EUROBASKET NEWS REPORT - 1/22/2008

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Men News

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ABA

Millrats Overcome Montreal -by Jay
Montreal, Canada: The Manchester Millrats overcame the Montreal Royal on the road, for a hard fought 125-123 win.
The Millrats' Rob Sanders sat out tonight's game with sore knees, further complicating Manchester's personnel woes.
But the remaining eight players dug down and claimed a 64-60 halftime lead. The Royal then came out of halftime blazing, scoring 21 points in the first five minutes to establish an 85-73 lead.
Then the Millrats, behind scrappy defense and tough buckets by Anthony Anderson (5'11''-G-81, college: Massachusetts) and others, managed to tie the score at 98-98. Cordell Jeanty's three pointer at the third quarter buzzer gave Montreal a 101-98 lead.
In the fourth, Manchester rallied again from down double figures to go ahead 124-123 on new addition Eric Downie's tough jumper in traffic with 16 seconds left. Manchester then stole the ball and Al Stewart (5'10''-G-83, agency: Rice and Rice, college: Drake) hit one free throw to put his team ahead two. Another two steals in a mad flurry ended the Royal's chance for another shot.
Anthony Anderson led the Millrats with 27 points. Al Stewart scored 23 pointd, Charles Mason 22, PJ Young added 20. Mannix Auriantal had 27 for Montreal.
The win improves Manchester to 15-9 on the season. They take their new two game win streak to Boston next week for a road game on the 26th, and the Boston returns the favor, coming to New Hampshire on Sunday the 27th at 4:35 pm.

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ARGENTINA

Gabriel Fernandez to Boca Jrs. -by Facundo Iatzky
Gabriel Fernandez (204-C-76) is the new player of Boca Juniors. Gaby left Varese of Italian league (7.2 pts 4.8 rebs in 17 games) and will join Boca this week. Fernandez will be the third player of the 2004 argentinian olyimpic 'golden' team with his teammate Leo Gutierrez and Ale Montechia who will return to play the next month.

Estudaintes bahia blanca signed Marcelo Richotti as new head coach. He willl replace Guillermo Lopez. Richotti was in Asociacion Espanola recently.

Central entrerriano released Tomas Aguilera (10 pts 5.8 reb in 4 games) who was not what the coach expected. His replacement is center Carlos Wheeler (203-F/C-78, college: Campbellsville)


TNA Update -by Facundo Iatzky

Last Transactions:
Union sunchales released Bobby Madison (11.6 pts 6.3 reb 1.4 st in 7 games) and signed veteran Todd Williams (193-G-69, college: Sacred Heart)
Gimnasia La plata released Troy Watson (1.5 pts 3.5 reb in 2 games) and inked Jared Johnson (201-F-80, college: Manhattan)
Guido Garnica (8.7 pts 1.5 reb) left Alianza Olimpia Catamarca. He will be replaces by Enrique Horacio Muruaga (185-G-84)
Jose Podskoc is the new head coach of Asociacion Espanola. Espanola signed Quincy Alexander (202-F-73, college: Lamar) as their foreigner
Pedro Echague-Saladillo released Field Williams (13.3 pts 2.4 reb) then signed 'Pop' Thornton (201-F-74, college: W.Kentucky) . They also signed Cristian Arias
San Martin Corrientes agreed terms with Alejandro Coronel (190-G-73). Alejandro will replace Diego Checenelli
Argentino Junin released Bruno Romano (6.2 pts 2.1 reb) and Jared Johnson (16 pts 7.1 reb) and signed Daryl Rufus (207-C-82, college: Fayetteville St.). Hector Santini is the new head coach

Second stage:
It will start the next weekend and will be divided in two groups: TNA1 (the best 8 teams of first stage) and TNA2 (worst 8)

Schedule: http://www.a-d-c.com.ar/fixture_tna10708f2.htm

http://www.a-d-c.com.ar/fixture_tna20708f2.htm


Standings of first stage:

http://www.a-d-c.com.ar/TABLA_tna_1F0708.html



Liga A round 14 -by Facundo Iatzky
*The round will be completed with the game Regatas-Penarol

Best 5:
Sebastian Ginobili (190-G-72, agency: Interperformances) of libertad 27 pts 2 reb 4 as
Roland Lamont (193-G-78, college: LSU) of belgrano 27 pts 10 reb 2 as
Antwon Hall (193-G-74, agency: Naiditch Entertainment, college: Life) of quilmes 32 pts 4 reb 5 as
Byron Johnson (201-F/C-80, college: Belm.Abbey) of independiente 25 pts 7 reb 2 as
Djibril Kante (201-C-80, college: Indiana St.) of el nacional 30 pts 13 reb 2 bl

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AUSTRIA

Round 21 recap -by Stefan Heinrich
Oberwart Gunners - Worthersee Piraten 117:75
The team from Oberwart had an easy game against the young team of Worthersee. The Gunners had a great shooting night, making almost 65 % from 3 point range (20/31)

Scorer. Jay Youngblood (196-G-84, agency: Strategic Sports, college: Kent St.) 20, Artner 18, Boone 17 ; Selmir Husanovic (200-F-78) 20, Gavran, Schaal and Buggelsheim each 14

WBC Wels - Furstenfeld Panthers 75:76
Furstenfeld celebrated an important victory in Wels. The game was played on a very high level and the Panthers took the lead due to a 3 pointer of Anthony Shavies (191-G-83, college: Missouri St.), but Wels had the last offense. Colwell blocked the lay-up of Archibald and Kyle Wilson (206-F-83, agency: Warren Sports, college: Wichita St.) missed the last shot of the game.

Scorer: Kyle Wilson 18, Palmer 17, Archibald and Davis each 10 ; Samo Grum (194-G/F-79, agency: VTBM/SRBM) 25, Goljovic 20, Shavies 14

Klosterneuburg Dukes - Gmunden Swans 74:79
The Dukes had a great first half and they led after 20 minutes, but Gmunden came back and with a 20:27 in the last quarter they secured the victory. The key player of this game was one more time Deteri Deteri Mayes (189-G-74, agency: Court Side, college: Murray St.), who scored 33 points.

Scorer: Marquis Wright (203-F/C-80, college: Alabama) 18, Diwald and Watson each 17 ; Deteri Mayes 33, Hutter 14, KJohnson 13

BasketClubs Vienna - UBC St. Polten 70:94
St. Polten had an easy game and with this victory they keep the 8 spot. If they win their game in the last round they will be on the 8th spot and play in the Hauptrunde 1.

Scorer: Matthias Dockner (204-F/C-84)r 28, Rajkovic 21, Pinterits 9 ; Thomas Schreiner (195-G-87) 26, Kohlmaier 20, Kerschbaummayr 16

UBSC Graz - Gussing Knights 66:84
Gussing led the whole game and they deserved the win due to a great start in the game. They need to win in the last round and hope that St. Polten loses to Wels to finish 8th and play in the Hauptrunde 1.

Scorer: Mike Dale (196-G-84, college: S.Illinois) 25, Pigford 18, Rhodes 15+13 reb ; Marqus Ledoux (203-F-80, college: Tulsa) 25, Calvin 22, Miletic 21+10 ass

Kapfenberg Bulls - Traiskirchen Lions 96:104
Traiskirchen was the first team which was able to win a game in Kapfenberg. After 3 quarters the Bulls led already by 11 points, but an oustanding 35:16 in favor of the Lions decided the game.

Scorer: Jason Forrestal (204-F-69, college: Benedictine (IL)) 22, Zezelnik 19, Hall 17 ; Joey Vickery (180-G-67, college: Brandon) 25, Lamesic 19, Paliashchuk 16

Moric again a Gunner -by Stefan Heinrich
Marko Moric (207-F-81, agency: World Sport Agency) will be the new old face in Oberwart. Moric returns to Oberwart where he already played during the 2005/06 season. He started this season with BasketClubs Vienna and moved after a couple of games to Hungary - playing for Kormend. Now he returned to the Gunners and manager Andreas Leitner thinks that he will be a part of the team quickly as he already knows the city and the biggest part of the team as well. Moric on the other side is happy about his return and he hopes to help the Gunners being one of the top teams in the Austrian league.

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BELGIUM

Oostende Wins Rematch -by Peter Buyse

The rematch between Oostende and Bologna took place this past saturday and Oostende did what it had to do.
This time around no controversy and no close game in the final seconds with a chance for the visitors to steal the win.
Oostende took an early lead in the 1stQ which ended 20-12. Bologna did get closer at the half 43-38.
Bologna tied the game in the 3rd quarter at 45-45 and minutes later at 58-58 but Oostende took the lead back with a
3pointer by McCray to finish the 3rd quarter. The game stayed close throughout the final quarter at first with Oostende
taking the a 7 pt lead but Bologna countered and close the gap to 1 pt with some 4 minutes left to play. Baskets by Davis,
Green and Ovcina gave Oostende the lead for good at 74-67. Elvir Ovcina then hit a 3 and blocked a shot on the other side
to seal the deal for Oostende who now play Red Star on Tuesday.

