EUROBASKET NEWS REPORT - 10/16/2008

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Men News

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  ABA   


Mississippi Blues invite 12 to training camp - by Gianni Pascucci

The Mississippi Blues released the list of the 12 players invited to team's training camp, scheduled for the second week of November. The Mississippi Blues are in their inaugural season and are ready to challenge teams in the ABA for the title. 'There were a lot of good players that attended the tryout, we couldn't invite every player to training camp. We feel that we have selected the 12 best players that will help us make a title run,' said Demarcus Price part owner of the Mississippi Blues. The season begins December 6th on the road against the Houston Takers. Season tickets are available now. For more info on how to purchase season tickets contact Daniel Price at 601.951.5045 or Demarcus Price at 601.519.9345 or visit the Blues website at http://www.msblueshoops.com
The players list is as follows:
NAME - HOMETOWN HGT WGT (college)
Kevin McCoy - McComb, MS 64' 185 (Tougaloo College)
Ronald Ellis - Vidalia, LA 64' 203 (Grambling State University)
Richard Griffin - Jackson, MS 61' 195 (Alcorn State University)
Sandrell Spann - Jackson, MS 6'7' 276 (Delta State University)
Jason Roberson - West, MS 6'4' 210 (Martin Methodist College)
Ernest Hassell - Jackson, MS 6'6' 215 (Jackson State University)
Jarell Jones - Jackson, MS 6'0' 160 (Pikeville College)
Jonathan Oliver - Detroit, MI 6'3' 195 (Tougaloo College)
Christopher Watson - Edwards, MS 6'6' 210 (Mississippi Valley State University)
Julius Young - Jackson, MS 6'5' 200 (Jackson State University)
Bobby Johnson - Little Rock, AR 6'5' 170 (Belhaven College)
Roderick Smith - Canton, MS 6'8' 225 (Jackson State University)



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  ADRIATIC LEAGUE   


Olimpija releases Crawford, Helios inks Janza and tests Todorovic - by Zeljko Zule

Tyler Crawford (194-G/F-86, college: Georgetown) has left Union Olimpija to join Sloga Kraljevo. He averaged 12 minutes, 1,5 points, 2,0 rebounds, 0,5 assists, 0,5 steals and 1,0 turnovers in just 2 games of Adriatic League.
Helios re-signed Aljaz Janza (185-G-81) and testing Montenegrin Ivan Todorovic (214-C/F-84, agency: 011 Sports) ex Kalev Cramo.

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The Tulips ink American Charron Fisher - by Dragan Jankovski
Vojvodina Srbijagas finally closed its roster for 08/09. New member of the Tulips became 22-year old American Charron Fisher (193-G/F-85, agency: CAA Sports), who can be used on positions 2 and 3. Fisher is coming to Novi Sad from Niagara University as its leading player. Since he joined Niagara, Fisher constantly improved his digits from year to year. He started with 5.6 ppg and 3.2 rpg in 04/05 while a year later he jumped to 18.3 ppg and 7.9 rpg. Fisher ended senior season with 27.9 ppg and 9.5 rpg for 29 games in NCAA1. At the end of the year he was named 'NABC Division I All-District 2 First Team -08'. In 2005 and 2007 his school was MAAC Tournament Winner and he twice was named 'All-MAAC 1st Team'.

Vojvodina Srbijagas is the completely different team than it was the last season. The Tulips kept only Goran Bajic, Marko Pekovic, Velibor Buha, Ilija Pavkovic and Stefan Hajdukovic from 07/08. They agreed terms with Marko Popovic from Sloga, Jovan Zdravkovic, Miroslav Radenkovic, Danijel Cavic, Marko Jovanovic, Marko Sutalo, Darko Habus, Nikola Dronjak and Djordje Gagic. The biggest reinforcement during the summer for sure was Dejan Borovnjak, who arrived from Partizan Igokea. First round of regional championship brought the first joy for Vojvodina in Zagreb. After that, the team from Novi Sad suffered two defeats, against Buducnost and FMP.

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  ARGENTINA   


TNA ARGENTINA - SECOND DATE - by Bruno Fontana

PEDRO ECHAGUE gained 60-59 to GELP.

The televised game inaugurate the second date of the Argentine TNA.


C1: 12 - 15
C2: 20 - 18 ( 32 - 33)
C3: 16 - 16 ( 48 - 49)
C4: 12 - 10 ( 60 - 59)


Scorers:
Willard Ford (201-F-72, college: Ill.-Chicago) 20 points Lisandro Villa 13 points Lucas Perez 13 points


North zone

17/10

Echague - Obera
San Martin - Asociacion Espanola
Alma Juniors - Union
Asociacion Italiana - LA UNION



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  AUSTRIA   


Basket Swans defeated Tartu Rock in Gmunden - by Eurobasket News
Basket Swans -Tartu Rock 86:64

Basket Swans defeated Tartu Rock in Gmunden in the first leg of their EuroCup qualifier. Trailing 24:25 after the opening quarter Austrian team looked better in the next three periods and sealed 86:64 victory. Deteri Mayes (189-G-74, agency: Court Side, college: Murray St.) paced all the winners with 23 points and 6 rebounds. Anthony Fisher (191-G-83) netted 15, while Matthias Mayer (206-C/F-81) scored 14. Giorgi Tsintsadze (192-G-86) finished the night with 18 points, while Tanoka Beard (205-F/C-71, agency: Arik Krayn Services, college: Boise St.) posted 14.
Colwell gave the hosts a good start making a jump-shot, but Leppik and Talts answered from the arc. The squads played an even game and only in the last seconds of the first period Tartu Rock grabbed 25:24 lead. the picture did not change in the second period with two teams playing equal. Doronin with a three sent the teams to the lockers for 46:45 hosts' advantage.
When the teams came back to the court Basket Swans looked great in defense. First they started with 6-0 run in the third and had 19-7 in it. Huffman gave his team 65:52 advantage entering the last frame. Basket Swans found its game and controlled the rest of the game. Austrian team finished the quarter at 21-12 that gave them 86:64 after the first leg.

Basket Swans: Deteri Mayes 23+6 rebs, Anthony Fisher 15, Matthias Mayer 14
Tartu Rock: Giorgi Tsintsadze 18, Tanoka Beard 14

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  BELGIUM   


D1 Round: 3 (Regular Season) - by Eurobasket News
M.Hainaut - Verviers-Pep. 91-61
Dexia Mons-Hainaut smashed VOO Verviers-Pepinster at home remaining perfect in D1 with score 3-0. Julian Sensley was totally the best player for the winning team collecting 21 points and impressive 16 rebounds for 32 minutes. Caleb Green also was good netting 19 points. Pepinster got 18 points and 4 boards from Adrian Banks but it he was the only one able to compete against tough Mons. After this defeat Pepinster dropped on 1-2.

Leuven - Charleroi 55-64
Spirou Basket Charleroi is another undefeated team in D1 but with 2-0. On the other side, Spotter Leuven will have to look for another opportunity in order to register first win, 0-3. Justin Hamilton drained 17 points and grabbed 5 rebounds for Charleroi. The team of head coach Drazen Anzulovic also got 16 points and 10 rebounds from Wes Wilkinson. James J.J. Miller of Spotter Leuven finished the game with 18 points and 6 boards.

Gent - Aalstar 65-82
Generali Okapi Aalstar jumped on 2-0 after comfortable road victory against Optima Gent, who slipped on 1-2. Stephane Pelle was the key player for the wining side nailing 21 points and pulling down 5 rebounds. Graham Brown shined in Optima Gent adding 16 points and impressive 17 boards. Brandon Freeman also stopped on 16 points in this game.

The last game of Round 3 between Base BC Oostende and Antwerp Diamond Giants is scheduled for November 19th.

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  BOSNIA   


Spralja wins the battle over Smith - by Eurobasket News
Svendborg Rabbits - CBC Siroki 92:100

CBC Siroki won the opener of the EuroChallenge Cup Qualifying Round 1 in Denmark. Svendborg Rabbits tried hard but lost to the team from Bosnia 92:100. Sime Spralja (206-F/C-83) was unstoppable with 34 points for the winners. Ivan Siriscevic (198-G/F-87) netted 23, while Kevin Braswell (188-G-79, agency: Priority Sports, college: Georgetown) added 19. Johnell Smith (186-G-80, college: New Orleans) made a triple-double with massive 39 points, 10 rebounds and 10 assists in defeat.
Gregor Belina (196-G-74, agency: Global Sports Plaza) gave the home side the first lead in the beginning of the game. Johnell Smith made it 26:25 but Sime Spralja closed the first from the arc. With 22-18 in the second Svendborg Rabbits were in front at 48:46 at the halftime. It was Gregor Belina to score three sending the teams to the lockers.
The game belonged to the hosts also in the third period when Svendborg Rabbits won 29-26. Sime Spralja reduced the gap to 77:72 after thirty minutes played. The last period became the battle between Sime Spralja and Johnell Smith. Sime Spralja made it 89:89 with 4 minutes to go. Ivan Siriscevic, Kevin Braswell and Sime Spralja brought the road win for the guests in the opener, 92:100.

Svendborg Rabbits: Johnell Smith 39+10 rebs+10 ast, Gregor Belina 14
CBC Siroki: Sime Spralja 34, Ivan Siriscevic 23, Kevin Braswell 19

Bosnian champion releases American Rodgers - by Eurobasket News
Bosnian champion Bosna ASA BHT decided to waive American Chris Rodgers (193-G-84, agency: Court Side, college: Arizona). 24-year old player was the latest acquisition of Bosna and he supposed to have back-up point guard role. His first game, and it seems his last one in jersey of Bosna ASA BHT, was previous week-end in Zadar. Bosnians suffered real fiasco 57-101 while Rodgers got 8 minutes staying without the points. According to Bosna's head coach Alen Abaz, the team had an option to release Rodgers what it exercised.

'We brought Chris Rodgers but we were careful keeping the option for release. He is a good player but his indolent behavior for sure didn't help our team. We can not tolerate that', said Alen Abaz.

Chris Rodgers arrived to Bosna from Mexican team Fuerza Guinda Nogales. He started 07/08 as a player of Belgian Liege Basket but he left the team in January. For 15 games in D1 Rodgers had 12.2 ppg, 3.3 rpg, 3.6 apg and 1.9 spg. He has experience from NBDL as a player of Sioux Sky Skyforce as well as Albuquerque Thunderbirds. In 2006 Rodgers came out from University of Arizona.

It is announced that Bosna won't look for his replacement at this moment.

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  BULGARIA   


Antalya Basket has a road win over Spartak Pleven - by Eurobasket News
Spartak Pleven -Antalya Basket 83:87

Antalya Basket traveled to Bulgaria and celebrated 83:87 over Spartak Pleven. the things were not so sweet in the third period when they trailed in the game, but 25-13 in the last stanza made the chances for them better to advance. Victor King (196-G-81, agency: Higher Vision Sports, college: Texas A&M) and Marcus Melvin (203-F-82, agency: Strategic Sports, college: N.Carolina St.) led the winners with 20 points each. Hadi Dogan (200-F-86) and Mustafa Bitim (206-F-75) finished the night with 10 points apiece. Ilja Stankov (198-F-76) top-scored in defeat with 22 points and Hrisimir Dimitrov (197-G/F-74, agency: Interperformances) scored 20.
Ilja Stankov made a three-pointer to open the game and then Spartak Pleven won the opening tip 11-2. Antalya Basket reduced the gap in the end of the first period and finished it with 23:20. Moreover Marcus Melvin tied the game at 23:23 as the teams started the second frame. Bulgarian side looked better anyway and extended the lead to 11 points at the halftime. Ilja Stankov with a three sent the teams to the lockers for 48:37. It was him again in the middle of the third to go for plus 15 as Spartak had 68:53. Hadi Dogan was the last to score in the third for 70:62. In the last frame the guests changed the game definitely and were dominating the full court. Victor King tied the game at 83:83 and then he made the final 87:83 victory for the visitors.

Spartak: Ilja Stankov 22,Hrisimir Dimitrov 20
Antalya Basket: Victor King 20, Marcus Melvin 20, Hadi Dogan 10, Mustafa Bitim 10

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  CANADA   


Carl English shines in Spanish ACB - by Eurobasket News
Member of Canadian National Team Carl English (192-G-81, college: Hawaii) demonstrates wonderful performance in Spanish ACB league. In the yesterday's early game of Round 4 his Kalise Gran Kanaria outplayed Regal Barcelona 68-57. Carl English was the main reason why powerful Barca suffered first defeat since the beginning of the season. Granca controlled the game from start to finish with some great hustle and fight. English spent 29 minutes on the court draining 14 points and grabbing 4 rebounds (5/7 FG2, 1/4 3-pts and 1/2 FTs). The only player who was better than great Canadian was James Augustine with 16 points and 5 rebounds.
But let start from the second round with performance of Carl English. As a reminder, at the first day they were free. Rival number one of his Granca was CAI Zaragoza, which celebrated as a visitor. However, Canadian guard was totally the best player for the hosts with 20 points and 4 rebounds. In third round Granca made surprise grabbing a road victory over Fuenlabrada 75-86. Once again Canadian scoring machine shined netting 18 points for 28 minutes. It means that after yesterday's magnificent win against Barca, Kalise Gran Canaria is currently has 2 wins and 1 defeat, what is pretty good score in strong ACB. It is the second season for Carl English in Gran Canaria and it seems it will be even better than the last one when he had 15.9 ppg, 4.1 rpg and 2.4 apg.

Toronto Raptors beat CSKA in Air Canada Centre - by Eurobasket News

Toronto Raptors - CSKA Moscow 86-78

Reining Euroleague and Russian champion CSKA Moscow ended its North American tour seriously challenging to become the second European team ever who suceeded to beat an NBA one at its own floor. CSKA demonstrated much better performance than it was in the first game against Orlando Magic. Russian powerhouse had great 20 minutes finishing the first half 38-47. The biggest problem for CSKA was injury of the captain Matjaz Smodis (205-F-79), who sprained his ankle after 2 minutes, as well as foul troubles of Terence Morris (206-F-79, college: Maryland), who spent on 12 minutes on the court before he fouled out. Toronto's Jermaine O'Neal (211-F-78) and Chris Bosh (211-F-84, college: Georgia Tech) took advantage on that tying the score on 55-55 with 2:46 remaining in third frame. NBA team opened last stanza with impressive 13-2 run. Chris Bosh netted 6 of these 13. It was not the end of this game for CSKA. Former Duke University star Trajan Langdon (192-G-76, college: Duke) stepped up for his team cutting the margin on 80-76 with 1:53 to go. Unfortunately to the Russians, Chris Bosh and Jermaine O'Neal immediately answered with two baskets at the following Toronto's possessions resolving the question about the winner. Chris Bosh was the key player for Toronto draining 24 points and pulling down 10 rebounds. Jose Manuel Calderon (190-G-81) helped his team with 14 points and six assists, while Andrea Bargnani (209-F/C-85) and Jermaine O'Neal had 11 points apiece. Ramunas Siskauskas (197-G-78) scored a team-high 15 points for CSKA. Viktor Khryapa (204-F/G-82), who had 13 points and a game-best 11 rebounds, while Erazem Lorbek (210-F/C-84, college: Michigan St.) had 14 points. Above mentioned Trajan Langdon as well as Zoran Planinic (198-G-82) finished the game with 10 points each.

Toronto: Chris Bosh 24+10 boards, Jose Manuel Calderon 14+6 as, Andrea Bargnani 11, Jermaine O'Neal 11
CSKA: Ramunas Siskauskas 15, Erazem Lorbek 14, Viktor Khryapa 13+11 boards, Trajan Langdon 10, Zoran Planinic 10

Messina coaching clinic a success - by Eurobasket News
International basketball coach Ettore Messina of CSKA Moscow hosted a unique coaches clinic entitled Developing the Big Man on Monday at the University of Toronto Athletic Centre. Over 100 local and national coaches attended the clinic, hoping to gain some insight from one of the games leading minds.

The seminar lasted for around two hours and featured a tutorial, drills and a brief Q-&-A period. Messina showcased his vast knowledge of the game in areas such as finishing around the basket, rebounding, defence and free throw shooting, among other subjects.

Spectators at the clinic couldnt help but notice Messinas emphasis on making the bounce pass.

'In Europe we do not have the athleticism that you have with NBA players, so everything goes back to fundamentals, the timing, the good angles, the screening,' he said.

He also made sure his sense of humour was just as proficient as his drills. Messina kept the crowd laughing with a few jokes, generally centred on the frustration guards have with big men who do not get the job done.

Overall, the clinic was a great success as Messina put on an excellent show and attendance exceeded expectations on Thanksgiving Monday.

Messina and CSKA Moscow were to meet the Toronto Raptors in an exhibition game Tuesday night.

Courtesy of http://www.basketball.ca

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  CROATIA   


Croatians in EuroCup - by Eurobasket News
Five Croatian players took a part in the first legs of EuroCup Qualification Round 1. The most important role had Kresimir Loncar (210-F-83) which practically saved Russian UNICS Kazan from the real disaster against Energa Czarny as a visitor. Polish team took control on UNICS from the beginning and it had advantage of 21 points with just four minutes remaining. It for sure would be totally unreachable for UNICS in the second game but than Loncar stepped up for his team leading it to 76-62. It is still a big problem for the Russians, especially after yesterdays performance, but at least Loncar gave them a chance. He spent 32 minutes on the court adding 26 points, 9 rebounds, 1 assist and 1 blocked shot. The other Croatian in UNICS, Marko Popovic (185-G-82, college: S.Idaho JC), finished the game with 5 points and 2 assists for 36 minutes.

Galatasaray Cafe Crown made a good result in Lithuania against Siauliai 73-73. Croatian big guy Andrija Zizic (207-F/C-80, agency: FCM) had 2 points and 6 rebounds for Turkish team playing 23 minutes.

Slovenian/Croatian Jurica Golemac (209-F-77) appeared in jersey of Panelinios Athens. His team smashed German Telekom Basket Bonn 69-54. Golemac helped it with 16 points, 6 rebounds and 6 assists for 31 minutes.

And the last Croatian in EuroCup Qualification Round 1, first legs, is Bruno Sundov (218-C-80). He registered 6 points and 4 boards for ASK Riga, who celebrated against French Cholet 69-62.

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  CYPRUS   


Frankias vs Raca For the Super Cup Game! - by Nasios Orinos


Yes, its not just any pairing, it is may be the stronger pairing at the moment and it is about to battle for the season opener. AEL and Keravnos are about to meet on the 17th of October at 19:30 at Limmasol. Fans will have the chance to get a glance of two of next years contenders.

Both coaches hold their own records. Vasilis Frankias and Dragan Raca , as coaches, have only met for 3-times, all during the 2006/2007 season, when Raca was coaching APOEL. Two of those were during the regular season and one was for a semi-final cup game.

Vasilis Frankias won all three games. In his favour and will always be remembered, is the great 20-points comeback at the semi-final cup game against Dragan's APOEL, during which Keravnos was down by 20 at the half time, but finally won the game. Frankias, coached a total of 6 years in Cyprus (1 with Panathinaikos Limassol in 1999/2000, 2 with AEL Limassol in 2000/2001 and 2001/2002 and 3 with Keravnos Nicosia from 2005/2008). Out of these, he managed to coach Keravnos within 2 titles, a Cyprus Cup in 2006/2007 and a Cyprus League Championship in 2007/2008.

During his coaching years in Cyprus, Frankias has a 17% success rate.

