EUROBASKET NEWS REPORT - 10/3/2008

Copyright © 1997-2008 Eurobasket
WARNING:
Do not copy, redistribute, publish or otherwise exploit information that you download from the site!
Do not encumber, license, modify, publish, sell, transfer or transmit, or in any way exploit, any of the
content of the report, nor will you attempt to do so.
More info:www.eurobasket.com


Men News

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


South Chicago Ball Stars against Aurora Force on Saturday - by Eurobasket News
Two ABA expansion teams set to begin regular season play in December will meet this Saturday in a pre-season exhibition game at South Suburban College, 15800 South State Street in Holland, IL at 3pm. Tickets will be $5 general admission, kids under 12 free. For more information, call 877 661 0076 or email hicksron9@aol.com. It will be the South Chicago Ball Stars vs. the Aurora Force.

'This will be a great opportunity for Kenny Battle's team and ours to see just how strong we are and whether we're set for a tough ABA season. We've heard that there are some good teams forming, but we know that the Chicago area talent is as good as any in the country,' said Ron Hicks, team owner. 'So, while this will be a pre-season exhibition game, I think you'll see the type of intensity that you'll see during the regular season.' For more information, visit www.chicagoballstars.com or www.abalive.com.

Courtesy of ABA

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


The show begins on Saturday - by Dragan Jankovski
Adriatic league officially starts on Saturday. Opening game is scheduled for 15:45h and it is the one between two Croatians teams Zadar and Split. At 16h FMP will host Crvena Zvezda in Serbian derby. Another very interesting game for sure will be the one in Vrsac, where Hemofarm STADA will meet Cibona Zagreb. After one season without participation in the regional championship, Bosna ASA BHT will take on Helios Domzale in Slovenia. Defending champion Partizan Igokea will play against another returnee Krka Novo Mesto. Montenegrin champion Buducnost Podgorica waits Slovenians champ Union Olimpija at 19h while Zagreb will host Vojvodina Srbijagas at 18h.

Each team got few acquisitions during the summer. The biggest number of players for sure singed Crvena Zvezda, which heads into the new season with the highest goals. Partizan Igokea also inked few very interesting ones as well as Cibona, which managed to return couple of its stars from the past. Union Olimpija is another team with great signings this summer. It is hard to say who is the main candidate for the title but for sure all above mentioned teams will have a nice chance. In that group we also have to add Zadar, the last seasons finalist Hemofarm STADA and maybe Buducnost Podgorica. Much better picture about capabilities of each team we will see after few rounds.

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


Liga A first game! - by Facundo Iatzky
The 2008/09 season was officially started yesterday night with the game between defending champion Libertad Sunchales and the recently champion of Argentinian cup, Atenas Cordoba. Despite a better beggining of Atenas, Libertad won very easily. This was because Atenas had been playing many games in the last weeks and their players were tired. In general it was not a good match beacuse both teams had many turnovers and they had a low field percentege. Jason Osborne (204-F-74, agency: Court Side, college: Louisville) showed all his potential with 22 points and 10 rebounds. Andres Pelussi (198-F-77) added 13 points. Keith Holmes made his debut with 5 points. The best player of Atenas was Djibril Kante (201-C-80, college: Indiana St.).

Libertad (78): Sebastian Ginobili 10, Pablo Moldu 3 (x), Gustavo Orona 9, Andres Pelussi 13 (x), Jason Osborne 22 (St), Alejandro Zilli 9, Juan Sartorelli 2, Marcos Saglietti 5, Ralph Holmes 5. Coach: Julio Lamas.

Atenas (57): Bruno Labaque 4, Andrew Laws 5, Juan Manuel Locatelli 10, Leonardo Gutierrez 11, Djibril Kante 13 (St), Federico Ferrini 5, Cristian Romero 4, Juan Pablo Figueroa 3, Bruno Barovero 2, Joel Comba 0. Coach: Ruben Magnano.

Quarters: 16-14, 36-25 y 62-44.
Referees: Pablo Estevez, Juan Fernandez.
Stadium: Polideportivo Cincuentenario Formosa