Liege Transfer News -by Peter Buyse
Maybe fourth time the charm for Ryan Moss (200-F/C-74, college: UALR) and Liege who was signed for the rest of the season. Moss already played part of 6 seasons in Liege
and now returns for the 4th time. The past season, his last till now for Liege he averaged 10.3 ppg and 5.8 rpg.

Division II Results - Regular Season (Round 16) -by Bertrand Larsimont

BC Ninane vs. De West Hoek Zwevezele 80-71
Ninane: Lhote 7; A. Delhaes 3; Vanbergen 4; Offermann 17; R. Delhaes 3; Delsaute 25; Hawley 15; Lebecque 6.
Zwevezele: Tandt 2; Bourdeaux 15; Lombart 11; Desloovere 12; Bobb 14; Hamers 3; Van Hulle 12; Myleville 2.

Kangoeroes Willebroek vs. CEP Fleurus 63-71
On CEP's side, Stephen Tison (176-G-84) got injured and Sebastien Buja (212-C-77), ill, had not trained last week.
Former CEP coach Paul Vervaeck, now replacing Francois Huysmans in Willebroek after having started the season in Luxemburg, as well as Kangoeroes' newcomers Ilja Bocevski (of Macedonian origin) and Jean-Boni Coulanges (of France) could not avoid a loss.
Quarter by quarter score evolution: 19-15, 32-36, 51-52 and 63-71.
Kangoeroes: Roelandts 18; Leclercqs 7; Casteels 10; Lauwerijs 10; Bocevski 8; Coulanges 5; De Wachter 5.
Fleurus: Vanesse 13; Tsasa 2; Jadin 12; Moris 18; Rozewicz 4; Pourtoit 12; Penninck 5; Semijejero 6.

Bent Schoenen Waregem vs. Jaga Radiators Hasselt 85-80
Quarter by quarter score evolution: 23-20, 44-43, 53-62 and 85-80.
Waregem: Van Vooren 2; Steinbach 14; Cleymans 25; Bwatu 16; Dewilde 13; Verdickt 7; Vermeiren 8.
Hasselt: Geysen 7; Hendrix 8; Sterk 6; Van Poelgeest 20; Vanhove 20; Bynens 1; Maes 6; Cox 12.

Falco Ghent vs. BBC Boom 58-75
Score at the half: 32-24
Falco: Dhondt 3; Vanderkimpen 2; T. Foucart 14; De Schepper 9; J. Van de Vondel 6; Selhorst 8; Seghers 2; Brysse 3; Huyghe 11.
Boom: --

Xenia Tours Sint-Truiden vs. Power Liefmans Wevelgem 71-74
Tom Van de Keere (201-G/F-78, college: Fairleigh Dickinson) was excellent in offense (29 points) and very present at the rebound (15 boards).
Quarter by quarter score evolution: 13-12, 23-36, 39-56 and 71-74.
Sint-Truiden: Van Hoecke 6; Baert 5; Souverijns 17; Cuppens 17; Pipeleers 8; Bullen 7; Willegems 11.
Wevelgem: Vandenberghe 4; Van de Keere 29; Robeyst 5; S. Naudts 12; Jouret 1; Lebon 10; Guillemyn 3; Flanders 10.

Sint-Jan Antwerp vs. Royal Alsec Nivelles 93-101 (after two OTs)
James Wade (180-G-75, college: Kennesaw St.), husband of the French women national team guard Edwige Lawson, has signed a contract with Nivelles (until the end of the season).
Score at the half: 35-35.
Score after regular time: 77-77.
Score at the end of the first OT: 87-87.
Sint-Jan: Van Schil 12; T. Van de Vondel 23; Lemaire 21; Gorremans 10; Verrept 13; Ceyssens 14.
Nivelles: Wade 2; Kalonji 15; Martin 9; Karavokyros 10; Lait 5; Mugogwa 26; Muylaert 17; O'Connor 17.

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BOSNIA

Tomorrow match of the season for KK Bosna -by Nedzad Kladusak

Tomorrow will be the most important match for KK Bosna and at its end Bosna will either record its greatest international sucess after the win of the european club championship 20years ago.
In the statements of the bosnian players you can hear both pride but also bitterness not having converted great performances against Turk Telekom, Siauliai and particularly Alba Berlin into brilliant victories.
Would it be tragic if they become the victims of their bravery in Berlin? If they would have accepted the loss of one point in Berlin things would be much easier for Bosna but they are great sportsmen and fight until the bitter end.
Does Bosna have a chance tomorrow? Kyle Hill has been released very shortly after the match in Berlin and despite his problems to integrate his personal goals in the team he would have been an important player. It will be the main problem for Bosna to control Julius Jenkins and Bobby Jackson who won the first match for Alba. However Bryan Bailey showed that he can lead a team and contribute when it is most needed. Muhamed Pasalic still lacks the experience especially in defensive tasks but Alba will have to take his precise long range shots into account. Sead Sehovic showed as well that he can bring both shooting and tough defense on the floor when the hard-working marksman Goran Ikonic will need a break.
Greer will get another chance to show why he has been one of the best players in the NBDL last year. Dijon Thompson will be his counterpart and it will largely depend on him whether Bosna will knock out Alba.
Edin Bavcic (210-F/C-84, agency: Beo Basket) is the leader of the team and some fans are pronouncing his name when they talk about their hopes and dissapointment. If he gets in the «zone» he is instoppable burying shots from somewhere behind the horizont or slamming on even taller boys than Berlins tower Femerling. The return of 217cm - Emir Zimic will largely help bosnian warriors Lance «Guza» Williams and Dzenan Rahimic to get the air superiority and intimidate the lightning-quick guards of Alba Berlin.
One thing is sure it will be a great fight and the 7000 visitors will turn the Mirza Delibasic Arena into an inferno.

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BRAZIL

Spanish coach Monsalve will coach Team Brazil -by Gianni Pascucci
The Brazilian Basketball Confederation (CBB) President, Mr.Gerasime Bozikis announced the hiring of Spanish veteran Juan Manuel 'Moncho' Monsalve as the new Head Coach of Brazil Senior National Team. Monsalve , 63, replaces Aluisio 'Lula' Ferreira, who ended his gold-green tenure with the bronze medal at the FIBA Americas Championship 2007 in Las Vegas. Bozikis stated to local media that the only score for Team Brazil is to qualify for the Olympic Games, to keep alive the winning tradition and the high international ranking of the Brazilian basketball. To say the truth, however, it won' t be an easy job for coach Monsalve. In fact, the Pre-Olympic Qualifying Tournment, scheduled for next July in Athens, Greece, is expected to be a very balanced and high level competition, and Team Brazil will face contenders like home team Greece, Croatia, Slovenia and Germany.

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CAMEROON

Adingono sees bright future for African hoops Part II -by Olusegun Ikuesan
Lazare Adingono is at the helm of one of international basketball's most promising teams, Cameroon.

The national side sure made believers out of everyone in Angola last year, when they marched all the way to the gold medal game at the FIBA Africa Championship before falling to the tournament hosts, the perennial powerhouse Angolans.

One of the rewards for Adingono, a former player in the NCAA with the Rhode Island Rams and now an assistant coach at Canisius College in Buffalo, New York, is that Cameroon will play at the FIBA Olympic Qualifying Tournament for Men from July 14-20 in Athens.

Adingono could end up matching wits with some of true greats in coaching like Jasmin Repesa of Croatia and Panagiotis Yannakis of Greece.

Here is Part II of Julio Chitunda's interview with the Cameroon coach Lazare Adingono.

The memory of that incredible run at the FIBA Africa Championship for anyone associated with sports in Cameroon won't go away anytime soon.

Lazare Adingono's men, many of them college players in America, won five straight games with a fast, high-flying style of hoops that made everyone sit up and take notice in Angola.

Cameroon, perhaps punished for their lack of experience, ultimately came unstuck in the title game where they fell to Angola 86-72. But they celebrated anyway. They had earned the right to play in July 2008 for one of three remaining places on offer for the Beijing Games.

Adingono's country had finished fourth in Africa 1974, but that paled in comparison to last summer.

'It was a special day in the history of my country,' Adingono said, 'and I think the commitment of everyone involved made it possible.'

How good was Cameroon? They didn't dethrone the kings Angola, but Adingono believes the wrong team won.

'I strongly believe that we were the best team of the AfroBasket (FIBA Africa Championship), but the best-prepared team won the tournament,' he said.