Dragan Raca , has indeed an impressive record. He coached AEL within 4 titles, all in 3 years (2002/2005). He is a Cyprus Cup Winner in 2004 and a Cyprus League Champion in 2003, 2004, 2005, one of them being a double. His greatest achievement though, is the FIBA Regional Challenge South Winner in 2003. He also coached APOEL in 2006/2007 during which, even though he did not manage to win any of the other title contenders during the regular season (AEL, Keravnos and Apollon), he reached the Playoff Final. Dragan, has also coached the Cyprus National Team in 2004 and 2005. He is simply a man who knows how to find the way to a victory. During his coaching years in Cyprus, his success rate touches 50%.

Percentages and stats do not mean much though in games like this. Frankias is the current champion and has proven during the last two years that is not easy to be beaten. The game promises thrilled moments and it is important more from a psychological point of view.

Raca is looking for his first victory over Frankias and Frankias is looking for another one.

Who is going to be the winner? It remains to be seen!!!



JA Vichy overcame Seastar Apoel in Round 1 - by Eurobasket News
Seastar Apoel -JA Vichy 52:66

JA Vichy won their first-leg encounters in EuroChallenge Qualifying Round 1. The French side overcame Seastar Apoel in Cyprus 52:66. William Gradit (197-F-82, agency: Court Side, college: Hill JC) paced all the winners with 15 points. Shaun Fountain (180-G-78, agency: Duran International, college: Wisc.-Milwaukee) netted 14, while David Teague (196-G-83, college: Purdue) scored 10. Martin Zeno (196-G-85, college: Texas Tech) top-scored in defeat with 15 points and Joseph Garcia (206-C-75, agency: Interperformances, college: UTEP) added 11.
Joseph Garcia propelled his team to the first 6 points in the game as his team enjoyed 6-0 from the start. For the visitors it did not take too much time to ti at 6:6 as Shaun Fountain made a lay-up. JA Vichy posted some important baskets to take however only 16:17 at the end of the opening quarter. Thanks to both teams the intrigue continued in the second and as a result both teams left the court for 25:25.
In the third period the spectators could see more offensive game as in the first half. Rambur made a jump-shot for the guests that had 43:49 after thirty minutes of the game. Right after that French squad extended the lead before the second game between two teams. With 17-9 JA Vichy closed the game and won 66:52 their first-leg encounters in EuroChallenge Qualifying Round 1. Game 2 is scheduled in France on October 21st.

Seastar Apoel: Martin Zeno 15, Joseph Garcia 11
JA Vichy: William Gradit 15, Shaun Fountain 14, David Teague 10

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  CZECH REPUBLIC   


NBL Round: 3 (Regular Season) - by Eurobasket News
Kolin - Liberec 69-76
BK Kondori Liberec had a road win over BC Kolin 69:76. The victory was achieved only in the last period when the guests took a control of the game. Hampton led the winners with 28 points, while Cernosek scored 24.

Geofin - USK Praha 83-78
Geofin Novy Jicin overcame USK Praha at home 83:78. The hosts opened the game with 22:15 and remained in front. Walker top-scored for the winners with 21 points.

Pardubice - Nymburk 62-88
CEZ Basket Nymburk improved to 3-0 after a road win over BK Pardubice. The hosts remained alive after the first half at 35:37 but then the defending champions pushed the tempo for good. Jagodnik, Gray and Sokolovsky paced the winners with 20 points each.

Podebrady - Opava 91-83
Basket Podebrady edged BK B & W Opava 91:83 at home with 24-15 from the start. Benes top-scored for the winners with 24 points and Spicka netted 22.

Ostrava - Decin 70-84
NH Ostrava lost to BK Decin 70:84 that moved to 3-0 record. Hatcher led the winners with 22 points and Stuchly had 30 in defeat.



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  DENMARK   


Stevnsgade will win the 1. division - by Thomas Quaade
According to the Eurobasket.com readers Ryan Kombrink 's BK Skjold/Stevnsgade will win the 1. division this season. They managed to get 35% of the votes, while Aalborg BK got 30% in a close race for first place.

The readers suggested that a third team - called 'other' (he-he), would have great success this season also. 'Other' got 28% of the votes. We believe at Eurobasket.com, that the readers have selected other to vote for their own club. In the standings Aarhus BF, Falcon, Hobas and Lemvig BK has showed good strength but also Fjordager BK Odense, ALBA and Virum has recorded one win. Only Jonstrup and Vaerlose BBK has no victories so far after 3 games played. Vaerlose BBK got 3% of the votes by our readers while Herlev Basket, who is still undeafeted also got 3%.

A total of 120 voted in this poll.

Take a look at the new poll, which is about the Canal Digital Ligaen.

Spralja wins the battle over Smith - by Eurobasket News
Svendborg Rabbits - CBC Siroki 92:100

CBC Siroki won the opener of the EuroChallenge Cup Qualifying Round 1 in Denmark. Svendborg Rabbits tried hard but lost to the team from Bosnia 92:100. Sime Spralja (206-F/C-83) was unstoppable with 34 points for the winners. Ivan Siriscevic (198-G/F-87) netted 23, while Kevin Braswell (188-G-79, agency: Priority Sports, college: Georgetown) added 19. Johnell Smith (186-G-80, college: New Orleans) made a triple-double with massive 39 points, 10 rebounds and 10 assists in defeat.
Gregor Belina (196-G-74, agency: Global Sports Plaza) gave the home side the first lead in the beginning of the game. Johnell Smith made it 26:25 but Sime Spralja closed the first from the arc. With 22-18 in the second Svendborg Rabbits were in front at 48:46 at the halftime. It was Gregor Belina to score three sending the teams to the lockers.
The game belonged to the hosts also in the third period when Svendborg Rabbits won 29-26. Sime Spralja reduced the gap to 77:72 after thirty minutes played. The last period became the battle between Sime Spralja and Johnell Smith. Sime Spralja made it 89:89 with 4 minutes to go. Ivan Siriscevic, Kevin Braswell and Sime Spralja brought the road win for the guests in the opener, 92:100.

Svendborg Rabbits: Johnell Smith 39+10 rebs+10 ast, Gregor Belina 14
CBC Siroki: Sime Spralja 34, Ivan Siriscevic 23, Kevin Braswell 19

Third round in the 1. division put Aalborg BK on top - by Thomas Quaade

In Vaerlose BBK it was a great defensive effort from both teams that produced an intense match. In the 4th quarter Aalborg BK pulled away and won 62-82 in what was actually a very close game. Christian Thomsen (199-F-84) was once again too much to handle - he finished with 27 points, while Nate Warner had 16 for the home team.


In Virum, the new 1. division team hosted Lemvig BK in what was to be a very good game, where Virum got a big 1. quarter lead and played with good consistancy to get their first win of this season. The game finished 96-82 and it's obvious that Lemvig BK are having problems playing away from home - especially on defense, where opponents has scored 105 and 96 poiints.


In Horsholm the hometeam Hobas faced a hungry Falcon team, who was 0-2 in their first two games. Hobas was favorites in this game but Falcon came out and played their best. Darko Jukic scored 28 points and made a big difference for Falcon. Hobas played the game without big men. Rasmus Winkel was their biggest player in the game and it cost them in the rebounding game. Final score was 70-77.


Fjordager BK Odense had played well in their first two games but was facing top ranked Herlev Basket away. It was to be too big a challenge for the young Fjordager BK Odense team and they lost big 94-66. It was in the first half the game was decided - Herlev Basket played their best half of the season and lead 51-24 at halftime through great point guard play from Andreas Heinung (179-G-84).


BK Skjold/Stevnsgade played a perfect game in ALBA, where they won with confidence over a young ALBA team 67-104. Quentin Terry (198-F-82, college: Lock Haven) finished with 21 points for BK Skjold/Stevnsgade while Karl Elkjaer played a good game for the home team. But it was Lasse Laursen from the visiting BK Skjold/Stevnsgade team that stole the show, with a fullcourt basket thrown from his own 3 point line. Not bad.


In Bears country, the young Aarhus BF team hosted Jonstrup, who came to Aarhus with a full team. But it was not enough against a hungry fighting fullcourt defense from Aarhus BF, who won the game with 94-62. It was Jacob Wang (with 24 points) and Poul Dhanjall (with 20 points) who finished the game as top scorers.


This coming weeked the 1. division is on 'vacation' - so the next games is not until the following weekend.



Teams advance in the Danish Cup. - by Thomas Soltau
This past week four teams secured the sport in the next round of the Danish Cup tournament.

First was Bakken Bears, who toke on Aabyhoj IF at home. Aabyhoj IF was looking for a rematch after the defeat in the opening game of the Canal Digital League. But again the Bears were too strong and pulled away with a 97-82 win.

Roskilde BC earned the right to battle the Bears in the next round, after they glided over Bronshoj in their first Cup game.

In Copenhagen 1st division team Vaerlose BBK hosted league team Team FOG Naestved. Naestved handed out a small beating, and brought home the victory 85-60. Sadly for Naestved their point guard Sasha Djordjevic (190-G-85) received a disqualifying foul late in the 4th quarter. The foul was called after a small scuffle, and will likely mean that Djordjevic will be banned from playing the next round of the Cup.

On the other side of the country Randers Cimbria Basketball toke on 1st Division team Horsens BC. The Cambria team raced to a good halftime lead, and brought home the 'easy' win at the end. 92-82 was the result.

Standings - 1st Division
1st Division Standings
 1. Skjold 3-0 
 2. Aalborg 3-0 
 3. Herlev 3-0 
 4. Hobas 2-1 
 5. Aarhus BF 2-1 
 6. Virum 1-2 
 7. Odense 1-2 
 8. Falcon 1-2 
 9. Lemvig 1-2 
 10. ALBA 1-2 
 11. Jonstrup 0-3 
 12. Vaerlose 0-3 


Stats Leaders - Basketligaen
Canal Digital Ligaen Stats Leaders
Points Per Game
Total
1 Kristian Jakobsen 45
2 William Carl 32
3 Mychal Kearse 32
4 Dean Thibodeau 30
5 Keith Borgan 29
Rebounds Per Game
Total
1 Bonell Colas 13
2 Ivan Hoger 9
3 Bonell Colas 9
4 Mychal Kearse 9
5 Peter Johansen 8
Assists Per Game
Total
1 Peter Johansen 9
2 Johnell Smith 7
3 Troels Nielsen 6
4 Anders Hejgaard 6
5 William Carl Pharis 5
Blocks Per Game
Total
1 Joseph Smith 4
2 Ivan Miskovic 3
3 Bonell Colas 3


*****************************************************
  D-LEAGUE   


Tulsa 66ers to pick first in the 2008 NBA Development League Draft - by Eurobasket News
The Tulsa 66ers won the 2008 NBA Development League's draft lottery and will have the first overall selection in the 2008 NBA D-League Draft on Friday, Nov. 7. The lottery took place in Dallas, TX today at the League's annual Fall Meetings.

'Having the number one pick is what teams always hope for, and we're excited to have it,' said 66ers head coach Paul Woolpert. 'Now we have to compile a list, do our homework, and start building a team for the fans in Tulsa.'

The Colorado 14ers secured the second selection, while the Idaho Stampede, Sioux Falls Skyforce and Bakersfield Jam rounded out the top five.

The 2008 NBA D-League's Draft will take place live from the NBA TV studio in Atlanta, GA. The eighth-annual event will be telecast on NBA TV and streamed on-line (www.nba.com/dleague) beginning at 7 pm EST.

The NBA D-League Draft utilizes a 'serpentine' format, meaning the order will alternate in each of the ten rounds. For example, the team picking last in the first round will select first in the second round, giving them the 16th and 17th overall choices.

'With the draft order in place, we're one step closer to getting the 2008-09 season underway,' said Chris Alpert, Vice President of Basketball Operations and Player Personnel for the NBA D-League. 'It's exciting to welcome top NBA prospects into our draft and our league.'


The order of the first round will be:
1. Tulsa 66ers
2. Colorado 14ers
3. Idaho Stampede
4. Sioux Falls Skyforce
5. Bakersfield Jam
6. Fort Wayne Mad Ants
7. Erie BayHawks
8. Anaheim Arsenal
9. Utah Flash
10. Reno Bighorns
11. Dakota Wizards
12. Rio Grande Valley Vipers
13. Los Angeles D-Fenders
14. Albuquerque Thunderbirds
15. Iowa Energy
16. Austin Toros

Courtesy od NBDL

*****************************************************
  DOMINICAN REPUBLIC   


NBA Season With Dominican Flavor - by Kerwin Abreu

Dominican Republic: Getting the 3rd place in the past Mexico Centrobasket was a mid price for the Dominican Republic Basketball Efford lately. Now a new NBA season will start soon and some new things can happen. First, Francisco Garcia (201-F-81, agency: Octagon, college: Louisville) signed a new contract with the Sacramento Kings and may be the Starting SF for the team. Last season he demonstrated he can play and shoot the ball and as a result got a millionaire contract with the Kings.

Alfred Horford (208-F/C-86, college: Florida) who was a tuff competitor for the rookie of the year is now entering his 2nd season as an NBA player after having a first year success. We can see him as a more determining player and also better prepared. He can be a top 10 centers this year in the NBA, remembering that now he is in the top 15 centers.

Charlie Villanueva (209-F-84, college: Connecticut) is in his 3rd season with Milwakee Bucks, after being a bench player last year, this season the bucks left Yi Jinlian to the nets and gave Villanueva the PF position for the season. It is just a matter of time and wait for him to become what we have expected from him.


And never forget we have more players wich descend from Dominican Roots as Quincy Douby, Trevor Ariza and we also like them a lot. And Expect great things from them.



*****************************************************
  ESTONIA   


KML: Welg wins the first game of the season - by Janar Filippov
The Estonian Championships or SEB Korvpalli Meistriliiga (KML) started today with a very entertaining game between Valga Welg and SK Kuremaa (the new name of last year's bronze medallist Fausto!). Welg who has struggled in Baltic League Challenge Cup - 3 consecutive losses - made a nice surprise for home fans today, winning the game 85:80, including a decisive 15:6 in last 4 minutes.
A 16-yr Sven Kaldre became a hero as he nailed two consecutive three-pointers with 4 minutes to go as Welg was 4 points behind. Two more three-pointers in closing minutes by Timo Oja (182-G-87) and Raido Roos (185-G-84) secured Welg an important victory against a very tough opponent.
Veljo Vares (200-F/G-81) (200-F/G-81) scored the very first basket of the season and became a top scorer today with 25 points and 7 rebounds. Richard Anderson (199-F-77, agency: Rasmussen Services, college: Simon Fraser) added 17+11, Timo Oja and Sven Kaldre 11 points. Ardo Armpalu (207-F/C-80, agency: Court Side, college: Marshall) scored 25+6rb for Kuremaa, Ando Tagamets (200-F-79) added 17+10 but missed a potential game-saving three-pointer with 15 seconds left.

Standings - KML
EMKL Standings
 1. TU/Rock 0-0 
 2. Kalev/Cramo 0-0 
 3. Rakvere 0-0 
 4. Kalev Tallinn 0-0 
 5. TTU KK 0-0 
 6. Parnu 0-0 
 7. Valga Welg 0-0 
 8. Kuremaa 0-0 


Stats Leaders
KML Stats Leaders
Points Per Game
1 Vares, Valga 25
2 Armpalu, Kuremaa 25
3 Anderson, Valga 17
4 Tagamets, Kuremaa 17
5 Rannula, Kuremaa 13
Rebounds Per Game
1 Anderson, Valga 11
2 Tagamets, Kuremaa 10
3 Vares, Valga 7
4 Armpalu, Kuremaa 6
5 Viiask, Kuremaa 5
Assists Per Game
1 Roos, Valga 4
2 Kaljula, Kuremaa 4
3 Rannula, Kuremaa 3
4 Armpalu, Kuremaa 3
Steals Per Game
1 Anderson, Valga 3
2 Vares, Valga 2
3 Dorbek, Kuremaa 2
Blocks Per Game
1 Tagamets, Kuremaa 2


*****************************************************
  EUROLEAGUE   


Yannakis: we want to beat everybody - by Kostas Papadopoulos
Panagiotis Yannakis gave an interesting interview at Euroleague's site, regarding the season that begins on next Monday, among the general report that Euroleague makes for each time taking part at this season's competition.
Coach, tell us about your team's roster for the next Euroleague season, what are the changes that you made and what improvements do you expect to gain from those decisions?
Like any team who has an owner that loves his team and wants to spend for the team, we expect to have a very good team. So we have tried with the players weve chosen to have a very good team with good chemistry and good character. So I think we know that its difficult with so many new players to have early results, but I think that with good players' character, were going to try to work every day with a lot of desire and discipline, to learn each other and to get quick results as a team. This year were going to try to have a very strong defensive team.
How much can you learn from the preseason about your team? What signs do you have now that will help when the Euroleague starts?
Always when preparing the team we try to work on understanding each other. We have to think about how we can be a winning team. Its nice sometimes to play a beautiful running and shooting style, but its different than this of understanding how to win games. So for me the most important thing in the preparation is to understand each other and to learn how to eliminate our opportunities to lose games. Its important to have patience. This time is important for building ourselves for the season so that we can have very good results at the end.
What are your goals for the new Euroleague season?
Euroleague has some teams that in the last few years have the same coaches and some of the same players, so we are going to face two different types of teams. One is like CSKA and Panathinaikos that have the same coaches and most of the players are the same, so they have an easier time at the beginning, and some other teams have new coaches and new players. So I expect very interesting teams because there are more teams this year that are expected to do more. So I think there will be great and very competitive games. We know thats its a long season, but we have to take of every game. The players need to understand that they must be focused for every game and for every moment of the game. So we will always try to win and we want to beat everybody. But for this you have to build both your confidence and your concentration. Thats the most important and well try for that firstly. And then well see at the end what we have to do.

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


FINNISH CUP: YMCA LPR scored 109 pts - by Rauno Hurmalainen

Finnish Cup, Quarter-Finals: Three games tonight. YMCA Lappeenranta visiting Joensuu and scoring 109 pts! That was 13 pts too much for Kataja (96-109).
Jerel Blassingame (175-G-81, agency: CAA Sports, college: UNLV) (YMCA LPR) scored 22 pts and gave 14 assists! HL Coleman (202-F-74, college: Wyoming) netted 28 pts and Demtrius Brown (197-F-83, college: San Jose St.) 27 pts + 12 rbs, so YMCA LPR got 77 pts from these decent American players. Kataja was playing this time with eight players. Jeremiah Wood (200-F-85, agency: Court Side) had the game highs 30 pts and 18 rbs. Petri Virtanen (183-G-80) added 22 and Sami Lehtoranta (205-C/F-79, agency: ANYPEX) 19 pts.
ToPo (Helsinki) defeated FoKoPo (Forssa) 80-72. Robert Epps (201-F-79, agency: Tank Sports, college: St.Thomas Aquinas) and Eero Lehtinen (191-G-85) netted both 21 pts. Mikko Jalonen (186-G-82) and Vincent Hunter (208-F-84, college: Arkansas) scored both 19 pts for FoKoPo. Team Componenta (Karkkila) made it also to the Final 4. TC started to play during the second half and beat Vilpas (Salo) 84-68. Marcus Watts (201-F-86, college: Chattanooga) and Frank Richards (188-G-82, college: Kansas St.) combined 37 pts for TC. Quennell Green (198-G/F-84, college: SE Louisiana) and Aubrey Conerly (183-G-83, college: Jacksonville) combined 36 pts for Vilpas. The Finnish Cup Final 4 Teams: Honka (Espoo), Team Componenta (Karkkila), ToPo (Helsinki) and YMCA Lappeenranta. Semi-Finals on November 15.

