-74, agency: Interperformances, college: Alabama) DNP. He is still on injured list (ankle).

Korihait - Pyrinto 71-88 (40-40) (Jussi Kumpulainen 20/12, Kyle Shiloh 13/7 - Damon Williams 29/16, Damion Dantzler 25/8, M.C.Mazique 15/9).



Lapua beat TUNMKY after OT & Other results -by Jari Vikman
Lapuan Korikobrat took their second back to back win by outscoring TUNMKY 90-98. Lapua was clearly ahead three quarters but TUNMKY's 20-0 run in fourth quarter made the game even. Sakari Salminen (200-F-87) obviously had a green light and why shouldn't: 29/11 with great percentages promises good for rest of the season. 'His Clutchness' Baboucarr Bojang (204-F-80, agency: R.H.Consultancy, college: Illinois St.) showed some rebounding skills when game was in OT by taking critical rebounds and scoring important points. He was 25/17 against TUNMKY defense. Also young Kyle Carhart 23/10 and Tyrwone Still 21/9 satisfied the EB authors.

Rivalry between Äanekosken Huima and BC Jyvaskyla was tight although Huima got two points, result 99-85. It seemed like Huima coach Markku Ranta have succeeded to bring some sense and imagination in offense after few poor games. Several Huima players did well, Parnell Smith 24/10 and Kenny Jones 19/7 to mention few. Former Huima player Antti Kanervo (191-G/F-89) collected 29 points (21 behind the arc) and grabbed a rebound.

Strengthened Honka Akatemia crushed HNMKY 55-104. Akatemia used their whole arsenal and every player scored. It's needless to pick up single player's performance, this one was team victory. HNMKY struggled in everything, only Eetu Nieminen put scored over ten points (12/3). With recent signings Ije Nwankwo and Larry Hall (188-G, college: W.Oregon) from Nokia, Akatemia will rise like rocket from last place.

Other results:

Visa Basket - FoKoPo 57-110
Antti Raami (197-F-81) 34/10, Juuso Lehtimaki 10/11 - Chris Smith (201-F/C-82, college: St.Edward's) 27/12/5blk, Aubrey Conerly 24/2/5as


RU/Topo - Pantterit: 95-72
Antti Niskanen 16/6 - Charlie Frierson 19/8

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

Pro A Day 14: It was hot for ASVEL ! -by Maxime Lory

Versus the bottom of the class, Stade Clermontois Basket Auvergne, Adecco ASVEL Lyon-Villeurbanne won in overtime 87-85. Le Mans Sarthe Basket which was beat by Paris-Levallois last week, defeated JA Vichy Val d'Allier Auvergne basket 78-49. In the other games, Sluc Nancy Basket Pro won vs Cholet Basket and Elan Bearnais Pau-Orthez lost vs Hyeres-Toulon Var Basket.

It wasn't an easy game for the green team Saturday at ' Maison Des Sports '. After the first quarter, the locals lead the game by 13 (19-6) behind the big Robert Conley (198-G/F-77, college: Clayton St.). In the last minute Adecco ASVEL Lyon-Villeurbanne forced the overtime and finally won 87 to 85.

Without their playmaker, Jimmal Ball (178-G-78, college: Akron), the men of JA Vichy Val d'Allier Auvergne basket couldn't do anything against a team of Le Mans Sarthe Basket which wanted to win after 6 straight defeats. From the start of the game, the Euroleague's team took the lead and easily won versus a poor team of JA Vichy Val d'Allier Auvergne basket where only two men scored 10pts.

One week after the defeat versus Adecco ASVEL Lyon-Villeurbanne, Sluc Nancy Basket Pro won at home in Jean Weille 88-68 behind 20 pts of Jeff Greer (195-G/F-79, college: Rutgers). Strasbourg which is in a good period after a difficult start of the championship, defeated STB Le Havre. In spite of that, they stayed in the race for the ' Semaine des AS '.

ES Chalon-Sur-Saone which is in a difficult period, won 85 to 69 versus another team in 'panic', BCM Gravelines Dunkerque Grand Littoral. In this game, John Ford (207-C/F-78, college: Colorado St.) scored 21pts, grabbed 14rbs and blocked 2 shoots.

Elan Bearnais Pau-Orthez is still at the bottom of the standings after a fresh defeat versus the surprising team of Hyeres-Toulon Var Basket. Sean Colson (182-G-75, college: Charlotte) scored 23pts and dished out 5asts. The champion, Chorale de Roanne Basket won at the Center of Paris Bercy ( 15,000 seats ) versus the Paris-Levallois of Ron Stewart .

At last, Entente Orleans 45 beat JDA Dijon Bourgogne 88 to 83.

Top Scorer : Sean Colson : 23pts
Top Rebounder: Demba M'Bengue (203-F-75):: & John Ford : 14rbs
Top Assits : Eddie Shannon (180-G-76, college: Florida): 10asts



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

BU's Team defeated Kalev -by Levan Mikeladze

TU/Rock Tartu defeated BC Kalev/Cramo Tallinn 81:73 in Saku Suurhall, Tallinn, and stays in the competition for the first place of the regular season. This was the first loss of the home championships for BC Kalev/Cramo after 17 victories this season.

In European level, TU/Rock has been much more confident during last month - they are undefeated in FIBA EuroCup and have won 3 out of 4 last games in SEB Baltic League. Kalev/Cramo, on the other hand, has lost 4 games in a row in ULEB Cup. Considering that, the outcome of the Big Match was not suprising

TU/Rock held the lead from the first until the last minute. They led 10:2, 15:8 and 23:13 in 1st but two three-pointers from Valmo Kriisa (190-G-74) took Kalev back into the game. 1st quarter ended 25:19. In 2nd, Kalev/Cramo came within one point, 32:33, after another fast break. Rock didn't fall apart - they made 10-point run, mainly through fine combinations between Kullamae and Brian Cusworth (213-C-84, college: Harvard). Rock won the first half 47:37 behind 16 points from Cusworth.