Senegal, Nigeria, Egypt or even Mali is frequently regarded as powerhouse of African Basketball, but they failed recently in Angola. Instead, it was Cameroon and minnows Cape Verde.

Adingono knows he and his country cannot rest on their laurels.

'All of those teams performed well at the AfroBasket,' he said. 'And I am sure they will be back in the future; ready to compete for the title.'

Adingono, after winning a scholarship to Rhode Island to play for the Rams, left the United States and competed professionally in Mexico.

A serious injury forced him to stop playing, but he did not leave basketball.

Instead, he pursued a coaching career, which he did at his alma mater, Rhode Island, as a graduate coach.

He moved on to Canisius, and then got the chance to lead his country at the FIBA Africa Championship.

'I welcomed the unique opportunity to lead my dear country to the AfroBasket,' he said, 'and I am grateful to all the people, especially the Cameroon Basketball Federation and the Ministry of Sports, who have placed their trust in me.'

One factor in the Cameroon success was that Adingono was able to communicate his ideas to his players.

His philosophy, in fact, applies to all aspects of life, and certainly to those who want to have a career in sport.

'In order to be successful in coaching, as player, or in life in general, I will simply advise him or her to have a tremendous work ethic, the passion, and enthusiasm to achieve success in that specific field,' he said.

It's a happy time for Adingono. Yes, he's worked hard and earned the opportunities to play and coach in the game, but he's smiling for another reason.
He sees a bright future for basketball in Africa.

'I believe basketball in Africa is on the rise with countries like Cameroon, Cape Verde and Angola,' he said.

'I think the future is bright for years to come and I am excited for all the young players that will take the African Continent to a different level in the future.'

Miles away from his native country, Adingono keeps an eye on what is going on there.

'It is refreshing to see the hard work that the federation is doing to help develop the sport of basketball back in Cameroon,' he said.

'The young, talented players at home are getting better.'

FIBA


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CBA

Rio Grande Valley signs Gordon Klaiber -by Eurobasket News
The Rio Grande Valley Silverados added Guyanese forward Gordon Klaiber (6'9''-F/C-83, college: Fairleigh Dickinson) to their roster. The Silverados decided to make the move after forward Najeeb Echols (6'7''-F-83, college: Illinois St.) was injured and shifted to the injured reserve. Gordon Klaiber already played in the CBA together with the Albany Patroons in 2006-2007 season. He averaged 7.9 points and 3.9 boards then. Lately he signed with the Asociacion Espanola in the Argentinean TNA but was released after a month. The 24-year-old forward had also stints with the Brooklyn Kings from the USBL after graduating from Fairleigh Dickinson.
Atlanta Krunk decided to release Terry James Smith-Harris (6'4''-G-78, college: Chicago St.) and Chris Anderson (6'8''-F-84, college: Wyoming). Terry James Smith-Harris spent two games with the Krunk scoring 7 points and pulling down 3 boards. Chris Anderson was on the roster for just one game and logged just 4 minutes.
The East Kentucky Miners decided to sign guard Mike Dean (6'2''-G-82, agency: Strategic Sports, college: Middle Tenn.St.). He played for the Rio Grande Valley Silverados in the current season. Mike Dean started the season in Mexico donning the uniform of local Mayas de Yucatan. The Middle Tennessee State graduate already played in the SEBL, WBA and D-League before joining the Miners. His season stats come up to 22.4 points, 2.4 boards in 19 games. The Miners also put guard Mike Crain (6'2''-G-84, college: Valdosta St.) on the injured reserve list.
The action continued yesterday with the Oklahoma Cavalry beating the Minot Skyrockets 114:98 at home. Curtis Haywood (6'6''-G-75, agency: Huss Sport Agency, college: Oklahoma City) was productive with 24 points for the Cavalry. Marvin Phillips (6'7''-F-83, college: Claflin) delivered 19 points and 13 boards for the hosts as they improved to 10-13 record for the season. Minot responded with 31 points from Ronnie Fields (6'4''-G-77, agency: Edge Sports). Ray Cunningham (6'7''-F-79, agency: Warren Sports, college: Murray St.) dropped 26 points in defeat and the Skyrockets fell 19-6 record in the second spot of the CBA ladder.

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CHAD

Bethel High basketball players David Baroum and Ali Djim commit to colleges -by Kristian Santiago
By Jason Jordan | jjordan@dailypress.com

Bethel High center David Baroum and forward Ali Djim committed to La Salle and Duquesne respectively on Monday.

'David wants to be a lawyer and he really liked their law school,' Bethel coach Craig Brehon said. 'He talked to the professors and students there and he liked the coaches. They want to make him the face of the program.

'The coaches at Duquesne really loved Ali's tenaciousness on the offensive and defensive glass. He's just a really hard worker, and his offensive skill has progressed a lot since he's been here.'

Djim, a 6-foot-8 power forward, and Baroum, a 6-9 center, along with Mbai Oliver, a 6-7 swingman, are three senior transfers at Bethel this season.

The trio originally hails from Chad, which is located in Central Africa.
They relocated to Ohio in May and ended up at Bethel in June.

Oliver committed to Clemson last week.

Both Baroum and Djim took unofficial visits to La Salle and Duquesne, and Baroum also visited Old Dominion.

Brehon said that he was surprised that Baroum and Djim didn't decide to attend the same school.

'I thought they would want to go to the same school because they've been friends for a while,' Brehon said. 'But all of them have sort of spread their wings in different directions. It will be good for them.'

College coaches began coming in to see the trio play in August, when Brehon began preseason workouts at Bethel.

All three plan to sign during the NCAA's early signing period, which begins on Nov. 14.

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CHINA

A PLANE RIDE WITH BAYI AND LIAONING!!!! -by Ogoh Odaudu
After banging and clawing at each other the night before,The Liaoning Tigers and the Bayi Rockets ended up being on the same flight to Dalian enroute Liaoning for their game 4 fixture.It was a different story at the airport while they waited to board the plane.Showing a great sense of camaraderie,they all mingled together,with a group made up of Li Nan,Qian Biang and Jinsong Zhang,ex Bayi player and now assistant coach playing cards while Mo Ke and Yang Ming chatted in a corner.Wang Zhizhi hung out with Li Xiaoxu.The referees from the game were also on board.Looking at the players laugh and joke around with each other,one would think they were headed for a friendly game and not a crucial game 4 of the CBA playoffs.It was difficult to believe they were at each others throats the night before.
The Bayi/Liaoning fixture has been an interesting one.All three games played were all won by one point.Liaoning are ahead 2-1 in the series and as both teams prepare to do battle tomorrow,luck is what they are going to need.

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EGYPT

Gezira lost from Mohram (iran) 90-95 in Dubai tournament -by Sherif Soliman
Gezira lost their 2nd game in Dubai last night. Gezira players was very close to beat Asian champion Mohram when they made a great start finishing the 2nd quarter 44-33.Mohram players started the 3rd quarter with full court pressure forcing Gezira to make selly turnovers and finishing the game by 5 points. Gezira will face tonight El hekma (leb) and they need to win to get a better chance in the quarter final .Gezira won over Itthad(syr) 80-75 in their 1st game.Ramy Gunady (184-G-81)

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FINLAND

KORISLIIGA: Honka back on own level -by Rauno Hurmalainen

Korisliiga, Round 26: Honka (Espoo) back on own level, Torpan Pojat (Helsinki) with five players on injured list struggling again. So, this evening's TV-game never
became a BIG contest. Honka won the rebounds 28-37, Honka was better in defence and was even shooting better from behind the arc (29% - 44%). The result
62-81 for Honka was then no surprise. 'This win has no big meaning. How many times has ToPo been in the play-offs during the seven years, I have been coaching
in Finland', wondered Head Coach Mihajlo Pavicevic (Honka) after the game.

Torpan Pojat - Honka 62-81 (29-40) (Iiro Tenngren 14, Tyson Patterson 13, Josh Gonner 10 - Jukka Matinen 20, Matt Williams 15/13, Petteri Koponen 15).



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FRANCE

Round 15 Player of the Week! "Antonio Graves" -by Sean Davis
Antonio Graves (190-G-85, college: Pittsburgh) of Pau-Orthez is France A league's 'Player of the
Week!' Graves led Pau to their first road victory of the season by
scoring 30pts and dishing out 5ast. He shot 12-18 from the field and
was a perfect 5 of 5 form the 3pt line. Sense Graves arrival
Pau-Orthez has been a completely different team winning 2 out of 3
games and averaging 85ppg. Graves is averaging 21.7ppg and 4.7apg in
3 games in the LNB.

Honorable Mention

T.J. Thompson (178-G-82, agency: SportsTalent, college: George Washington) of Le Havre and David Simon (208-C-82, college: IUPU-Ft.Wayne) of Dijon both had outstanding performances earning them Honorable Mention honors for Round 15 'Player of the Week.' T.J. Thompson played 40mins recording a double
double scoring 25pts and 14ast. in a comeback victory over JDA Dijon Bourgogne. David Simon was high scorer of the week in a losing effort against Le
Havre scoring 31pts shooting 14 of 18 from the field.