*****************************************************
  AUSTRALIA   


Adelaide no match for the stinging Breakers - by Eurobasket News
The New Zealand Breakers registered their third straight win in the NBL season as they chopped up the Adelaide 36ers at the North Shore Events Centre today. The Breakers looked solid and once again proved they are one of the main contenders for the trophy this year with a 118:80 victory. Kirk Penney (194-G-80, college: Wisconsin) unloaded 34 points, dished out 9 assists and stole the ball 6 times to pace the Breakers. CJ Bruton (188-G-75, college: Indian Hills CC) came up with 16 points, whil Oscar Forman (205-G/F-82) delivered 14 for the winners. The absence of Adam Ballinger impacted the 36ers offensive game as they struggled to produce throughout the game. Jacob Holmes (198-G-83) tallied 19 points and 13 boards for the visitors. Luke Schenscher (216-C-82, agency: Priority Sports, college: Georgia Tech) added 15 points and 14 caroms in the loss.
The hosts were the first to jump out of the blocks. They accounted for 9 consecutive points to dominate early on. The Breakers remained cool and easily cleared off to a 55:34 advantage at halftime. The home team closed the third quarter with a 15:0 rally to jump to a massive 88:59 advantage. They cruised to the victory in the final period and sealed the third win in the season.
The Gold Coast Blaze failed to snap their losing skid as they came up short against the South Dragons 90:107 at the Gold Coast Convention Centre. Mark Worthington (202-F-83, college: Metro St.) provided 20 points to lead the South Dragons. Cortez Groves added 17 points for the winning side. James Harvey (196-G/F-79) was a usual contributor for the hosts with 23 points. Shane Heal finished with 19 points in defeat.

*****************************************************
  BALTIC LEAGUE   


Ready Steady Go! - by Eurobasket News
The Baltic League regular season tipped off yesterday with Siauliai and TU/Rock facing each other at the Siauliai Arena. The Arena welcomed more than 2000 spectators that saw their favorites taking a confident start to the campaign. A well-balanced Siauliai looked a bit sloppy at the start however changed the complexion of the game after the long break and finalized an overwhelming success at the end. Saulius Kuzminskas (210-C/F-82, college: California) posted 19 points and 9 rebounds to pace Siauliai. Gediminas Maceina added 17 points, while Vitalijus Stanevicius had 15 points for the winners. Tanoka Beard (205-F/C-71, agency: Arik Krayn Services, college: Boise St.) answered with 17 points and 6 rebounds for TU/Rock. Giorgi Tsintsadze delivered 15 points and 8 assists in defeat.
The teams kept it close in the first half. TU/Rock led throughout the bigger part of the opening frame however the hosts used a 7:0 to cap the first tern and pile up a 21:18 lead. The Estonian team retained the lead after the intermission but Siauliai drew things at 37 at the interval. Siualiai went on a run in the third frame. Saulius Kuzminskas nailed 6 straight points and Kadziulis connected from afar for the home team to grab a 60:48 advantage. Virginijus Praskevicius extended the margin to 16 points at the start of the fourth quarter and the hosts never looked back again. TU/Rock outrebounded the hosts 28:26 but committed 23 turnovers.
Siauliai will next take on Barons/LMT away from home. TU/Rock will host Lietuvos Rytas on October 5.

There was more action in the Challenge Cup yesterday with seven games taking place all over the Baltic countries.
Techasas prevailed in the Lithuanian derby against Alytus. Trailing by 2 points at halftime and 5 points after three quarters Techasas nevertheless found the way to recover. They burst out with a 33:11 rally in the final period to eke out an impressive 87:70 victory at the end. Demarius Bolds (170-G-84, college: Missouri Western) nailed 22 points to lead Techasas. J.J. Tauai had 18 points and 11 rebounds, while Chris Hill and Paulius Staskunas finished with 16 points each for Techasas. Marius Janisius (203-F-77) answered with 24 points and 9 rebounds for Alytus. Zydrunas Urbonas had 17 points and 8 rebounds in the loss.
Neptunas overwhelmed Suduva 94:78 in a high-octane clash at the Neptunas basketball Arena in Klaipeda. The home team jumped to a 23:13 lead at the first intermission but Suduva answered with explosive second term when they accounted for 31 points and rode to a 5-point halftime lead. However Neptunas looked a different team in the second half as they raised the tempo and left the opponents far behind. Martynas Mazeika (190-G-85, agency: LimeLight) netted 24 points for Neptunas. Deividas Gailius contributed 22 points, while Valdas Vasylius added 20 for the winning team. Tomas Cerneckis (191-G-88) dropped 18 points for Suduva.
Triobet Kaunas toppled ASK/Buki in Latvia. The Lithuanian team proved stronger 82:72 at the end. Arturas Milaknis (195-G-86) topscored with 23 points for the visitors. Vytenis Jasikevicius tallied 18 points and 10 rebounds in the win. Edmunds Gabrans (190-G-79) and Arturs Brunins (200-F-82) answered with 17 points apiece for ASK/Buki.
Liepajas Lauvas were narrowly beaten by Aisciai 73:76 at home. The visitors built a 7-point lead before the fourth term however Liepajas Lauvas opened the final period with an 8:0 run to step in front. They still led by a single point with 30 seconds left but Rinkevicius and Ernestas Ezerskis dropped 3 freebies to seal the victory for Aisciai. Donatas Motiejunas (213-C-90) led the winners with 22 points. Ernestas Ezerskis chipped in 19 points for Aisciai. The hosts responded with 18 points from Arturs Stalbergs (199-G/F-84, college: Evansville). Jevgenijs Kosuskins knocked down 15 points for Liepajas Lauvas.
TTU opened their Baltic League Challenge Cup season with a comfortable win over Latvian Keizarmezs. TTU overcame a sloppy start to the game and grabbed a well-deserved 81:67 win at the end. Keizarmezs jumped to an 18:13 lead after the starting period however the hosts denied it in the second term and surged ahead after the long break. Joosep Toome (202-F-85) paced the home team with 25 points and 12 boards. Kristjan Makke provided 19 points, while Tamm finished with 13 points, 6 rebounds and 5 assists in the win. Keizarmezs answered with 19 points from Arturs Strelnieks (196-F-85).
Tallinna Kalev held off Zemgale 85:70 at home court. Talinna Kalev cruised to a 16-point lead at the interval and ensured an impressive win in the second half. Erki Kivinukk (199-F-73) knocked down 24 points for Tallinna Kalev. Johnny Gray provided 16 points, while Ivo Uibukant netted 15 points for the winners. Martins Berkis (198-F-85) replied with 18 points for Zemgale in defeat.
Walga Velg meanwhile lost their battle to the Swedish Norrkoping Dolphins. The Swedish team accumulated a 15-point cushion at halftime and it was never endangered in the second half. Joe McNaull (208-C-72, agency: SportsTalent, college: Long Beach St.) provided 16 points for Norrkoping. Gee Gervin produced 14 points, while Joakim Kjellbom added 12 points and 9 rebounds for the winning side. Raido Roos (185-G-84) replied with 16 points for Valga Welg. Veljo Vares topscored for the Estonian team with 23 points and 6 rebounds.