Kataja - YMCA Lappeenranta 96-109 (47-59) (Jeremiah Wood 30/18, Petri Virtanen 22, Sami Lehtoranta 19 - HL Coleman 28, Demtrius Brown 27/12, Jerel Blassingame 22/14a).

ToPo - FoKoPo 80-72 (41-33) (Robert Epps 21, Eero Lehtinen 21, Isaac Spencer 12 - Mikko Jalonen 19, Vincent Hunter 19, Ray Cunningham 13/11).

Team Componenta - Vilpas 84-68 (33-36) (Marcus Watts 19, Frank Richards 18, Martti Kuisma 17 - Quinnell Green 19, Aubrey Conerly 17).



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


Pro B : Vincent Mendy leaves Nanterre - by Aurelien Hipp

*Vincent Mendy (204-F/C-83) played only 8 minutes in the first two games of the season with Nanterre. Head Coach Pascal Donnadieu finally decided not to keep him in his roster. According to local newspaper and www.basketnews.net website, the player could leave for St-Quentin. Mendy was a U21 player with Nancy, then played for Mulhouse and Clermont in ProA . He also took part to the treviso summer league in june.



ASK Riga outscores Cholet Basket in Latvia - by Eurobasket News
ASK Riga -Cholet Basket 69:62

ASK Riga outscores Cholet Basket in Latvia in the first leg of their EuroCup qualifier. Trailing 16-25 after the opening period the hosts managed to come back into the game and won 69:62. Milutin Aleksic (202-F-82) led the winners with 15 points and 6 rebounds. Andrius Mazutis (180-G-81) nailed 14, while Sandis Valters (193-G/F-78, agency: Arik Krayn Services) posted 11. Vincent Grier (195-G/F-83, college: Minnesota) and Claude Marquis (201-F/C-80, agency: Octagon) ended up with 12 points apiece in defeat, while Alan Wiggins (206-F-84, college: USF) added 11.
Sundov opened the game for the hosts and Sandis Valters made it 6:4 later in the first. Cholet Basket was better in the end of the period and grabbed 25:16 advantage at the end of the period. ASK Riga did not allow the guests to increase the lead and started to reduce in the second. Helmanis made it 32:33 in the end but Larrouquis scored for the guests at 32:35.
Milutin Aleksic tied the game only at 42:42 with 5 minutes to play in the third. Latvian side took 53:46 when the teams finished thirty minutes of the game. Later in the fourth ASK Riga held 5-7 points but tried to extend before the second appearance in France. The final score 69:62 will make the second game as interesting as it was in Riga. The second game is scheduled in France on October 21.

ASK Riga: Milutin Aleksic 15+6 rebs, Andrius Mazutis 14, Sandis Valters 11
Cholet Basket: Vincent Grier 12, Claude Marquis 12, Alan Wiggins 11

JA Vichy overcame Seastar Apoel in Round 1 - by Eurobasket News
Seastar Apoel -JA Vichy 52:66

JA Vichy won their first-leg encounters in EuroChallenge Qualifying Round 1. The French side overcame Seastar Apoel in Cyprus 52:66. William Gradit (197-F-82, agency: Court Side, college: Hill JC) paced all the winners with 15 points. Shaun Fountain (180-G-78, agency: Duran International, college: Wisc.-Milwaukee) netted 14, while David Teague (196-G-83, college: Purdue) scored 10. Martin Zeno (196-G-85, college: Texas Tech) top-scored in defeat with 15 points and Joseph Garcia (206-C-75, agency: Interperformances, college: UTEP) added 11.
Joseph Garcia propelled his team to the first 6 points in the game as his team enjoyed 6-0 from the start. For the visitors it did not take too much time to ti at 6:6 as Shaun Fountain made a lay-up. JA Vichy posted some important baskets to take however only 16:17 at the end of the opening quarter. Thanks to both teams the intrigue continued in the second and as a result both teams left the court for 25:25.
In the third period the spectators could see more offensive game as in the first half. Rambur made a jump-shot for the guests that had 43:49 after thirty minutes of the game. Right after that French squad extended the lead before the second game between two teams. With 17-9 JA Vichy closed the game and won 66:52 their first-leg encounters in EuroChallenge Qualifying Round 1. Game 2 is scheduled in France on October 21st.

Seastar Apoel: Martin Zeno 15, Joseph Garcia 11
JA Vichy: William Gradit 15, Shaun Fountain 14, David Teague 10

NM1 Day 06: Lille gaves up against the GET Vosges - by Chris Spiesser
Lille lost its first game last Saturday. The nordists now share their first rank with Fos, Bordeaux and Challans which overcame Blois in an other important match. On the other side, Roche grabbed its first win at Priss while St-Chamond trimphed at home against Bayonne.

The results:
Fos 76-52 Angers
Lille 67-68 GET Vosges
Challans 83-72 Blois
Juvisy 70-86 Bordeaux
Chlons 89-55 Centre Fdral
Saint-Chamond 59-54 Denek bat Urcuit
Priss 95-96 Roche-la-Molire
Boulogne 79-84 Livin
Longwy 97-89 Reims

The main facts:
Lema (13pts, 3rbs) nailed the final FTs for the GET Vosges in Lille. The nordists will face another top team next week: Angers.
The westerners shot at 34% in Fos which let no chances to its opponent. Toto ends with 16pts (8/10), 9rbs.
Challans had a top performance against Blois with a bright Benjamin Boutry (197-F-80 - 17pts, 10rbs, 5stl).
Bordeaux keeps the pace in Juvisy thanks to Aurelien Caille's impact: 18pts (8/9), 12rbs.
Lievin forgot its two losses against Fos and Lille with a huge win in Boulogne. Diawara, Lehut and N'Kembe combine 60 ranking points. Lehut scored Lievin's 7 final points. Boulogne shot 40 times at 3pts for 10 baskets.
Chalons' win against the CFBB was expected. M'Bianda and Patiejaunas made big figures: 24pts (10/13), 4rbs for the first and 14pts, 4rbs, 6stl, 9ass, 3to for the second.
Longwy joins Reims in the standings with the performances of Godin and Eppeheimer who totalize 50 ranking points.
Other offensive festival in Priss where the home team lost after 2 overtimes. Priss had a 16pts lead 4 minutes before the end of the game. But they couldn't put the final touch to a third win despite an incredible Tillon (38pts 8/12 3pts, 4rbs, 4to) and double-doubles by Kolb and Jobert. More collective, Roche lost less balls (13 vs 21) and Zoric (14pts, 8rbs) nailed the final FTs.
Defense was the key word in St-Chamond. The best receipe for the home team which bite Bayonne (38 ranking points) to grab a second win and a bunch of confidance.

*****************************************************
  FYR MACEDONIA   


Vrbica Stefanov and ViveMenorca part ways - by Eurobasket News

One of the most important players of Team Macedonia on EuroBasket 2009 qualifications, point guard Vrbica Stefanov (188-G-73, agency: Interperformances), parted ways with Spanish Vive Menorca. Stefanov joined Menorca in February this year. He helped it to survive in ACB with 6.8 ppg, 1.6 rpg and 2.6 apg in 11 games. This season he had 3 appearances in jersey of Menorca getting jut 10 minutes per game and having less than a point. Unfortunately his team has 0-3 at this moment. Stefanov assured 'that is very tired after 15 years without holidays, and that is not sure that he can play at top level during all season'. Stefanov added: 'I'd like to thank the fans for their support during my stance in the island. They have very good players and excellent guards that will show that can play and win against any team'.
Vrbica Stefanov led Team Macedonia this summer demonstrating great performance. He played 5 games for his country averaging 13 ppg, 1.4 rpg and 2.4 apg. Macedonia finally made it and after many years it will show up on this prestigious event.
Stefanov changed many teams in the past. He started in MZT Skopje and later was a member of Rabotnicki, Karsiyaka and AEK Athens. In 2001 he joined Italian Montepaschi Siena having impressive performance in Euroleague for the following 3 seasons. In 2005 Stefanov agreed terms with Ulker while next season he had a short role in Crvena Zvezda leaving after just one game. In January last year he inked with the Greek giant Olympiakos and finally last summer his destination was Turkish Mersin.



BC Amak loses the opener of EuroChallenge Cup Qualifier - by Eurobasket News

BC Amak S.P.-Zlatorog 70:76

Macedonian BC Amak S.P.lost to Zlatorog in the EuroChallenge Cup Qualifying Round 1. The latter looked better in the second half and won 70:76. Milos Miljkovic (205-C-84) led the winners with 18 points and 8 rebounds. Uros Lucic (207-C-83) netted 17, while Nejc Strnad (190-G-83, agency: VTBM/SRBM) scored 13. Eftim Bogojev (185-G-80) top-scored with 20 points in defeat. Frye followed him with 16 and Miroslav Cubrilo (205-C-82) scored 13.
Stojanovski opened the game from the arc and then Miroslav Cubrilo made it 5-0 for the hosts. Eftim Bogojev closed the first period at 23:17 as his team looked well in the court. Even thought Zlatorog won the second quarter 18-15 the hosts were in front at 38:35 at the halftime.
Slovenian team played without injured starting point guard Ali Berdiel and opened second half with a crucial 15-2 run with 10 straight points. Zlatorog outrebounded its opponent 31-24 and shot 8-of-19 behind the arc while Amak had just 18 percent from the downtown.Kostomaj made the final score, 70:76 as the teams will have the second game in Slovenia.

Game 2 is scheduled on October 21 in Slovenia. Macedonian BC Amak S.P will need to win by more than 6 in order to advance.


BC Amak S.P: Eftim Bogojev 20, Frye 16, Miroslav Cubrilo 13
Zlatorog:Milos Miljkovic 18+8 rebs, Uros Lucic 17, Nejc Strnad 13



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


Ryan Lancaster(TV Langen) Interview - by Miles Schmidt-Scheuber
Hi Ryan Lancaster (193-G-85, agency: Weller Sports - Entertainment, college: Holy Family), thank you for taking some time to talk to www. eurobasket. com.This is your first season in Germany with TV Langen. What were the main reasons why you decided to come play here?

Well first, the opportunity to continue my basketball career at the professional level. I also heard a lot of good things about Germany, and the competition here is very solid.

Your from Atlantic City, New Jersey. Was it difficult adjusting to Langen since it is a very small town?

It was a little difficult at first, but I adjusted pretty quickly. The culture is not that much different, and I dont mind playing in a small town.

Have you discovered the big city Frankfurt, which is very close by?

I have not really been out much since I have been here, I do plan to check Frankfurt out soon though. I hear that is the place to be according to my teammates.


TV Langen had a rough start losing the first two games in Cuxhaven and at home against Bayreuth. It also wasn..t fortunate that you met two of the strongest teams in the first weekend. What were the main reasons for the loss in Cuxhaven.

Well Cuxhaven is a strong team, they have a lot of good players that all play well together. Watkins controls that team very well. We had our runs, but they jumped on us so early, and we were not able to overcome that.


You also lost the home opener 71 to 60 against Bayreuth. How was it playing in your new home in Langen? How are the fans?


Although it is not the biggest gym, It was a good atmosphere here. The fans are very supportive and really get involved with the game. I just wish we could have won the game for them.


What was your impression of Bayreuth? Many pick them to win the PRO A league?

Bayreuth is a good team, I have only played against a few Pro A teams, so I dont know how they compare to everyone else, but from what it looks like, they should be among the top as picked

What is your impression of the PRO A level? What could you compare it too?

The Pro A level is a very good level of competition. It is probably pretty similar to mid-major NCAA 1 basketball.


You played a total of 23 minutes in the two games not scoring. Were you surprised of getting so little playing time especially since you had some good preseason games?

I was a little surprised at first, but there will be some games like that, I am not worried about it though, Fabian is a good coach, and makes good decisions, so all I can do is go out there and play 100% when given the opportunity.


What exactly is your role in the team?

I would say to come in and be aggressive, creating for others, and guarding the other teams best guard


How would you describe the team? There are two Americans, one Canadian, a Turk and all the rest are Germans. How is the team chemistry?

I really like the team, we all get along and push one another. I think our chemisty is good, and it is still improving on a daily basis. A lot of guys werent here with us in August, so we havent been playing together that long, it will definitely continue to develop though.


How is your relationship to coach Fabian Villmeter

We have a good relationship, I like what he brings as a coach, he knows a lot for being a young guy. He keeps us motivated, and is a good person. He has helped me out a lot during my time here so far.


What is your impression of big man Robin Benzing? He was supposed to play at The University of Michigan, but then didn..t go. What can he reach as a pro basketball player?

Robin is a good player. There arent too many guys with his size and skill level. Sometimes I dont think he realizes how good he really is, but he is still young and as he continues to mature, the sky is the limit for him, and he can possibly reach the highest level in a few years.


Your team mate Marco Vller has a very famous dad Rudi Vller who was a German soccer legend. Did you know about that?

I didnt know that until a teammate told me the poster in the hallway was his father. I never was that much of a soccer fan, but being here, I have seen more games and its actually really exciting.

What was it like growing up in New Jersey?

Growing up in New Jersey was good for me. Its a really nice state and there is a lot to do out there. We also have New York and Philadelphia right next to us. I have always liked the area, and its also very good for basketball, because we have some of the top players in the country.

Who were your Basketball idols growing up?

Michael Jordan and Kobe Bryant. I really like their competitiveness and determination as players. They give 100% every night, and want to be the best player every time they step on the court, and not to mention their skill level is unmatched.

You played college ball at Holy Family University. What kind of experience was that for you?

It was a good experience. We had a good team every year I was there, and played solid competition. I learned a lot there and developed my game in all aspects.


What are your nicest memories from college?

I would say making the NCAA tournament.


Who were the best players that you played against at the college level, who might be in the NBA or Europe?

I used to go to Villanova and work out a lot. Randy Foye is a very good player, he is with the Minnesota Timberwolves. Allan Ray was also very good, he is playing in Italy right now. There were a lot of good players though, but they stand out to me.

What is your biggest weapon as a scorer?

I would say my quickness and jump shot.

What was the most spectacular shot that you made at any level?


probably my game winning shot last year to send us to the championship game in our conference

You have a degree in Business Marketing. What would you like to do after your Basketball career?

I would like to start a sports agency and work in a marketing firm somewhere with in the Philadelphia area

What are your hobbies?

basketball, lifting, the internet

Thanks for the chat, Ryan! All the best this season in Langen!

Bank Skyliners are victorious in Ukraine - by Eurobasket News
MBC Nikolaev - Bank Skyliners 68:75

Bank Skyliners won the opener of their EuroChallenge Cup Qualifying Round 1 in Ukraine. The German side overcame MBC Nikolaev 68:75 to have better chances before Game 2 in Germany. Keith Simmons (196-G-85, college: Holy Cross) led the winners with 17 points and 13 rebounds. Pascal Roller (180-G-76) netted 15, while Gordon scored 14. Sergiy Gladyr (196-G/F-89) and Oleksandr Rayevskyy (185-G-76) top-scored for the home team with 15 points each.
Bank Skyliners went on an early lead and had 7-0 from the very beginning. Ukrainian team reduced the gap and Sergiy Gladyr made it 7:9. King closed the first period at 13:16 for the visitors. The second quarter started offensively from both squads and Oleksandr Rayevskyy tied the game at 30:30. Even though Pascal Roller was the last to score in the half MBC Nikolaev had 35:34 when the teams went to the lockers.
Bank Skyliners kept the Ukrainian team scoreless in the first three minutes of the third period. Keith Simmons extended the lead for his team at 53:39 later in the quarter. Oleksandr Rayevskyy still kept his team alive for 52:56 after the third period. With 19-16 in the last quarter Bank Skyliners won the opener of their EuroChallenge Cup Qualifying Round 1 in Ukraine. German team triumphed with 75:68 and now will need to keep the advantage in Game 2.

MBC Nikolaev: Sergiy Gladyr 15, Oleksandr Rayevskyy 15, Wilkins 13
Bank Skyliners: Keith Simmons 17+13 rebs, Pascal Roller 15, Gordon 14

*****************************************************
  GREECE   


Yannakis: we want to beat everybody - by Kostas Papadopoulos
Panagiotis Yannakis gave an interesting interview at Euroleague's site, regarding the season that begins on next Monday, among the general report that Euroleague makes for each time taking part at this season's competition.
Coach, tell us about your team's roster for the next Euroleague season, what are the changes that you made and what improvements do you expect to gain from those decisions?
Like any team who has an owner that loves his team and wants to spend for the team, we expect to have a very good team. So we have tried with the players weve chosen to have a very good team with good chemistry and good character. So I think we know that its difficult with so many new players to have early results, but I think that with good players' character, were going to try to work every day with a lot of desire and discipline, to learn each other and to get quick results as a team. This year were going to try to have a very strong defensive team.
How much can you learn from the preseason about your team? What signs do you have now that will help when the Euroleague starts?
Always when preparing the team we try to work on understanding each other. We have to think about how we can be a winning team. Its nice sometimes to play a beautiful running and shooting style, but its different than this of understanding how to win games. So for me the most important thing in the preparation is to understand each other and to learn how to eliminate our opportunities to lose games. Its important to have patience. This time is important for building ourselves for the season so that we can have very good results at the end.
What are your goals for the new Euroleague season?
Euroleague has some teams that in the last few years have the same coaches and some of the same players, so we are going to face two different types of teams. One is like CSKA and Panathinaikos that have the same coaches and most of the players are the same, so they have an easier time at the beginning, and some other teams have new coaches and new players. So I expect very interesting teams because there are more teams this year that are expected to do more. So I think there will be great and very competitive games. We know thats its a long season, but we have to take of every game. The players need to understand that they must be focused for every game and for every moment of the game. So we will always try to win and we want to beat everybody. But for this you have to build both your confidence and your concentration. Thats the most important and well try for that firstly. And then well see at the end what we have to do.

Stats Leaders - A1
A1 Stats Leaders
Points Per Game
1.Tsaldaris, Aris 21
2.Schultze, Olympia 19
3.Smith, Kolossos 19
4.Koubouras, Marousi 19
5.Bogdanos, Trikala 18
6. Vasiliadis, PAOK 18
Rebounds Per Game
1.Bourousis,Olympiakos 10
2.Bryant, AEK 9
3.Baxter, Panionios 9
Assists Per Game
1.Avery,Trikala 9
2.Papaloukas, Olympiakos 7
3.Grundy,Panellinios 6
4.Nelson, Aris 6
5.Goldwire, Egaleo 5
Steals Per Game
1.Nelson, Aris 4
2.Iliadis, Aris 4
3.Gizogiannis, Egaleo 3
4.Radenovic, Panellinios3
Blocks Per Game
1.Glyniadakis, Marousi 2
2.Baxter, Panionios 2
3.Fotsis, PAO 2
2FGP
1.Schultze,Olympia100%
2.Massie, Trikala 100%
3.Baxter, Panionios 86%
3FGP
1.Diarra, PAOK 100%2.Pelekanos, Olympiakos 75%
3.Kaklamanos,Trikala 67%
4.Tsiaras,PAOK 67%
Free Throws
1.Batis, Olympia 100%
2.Iliadis,Aris 100%
3.Childress,Olympiakos 100%
4.Zoroski,Panionios 100%
5.Perperoglou,PAO 100%
6.Jasikeviciuc,PAO 100%
Ranking
1.Zoroski,Panionios 1.368
2.Pelekanos,Olympiakos 1.226
3.Fotsis,PAO 0.983
4.Printezis,Olympiakos 0.951


*****************************************************
  GUYANA   


LABA/ELITE SUMER FEST 2008 FINAL - by Joe Chapman

LABA /ELITE BASKETBALL FINAL SUFFERS ANOTHER POSTPONEMENT....
Having had a few postponements to its LABA/ Elite Summer Fest 2008 First Division basketball eight team knock-out championship, the Linden Amateur Basketball Association (LABA) is now contemplating when the championship and third place playoff game of the tournament will be staged.
Last Saturdays tournament finale did not come off since two clubs were requested to send representatives to the funeral of Kevin Worrel, a Courts Pacesetters basketball player who died while representing his club in the Georgetown Amateur Basketball Associations (GABA) season opener at Burnham Court in the capital City two Sundays ago.
Top Linden club Kashif and Shanghai Kings, who were to play national club champions Wismar Pistons in the final, and Victory Valley Royals who were up against Amelias Ward Jets in the third place playoff match sought to have the matches postponed in respect of the fallen colleague.
The LABA it seemed were at odds with the requests and while apparently deliberating its final position on those requests, failed to pull the advertisement off the television or even signal the postponement of the games, which were set for the Mackenzie Sports Club hard court. As such it caused some embarrassment for LABA as fans turned up to see the matches last Saturdaynight, not knowing the games were not being played.
In fact, an official of the Association said it was an oversight not stopping the advertisement from showing on the night of the scheduled final saying the LABA took full responsibilityfor the lapse.