Ron Hale out for the season ! -by Maxime Lory
The american forward of Chorale de Roanne Basket, Ron Hale (203-F-77, college: Florida St.), sufferes from a rupture of a kneecap's tendon. He will have an operation tomorrow. Chorale de Roanne Basket will look for a new american forward to substitute him. Aaron Harper (201-G-81, agency: Strategic Sports, college: Mississippi) ? Why not !

Jason Straight leaves Gravelines. -by Maxime Lory
After a test which was no conclusive in Paris-Levallois, Jason Straight (180-G-83, college: Wyoming) was waives by BCM Gravelines Dunkerque Grand Littoral today where he was tested for 2 games. In 2 games, he scores in average 6,5p in 18 minutes. The BCM Gravelines Dunkerque Grand Littoral's staff has declare that he looks for a new PG.

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GERMANY

Regionalliga Notes -by Moritz Korff
North:
A couple of debuts took place in the North on game day 16 at the weekend. Jermaine Robinson (188-G-81, agency: Scorers 1st Sportmanagement, college: Cleveland St.) dropped 22 points in his first game for Lok Bernau to help his new team defeating Magdeburg in overtime (107:94). Bernaus big man Jason Boone (198-F/C-85, college: New York U.) led all scores with 24 points, Bennie Miller (183-G) added 22 for Magdeburg. The Itzehoe Eagles edged the Aschersleben Tigers (93:91), who fell back to a relegation spot, while Itzehoe celebrated its second win in a row. Ivan Jenkins (180-G-83, agency: ProSportsCareers, college: Lambuth) led the Eagles with 40 points, including seven threes and the game-winning shot. Eddie Jackson (183-G-84, agency: Weller Sports - Entertainment, college: Pittsburg St.) paced Aschersleben with 26 points.
Stacy Pearson-Taylor (198-F-83, college: Bemidji St.) who returned to SC Rist Wedel about one week ago posted a double-double (21 points, 10 rebounds) in a win over Rostock (92:75). Another new face in the league is David Knowles (183-G-84, college: Pomona-Pitzer). The Playmaker had joined MBC II coming from Wolfenbuettel, but couldn't prevent a loss in his debut for the Wolves (70:93 vs. Oldenburg), though sharing topscoring-honors with fellow country man Johnnie Gilbert (203-F-82, agency: Heinrich Sports, college: Oklahoma). Both had 18 points. UBC Hannover stabilized its runner up-position by defeating Central Hoops Berlin 90:71. Tim Haley (188-G-82, college: Chico St.) was impressive once again in Hannovers win, reaching 36 points when the Tigers got the 13th victory in the 14th encounter of the season.

West:
SVD 49 Dortmund has reached the top in the Regionalliga West. While the 49ers defeated BBV Hagen (92:82) - Gary Johnson (188-G-82, college: Cent.Florida) put in 32 points for Dortmund, Canadian Chris Wright (201-F) scored 26 for BBV - Schwelmer Baskets suffered the 4th loss of the season (83:87) and dropped to the second place. Keith Harris (196-G/F-85, agency: Profibasketball.de, college: Oklahoma Christian) led Schwelms attack in the loss (25 pts), while the winning NVV Lions hit 15 treys. Topscorer Brad Shove (183-G, college: St.Rose (NY)) nailed 4 of them and 27 points totally. Next Saturday the West-division will see the clash of #1 Dortmund and #2 Schwelm. Meanwhile, #3 Elephants Grevenbroich captured a big win on the road against Salzkotten (84:63). Matthias Wojdyla (199-F-80) finished the game with 18 points for the Elephants, Christoph Hackenesch (204-F/C-86) had 14 for the Benslips Baskets. The fans of BSV Wulfen saw an outstanding performance by Tim Thompson (185-G-81, college: N.Mexico Highlands) who scored 28 points in a 92:79 over Meckenheim. Sharpshooter Josh Mueller (180-G-82, college: S.Dakota) trilled in 5 trees for Meckenheim and totaled 31 points.

South-West:
ASC Theresianum Mainz edged VfB Giessen 91:89 at the weekend to stay the best team of the South-West-division. ASCs Anish Sharda (191-G-82, college: St.Mary) and Michael Comick (191-G, college: Staten Island) hit 4 trees apience. Sharda finished with 31 points totally, Comick had 23. For Giessen Toni Dirlic (192-G-79, college: Manchester) and Felix Rotaru (200-F-79) each scored 20 points. Also the Panthers Schwenningen kept the pace and defeated SG Heidelberg/Kirchheim 84:78 thanks to a great team-performance. Brandon Adair (196-F-85, college: Va.Wesleyan) led six Panthers in double figures with 16 points. On the bottom of the table DJK/MJC Trier handed Rastatt its 10th loss of the season (68:45) with John III Wilson (192-G-80) leading the score for Trier (13 pts), while Rastatts Thorsten Kustos (188-G-79) had 19. TSV Gruenberg captured an overtime-away-win (72:68) at TV Kostanz that had Brian Lang (191-G-81, college: S.Nevada CC) back on the roster after his knee-surgery. However, Konstanz was led by Chris Fantroy (201-F-82, college: Tex.A&M-Comm.) with 16 points, while Thomas Knetsch (F/C) hit a game-high of 22 points for TSV. A 40-points-performance of Mensah Sadikki Taylor (198-F-80, college: Gardner-Webb) carried TuS Treis-Karden in an easy 100:73-win over Lich II.

South-East:
#1 TG Renesas Landshut took on the Wuerzburg Baskets in front of 1200 fans and carried home the 14th win of the season (97:84) to remain on the top spot of the South East-division. Landshuts guards Justin Allen (183-G-83, agency: 7-Miracles Management, college: S.Utah) and Jon Simon (180-G-84, college: Colgate) were impressive with 26 and 21 points respectively. Wuerzburg-shooter Markus Hallgrimson (190-G-75, agency: Scorers 1st Sportmanagement, college: Montana St. - Billin) nailed 7 three-pointers and finished the game with 27 points, while veteran-center Mike Moten (203-C-71, college: Rhode Island) totaled a double-double (15 pts, 15 rbs) in his debut. The leagues' topscorer Stephen Cramer (188-G, college: Hope (MI)) shot 21/29 from the FT-line and had 44 points after 40 minutes played in an easy win (82:67) of his COOCOON Baskets Weiden against Jena. Meanwhile, FC Bayern Muenchen thrashed the Dresden Titans (122:69) and went 37:10 in the last quarter. Bayern placed seven players in double digits as Anton Kazarnovski (205-F/C-85, agency: Scorers 1st Sportmanagement) led the way with 22 points, while Konrad Tota (196-F-80, college: Dickinson St.) with 24 points and Eric Voisin (205-C, college: Hope (MI)) with 22 points were the only Titans to keep up with the Reds. Larry Johnson (191-G-79, college: Niagara) who had 29 points and Ali Thomas (188-G-79, college: USF) with 27 paced HSB Landsberg at home against the Dachau Spurs (100:96). Calvin Wooten (186-G-84, college: Oakland) produced 29 points for the visitors.

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GREECE

Pfizer All Star Game 2008 -by Serafim Karaiskakis
Few days left for the 16th Greek All Star Game which will be held in the city of Amaliadas in the first weekend(2-3) of February.

Everyone can vote the players and the coaches through the online system.Click here.

For the first time we have a new extra system in the votes, you can use sms from mobile phones.Click here.

About the history of the Greek All Star Games you can read here all the infos. Click here.

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HOLLAND

Rotterdam Challengers added Frank Young -by Fred Roggen
Rotterdam Challengers has contracted Frank Young (196-F-84, college: W.Virginia), the American signed a contract till the end of the season. Young is coming from Ludwigsburg (ger). The forward played in America for West Virginia University.

Luc van Houts ended his basketballcareer -by Fred Roggen
Luc van Houts ending with playing basketball at Upstairs Weert. The guard, now in his final-examination year wants to give priority to his study, van Houts thinks that he not succeed in combination with playing basketball in the eredivisie.

Mike Nahar ended career by direct -by Fred Roggen
Mike Nahar (211-C-71, agency: Court Side, college: Wright St.) have stopped playing at Aris-Friesland by direct. Last Saturday-night the center indicated after the game against Leiden that he ended his basketballcareer. Nahar could no longer motivate himself. Aris-Friesland will not attract a substitute for Nahar.