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


Two Div. III, five Div. II and nine Div. I teams left in Belgian Cup - by Bertrand Larsimont
Two Div. III teams, five Div. II teams and nine Div. I teams remain in the Belgian Cup race. Here is the program of the Belgian Cup Eigth Finals (two-legged match-ups to be played in the coming weeks):

Optima Ghent vs. VOO Verviers-Pepinster
BBC Kangoeroes Willebroek (Div. II, + 5) vs. Spirou Basket Charleroi
Sint Jan Antwerp (Div. II, + 5) vs. Belgacom Liege Basket
BC Haneffe (Div. III, + 10) vs. Generali Okapi Aalstar
CEP Fleurus (Div. II, + 5) vs. Base BC Oostende
Bree BBC (Div. II, + 5) vs. Dexia Mons-Hainaut
Jaga Radiators Hasselt (Div. II, + 5) vs. Antwerp Diamond Giants
Centre Ardenne Neufchateau (Div. III, + 10) vs. Spotter Leuven

Moris in Osnabrueck (Germany's Pro B) - by Bertrand Larsimont

Former Okapi Aalstar and CEP Fleurus player Stefan Moris (207-F/C-86, agency: Prime Select Sports) has recently been hired by the club of P4two Ballers Osnabrueck in Northwestern Germany. He left Belgium and joined the German Pro B club last Monday. P4two Ballers Osnabrueck will host SU Braunschweig in the first day of Germany's Pro B competition.

To find out more about the German Pro B competition and the results of Stefan Moris' new club during the coming season, please go to http://www.eurobasket.com/Germany/basketball-League-Pro-B.asp.



*****************************************************
  BOSNIA   


Standings - BIH League
D1 Standings
 1. Sloboda Dita 0-0 
 2. BoracNektar 0-0 
 3. Vitez 0-0 
 4. Novi Grad 0-0 
 5. Posusje 0-0 
 6. Siroki Eronet 0-0 
 7. SL IAT Leotar 0-0 
 8. Slavija 0-0 
 9. Igokea 0-0 
 10. Zrinjski MC 0-0 
 11. Grude 0-0 
 12. Hercegovac 0-0 
 13. Mladost MG 0-0 
Will join on later stage:
 1. Bosna S. - 


Sloboda Dita lands Milos Markovic - by Eurobasket News
Sloboda Dita announced signing of Serbian player Milos Markovic (201-G/F-84, agency: Beo Basket) on a one-year deal. Markovic started last season in Mega Ishrana Belgrade and later, actually in March, he joined Buducnost Podgorica. With Buducnost, Markovic won Montenegrin championship as well as National Cup. His team also reached Adriatic league quarterfinals and booked a spot for EuroCup this season. Before Buducnost and Mega Ishrana, Milos Markovic used to played in Ukrainian team Khimik-OPZ Yuzhny. From 2005 to March 2007 he was a member of Hemofarm Vrsac. The best digits he had in the second season with Hemfoarm, when he averaged 6 ppg and 3 rpg for six ULEB Cup games. That year Hemofarm managed to reach ULEB Cup semifinals. Markovic won one title in Serbian championship with Partizan Belgrade on season 04/05. He grew up as a player in Masinac Kraljevo and was a member of Serbian and Montenegro U20 National Team in 2004.