In 3rd, Kalev made a big comeback. In the middle of the quarter the score was 54:54. Kalev again lost the upper hand - they kept missing free throws and Rock regained the confidence, leading after the 3rd - 64:59. In 4th the game became nervous - both missed shots and made turnovers until two three-pointers from Gert Kullamae (198-G/F-71) took Rock to a safe zone.

Georgian Giorgi Tsintsadze (192-G-86) scored 17 while Cusworth 16 and Kullamae 14 for TU/Rock. Travis Reed (203-C-79, agency: Court Side, college: Long Beach St.) scored 17, Kristjan Kangur (202-F-82) 16 and Valmo Kriisa 13 for Kalev/Cramo.



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

Griffin in Hagen for tryout -by Moritz Korff
Chase Griffin (188-G-83, college: Pepperdine) beginns a ten-day tryout with Phoenix Hagen (2. Bundesliga Pro A) today. The 24-year-old from Sammamish, Washington spent his entire collegiate career at Pepperdine University (NCAA1). As a senior (2006-2007) he led the Waves in points per game (15.7) and also averaged 4.4 rpg, 2 apg and 1.7 spg.

Ubaka leaves the Skyliners -by Moritz Korff
Ayinde Ubaka (193-G-85, college: California) is no longer a member of the Deutsche Bank Skyliners Frankfurt (1. Bundesliga). In November the 22-year-old Guard had signed a contract until the end of January, which the Skyliners officials decided not to extend after the recovery of team captain Pascal Roller (180-G-76). According to reports on the Skyliners' web site Ubaka will probably move to Belgium and join the Antwerp Diamond Giants.

Jermaine Robinson to Bernau -by Moritz Korff
SSV Lok Bernau (Regionalliga North) has added Jermaine Robinson (188-G-81, college: Cleveland St.) to the roster for the remainder of this current season. The 26-year-old Combo-Guard is a product of Cleveland State University (NCAA1) and averaged 19.6 ppg, 4.6 rpg, 2.6 apg and 1.5 spg in 2003-2004, his senior-season. Since leaving college Robinson - a native of Philadelphia, Pa. - suited up for teams in Norway, Israel and Germany. After joining SV Hagen-Haspe in February 07 he played 5 games in the Regionalliga West and scored 17.2 points per contest.

*****************************************************
HOLLAND

Rotterdam Challengers Win Overtime Thriller In Groningen -by Sanders Jackson


Sunday night in the Martiniplaza, the fiesty Rotterdam Challengers team stood up to the challenge vs. Hanzevast Capitals, overcoming a 50-38 halftime deficit to dominate the 2nd half, forcing overtime and a big steal and game winning layup by surging Sullivan Sykes (193-G/F-81, college: St.Joseph, IN) and a last second block by Chaz Twan Briggs (201-F-80, college: W.Virginia) to give Rotterdam a 94-92 upset win. Syes led all scorers with 24 pts. with also 7 steals, with Djoenie Steenvoorde (195-G/F-81, agency: R.H.Consultancy) continuing his strong recent play with 21 pts. Dwayne Archbold (198-F/G-80, agency: CAA Sports, college: Siena) led Hanzevast with 22 pts. Both teams did not take care of the ball (both 29 turnovers each), but Rotterdam outscored Hanzevast by a big margin from the field (28-18 difference), scored 41 total points off Donar's turnovers, plus had a 20-10 bench difference. Hanzevast had three key players that were missing in overtime (five fouls by Grunheid and Englicky, a flagrant foul and ejection by Jansen), which did not help their cause.


With the win, Rotterdam are now 10-8, while Hanzevast falls to 11-8 and second straight loss.



Landstede Basketball Pull Out Again Close Win In Leiden -by Sanders Jackson


Heading into the Landstede-ZZ Leiden matchup, the Landstede team were mired in a seven-game losing streak, hungry and thirsty for a win, and was no better place to do that at than in Leiden, where they this season on November 11th won in a close matchup by the score of 70-68. On Saturday night, Landstede would quench their hunger and thirst, snapping their losing streak with an 84-79 win over ZZ. The scrappy and smaller Landstede team outworked the taller ZZ team on the boards, winning the battle at a 50-36 clip, holding ZZ to only 6 offensive boards. Lsndstede leading scorer Darnell Wilson (198-F-85, college: Canisius) had a double-double with 23 pts. and 11 rebounds to lead Landstede. J.S. Nash (188-G-83, agency: Court Side, college: Oregon St.) led ZZ with 22 pts. Landstede moves to 6-14 and ZZ falls to 8-12 with their 2nd loss in a row.

Den Helder Seals Win 3OT Thriller Over Matrixx Magixx -by Sanders Jackson

Saturday night in Den Helder, the young Den Helder Seals team fought tooth and nail vs. a formidable Matrixx Magixx team for three overtimes, with scores of 92-92 at the end of regulation, 99-99, and 112-112, before Den Helder had the last word, winning in the third overtime by the score of 125-124. J.R. Duffey (201-F/G-84, agency: Court Side, college: Niagara) led Den Helder with 31 pts.(6 three-pointers), Bradley Strickland (206-F/C-85, agency: Court Side, college: Evansville) added 27 pts. (11-15 FG) and pulled down 14 boards. PG Dane Bradshaw (193-G-84, agency: Court Side, college: Tennessee) had a double-double with 22 pts. and 10 assists, and Robert Kulawick (191-G-86) added 21 pts. (4 three-pointers). Tyler Smith (203-F-80, agency: Players Group, college: Penn St.) led Matrixx with 26 pts. and 19 rebounds to lead seven Matrixx players in double figures. Den Helder made 19 three-pointers and shot 58.7% FG. The Den Helder Seals are now 3-16 and snapped a six-game losing streak.