It is now unknown when this long awaited final will take place, in light of the fact that the Beepat Scorpions All Star Weekend will be held in two weeks time and LABA had also planned its own All Star promotion, set for this weekend in Linden.



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


Amsterdam edges BC FMP Zeleznik in the capital - by Eurobasket News
EclipseJet MyGuide Amsterdam- BC FMP Zeleznik 66:60

EclipseJet MyGuide Amsterdam beat BC FMP Zeleznik in the first leg of their EuroCup qualifier. The capital of Hollabd saw 66:60 tough win but the second game will be decisive. Teddy Gipson (193-G/F-80, agency: 540 Sports, college: Arkansas) led the winners with 22 points. Greene netted 14, while Avis Wyatt (211-F/C-84, college: Virginia St.) added 9. Dragan Labovic (207-C/F-87) ended up with 21 points in defeat, whilst Miroslav Raduljica (213-C-88, agency: CAA Sports) collected 12 points and 12 boards.
Dragan Labovic scored the first five points in the game for 5-0 run. The hosts replied with 6-0 and Harrison made it 6:5. It was him again to close the opening quarter at 19:17. Trailing 19:20 in the beginning of the second frame EclipseJet MyGuide Amsterdam created a 8-0 run for 27:20. Greene with a three sent the teams to the lockers for 37:27 advantage.
The hosts kept 10-point lead in the third period and had 55:45. It was Protic from the arc to be the last in the third period scorer. Samardziski reduced to 59:56 in the end of the game but EclipseJet MyGuide Amsterdam made the margin a bit bigger. The final score saw the hosts celebrating 66:60 victory.

EclipseJet MyGuide Amsterdam:Teddy Gipson 22, Greene 14, Avis Wyatt 9
BC FMP Zeleznik: Dragan Labovic 21, Miroslav Raduljica 12+12 rebs

Todd Babington replaces McGowan for six weeks - by Fred Roggen
ZZ Leiden has attracted a temporary replacement for Cedric McGowan. The American Todd Babington (196-G-86, agency: Court Side) replaces the injured McGowan till Christmas
The injury of Cedric McGowan turns out better than expected,, he does not have to be operated and the recovery is estimated by the medical staff in about six weeks.
Todd Babington played four years for Austin Peay State and averaged last season 11.5ppg.

EuroChallenge Play: Eiffel Towers Snap Road Losing Streak, Wins Impressively Over Polaroid Lami-Ved Kormend - by Sanders Jackson

Tuesday night in Hungary, Eiffel Towers moved one step closer to advancing to the next round in EuroChallenge Cup play, snapping a 13-game European Cup road losing streak with an impressive 88-71 win over Polaroid Lami-Ved Kormend. Eiffel controlled the tempo from start to finish and kept the lead the majority of the 2nd half in double-digits. Four Eiffel players scored in double figures, including the formidable inside tag team combination of Jerome Beasley (209-F-80, college: N.Dakota) and Devonne Giles (203-F-83, college: Texas Tech), with Beasley having numbers of 25 pts. and 11 rebounds, and Giles adding 15 pts. and 12 rebounds. Sharpshooter Kees Akerboom (200-F-83, agency: Court Side) added 15 and was an integral part of helping Eiffel pull away from the Hungarians in the 3rd quarter. Eiffel also shot a white-hot 84.6% FG and dominated the glass at a 43-26 clip. The win was for head coach Randy Wiel special, his first European Cup road win in 18 tries.

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


Kormend lost the opener - by Eurobasket News
Kormend- EiffelTowers Den Bosch 71:88

Kormend lost the opener of the EuroChallenge Qualifying Round 1 at home to the Dutch team. EiffelTowers Den Bosch moved one step closer to the next round in EuroChallenge Cup with an impressive 88:71 win. Eiffel controlled the tempo from start to finish and kept the lead the majority of the 2nd half in double-digits. Jerome Beasley (209-F-80, college: N.Dakota) led the winners with 25 points and 11 rebounds. Kees Akerboom (200-F-83, agency: Court Side) posted 15, while Devonne Giles (203-F-83, college: Texas Tech) collected 15 points and 12 rebounds. Banks top-scored with 21 points in the losing effort, while Manix Auriantal (187-G-80, college: NYIT) netted 12.
Eiffel shot a white-hot 84.6% FG and dominated the glass at a 43-26 clip. The win was for head coach Randy Wiel special, his first European Cup road win in 18 tries.
Hungarian side lost the first quarter at 14:24, but came back in to the game in the second. Banks pulled his team to 35:38 with 2 minutes to go in the first half but it was not the last shot made. Oliver made two free throws for 35:40 for the guests at the halftime. Kormend lost the third stanza 20-29 and trailed 55:69 after three quarters played. The hosts tried hard but could not catch up with the visitors. Manix Auriantal made the last lay-up for 71:88 as the guests stayed closer to advance.

Kormend: Banks 21, Manix Auriantal 12
EiffelTowers Den Bosch: Jerome Beasley 25+11 rebs, Kees Akerboom 15, Devonne Giles 15+12 rebs

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


Holon to exchange Coleman with Lifshitz - by Yehonatan Eliahu
Reigning Israeli champion Hapoel Holon decided to part ways with Israeli-Danish guard Chanan Colman (192-G-84, agency: Arik Krayn Services, college: Chipola J7.4ppg, C). Holon's coach, Dani Franko wasn't satisfied with Coleman's performance as of late and decided not to keep him in the team. Coleman will now look for a new team, probably an Israeli team. His replacement in Holon will be energetic Lior Lifshits (180-G-84, agency: Arik Krayn Services), who signed for one year term.Lifshits was a big part of last season Givat-Shmuel rise to the first division. He also had a short stints with Galil-Gilboa and Ashkelon in the past. Lifshtis signed with Ukrainian side Odessa recently, but left the team after a short period.

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


Bulls Wizards off to flying start in NBL playoffs - by Leonard Whyte

The 2008 Kentucky Fried Chicken (KFC)/National Basketball League (NBL) got on the way last night at the National Stadium courts with the playing of two games. There were no fireworks as both games went according to plan. First, Paul Oliphant sank 27 points and Dovian Wade added 15 to lead no.2 Port Royal Bulls to a wire-to-wire 82-71 victory over no.7 St. Georges Slayers, then no.3 Tivoli Wizards, behind 16 points from Dwayne Harris and 14 from Levar Henry, defeated no.6 Portmore Flames 73-66. Bulls and Wizards now hold a 1-0 lead in their best-of-three series.

The league continues on Thursday night with the playing of two more games. Defending champions, Urban Knights, enter the night's feature contest against Runnin' Rebels as they begin their quest for a record unbeaten season. In the first game at 6:00 pm, Arnett Gardens Rockers will face Majestic Gardens. The feature game is set to begin at 7:45 pm.



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


Standings - BJ League
BJ Standings
Eastern
 1. Broncos 0-0 
 2. Phoenix 0-0 
 3. Albirex 0-0 
 4. 89ers 0-0 
 5. Apache 0-0 
 6. Grouses 0-0 
Western
 1. Golden Kings 0-0 
 2. Lakestars 0-0 
 3. Evessa 0-0 
 4. Heat Devils 0-0 
 5. Rizing 0-0 
 6. Five Arrows 0-0 


*****************************************************
  KUWAIT   


Standings
D1 Standings
1. Al Qadsia 0-0
2. Al Kuwait 0-0
3. Al Jahraa 0-0
4. Al Arabi 0-0
5. Al Yarmook 0-0
6. An Nasr 0-0
7. Al Sahel 0-0
8. Kazma 0-0
9. Sulaibikhat 0-0
10. Al Tadhamon 0-0


*****************************************************
  LATVIA   


ASK Riga outscores Cholet Basket in Latvia - by Eurobasket News
ASK Riga -Cholet Basket 69:62

ASK Riga outscores Cholet Basket in Latvia in the first leg of their EuroCup qualifier. Trailing 16-25 after the opening period the hosts managed to come back into the game and won 69:62. Milutin Aleksic (202-F-82) led the winners with 15 points and 6 rebounds. Andrius Mazutis (180-G-81) nailed 14, while Sandis Valters (193-G/F-78, agency: Arik Krayn Services) posted 11. Vincent Grier (195-G/F-83, college: Minnesota) and Claude Marquis (201-F/C-80, agency: Octagon) ended up with 12 points apiece in defeat, while Alan Wiggins (206-F-84, college: USF) added 11.
Sundov opened the game for the hosts and Sandis Valters made it 6:4 later in the first. Cholet Basket was better in the end of the period and grabbed 25:16 advantage at the end of the period. ASK Riga did not allow the guests to increase the lead and started to reduce in the second. Helmanis made it 32:33 in the end but Larrouquis scored for the guests at 32:35.
Milutin Aleksic tied the game only at 42:42 with 5 minutes to play in the third. Latvian side took 53:46 when the teams finished thirty minutes of the game. Later in the fourth ASK Riga held 5-7 points but tried to extend before the second appearance in France. The final score 69:62 will make the second game as interesting as it was in Riga. The second game is scheduled in France on October 21.

ASK Riga: Milutin Aleksic 15+6 rebs, Andrius Mazutis 14, Sandis Valters 11
Cholet Basket: Vincent Grier 12, Claude Marquis 12, Alan Wiggins 11

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


Standings - Nationale 2
N2 Standings
1. Soleuvre 1-0
2. BC Mess 1-0
3. Basket Esch 1-0
4. Pall Arel 1-0
5. Mondorf 0-1
6. BBC Nitia 0-1
7. Bascharage 0-1
8. Schieren 0-1


*****************************************************
  NBA   


Minnesota's Telfair suspended three games - by Bruno Baltazar
Minnesota Timberwolves point guard Sebastian Telfair (6'0''-G-85) was suspended on Tuesday for three games after pleading guilty to criminal possession of a weapon.
Telfair was sentenced last month to three years' probation. He was arrested in April 2007 when police found him carrying a loaded gun in his car while he was a member of the Boston Celtics.

The Celtics traded him to Minnesota in the deal for Kevin Garnett, and Telfair had a solid and incident-free first season in Minnesota. He signed a three-year, $7.5 million deal this summer to remain with the Timberwolves. He is the top backup to starter Randy Foye.

'I've talked to Sebastian about the incident. This is something that happened in the past, and he is looking forward to putting this behind him,' Timberwolves vice president of basketball operations Kevin McHale said. 'Since he has been a member of the Timberwolves, Sebastian has been a great teammate and has been actively involved in the community. I couldn't be more proud of Sebastian's continued improvement as a basketball player and as a young man.'

Minnesota coach Randy Wittman downplayed Telfair's suspension before the Timberwolves played the Chicago Bulls in a preseason game Tuesday night at the United Center.

'It is what it is. That was something in his past, happened a couple of years ago. Now we have to deal with that,' Wittman said. 'Since he's been here with us he's been a model citizen. He's been great in the community. He's done everything I've asked him to do. ...Finally now maybe he can put this thing behind him and move forward. ... It's unfortunate to miss the first few games of the year, but we can put it to rest now.'

After an underwhelming first three seasons in Portland and Boston, Telfair notched career highs in games started (51), shooting percentage (40) and assists per game (5.9) and averaged 9.3 points last year for Minnesota.

He will miss home games against Sacramento and Dallas and a road game at Oklahoma City. Telfair is eligible to return for a home game on Nov. 5 against San Antonio.

Philadelphia exercises options for Smith and Young - by Eurobasket News
Philadelphia announced it will exercise the third-year options on the contracts of Jason Smith and Thaddeus Young (6'8''-F-88, college: Georgia Tech).

Jason Smith was originally 20th overall pick on 2007 NBA Draft selected by Miami Heat. Later the Sixers acquired Smith in exchange for Daequan Cook, their 21st overall pick, a future second round pick and cash consideration. I his rookie season Smith had 4.5 ppg and 3 rpg for 76 regular season games. Later he appeared 6 more times in the play-off recording 3.3 ppg and 2.5 rpg. Smith came out from Colodaro State University as one of its best players. In 06/07 he averaged 16.8 ppg, 10.1 rpg, 1.9 apg and 1.6 bpg in 30 games. His school managed to reach semifinals of MWC Tournament. In 2006 and 2007 Smith was named 'All-MWC 1st Team'. He also was 'All-MWC Freshman of the Year -05'.

The 76ers selected Thaddeus Young as 12th overall pick last year. His average digits in rookie season were 8.2 ppg and 4.2 rpg. In play-off he jumped on 10.2 ppg and 4.5 rpg for 6 games. Young is currently the Sixers' starting small forward. He came out from Georgia Tech with 14.4 ppg and 4.9 rpg. In 2004 he was a member of U18 USA National Team while two years later he participated at the Nike Hoop Summit (USA Selection).

*****************************************************
  NCAA1   


Collins, Little named to Big 12 preseason team - by Eurobasket News
Kansas' guard Sherron Collins (5'11''-G-87) has been named to the men's basketball preseason All-Big 12 team and junior Mario Little has been picked as the preseason newcomer of the year, the league announced Tuesday.

Collins and Little were selected in a vote by the league head coaches.

Joining Collins on the All-Big 12 team are Oklahoma sophomore forward Blake Griffin, Baylor senior guard Curtis Jerrells, Texas senior guard A.J. Abrams and Texas junior forward Damion James. Griffin was named the preseason player of the year and Sooner teammate Willie Warren was voted preseason freshman of the year.

Collins is the Jayhawks' leading returning scorer from the 2007-08 season, averaging 9.3 points per game. The Chicago native has made a huge impact in his first two seasons at KU, helping the Jayhawks to the 2008 national title, two Big 12 regular-season championships, two league tourney titles and two NCAA Tournament Elite Eight appearances.

Last season, Collins was honored with the Big 12 sixth man award and was named to the Big 12 all-reserve team. As a freshman, he was a member of the Big 12 all-rookie team as he averaged 22.3 minutes and 9.3 points per game and was an All-Big 12 honorable mention selection.

Little arrives in Lawrence after leading Chipola (Fla.) to a 68-5 record over the last two seasons. He averaged 15.2 points, 5.5 rebounds and 2.6 assists a year ago and shot 55 percent from the floor, including 40 percent from three-point range.

Little was rated as the No. 1 junior college player in the country by Rivals.com.

Twelve players received votes for the All-Big 12 team. The honorable mention selections were DeMarre Carroll and Leo Lyons of Missouri; James Anderson and Byron Eaton of Oklahoma State, Connor Atchley of Texas, and Josh Carter and Bryan Davis of Texas A&M.

Courtesy of http://www.hutchnews.com

UAB standout Vaden arrested and charged with intoxication - by Eurobasket News
UAB basketball standout Robert Vaden (6'5''-G/F-85, college: Indiana) was arrested on a preliminary charge of public intoxication last weekend while visiting friends in Bloomington, Ind.

The news comes on the same day that Conference USA coaches voted Vaden, a transfer from Indiana, as their Preseason Player of the Year.

'We just found out about this matter (Tuesday afternoon),' UAB Athletics Director Brian Mackin said in a statement released by the university. 'We are examining the circumstances and any actions that need to be taken by the university.'

The Bloomington Herald Times, which reported the story Tuesday, said Bloomington police Officer Ian Lovan saw a man who appeared intoxicated and was pushing people on a downtown Bloomington street. The man, later identified as the 23-year-old Vaden, failed dexterity tests to determine if he was drunk and was booked on the public intoxication charge, according to the newspaper.

Vaden is on probation after a disorderly conduct arrest in Birmingham in 2007. Vaden was one of five current or former UAB players arrested outside a Southside club in late August of last year.

Vaden was unavailable for comment about the weekend arrest.

UAB head coach Mike Davis, who was out of town, was not available for comment.

Before the news broke Tuesday, Vaden spoke earlier in the day about being selected as the league's Preseason Player of the Year.

'It means something just to get that recognition and all that stuff for the program but in the end it really doesn't mean a thing if I don't go out there on the court and produce like I should and help the team win,' Vaden said. 'Right now it means something but in a few weeks, when games start, it really won't mean too much.'

He was joined on the All-C-USA team by Memphis forward Robert Dozier, Central Florida guard Jermaine Taylor, Tulsa center Jerome Jordan and UTEP guard Stefon Jackson.

UAB was picked to finish second behind Memphis. C-USA officials released only the top five teams in the voting with Tulsa, UTEP and Southern Miss rounding out the five.

Vaden averaged 21.1 points per game in his first season at UAB. He broke school records for points (695), 3-pointers made (142) and 3-pointers attempted (355) and set the C-USA records in 3-pointers made and attempted. He was also second in the nation in made 3-pointers.

He originally put his name in the NBA Draft pool, performing well in draft camps and individual workouts, before deciding to return for his final college season.

Vaden said he expects teams will focus on him after his performance last year and in the pre-draft workouts.

'I think there is going to be a big target on my back,' Vaden said. 'I think I'm well prepared for it. I've been in the gym. I'll be prepared for anything people throw my way.'

Vaden is expected to join Davis and teammates Paul Delaney III and Lawrence Kinnard at the C-USA Basketball Media Day on Thursday in Memphis. Check out Irvine's blog at blog.al.com/offthevine. sirvine@bhamenws.com

Courtesy of http://www.al.com/uabbasketball

*****************************************************
  PBL   


Arenafootball2 and Premier Basketball League announce joint venture - by Eurobasket News
The Premier Basketball League (PBL) and the arenafootball2 League (af2) announced today that the organizations have entered into a joint venture agreement.

'We are proud to become associated with such a first class organization as af2. Combining the resources of both the af2 and the PBL creates a recognizable winning atmosphere,' stated PBL Chairman Dr. Sev Hrywnak.

The PBL and af2 will work together to offer premier marketing partnership opportunities for sponsors and advertisers as well as combining forces on other projects.

'By combining the top leagues in our respective sports, we are able to offer sponsors and advertisers avenues to the much sought after sport demographic throughout the entire year, rather than just a single sport season,' stated PBL CEO Thomas Doyle.

'We (af2) are pleased about this opportunity to team up with the Premier Basketball League,' said af2 President Jerry Kurz. 'This is a unique relationship that will greatly increase the value of our respective brands which in turn will only serve to benefit our current and potential partners. We look forward to a long and mutually beneficial association.'

With the recent announcement of the formation of the @SPORTS TV Network by the Premier Basketball League and Fusion Communications, PBL games will be seen by a audience throughout the United States and abroad.

'As the network continues to grow and additional content is added, the ability to provide an unmatched package to sponsors and advertisers by the PBL and af2 will drive significant revenues to both the PBL and af2,' added Dr. Hrywnak. 'The combination of multiple professional sports leagues, national television and year round exposure, makes the af2-PBL affiliation a very unique marketing package.'

