EUROBASKET NEWS REPORT - 1/25/2008

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Men News

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BELGIUM

Jacques Ledure, at least two more years as Manager of the Lions -by Bertrand Larsimont


Through an agreement with the Belgian Federation, the VBL (the Flemish wing) and the AWBB (the french-speaking wing), Jacques Ledure will still be assigned to organize the Belgian national team management during two years, with an option for two additional years. 'Jacques Ledure has set up an organization and a real structure among the men's national team. He gained confidence from players, clubs, commercial partners, media and federations' leaders. We consider the future as hopeful' said Cyriel Coomans, the President of the Belgian Federation.

Jacques Ledure, who confirmed the news to Eurobasket Belgium, is 'pleased to see that a good collaboration with the federation is possible in the years to come. Foundations have been set on and off the court and we can contemplate the future with ambition. The first objective will be the qualifying round for the Euro 2009 in Lithuania.' The draw for this European Championship qualifying round will be held in Venice, Italy on February 16th, 2008 (source: belga).



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BOSNIA

Bosnian A1 League - 8TH round -by Elvir Halilovic
Results:
Brcko District - Bihac 93:63
Cazin Limometal - Novi Grad Atal 90:81
Velpak Centar - Student 81:62
Procom Lukavac - Trica Man Hummel 75:70
Bosnjak - Velez 65:91
Play Off - Kakanj 64:88

Next round (January 26TH)
Kakanj - Brcko District
Velez - Play Off
Trica Man Hummel - Bosnjak
Student - Procom Lukavac
Novi Grad Atal - Velpak Centar
Bihac - Cazin Limometal

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BULGARIA

A babygirl in CSKA -by Vladi Lazarova

A babygirl was born in CSKA 24 hours before the decisive game against Cherno more tomorrow in 'Hristo Botev' arena in Sofia. The proud father is the most important person with 'red' jersey - the captain of the team Georgi Davidov (204-C-76). 31-years old center became a father of a second babygirl. His wife Sofia gave birth to their wonderful Karina. With her 51 cm height and 3,600 kg weight she is ready to climb the top in sports and in modeling. The family has another girl - 5-years old Nia.




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CUBA

LSB Statistics after 10 games, Jemmott top scorer -by Alessandro Fontana
LSB Statistics
POINTS
Allens Jemmott (Matanzas) 30,2
Geoffrey Silvestre (Ciego de Avila) 22,2
Danny Torriente (Matanzas) 21,8
Andy Boffill (Villa Clara) 21,3
Henry Simon (Guantanamo) 20,9
REBOUNDS
Geoffry Silvestre (Ciego de Avila) 8,1
Eliezer Lima (Capitalinos) 7,8
Yoel Carta (Villa Clara) 7,4
Leonel Batista (Camaguey) 6,2
Esteban Martinez (Santiago de Cuba) 6,2
ASSISTS
Manuel Area (Santiago de Cuba) 4,6
Alexei Mestre (Camaguey) 3,3
Michael Guerra (Ciego de Avila) 2,8
Georvis Elias (Guantanamo) 2,4
Alejandro Arcia (Villa Clara) 2,3
STEALS
Danny Torriente (Matanzas) 5,3
Allens Jemmott (Matanzas) 4,6
Yorman Polas (Camaguey) 4,5
Michael Guerra (Ciego de Avila) 4,2
BLOCKS
Ray Luis, Vera (Ciego de Avila) 1,6
Eliecer Lima (Capitalinos) 1,3
A. Fontana

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CZECH REP.

Johnson and Williams will not continue in Geofin Novy Jicin -by Ondra Simecek
It was announced today by Geofin Novy Jicin that two new players Kevin Johnson (203-F-80, college: Charlotte) and Jermaine Williams (207-C-79, agency: HM Sports Agency, college: Charlotte) are released only after two weeks of being with the team. The club waived them after loosing in the Czech Cup against Ostrava on Wednesday claiming that neither Johnson nor Williams fullfiled expactations of the management.

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D-LEAGUE

Last Transactions -by Surujh Roopnarine
NBA  D-League Assignments
The Charlotte Bobcats have assigned rookie forward Jermareo Davidson to the Sioux Falls Skyforce. Davidson, a rookie out of Alabama, was selected with the 27th pick of the 2007 NBA Draft after averaging 14.0 points, 8.2 rebounds and 2.3 blocks in 30 games his senior season. Davidson has appeared in 16 games this season for the Bobcats, averaging 2.7 points and 1.5 rebounds in 7.2 minutes.

Rookie guard JamesOn Curry has been recalled from the Iowa Energy by the Chicago Bulls. Curry will be scheduled to undergo thumb surgery upon his recall. In 13 D-League games this season for Iowa, he averaged 20.2ppg, 5.6apg, 3.2rpg and 1.08spg in 39.7 mpg.

Roster Moves
Utah Flash: Re-acquired former Nevada Wolf Pack standout Gary Hill-Thomas. Originall selected as a ninth-round selection in the 2007 D-League Draft, Hill-Thomas was the last cut in training camp. Hill-Thomas averaged 10.8 points and 3.6 rebounds in 124 career games at Nevada. His last professional stint was spent in New Zealand where he averaged 25.4 points and 4.3 rebounds in 29 games for Taranaki in 2006 and 2007. The Flash also waived Aleksandar Ugrinoski dur to injury. A native of Croatia, Ugrinoski averaged 8.8 minutes, 2.3 points and 0.4 rebounds in 16 games for Utah.

Anaheim Arsenal: Signed D-League veteran guard Mo Charlo and waived Jamaal Thomas. Charlo joins Nick Fazekas (Tulsa), Ramon Sessions (Tulsa) and Gary Hill-Thomas (Utah) as former players from the University of Nevada now in the D-League.

Rio Grande Valley: Signed experienced center Kyle Davis and waived Chris Taft due to injury. Taft once gain seems to have had his once promising career derailed by injuries. Davis, a veteran of the US Minor Leagues (USBL, WBA, D-League) was a member of the Huntsville Flight during the 2004-05 season.


Last Transactions -by Surujh Roopnarine
NBA --> D-League Assignments
The Charlotte Bobcats have assigned rookie forward Jermareo Davidson (6'10''-F-84, college: Alabama) to the Sioux Falls Skyforce. Davidson, a rookie out of Alabama, was selected with the 27th pick of the 2007 NBA Draft after averaging 14.0 points, 8.2 rebounds and 2.3 blocks in 30 games his senior season. Davidson has appeared in 16 games this season for the Bobcats, averaging 2.7 points and 1.5 rebounds in 7.2 minutes.

Rookie guard JamesOn Curry (6'3''-G-86, college: Oklahoma St.) has been recalled from the Iowa Energy by the Chicago Bulls. Curry will be scheduled to undergo thumb surgery upon his recall. In 13 D-League games this season for Iowa, he averaged 20.2ppg, 5.6apg, 3.2rpg and 1.08spg in 39.7 mpg.

Roster Moves
Utah Flash: Re-acquired former Nevada Wolf Pack standout Gary Hill-Thomas (6'5''-G-82, college: Nevada). Originall selected as a ninth-round selection in the 2007 D-League Draft, Hill-Thomas was the last cut in training camp. Hill-Thomas averaged 10.8 points and 3.6 rebounds in 124 career games at Nevada. His last professional stint was spent in New Zealand where he averaged 25.4 points and 4.3 rebounds in 29 games for Taranaki in 2006 and 2007. The Flash also waived Aleksandar Ugrinoski (6'4''-G-88, agency: Interperformances) dur to injury. A native of Croatia, Aleksandar Ugrinoski averaged 8.8 minutes, 2.3 points and 0.4 rebounds in 16 games for Utah.

Anaheim Arsenal: Signed D-League veteran guard Mo Charlo (6'7''-F-83, college: Nevada) and waived Jamaal Thomas (6'8''-F-80, college: Angelo St.). Charlo joins Nick Fazekas (Tulsa), Ramon Sessions (Tulsa) and Gary Hill-Thomas (Utah) as former players from the University of Nevada now in the D-League.

Rio Grande Valley: Signed experienced center Kyle Davis (6'10''-F-82, agency: Elfus-Siegel Management (ESM), college: Auburn) and waived Chris Taft (6'10''-F-85, college: Pittsburgh)due to injury. Taft once gain seems to have had his once promising career derailed by injuries. Davis, a veteran of the US Minor Leagues (USBL, WBA, D-League) was a member of the Huntsville Flight during the 2004-05 season.

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DOMINICAN REP.