After his stay at Wright State, he played for several teams in Europe. His European career started in Portugal where he played for Queluz and Benfica, then he played for Aris and Iraklis Thessalonica in Greece , Montecatini (Italy), Dafni Athens (Greece), BC Oostende (Belgium), Bamberg (Germany), Panellinios (Greece) and again Bamberg.
After his return in the Netherlands, Nahar played one and a half season for Omniworld Almere. He played only three games for Aris-Friesland after the bankruptcy of Omniworld Almere.
He played 48 games for the Dutch National team.

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IBL

Reminder: IBL hosting two exposure camps in March -by Trask Frost
The International Basketball League has scheduled two separate exposure camps for players interested in earning a roster spot on an IBL team for the 2008 season. The first camp will take place on Friday, March 14, and Sunday, March 16 at the Genesis Center in Gary, Indiana. The second camp will be held at Woodburn High School, just south of Portland, Oregon on Saturday, March 22, and Sunday, March 23.

Each camp offers several guarantees for players who attend:
• Attendees will play in actual pre-season IBL games
• At least 8 IBL teams will be in attendance
• At least 5 agents will be in attendance

Additionally, each player will be given a thorough evaluation. Camp Directors and coaches will give each player feedback on whether that player's skills are sufficient to play in the American minor leagues, and/or whether that player can expect to earn a contract overseas.

Following the 2007 season, the IBL had over 100 players earn contracts with overseas teams. The IBL expects this number to grow to at least 125 players following the 2008 season.

2008 IBL Exposure Camp Information:

Camp 1
March 14 and 16
Genesis Center (1 Genesis Center Plaza, Gary, IN)
Camp begins at 9:30am on both dates

Camp 2
March 22 and 23
Woodburn High School (1785 N. Front Street, Woodburn, OR)
Camp begins at 9:30am on both dates.

The cost for each camp is $125. To learn more or register, contact Terrance Dickens at (503) 805-3311, or visit the ‘Tryouts' section of the IBL website at www.iblhoopsonline.com.

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ICELAND

Skallagrimur Added Miftari -by Jay
Icelandic Express League side U.M.F. Skallagrimur Borganes added one more foreign player about ten days ago. New player on the roster is Albanian NT forward Florian Miftari (204-G/F-83, agency: Global Sports Plaza). He started this season in MZT Skoplje (MKD) but was released in October '07.

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IRAN

Kamrani scores 36 as Mahram shoot down UAE & beat Jazeira -by Houman Bagheri
Tehran (Dubai Int'l Tournament) - Mehdi Kamrani poured in 36 points and Tony Madison added 17 Saturday as Mahram thrashed UAE 105-75 on the second day of 19th Dubai International Tournament. The defending champions finished the first quarter 34-17 and kept their hoop closed for 8:05 in the second quarter. The sauce-makers enjoyed a 61-29 half-time lead and 84-52 advantage at the end of the third quarter. Kamrani was awarded as the most valuable player at the end of the game.

On the same day, Hamed Afagh scored 26 points as Saba Battery took a 22-16 lead against their arch-rival, Sporting of Lebanon in the first period. But, the pressures and well-organized offense from the Asian Champions did not last long and Sporting finished the half-time 37-37. Ahead by only a 58-50 third-quarter margin, Sporting won the game as they edged Saba 82-77.
The results of Day 1, 2, and 3 are as follows:
- Friday 18/1:
Al Jalaa (Syria) - Zain (Jordan) 83-59
UAE - Sagesse (Lebanon) 83-80

- Saturday 19/1:
UAE - Mahram (Iran) 105-75
Al Ittihad (Syria) - Jazeira (Egypt) 75-80
Sporting (Lebanon) - Saba (Iran) 82-77
UAE - Al Jalaa (Syria) 80-98

- Sunday 20/1:
Mahram (Iran)- Jazeira (Egypt) 95-90
Zain (Jordan) - Sporting (Lebanon) 105-90
Sagesse (Lebanon) - Al Ittihad (Syria) 87-78

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ITALY

Coach Pillastrini leaves Virtus Bologna -by Gianni Pascucci
The usual press release full of 'circumstance terms' announced yesterday afternoon that Virtus Pallacanestro Bologna and coach Stefano Pillastrini agreed to part ways, after the last fall at home from Air Avellino. We can not say at this point who will accept to coach Virtus till the end of the season, for sure he will know that it will be a very hard job, the toughest part of it will be to support the sudden changes of mood and mind of team owner Claudio Sabatini, who could be (in our opinion) the ideal ABA commisioner...

Lega2-16th Day -by Gabriele Fioretti
5 players in double figures and Caserta defeated Soresina (J.R. Reynolds (188-G-84, agency: Arik Krayn Services, college: Virginia) at 19) in the sunday game tv match. Ferrara (Harold Jamison (204-C-76, agency: Strategic Sports, college: Clemson) 17+12) won at Novara (Hassan Adams (193-G-84, agency: David Lee services, college: Arizona) 15 pts). David Moss (196-F-83, agency: SportsTalent, college: Indiana St.) (30 pts) led Jesi to soccess against Montecatini (Darryl Wilson (185-G-74, agency: SportsTalent, college: Mississippi St.) at 24 scored). Pistoia (Janis Porzingis (201-F-82, agency: Stanley International) at 20 pts) go t the 6th place winning against Reggio Emilia (Alvin Young (191-F-75, agency: SportsTalent, college: Niagara) 19). Sassari (Brent Darby (185-G-81, college: Ohio St.) at 23 pts) came back to victory against Fabriano (Luis Flores (188-G-81, college: Manhattan) 26 pts). Tim Pickett (193-G/F-81, agency: Interperformances, college: Florida St.) scored 40 and Imola won against Pavia (Martin Colussi (193-G-81) 21 pts). Five players in double figure and Veroli won their 6th game against Rimini (Omar Thomas (195-F-82, college: UTEP) at 20 scored). Mauricio Aguiar (196-F-83, agency: Players Group) (24 pts) led Livorno to a surprising victory at Casale (Taquan Dean (193-G-83, college: Louisville) 24 pts).
Fastweb Casale-TDShop.it LI 75-80
Carmatic PT-Trenkwalder RE 67-53
Aget Imola-Edimes PV 88-80
Prima Veroli-Coopsette RN 77-72
Ignis Novara-Carife FE 50-81
BancoSardegna-Indesit Fab 95-71
Fileni Jesi-Agr.Glo.Mont. 90-76
Pepsi Caserta-Vanoli Soresina 91-74
See complete boxscores at www.legaduebasket.it

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JAMAICA

Wade plays big for Decatur Christian -by Kristian Santiago
BY JUSTIN CONN - H&R Staff Writer

DECATUR - Decatur Christian School senior Demeatrio Wade (193-F) came to this country from Jamaica for the opportunity to play college basketball.

But so far, the 6-foot-5 post hasn't gotten a single look. That could change with more performances like Wade had in the fourth quarter of the Warriors' 76-49 win over Lutheran School Association on Monday.

Wade, who scored seven points in the first half as his team clung to a 32-26 lead, had seven in the third quarter then blew the game open with a 10-point fourth quarter. He finished with 24 points.

``He has a lot of talent,'' said DCS coach Shaun Rapp, whose team improved to 12-2. ``He's really good at getting in position to get the ball down low.''

Wade is averaging 18 points per game in his first season at Decatur Christian. Last year, he played high school basketball in Kingston, Jamaica. He was picked out at a basketball camp in Jamaica and given the opportunity to come play in the U.S.

Wade arrived in Decatur in May and stays with the Tom Grady family.

``They're treating me very well,'' Wade said. ``Like a son.''

Wade has heard plenty of talk about the crime in Decatur. But he said it was nothing like he saw in Jamaica.

``Everyone thinks it's a laid-back vibe because it's the islands, and that's true,'' Wade said. ``But I hear people say Decatur is a violent place - it's nothing compared to where I'm from. I've seen a lot of violence. It's not like that here. I like it here.''

Wade misses his family - especially his mom - but said life in the U.S. isn't that much different than Jamaica. He said school has been the biggest change.

``I've never got an education like this before,'' Wade said. ``Here, if you get two Ds, you're ineligible. Back home, you can play as long as you keep your average up. There's just a lot more emphasis on education here.''

Wade said basketball has been easier to adjust to, though he's noticed differences on the court, too.

``Back home, it's more physical. I'd be playing games with tears in my eyes because of the elbows,'' Wade said. ``But I can shoot - that's a miracle there. Here, everyone can shoot it.''

Wade also said there's more focus on defense in Jamaica.

``The team I was on back home actually enjoyed playing defense,'' Wade said. ``Here, everyone enjoys offense. Our defense played much better in the second half tonight. But it's something we have to enjoy doing to really get better at it.''

Wade is glad he came to Decatur. But so far, it hasn't produced the results he'd hoped for.

``As of now, I haven't had any interest,'' Wade said. ``I came here for a reason and right now, I just feel like I need to get my name out there. I just want someone to come see me and give me a chance.''