In the meantime, head coach of Bosna ASA BHT Alen Abaz announced that his team enters into the new season without reinforcement under the basket. Abaz stated that Bosna need extremely quality player but it seems the budget is a problem now. However, Bosna will continue with two big prospects Emir Zimic (217-C-86) and Amar Suljagic (210-C-88), but all people in the club and around it will have to be very patient. The main goal of Bosna ASA BHT in Adriatic league is to reach one of the first 8 places.

Zrinjski and Grude meet in friendly game - by Eurobasket News
Zrinjski and Grude played a friendly game on Tuesday at Zrinski's home court in Mostar. It is interesting, but this game ended without the winner 92-92. It could be the right score as the both teams demonstrated decent level. Grude had wonderful beginning 0-12 and it seemed that Zrinski will be in a big trouble. Few minutes later visitors touched impressive plus 20, 4-24. However, their joy didn't last too long. Zrinski started to play much better and Josip Sesar (197-G/F-78, agency: Court Side) reached his level. He together with, Boris Dzidic (206-F/C-80, agency: Interperformances), managed to lead his team very close until the half time. In third frame Zrinjski finally made a turn. Last ten minutes of the game were totally leveled. There was many fouls at the both sides of the court as well as many free throws. Interesting is that players of both teams were almost unmistakable form the FT line, which at the end resulted with final 92-92. Josip Sesar top-scored for the winning side with 25 points. Excellent performance also had Boris Dzidic, who stopped on 23 points. Grude's best player was Josko Alujevic (201-F-83), who netted 22 points. Goran Jelcic (181-G-81) and Luka Zitko (201-F-81) drained 19 points apiece.

*****************************************************
  BULGARIA   


Levski wins NBL promotional tournament, Adeleke's arrival delayed - by Eurobasket News
Levski Sophia is the winner of interesting NBL promotional tournament. All teams participant of NBL league took a place on this exciting event. Each team had three players in the roster and as well as one coach. Tournament was played according to streetball rules. Levski Sophia celebrated in the quarterfinals against CSKA 28-16. In the semifinals its rival was Yambol 24-18 while in the final game Levski was better than Cherno More 23-7. Head coach Konstantin Papazov picked American Marcus Hall (185-G-85, college: Colorado), Vassil Evtimov (207-C/F-77, agency: Interperformances, college: N.Carolina) and Stanislav Slaveykov (198-F-86, agency: Interperformances) to play on this promotional tourney. Interesting is that Levski opened the final game with impressive 16-0.


Results of NBL promotional tournament

Quarterfinals
Lukoil Akademik - Rilski Sportist 15-14
Balkan - Yambol 26-40
Levski - CSKA 28-16
SPartak Pleven - Cherno More 10-15

Semifinals
Lukoil Akademik - Cherno More 15-20
Levski - Yambol 24-18

Final
Levski - Cherno More 23-7


Meanwhile, American Kenny Adeleke (205-C-83, college: Hartford) did not arrive on time in Sophia. Nigerian with American passport supposed to land in Bulgaria yesterday but that didn't happen due to player's personal reasons. He informed the officials of reining Bulgarian champion Lukoil Akademik about his reasons and he is expected to join his new team until the end of the week. Most probably Kenny Adeleke will have his debut in Lukoil's jersey on international tournament on Cyprus (from 7-10 October). Adeleke inked one-year deal with Lukoil few days ago. He will join the other two Americans Antonio Burks (183-G-80, agency: Court Side, college: Memphis) and Tim Pickett (193-G/F-81, agency: Interperformances, college: Florida St.).

Apollon Limassol outsmarts Balkan Botevgrad - by Eurobasket News
Balkan Botevgrad suffered defeat in a thriller friendly game against Cypriot team Apollon Limassol 82-83. It was the last check for Balkan before the beginning of the season.
Bulgarian team had impressive start. It ended first stanza having big 28-17. Apollon recovered from the starting shock playing little bit better following ten minutes. However, it was enough only for minus seven at the half time, 52-45. Totally different picture was seen on the court after the breather. Apollon was the team which dominated as thanks to lucky long range stroke at the end of third frame, Apollon tied the score on 66-66. Balkan had the most troubles in the paint. However, it somehow managed to stay in until the very end. With three minutes remaining Apollon had plus 4. After that moment Tsenko Nakov (185-G-87) drained a triple followed by a basket from Martin Horozov (200-F/C-86) meaning that Balkan made a turn 82-81. In the last five seconds Balkan commited a turnover, what Apollon exploited to made a quick basket for the final score 82-83.
Interesting is that Balkan played this game without three Serbians Marko Popadic (190-G-89, agency: Beo Basket), Nebojsa Ristic (194-G/F-77) and Aleksandar Glintic (208-C-76, agency: Agency No 10), which returned to their country in order to complete the necessary papers. They are expected to come back in Botevgrad in the next few days.