San Francisco De Macoris Regional League -by Kerwin Abreu
San Francisco De Macoris: San Francisco Regional league will be holding its XXIII version supposed to start next Saturday 26th, Traditional teams like San Martin, Juan Pablo Duarte, San Vicente, Maximo Gomez and Santa Ana will be playing since next saturday in an interesting tournament. Juan Pablo Duarte will have Charlie Rodriguez (202-F/C-78) and Dwarling Guerrero as reinforces. Santa Ana will have Richard Matienzo (202-F/C-69, college: Miami Dade CC) and Hansel Salvador (186-G-80). Maximo Gomez will have Marlon Martinez (204-F/C-77, agency: Duran International) and Joel Ramirez (191-G-81). San Vicente De Paul will have Benito Flores (198-F-80, college: Wisc.-Green Bay) and Juan Coronado. San Martin De Porres will have Ramon Reyes (200-F-78) and Franklin Matos (190-G-82) all players will be as regional and national players.

Later on we are going to talk about favorites and Team Rosters.

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EBA

EBA started and is in full effect -by Justin Moore
This year the EBA Has two new franchises the Camden Pride and the Alexandria Avengers and the EBA looks to be running strong .
Jan 12th Harrisburg Horizon 107 Newjersey Starting Five 106, Derrick Perry (6'5''-F-75, college: Rider) led Harrisburg 22pts &rebs and Micah Davenport 22pts 7rebs 5blks, Kareem Collins (6'4''-G-80, college: New Jersey City St.) led New Jersey Starting 5 with 29pts in defeat
Alexandria Avengers 101 Delaware Destroyers 88 Alexandria was led by Tyree Harris 19pts Brian Polk (6'4''-G-81, college: Temple) (temple u)17pts 8rebs Justin Moore(St Augustine)Jah sports 12pts 4asst 3stls Delaware was led by Sherman Brittingham's 34pts in a losing effort
Jan 12th Schuylkill Firedogs 106 North Jersey lakers 105

Jan 19th NJ Starting Five 104 Alexandria Avengers 103, Camden Pride 119 NJ Bullets 104
Jan 20th Delaware Destroyers 132 Schuylkill firedogs 106

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EGYPT

Gezira facing AL Jalaa(syr) tonight in the quarter final of Dubai tournament -by Sherif Soliman
At 7.00 PM Cairo time Gezira will face EL Jalaa(syr) in the quarter final with almost no hope to win this game. AL Jalaa boasts three American players, including SAMAKI WALKER who played 445 games while in the NBA. On the other side the Gezira players lost 2 games and most of the big players are showing a very bad performance during the tournament.Samaki Walker (206-F/C-76, college: Louisville)

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EUROLEAGUE

CSKA confident against Tau in Moscow -by Eurobasket News
CSKA - Tau 70:62

Group A leaders CSKA gained their 11th win in the Euroleague season and sealed the top spot yesterday. They hosted Tau in a new Palace of Sports Khodynka. CSKA never disappointed a sell-out crowd of 13,000. Scottie Pippen, Sergei Panov and Sergei Bazarevich were among the guests on the game. J.R. Holden (185-G-76, college: Bucknell) and David Andersen (212-C-80) did not wait for too long to take it off for CSKA with back-to-back triples. Trajan Langdon (192-G-76, college: Duke) added 5 straight points to set CSKA ahead at 11:2. However Igor Rakocevic (191-G-78) stepped for Spanish side with a couple of difficult baskets and Tau cut the gap to 15:9. Igor Rakocevic went on scoring and Mirza Teletovic (205-F-85, agency: Beo Basket) scored a jumper to ignite a 7:0 run for the visitors as they grabbed a 16:15 advantage. David Andersen capped the first frame with 4 points and the hosts led 19:16 after 10 minutes of action. The teams traded the baskets in the second quarter and were tied at 29 before Marcus Goree (201-F-77, college: W.Virginia) and Pashutin combined for 5 consecutive points to give CSKA a 34:29 cushion at the interval. J.R. Holden and Ramunas Siskauskas (197-G-78) fired from downtown early in the third term as the home side opened up a 10-point lead. J.R. Holden was deadly from the field as his trey marked a 15-point lead for CSKA. Pablo Prigioni (186-G-77) and Anatoly Kashirov (215-C-87, agency: Court Side) exchanged three-pointers to wrap up the action in the third period with CSKA leading by 14 points. Tiago Splitter (211-C/F-85, agency: Interperformances) and Igor Rakocevic got Tau going in the fourth with back-to-back jumpers but J.R. Holden quickly matched them with another massive treble to restore the safe distance. Sergi Vidal (198-F/G-81) and Mouneke exploded with two more treys for Tau as they trimmed the difference to 9 points. Tiago Splitter and Igor Rakocevic erased the gap to just 5 points over 2 minutes left. But J.R. Holden refused to give up the lead with yet another three-pointer to give CSKA a breathing space.
J.R. Holden finished the game with 19 points to pace CSKA. Trajan Langdon added 13 points, while Ramunas Siskauskas had 9 points and 5 boards for the winners. Igor Rakocevic answered with 21 points for Tau. Tiago Splitter notched 12 points as the visitors fell to 8-5 record in the ladder. CSKA will visit Bologna next week. Tau hosts Zalgiris in the final round of regular season.

CSKA: J.R. Holden 19, Trajan Langdon 13, Ramunas Siskauskas 9
Tau: Igor Rakocevic 21, Tiago Splitter 12

Lietuvos Rytas clinches the top spot in Group B -by Eurobasket News
Lietuvos Rytas - Unicaja 71:63

The situation in Group B of Euroleague regular season got a bit clear with Lietuvos Rytas claiming a win over Unicaja yesterday. They now improved to 10-3 record and would have an advantage over Maccabi if tied after 14 rounds. Maccabi will play their Round 13 encounter later today. Unicaja meanwhile slipped to 9-4 record and lost the chances of occupying the top spot in the group. The hosts took over right from the start with a pair of three-pointers from Matt Nielsen (208-F/C-78) and Mindaugas Lukauskis (198-G-79). Lietuvos Rytas continued to dominate and soon piled up a 17:7 lead. Hollis Price (186-G-79, college: Oklahoma) connected from afar minutes later for a 22:11 advantage. Marcus Haislip (207-F-80, college: Tennessee) and Davor Kus (190-G-78) nailed 4 free throws in the dying seconds of the first frame and Unicaja trailed by 7 points after 10 minutes. Spanish team stepped on the gas in the second frame with Carlos Jimenez (203-F-76) and N'Dong nailing straight buckets to erase the deficit. Bernardo Rodriguez (197-F/G-80) put the visitors as close as 2 points midway through the quarter but Lietuvos Rytas reacted. Arturas Jomantas (202-G/F-85) and Martynas Gecevicius (193-G-88) teamed up for 7 points and the hosts restored a double-figure lead. Rytas were up by 13 points at halftime 41:28. Unicaja stayed competitive in the third stanza with N'Dong and Marcus Haislip dominating the paint. They produced some impressive dunks and the visitors climbed within 3 points from Lietuvos Rytas. Jiri Welsch (200-F-80) made it even thinner with free throws. Hollis Price then converted 6 points for Rytas and the gap was enlarged to 7 points after three terms. Carlos Cabezas (186-G-80) hit from downtown to keep the intrigue alive. The hosts were in front by 4 points when Hollis Price sank another jumper as Lietuvos Rytas entered the final two minutes leading by 6 points. Marcus Haislip scored but was well-matched by Kenan Bajramovic (206-F-81, agency: Beo Basket) with under a minute left. Hollis Price made the outcome clear with a steal and a three-point play completed with second remaining in regulation.
Hollis Price tallied 23 points and 6 assists for Lietuvos Rytas. Marijonas Petravicius (207-F/C-79, college: S.Carolina) and Martynas Gecevicius added 11 points apiece in a win. Marcus Haislip answered with 22 points for Unicaja. N'Dong finished with 16 points in defeat. Unicaja will wrap up their regular season action against Efes Pilsen. Lietuvos Rytas will visit Cibona next week.

Lietuvos Rytas: Hollis Price 23, Marijonas Petravicius 11, Martynas Gecevicius 11
Unicaja: Marcus Haislip 22, N'Dong 16

Pete Mickeal, out again for 10-15 days -by Natxo Mendaza
TAU Ceramica forward Pete Mickeal (198-F-78, college: Cincinnati) will have to rest for a two-weeks period after getting injured during the game against CSKA in Moscow on Wednesday afternoon. Mickeal, who spent last 3 weeks sidelined due to a muscular tear on his right thigh, came back to Euroleague action this week but couldn't stay more than two minutes on court after feeling pain on his left calf muscle. After medical examinations were performed, the diagnosis has been a muscle tear that will prevent Mickeal from playing for a short period of 10-15 days. Thus, Mickeal will miss next Euroleague game against Zalgiris Kaunas and is doubtful for the upcoming Spanish King's Cup, which will be held in Vitoria on February 7-10.