The joint venture agreement will not be limited to just sponsorship and marketing, there are plans for joint multi-media involvement together as well as other business related issues that will benefit members of both leagues

For further information on the PBL contact the Premier Basketball League Chicago, IL office at (773) 844-7251 or info@pblproball.com. For league information visit www.pblproball.com.

Courtesy of PBL

Battle Creek Knights named Brett Jones assistant general manager - by Eurobasket News
The professional basketball team, today, October 14th, 2009, announce the promotion of Brett Jones to assistant general manager. Brett is in his 5th year with the Knights.

He spent the first two years in various operation roles, before being promoted to equipment manager in 2007. Brett is currently pursuing his bachelor degree in Biological Sciences, and will graduate in the fall of 2009. 'Brett has earned this promotion and will be an asset to the front office staff of the Knights,' stated, David Darkey, Battle Creek Knights general manager.
The Battle Creek Knights will have the 9th and 18th picks in the 2nd Premier Basketball League draft on Thursday, October 16th, at the ESPN Sports Zone in Chicago, IL. The draft will be viewed on television and the internet. Further detailed information on the PBL draft will be released soon.

Sir Jam a Lot, Battle Creek Knights mascot, will be a participator in the Marshall Michigan, Scarecrow Festival Children's Parade at 12:30 p.m., Saturday, October 18th, 2008.

Coming soon, www.bcknights.com will have a new and exciting outlook that the fans of the team will enjoy even more.

Battle Creek Knights are hosting a free agent/mini camp Friday, October 24th, 6 to 8 p.m. and Saturday, October 25th, 8:30 a.m. to 4 p.m., 2008, at the Salvation Army Gymnasium, 1215 E. Fulton, Grand Rapids, Michigan. For more information on the camp, contact head coach, Terry Sare, at 616-889-1693 or the Knights team offices at 269-965-5001,

Courtesy of The Battle Creek Knights

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


RP TEAM - by Benny Lirio


RP TEAM - by Benny Lirio


RP TEAM - by Benny Lirio


RP TEAM - by Benny Lirio


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


Standings - Proliga
Proliga Standings
 1. Esgueira 3-0 
 2. Angra 2-1 
 3. Sangalhos 2-1 
 4. Queluz 2-1 
 5. Sampaense 2-1 
 6. Maia 1-2 
 7. Seixal 1-2 
 8. Illiabum 1-2 
 9. Atletico 1-2 
 10. Galitos FC 0-2 
 11. Electrico FC 0-3 
 12. Barcelos 0-3 


MVP of the rounds 2 and 3 in Proliga - by Bruno Baltazar
In Proliga this weekend was Robert Hines (196-F, college: St.Francis,NY) who showed everyone he is a serious contender to be the biggest player in the league,guiding his team of Angra to 2 wins.
2.nd round

MVP Global Robert Hines, Angra/Palmeiraspark, 35 of valorization
Did 26 pts, 12 rebounds, 3 assists, 5 steals and 1 block .

MVP National Mohamed Camara, Queluz, 26 of valorization
15 pts, 7 rebounds, 5 steals, 3 blocks and 2 assists.


5 IDEAL
1: Jorge Afonso, Queluz, 19 of valorization
18 pontos, 3 reboundss, 2 assists and 2 steals.

2: Miles Daniels, Illiabum,
8 three pts shots made. 29 pts, 3 rebounds, 4 assists and 3 steals.

3: Jonathan Walker, Elctrico FC,
23 pts, 10 rebounds and 1 steal.

4: Kevin Jolley, Sampaense/Tecoimbra
23 pts, 6 rebounds and 2 steals.

5, Robert Hines, Angra/Palmeiraspark



3th round

MVP Global Robert Hines, Angra/Palmeiraspark, 45 of valorization
40 pts, 8 rebounds,1steal,1 assist.


MVP National Pedro Amorim, Maia Basket
23 pts, 13rebounds and 1 block and 1 assist.

5 IDEAL

1: Jos Gomes, Maia Basket
25 pts, 3 rebounds, 6 assists and 2 steals

2: Timothy Bush, Galitos FC
31 pts, 14 rebounds, 3 assists and 1 steal.

3: Kevin Jolley, Sampaense/Tecoimbra
19 pts, 10 rebounds, 3 assists, 2 steals and 2 blocks.

4: Robert Hines, Angra/Palmeiraspark

5: Anthony Oha, Esgueira/Oli
24 pts, 13 rebounds and 2 blocks

Round 2 and 3 MVP of LPB - by Bruno Baltazar
The 2nd and 3rd round told us Greg Stempin is still a great player in our league and Tyrekus Bowman (196-F-86, college: Augusta St.) (196-F-86, college: Augusta St.) from Barreirense guided them to 2 wins in the weekend.

2nd round

MVP Global Gregory Stempin, Ovarense Dolce Vita
27 pts, 8 rebounds, 3 assists, 2 blocks and 1 steal.

MVP National Carlos Dias, Fsica Torres Vedras
16 pts, 14 rebounds, 5 assists and 1 steal.

5 IDEAL

1: Diogo Carreira, Sport Lisboa Benfica
17 pts, 2 reboundss, 3 assists and 1 steal.

2: Chadwick McKenzie, Barreirense/UNILOGOS
30 pts, 6 rebounds, 2 steals ,1 block and 1 assist.

3: Gregory Stempin, Ovarense Dolce Vita

4: Willie Taylor, V. Guimares
33 pts, 4 assists and 2 rebunds

5: Seth Doliboa, Sport Lisboa Benfica
25 pts, 9 rebounds, 3 assists, 3 blocks and 1 steal.


3rd round

MVP Global Tyrekus Bowman, Barreirense/UNILOGOS
23 pts, 11 rebounds, 2 steals, 1 block and 1 assist.

MVP National Ailton Medeiros, Belenenses
13 pts, 9 rebounds, 2 assists and 2 steals.

5 IDEAL

1: Francisco Fernandes, CAB Madeira SAD
15 pts, 5 reboundss, 3 assists and 2 steals.

2: Jason Smith, CAB Madeira SAD, 25 de valorizao
27 pts, 1 rebound, 2 steals.

3: Tyrekus Bowman, Barreirense/UNILOGOS

4: Ricardo Hill, AD Vagos
22 pts, 10 rebounds, 6 assists, 2 steals and 1 block.

5: Ailton Medeiros, Belenenses

*****************************************************
  PUERTO RICO   


Captains Reach Finales in Venezuelan Tournament - by Luis Ramirez
The Arecibo Captains have gained a finals berth as they beat Policia Nacional of Honduras 102-81. It was David Cortes with 25 points for the Captains who led the way followed by Angel Figueroa with 23 points. The Captains will face Houston Blaze in this Finals Game.

In other news, Angelo Reyes (205-F/C-81) is currently the leading scorer in the Uruguayan League, he is just coming off a victory in which he scored 27 points captured 10 rebounds in 39 minutes of play. Currently he is averaging 23.6 ppg; he is second in rebounds with 13.2 rpg.

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  ROMANIA   


Meshcharakou's effort is not enough in Ploiesti - by Eurobasket News
CSU Asesoft Ploiesti -Spartak St. Petersburg 79:76

Yegor Meshcharakou (205-F-76, agency: Octagon, college: George Washington)'s effort was not enough in Ploiesti for Spartak St. Petersburg in the EuroChallenge Cup Qualifying Round 1. CSU Asesoft Ploiesti beat Spartak St. Petersburg 79:76 and will have plus 3 before game 2. Catalin Burlacu (210-C-77, agency: Court Side) led the winners with 19 points. Darius Hargrove (193-G-82, agency: Global Sports Plaza, college: Virginia Union) nailed 12, while Dwayne Curtis (203-C-85, agency: Global Sports Plaza, college: Mississippi) posted 11. Yegor Meshcharakou shined with 28 points and 4 rebounds in defeat, while Andrew Wisniewski (191-G-81, college: Centenary) collected 11 points and 10 boards.
CSU Asesoft Ploiesti started easily and Griffith made 5-0 in the beginning of the first quarter. Spartak St. Petersburg woke up immediately and trailed only 1 point at the end of the first. Wheeler made a three-pointer for 25:24 home lead. The game remained tough later in the half and it was expected another battle in the second. Anyway Andrew Wisniewski made a jump-shot for 42:38 at the halfftime.
CSU Asesoft Ploiesti continued to lead the game but enjoyed only 5-7 points in the third. Andrew Wisniewski closed the third period at 61:56. The most interesting part of the game was in the middle of the last period when Joseph Blair (208-C/F-74, college: Arizona) tied the game at 72:72. CSU Asesoft Ploiesti desired to win a bit more and after Catalin Burlacu scored five more the game finished at 79:76 for the home side.

CSU Asesoft Ploiesti: Catalin Burlacu 19, Darius Hargrove 12, Dwayne Curtis 11
Spartak St Petersburg: Yegor Meshcharakou 28+4 rebs, Andrew Wisniewski 11+10 rebs, Joseph Blair 9

*****************************************************
  RUSSIA   


Meshcharakou's effort is not enough in Ploiesti - by Eurobasket News
CSU Asesoft Ploiesti -Spartak St. Petersburg 79:76

Yegor Meshcharakou (205-F-76, agency: Octagon, college: George Washington)'s effort was not enough in Ploiesti for Spartak St. Petersburg in the EuroChallenge Cup Qualifying Round 1. CSU Asesoft Ploiesti beat Spartak St. Petersburg 79:76 and will have plus 3 before game 2. Catalin Burlacu (210-C-77, agency: Court Side) led the winners with 19 points. Darius Hargrove (193-G-82, agency: Global Sports Plaza, college: Virginia Union) nailed 12, while Dwayne Curtis (203-C-85, agency: Global Sports Plaza, college: Mississippi) posted 11. Yegor Meshcharakou shined with 28 points and 4 rebounds in defeat, while Andrew Wisniewski (191-G-81, college: Centenary) collected 11 points and 10 boards.
CSU Asesoft Ploiesti started easily and Griffith made 5-0 in the beginning of the first quarter. Spartak St. Petersburg woke up immediately and trailed only 1 point at the end of the first. Wheeler made a three-pointer for 25:24 home lead. The game remained tough later in the half and it was expected another battle in the second. Anyway Andrew Wisniewski made a jump-shot for 42:38 at the halfftime.
CSU Asesoft Ploiesti continued to lead the game but enjoyed only 5-7 points in the third. Andrew Wisniewski closed the third period at 61:56. The most interesting part of the game was in the middle of the last period when Joseph Blair (208-C/F-74, college: Arizona) tied the game at 72:72. CSU Asesoft Ploiesti desired to win a bit more and after Catalin Burlacu scored five more the game finished at 79:76 for the home side.

CSU Asesoft Ploiesti: Catalin Burlacu 19, Darius Hargrove 12, Dwayne Curtis 11
Spartak St Petersburg: Yegor Meshcharakou 28+4 rebs, Andrew Wisniewski 11+10 rebs, Joseph Blair 9

Toronto Raptors beat CSKA in Air Canada Centre - by Eurobasket News

Toronto Raptors - CSKA Moscow 86-78

Reining Euroleague and Russian champion CSKA Moscow ended its North American tour seriously challenging to become the second European team ever who suceeded to beat an NBA one at its own floor. CSKA demonstrated much better performance than it was in the first game against Orlando Magic. Russian powerhouse had great 20 minutes finishing the first half 38-47. The biggest problem for CSKA was injury of the captain Matjaz Smodis (205-F-79), who sprained his ankle after 2 minutes, as well as foul troubles of Terence Morris (206-F-79, college: Maryland), who spent on 12 minutes on the court before he fouled out. Toronto's Jermaine O'Neal (211-F-78) and Chris Bosh (211-F-84, college: Georgia Tech) took advantage on that tying the score on 55-55 with 2:46 remaining in third frame. NBA team opened last stanza with impressive 13-2 run. Chris Bosh netted 6 of these 13. It was not the end of this game for CSKA. Former Duke University star Trajan Langdon (192-G-76, college: Duke) stepped up for his team cutting the margin on 80-76 with 1:53 to go. Unfortunately to the Russians, Chris Bosh and Jermaine O'Neal immediately answered with two baskets at the following Toronto's possessions resolving the question about the winner. Chris Bosh was the key player for Toronto draining 24 points and pulling down 10 rebounds. Jose Manuel Calderon (190-G-81) helped his team with 14 points and six assists, while Andrea Bargnani (209-F/C-85) and Jermaine O'Neal had 11 points apiece. Ramunas Siskauskas (197-G-78) scored a team-high 15 points for CSKA. Viktor Khryapa (204-F/G-82), who had 13 points and a game-best 11 rebounds, while Erazem Lorbek (210-F/C-84, college: Michigan St.) had 14 points. Above mentioned Trajan Langdon as well as Zoran Planinic (198-G-82) finished the game with 10 points each.

Toronto: Chris Bosh 24+10 boards, Jose Manuel Calderon 14+6 as, Andrea Bargnani 11, Jermaine O'Neal 11
CSKA: Ramunas Siskauskas 15, Erazem Lorbek 14, Viktor Khryapa 13+11 boards, Trajan Langdon 10, Zoran Planinic 10

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  SERBIA   


Ivan Paunic and his Oostende great in Moscow against Triumph - by Dragan Jankovski
EuroCup Qualifying Round 1 started yesterday. Except of FMP, more Serbian representatives (not teams) took a part at this stage of the competition. The biggest surprise for sure made Serbian colony is Belgian Base BC Oostenede, which succeeded to survive in Moscow against $6 million dollars acquisition Nenad Krstic (214-C-83) and his teammates. When Jimmy Baxter (198-G-80, college: S.Florida) nailed a three in the opening tip, 2500 spectators seemed nothing to worry about but at the end of the first period however they were shocked as Ivan Paunic (194-G-87) made it for 15:31. BC Triumph Lyubertsy woke up in the beginning of the second period and had 9-0 run to reduce the gap. Right before the break Kerem Tunceri (190-G-79) pulled the hosts back for 45:46. Base BC Oostende went on a lead again later in the third and enjoyed 57:61 entering the last frame. The visitors remained in front until the last two minutes when Alan Anderson (198-G/F-82, college: Michigan St.) tied at 72:72. Bremer's free throws set up the final, 78:78 draw. Nenad Krstic shined in Triumph collecting 13 points and 10 rebounds. On of the heroes in Oostende for sure is Ivan Paunic, who spent 19 minutes on the court draining 12 points with only one missed shot (2/2 FG2, 2/3 3-pts, 2/2 FTs). The other Serbian in Oostende Veselin Petrovic (194-G/F-77, agency: Beo Basket) had 2 poinst for 32 minutes while Slobodan Ljubotina (207-F/C-84, agency: Beo Basket) got two minutes from the head coach Vlada Vukoicic. This is excellent result for Oostende, who has a great chance to eliminate Triumph in Belgium next week.

Latvian ASK Riga was better than French Cholet 69-62. Milutin Aleksic (202-F-82) scored 15 poinst for Latvians.

Serbian tandem Dejan Milojevic (200-F-77, agency: Beo Basket) - Milan Gurovic (207-F-76, agency: Beo Basket) was fantastic for Galatasaray Cafe Crown. The Turkish team played on the road against Lithuanian Siauliai 73-73 having a nice chance to reach the second stage. Milojevic netted 20 points while Gurovic had 9.

Panelinions played vs Telekom Basket Bonn in Athens winning with big plus 15, 69-54. Ivan Radenovic (208-F-84, college: Arizona) had 5 points for the hosts while Stevan Nadjfeji (202-F-79) stopped on 3.

Second legs are scheduled for October 21st.

The Tulips ink American Charron Fisher - by Dragan Jankovski
Vojvodina Srbijagas finally closed its roster for 08/09. New member of the Tulips became 22-year old American Charron Fisher (193-G/F-85, agency: CAA Sports), who can be used on positions 2 and 3. Fisher is coming to Novi Sad from Niagara University as its leading player. Since he joined Niagara, Fisher constantly improved his digits from year to year. He started with 5.6 ppg and 3.2 rpg in 04/05 while a year later he jumped to 18.3 ppg and 7.9 rpg. Fisher ended senior season with 27.9 ppg and 9.5 rpg for 29 games in NCAA1. At the end of the year he was named 'NABC Division I All-District 2 First Team -08'. In 2005 and 2007 his school was MAAC Tournament Winner and he twice was named 'All-MAAC 1st Team'.

Vojvodina Srbijagas is the completely different team than it was the last season. The Tulips kept only Goran Bajic, Marko Pekovic, Velibor Buha, Ilija Pavkovic and Stefan Hajdukovic from 07/08. They agreed terms with Marko Popovic from Sloga, Jovan Zdravkovic, Miroslav Radenkovic, Danijel Cavic, Marko Jovanovic, Marko Sutalo, Darko Habus, Nikola Dronjak and Djordje Gagic. The biggest reinforcement during the summer for sure was Dejan Borovnjak, who arrived from Partizan Igokea. First round of regional championship brought the first joy for Vojvodina in Zagreb. After that, the team from Novi Sad suffered two defeats, against Buducnost and FMP.

Amsterdam edges BC FMP Zeleznik in the capital - by Eurobasket News
EclipseJet MyGuide Amsterdam- BC FMP Zeleznik 66:60

EclipseJet MyGuide Amsterdam beat BC FMP Zeleznik in the first leg of their EuroCup qualifier. The capital of Hollabd saw 66:60 tough win but the second game will be decisive. Teddy Gipson (193-G/F-80, agency: 540 Sports, college: Arkansas) led the winners with 22 points. Greene netted 14, while Avis Wyatt (211-F/C-84, college: Virginia St.) added 9. Dragan Labovic (207-C/F-87) ended up with 21 points in defeat, whilst Miroslav Raduljica (213-C-88, agency: CAA Sports) collected 12 points and 12 boards.
Dragan Labovic scored the first five points in the game for 5-0 run. The hosts replied with 6-0 and Harrison made it 6:5. It was him again to close the opening quarter at 19:17. Trailing 19:20 in the beginning of the second frame EclipseJet MyGuide Amsterdam created a 8-0 run for 27:20. Greene with a three sent the teams to the lockers for 37:27 advantage.
The hosts kept 10-point lead in the third period and had 55:45. It was Protic from the arc to be the last in the third period scorer. Samardziski reduced to 59:56 in the end of the game but EclipseJet MyGuide Amsterdam made the margin a bit bigger. The final score saw the hosts celebrating 66:60 victory.

EclipseJet MyGuide Amsterdam:Teddy Gipson 22, Greene 14, Avis Wyatt 9
BC FMP Zeleznik: Dragan Labovic 21, Miroslav Raduljica 12+12 rebs

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  SLOVENIA   


Zlatorog close to Round 2 of EuroChallenge Cup - by Zeljko Zule
Zlatorog is close to securing a spot in the EuroChallenge Cup Qualifying Round 2 following a 76-70 road win over Amak in the first game of Qualifying Round 1. Slovenian team played without injuried starting point guard Ali Berdiel and opened second half with a crucial 15-2 run with 10 straight points. Zlatorog outrebounded its oponnent 31-24 and shot 8-of-19 behind the arc while Amak had jus 18 percent (3-of-16) from the downtown.
Milos Miljkovic (205-C-84) finished with 18 points and 8 rebounds, Uros Lucic 15 of his 17 points posted before the half, Nejc Strnad all his 13 points including three 3-pointers netted in second half and Ante Masic and Tadej Kostomaj added 11 points apiece.