*****************************************************
  CANADA   


Yul Michel joins the Kebs - by Gianni Pascucci


Yul Michel joins the Kebs - by Gianni Pascucci
The Quebec Kebs of the Premier Basketball League are proud to announce to signing of Canadian guard Yul Michel (6'2''-G-80, agency: Huss Sport Agency), a graduate of Brandon University in 2008. The lightning quick guard was widely recognized as one of the best playmakers in the country at the collegiate level. Yuls addition will add tremendous depth to our backcourt, as we probably overloaded starting PG Dominique Soucy (6'3''-G-81) with too many minutes last year. With the return of Dominique while adding Yul, we now have two great floor leaders to run our system next year said Kebs Head Coach and Director of Basketball Operations Charles Dube-Brais . While Yul is a jet who excels in the open court and is great at setting up teammates, Dominique is a great quarterback in the half court, so we feel like they complement each other very well. We will also have the luxury of moving Dominique to the 2-guard spot at times, where he is a very effective scorer and shooter. The Quebec Kebs will complete their roster in the next few weeks and will open up training camp on November 15 in Quebec City, QC. After establishing themselves as one of the top minor league organisations in the Northeast, they look to be very competitive this season in the PBL.

*****************************************************
  CBA   


72 CBA alums appear on NBA training camp rosters - by Eurobasket News
NBA training camps opened on September 30 in many locations in preparation for the upcoming 2008-09 season. A majority of NBA teams have Continental Basketball Association alum competing for roster spots or have coaches staffing the sidelines. Seventy-Two players and coaches who are CBA alums overall are in camps with three players from last season alone. The lone player from the 2007-08 season to make it onto an NBA Training Camp roster is Cory Underwood with the Philadelphia 76ers. Underwood averaged 6.8 points and 4.5 rebounds in five games for the Pittsburgh Xplosion last season.

The Dallas Mavericks have the most CBA alums in camp with six, including Keith McLeod and Cheyne Gadson along with coaches Rick Carlisle, Terry Stotts, Mario Elie (6'5''-G-63, college: Amer.Internat.), and Brad Davis. The San Antonio Spurs have five alums, and the Denver Nuggets, Detroit Pistons, Milwaukee Bucks, and the Sacramento Kings each have four former CBA veterans.

Among the former CBA stars in NBA training camps: 1999 CBA MVP Adrian Griffin (Connecticut Pride/Chicago Bulls), 2006 CBA Defensive Player of the Year Noel Felix (Sioux Falls Skyforce/Cleveland Cavaliers), 2007 Defensive Player of the Year Jamario Moon, 2006 Rookie of the Year Roger Powell, 2004 CBA MVP Josh Davis, and 1999 Newcomer of the Year Damon Jones.

Along with players, there are nine NBA head coaches with CBA experience. Among that group of veteran head coaches who have been head coaches in the CBA, including Phil Jackson (Albany), George Karl (Montana/Albany), and Jerry Sloan (Evansville). Also among the current NBA coaches who have played or served as an assistant coach in the CBA are; Maurice Cheeks (Asst. Coach Quad City, 1993-94), Eddie Jordan (Wyoming, 1983-84), Sam Mitchell (Wisconsin/Rapid City, 1985-87), Rick Carlisle (Albany 1987-88), Michael Curry (6'5''-G-68, college: Sam Houston St.) (Omaha 1995-96), and Marc Iavaroni (Sioux Falls 1991-92).

'CBA alums are continuing to make their presence felt in the NBA,' said CBA Commissioner Dennis Truax. 'This shows the level of talent the CBA has produced over the years and how much the NBA values the players that have come through the CBA. We are happy for all of our alums.'

The following is a complete list of former CBA players and coaches that are on NBA training camp rosters for 2008-09.

Total roster spots held by former CBA players and coaches in 2007-08 training camp rosters: 72


CBA ALUMNI OF NBA TRAINING CAMP ROSTERS

Atlanta (1): (Duane Ferrell (6'7''-F-65, college: Georgia))

Boston (1): (Clifford Ray)

Charlotte (1): (Herb Brown)

Chicago (2): (Pete Myers), Roger Powell

Cleveland (1): (Chris Jent)

Dallas (6): (Rick Carlisle, Mario Elie, Terry Stotts, Brad Davis), Cheyne Gadson, Keith McLeod

Denver (4): (George Karl), Anthony Carter, Chucky Atkins, Smush Parker

Detroit (4): (Michael Curry, Dave Cowens, Darrell Walker, Harold Ellis)

Golden State (3): (Keith Smart), Stephen Jackson, Ronny Turiaf

Houston (3): (Elston Turner), Rafer Alston, Marcus Campbell

Indiana (4): (Lester Conner), Stephen Graham, Josh Davis, Maceo Baston

LA Clippers (2): (Rory White, Fred Vinson)