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FRANCE

ProA [Gravelines] : Marcus Slaughter in, Djuro Ostojic out -by Aurelien Hipp
*Gravelines just inked Marcus Slaughter (203-F-85, college: San Diego St.) in the roster and released Djuro Ostojic (211-C-76, agency: Beo Basket) after having found an agreement with the player.Slaughter studied at San Diego State and posted 16.5ppg 11.0 rpg as a senior. He started the season with Hapoel Jerusalem (8.0ppg 6.4rpg). Last year he had his first european season completed with Izmir, posting 13.3ppg 10.2rpg.

Mickael Mokongo signs with Gravelines -by Maxime Weber
Mickael Mokongo (180-G-86, agency: ACMT) left BanvitSpor last week and signed yesterday with BCM Gravelines Dunkerque. He cumuled 10.5ppg and 3.5apg with Banvit.
After a bad first half of season, Graveliens needs energy and defense to keep a few chances to take part of the playoffs.
Mike Mokongo said:'I'm happy to come back in France. I have understood a lot of thigs during my two exeperiences abroad and now I'm ready to help Gravelines and take pleasure on French courts.'

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GERMANY

Two Germans in Denmark -by Moritz Korff
Two former members of the German Junior National Team are trying to receive contracts in Denmark at the moment. Raed Mostafa (203-F-84, agency: Heinrich Sports, college: W.Kentucky) and Achmadschah Zazai (177-G-86, agency: Heinrich Sports) are on a tryout at Horsens IC (Basketligaen), where another German - Mike Baron (197-F-81, college: Hawaii-Pacific) - spent some time earlier in this season.
From October to December Mostafa had 8 apperances for Hamar in the Icelandic Express-league, averaging 12.0 points and 4.0 boards. Meanwhile, Zazai added 3.4 points and 1.1 assists per contest for the Bremen Roosters (2. Bundesliga Pro A).

New names for Giessen and Lich -by Moritz Korff
The cooperating teams Giessen 46ers (1. Bundesliga) and TV Lich (2. Bundesliga Pro A) have gotten new names after making a deal with LTi, an energy and automation engineering company from Lahnau. The contract with LTi runs through the 2009-2010 season. The 46ers will from now on carry the name LTi Giessen 46ers, while the Pro B-team will operate under the name of LTi Lich.

Griffin to stay in Hagen -by Moritz Korff
Phoenix Hagen (2. Bundesliga Pro A) decided to keep Chase Griffin (188-G-83, college: Pepperdine) for the remainder of this season. The 24-year-old Shooting Guard used a ten-day-tryout in Hagen to convince the coaching squad. In his debut for Phoenix against MBC Griffin scored 7 points, grabbed 5 rebounds and handed out 3 assists.

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HUNGARY

KKK: new guard on the roster -by Tamas Deri
The management of KKK just published the signment of croatian-bosnian guard Matija Ceskovic (192-G-81, agency: Court Side), who will arrive tonight to Hungary. If the letter of clearence of the player will arrive on time, the player should be on the court in the next game on saturday.
Ceskovic started to play basketball in Zagreb with Zrinjevac. He played already in Slovenia for Koper and Helios, in Bosnia for Siroki. He started this season in Greece with Kolossos, where he played 9 games. He averaged 1.1 points, 0.3 rebounds and 0.35 assists in 7 minutes per game.

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IBL

Snohomish County Explosion to host IBL's West Region Playoff -by Trask Frost
Monroe WA— Snohomish County Explosion General Manager, Brad Sturlaugson, has announced that the Explosion will host the IBL West Region Playoffs June 27-29, at the Monroe Sports Arena.

The weekend will consist of the ‘Best of the West' all-star game, Slam Dunk Contest, 3-Point Shootout, and the crowning of the West Region Champion. The winner of the three day tournament will face the IBL East Region Champion for the 2008 IBL Championship.

'This playoff will bring in the top IBL teams from all around the western half of the United States,' said Sturlaugson. 'We are very proud of being awarded this opportunity, and it speaks highly of the respect this organization has earned in a short period of time, regarding our ability to produce a top notch event. This event will have a significant financial impact on the greater Monroe area with players and fans converging from around the country. As always, fans will be treated to some of the best talent playing professional basketball in the area, with many former and aspiring NBA players participating in the 3 day event. We anticipate huge crowds and great entertainment. It will be a lot of fun.'

IBL Commissioner Mikal Duilio—'Last year, even though it was their first season, the Explosion clearly produced one of the best game day experiences for their fans in the entire league. We are thrilled to have them host this event.'

The Snohomish County Explosion begin defense of their IBL West Division Title on March 1. Single game tickets, Season Packages, and 5-Game FLEX Passes on our sale now. For tickets call Explosion Director of Ticketing Zack Mennie at 425-339-BALL (2255)

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ICELAND

Division 1 results -by Siggi Hjorleifsson
Haukar 74 Breidablik 81
Marel Gudlaugsson 14. Sigurdur Einarsson 13. for Haukar.
Thor 80 Valur 89. Tom Port 36 + 10 rebs.Hallgrimur Brynjolfsson 15 for Thor. Craig Walls 23. Jason Harden 15. Ragnar Gylfason 14 for Valur.

Thursday games. -by Siggi Hjorleifsson
Fjolnir finally won a game when they beat the other team on the bottom of the league Hamar 77-74. Kristinn Jonasson. Anthony Drejaj & Karlton Mims (188-G-80, college: Washburn) all with 19 points for Fjolnir. For Hamar Roman Moniak 21. Svavar Palsson 16. Nicholas King 15.

Thor 72. Keflavik 88. Bad last quarter gave the game away for Thor when they only score 10 pts against 27. Luka Marolt 28. Cedric Isom 17. Magnus Helgason 15 for Thor. Tommy Johnson24. Bobby Walker 19. Magnus Gunnarsson 16 for Keflavik.

IR 90. Njardvik 86.Njardvik leading at halftime by 11 pts. Good second half from IR gave them a good win. Nate Brown & Hreggvidur Magnusson 24 each Eirikur Onundarson16 for IR. Damon Bailey 30. Brenton Birmingham 15. Fridrik Stefansson 14 for Njardvik.

Snaefell 83 KR 92. Snaefell been on a run but KR on loosing streak. Snaefell leading by 4 at halftime but KR much stronger in second half. Sigurdur Thorvaldsson 21. Hlynur Baeringsson20 + 17 rebs. Justin Shouse 15 for Snaefell. Joshua Helm 24. Palmi Sigurgeirsson 21. Helgi Magnusson 16 Avi Fogel 14 for KR.

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JAPAN

Walter Brown-Matsushima out for the rest of the season -by Kenny
The Mitsubishi Diamond Dolphins, who currently sit in 4th place in the JBL with a 12-11 record, suffered a big loss when it was determined that F Walter Brown-Matsushima (200-F-75, college: Boston U.)'s ailing back will keep him out for the rest of the season. Brown-Matsushima, the naturalized Japanese citizen who played collegiately in the U.S. at Boston University, has been suffering from an apparent virus in his spine and has been out of action since mid-December. Mitsubishi, the JBL Finals runner-up last season, will need their imports, F Johnny Taylor and C Jerald Honeycutt, to step up and pick up the slack if they are to advance to the JBL Finals once again this season.

Notes: The deadline to add new imports to the roster has passed, so with 12 games remaining in the JBL regular season, all the rosters are set and will not change from this point on.

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JORDAN

Zain beats Sagesse, To wait Al Jalaa in Semis of Dubai!! -by Mohammed Malas
Sagesse of Lebanon were the last victims of Zain in Quarter Finals 19th Dubai International Tournament (18-26 January) after loosing by 8 points 79-87, Jordan's champions will be back to meet Al Jalaa Aleppo again after the syrians win over Gezira from Egypt in another game in the quarters, In the other side of semis, Al Riyadi from Lebanon will play against Saba Battery of Iran.

Zain's players played a big game esspecially from the 1st lineup roster: Sam Daghlas (197-G-79, college: Midwestern St.) (9 assists!!), Rasheim Wright (18 points), Nate Johnson (21 points), Zaid Al Khas and Jonathan Jones (19 points) despite the good performance from Saba Khoury, Rony Fahed and Micah Brand from the lebanese corner.