Aris Friesland Surprises Upstairs Weert -by Sanders Jackson

In Leeuwarden on Saturday night, the team of Tony Vandenbosch took care of business vs. recently inconsistent Upstairs Weert, taking control of the game tempo from the 2nd quarter on, winning convincingly by the score of 91-74. Aris outscored Upstairs by a +20 difference in the last three quarters, with veteran and recent new addition Mike Nahar (211-C-71, agency: Court Side, college: Wright St.) being the difference maker for Aris. Nahar had a perfect shooting night for Aris, making all eight of his shot attempts and both free throws for 20 total points. FEB top scorer Roy Booker (191-G-83, college: SE Missouri St.) scored a game-high 30 pts., with five Aris players in double figures, not having much resistance to the basket, with total shooting numbers of 64.1% FG and 9 of 19 from the three-point line. Trey McDowell (188-G-85, college: Louisiana Tech) led Upstairs with 23 pts. Aris snapped afour-game losing streak and are now 4-16.

MyGuide Amsterdam Manhandle Eiffel Towers -by Sanders Jackson

Heading into the Sunday evening marquee matchup between defending Dutch champions Eiffel Towers and current FEB leader MyGuide Amsterdam, the defending Dutch champions are in an adjustment period after the recent dismissals of Jayson Wells and Greg Stevenson, trying to find themselves. MyGuide forced them to look a little further, taking control of the game in the last minutes, winning on Eiffel's floor in a 97-95 thriller and their second win this season over Eiffel. There were 12 lead changes and 9 ties throughout the game, but a difference maker was the ability of MyGuide in getting to the free throw line with abundance (30 of 38 FT's, including 20 of 24 FT's the 2nd half), as well as their ability to hold on to the lead despite shooting only 33.3% FG the 2nd half. Jeron Roberts (194-G/F-76, agency: Gross Zeev ISA, college: Wyoming) and Mohammed Abukar (208-F-85, college: San Diego St.) led MyGuide with 18 pts. each., Peter Van Paassen (210-C/F-78, agency: Court Side, college: St.Bonaventure) added 17 pts. and 5 assists, and Stefan Wessels (203-F-84, agency: R.H.Consultancy) added 16, including 3 three-pointers.Eiffel forward Darrell Tucker (206-F-80, agency: Hart Sports Mngm, college: USF) continues on his recent tear, scoring a game and season-high 32 pts., with Kees Akerboom (199-F-83, agency: Court Side) adding 21. With the win, MyGuide wins its fifth straight and 10 of last 11 to improve to 17-3, while Eiffel suffers its third striaght loss and are 3 1/2 games behind MyGuide in the FEB standings.

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

ASE: Gray cut, Johnson on tryout -by Tamas Deri
The management of ASE decided to break the contract with american guard Johnny Gray (186-G-83, college: Pacific) and invited 33-years old guard, Kendrick Johnson (185-G-75, college: Point Loma) on a tryout for a week. Johnson is a very experienced player who played already in Turkey, Greece, Germany, Belgium, and this season in Bosnia.

Round 14: two more games -by Tamas Deri

BODROGI BAU-VASARHELYI KOSARSULI - POLAROID-LAMI-VED-KÖRMEND 92-82
(23-20, 17-17, 22-14, 30-31)
Hodmezővasarhely, Att.: 600, Referees: Hartyani, Gorka, Csősz
VASARHELY: Drahos 6, David Brooks (191-G-82, college: Niagara) 36/6, Kovats 8, Eric Freeman (205-C-79, college: Ky Wesleyan) 21/3, Levente Gemes (208-C-73, agency: Laszlo Vinko Services) 16/3,: Kukla 2, Boszormenyi 3, Coach: Czuprak Laszlo
KÖRMEND: Fodor M. 15/6, Ferencz 7/3, Trummer 12/6, Peter Vavra (203-F/C-80) 12, Stanley Ocitti (203-F/C-80, agency: Coates Sports Management, college: Binghamton) 19/3, Thomas 6, Fodor G. 4, Kocsis 2, Graczer 2, Toth 3/3, Coach: Krivacevic Dragoljub


MAFC - SZOLNOKI OLAJ KK 67-69

(16-10, 14-14, 21-23, 16-22)
Budapest, Att.: 1000, Referees: Forrai, Adam, Gyorffy
MAFC: Young 4, Wehner 8/6, Edwin Draughan (196-G/F-82, college: Yale) 32/6, Vavra 7/6, Peter Kecskes (208-F/C-79, agency: Laszlo Vinko Services, college: Hawaii) 12/3, Fulop 2, Kolarics 2, Takacs, Coach: Dinnyes Attila
OLAJ: Thomas Kelley (188-G-76, agency: Avi Zilberman, college: Michigan St.) 20/3, Molnar 6, Hollins 9/3, Donatas Sabaliauskas (200-F-75) 11/9, Gobi 8, Harazin 5, Cziczas 10/3, Coach: Por Peter



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

Explosion expect continued success in 2008 -by Trask Frost
Monroe, WA—The Snohomish County Explosion have a new name and a new home for their second season in the International Basketball League, but many things will be the same when the Explosion take the floor in 2008. Returning to the lineup is the high-scoring trio of Rashaad Powell (6'6''-F-81, agency: Tank Sports, college: Idaho), Jamaal Miller (6'1''-G-82, agency: Court Side) and Justin Murray (6'6''-F-81, agency: Tank Sports, college: Washington St.).