LA Lakers (3): (Phil Jackson, Craig Hodges), Ira Newble

Memphis (3): (Marc Iavaroni, Dave Joerger), Greg Buckner

Miami (1): Mark Blount

Milwaukee (4): (Joe Wolf, Jim Boyland), Adrian Griffin, Damon Jones

Minnesota (1): Kevin Ollie

New Jersey (3): Eddie Gill, Awvee Storey, Darrell Armstrong

NO: (2): (Kenny Gattison), Mike James

New York (1); (Kenny Atkinson)

Oklahoma City (2): (Scott Brooks, Ralph Lewis)

Philadelphia (2): (Maurice Cheeks), Cory Underwood

Phoenix (1): Raja Bell

Portland (1): (Bill Bayno)

Sacramento (4): (Kenny Natt, Jason Hamm), Mikki Moore, Noel Felix

San Antonio (5): (Don Newman, Chip Engelland), Bruce Bowen, Brian Morrison, Charles Gaines

Toronto (3): (Sam Mitchell), Jamario Moon, Anthony Parker

Utah (2): (Jerry Sloan), Britton Johnsen

Washington (2): (Eddie Jordan), Linton Johnson

Courtesy of CBA

*****************************************************
  CHINA   


LA's New Import - by Alex Yam


Alittle Far East "Magic".,......... - by Alex Yam
Chinese Magic


Another season has gone by, a championship won and lost. This off season has been anything but dull, with the resurgence of The Green Machine in Boston, and a tumultuous move for a franchise on life support (Seattle), the NBA has had a busy time adjusting to the multitude of changes for the coming season.

Given the success of the Beijing Olympics this past summer, Chinese Basketball is on a new high, and looking to make their impression felt here in the states. The Los Angeles Lakers came to terms with what many think is the new breed of Chinese basketball players, a 6-9 multi-talented guard/forward named Sun Yue. Dubbed by the media, as Chinas version of the famed Magic Johnson, Yue creates problems with both his size and court vision, but what may be the single most important skill he has is the fact he has the potential to be a defensive stopper at the next level. Many NBA scouts are intrigued by his abilities, but are not yet sold on him or Chinese guards in general. Lakers training camp has started but the world will have to wait a little while longer to see Yue, since he is fighting a case of mono-nucleosis.

*****************************************************
  COSTA RICA   


Standings - D1
NL Standings
 1. Barva 17-1 
 2. Liceo 16-2 
 3. Santa Cecilia 13-5 
 4. Limon 12-6 
 5. Escazu 11-7 
 6. UCR 6-12 
 7. Santa Ana 5-13 
 8. San Luis Gonzaga 5-13 
 9. Perez Zeledon 4-14 
 10. Goicoechea 1-17 


Clausura playoff have started - by Gianni Pascucci
Yesterday night started the quarterfinals of the Liga de Baloncesto Superior (LBS) playoffs. The two favourite teams, Barva and Liceo, have the two easier jobs, meeting # 8 Coyotes de Santa Ana and # 7 San Luis Gonzaga, respectively. The other pairings between # 6 UCR and # 3 Santa Cecilia and between # 5 Escazu and # 4 Limon are very more balanced

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


Vukovar wins tournament 'Belisce 2008' - by Eurobasket News
Vukovar is the winner of the second tournament 'Belisce 2008'. In the first game Vukovar was better than Gorica 93-86. Gorica controlled rhythm of the game during the opening 20 minutes finishing it 41-45. Vukovar demonstrated slightly better performance in third frame but it was enough only for 23-21. However, Bruno Petrovic (201-F-77, agency: Agency No 10) and his teammates had impressive last stanza grabbing 7-point win at the end. Bruno Petrovic drained 22 points for Vukovar. Mihael Bekavac (193-F-85) and Zvonimir Tucakovic (198-G-81) had 22 points apiece. Gorica got the most from Kovacevic and Poljak, who netted 26 points each.
In the final game Vukovar celebrated against the host Belisce 85-58. It was much easier game for Vukovar than the first one. This time Bruno Petrovic and Zvonimir Tucakovic had the same number of points, 19. Budimir netted 17 points for Belisce.
In the game for third place Gorica blasted Podravac 76-56.

Bruno Petrovic is the best scorer of the tournament with 42 points. One point less than him had Zvonimir Tucakovic, who is named MVP of the tourney.

*****************************************************
  CYPRUS   


Pre-season Tournament - by Nasios Orinos
Keravnos Strovolou is hosting its annual tournament. The tournament is a part of the pre-season and is expected, among others, to allow the basketball fans to get a glance of two of next years contenders.

Fans will get a chance to enjoy Marousi (Greece) and Ashkelon (Israel), but also to get their eyes on a traditional KERAVNOS-APOEL game. APOEL, with a new American coach, has promised a new era for the team and is about to start proving it. Keravnos on the other hand, with many new players on its roster wishes to get a real test against one of its main competitors.