Jalaa and Zain's game will be live on Dubai Sports Channel at 9 PM UAE time (+4 GMT).

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KOSOVO

Mabetex Super League Schedule -by Edona Shabani

The schedule looks like this:

SIGAL PRISHTINA - AS PRISHTINA, Saturday on 20,00
Referees: Zaim Zenuni, Isa Prebreza, Atdhe Gocaj
Monitors: Agim Visoka

PEJA - TREPCA, Saturday on 19,00
Referees: Arben Elshani, Faton Kurshumliu, Alban Vula
Monitors: Lulzim Maloku

BAMBI - RC COLA DRITA, Saturday on 18,00
Referees: Hektor Grezda, Vllaznim Rraci, Xhavit Beqiri
Monitors: Blerim Vula

KASTRIOTI - KOSOVA, Sunday on 18,00
Referees: Hajredin Zeka, Arbnor Rifati, Urim Hasani
Monitors: Tafil Hoxha


source: www.basketbolli.com



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KUWAIT

Results in Kuwait -by Ali Ahmed

First round in stage 2:

Result in kuwait:


Kuwait (96) - Al Yarmook (74)
Al Arabi (93) - Al Tadamon (82)

An Nasr (55) - Al Jahraa (80).

Kazma (81) - Al Sahel (69)



Standing:

1) Kuwait

2) Al Jahraa

3) Al Arabi

4) Al Qadsia



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LEBANON

Al-Riyadi shines against UAE's NT and proceeds to the semi-final to face Saba ... again! -by Wael Yaman
Al-Riyadi players, specifically the non-starters, shined today in their game against the UAE's national team and beat then by 24 pts (106-82). Fouad Abou Chakra, who started the game with the usual line up of Ismail Ahmad, Ali Mahmoud, Fadi al Khatib (17 pts), Joe Vogel and Scotty Thurman (21 pts, 5 three pointers), soon realized that the game with going to be an easy one as with his team leading at Q1 (29-17) thanks to deadly shots from behind the arc by Khatib, Thurman, and Ahmad. Abou Chakra made a very wise decision of pulling out his key players and relying on his back-up players to continue the game against the Emirati team, especially that his starters will face one hell of a challenge in the semi-final game tomorrow against Saba Iran (at 5 p.m. Beirut time)

Damon King (16 pts), Mazen Mneimneh, Hussein Tawbi, and Ali Fakhreddine had the biggest role in the remaining three quarters and were up to the challenge. Ali Fakhreddine and Hussein Tawbi formed an excellent duo in the paint with an outstanding performance on their part (Tawbi 18 rebounds and 8 points and Fakhreddine 20 points 10 rebounds). Mazen Mneimneh was no less of a star. Even Abdallah Hijazi, Rami Akiki and Mohamad Hamdar had the opportunity to participate in the game, whose 4 quarters ended for the champions of Lebanon (29-17), (59-36), (85-55), and (106-82).

With that win, Al-Riyadi will have to face Saba Iran once again this time in the semi-final stage to be held tomorrow Friday at 5 p.m. Beirut time. Saba Iran had previously lost to Riyadi in the first stage (82-77) in a tough game, and will be seeking revenge. Riyadi, on the other hand, will need to be determined and focused to qualify to the final game of Dubai International Tournament.

On the other side of the semi-final, Zain Jordan and Al Jalaa Syria Iran will face each other (again) tomorrow. Zain qualified to the semi-final after beating Sagesse from Lebanon (87-79), while Al Jalaa won over Al Jazeera Egypt (82-70). Al Jalaa and Zain met in the first round and the Syrians had the upper hand (83-59).

By Mohamad Ali Yatim

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LIGA AMERICAS

Miami defeats Santurce -by Gianni Pascucci
The Miami Tropics destroyed the Cangrejeros de Santurce, 91-64 in Game 2 of Liga de las Americas Quarterfinals, and this series too needs of a third game, that will be played tomorrow, Friday 25. Scoring 23 points, Marcus Barnes (188-G-81, college: Northeastern) led the way in the Tropics, Jermaine Watson (193-G-81, college: Boston Coll.) added 21 pts and Cornelius Mitchell (180-G-82, agency: Worldwide Hoops, college: Charleston) 18 points and 7 assists. The Cangrejeros were very disappointing in the outside shooting (0/7 from behing the 3pts arc) and all the team played under the usual level. The best performer was Robert Traylor (204-F/C-77, college: Michigan), with 14 pts and 9 rebs.

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LITHUANIA

Nielsen is injured again -by Simas Baranauskas
Matthew Nielsen of Lietuvos Rytas is injured again. In yesterdays win against Unicaja the Australian left the court in the start of the third quater and didn't show up later. And as we know now - not without a reason: he has problems with achilles tendon and will miss the action for 4-6 weeks.

Lietuvos Rytas clinches the top spot in Group B -by Eurobasket News
Lietuvos Rytas - Unicaja 71:63

The situation in Group B of Euroleague regular season got a bit clear with Lietuvos Rytas claiming a win over Unicaja yesterday. They now improved to 10-3 record and would have an advantage over Maccabi if tied after 14 rounds. Maccabi will play their Round 13 encounter later today. Unicaja meanwhile slipped to 9-4 record and lost the chances of occupying the top spot in the group. The hosts took over right from the start with a pair of three-pointers from Matt Nielsen (208-F/C-78) and Mindaugas Lukauskis (198-G-79). Lietuvos Rytas continued to dominate and soon piled up a 17:7 lead. Hollis Price (186-G-79, college: Oklahoma) connected from afar minutes later for a 22:11 advantage. Marcus Haislip (207-F-80, college: Tennessee) and Davor Kus (190-G-78) nailed 4 free throws in the dying seconds of the first frame and Unicaja trailed by 7 points after 10 minutes. Spanish team stepped on the gas in the second frame with Carlos Jimenez (203-F-76) and N'Dong nailing straight buckets to erase the deficit. Bernardo Rodriguez (197-F/G-80) put the visitors as close as 2 points midway through the quarter but Lietuvos Rytas reacted. Arturas Jomantas (202-G/F-85) and Martynas Gecevicius (193-G-88) teamed up for 7 points and the hosts restored a double-figure lead. Rytas were up by 13 points at halftime 41:28. Unicaja stayed competitive in the third stanza with N'Dong and Marcus Haislip dominating the paint. They produced some impressive dunks and the visitors climbed within 3 points from Lietuvos Rytas. Jiri Welsch (200-F-80) made it even thinner with free throws. Hollis Price then converted 6 points for Rytas and the gap was enlarged to 7 points after three terms. Carlos Cabezas (186-G-80) hit from downtown to keep the intrigue alive. The hosts were in front by 4 points when Hollis Price sank another jumper as Lietuvos Rytas entered the final two minutes leading by 6 points. Marcus Haislip scored but was well-matched by Kenan Bajramovic (206-F-81, agency: Beo Basket) with under a minute left. Hollis Price made the outcome clear with a steal and a three-point play completed with second remaining in regulation.
Hollis Price tallied 23 points and 6 assists for Lietuvos Rytas. Marijonas Petravicius (207-F/C-79, college: S.Carolina) and Martynas Gecevicius added 11 points apiece in a win. Marcus Haislip answered with 22 points for Unicaja. N'Dong finished with 16 points in defeat. Unicaja will wrap up their regular season action against Efes Pilsen. Lietuvos Rytas will visit Cibona next week.

Lietuvos Rytas: Hollis Price 23, Marijonas Petravicius 11, Martynas Gecevicius 11
Unicaja: Marcus Haislip 22, N'Dong 16

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MEXICO

Fuerza Guinda de Nogales has new coach -by Alejandro Martinez
Fuerza Guinda de Nogales has announced the hiring of Nathan Mott as head coach for the 2008 campaign. Mott is currently serving as assistant to Algodoneros de Torreon in the LNBP. He has served as assistant in the LNBP for four seasons and has coached at the high school level in the US. In addition, Mott has served as scout and has organized several basketball clinics. Mott replaces Javier Diaz Castroverde who guided Nogales to the playoffs last season.

Tijuana Galgos take game 1 -by Carlos Chapa
The Tijuana Galgos took the first duel of the Northern Conference against Fuerza Regia Monterrey.
Tijuana started the first quarter with a 35 to 11 advantage over the Regios, making 7 three-pointers. But Fuerza Regia Monterrey wasn't done, coach Jose Martinez formed a defensive triangle, which consisted of Felipe Sanchez (202-F/C-74), Santiago Aguirre (203-C-85, college: Westmont), and Fernando Del Angel (195-G/F-75), and resulted in 9 turnovers for the Galgos, tight defense, and some key rebounds; this defense won Monterrey the 3 remaining quarters (23-25) (16-25) (17-26).