Also for the Warriors, Bronson Dotson added 18 points off the bench and sparked DCS with eight points in the third quarter.

LSA (8-8) was led by Jacob Widenhofer with 16 points, including three 3-pointers.

Justin Conn can be reached at jconn@herald-review.com or 421-7971.

Tulsa holds off SMU -by Leonard Whyte
Dallas, TX (1-21-2008) - Center Jerome Jordan rebounded a missed shot with just 28 seconds left and scored to give Tulsa University the lead for good as they held off a determined challenge from Southern Methodist University to score their first Conference USA victory of the season. The 72-71 victory pushed Tulsa's record to 9-6 overall and 1-2 in conference play.

Grant and FSC take down Florida Tech -by Leonard Whyte
Lakeland, FL (1-21-2008) - There is something about Florida Institute of Technology (FIT) that brings out the best in Andrei Grant. Florida Southern College (FSC) and #11 Florida Tech, two of the highest scoring teams in the country, squared-off on Saturday night and when the dust had settled it was FSC upsetting the top team in the Sunshine State Conference 89-67 behind 15 points and nine rebounds from Grant. The senior forward has torched FIT over the last two years, averaging 14.0 points and 9.0 rebounds in four games against them. FSC entered the game as the nation's fourth highest scoring team in Division II, averaging close to 90 points per game, and recorded its second win over a ranked team this year to improve to 14-4 overall and 5-1 in the conference. They held FIT to 21 points under their season average and 37 percent shooting in the second half while forcing 29 turnovers and scoring 36 points off those turnovers.

Samuels overpowers DeMartha Christian -by Leonard Whyte
Newark, NJ (1-21-2008) - Samardo Samuels used his size and strength to overpower the DeMatha Catholic defenders last night and closed with a game-high 22 points as St. Benedict's Prep defeated DeMatha 75-41. Samuels went 8-of-12 from the field and 6-of-8 from the line. St. Benedict's, who fell to #3 on USA Today's Top 25 High School list, are now 16-1 on the season.

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JORDAN

Round ten of Excellent League -by Mohammed Malas
Runner-ups of last season Orthodox needed an overtime to passy by Arena Amman in round ten of Excellent League which was played yesterday with 3 games without Zain who was supposed to play against Hussein Erbid due to his participation in Dubai International Tournament.

Orthodox 107 - Arena 102 (Qs: 17-15, 51-43, 71-63, 88-88 & OT: 107-102)

Arena's imports Mark Strickland and Josh Cooperwood were the key of Arena's offense alongisde with Nidal Shareef and Zeid Abbas esspecially in the last two quarters but the did'nt resume too long after the big effort which was made by Chris Campbell, Kelly Wise and Ayman Idais to lead the team to overtime and win at the end.

College SC 87 - Al Wihdat 74 (Qs: 21-13, 43-27, 57-53 & 87-74)

A big game was made by College Sports Club players last night, Jamal Ward and Ty Brunson proved that they are the way of win and success for their team and led most of the time adding to the 1st appearance for the new college's player Hondre Brewer (213-C-80, college: USF) who made some nice tourches, In the other side, Anthony Steward, Moussa Al Awadi and Ahmed Shaker did the best they can to do something in the game but the score was for the other team side who kept their hopes in staying in Excellent League.

Al Riyadi/Aramex 106 - Al Awdeh 71 (Qs: 31-16, 54-32, 72-51 & 106-71)

Dawan Allison (178-G-78, college: N.C.Central) recorded his 1st participation with his new team Al Riyadi/Aramex who won over Al Awdeh 106-71....

Ali Jamal, Omar Olivier Bilbessi and Allison played well with their teammates to take the lead and control over Al Awdeh who will reserved his place back to Division One.

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KOSOVO

Media information on Super League -by Edona Shabani
The director of Super League Mr. Nuerdin Ibishi and the owner of 'Mabetex Group' Mr. Bexhet Pacolli signed an agreement in which the well known company ' Mabetex Group' will sponsor the Super League in basketball and from now on the Super League will be named after this company.

MABETEX SUPER LEAGUE
This company has been sponsoring Super League for three years.

Director of Super League
Nuredin Ibishi

Source: www.basketbolli.com

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LIBERIA

LBF League Heats Up -by Numennie Williams
The 2007-08 national league of the Liberia Basketball Federation continued over the week end at the famous Sports Commission gymnasium in the capital Monrovia. On Friday, Destiny Queens buried Timberwolves 41-33 points in a female clash. In the second encounter which was also in a female chase, defending champion K- Deltas outclass Commissioners 54-22 points and in the first division T-Chons fell to Dream Team 63-67 points in a tension packed match.
On Saturday January 19, 2007, SOS Trotters whipped Heats 57-41 points and on Sunday January 20, 2008, Urban Invaders fell to Don Bosco Legend 47-57 in the second division and in the first division, Dream Team fell to champion NPA Pythons 46-63 points.

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LIGA AMERICAS

Soles force Halcones to third game -by Gianni Pascucci
Defeating Halcones UV Xalapa de Xalapa 72-60 in Game 2 of Liga de las Americas Quarterfinals, Soles de Mexicali tied the series 1-1 forcing Halcones UV Xalapa to play tonight the third and decisive game. The winner of this Game 3 will be the first team qualified to the Liga de las Americas Final Four. Veteran Horacio Llamas (211-C-73, agency: Interperformances) was the MVP, ending the game with 19 points and 7 rebounds, well assisted by teammates Richard Lopez (192-G-78, college: Cal.Baptist) with 14 pts and 4 rebs and James Penny (198-F-76, college: TCU) with 12 pts and 5 rebs. The best at the losing side were Sam Bowie (198-F/G-75, college: SE Louisiana), who scored 12 pts and Michael Johnson, who ended the game with 11 pts and 4 assits.

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LITHUANIA

Praskevicius returns to Lithuania -by Simas Baranauskas
The only Lithuanian team in ULEB CUP 'Siauliai' signed Virginijus Praskevicius (206-C/F-74). The forward hasn't played in a team since leaving 'Alta Gestion' of Fuenlabrada in March 2007. During that season he averaged 6.3 points and 2.7 rebounds. The player is said to be ready for 'battle' in two or three weeks.

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LUXEMBOURG

Amicale and Residence get the final tickets to playoff -by Eurobasket News
Amicale, Contern and Residence completed the picture of this season's playoffs in DBBL. They all finished the regular season at 9-9 record and shared the 4th-6th spots to make it to the post season. Amicale grabbed an important road win over Nitia on January 15th to claim their spot. Amicale dominated throughout the game and deservedly celebrated a difficult win. Ben Perkins (200-F-79, college: Mc Neese St.) secured 20 points and 16 boards for Amicale. Sam Ney (194-F-87) had 19 points for the winners. Phil Grant (202-G/F-79, college: Iona) responded with 37 points for Nitia. And though Amicale lost their final game against Contern and did not bothered them too much as they clinched the 5th spot in the ladder. Contern at the same time used the win for their benefit. They improved to 9-9 record and finished the regular season at the 4th spot.
Contern were victorious twice during the last week of action. First they defeated Residence 80:54. Dave Mallon (208-F-83, college: St.Joseph's) led the action with 25 points and 12 boards for the hosts. Eric Jeizt dropped 17 points in a win. Will Brand (196-F-80, agency: Scorers 1st Sportmanagement, college: Albany) produced 24 points and 12 boards in a losing case. Contern extended their winning streak against Amicale next day. Dave Mallon this time provided 31 points and 12 boards in an 86:72 road win. Ben Perkins answered with 25 points and 11 boards for Amicale.
Residence were in quite uncomfortable situation after the game against Contern as they needed to overcome the defensing champs Sparta to hope for Top 6 spot. And they did surpassing the champions 76:67 in the final round. Will Brand topscored with 22 points for Residence. Sylvain Felten (190-G-81) and Frank Mangen (189-G/F-81) contributed 20 points apiece in a key win. Larrie Smith (195-F-75, college: Tennessee Tech) was unusually quiet for Sparta nailing only 18 points in a losing case.
Sparta and Etzella shared a win and a loss during the week and remained where they belonged. Etzella finished the regular season on top of the ladder at 15-3 record, while Sparta remained two wins shy of the leaders at 13-5.

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MEXICO

LICOMUBA results -by Charles Elwes

In the first games in the LICOMUBA gave us the next
results :


Mineros Parral went to Camargo and beat the actual champion
92 to 82 in front of packed crowd in Camargo Chihuahua.
Mineros Parral who return to the league after three years of absence
gave the surprise to beat the Choriceros.
At halftime the score was 44 to 37 in favor of Choriceros.
The top score for Choriceros Camargo was Mike Thompson (198-F-77, college: Salem Intern.)

with 23 pts and Manuel Gandarilla with 17 pts.