What is most striking though, is the fact that basketball fans will enjoy George Anastasiades, wearing for the first time the Blue T-shirt and playing against its old team, which he helped the greatest to win the championship last year. These are games that players usually enjoy. I come there as a friend. I had great moments at Keravnos and I have made only friends. Now, I play for Apoel and I have to honour my contract, George stated at eurobasket.com.

George, has been the captain of the team for the last 6 years and was distinguished by his passion as well as his fighting and winning spirit. As known, his decision to move to APOEL caught people at Keravnos unprepared as nobody at the club saw it coming.

We are sure that the fans at Keravnos will treat George Anastasiades as a great player deserves.

Apollon is going to Bulgaria for tour - by Michael Aristidou
Limassol team Pizza Express Primetel Apollon flew yesterday to Bulagria. Apollon team will stay there for six days. This tour is for friendly games. So far the team had two friendly game already and schedule another fourteen untill new seazon. Also Apollon will participate in Apoel tournament (8-10 october) with Keraynos and Lukoil. Only one player left behond due to injury and that is Sullivan Phillips (196-F-79, college: Columbia Union). The last admission to the squad american Ernest Brown (213-C-79, college: Indian Hills CC) also went with the team and coach Guillermo Vecchio is satisfied to see all the squad together.

*****************************************************
  DENMARK   


Frederik Nielsen stated on Horsholm 79ers website that he will stay! - by Thomas Soltau
The Danish National team's young tireless point guard Frederik Nielsen (180-G-88) stated officially that he will remain in the Canal Digital League for one more year. The Horsholm 79ers management is smiling and clapping their hands as this was not foreseen. Frederik Nielsen was set to have been a sure thing in the NCAA1 this season.

The crafty point played 30plus minutes in the 07/08 season and were among the assists leaders in the league. He should however be subject to a one month penalty, if he will actually decide to re-join his old team and suit up in the Horsholm 79ers uniform.

Danes return to Horsens! - by Thomas Soltau
This is one homecoming worth attending! Horsens IC announced the return of three special Danish players. NT forward Hans Schur (203-F/C-83, college: Lynn) and guard Christian Lindberg (195-F-83), both returning from US colleges, and forward Anders Katholm (202-F-77) who came back from Iceland. All three are potential starters and a huge improvement to the team.

The last few years a lot of negative talk has been going around about the many roster changes and the general decisions made by this former Danish basketball power. Danish fans struggled to relate to a team in constant change and who seemed to have no firm direction.

Hopefully this will all chance now. Horsens IC new core of solid Danish players should help establish a clearer team identity and also be a positive foundation to build on in the future.

In addition to the three returning players Horsens IC also struck gold when 7 foot 2 big-man Egill Jonasson (217-C-84) decided he would become part of this years squad. The lanky but skilled Icelandic player will be joined by US guard Darnell Kirkwood (196-G/F-85, college: Lynn), who is coming off a good season with 1. Division club Vejle and veteran scorer Spencer Ross (181-G-81, college: Queens (NC)).

Young talents like big-man Milan Kolovrat (205-C/F-86), forward Troels Katholm (198-F-86) and guard Jonas Larsen (192-G/F-86) should also contribute.

How serious a medal-contender Horsens IC will actually become remains to be seen, but for sure fans and spectators should be in for a basketball treat when Horsens IC takes the floor this year.

Standings - Basketligaen
Basketligaen Standings
 1. Amager BK 0-0 
 2. Naestved 0-0 
 3. SISU 0-0 
 4. Aabyhoj 0-0 
 5. Horsens IC 0-0 
 6. Bakken 0-0 
 7. Randers 0-0 
 8. Svendborg 0-0 
 9. Horsholm 0-0 
 10. Vejle 0-0 
 11. Aarhus BF 0-0 
 12. Virum 0-0 


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


17 former Stampede players in NBA training camps - by Eurobasket News
The Idaho Stampede announced today that 17 former players are on NBA training camp rosters. Training camp determines which players will make each NBA team's opening roster. Two former Stampede coaches, Joe Wolf, with the Milwaukee Bucks and Rory White, with the Los Angeles Clippers are also included on the NBA rosters.

The preseason schedule begins this Sunday, Oct. 6 when the Golden State Warriors take on the New Orleans Hornets and the Detroit Pistons travel to Miami to take on the Heat.