The game was on the line with :25 seconds left in the last quarter, when Omar Quintero (183-G-81, agency: Paris Global Sports, college: S.Nazarene) did hit a three-pointer to put the game in favor of Tijuana 90-87 (the smallest lead since 3-0), the action continued and Miguel Vargas was fouled, he missed both tree throws, and Fuerza Regia Monterrey ended with the ball with :5 ticks left; Monty Wilson (197-F-73, agency: Edge Sports, college: Tennessee St.) took the prayer desperate three-point shot, -with a wide open Gerald Williams (190-G-68, college: New Orleans) yelling for the ball-, the shot was missed, and the final score was 91 to 87 Galgos de Tijuana.

Omar Quintero leaded all scorers with 31 points followed by Franco Harris (183-G, college: Boise St.) and Gerald Williams, both with 24.
Santiago Aguirre finished with 4 assists.

Next game is today at the Arena Monterrey.

LICOMUBA Standings -by Charles Elwes

After the first week of the season the top teams in the league are
Faraones Nvo Casas Grandes , Mineros Parral and Dorados Chihuahua
these three teams have a record of 2 wins 0 losses. Nogaleros Jimenez and
Choriceros Camargo follow with 1 win and 1 loss and the last three teams in the table
have 0 wins and 2 losses Indios UACJ , Queseros Saucillo and Liebres ITCJ.


Tomorrow action its the next:

Choriceros Camargo at Indios UACJ

Queseros Saucillo at Liebres ICTJ

Dorados Chihuahua at Mineros Parral

Faraones Nvo. Casas Grandes at Nogaleros Jimenez


Saturday action continues with:

Queseros Saucillo at Indios UACJ

Choriceros Camargo at Liebres ICTJ

Faraones Nvo. Casas Grandes at Mineros Parral

Dorados Chihuahua at Nogaleros Jimenez.


The games to follow friday night Faraones versus Nogaleros .

and saturday the same Faraones versus Parral. Note the city of Cd. Juarez will

have two days with the action of both teams Indios and Liebres of the LICOMUBA the same

days and hours that will affect the fans to wonder what game to go see. Plus they have staurday

and sunday action of the TPBL with Gallos who face the Midland Heat .




Soles in Final Four of LOA, LNBP Playoffs Begin Tonight -by Justin Brink

It was revenge and then some. After falling to the Halcones in game one of the Fiba League of the Americas quarter finals, the Soles roared back to win game two and convincingly took care of Xalapa in game three, 84-67. Mexicali will be the LNBP's lone representative in the LOA semi finals which will open on February 8th. No seed has been determined yet. Greg Lewis (198-F-78, college: Winthrop) led the Sole offensive attack with 20 points and 6 boards while point man De Juan Wheat (183-G-73, college: Louisville) dropped 20 while Horacio Llamas (211-C-73, agency: Interperformances) tallied 19 and 12. Michael Johnson (191-G) led Xalapa with 23. Both teams open their LNBP post season schedule tonight with Xalapa facing the Panteras and the Soles taking on the Dorados. The rest of the LNBP playoff match ups look like this:
Algodoneros at Lobos Grises
Galgos at Fuerza Regia
Correcaminos of Victoria at Santos
Lechugueros at Halcones of Cordoba
Caballeros at Tecos
Pioneros at Halcones Rojos

For commentary and analysis for the LNBP playoffs, feel free to comment by clicking here.



Gallos road in The TPBL -by Charles Elwes

Last saturday Gallos Cd.Juarez went to San Angelo Texas to face the Chaparrals in action of
Texas Professional Basketball League (TPBL) and won the game that same day by a score of 111 to 74
to a Chaparral team who looked disorganized and out of shape.The top players for the Juarez squad

where El Paso native Toraino Johnson (194-F/G-80, college: Utah St.) had 25 pts , follow by the ' rubber man'

Leonard Owens (198-F, college: UTEP) with 24 pts.


In sunday game the Chaparrals dint have a gym where

to play. Yes no home for the San Angelo team. Now the Gallos have 4 wins and 0 losses and up next

fot the Mexican team is the Midland Heat actual champion of the TPBL the games will be in Cd. Juarez

saturday at 7:30 and sunday at 3 pm at Gimnasio Universitario.


Coach Raul Palma will now havea clear idea of how really its the level of the league versus the Midland Heat

and said ' The Chaparrals dint expect a Gallos team with that level and plus they were a little disorganized

plus our defense was a key spot , to win saturdays game.'



CIBACOPA: Pioneros de los Mochis signings -by Alejandro Martinez
After a dissapointing 2007 season, Pioneros de los Mochis has announced the hiring of head coach Alejandro Hasbani for the 2008 season. Hasbani, who is from Argentina, has experience in CIBACOPA, having won the championship in 2004 with Frayles de Guasave. In addition, the team announced the return of national team member Arim Abdul Solares (202-F/C-83)r as their national player. Solares is currently disputing the playoffs at the LNBP with Santos de San Luis.

CIBACOPA: Fuerza Guinda de Nogales signs pair of Americans -by Alejandro Martinez
Fuerza Guinda de Nogales has agreed to terms with Letheal Cook (208-C/F-80, college: Bowie St.) and Tony Stockman (186-G-81, college: Ohio St.)for the upcoming 2008 season. Cook is currently disputing the playoffs at the LNBP with Torreon and Stockman just finished his season with the Venados de Nuevo Laredo. Nogales is looking to add a third import and a National player. Among the ones being considered for this positions are Noah Brown, who was Fuerza Guinda's leading scorer in 2007 and Nogales native Omar Quintero.

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NAIA

Xavier Gives LSUS First Loss of the Season -by Brandon Woudstra
Mark Stewart scored four points in the final minute of overtime Wednesday to help NAIA No. 18 Xavier University of Louisiana rally for a 75-72 Gulf Coast Athletic Conference men's basketball victory over No. 3 LSU-Shreveport. Alfred Williams scored a career-high 21 points, and Kelechi Okoroha had 20 for the Gold Rush (15-4 overall, 5-2 GCAC), which gave LSUS (17-1, 6-1) its first loss of the season.

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NBA

Toronto shoots down Boston on the road -by Eurobasket News
The Toronto Raptors had somewhat a magic touch yesterday when they converted 58% from the field, including 71% from beyond the arc, and 100% from free throw line to stun the league's best Celtics 114:112 at the Banknorth Garden. Jose Manuel Calderon (6'3''-G-81) played a major role in all this shooting dropping 24 points and issuing 13 assists to pace the Raptors. His scoring tally included a three-point play with 10 seconds left in regulation that put Toronto up for good. Chris Bosh (6'11''-F-84, college: Georgia Tech) and Anthony Parker (6'5''-G/F-75, college: Bradley) went for 23 points apiece to snap a 3-game winning streak of Boston. Kevin Garnett (6'10''-F-76) responded with 26 points for the Celtics who suffered just the 7th loss in the season.
Meanwhile Kirk Hinrich (6'3''-G-81, agency: Octagon, college: Kansas) notched a career-high 38 points as the Chicago Bulls dominated the Indiana Pacers 108:95 at home court. The Bulls entered the game with two major losses. Luol Deng (6'7''-F-85, college: Duke) was reported to miss at least one week with the problems with his Achilles' tendinitis. Ben Gordon (6'2''-G-83, college: Connecticut) was also sidelined with a sprained right wrist. But the Bulls found a go-to guy in Kirk Hinrich. The guard sank 14/21 field goals, dished out 10 assists and collected 7 boards in a win. The Bulls built a 57:43 lead at halftime and completed the task after the break. Andres Nocioni (6'7''-F-79) provided help with 24 points and 7 boards in a win. Danny Granger (6'8''-F-83, agency: Priority Sports, college: N.Mexico) dropped 33 points for Indiana. The Pacers missed Jermaine O'Neal (6'11''-F-78) and Troy Murphy (6'10''-F-80, college: Notre Dame) on the squad. Jermaine O'Neal will miss at least two more weeks with a bruised left knee.
Tracy McGrady (6'8''-G/F-79) meanwhile crafted the win for the Houston Rockets. He came off the bench to score 18 points in the second half and helped the Rockets to edge the Seattle Supersonics 109:107 in a dramatic battle at the Key Arena. McGrady also fed Rafer Alston (6'2''-G-76, college: Fresno St.) for a trey that put the visitors ahead by 4 points with 16 seconds left in regulation and Seattle never recovered. Seattle suffered their 12th straight loss despite 25 points from rookie Kevin Durant (6'9''-G/F-88, college: Texas). Tracy McGrady finished with game-high 28 points, while Ming Yao (7'5''-C-80) contributed 26 points, 12 boards and 6 assists in the 23rd win for Houston in the season.