Olimpija releases Crawford, Helios inks Janza and tests Todorovic - by Zeljko Zule

Tyler Crawford (194-G/F-86, college: Georgetown) has left Union Olimpija to join Sloga Kraljevo. He averaged 12 minutes, 1,5 points, 2,0 rebounds, 0,5 assists, 0,5 steals and 1,0 turnovers in just 2 games of Adriatic League.
Helios re-signed Aljaz Janza (185-G-81) till end of the season and testing Montenegrin Ivan Todorovic (214-C/F-84, agency: 011 Sports) ex Kalev Cramo.

.



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  SOUTH KOREA   


SK Knights Try-Out New Player Before Season Finale - by Rick Ross

With less than 2 weeks before the opening of the 2008-2009
KBL basketball season SK Knights bring in DeAngelo Collins (206-F-82)
Position Center
Height Weight 6-10 245LBS
Hometown Inglewood California
High School Inglewood H.S
Its not quite clear if 2nd round drafted player Toree Morris (209-C-82, agency: Passing Lane)
is or has been let go by SK Knights , but it is quite clear that DeAngelo Collins is
In the Camp as published reports states on Korean Jumpball Magazine,

1st round pick for SK Knights Terrence Shannon (203-F-79, agency: N.E.T., college: Elgin CC)\
the number 6th pick will team up with new comer in days to come DeAngelo Collins pending
physicals and camp exhibition games,


Ross Rick



*****************************************************
  SPAIN   


Marcus Campbell to Los Barrios - by Francisco Martinez
Marcus Campbell (214-C-82, agency: SportsTalent, college: Mississippi St.) has reached an agreement with CB Villa de Los Barrios and he will become his import big man for the remainder of the season. The Andalusian team of Coach Moncho Fernandez is playing one of the dest defensive systems of the league, but they have not got any victory yet and their record is 0-4. With the adding of this center they expect to correct the main lack in the roster: a hard big boy.

Barca Lose Unbeaten Record at Granca in Round 4 - by Paul Nilsen
In an early game in Round 4 played on Tuesday night in Gran Canaria, the home team picked up their first home win of the new campaign with a 68-57 win over Regal Barcelona. The victory for Granca ended the unbeaten start to the season for Barca and leaves Tau as the only other team in the ACB with a 100 percent record.

Granca controlled the game from start to finish with some great hustle and fight. Their passion and tenacuty laid the platform for success with James Augustine (208-F-84, agency: Priority Sports, college: Illinois), as acb-basket.com identified in their preview, the key man.

The American ended up with 16 points and 5 rebounds while Carl English claimed 14 points. Young Brit Joel Freeland also impressed with 6 points and 7 boards in just 14 minutes.

However this was a terrific team performance, even if their outside shooting was terrible! After racing into a 23-18 first quarter lead which they extended to doubledigits at the break. Inspired by Juan Carlos Navarro who was fighting a lone battle for under par Barcelona on his way to 20 points, the visitors threatened to fightback but Granca held their nerve in the final period. Barca now depart for an NBA tournament in the States.

*****************************************************
  SWEDEN   


Standings - Basketligan
Basketligan Standings
 1. Uppsala 3-0 
 2. Norrkoping 2-0 
 3. Plannja 2-1 
 4. 08 2-1 
 5. Boras 2-1 
 6. Solna 2-1 
 7. Sundsvall 1-2 
 8. Sodertalje 1-2 
 9. Helsingborg 0-2 
 10. Gothia Basket 0-2 
 11. Jamtland 0-3 


Sodertlje loses to 08 Stockholm - by Frankie Afzelius

This was a game was part of the first round but had to be played now because of scheduling problems. Sodertlje hosted the tema they knocked out of the playoffs last season, 08 Stockholm. Tis was to be a hard fought game as both teams are lead by defensive minded coaches. 08 Stockholm was coming into the game missing two starters but tonight that didnt matter. As experienced Yasin Merzoug (183-G-79) showed the way by opening the game with a three and lead his team to victory. This was a game won on the defensive end, as both teams was forced to take long shots as well as rushed shots at the end of the shot clock. Going into the half, 08 Stockholm had a slim lead 29-28. They where being led by Joakim Blom (211-C-76, agency: Court Side) and Yasin Merzoug while Ted Skuchas (211-C-83, agency: Warren Sports International, college: Vanderbilt) was showing promise in the paint for the hosts. The second half showed much of the first, har fought game with 08 staying in the lead. Joakim Blom ended the third quarter with a buzzer three and started a 14-0 run for the visitors that pushed the lead to 17. After some missed freethrows, Yasin Merzoug having to leave the game with an injury and some big threes from Johan Jeansson and Thomas Massamba (185-G-85), Sodertlje clawed their way back but did not manage to pull out a win as Nils Hedstrom iced the game from the free throw line. Joakim Blom lead the way with 27, with Nils Hedstrom adding 16 and Yasin Merzoug 11. For the home team Johan Jeansson had 13 with Ted Skuchas and Thomas Massamba both pitching in with 11.


Sdertlje: Johan Jeansson 13, Ted Skuchas 11, Thomas Massamba 11, Tom Lidn 7, Adnan Chuk 6, Rickard Eriksson 6, Alexander Wikner-Nordberg 5, Dino Pita 3.


08 Stockholm: Joakim Blom 27, Nils Hedstrm 16, Yasin Merzoug 11, Mikael Lindquist 7, Andreas Karlsson 2, Nashid Beard 2, Omar Zaghden 2.



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  SWITZERLAND   


Latest signings in LNB - by Eurobasket News
Two LNB teams Etoile Sportive Vernier Meyrin and Martigny Rhone Basket decided to add the fresh blood to their rosters by inking two youngsters.

Etoile Sportive Vernier Meyrin inked Richard Parome, who can be used on positions 1 and 2. 16-year old Parome spent last season in Meyrin Basket. He supposes to make debut in Etoile Sportive Vernier Meyrin's jersey this week-end against Poly-Rapid Zrich Wildcats.

Martigny Rhone Basket announced signing of Baptiste Terrani, who also plays on PG/SG. He is two years older than above mentioned Parome. Terrani will also have the first game with Martigny Rhone Basket this week-end against Villars Basket.

Third round of LNA will be played on Saturday. Monthey, Vacallo and Herens will try to remain undefeated after it. Monthey will meet Fribourg on the road while Vacallo waits SAM Massagno. Herens will also play at home against Nyon. MGS, Boncourt and Lugano Tigers are the teams from the bottom of the standings. Each of these desperately looks for the first win. MGS or Lugano Tigers for sure will make it as these two will meet each other at MGS home court. Boncourt will take on Geneve Devils.

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  TURKEY   


Antalya Basket has a road win over Spartak Pleven - by Eurobasket News
Spartak Pleven -Antalya Basket 83:87

Antalya Basket traveled to Bulgaria and celebrated 83:87 over Spartak Pleven. the things were not so sweet in the third period when they trailed in the game, but 25-13 in the last stanza made the chances for them better to advance. Victor King (196-G-81, agency: Higher Vision Sports, college: Texas A&M) and Marcus Melvin (203-F-82, agency: Strategic Sports, college: N.Carolina St.) led the winners with 20 points each. Hadi Dogan (200-F-86) and Mustafa Bitim (206-F-75) finished the night with 10 points apiece. Ilja Stankov (198-F-76) top-scored in defeat with 22 points and Hrisimir Dimitrov (197-G/F-74, agency: Interperformances) scored 20.
Ilja Stankov made a three-pointer to open the game and then Spartak Pleven won the opening tip 11-2. Antalya Basket reduced the gap in the end of the first period and finished it with 23:20. Moreover Marcus Melvin tied the game at 23:23 as the teams started the second frame. Bulgarian side looked better anyway and extended the lead to 11 points at the halftime. Ilja Stankov with a three sent the teams to the lockers for 48:37. It was him again in the middle of the third to go for plus 15 as Spartak had 68:53. Hadi Dogan was the last to score in the third for 70:62. In the last frame the guests changed the game definitely and were dominating the full court. Victor King tied the game at 83:83 and then he made the final 87:83 victory for the visitors.

Spartak: Ilja Stankov 22,Hrisimir Dimitrov 20
Antalya Basket: Victor King 20, Marcus Melvin 20, Hadi Dogan 10, Mustafa Bitim 10

Pamukkale Unv. inks Travis Garrison - by Furkan Yunkul
Pamukkale Unv., will compete in Turkish Second League this year, agreed terms with 24-year-old American Power Forward Travis Garrison (203-F-84, agency: CAA Sports, college: Maryland). Garrison signed one-year contract with his new club. He will become one of the most important parts of the squad for this season. He is known as a threat from both inside and outside. Garrison played in Venezuela, Spain and South Korea before. He played most recently at Club Trouville in Uruguay.

Efes Pilsen beats Erdemir in a friendly game - by Furkan Yunkul
Efes Pilsen grabbed an easy victory against Erdemirspor in the last friendly game. In first period, Efes Pilsen led the score very early in the game and at end of first period, the score was 24-11. Throughout the second period, the teams traded baskets and after the first half, Efes was ahead with the score 39-29. Efes Pilsen kept dominating the game during second half and let their opponents score only 15 points. With this performance, the difference increased to 38 points and the Final score was 82-44. 4 players from Efes Pilsen scored over ten points in the game: Kerem Gonlum (208-C/F-77) 14, Bootsy Thornton (194-G-77, college: St.John's) 13, Charles Smith (193-G-75, college: N.Mexico) 11, Preston Shumpert (198-G-79, college: Syracuse) 11.

1.Period: 24-11
2.Period: 15-18
3.Period: 22-9
4.Period: 21-6

Standings - TB2L
TB2L Standings
Group A
 1. TED Istanbul 0-0 
 2. FMV Isik 0-0 
 3. Vestel 0-0 
 4. Golcuk 0-0 
 5. Bursa B-bol 0-0 
 6. Orman 0-0 
 7. Eyup 0-0 
 8. Akcakoca P. 0-0 
 9. Alpella 0-0 
 10. Edirne Genclik 0-0 
 11. Tekirdag 0-0 
 12. Pamukkale 0-0 
Group B
 1. Mulkiye 0-0 
 2. Beykoz 0-0 
 3. Duzce Genclik 0-0 
 4. Canakkale 0-0 
 5. Gelisim 0-0 
 6. Ankara Basket 0-0 
 7. Genc Banvit. 0-0 
 8. Usak 0-0 
 9. Pertevniyal 0-0 
 10. Tofas 0-0 
 11. ITU 0-0 
 12. Yesilyurt 0-0 


*****************************************************
  U.S. VIRGIN ISLANDS   


JUCO REPORT - by David Edole
The Junior College ranks are not teaming with Virgin Islanders like the past but several will be poised for a breakout season. The Juco season is scheduled to kick off this weekend.
Devon Peltier (178-G) was one of the shooting stars that I wrote about last season. The 5-foot-11 guard led Missouri State University West Plains to an all time best 27-5 record and a final rank of18th in the nations final NJCAA poll.
'Devon is one of the best shooters Junior College in the country,' said then MSU Coach Brian Ostermann. 'He was our leading scorer and while he was not named to the All-Region team, he deserved it!'
Peltier came off the bench for most of the season and did his best Vinnie 'Microwave' Johnson impersonation. He only played 18 minutes a game but he filled it up with limited attempts. Peltier nailed 10 three pointer in a win over Pensacola (Nov. 15) on his way to a career best 32 points. Peltier alo had a big 29-point effort versus Arkansas Baptist and added 28 more against North Lake CC.
This season, look for the sophomore to start and to play an even bigger role. MSU-West Plains play in a Jamboree this weekend but opens their season on October 31st versus Mesa Community College.

Khalid Gerard was the other shooting star but he will be sitting out this season due to personal reasons. Look for Gerard to be bigger and stronger in 2009-10 season. The 6-foot-4 guard finished his inaugural campaign with a 16-point per game average. He had four 38-point games and shot a sizzling 46% from beyond the arc. He only missed 12 free throws all season.
Former Florida Gulf coast Community College coach Jackson Dolor was impressed with Gerard play. 'His range is unlimited. I could see why he scored 500 points in his senior campaign. He does not need that much room to get a shot off.'
Gerard and Technical Career Institute, season came to an end in the semifinals of Region XV play.

THE NEW BLOOD
Clint Williams signed with Arkansas Baptist College (ABC) this past summer. The 6-foot-10 inch center has been enjoying his new hometown by supporting the Arkansas Razorbacks football team. ABC men's basketball team will open its season against the Ouachita Baptist junior varsity on campus this Saturday.
Jervan Jackson (196-F/G) has enrolled at Palm Beach Community College. The 6-foot-6 guard/forward was a graduate of South Dade HS in 2007 and prepped a year at South Kent Prep School. Palm Beach opens against Johnson and Wales Friday night.
Wilson Ferrance is all smiles at Marshalltown Community College. The 6-foot-3 guard has no complaints of moving to Iowa and cant wait to play his first college game this weekend. Ferrance was an all Virgin Islands Latin basket selection as a High School senior.

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  UBL   


UBL Wranglers invites 25 players to Vet Camp - by Ozzie Denson
The UBL Wranglers had their tryouts this pass weekend, Had a great turn out. Now comes the hard part. The Wranglers will invite 25 of the players that came to tryouts to their Vet Camps. All positions are open and we are looking to fill 15 spots. We have a great pool of players that can play in any League trying to make the Wranglers Team. They know the UBL is the League that moves its players on to the next level. The Wranglers this year will send 10 players to the NBA-DL. The level of play in the United Basketball League (UBL) catches the eyes of the NBA-DL Teams. And if you got what it takes(Come get Some!!!). Visit or site at www.ublwranglers.com or call Coach Denson 972-781-8120

*****************************************************
  UKRAINE   


Bank Skyliners are victorious in Ukraine - by Eurobasket News
MBC Nikolaev - Bank Skyliners 68:75

Bank Skyliners won the opener of their EuroChallenge Cup Qualifying Round 1 in Ukraine. The German side overcame MBC Nikolaev 68:75 to have better chances before Game 2 in Germany. Keith Simmons (196-G-85, college: Holy Cross) led the winners with 17 points and 13 rebounds. Pascal Roller (180-G-76) netted 15, while Gordon scored 14. Sergiy Gladyr (196-G/F-89) and Oleksandr Rayevskyy (185-G-76) top-scored for the home team with 15 points each.
Bank Skyliners went on an early lead and had 7-0 from the very beginning. Ukrainian team reduced the gap and Sergiy Gladyr made it 7:9. King closed the first period at 13:16 for the visitors. The second quarter started offensively from both squads and Oleksandr Rayevskyy tied the game at 30:30. Even though Pascal Roller was the last to score in the half MBC Nikolaev had 35:34 when the teams went to the lockers.
Bank Skyliners kept the Ukrainian team scoreless in the first three minutes of the third period. Keith Simmons extended the lead for his team at 53:39 later in the quarter. Oleksandr Rayevskyy still kept his team alive for 52:56 after the third period. With 19-16 in the last quarter Bank Skyliners won the opener of their EuroChallenge Cup Qualifying Round 1 in Ukraine. German team triumphed with 75:68 and now will need to keep the advantage in Game 2.

MBC Nikolaev: Sergiy Gladyr 15, Oleksandr Rayevskyy 15, Wilkins 13
Bank Skyliners: Keith Simmons 17+13 rebs, Pascal Roller 15, Gordon 14

*****************************************************
  UNITED KINGDOM   


Paez Back At Wolves - by Andy Webb
Worcester Wolves are thrilled to announce the return of Anthony Paez (198-F-84, agency: Rasmussen Services, college: Stephen F. Austin) to their squad with immediate effect. All the paperwork is in place and Anthony will suit up in the next game which is at home on Sunday afternoon against the Sheffield Sharks. Tickets are available, on the door for this BBL cup game which starts at 4.00 pm at the University of Worcester.

Paez himself, who was at training last night, and indeed watched the Wolves last game at the weekend as an interested spectator, said 'I'm real excited to be back playing again in Worcester. I had a phenomenal year last year with great support from the Wolves family and our fans and I am just looking forward to helping the Wolves have a successful year in the BBL.'

Wolves owner Roger Clarke went on 'Anthony is a player that you know what you are going to get from in every game. He was a BBL All star last year and he knows this year, even though we are happy for him to score massive points, our expectations are much higher than least season from a team perspective. We are pleased to have him back. Last year we competed hard and had some relative success but have yet to win BBL silverware, so do have work to do. Bringing back Anthony shows our intent to our fans and the rest of the BBL. We plan to add one more top quality British or European shooter as we are still evaluating players now. These changes should put us in the hunt.

Player coach Skouson Harker added' We had an opportunity this week to sign Anthony and we are absolutely delighted to sign him for the season ahead. As a player, Anthony lets his actions lead and he will be one of our captains this season along side Justin. Anthony is a winner and he is the type of guy that plays every game as he has something to prove to himself, his opponents and most importantly his team mates. To have him back is a massive credit to the Wolves Management team, fans, sponsors and the city of Worcester. Anthony Paez is an elite player in the BBL and he was the leading points scorer in the 2007 / 8 BBL season; he was the Slam Dunk champion at the NIA last spring and was the second player into the BBL coaches all star team. I am sure he will prove this once again and in doing so, we are sure to climb up the BBL table exactly as we did last year.

Paez's worth to the Wolves can easily be seen by last years stats which show that he played all 40 games; played the most minutes in each game at 37.8 (out of 40;)scored the most points at 960 at an average of 24; contributed 7 rebounds a game; 2.2 assists and 1.7 steals. His work at the defensive end of the court cannot be under estimated either. Wolves have struggled with three point shooting this year and the return of Anthony will be a big bonus in this area. It is no wonder that he was in demand with other clubs in the BBL, major European sides and even teams from all around the world expressed an interest in gaining his signature.