Powell, the 2006 IBL All-Star Game MVP, led the Explosion and finished sixth in the IBL in scoring in 2007 with an average of 28.5 points per game. A dynamic presence in every facet of the game, Powell also finished second on the team in rebounds (7.5 per game) and assists (4.0 per game).

Miller (19.6 points per game) is a versatile scorer—equally adept as a spot up shooter or getting to the rim off the dribble. At 6'1', Miller is a solid rebounder (4.0 rebounds per game) for his size.

The 6'6' Murray also plays bigger than his size. The former Washington State Cougar led the Explosion in rebounding (7.7 rebounds per game) while scoring 14.8 points per contest. Murray was the leading scorer in the 2007 IBL All-Star Game with a 41 point outburst.

Also returning to the Explosion in 2008 is head coach Randy Redwine. Redwine guided the IBL's West Division champs to a 17-5 record a season ago, and expects to build on that success this coming season. 'It's great to have key guys like Rashaad, Justin and Jamaal back,' said Redwine. 'The fact that they are familiar with our system, and have already had a season to play together is a boost for us.'

The Explosion frontline will be bolstered by the return of big men Mike Jones (6'10') and David White (6'11'). Jones was a steady contributor for the Explosion last season (2.9 points per game) while White saw limited action.

The Explosion kick off their 2008 season at the Monroe Sports Arena on March 8 against the Bellingham Slam. For more information, visit www.explosionbasketball.net or visit www.iblhoopsonline.com.

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

Underachieving Petrochimi sack coach Hatami -by Houman Bagheri

Petrochimi, the runner-up of last season's Iranian Super League fired coach Mehran Hatami, after achieving poor results since the beginning of the season.

The crisis-hit Petrochimi were initially considered among the teams likely to contend for the championship this season but got off to a miserable start and struggled to a 12-10 record, putting them 7th in the rankings, in a week before the play-offs.

The latest loss came last week, a crushing 95-84 defeat by Gol-Gohar, the 10th ranked team on the table.

Petrochimi has named their technical manager, Mohammad Kasaeipour to replace Hatami. However, Kasaeipour said today he would be the coach temporarily until a new coach is named by the club shortly. In the first game with their new coach, Petrochimi achieved a stunning result on Monday after they defeated the Asian Champions, Saba Battery 77-76.

Play-off games are scheduled to start on January 24th, 2008.



*****************************************************
IRELAND

National Cup Semifinals -by Eurobasket News
The Tigers and Killester made it through to the National Cup Finals. They secured their respective victories in the National Basketball Arena yesterday to claim the Final spots. The Tigers overcame UCD Marian, while Dart Killester bumped Shamrock Rovers to advance. UCD/Marian are rare guests to this stage of the competition as they made it to the semis for the first time in over 20 years. The Tigers meanwhile defend their last season's National Cup title. The first quarter proved to be a close battle with UCD Marian finally claiming a 16:15 lead after 10 minutes. Carl Hadley (193-F, college: Sam Houston St.) scored 9 points for the Tigers early in the second quarter and the defending Cup holders gained the speed. But UCD/Marian were ready to stand up for the challenge. Heath Sitton (186-G-85, agency: IceBasket) capped the first half with a three-pointer to give UCD/Marian a 40:32 advantage. Michael Quirke (198-C-80) and Carl Hadley opened the third frame firing from all guns as their trebles dragged the Tigers back into contest. Carl Hadley later knocked down two more treys to give the Tigers a 54:47 lead. Soon Michael Quirke stepped up for the Tigers as he dominated under the rims and ensured a 71:60 lead for them late in regulation. Carl Hadley was benched because of an injury at the crunch time but it never affected the final outcome as veteran John Teehan sealed the win for the Tigers. Carl Hadley drained 30 points to lead the winners. Chris Jordan (193-G-82, college: Sam Houston St.) added 18 points, while Michael Quirke had 13 points for the Tigers. David Ryan (201-F-84, college: Siena) dropped 25 points for UCD/Marian.
Meanwhile Killester outplayed Shamrock Rovers in another semifinal clash. The Rovers opened the game on an 11:4 run but Killester recovered and grabbed a 21:18 advantage after 10 minutes. Paddy Kelly and John Behan (193-G-85) bombarded from downtown in the second quarter and allowed Killester to extend the gap to 15 points at halftime. Killester did not slow down after the intermission as John Behan and Michael Goj (198-G/F-81) deepened the gap to 24 points to bury any hopes for Shamrock Rovers. Arnaud Dahi (202-F-83, agency: IceBasket, college: ODU) scored 27 points to pace Killester. Michael Bonaparte (196-F-82, agency: IceBasket, college: Coll.of the Ozarks) poured in 24 points for the winners. Jonathan Reed (183-G-81, college: Clayton St.) answered with 27 points for Shamrock Rovers.