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NIGERIA

CAN '09: NBBF picks Lagos, Abuja, Kano -by Olusegun Ikuesan
The Nigeria Basketball Federation (NBBF) has picked Lagos and Kano as host cities for the 2009 FIBA Africa Nations Championship for Men which the country has been given the right to host by the continental body, FIBA Africa.

Technical Director of the Nigeria federation Adamu Ahmed said that the two cities were chosen ahead of several others because of what the venues offered.

'The facilities are okay especially Abuja and we are already upgrading Lagos. But aside from the facilities these two centres can best be managed in every way with Lagos having very good basketball following,' Adamu said.

Apart from the two centres Bauchi and Kano - both places with basketball clubs and culture are on standby should there be any need to move up to four venues instead of two. FIBA Africa gave Nigeria the option of using two or four centres. All four centres have played host to major basketball competitions in the past.

February 29th, 2009 has been fixed as the date for the draw and will hold at the Ladi Kwali Hall of the Abuja Sheraton Hotel while the competition itself will hold from August 18th to 31st.

An NBBF team of the Technical Director and Secretary General Francis Gbiri are billed to be in Cairo, Egypt to defend their details before the FIBA Africa Central Board which will meet in Cairo on the 25th and 26th. Nigeria has hosted all continental basketball competitions and in the last five years hosted the All Africa Games, the FIBA Africa Women Championship (2005 in Abuja) and club champions cup for men in 2006 in Lagos

www.fiba-afrique.org

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PARAGUAY

Pilar League ends regular season -by Gianni Pascucci
The teams Club Social y Deportivo Obrero, 1 de Mayo, Asociacion de Fomento Crucecita and America Pilar Basquet Club advanced to the Final Tournment, named 'Quadrangolar', that is expected to be very balanced. The last game of the season, the delayed one between America and Crucecita, willl be played tomorrow, Friday 25. There could be again a change in the table, following the appeal against Deportivo Obrero made by 1° de Mayo, at present the classification is as follows:
STANDINGS
Deportivo Obrero 20,
1º de Mayo 17,
America 15,
Crucecita 13,
Capitan Bado 11,
General Diaz 10.

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PBL

Jacksonville team yet unpaid -by Gianni Pascucci

Local media www.jacksonville.com published yesterday a piece in which Jacksonville Jam coach Mike Sr. Gillespie admitted he and his team haven't been paid yet, and said the coaches and players are 'still working with ownership toward a resolution to continue the Premier Basketball League season'. Rumors from the league headquarters say that the team owners have yet passed the deadline given by the league to make the money necessary to pay players, coaches and staff. And money was not found. At this point, the future of the team is in serious jeopardy, and is not sure if league is going to do anything with the team or not.



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PUERTO RICO

Boricuas Abroad -by Alessandro Fontana

BORICUAS ABROAD
In NBA, Orlando defeated Memphis 112-85, for Carlos Arroyo a great game, He played 24 minutes with 3 pts (0/2 2pts, 1/3 3pts) with 7 assists and 2 steals. Dallas won against Charlotte 102-95, Jose Juan Barea played only 3 minutes with 0 pts. Guillermo Diaz played 4 minutes with 1 pts (1/2 FT) in the game Los Angeles Clippers- Sacramento Kings 111-85.
In D-League, Albuquerque won a difficult game against Rio Grande Valley 95-93, the MVP of the game was Miguel Ali Berdiel who played 42 minutes and He scored 26 pts (8/11 2pts, 2/2 3pts, 4/5 FT) with 6 rebs, 5 assts and 1 steal. Berdiel is playing a great season in NBDL with 8,6 ppg.
In Euroleague, Cibona Zagreb was defeated by Le Mans 100-87. Larry Ayuso played 30 minutes with 10 pts (2/3 2pts, 2/6 3pts) and 2 rebs. Cibona has now a 4-9 standings and it is not more so sure to be qualified in the Top 16. Unicaja Malaga was defeated by Lietuvos Rytas 71-63. Daniel Santiago played 8 minutes with 1 reb. Malaga has now a 9-4 standings.

A. Fontana



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RUSSIA

CSKA confident against Tau in Moscow -by Eurobasket News
CSKA - Tau 70:62

Group A leaders CSKA gained their 11th win in the Euroleague season and sealed the top spot yesterday. They hosted Tau in a new Palace of Sports Khodynka. CSKA never disappointed a sell-out crowd of 13,000. Scottie Pippen, Sergei Panov and Sergei Bazarevich were among the guests on the game. J.R. Holden (185-G-76, college: Bucknell) and David Andersen (212-C-80) did not wait for too long to take it off for CSKA with back-to-back triples. Trajan Langdon (192-G-76, college: Duke) added 5 straight points to set CSKA ahead at 11:2. However Igor Rakocevic (191-G-78) stepped for Spanish side with a couple of difficult baskets and Tau cut the gap to 15:9. Igor Rakocevic went on scoring and Mirza Teletovic (205-F-85, agency: Beo Basket) scored a jumper to ignite a 7:0 run for the visitors as they grabbed a 16:15 advantage. David Andersen capped the first frame with 4 points and the hosts led 19:16 after 10 minutes of action. The teams traded the baskets in the second quarter and were tied at 29 before Marcus Goree (201-F-77, college: W.Virginia) and Pashutin combined for 5 consecutive points to give CSKA a 34:29 cushion at the interval. J.R. Holden and Ramunas Siskauskas (197-G-78) fired from downtown early in the third term as the home side opened up a 10-point lead. J.R. Holden was deadly from the field as his trey marked a 15-point lead for CSKA. Pablo Prigioni (186-G-77) and Anatoly Kashirov (215-C-87, agency: Court Side) exchanged three-pointers to wrap up the action in the third period with CSKA leading by 14 points. Tiago Splitter (211-C/F-85, agency: Interperformances) and Igor Rakocevic got Tau going in the fourth with back-to-back jumpers but J.R. Holden quickly matched them with another massive treble to restore the safe distance. Sergi Vidal (198-F/G-81) and Mouneke exploded with two more treys for Tau as they trimmed the difference to 9 points. Tiago Splitter and Igor Rakocevic erased the gap to just 5 points over 2 minutes left. But J.R. Holden refused to give up the lead with yet another three-pointer to give CSKA a breathing space.
J.R. Holden finished the game with 19 points to pace CSKA. Trajan Langdon added 13 points, while Ramunas Siskauskas had 9 points and 5 boards for the winners. Igor Rakocevic answered with 21 points for Tau. Tiago Splitter notched 12 points as the visitors fell to 8-5 record in the ladder. CSKA will visit Bologna next week. Tau hosts Zalgiris in the final round of regular season.

CSKA: J.R. Holden 19, Trajan Langdon 13, Ramunas Siskauskas 9
Tau: Igor Rakocevic 21, Tiago Splitter 12

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SERBIA

Euroleague - To be or not to be for Partizan Igokea -by Dragan Jankovski
Tonight at 20:45 in Belgrade's hall 'Pionir' reining Serbian and Adriatic league champ, Partizan Igokea, has fantastic chance to reach Euroleague TOP 16. Namely, after Cibona's defeat last night against Le Mans, who made the first win in Euroleague this season, Partizan needs a victory in tonight's game against Brose Basket Bamberg after what black and white team only theoretically won't qualify for TOP 16.

Like always head coach of Partizan Igokea Dusko Vujosevic is wide awake. He warned his players that Bamberg is a pretty good team who doesn't have anything to loose and it is well known that teams are most dangerous in those situations. Vujosevic also praised his team because of their hard work on every practice and every Euroleague and Adriatic league game.

Ostojic returns to Greece, Markovic moves to Ukraine -by Dragan Jankovski
Center Djuro Ostojic (211-C-76, agency: Beo Basket) moved from French Pro A team Gravelines to Panelinios from Athens. Ostojic already has an experience from Greece as he played for PAOK last season. In the past he used to play for Crvena Zvezda, Buducnost, Partizan, Leche Rio Breogan and Besiktas Cola Turka. He won three championship titles (Yugoslavia, Serbia/Montenegro), one National Cup and he also participated on European Championships 2003 and Olympic Games in Athens 2004 with NT of Serbia and Montenegro.