For Mineros was Vicente Chavez with a outstanding game with 36 pts.


Nogaleros Jimenez went to Saucillo and beat the Queseros Saucillo 88 to 68

where the top score for Nogaleros Jimenez was Omar Wallars 41 pts and

Jason Tollette (202-F-76, college: UTEP) with 23 pts. For Queseros Saucillo the

top score was Samuel Diaz with 28 pts and Jerry White 25 pts.


Faraones Nuevo Casas Grandes who looks to be one of the candidates for the

championship won against Liebres ITCJ by a score of 99 to 83 where local crowd

packed Gimnasio 'Jose Luis Satanas Arroyo' where the best player for Liebres was

Francisco Marmolejo (186-G-84) with 44 pts. For the Faraones was there trio

Cade Romney (-75) 14 pts , Tyson Jones 14 pts and Jamaican star

Mugabe Thomas (193-F-80, agency: Naiditch Entertainment, college: Cedarville) with 20 pts.


In the rivalry game of the league Dorados Chihuahua beat 67 to 58 Indios UACJ in Chihuahua capital

with both teams having young local players in there rosters.

Dorados Chihuahua of the LICOMUBA league have there home in Gimnasio Nayo Revilla.

The top score for Dorados was Rigoberto Baca 18 pts and for Indios Luis Avitia with 17 pts.


In other scores of saturdays games were Dorados Chihuahua beat 89 to 68 Liebres ITCJ and Mineros Parral 74

Queseros Saucillo 61 and Faraones Nvo Casas Grandes took care of another team from Cd.Juarez the Indios UACJ

by a score of 84 to 66 in saturday action.



Soles force Halcones to third game -by Gianni Pascucci
Defeating Halcones UV Xalapa de Xalapa 72-60 in Game 2 of Liga de las Americas Quarterfinals, Soles de Mexicali tied the series 1-1 forcing Halcones UV Xalapa to play tonight the third and decisive game. The winner of this Game 3 will be the first team qualified to the Liga de las Americas Final Four. Veteran Horacio Llamas (211-C-73, agency: Interperformances) was the MVP, ending the game with 19 points and 7 rebounds, well assisted by teammates Richard Lopez (192-G-78, college: Cal.Baptist) with 14 pts and 4 rebs and James Penny (198-F-76, college: TCU) with 12 pts and 5 rebs. The best at the losing side were Sam Bowie (198-F/G-75, college: SE Louisiana), who scored 12 pts and Michael Johnson, who ended the game with 11 pts and 4 assits.

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PANAMA

Ayarza in California JUCO -by Rolando Delabarrera
Josimar Ayarza has finally surfaced at Cuesta College in California. The 6'8'' Panamanian forward is averaging a team leading 19.7 ppg and shooting 50% from the field, 35% from the three point and 66% from the line. Ayarza and Carlos Johnson moved stateside several years ago with Laurian Watkins ( Pro Skills Academy) and it was difficult to pinpoint their whereabouts. Well, Ayarza at least is playing at the Junior College level right now and doing a credible job. Cuesta is presently 7-15 on the year and 1-1 in conferece. Josimar Ayarza (205-F-87)

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POLAND

Point guard Markus Carr added to the roster of Gornik Walbrzych -by Wojciech Strzebinczyk
Gornik Walbrzych made last corrections in roster by signing top point guard of French Pro A Markus Carr (186-G-79, college: Cal.St. Northridge). Carr who was star guard in BigSky (NCAA1) with great 8.9apg in his top season, played later two years in Europe. After 2006 in Hungary last season he signed in french Pro A team Reims Champagne Basket where played 34 games and averaged 14.2ppg, 2.9rpg, Assists-4(5.2apg), 1.4spg.. He will be propably last hired by Gornik management during this season.

source: www.promotex.org

Forward David Lucas landing in Polonia Warszawa -by Wojciech Strzebinczyk
Another changes coming in Polonia Warszawa. They just signed verstitate American forward David Lucas (203-F-82, agency: TASM, college: Oregon St.) who just landed in Poland. Lucas was star of NCAA when he lead Oregon State and in 2005 he was choosen to All Portsmouth Invitational Tourney All-Star Team (NBA Pre-Draft Camp). After he played in top portugese team Benfica Lisbona (15 games: 15.3ppg, 6.1rpg) and last season in american IBL with averages 36.5ppg, 15.0rpg where he was league MVP.

source: www.promotex.org

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PORTUGAL

Belenenses host back Nwankwo -by Luis Rocha
Ike Nwankwo (209-C-73, college: Long Beach St.) is back to Belenenses. Since he's departure the results hadn't been the best for the team, and so they decided to let go Spencer Foster (199-F-84, agency: Court Side, college: Biola (CA)) and sign back Nwankwo. He already played this weekend and Belenenses won.

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PUERTO RICO

Boricuas Abroad and Rice in Carolina -by Alessandro Fontana
BORICUAS ABROAD
In NBA, Orlando Magic defeated Portland 101-94, Carlos Arroyo played 22 minutes with 8 pts (4/6 2pts, 0/1 3pts), 2 rebs and 1 assts. Dallas won against Seattle 111-96, Jose Juan Barea scored 3 pts (1/1 3pts) with 1 reb and 1 ass in 2 minutes.
In Spain, Daniel Santiago scored 4 pts (1/4 2pts, 2/2 FT) and 1 reb and his team Unicaja malaga won against Valencia 80-77. Peter John Ramos played 12 minutes with 2 pts (1/4 2pts) and 3 rebs but his team was defeated by Real Madrid 79-76.
In Adriatic League, Larry Ayuso scored 9 pts and His team Cibona Zagreb was defeated by Buducnost Podgorica 81-71. In Poland Polpharma won against Atlas 96-85, Donald Copeland played a great 'partidazo', the MVP of the game with 27 pts (7/9 2pts, 0/6 3pts, 13/15 FT), 10 assists and 6 rebs. Copeland is the best scorer of the Polish league with 23, 6 ppg.
In Turkey, Besiktas was defeated by Karsiyaka 99-90. Rick Apodaca scored 15 pts+1 reb and Christian Dalmau 10 pts+1reb+3assts.
In Mexico, Dorados de Chihuahua qualified for the first time for Mexican Play-Offs, Dorados won against San Luis 89-85, Keenan Jourdon scored 26 pts, Rafael 'Pachy' Cruz 16 pts+6assts. Dorados had a 27-21 standings.
BSN NEWS
Carmelo Lee will be in Puerto Rico this week to start the trainings with his team Conquistadores de Guaynabo. Carolina signed Darius Rice, a strong american power forward. Rice had experiences in Europe in Poland, in CBA, in Venezuela and also in China. Last season He played in NBDL with Dakota Wizards with 13, 7 ppg and 4,3 rpg.
Capitanes de Arecibo played another friendly-game against a Rep. Dominican Selection. Arecibo won 66-53. The MVP was Angel Figueroa with 17 pts.
A. Fontana

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ROMANIA

Univ Mobitelco Cluj Napoca sign Brad Buckman -by Eurobasket
Univ Mobitelco Cluj Napoca agreed terms with 24-year old American forward Brad Buckman (203-F-84, college: Texas). Buckman played last season at Austin Toros (D-League) in the U.S. He actually started 06-07 season at Greek team Olimpia GE Larisa. But was suspended for 2 years by Greek League and had to come back to the States to finish the season.

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SCOTLAND

A win but not advance -by Eurobasket News

The SAMG Verve Scottish Rocks beat the Newcastle Eagles 100:78. In order to overturn the Eagles, the Rocks had to tie or better the 24-point margin that the Eagles beat them by in the first game. Earlier in the game the teams had traded 10-0 bursts but then Rocks lead 43:38 at the half time. Robert Yanders (180-G-79, college: Missouri St.) led the winners with 26 points. Davis netted 21, while Hampton scored 17. Smith finished the night with 17 points in the losing effort.

Robert Jr. Archibald (211-C/F-80, college: Illinois) netted 8 points in Ukraine for Azovmash and made 2 rebounds and 1 steal. Azovmash Mariupol however lost its Uleb game to Pamesa Valencia that improved to 7-2. In the last quarter a put-back basket by Edney capped a 9-0 run that got the hosts even closer, 48:59. Pamesa went scoreless for 5 minutes until Barac buried a triple, but Robert Jr. Archibald and Liadelis brought Azovmash within single digits, 54:62. Robert Jr. Archibald scored another one for a 64:68 but Pamesa cruised a win.

John Tehan (185-G-71) and his Tigers made it through to the National Cup Finals. They secured their respective victories in the National Basketball Arena to claim the Final spots. The Tigers overcame UCD Marian. 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 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 capped the first half with a three-pointer to give UCD/Marian a 40:32 advantage. Michael Quirke 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 Tehan sealed the win for the Tigers. Carl Hadley drained 30 points to lead the winners.