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

Lega2-15th Day -by Gabriele Fioretti
19 scored by Mike Nardi (186-G-85, college: Villanova) for Montecatini, but 21 scored by Tim Pickett (193-G/F-81, agency: Interperformances, college: Florida St.) gave success to Imola at Montecatini. 5 players in double figure led Reggio Emilia to success against Livorno (Jermaine Boyette (188-G-78, agency: SportsTalent, college: Weber St.) at 18 pts). 31 pts by David Moss (196-F-83, agency: SportsTalent, college: Indiana St.) and Jesi got the ticket for the Final Four defeating Caserta (Raymond Tutt (194-G-75, agency: World Sport Agency, college: UCSB) 24 pts and Arthur Johnson (206-F/C-81, college: Missouri) at 22 pts). Andre Collins (183-G-82, college: Loyola, MD) and Taquan Dean (193-G-83, college: Louisville) tied at 28 scored but Ferrara won at home against Casale. Luis Flores (188-G-81, college: Manhattan) scored 26 and Fabriano won on the road at Novara (Adams at 23). Surprising success by Pistoia at Sassari (Brent Darby (185-G-81, college: Ohio St.) 28 pts) thanks to 21 by Ronald Davis (190-G-82, college: Wisc.-Milwaukee). Quadre Lollis (200-F/C-73, college: Montana St.) scored 20 and led back to the top of the standings Soresina defeating Veroli (Tyrone Grant (202-F-77, college: St.John's) at 18). Ariel Filloy (190-G-87, agency: Interperformances) missed the last shot and Pavia (BJ McKie (188-G-77, college: S.Carolina) 22 scored) won on Rimini (Rashad Bell (200-F-82, college: Boston U.) 24). So Soresina-Jesi and Ferrara-Sassari will be the two semifinals for the Final Four that will be played March 1st.
Agr.Glo.Mont.-Aget Imola 71-73
Trenkwalder RE-TDShop.it LI 86-64
Fileni Jesi-Pepsi Caserta 98-77
Carife FE-Fastweb Casale 85-82
Ignis Novara-Indesit Fab 87-92
BancoSardegna-Carmatic PT 79-80
Prima Veroli-Vanoli Soresina 72-77
Edimes PV-Coopsette RN 78-76
See complete boxscores at www.legaduebasket.it

*****************************************************
JAMAICA

Grant and FSC trounces Barry -by Leonard Whyte
Miami, FL (1-14-2008) - Andrei Grant and his Florida Southern College teammates came to Miami Shores on Saturday afternoon and whipped Barry University 79-49 in a Sunshine State Conference encounter despite a 19-point performance by guard Karega Tucker who is also of Jamaican decent. FSC buried a school record 16 three-pointers and held Barry to just 14 second half points. The victory gave FSC a 3-1 conference record and 12-4 overall.

Samuels sizzles in St. Benedict's victory -by Leonard Whyte
New York, NY (1-14-2008) - Samardo Samuels sat out the entire first quarter then entered the game with 7:43 left in the second quarter and delivered 15 points and 12 rebounds to lead St. Benedict's Prep to a 55-52 triumph over a tough Rice High School team in the NIKE Super Six Invitational tournament at Madison Square Gardens last night. Tied 49-49, Samuels hit a basket with 29.4 seconds left and was fouled. He converted the free throw to give St. Benedict's, USA Today's top-ranked high school basketball team, a 52-49 lead that they would not relinquish. Samuels was rewarded with the most valuable player (MVP) award and as a gesture of good sportsmanship, shared the award with teammate Tamir Jackson. The victory enabled St. Benedict's to bounce back from their shock defeat to unranked Academy of New Church last week and improved their record to 14-1. New Jersey teams won the rivalry over New York, taking the two of the three marquee games.

Tulsa falls in triple overtime -by Leonard Whyte
Orlando, FL (1-14-2008) - Center Jerome Jordan scored a career-high 17 points and pulled down 11 rebounds but his efforts went for naught as Tulsa fell 97-91 to the University of Central Florida in the team's first triple OT game in school history on Saturday night. Tulsa fells to 8-5 on the season and is 0-1 in Conference USA play.

Notre Dame victorious in AMC opener -by Leonard Whyte
Notre Dame, OH (1-14-2008) - Karim McFarlane joined four players in double figures as Notre Dame College won their American Mideast Conference (AMC) North Division opener on Saturday night with a 82-74 victory over Point Park College on the road.

SIC earns big win over Kaskaskia -by Leonard Whyte
Harrisburg, IL (1-14-2008) - Sophomore Andree Wilson led Southeastern Illinois College with 16 points as they scored a 77-72 victory over previously unbeaten Kaskaskia College at home Saturday night. SIC improved to 15-2 and 3-0 in the Great Rivers Athletic Conference (GRAC).

Cedarville bounces back with win over ODU -by Leonard Whyte
Cedarville, OH (1-14-2008) - NAIA Division II No. 16 Cedarville University overcame an early deficit to defeat Ohio Dominican University 82-70 in an American Mideast Conference (AMC) South Division contest last night. Ricardo Alliman was the best of the Jamaican trio, finishing with nine points and a team-high 10 rebounds. Cedarville is now 1-1 in conference play after losing their opener 83-54 to No. 7 Mount Vernon Nazarene last week.

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

A win for Zain in Cyprus -by Mohammed Malas
The 2nd game for Zain in the cyprot camp ended with a deserved win 85-76 over AEK Larancas today.

Sam Daghlas (197-G-79, college: Midwestern St.) starred in smart assists, Nate Johnson in scoring and Moussa Basheer in good performance under the baskets while the american import of AEK Isaac Burton did well and made some good plays.

The jordanian team will play their last game tomorrow against Apollon before going back to Amman to leave to Dubai on Thursday for Dubai International Tournament (18-26 Jan).

*****************************************************
KOSOVO

Cadet's League Spring Season schedule - Group A -by Edona Shabani
WEEK VIII- 01/02.03.2008.

'KALAJA' - 'TUSHI&GRUDA'

'BASHKIMI' - 'RC COLA DRITA'

'ABS VËLLAZNIMI' - 'YLLI'

Rests: 'PEJA AG'

WEEK IX 08/09.03.2008.

'PEJA AG' - 'KALAJA'

'ABS VËLLAZNIMI' - 'RC COLA DRITA'

'BASHKIMI' - 'TUSHI&GRUDA'

Rests: 'YLLI'

WEEK X 15/16.03.2008.

'KALAJA' - 'BASHKIMI'

'TUSHI&GRUDA' - 'ABS VËLLAZNIMI'

'YLLI' - 'PEJA AG'

Rests: 'RC COLA DRITA'

WEEK XI 22/23.03.2008.

'YLLI' - 'KALAJA'

'PEJA AG' - 'RC COLA DRITA'

'ABS VËLLAZNIMI' - 'BASHKIMI'

Rests: 'TUSHI&GRUDA'

WEEK XII 29/30.03.2008.