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  URUGUAY   


Malvin defeated the leader, Atenas - by Hector Lopez
Fernando Martinez (170-G-79, agency: Interperformances) scored 31 points and Joaquin Izuibejeres (184-G-82) added 29 when Malvin beat Atenas, the LUB leader, 93-86. But nevertheless Atenas maintained a two points lead over Defensor Sporting after its defeat with Trouville 99-87. The results for the 15th round and numers for import players were:
Trouville 99 - Levi Stukes (188-G-84) 27 points and 4 rebounds, Ollie Bailey (201-F-85, college: Oklahoma City) 25 and 9
Defensor 87 - Chris Jackson (208-C-81, college: N.Mexico St.) 16 and 15, Brian Woodward (191-G-81, agency: Passing Lane, college: Rhode Island) 31 and 8
- -
Tabare 88 - Clarence Matthews (201-F-82, agency: 22ft, college: Tennessee St.) 17 and 9, Ryan Blankson (198-F-80, agency: Interperformances, college: Loyola, IL) 17 and 13
Bohemios Gilsinho de Jesus (195-F/G-79, college: Kansas St.) 12 and 2, Albert Burditt (203-F-72, college: Texas) 7 and 8
- - -
Cordon 102 - Andrew Washington (191-G-84, agency: Promotex, college: Delaware) 28 and 3, Chris Sockwell (203-F/C-80, college: St.Francis,NY) 32 and 8
Bigua 91 - Kevin Young (206-C-84, college: Missouri) 14 and 4, Duke Freeman-McKamey (208-F-80, college: Fordham) 13 and 8
- - -
Hebraica 111 - Angelo Reyes (205-F/C-81) 27 and 10, Roland Roberts 21 and 11
Olimpia 91 - Greg Dilligard (203-F-85, agency: Warren Sports International) 10 and 8, Reque Newsome (203-C-82, college: S.Indiana) 27 and 8
- - -
Union Atletica 88 - Tarrie Monroe (202-F-77, agency: R.H.Consultancy, college: Lewis) 22 and 13, Daryl Rufus (207-C-82, agency: HM Sports Agency, college: Fayetteville St.) 16 and 5
Welcome 76 - JR Morris (196-G-82, college: Seton Hall) 9 and 4, Brad Kanis (218-C-84) 16 and 10
- - -
Sayago 69 - Howard Wilkerson (198-F-84, college: Wofford) 16 and 10, Brandon Hassell (209-F-86, agency: Warren Sports International, college: Penn St.) 10 and 10
Paysandu 59 - Gyasi Cline-Heard (202-F-79, college: Penn St.) 28 and 5, Austin Montgomery (196-G, college: Bowling Green) 7 and 0
- - -
Malvin 93 - Anthony Washington (206-F/C-83, agency: Duran International, college: Portland St.) 0 and 10, Jarrett Stephens (200-F/C-77, agency: Duran International, college: Penn St.) 12 and 10
Atenas 86 - Marques Lewis (203-F-83, college: UAB) 24 and 10, Darryl Dora (206-F-85, agency: Warren Sports International, college: Texas Tech) 6 and 4

Standings - LUB
LUB Standings
 1. Atenas 12-3 
 2. Defensor 10-5 
 3. Hebraica 10-5 
 4. Tabare 10-5 
 5. Olimpia 9-6 
 6. Malvin 9-6 
 7. Trouville 8-7 
 8. Bigua 8-7 
 9. Bohemios 6-8 
 10. Sayago 5-9 
 11. Paysandu 5-10 
 12. Un.Atletica 5-10 
 13. Cordon 4-11 
 14. Welcome 3-12 




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Women News

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  BULGARIA - Women  


Vera Perostiyska is MVP of Round 1 - by Eurobasket News
Vera Perostiyska (196-C-82, college: Florida Intern.) of Montana 2003 is named MVP of Round 1. Her team suffered defeat against reining Bulgarian champion Dunav Ekont 51-87 but Perostiyska was on a great level. She spent the entire time on the court draining 17 points and grabbing 12 rebounds. She also added 7 blocked shots, 4 assists and 2 steals reaching index value 31. Perostiyska's shot percentage was pretty good 5/12 FG2 and 7/7 FTs.

The second round of Bulgarian A league is scheduled for today. At 17h NSA Delta will host Dunav Ekont. NSA suffered devastating defeat in the opening round against Lukoil Neftochimik thus Dunav is a big favorite in this game. Montana 2003 and Beroe 07 will play at 17:30h. There Vera Perostiyska and her teammates will have a chance to grab the first win. Beroe 07 demonstrated nice performance in the first game against Tony 7. New participant of A league Minor Pernik will play at home against Rilski Sportist. As a reminder, during the summer Minor succeeded to sign Asenova, Doychinova, Mihalkova and Nesheva meaning that this game most probably will be the interesting one. Minor was free in the first round. In the last game of round 4, with start at 18h, Slavia waits Lukoil Neftochimik.

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  EUROLEAGUE - Women  


Euroleague starts. The preview - by Carlo Grilli
The 2008-2009 Women Euroleague starts today. Check the preview, group by group.

Group A
Bourges seems favourite; its solid national-players structure (Melain, Ndongue, Dumerc) will be a strong starting point. Krakow is a raising team, with Holdsclaw and Fernandez on fire; Pecs lost some atout (Fegyverneky and coach Ratgeber) but remains a solid team, especially at home. Salamanca will have one of the most spectacular players in Europe, Michelle Snow (196-C-80, agency: Merit Sports, college: Tennessee); Nadezhda Orenburg and Besiktas are the newcomers at this level.

Group B
CSKA Moscow wants to fill the gap versus historical rival Spartak: Douglas and Janel McCarville (188-C-82, college: Minnesota) will enforce the (yet) tremendous power of the Russian squad. The Czech Champions of Brno acquired Fegyverneky and Jansone to clinch another Final Four berth. Sopron, Villeneuve dAscq and Venezia (with new powerful center Hayden) will be the outsiders.

Group C
Valencia is the favourite. The Spanish outfit signed Valdemoro, Montanana, Jana Vesela (194-F-83) and Vecerova, and kept Milton-Jones on the paint. Ekaterinburg added Pondexter in the backcourt and will also compete for the first rank in the group. Hainaut (meltdown of past Saint-Amand and Valenciennes) presented a solid roster, and also Gdynia (Matovic, Podrug) will not be a sparring partner. Prague and Sibenik can both doing well.

Group D
Spartak Moscow is at the top of the spot, no doubts; Laszlo Ratgeber replaced Natalja Hejkova as head coach. Kosice completed the virtual Slovak NT with Cathrine Kraayeveld (193-F-81, agency: LBM Management, college: Oregon), Spencer and Frlich. Schio brings the Italian challenge by Macchi, Masciadri, Braxton and Martinez. TEO Vilnius (Petronyte), Fenerbahce (Yilmaz) and Montpellier (Mosch) will seek to advance to the next round.

Qualifying Round. Day 1 - by Eurobasket News
CSKA - Lille Metropole 96:44

Russian powerhouse CSKA left no chance for the visiting Lille Metropole in the Euroleague opener in Moscow. CSKA newcomer Katie Douglas (183-G/F-79, college: Purdue) dropped 20 points to pace the hosts. Janel McCarville ensured 6 points, while Olexandra Gorbunova netted 11 points in their debuts. Katie Douglas and Maria Stepanova (202-C-79) accounted for 9 unanswered points to tip off the game. Douglas later capped the first frame with 6 straight points and CSKA led 27:6. Lille struggled to find the right tempo and soon Janel McCarville and Ilona Korstine (183-G-80) extended the margin to 31 points. Ann Wauters converted a free throw and sealed the first half outcome at 49:16. Gorbunova dropped 5 points in a 9:0 rally from the hosts to begin the third frame. Lille managed only 7 points in the third term and trailed by unassailable 52 points. The teams cruised to the final whistle with CSKA stopping just whisker away from 100-point mark. Jolene Anderson (173-G-86, agency: Regeneracom Sports, college: Wisconsin) nailed 16 points for Lille. Geraldine Robert (184-F-80) knocked down 10 points and collected 9 rebounds in the loss.
CSKA will next take on TTT Riga in Latvia. Lille will try to rebound at home against Czech Gambrinus.

CSKA: Katie Douglas 20, Liudmila Sapova (185-F-84) 16, Ilona Korstine 12
Lille Metropole: Jolene Anderson 16, Geraldine Robert 10

Nadezhda -TS Wisla Krakow 79:80
Wisla Can-Pack Krakow started EuroLeague campaign with an overtime win over Russian Nadezhda 79:80 in Orenburg, Russia. Taking 21-13 from the start the Polish side could not keep the advantage at the end of the fourth period and won only in overtime. Chamique Holdsclaw (188-F-77, agency: Merit Sports, college: Tennessee) paced all the winners with 20 points and 7 rebounds. Fernandez nailed 19, while Dominique Canty (175-G/F-77, agency: Merit Sports, college: Alabama) scored 13. Shameka Christon (186-G/F-82, college: Arkansas) top-scored for the hosts with 21 points, while Verameyenka Anastasiya collected 20 points and 10 rebounds.
Wisla Can-Pack Krakow scored the first four points in the game and had 13-6 later in the first. The guests dominated in the court and produced 21:13 by the end of the first. Kobryn made it 25:15 in the middle of the second, but Nadezhda bounced back to 4 points gap. The teams went to the lockers for 33:37 for the visitors.
The home side tied the game at the end of the third period when Verameyenka Anastasiya posted 2 for 55:55. The game became more interesting for the next 15 minutes as the fourth quarter was not the last. It was Verameyenka Anastasiya again to tie the game at the end of the fourth for 71:71. Burik brought her team to 79:76 with 48 seconds in the game. Fernandez reduced it first to the minimum and then Wielebnowska brought the first win for the Polish side.

Nadezhda: Shameka Christon 21, Verameyenka Anastasiya 20+10 rebs, Teilane-Tamane Zane 14+12 rebs
Wisla Krakow: Chamique Holdsclaw 20+7 rebs, Fernandez 19, Dominique Canty 13

Bourges Basket - Besiktas Cola Turka 79:49
Bourges Basket overcame Besiktas Cola Turka in the opener of Euroleague 2008/2009. French champions were too good at home taking 79:49 victory. Alessandra Santos (200-C-73) led the winners with 19 points and 9 rebounds. Nwal Endene Miyem (188-F-88) netted 16, while Catherine Melain (184-F-74) collected 10 points and 10 rebounds. Laura Harper (193-F/C-86, college: Maryland) ended up with 18 points and 13 rebounds, while Shay Doron (175-G-85, college: Maryland) scored 12.
The final score could not show the whole picture of the game. Dumerc made the score 4-0 from the start for the hosts. French champions led 11:5 throughout the period but then Besiktas Cola Turka finished the quarter at 7-0 run. In the second period the game remained tough and only after 23-17 in it Bourges Basket had 34:29 at the halftime.
Bourges, leading 34:31 at the start of the third quarter got a basket from Alessandra Santos and three-balls from Celine Dumerc and Catherine Melain to start a 16-2 run that the Turkish club never recovered from. A 22-11 in the third lifted Bourges up to 56:40 after the third period. With a 23-9 the French side finished the game and took 1-0 record in Group A. Turkish side had good thoughts about the beginning of the game but could not stay in race for the first win in the opener.

Bourges Basket: Alessandra Santos 19+9 rebs, Nwal Endene Miyem 16, Catherine Melain 10+10 rebs
Besiktas Cola Turka: Laura Harper 18+13 rebs, Shay Doron 12

TTT Riga - MKB Euroleasing 71:86
The Hungarian champions MKB Euroleasing got to a perfect start of their Euroleague campaign. They defeated TTT Riga away from home to take the lead in preliminary Group B. Dora Horti (195-C-87) and Kathleen Macleod (166-G-86) set the tone early in the game as MKB jumped to a 4:0 lead. TTT Riga however quickly denied the deficit and the teams exchanged the baskets throughout the quarter. Kathleen Macleod capped the first frame with a jumper to give the Hungarian side a 24:23 lead at the first intermission. Ratkaine and Amber Holt (183-G/F-85, college: Middle Tenn.St.) stretched the gap to to 9 points at the start of the second period. MKB Euroleasing dominated the second quarter and enjoyed a 6-point advantage at halftime. But TTT Riga refused to give up. Tatyana Troina (188-F/C-81, college: S.Carolina) and Brumermane cut the deficit to just a single point with one quarter remaining. The teams kept it close throughout the fourth term before Dora Horti, Horvath and Amber Holt ignited an 8:0 run to give the visitors a decisive 11-point cushion with under 2 minutes left. Dora Horti finished with 16 points and 10 boards for MKB Euroleasing. Kathleen Macleod and Amber Holt added 16 points apiece for the winners. Tatyana Troina answered with 21 points for the hosts. Essence Carson (183-G-86, college: Rutgers) secured 17 points in the losing case.
TTT Riga will next face CSKA Moscow at home. MKB Euroleasing will travel to Italy to take on Umana Reyer in the second round.

TTT Riga: Tatyana Troina 21, Essence Carson 17
MKB Euroleasing: Dora Horti 16+10 boards, Kathleen Macleod 16, Amber Holt 16


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  EUROPEAN CHAMPIONSHIPS - Women  


Groups are known for EuroBasket Women 2009 - by Eurobasket News
Latvia will host EuroBasket Women 2009 from 7-20 June in the cities of Riga, Liepaja and Valmiera. Fourteen teams have already booked a spot at EuroBasket Women 2009 and two more get their ticket in January when they play in the Additional Qualifying Round, which was also drawn.
Additional Qualifying Round will consist of two groups, A and B. Bulgaria, Ukraine and Germany will battle for the only place from group A. Croatia, Belgium and Italy will be in Group B.
The Final Round will consist of four groups with four teams in each. So far we know full groups B and C. Greece, Latvia, Poland and Hungary settled down in Group B. Lithuania, Russia, Turkey and Serbia are in a tough Group C. Czech Republic, Spain and Slovak Republic are waiting for the Qualifier A. Belarus, France and Israel are awaiting for Qualifier B.
In 2007 Russia overcame Spain 74:68 in the final of the 2007 EuroBasket Women. Ilona Korstine (183-G-80) led the way for Russia with 18 points while Tatiana Shchegoleva (195-F/C-82) chipped in 14 points off the bench including the decisive lay-up with 13 seconds remaining after Spain had missed a chance to trim the margin to two points 10 seconds earlier. Those were memories from the previous year, but now all the thoughts about the upcoming EuroBasket Women 2009.

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  FINLAND - Women  


FINNISH CUP: Huima beat Catz 76-61 - by Rauno Hurmalainen

Finnish Cup, Quarter-Finals: Huima (Aanekoski) beat last season Finnish Cup winner Catz (Lappeenranta) 76-61 so there will be a new Cup winner
in the middle of December. Huima was winning the rebounds 48-35 and had five players in double figures. Carrie Bacon (182-F-80, college: Wyoming) led Huima with 20 pts. Catz had only Yelena Solovyeva (188-C-75) (21/15) and Elena Reshetko (184-C-86) (19) over 10 pts. PeKa (Kotka) lost again vs Espoo Team. This time the difference was 10 pts (54-64). PeKa had two and Espoo Team four players in double figures. HoNsU (Jyvaskyla) had no difficulties to win over BC Nokia (81-59) and Kori-80 (Kerava) made it also to the Final 4 by defeating RaPy (Tampere) 102-72. Semi-Finals on November 12.

Huima - Catz 76-61 (28-29) (Carrie Bacon 20, Erneisha Bailey 17/12, Kenya Robinson 14/12 - Yelena Solovyeva 21/15, Elena Reshetko 19).

PeKa - Espoo Team 54-64 (28-35) (Carithia Rivers 17, Sherida Triggs 12/12 - Henna Salomaa 16, Whitney Allen 15/11, Ashley Haynes 13/10).

HoNsU - BC Nokia 81-59 (46-29) (Raquel Collier 24, Amanda Decoud 20, Tiia Hietanen 14 - Calisha Yates 13/13, Kristin Higy 13, Mari Summanen 13).

Kori-80 - RaPy 102-72 (62-36)



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  FRANCE - Women  


French champion beat Besiktas Cola Turka in the Euroleague opener - by Eurobasket News
Bourges Basket - Besiktas Cola Turka 79:49

Bourges Basket overcame Besiktas Cola Turka in the opener of Euroleague 2008/2009. French champions were too good at home taking 79:49 victory. Alessandra Santos (200-C-73) led the winners with 19 points and 9 rebounds. Nwal Endene Miyem (188-F-88) netted 16, while Catherine Melain (184-F-74) collected 10 points and 10 rebounds. Laura Harper (193-F/C-86, college: Maryland) ended up with 18 points and 13 rebounds, while Shay Doron (175-G-85, college: Maryland) scored 12.
The final score could not show the whole picture of the game. Dumerc made the score 4-0 from the start for the hosts. French champions led 11:5 throughout the period but then Besiktas Cola Turka finished the quarter at 7-0 run. In the second period the game remained tough and only after 23-17 in it Bourges Basket had 34:29 at the halftime.
Bourges, leading 34:31 at the start of the third quarter got a basket from Alessandra Santos and three-balls from Celine Dumerc and Catherine Melain to start a 16-2 run that the Turkish club never recovered from. A 22-11 in the third lifted Bourges up to 56:40 after the third period. With a 23-9 the French side finished the game and took 1-0 record in Group A. Turkish side had good thoughts about the beginning of the game but could not stay in race for the first win in the opener.

Bourges Basket: Alessandra Santos 19+9 rebs, Nwal Endene Miyem 16, Catherine Melain 10+10 rebs
Besiktas Cola Turka: Laura Harper 18+13 rebs, Shay Doron 12

Katie Douglas lifts CSKA to opening win - by Eurobasket News
CSKA - Lille Metropole 96:44

Russian powerhouse CSKA left no chance for the visiting Lille Metropole in the Euroleague opener in Moscow. CSKA newcomer Katie Douglas (183-G/F-79, college: Purdue) dropped 20 points to pace the hosts. Janel McCarville ensured 6 points, while Olexandra Gorbunova netted 11 points in their debuts. Katie Douglas and Maria Stepanova (202-C-79) accounted for 9 unanswered points to tip off the game. Douglas later capped the first frame with 6 straight points and CSKA led 27:6. Lille struggled to find the right tempo and soon Janel McCarville and Ilona Korstine (183-G-80) extended the margin to 31 points. Ann Wauters converted a free throw and sealed the first half outcome at 49:16. Gorbunova dropped 5 points in a 9:0 rally from the hosts to begin the third frame. Lille managed only 7 points in the third term and trailed by unassailable 52 points. The teams cruised to the final whistle with CSKA stopping just whisker away from 100-point mark. Jolene Anderson (173-G-86, agency: Regeneracom Sports, college: Wisconsin) nailed 16 points for Lille. Geraldine Robert (184-F-80) knocked down 10 points and collected 9 rebounds in the loss.
CSKA will next take on TTT Riga in Latvia. Lille will try to rebound at home against Czech Gambrinus.

CSKA: Katie Douglas 20, Liudmila Sapova (185-F-84) 16, Ilona Korstine 12
Lille Metropole: Jolene Anderson 16, Geraldine Robert 10

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  HUNGARY - Women  


MKB Euroleasing overcome TTT Riga in Latvian capital - by Eurobasket News
TTT Riga - MKB Euroleasing 71:86

The Hungarian champions MKB Euroleasing got to a perfect start of their Euroleague campaign. They defeated TTT Riga away from home to take the lead in preliminary Group B. Dora Horti (195-C-87) and Kathleen Macleod (166-G-86) set the tone early in the game as MKB jumped to a 4:0 lead. TTT Riga however quickly denied the deficit and the teams exchanged the baskets throughout the quarter. Kathleen Macleod capped the first frame with a jumper to give the Hungarian side a 24:23 lead at the first intermission. Ratkaine and Amber Holt (183-G/F-85, college: Middle Tenn.St.) stretched the gap to to 9 points at the start of the second period. MKB Euroleasing dominated the second quarter and enjoyed a 6-point advantage at halftime. But TTT Riga refused to give up. Tatyana Troina (188-F/C-81, college: S.Carolina) and Brumermane cut the deficit to just a single point with one quarter remaining. The teams kept it close throughout the fourth term before Dora Horti, Horvath and Amber Holt ignited an 8:0 run to give the visitors a decisive 11-point cushion with under 2 minutes left. Dora Horti finished with 16 points and 10 boards for MKB Euroleasing. Kathleen Macleod and Amber Holt added 16 points apiece for the winners. Tatyana Troina answered with 21 points for the hosts. Essence Carson (183-G-86, college: Rutgers) secured 17 points in the losing case.
TTT Riga will next face CSKA Moscow at home. MKB Euroleasing will travel to Italy to take on Umana Reyer in the second round.

TTT Riga: Tatyana Troina 21, Essence Carson 17
MKB Euroleasing: Dora Horti 16+10 boards, Kathleen Macleod 16, Amber Holt 16

Uniqua NB1/A - Round 3 - by Patonay Adam
Zala Volan could win a very important game at Szekszard. BSE, Pecs won easily on road, Vasas Csata made a very good first half against MKB Euroleasing but Sopron dominated on the second half. Seat Foton Gyor - Szolnok game will be on 16th of October and Szeged will play on 17th at BEAC from this round.