Experienced small forward Miroslav Markovic (201-F-75, agency: Beo Basket) left Adriatic league participant BC Vojvodina Srbijagas and immediately joined Ukrainian Superleague team Cherkassy Monkeys, whose head coach is Jovica Arsic ex Markovic's coach from Lavovi 063 and Zdravlje.

President of Vojvodina Srbijagas Marko Krstin stepped down due to not so good financial situation in the club.

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SLOVENIA

Euroleague: Union Olimpija wins Virtus Bologna 75:60 -by Matej Bergant

Union Olimpija won their last home game in this season's Euroleague vs. Virtus Bologna 75:60. Olimpija was better team for most part of the game and led from the beginning. The best player on court was Marko Milic (199-G-77) with 20 points, while Jasmin Hukic (204-G/F-79, agency: Beo Basket) added 15. Dewarick Spencer (193-G-82, agency: Higher Vision Sports, college: Arkansas St.) led Virtus Bologna with 14 points. Next and final game of this season's Euroleague for Union Olimpija (they didn't qualify for the TOP16 of Euroleague) will be played next week in Sopot (Poland) vs. Prokom Trefl.

Union Olimpija : Virtus Bologna 75:60 (58:47, 43:32, 19:13)

Union Olimpija: Milic 20, Hukic 15, Bailey 13, Dragic 10, Begic 6, Gorenc 4, Booker 4, Rizvic 3.

Virtus Bologna: Spencer 14, Giovannoni 8, Lastini 8, McGrath 8, Michelori 7, Chiacig 5, Garri 5, Di Bella 4, Crosiarol 1.



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SPAIN

Potapenko: location unknown -by Robert Mayor
Nobody knows where Vitaly Potapenko (208-C/F-75, agency: Priority Sports, college: Wright St.) is. The center, whom signed a few weeks ago with MMT Estudiantes, has missed several trainning sessions and is not living in his Madrid apartment.

Potapenko has averaged 5.3 points and 2.7 rebounds in the six games that he's played with capital team. MMT Estudiantes, announced today that the Ukrainian center is not a club player anymore and will try to sign a substitute.

Pete Mickeal, out again for 10-15 days -by Natxo Mendaza
TAU Ceramica forward Pete Mickeal (198-F-78, college: Cincinnati) will have to rest for a two-weeks period after getting injured during the game against CSKA in Moscow on Wednesday afternoon. Mickeal, who spent last 3 weeks sidelined due to a muscular tear on his right thigh, came back to Euroleague action this week but couldn't stay more than two minutes on court after feeling pain on his left calf muscle. After medical examinations were performed, the diagnosis has been a muscle tear that will prevent Mickeal from playing for a short period of 10-15 days. Thus, Mickeal will miss next Euroleague game against Zalgiris Kaunas and is doubtful for the upcoming Spanish King's Cup, which will be held in Vitoria on February 7-10.

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TANZANIA

Vijana labour for Super Cup -by Carlos Pereira
Dar es Salaam regional basketball champions, Vijana 'City Bulls' have embarked on strategies to reclaim Kili Super Cup title which they lost to Oilers in the 2006 league season.
The team's head coach Bahati Mgunda told Sunday Citizen yesterday that he has doubled the training to give extra drilling time to his youthful players.
'We have a number of young players who need sufficient training to withstand energetic play of Savio and JKT. I have to work more on the physical rather than technical aspect which I have thoroughly worked on prior to the Kili RBA League,' said Mgunda who was last week crowned the best basketball coach this season.
Mgunda, who changed the team's playstyle from individual showmanship to team work basis, said he was impressed with the way his team play at the moment.
He said the newly-recruited players such as Salum Mchemba and Alphonce Kusekwa have managed to form formidable playing partnership with experienced players such as Mohamed Alli Dibo, Jacob Marenga and John Mcharo.
Mgunda said clinching Kili RBA title was just the beginning of the four title chase his team planned in the 2008 basketball season.
'After Kili Super Cup, our next focus will be the National Basketball League (NBL) which will be held in Tanga and later Union Cup whose venue is not yet to be disclosed,' said the coach.
Vijana clinched the Kili Super Cup in 2004, but lost it to Oilers in 2005. JKT who won the event in 2006 are the defending champions.

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U.S.VIRGIN ISL.

William & Mary breaks Philly jinx with win over Drexel -by David Edole
It isn't as if those affiliated with the College of William & Mary haven't had great moments on the court. Unfortunately for the Tribe, most of those more recently belong to Chancellor Sandra Day O'Connor, the retired Supreme Court Justice.
There was an upset of fourth-ranked West Virginia and Jerry West on Jan. 30, 1960. And, of course, that shocker over No. 2 North Carolina on Dec. 7, 1977.

In the 31 years since William & Mary slew the mighty Tar Heels, the school has had 22 losing seasons and won as many as 20 games just once, during the 1982-83 season.

But progress is where you find it, and the Tribe took another step toward respectability last night by beating Drexel, 73-72, at the Daskalakis Athletic Center.

Not only was it the sixth straight Colonial Athletic Association victory for William & Mary, but it was its first ever in Philadelphia. The Tribe (10-8, 6-2) had entered with a 3-14 all-time record against the Dragons (9-11, 2-6), including all eight games played on Drexel's home floor.

'I heard that on the way down here [to the postgame press conference],' William & Mary coach Tony Shaver said of the ending of the Philly jinx. 'In the last year-and-a-half, this team has had a lot of firsts. We'll ride that wave as long as we can.'

For Drexel coach Bruiser Flint, however, the tide continues to be go out. Although the Dragons easily had the best player on the floor in senior center Frank Elegar (206-C-86), who posted game highs of 24 points and 15 rebounds, along with two blocked shots, he drew more defensive attention in the low post than Lindsay Lohan in a sea of paparazzi. The Tribe could count itself fortunate that Elegar could only shake loose often to squeeze off eight field-goal attempts, and several of those came on offensive rebounds when he created his own openings.

'The guy is rangy and he's long,' Shaver said of his strategy of surrounding Elegar and daring any other Dragon to beat his team. 'We wanted to keep it out of his hands as much as possible. When he did catch it, we wanted to keep him off the block as much as possible.'

That plan was never more evident than on Drexel's final possession in overtime, when the Dragons called time twice in the last 8.4 seconds to set up something for Elegar. But he never got the ball, and Tramayne Hawkins' long, long three-pointer at the buzzer clanged harmlessly off the rim.

Flint said one William & Mary defender fell during the climactic sequence, but the Dragons couldn't pull the trigger.

'This game is all about finishing,' said Flint, whose team has had difficulty closing the show in crunch time. 'We've lost six games in this league. Two, we got blown out. The other four, we didn't finish well.

'Tonight we get into overtime and we go 1-for-4 from the foul line to start. We missed a driving layup.

'We're actually playing better. We're not winning, but we're playing better. But you can't be afraid to jump in the pool. I've been telling my team that all year. Don't be a guy who just sticks his foot in the water to see what the temperature is. Don't be afraid to be the goat.'

Subtract Elegar's 8-for-12 from the field and the rest of the Dragons combined to go 16-for-43 (37.2 percent). Even that might have been good enough to pull out a win, especially when you take into account William & Mary's 26 turnovers, but the smaller, less physical Tribe somehow managed to win the rebounding battle, 30-28, in addition to swishing 14 of 26 treys. Guard Nathan Mann (18 points) and forward Laimis Kisielius (14) combined to go 10-for-15 from beyond the arc.

'We live and die by the three a little bit,' Shaver said. 'We're not as big and strong as some teams, so we need to shoot the ball well.'

By BERNARD FERNANDEZ
Philadelphia Daily News

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UAE

Quarter finals of 19th Dubai Int'l Tournament (18-26 January) -by Mohammed Malas
Saba Battery (IRI) 100 - Mahram (IRI) 64
- MVP: Garth Joseph (Saba)

Zain (JOR) 87 - Sagesse (LEB) 79
- MVP: Jonathan Jones (Zain)

Al Riyadi (LEB) 106 - UAE NT 82
- MVP: Ali Fakherdine (Al Riyadi)

Al Jalaa (SYR) 82 - Gezira (EGY) 70
- MVP: Michel Madanli (196-G-81, agency: Huss Sport Agency) (Al Jalaa)

# Semi-Finals and Positions from 5 to 8th games UAE time (+4 GMT):
- Friday: 25/1:

* Positions 4th to 8th games:
15:00 Gezira - Sagesse
17:00 UAE NT - Mahram

* Semi-Finals:
19:00 Al Riyadi - Saba Battery
21:00 Zain - Al Jalaa



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Women News

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ADRIATIC L. (W) - Women

Komplet to undergo knee surgery -by Zeljko Zule
Slovenian NT member Eva Komplet (182-F/C-86) of Merkur Celje will undergo knee surgery and will be lost to the team for the remainder of the season. She tore the ligament on the final's game of Slovenian Cup. Komplet averaged 30,9 minutes, 10,0 points (2P 37-69, 3P 3-16, FT 21-32), 4,1 rebounds, 1,4 assists, 0,9 steals and 2,1 turnovers in 9 games of Adriatic WABA League and 21,5 minutes, 11,6 points (2P 34-56, 3P 4-14, FT 13-116), 5,4 rebounds, 1,3 assists, 1,6 steals, 0,3 blocks nad 3,0 turnovers in 8 games of Slovenian League.