'KALAJA' - 'ABS VËLLAZNIMI'

'TUSHI&DRUDA' - 'PEJA AG'

'RC COLA DRITA' - 'YLLI'

Rests: 'BASHKIMI'

WEEK XIII 05/06.04.2008.

'RC COLA DRITA' - 'KALAJA'

'YLLI' - 'TUSHI&GRUDA'

'PEJA AG' - 'BASHKIMI'

Rests: 'ABS VËLLAZNIMI'

WEEK XIV- 12/13.04.2008.

'ABS VËLLAZNIMI' - 'PEJA AG'

'BASHKIMI' - 'YLLI'

'TUSHI&GRUDA' - 'RC COLA DRITA'

Rests: 'KALAJA'

PLEY OFF:

Quarterfinals: 19/20.04

Semifinals: 23/24,26/27 and April 30/ May 1st 2008

Finales: 3 /4 ,7/8 and 10/11 May (if only one final match will be played on 7/8 May 2008)

Source: www.basketbolli.com

Junior's League Spring Season Schedule - Group A -by Edona Shabani
WEEK VI 15/16.03.2008.

'BASHKIMI' -'YLLI'

'KASTRIOTI' - 'ISTOGU'

'E K I' - 'PEJA'

WEEK VII 22/23.03.2008.

'E K I' - 'KASTRIOTI'

'PEJA - 'YLLI'

'BASHKIMI' - 'ISTOGU'

WEEK VIII 29/30.03.2008.

'ISTOGU' - 'PEJA'

'YLLI' - 'E K I'

'KASTRIOTI' - 'BASHKIMI'

WEEK IX 5/6.04.2008

'E K I' - 'ISTOGU'

'PEJA' - 'BASHKIMI'

'YLLI' - 'KASTRIOTI'

WEEK X 12/13.04.2008

'KASTRIOTI' - 'PEJA'

'BASHKIMI' - 'E K I'

'ISTOGU' - 'YLLI'

PLAY OFF:

Quarterfinals: 19/20.04.2008

Semifinals: 23/24,26/27 and April 30 /May 1st 2008

Finalet:3 /4 ,7/8 and 10/11 May (if only one final match will be played on 7/8 May 2008).


Source: www.basketbolli.com

Pioneer's League "Stobi Flips" spring season schedule - Group B -by Edona Shabani
PIONEER'S LEAGUE 'STOBI FLIPS' SPRING SEASON SCHEDULE - GROUP B

WEEK VIII 01/02.03.2008.

'VERTIKALI' - 'PRISHTINA PROBASKET'

'EUROBASKET' - 'VUSHTRIA BASKET'

'TREPCA' - 'MEGABASKET'

Rests: 'BONUSI'

WEEK IX- 08/09.03.2008.

'TREPCA' - 'VERTIKALI'

'MEGABASKET' - 'BONUSI'

'VUSHTRIA BASKET' - 'PRISHTINA PROBASKET'

Rests: 'EUROBASKET'

WEEK X 15/16.03.2008.

'VERTIKALI' - 'VUSHTRIA BASKET'

'EUROBASKET' - 'MEGABASKET'

'BONUSI' - 'TREPCA'

Rests: 'PRISHTOMA PROBASKET'

WEEK XI 22/23.03.2008.

'BONUSI' - 'VERTIKALI'

'TREPCA' - 'EUROBASKET'

'MEGABASKET' - 'PRISHTINA PROBASKET'

Rests: 'VUSHTRIA BASKET'

WEEK XII 29/30.03.2008.

'VUSHTRIA BASKET' - 'MEGABASKET'

'PRISHTINA PROBASKET' - 'TREPCA'

'EUROBASKET' - 'BONUSI'

Rests: 'VERTIKALI'

WEEK XIII 05/06.04.2008.

'EUROBASKET' - 'VERTIKALI'

'BONUSI' - 'PRISHTINA PROBASKET'

'TREPCA' - 'VUSHTRIA BASKET'

Rests: 'MEGABASKET'

WEEK XIV 12/13.04.2008.

'VERTIKALI' - 'MEGABASKET'

'VUSHTRIA BASKET' - 'BONUSI'

'PRISHTINA PROBASKET' - 'EUROBASKET'

Rests: 'TREPCA'

PLEY OFF:

Quarterfinals : 19/20.04.2008

Semifinals: 23/24,26/27 and 30 April/1 May 2008

Finals: 3 /4 ,7/8 and 10/11 May (if only one final match will be played on 7/8 May 2008).


Source: www.basketbolli.com

Pioneer's League "Stobi Flips" spring season schedule - Group A -by Edona Shabani
WEEK VIII 01/02.03.2008.

'NBA 23' - 'YLLI'

'BASHKIMI' - 'RC COLA DRITA'

'ABS VËLLAZNIMI' - 'KALAJA

'PEJA AG' - 'SHB 12'

WEEK IX- 08/09.03.2008.

'ABS VËLLAZNIMI' - 'RC COLA DRITA'

'BASHKIMI' - 'NBA 23'

'YLLI' - 'PEJA AG'

'KALAJA' - 'SHB 12'

WEEK X 15/16. 03.2008.

'PEJA AG' - 'BASHKIMI'

'NBA 23' - 'ABS VËLLAZNIMI'

'RC COLA DRITA' - 'KALAJA'

'SHB 12' - 'YLLI'

WEEK XI 22/23.03. 2008.

'KALAJA' - 'NBA 23'

'ABS VËLLAZNIMI' - 'PEJA AG'

'BASHKIMI' - 'YLLI'

'SHB 12' - 'RC COLA DRITA'

WEEK XII 29/30.03.2008.