Vasas Csata - MKB Euroleasing Sopron 39: 80
Csata: Fejes R. 11/3 (6 reb), Fritz J. 12/3
Sopron: Horti D. 18/3 (9reb), Honti K. 10/3, Holt A. 10, Horvath Zsu. 11/9

Savaria - BSE 76:111
Savaria: Sandor I. 11/9, Gardner P. 28/9, Robinson R. 22
BSE: Zsovar O. 11/3, Szlimak H. 18/9, Maksimovic 19, Milkova 18, Zsofia Koncz (184-F-85, agency: Laszlo Vinko Services) 14/3, Gabriella Kiss (178-G-84, agency: Laszlo Vinko Services) 23/9

Atomeromu Szekszard - Zala Volan ZTE 63:67
Szekszard: Wilhelmina W. 13 (9 reb, 8 stl), Tamas R. 13
Zala Volan: Zsofia Horvath (191-C-82) (191-C-82) 17/3 (10 reb), Pungor K. 10/9

Cegledi EKK - Mizo Pecs 2010 54:101
Cegled: Hegedus M. 18
Pecs: Torok Sz. 11, Queenan B. 22/3, Coelho G. 19, Andrea Somogyi (184-F-86) 18 (8 reb), Krisztina Raksanyi (180-G-91) 12/3

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  ISRAEL - Women  


Liron Cohen in Slovakia - by Gil Goshen



Lattes Montpellier - Broker Kosice 65:67

On the first Euroleague round tonight
Broker Kosice won vs. Lattes Montpeller 67:65.
Liron played 35 mintues and had 10 points including the last 2 points on
the buzzer when it was 65:65 !!!!
Liron also had 6 ast.

C. Spencer had 12 points, Linda Frohalich had 11 points and Kraayeveld had 20 points.

For Montpelier:

S.Mosch 21 points,

Next game Broker will play vs. Fenerbahce on october 22th

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  KUWAIT - Women  


Woman's National basketball team - by Corey Washington
October 17th, The Kuwait's Woman's National basketball team will take on the US Armed forces- Kuwait Naval Base(KNB)womans basketball team in an friendly competition for queen of the court. (KNB) will host the game on Camp Arifjan at 3:30 PM. This game is sure to bring attention to the Kuwait Woman's Basketball league as they continue to grow.

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  LATVIA - Women  


MKB Euroleasing overcome TTT Riga in Latvian capital - by Eurobasket News
TTT Riga - MKB Euroleasing 71:86

The Hungarian champions MKB Euroleasing got to a perfect start of their Euroleague campaign. They defeated TTT Riga away from home to take the lead in preliminary Group B. Dora Horti (195-C-87) and Kathleen Macleod (166-G-86) set the tone early in the game as MKB jumped to a 4:0 lead. TTT Riga however quickly denied the deficit and the teams exchanged the baskets throughout the quarter. Kathleen Macleod capped the first frame with a jumper to give the Hungarian side a 24:23 lead at the first intermission. Ratkaine and Amber Holt (183-G/F-85, college: Middle Tenn.St.) stretched the gap to to 9 points at the start of the second period. MKB Euroleasing dominated the second quarter and enjoyed a 6-point advantage at halftime. But TTT Riga refused to give up. Tatyana Troina (188-F/C-81, college: S.Carolina) and Brumermane cut the deficit to just a single point with one quarter remaining. The teams kept it close throughout the fourth term before Dora Horti, Horvath and Amber Holt ignited an 8:0 run to give the visitors a decisive 11-point cushion with under 2 minutes left. Dora Horti finished with 16 points and 10 boards for MKB Euroleasing. Kathleen Macleod and Amber Holt added 16 points apiece for the winners. Tatyana Troina answered with 21 points for the hosts. Essence Carson (183-G-86, college: Rutgers) secured 17 points in the losing case.
TTT Riga will next face CSKA Moscow at home. MKB Euroleasing will travel to Italy to take on Umana Reyer in the second round.

TTT Riga: Tatyana Troina 21, Essence Carson 17
MKB Euroleasing: Dora Horti 16+10 boards, Kathleen Macleod 16, Amber Holt 16

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  LUXEMBOURG - Women  


Stats Leaders - Women
Luxembourgish Men Basketball Stats Leaders
Points Per Game
1. N.DelGado, ETZ 31
2. Brady, RAC 31
3. McDaniel, BSM 30.5
4. Anderson, USH 26
5. Smith, SPA 24
6. Whitworth, T71 23
7. Kennedy, ETZ 22.5
8. Rajniak, T71 22
9. Brand, RES 21.5
10. Schwartz, MUS 21.5


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  NAIA - Women  


Sterling women favorite in KCAC - by Eurobasket News
Sterling College is the overwhelming preseason pick to win the KCAC women's basketball title this season.

And why not?

The defending conference champs return everyone from last year's team that went 17-1 in league play. And coach Lonnie Kruse added depth to that squad with a solid recruiting class.

'That's a challenge for us as a team and a coaching staff to get better,' Kruse said Tuesday at the KCAC basketball media day. 'We have to integrate some new things, some new players to make this team tougher yet.'

Of the veterans for Sterling, which received all 10 first-place votes from the media and nine of the 10 votes from the coach, Ashley Kraft leads the way.

Kraft had a breakout season as a junior, averaging 16.4 points, 8.5 rebounds, was named the conference player of the year and was a second-team All-American.

Haven's Hillary Stucky, who averaged 12.5 points, also was a first-team all-conference player, while Britany Gasper and Jacci Tinkel averaged 12 and 9.7 points, respectively.

Add to that mix Cathryn Wiebe and Megan Patrick, a pair of 6-footers who can play on the perimeter.

'They have a learning curve - all freshmen have a learning curve,' Kruse said of his incoming players. 'It's just a matter of how quick that kicks in.'

All in all, the Warriors have the potential to better last year's 23-8 record.

'I think we'll be better offensively,' said Kruse, who is 17 wins short of 600 career coaching victories. 'That was a concern last year. We weren't a great offensive team.'

Southwestern, last year's conference runner-up, was picked second, while Tabor was third.

The Tabor men also were picked third in the coaches poll behind Ottawa and Southwestern. Tabor tied for sixth in the league last year.

'I thought we'd be somewhere around there because of the players we have back,' Tabor coach Micah Ratzlaff said. 'We have a lot of depth from last year.'

Tabor started slow in Ratzlaff's first season as coach. But the Bluejays rallied to a 9-9 finish in league play and 13-17 overall.

'I thought we finished the second half of the conference season on a really, really good note,' said Ratzlaff, who returns three starters who averaged double figures last season.

'We know what we want to do from the very beginning this year, and that's something we didn't have last year. We went through three or four different offenses last year.'

Ratzlaff said the Bluejays should have better depth in the post and bigger guards on the perimeter.

Courtesy of http://www.hutchnews.com

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  NCAA1 - Women  


Notre Dame has high hopes - by Eurobasket News
The top priority for Notre Dame's women's basketball team this season is to play better defense against the 3-point shot.

Notre Dame opponents shot 36% from the 3-point line last year, while the Irish shot 29.2%, 1 of the few weak spots for the Irish despite going 25-9 for the season.

Notre Dame was ranked 15th last year and lost to eventual champion Tennessee in the NCAA regional.

Although the Irish lost leading scorer Charel Allen (15.1 points a game) and point guard Tulyah Gaines to graduation, expectations for this season are high, as usual. The Irish don't have any seniors, but return starters Ashley Barlow (12.1 points, 4.7 rebounds), Lindsay Schrader (10.3 points, 6.2 rebounds) and Erica Williamson (6.4 points, 4.4 rebounds).

Coach Muffet McGraw expects the Irish to open the season ranked and to earn their 14th straight NCAA tournament berth.

Courtesy of http://www.wishtv.com

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  NCAA2 - Women  


Defending National Champion Northern Kentucky is Pre-Season #1 in the Nation! - by Lucius Jones
N.Kentucky begins their season just as they finished their last one which is as the number one team in the entire nation in Division 2 basketball. The season began with a 69-67 near victory over Division 1 and Big East conference affiliate Cincinnati and ended with a 63-58 National Title win versus S.Dakota N.Kentucky returns all but two players from the Championship roster and seem focused on a strong run at a repeat. Coming off a 28-8 season and a 13-6 GLVC record, the Norse look poised to defend their championship with many key returning players.

D1 E.Carolina transfer Jessica Slack (5'11''-G) returns with her 13.3ppg, 41%3pt, 85%FT, 4rpg, 3apg, 2spg. As a 2yr D1 starter and key contributor to the Norse as a Junior, Jessica Slack is an obvious choice as an All American candidate for the upcoming season. This all around talent has the tools to build on this experience and quite possibly move on into the professional ranks after this season. The lights out shooter from deep is expected to 'pick up the Slack' left behind by the two graduated seniors and increase her production this year.

Cassie Brannen (6'1''-C/F-86) averaged 13.6ppg, 56%FG, 38%3pt, 82%FT, 6rpg, 1apg,1spg,2bpg and is sure to play a key part in the title defense. This inside/outside talent is an extremely efficient scorer from anywhere on the court. Her interior defense makes finishing on penetration versus the Norse a difficult task. Look for more of the same from Cassie Brannen as she too should up her output in 08-09.

Danyelle Echoles (5'6''-G-87), with 7ppg in 24mins per game is likely to develop into a third double-figure scoring threat.

With a 14-1 record at home and 6-0 record in neutral site games, N.Kentucky should be able to improve on their overall record and establish themselves as one of the better teams to come through the school, as last year's squad did as well. N.Kentucky has the makings of an NCAA D2 powerhouse being born. With another game against Cincinnati and another Big East game versus Louisville, N.Kentucky will be trying to add an amazing upset or two to their ever-growing resume. Dont count out this special group of girls.

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  POLAND - Women  


Tamika Catchings has signed a contract with Lotos PKO BP Gdynia - by Wojciech Strzebinski


Wisla Krakow enjoys an overtime win in Russia - by Eurobasket News
Nadezhda -TS Wisla Krakow 79:80

Wisla Can-Pack Krakow started EuroLeague campaign with an overtime win over Russian Nadezhda 79:80 in Orenburg, Russia. Taking 21-13 from the start the Polish side could not keep the advantage at the end of the fourth period and won only in overtime. Chamique Holdsclaw (188-F-77, agency: Merit Sports, college: Tennessee) paced all the winners with 20 points and 7 rebounds. Fernandez nailed 19, while Dominique Canty (175-G/F-77, agency: Merit Sports, college: Alabama) scored 13. Shameka Christon (186-G/F-82, college: Arkansas) top-scored for the hosts with 21 points, while Verameyenka Anastasiya collected 20 points and 10 rebounds.
Wisla Can-Pack Krakow scored the first four points in the game and had 13-6 later in the first. The guests dominated in the court and produced 21:13 by the end of the first. Kobryn made it 25:15 in the middle of the second, but Nadezhda bounced back to 4 points gap. The teams went to the lockers for 33:37 for the visitors.
The home side tied the game at the end of the third period when Verameyenka Anastasiya posted 2 for 55:55. The game became more interesting for the next 15 minutes as the fourth quarter was not the last. It was Verameyenka Anastasiya again to tie the game at the end of the fourth for 71:71. Burik brought her team to 79:76 with 48 seconds in the game. Fernandez reduced it first to the minimum and then Wielebnowska brought the first win for the Polish side.

Nadezhda: Shameka Christon 21, Verameyenka Anastasiya 20+10 rebs, Teilane-Tamane Zane 14+12 rebs
Wisla Krakow: Chamique Holdsclaw 20+7 rebs, Fernandez 19, Dominique Canty 13

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  PORTUGAL - Women  


II Taca Vitor Hugo - by Luis Rocha
The first phase of this competition finished last weekend. CAB, OLIVAIS, ALGES and B:VIAGEM were the teams that step trough the final four, to be played at 18 adn 19 of October in Montijo. CAB had an easy qualification, PVOA and BARCELOS are two teams with less quality in their rosters (comparing to CAB...) and they didnt put up much of a fight when playing against CAB. OLIVAIS had a nice qualification but had to pass over VAGOS in a tight match won by 4 points (70-66). The next two games were easy and OLIVAIS just hit the brakes, slow down enjoy the ride and gave minutes to all their players, they even saw one of their best players (Aja Parham (183-G/F-84, college: Boston Coll.)) get injured, but even that didnt afect them. ALGES were the third team to achieve qualification, they pick up a brush and clean up all teir opponents. The third game against B:VIAGEM was tough and even untill the break, but in the third quarter ALGAĉۡS speed up things, made a run of 11-0 and solve things from there on. B:VIAGEM lost the game but due to a best point average among the best second placed, its the fourth team to go to final four. At this point of season it seems that the best 4 are in , although VAGOS could also be there. Nice performances of ALGES Amanda Jackson (175-G-85, college: Miami, OH)( although not as great in the third game).If things (rosters) stay the same and none of the others can find some quality adds, it seems that Liga Feminina will be a tough cookie for 5 teams, that will place a high bet for the title, and the other 6 will try to avoiid relegation.

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  RUSSIA - Women  


Katie Douglas lifts CSKA to opening win - by Eurobasket News
CSKA - Lille Metropole 96:44

Russian powerhouse CSKA left no chance for the visiting Lille Metropole in the Euroleague opener in Moscow. CSKA newcomer Katie Douglas (183-G/F-79, college: Purdue) dropped 20 points to pace the hosts. Janel McCarville ensured 6 points, while Olexandra Gorbunova netted 11 points in their debuts. Katie Douglas and Maria Stepanova (202-C-79) accounted for 9 unanswered points to tip off the game. Douglas later capped the first frame with 6 straight points and CSKA led 27:6. Lille struggled to find the right tempo and soon Janel McCarville and Ilona Korstine (183-G-80) extended the margin to 31 points. Ann Wauters converted a free throw and sealed the first half outcome at 49:16. Gorbunova dropped 5 points in a 9:0 rally from the hosts to begin the third frame. Lille managed only 7 points in the third term and trailed by unassailable 52 points. The teams cruised to the final whistle with CSKA stopping just whisker away from 100-point mark. Jolene Anderson (173-G-86, agency: Regeneracom Sports, college: Wisconsin) nailed 16 points for Lille. Geraldine Robert (184-F-80) knocked down 10 points and collected 9 rebounds in the loss.
CSKA will next take on TTT Riga in Latvia. Lille will try to rebound at home against Czech Gambrinus.

CSKA: Katie Douglas 20, Liudmila Sapova (185-F-84) 16, Ilona Korstine 12
Lille Metropole: Jolene Anderson 16, Geraldine Robert 10

Wisla Krakow enjoys an overtime win in Russia - by Eurobasket News
Nadezhda -TS Wisla Krakow 79:80

Wisla Can-Pack Krakow started EuroLeague campaign with an overtime win over Russian Nadezhda 79:80 in Orenburg, Russia. Taking 21-13 from the start the Polish side could not keep the advantage at the end of the fourth period and won only in overtime. Chamique Holdsclaw (188-F-77, agency: Merit Sports, college: Tennessee) paced all the winners with 20 points and 7 rebounds. Fernandez nailed 19, while Dominique Canty (175-G/F-77, agency: Merit Sports, college: Alabama) scored 13. Shameka Christon (186-G/F-82, college: Arkansas) top-scored for the hosts with 21 points, while Verameyenka Anastasiya collected 20 points and 10 rebounds.
Wisla Can-Pack Krakow scored the first four points in the game and had 13-6 later in the first. The guests dominated in the court and produced 21:13 by the end of the first. Kobryn made it 25:15 in the middle of the second, but Nadezhda bounced back to 4 points gap. The teams went to the lockers for 33:37 for the visitors.
The home side tied the game at the end of the third period when Verameyenka Anastasiya posted 2 for 55:55. The game became more interesting for the next 15 minutes as the fourth quarter was not the last. It was Verameyenka Anastasiya again to tie the game at the end of the fourth for 71:71. Burik brought her team to 79:76 with 48 seconds in the game. Fernandez reduced it first to the minimum and then Wielebnowska brought the first win for the Polish side.

Nadezhda: Shameka Christon 21, Verameyenka Anastasiya 20+10 rebs, Teilane-Tamane Zane 14+12 rebs
Wisla Krakow: Chamique Holdsclaw 20+7 rebs, Fernandez 19, Dominique Canty 13

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  SERBIA - Women  


A league: Crvena Zvezda celebrates closing the first round - by Dragan Jankovski
In the last game of the first round in Serbian A league Spartak suffered home defeat against Crvena Zvezda 54-73. A way more exciting game was expected but the host team wasn't on its level.

Anyway, Spartak opened this match with a triple by Marina Ristic (168-G-87). Interesting but it was the first and the only lead by the hosts until the end of the game. Very quick Iva Roglic (189-F-88) and her teammates created 12-2 run taking 7-point lead. Rada Vidovic (177-G-79, agency: LBM Management) shined in Spartak after that moment tying the score on 12-12. In the last few minutes of the first quarter Zvezda succeeded to reach 15-19. Crucial period of the game was the second quarter when visiting team made impressive 20-2 run for plus 20 at the half time. Spartak managed to score only 7 points in this period. Later, Crvena Zvezda extended its lead to 27-52 what was a clear signal that this game is already over.

Dunja Prcic (180-G-87) top-scored for the winning team with 15 points. Nina Bogicevic (178-G-89) followed her with 12 while Tanja Miranovic (173-G-85, college: Richmond) and Andrijana Vasovic (186-F/C-83) had 11 points each. Marina Ristic scored 17 points for Spartak while Rada Vidovic netted one point less. In the next round Zvezda will meet Usce while Spartak's rival will be Partizan.

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  SLOVAKIA - Women  


AT Gemtex MBK Roznava sign Brittany Pinkney - by Eurobasket
AT Gemtex MBK Roznava signed American guard Brittany Pinkney (183-G, college: Va Commonwealth). Pinkney played most recently at Virginia Commonwealth University (NCAA) in the U.S. It will be his first year in professional basketball. It's a very big question to sign the player with not as impressive stats as Pinkney had. She averaged just 1.3ppg, 1.6rpg in 32 games her senior season, seeing most of the games from the bench. Usually American players, who sign pro contracts in Europe are very well-known with impressive college career. Let's wait and see...

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  TURKEY - Women  


French champion beat Besiktas Cola Turka in the Euroleague opener - by Eurobasket News
Bourges Basket - Besiktas Cola Turka 79:49

Bourges Basket overcame Besiktas Cola Turka in the opener of Euroleague 2008/2009. French champions were too good at home taking 79:49 victory. Alessandra Santos (200-C-73) led the winners with 19 points and 9 rebounds. Nwal Endene Miyem (188-F-88) netted 16, while Catherine Melain (184-F-74) collected 10 points and 10 rebounds. Laura Harper (193-F/C-86, college: Maryland) ended up with 18 points and 13 rebounds, while Shay Doron (175-G-85, college: Maryland) scored 12.
The final score could not show the whole picture of the game. Dumerc made the score 4-0 from the start for the hosts. French champions led 11:5 throughout the period but then Besiktas Cola Turka finished the quarter at 7-0 run. In the second period the game remained tough and only after 23-17 in it Bourges Basket had 34:29 at the halftime.
Bourges, leading 34:31 at the start of the third quarter got a basket from Alessandra Santos and three-balls from Celine Dumerc and Catherine Melain to start a 16-2 run that the Turkish club never recovered from. A 22-11 in the third lifted Bourges up to 56:40 after the third period. With a 23-9 the French side finished the game and took 1-0 record in Group A. Turkish side had good thoughts about the beginning of the game but could not stay in race for the first win in the opener.

Bourges Basket: Alessandra Santos 19+9 rebs, Nwal Endene Miyem 16, Catherine Melain 10+10 rebs
Besiktas Cola Turka: Laura Harper 18+13 rebs, Shay Doron 12