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CROATIA - Women

Jolly Sibenik loses once again in Euroleague -by Eurobasket News
USK Praha - Jolly Sibenik 69:59

The count stopped at 7 for Jolly Sibenik's losses at Euroleague qualifying round. Unfortunately for all Croatian team fans it meant Sibenik occupied the last spot in Group B and was eliminated from the tournament. The last defeat came in Prague against USK Praha yesterday. With both teams having wasted the chance to advance it was a battle for dignity only. Jessica Dickson (180-F-84, college: S.Florida) opened the scoring for Sibenik with a jump shot. But the hosts answered with 6 straight points to grab the lead. USK Praha maintained the margin throughout the first quarter and Jessica Dickson's jumper just trimmed the difference to 7 points at the end of it. A bunch of free throws from Tihana Juric (194-C-76) and Luca Ivankovic (201-C-87) allowed Sibenik to come as close as 3 points from USK Praha midway through the second frame. Jannell Burse (197-C-79, college: Tulane) and Lindsay Whalen (173-G-82, college: Minnesota) combined for 6 consecutive points and USK Praha cleared off to an 8-point distance a minute later. Jessica Dickson was once again consistent in the dying stage as she crowned the first half with a jumper and sealed the outcome at 29:34. Ferancikova scored 5 points early in the third period as USK Praha opened up a double-digit lead. Jessica Dickson hit from downtown to cut it back to five points 6 minutes into the quarter but Michaela Hartigova (192-C-83) matched it with her own three-pointer and then knocked down a jumper to make it 53:40 for the home side. Anda Jelavic (173-G-80) and Luca Ivankovic tried hard to cut the gap at the start of the fourth period but USK Praha controlled the tempo and Jannell Burse together with Lindsay Whalen did not allow the visitors to come too close for a decisive strike. Michaela Hartigova and Lindsay Whalen scored 15 points apiece to pace the hosts. Ferancikova drained 14 points in a winning case. Anda Jelavic provided game-high 23 points for Jolly Sibenik. Jessica Dickson registered 12 points in a loss.

USK Praha: Michaela Hartigova 15, Lindsay Whalen 15, Ferancikova 14
Jolly Sibenik: Anda Jelavic 23, Jessica Dickson 12

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CZECH REP. - Women

Gambrinus soars past Dexia -by Eurobasket News
Gambrinus got the mission accomplished as they claimed the 8th win in the Euroleague season and advanced to the eighth-final stage. Yesterday the Czech Republic powerhouse stunned Dexia 93:58 in Belgium to finish at the 2nd spot in Group C. They appeared just one win behind the defending champions Spartak MR. Gambrinus took some time to adjust as Dexia capped the first frame with an 8:0 run and led 22:18 ten minutes into the game. But the visitors put a lock on defense in the second term and started to prove their dominance. Hana Machova (182-F/G-79) hit from afar and Jana Vesela (194-F-83) added 4 straight points to tie the scoreline at 30. Tamika Whitmore then gave Gambrinus a lead before Jana Vesela and Ivana Vecerova (194-C-79) extended it to 6 points from free throw line. Hana Machova once again fired from downtown and Jana Vesela sank a jumper for Gambrinus to open up a double-digit advantage at halftime 43:32. Dexia's defense fell to pieces in the third period, while offense kept mum as Gambrinus stormed to a 64:37 lead after 30 minutes. Czech side just cruised to an overall victory in the fourth period deepening the gap up to 35 points. Timea Beres (192-C-76) scored 18 points to pace Gambrinus. Jana Vesela, Zuzana Zirkova (175-F/G-80) and Hana Machova contributed 14 points apiece for the victors. Jennifer Fleischer (191-C-84, agency: LBM Management, college: Pennsylvania) had 20 points and 10 boards for Dexia. Szymanska-Lara added 15 points in a loss. Gambrinus will take on Hungarian MiZo Pecs in the eighth-final.
Meanwhile USK Praha wrapped up their inglorious performance at the tournament on a high note. They overcame Jolly Sibenik 69:59 in Prague to finish at 3-7 record in the 5th spot in Group B. In a quite close matchup it was the effort of Michaela Hartigova (192-C-83) and Lindsay Whalen (173-G-82, college: Minnesota) that nailed 15 points apiece to play a key role. Jannell Burse (197-C-79, college: Tulane) was helpful with 9 points and 12 boards for the winners. Jolly Sibenik was dropped to the bottom of the ladder despite game-high 23 points from Anda Jelavic (173-G-80). Jessica Dickson (180-F-84, college: S.Florida) had 12 points in a losing clause.

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EUROLEAGUE (W) - Women

TTT Riga loses to Napoli and misses eighth-final -by Eurobasket News
Napoli - TTT Riga 68:65

Napoli collected just their 2nd win in the FIBA Euroleague competition however it was a costly one. Napoli did not allow TTT Riga to advance to the next stage dropping them to 3-7 record in Group A. Latvian team was tied with Villeneuve at 3-6 record before the final round. After the news came from France about Villeneuve winning their battle against Fenerbahce TTT Riga must win to hope for qualification to the next round. But their hopes were crashed by Napoli. It was worked pretty well for TTT Riga early in the game. Ieva Tare (185-F-74) drained two three-pointers in the opening frame and the visitors led 13:10 after 10 minutes of action. Iciss Tillis (194-F-81, college: Duke), Elizaveta Kityzina (194-C-80) and Ieva Tare put their names on the scoring list at the start of the second frame as TTT Riga grabbed a 20:10 lead. Elizaveta Kityzina converted a free throw with just over 3 minutes played in the quarter to give TTT Riga a 25:12 advantage. But Napoli found the right answer as Dorothea Richter (176-G-83) sank a trey and Kedra Holland-Corn (173-G-74) poured in a jumper to clip the margin to 5 points. Ieva Tare completed a three-point play, while Kedra Holland-Corn responded with two free throws to ice it at 27:33 for TTT Riga at the interval. The nervousness affected the game of the visitors as they could not score for almost 4 minutes in the third stanza. Napoli surged ahead on Mauriello's jump shot. Dace Krumina (187-F-69) netted a three-pointer to retain TTT Riga advantage however not for too long. Yasemin Horasan (190-F/C-83) dropped a jumper, while Kedra Holland-Corn fired back-to-back trebles to accumulate a 51:42 cushion for the hosts. Ieva Tare opened the final period with another trey to keep TTT Riga alive. But shortly after Kedra Holland-Corn and Stefania Paterna (180-G/F-80) opened up a double-digit lead for Napoli. TTT Riga searched desperately for the ways to erase the deficit. Patricia Penicheiro (180-G-74, college: ODU) posted 4 straight points and TTT Riga trimmed the margin to 60:64 with just over 2 minutes remaining in regulation. Iciss Tillis knocked down a jump shot and Micaela Jacintho (180-F-79) connected from beyond the arc as Latvian side clinched a 65:62 advantage with 79 seconds on the clock. Yasemin Horasan was deadly from free throw line to reestablish Napoli's lead, while Dace Krumina wasted TTT Riga possession with a bad pass. Kedra Holland-Corn was fouled and got to the line to sink a free throw and extended the gap to 2 points. Micaela Jacintho missed her attempt to tie things up and Kedra Holland-Corn deepened the distance to 3 points. Patricia Penicheiro still had a chance to force overtime but her desperate trey went off mark.
Kedra Holland-Corn accounted for 22 points to lead Napoli. Adia Barnes (180-F-77, college: Arizona) and Yasemin Horasan delivered 13 points apiece for the winners. Dace Krumina topscored with 17 points for TTT Riga. Ieva Tare contributed 15 points in a losing effort.

Napoli: Kedra Holland-Corn 22, Adia Barnes 13, Yasemin Horasan 13
TTT Riga: Dace Krumina 17, Ieva Tare 15