'YLLI' - 'ABS VËLLAZNIMI'

'PEJA AG' - 'KALAJA'

'NBA 23' - 'RC COLA DRITA'

'SHB 12' - 'BASHKIMI'

WEEK XIII 05/06.04.2008.

'RC COLA DRITA' - 'PEJA AG'

'KALAJA' - 'YLLI'

'ABS VËLLAZNIMI' - 'BASHKIMI'

'NBA 23' - 'SHB 12'

WEEK XIV 12/13.04.2008.

'BASHKIMI' - 'KALAJA

'YLLI' - 'RC COLA DRITA'

'PEJA AG' - 'NBA 23'

'SHB 12' - 'ABS VËLLAZNIMI'

Source: www.basketbolli.com

Cadet's League Spring Season schedule - Group B -by Edona Shabani
WEEK VIII 01/02.03.2008.

'VUSHTRIA BASKET' - 'MITROVICA'

'EUROBASKET' - 'BONUSI'

'PRISHTINA PROBASKET' - 'VERTIKALI'

'TREPCA' - 'SIGAL PRISHTINA'

WEEK IX- 08/09.03. 2008.

'SIGAL PRISHTINA' - 'VUSTRIA BASKET'

'VERTIKALI' - 'TREPCA'

'BONUSI' - 'PRISHTINA PROBASKET'

'MITROVICA' - 'EUROBASKET'

WEEK X 15/16.03.2008.

'VUSHTRIA BASKET' - 'VERTIKALI'

'BONUSI' - 'SIGAL PRISHTINA'

'MITROVICA' - 'TREPCA'

'EUROBASKET' - 'PRISHTINA PROBASKET'

WEEK XI 22/23.03.2008.

'PRISHTINA PROPBASKET' - 'VUSHTRIA BASKET'

'TREPCA' - 'EUROBASKET'

'SIGAL PRISHTINA' - 'MITROVICA'

'VERTIKALI' - 'BONUSI'

WEEK XII 29/30.03. 2008.

'BONUSI' - 'VUSTRIA BASKET'

'MITROVICA' - 'VERTIKALI'

'EUROBASKET' - 'SIGAL PRISHTINA'

'PRISHTINA PROBASKET' - 'TREPCA'

WEEK XIII 05/06.04.2008.

'VUSHTRIA BASKET' - 'EUROBASKET'

'PRISHTINA PROBASKET' - 'MITROVICA'

'TREPCA' - 'BONUSI2

'SIGAL PRISHTINA' - 'VERTIKALI'

WEEK XIV 12/13.04.2008.

'VUSHTRIA BASKET' - 'TREPCA'

'SIGAL PRISHTINA' - 'PRISHTINA PROBASKET'

'VERTIKALI' - 'EUROBASKET'

'BONUSI' - 'MITROVICA'

PLAY OFF:

Quarterfinals 19/20.04

Semifinals: 23/24,26/27 and April 30 /May 1st 2008

Finals :3 /4 ,7/8 and 10/11 May (if only one final match will be played on 7/8 May 2008)

Source: www.basketbolli.com

Young Categories Play - off -by Edona Shabani
QUARTERFINALS 19/20 ARIL 2008

A 1 - B 4 = C 1

A 2 - B 3 = C 2

B 1 - A 4 = D 1

B 2 - A 3 = D 2

SEMIFINALS 23/24,26/27 and 30 April/1 May 2008

C 1 - D 2 = Winner 1

D 1 - C 2 = Winner II

In quarterfinals will be played only one game and that will be in the home court of the best team ranked in the Groups.

In Semifinals will be played until two winning games. The first match will be played in the home court of the best team ranked in the groups.

FINALS

3 /4, 7/8 and 10/11 May (if only one final match will be played on 7/8 May 2008)

The Final match will be played until two wining games. The first match will be played in the home court of the best ranked team. If both finalists have same ranking in the groups there will be only one final match in a neutral court.

Competition Commissary
Mithat Belegu

Source: www.basketbolli.com

Junior's League Spring Season Schedule - Group B -by Edona Shabani
WEEK VIII- 01/02.03.2008.

'VUSHTRIA BASKET' - 'VERTIKALI'

'SIGAL PRISHTINA' - 'RC COLA DRITA'

'PRISHTINA PROBASKET' - 'TREPCA'

Rests: 'KOSOVA'

WEEK IX 08/09.03.2008.

'TREPCA' - 'SIGAL PRISHTINA'

'RC COLA DRITA' - 'VUSHTRIA BASKET'

'VERTIKALI' - 'KOSOVA'

Rests: 'PRISHTINA PROBASKET'

WEEK X 15/16. MARS 2008.

'KOSOVA' - 'RC COLA DRITA'

'VUSHTRIA BASKET' - 'TREPCA'

'SIGAL PRISHTINA' - 'PRISHTINA PROBASKET'

Rests. 'VERTIKALI'

WEEK XI 22/23.03.2008.

'PRISHTINA PROBASKET' - 'VUSHTRIA BASKET'

'TREPCA' - 'KOSOVA'

'RC COLA DRITA' - 'VERTIKALI'

Rests: 'SIGAL PRISHTINA'

WEEK XII 29/30.03.2008.

'VERTIKALI' - 'TREPCA'

'KOSOVA' - 'PRISHTINA PROBASKET'

'VUSHTRIA BASKET' - 'SIGAL PRISHTINA'

Rests: 'RC COLA DRITA'

WEEK XIII 05/06.04.2008.

'SIGAL PRISHTINA' - 'KOSOVA'

'PRISHTINA PROBASKET' - 'VERTIKALI'

'TREPCA' - 'RC COLA DRITA'

Rests: 'VUSHTRIA BASKET'

WEEK XIV 12/13.04.2008.