SAMG Verve Scottish Rocks - Newcastle Eagles 100:78
Eagles: Smith 17, Olu Babalola (198-F-81, college: Clemson) 13, Flournoy 11
Rocks: Robert Yanders 26, Davis 21, Hampton 17



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SERBIA

A league, round 13: Joyful week-end for the hosts -by Dragan Jankovski
After 13 rounds of Serbian A league Mega Aqua Monta from Belgrade remains alone on top with 10 wins and 3 defeats. They made easy home victory over Masinac 87-70 extending their lead from quarter to quarter. Same picture from the previous round repeated as young Uros Nikolic (207-F-87) shined again showing impressive performance. He paced Mega AM collecting 31 points, 8 rebounds and 5 steals. Strahinja Dragicevic (194-F-86) followed him with 14 points while Slobodan Bozovic (207-F/C-79) was better than the others in Masinac adding 26 points and 7 rebounds.

In very exciting game with a lot of turns Radnicki 034 Group was better than Novi Sad in thriller 83-81. Visitors had advantage of 8 points in 29th minute but after 3 minutes of the last period Radnicki set the score on 69-68. Visitors were unsuccessful at their last possession on score 82-81 after what Beader made one FT for the final score 83-81. Rajko Kljajevic (204-F-85, agency: Interperformances) made double-double adding 27 points, 11 rebounds and 4 assists while veteran Radovan Pesic (185-G-72, agency: Beo Basket) had 22 points and 5 assists for the winners. Miroslav Radenkovic (204-F-83) was totally the best in Novi Sad as he finished the game with 21 points and 18 rebounds. Radnicki improved to score 9-4 while Novi Sad dropped on 7-6.

Sloga smashed Vizura at home 110-83 mostly owing to pair of guard Slobodan Pejovic (194-G-86) - Marko Popovic (193-G-84), who posted 45 points together.

Current MVP of A league Nikola Ilic (207-C/F-85), who collected 34 points and 12 rebounds, led Borac in victory over Napredak Rubin 102-90 while Sava Rajkovic (201-G/F-73, agency: Beo Basket) with 24 points, 9 rebounds and 4 steals had a very important role for Radnicki Invest Inzenjering against Ergonom 75-62.

Swisslions Takovo was better than Zdravlje Actavis on Friday 99-75.


Mega Aqua Monta - Masinac 87-70
(22-19,23-16,20-14,22-21)

Mega Aqua Monta: Nikolic 31 (8 rebs, 5 st), Dragicevic 14 (4 rebs), Stojacic 13 (4 rebs), Markovic 12 (4 as)
Masinac: Bozovic 26 (7 rebs), Habus 15 (4 as)


Radnicki 034 Group - Novi Sad 83-81
(20-23,23-18,18-27,22-13)

Radnicki 034 Group: Kljajevic 27 (11 rebs, 4 as), Pesic 22 (5 as), Janjusevic 10
Novi Sad: Radenkovic 21 (18 rebs, 4 as), Martinic 19, Bjegovic 16 (5 rebs)


Sloga - Vizura 110-83
(28-17,20-19,33-24,29-23)

Sloga: Pejovic 23 (5 rebs), Popovic 22 (7 as), Dasic 19 (7 rebs)
Vizura: Vuksanovic 29, Karic 15 (4 as), Balzamovic 10


Borac - Napredak Rubin 102-90
(21-23,37-20,24-19,20-28)

Borac: Ilic 34 (12 rebs), Maric 15 (4 as), Radisavljevic 11 (10 as), Markovic 11
Napredak Rubin: Miletic 17 (4 rebs), Gojnic 17, Kocergin 11


Radnicki Invest Inzenjering - Ergonom 75-62
(18-13,19-20,20-10,18-19)

Radnicki: Rajkovic 24 (9 rebs, 4 st), Popovic 21 (10 rebs), Fekete 12 (4 as)
Ergonom: Koprivica 20 (5 rebs), Piplovic 13 (9 rebs)

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SLOVAK REP.

Lucenec climbs to the throne alone -by Eurobasket News
The last round over the weekend left only Lucenec on top of Slovak League. Three teams however follow it now with 1 win behind.
ESO CLUB Lucenec smashed HBK Prievidza 94:61 to take 14-4 record. The game was tough and the word 'smash' probably did not belong to that game, but 28:7 in the last quarter made the score inappropriate. Peter Praznovsky (205-F-78, agency: Court Side, college: Tarleton St.) led the winners with 26 points. Bicvic posted 20, while Sykora scored 10. Puljko top-scored in the losing effort with 17 points.
Inter Bratislava reached 13-5 record after defeating Slovintegra Levice 81:74. trailing in the first two quarters the hosts found its game and won the encounter. Novak paced all the winners with 23 points. Dusan Pandula (195-F-84) and Micka followed him with 13 points each as Dragan Ristanovic (191-G-66) top-scored for the guests with 15 points.
SKANSKA Pezinok fell at 13-5 after an upset from Nova Ves 90:56. The favorite could not come back to the game after 8:24 in the first quarter. Marcel Madaj (200-F-78) led the winners with 20 points. Hovaňak nailed 16 and Ridzoň poured in 14. Delic scored only 13 being the top-scorer in defeat.
Chemosvit Svit aslo moved to the top positions after a home win over MBK Handlova 98:87. Drazen Klaric (205-F-80) chipped in 19 points for the hosts advantage.

Chemosvit Svit - MBK Handlova 98:87 (27:23, 25:24, 18:15, 28:25)
Chemosvit Svit:Drazen Klaric 19, Laco 16, Sedmak 15
MBK Handlova: Nenad Milosevic (188-G-83) 33, Vlaic 18, Klatik 11

Inter Bratislava - Slovintegra Levice 81:74 (24:28, 15:18, 22:17, 20:11)
Inter Bratislava:Novak 23, Dusan Pandula 13, Micka 13
Slovintegra Levice: Dragan Ristanovic 15, Gambiroza 14, Jurik 12

BK CASTA SPU Nitra - MBK Rieker Komarno 88:75 (21:31, 27:20, 22:17, 18:7)
BK CASTA SPU Nitra:Hill 25, Andrej Cervenka (198-G/F-84) 23, Seman 18
MBK Rieker Komarno: Ivan Barisic (200-C, agency: Heinrich Sports) 20, Pivac 14, Ivanovic 13

ESO CLUB Lucenec - HBK Prievidza 94:61 (27:25, 23:18, 16:11, 28:7)
ESO CLUB Lucenec: Peter Praznovsky 26, Bicvic 20, Sykora 10
HBK Prievidza: Puljko 17, Immink 12, Vucic 10

Nova Ves - SKANSKA Pezinok 90:59 (24:8, 30:17, 14:14, 22:20)
Nova Ves:Marcel Madaj 20, Hovaňak 16, Ridzoň 14
SKANSKA Pezinok: Delic 13, Brliť 12, Micuda 9

Slavia TU Kosice - BK Dolny Kubin 79:65 (24:10, 16:10, 21:21, 18:24)
Slavia TU Kosice:Richard Misinsky (186-G-80) 25, Utľak 12, Baťka 10
BK Dolny Kubin: Mario Kurilic (180-G-88) 21, Petrovic 19, Cvitanovic 10

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SLOVENIA

Capin move to Panionios, Hopsi adds Dawson -by Zeljko Zule

NT member Aleksandar Capin (186-G-82) has left Varese to join Panionios till end of the season.

Hopsi inked American Mark Dawson (203-C, college: Long Beach St.) ex Ballers Osnabrueck for the rest of the season.



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SPAIN

ACB Round 18 -by Paul Nilsen
The first game in Round 18 writes Paul Nilsen, saw Madrid Giants Estudiantes slump back into the relegation spots with a woeful home performance against Polaris World Murcia. Just when it looked as if they were set to pull away from those at the bottom, they slumped to a 54-63 home loss in front of almost 10,000 disgruntled fans.

Despite scoring 20 points in the first quarter and somehow leading at the half, they managed just another 33 in the next three quarters of basketball as the visitors scored 23 in the final period to pick up a vital win and void slipping into trouble themselves. Estu were completely out muscled on the boards and this set the tone for the loss as did 24 points and 6 boards from the impressive Jimmie Hunter (196-G-77, college: Life). Nobody impressed for the home team who will now be fearing the worst after this performance.

Estu had to sit and wait 24 hours to drop into the relegation zone after Cajasol Seville picked up an unlikely but terrific 69-67 win at Akasvayu Girona in a hard fought game which will give them great heart after a poor run of form recently. A great first half was the key for Seville who managed 50 points to establish a 15 point lead at the break and while they dried up to score a paltry 1