'RC COLA DRITA' - 'PRISHTINA PROBASKET'

'VERTIKALI' - 'SIGAL PRISHTINA'

'KOSOVA' - 'VUSHTRIA BASKET'

Rests: 'TREPCA'

PLAY OFF:

Quarterfinals: 19/20.04

Semifinals: 23/24,26/27 and April 30 /May 1st 2008

Finalet:3 /4 ,7/8 and 10/11 May (if only one final match will be played on 7/8 May 2008)

Source: www.basketbolli.com

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

Results of Day 2 in the Lebanese League -by Asia-Basket Lebanon
In the first game Antranik had to face Anibal in the freezing cold in Zahle , Antranik continued its good start by wining its first win on the score of 87-74.
In the second game Riyadi didn't face any problem passing through Feytourn on the score of 111-66.
In the Third game , in Tripoli Moutahed managed to record its first win after beating Blue Stars last year's runner up after a big game on the score of
In the last game of the Round Champville hosted Sagesse , the game was a full of intensity and excitement till the end , the game went to overtime after a three point shot made by Sabah Khouri on the buzzer , in the over time Sagesse continued its good rhythm to secure the win.

Anibal - Antranik : 74-87
Best Scorers:
Anibal: Kevin Sowell (29pts)
Antranik: Marcus Brown (26pts)

Q1:18-18 Q2:22-30 Q3:14-21 Q4:20-18


Riyadi - Feytroun : 111-66
Best Scorers:
Riyadi: Mazen Mneimneh(25pts)
Feytroun: Anthony Wilson (25pts)

Q1:32-7 Q2:33-12 Q3:23-23 Q4:23-24

Moutahed - Blue Stars : 86-70
Best Scorers:
Moutahed: Darren Kelly(29pts)
Blue Stars: Jihad Murr , Jean Abed El Nour (16pts)

Q1:22-14 Q2:22-19 Q3:13-23 Q4:29-14


Champville - Sagesse : 73-78 OT
Best Scorers:
Champville:Ghaleb Rida(21pts)
Sagesse: Sabah Khouri (22pts)

Q1:14-14 Q2:18-15 Q3:24-20 Q4: 10-17 OT :7-12

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

Zalgiris Kaunas gets upset in LKL -by Eurobasket News

A real sensation brought last weekend in LKL. One of the favorite Zalgiris Kaunas lost to Siauliai 70:76 on a road. Donatas Zavackas (203-F-80, college: Pittsburgh) shone with 26 points and 11 rebounds to help Siauliai jump to 6-4 record. Zalgiris did control some parts of the game and had 4 points advantage at the half. Siauliai replied with 27-18 run and never looked behind after. Marius Prekevicius (196-F-84, agency: Interperformances, college: S.Florida) scored 12, while Antonio Grant had 11. Paulius Jankunas (204-F-84, agency: Interperformances) netted 18 points for Zalgiris.

Lietuvos Rytas overcame Panevezys 79:94 away from home. Matt Nielsen top-scored for the winners with 27 points. Kenan Bajramovic and Arturas Jomantas added 13 each. Lietuvos Rytas remains on top with 10-0 record. Neptunas Klaipeda won at home over Suduva 94:89 as Marius Runkauskas (189-G-86) netted 23 points. Atletas Kaunas grabbed a road victory from Sakalai 83:88 as Gintautas Vileta posted 21 points. Alytus also celebrated the win on a road beating Nevezis 90:93. Nerijus Varnelis (200-F-78) was unstoppable with 35 points for the winners.

The next games are scheduled on January 25th. Siauliai will have a chance to upset another titan Rytas on January 26th.



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

Etzella loses two in a row -by Eurobasket News
Previously undefeated Etzella stalled in the new year. They opened the calendar year with a 79:81 loss to Sparta in a key matchup of the regular season. Sparta dominated for the major part of the game and entered the fourth period with a 14-point cushion. Etzella performed a desperate surge for success late in the game and were close of turning the game upside down but Sparta survived in crunch time and handed the first defeat to Etzella. Marcus Kennedy (193-F-84, college: Montevallo) provided 27 points and 11 boards in a losing case for Etzella. Larrie Smith (195-F-75, college: Tennessee Tech) shone for Sparta with 35 points and 12 boards. The losing skid continued for Etzella last week as they were held off by Residence 72:73 away from home. Marcus Kennedy produced 20 points for Etzella but it did not prevent them from losing the second game in the championship. Will Brand (196-F-80, agency: Scorers 1st Sportmanagement, college: Albany) paced the hosts with 28 points and 9 rebounds.
Meanwhile Sparta used some shaky Etzella's form to cut the distance between the teams. The defending DBBL champs celebrated a 91:74 victory over Contern to improve to 12-4 record just two wins shy of Etzella. Larrie Smith came up with another sizzling performance for Sparta. He notched 31 points and collected 12 boards to fuel Sparta. Eric Jeitz (190-G-86) drilled 28 points for Contern as they fell to 7-9 record.
Musel Pikes retained the third spot with an 82:45 blow out of Amicale. This win lifted them to 10-6 record. Guy Schmit (185-G-80) tallied 30 points, while Laurent Schwartz (177-G-89) knocked down 20 points for Musel Pikes. Ben Perkins (200-F-79, college: Mc Neese St.) managed 14 points and 12 boards in a loss. Amicale were woeful from the field shooting just 2/23 from downtown and 14/39 from close range. They alsio committed 30 turnovers.

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

Soles Shoot for 8th Straight in LOA -by Justin Brink
The LNBP will be front and center this evening in Latin America and beyond as the Soles de Mexicali of Mexicali and the Halcones UV Xalapa of Xalapa meet in the FIBA League of the Americas which is pitting the best teams in Latin America against each one another to see which team and essentially which league in the Americas reigns supreme.