Following is the list of former Stampede players on 2007-08 NBA training camp rosters:

NBA Team Player Pos. Ht. Wt. College

Cleveland Lance Allred (6'11''-C-81, agency: SportsTalent, college: Weber St.) C 6-11 250 Weber State

Denver William 'Smush' Parker G 6-4 190 Fordham

Houston Rafer Alston G 6-2 175 Fresno State

Houston Marcus Campbell C 7-0 280 Mississippi State

Indiana Josh McRoberts* F 6-10 240 Duke

L.A. Clippers Mike Taylor G 6-2 166 Iowa State

Memphis Brent Petway F 6-8 205 Michigan

Milwaukee Matt Freije F 6-10 240 Vanderbilt

Milwaukee Damon Jones G 6-3 195 Houston

New Jersey Julius Hodge G 6-7 210 North Carolina State

New Jersey Awvee Storey G/F 6-6 225 Louisiana State

Oklahoma Mouhamed Sene* C 7-0 230 Senegal

Portland Luke Jackson F 6-7 215 Oregon

Portland Jamaal Tatum G 6-2 175 Southern Illinois

Sacramento Noel Felix F 6-9 225 Fresno State

Utah Britton Johnson F 6-10 210 Utah

Utah C.J. Miles* G 6-6 215 Skyline HS (TX)

*NBA Assigned Player

Courtesy of The Idaho Stampede

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


LIDOBA: Richard Ortega selected MVP. - by Jaime Gomez

Richard Ortega (188-G-82), Indios de San Francisco, was selected 2008 LIDOBA's MVP. Ortega finished the season with 11.2 ppg, 8.4 apg (1) and 2.8 rpg. Had a 36% 3PTFG and 49% FG., while leading his team into an improbable post season, after an 0-7 start.
Melvyn Lopez , Reales de La Vega was the Coach of the year; Bobby Pandy (198-F, college: Tex.A&M-Kingsv.), Reales de La Vega, Rookie of the Year.

LIDOBA's 2008 All Star Team:

PG Richard Ortega
SG Henry Lalane (199-F-78, college: St.Francis,NY)
SF Reggie Charles (201-F-81, agency: Global Sports Plaza)
PF Juan Bautista Araujo (206-F/C-83)
C Eddie Elisma (205-F/C-75, college: Georgia Tech)
6th Oskaris Lenderborg (189-G/F-72)


Coach Melvyn Lopez



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


Siauliai thrash TU/Rock in Baltic League opener - by Eurobasket News
Siauliai - TU/Rock 89:68

Siauliai came up strong in the second half to bruise TU/Rock in the first game in the Baltic League regular season for both teams. The Siauliai Arena welcomed more than 2000 spectators that saw their favorites taking a confident start to the campaign. A well-balanced Siauliai looked a bit sloppy at the start however changed the complexion of the game after the long break and finalized an overwhelming success at the end. Saulius Kuzminskas (210-C/F-82, college: California) posted 19 points and 9 rebounds to pace Siauliai. Gediminas Maceina (188-G-84) added 17 points, while Vitalijus Stanevicius (202-F-83) had 15 points for the winners. Tanoka Beard (205-F/C-71, agency: Arik Krayn Services, college: Boise St.) answered with 17 points and 6 rebounds for TU/Rock. Giorgi Tsintsadze (192-G-86) delivered 15 points and 8 assists in defeat.
The teams kept it close in the first half. TU/Rock led throughout the bigger part of the opening frame however the hosts used a 7:0 to cap the first tern and pile up a 21:18 lead. The Estonian team retained the lead after the intermission but Siauliai drew things at 37 at the interval. Siualiai went on a run in the third frame. Saulius Kuzminskas nailed 6 straight points and Kadziulis connected from afar for the home team to grab a 60:48 advantage. Virginijus Praskevicius (206-C/F-74) extended the margin to 16 points at the start of the fourth quarter and the hosts never looked back again. TU/Rock outrebounded the hosts 28:26 but committed 23 turnovers.
Siauliai will next take on Barons/LMT away from home. TU/Rock will host Lietuvos Rytas on October 5.

Siauliai: Saulius Kuzminskas 19, Gediminas Maceina 17, Vitalijus Stanevicius 15
TU/Rock: Tanoka Beard 17, Giorgi Tsintsadze 15

Three Estonian teams start in Baltic League Challenge Cup - by Eurobasket News
TTU opened their Baltic League Challenge Cup season with a comfortable win over Latvian Keizarmezs. TTU overcame a sloppy start to the game and grabbed a well-deserved 81:67 win at the end. Keizarmezs jumped to an 18:13 lead after the starting period however the hosts denied it in the second term and surged ahead after the long break. Joosep Toome (202-F-85) paced the home team with 25 points and 12 boards. Kristjan Makke (205-F/C-81, college: W.Illinois) provided 19 points, while Tamm finished with 13 points, 6 rebounds and 5 assists in the win. Keizarmezs answered with 19 points from Arturs Strelnieks (196-F-85).
Tallinna Kalev held off Zemgale 85:70 at home court. Talinna Kalev cruised to a 16-point lead at the interval and ensured an impressive win in the second half. Erki Kivinukk (199-F-73) knocked down 24 points for Tallinna Kalev. Johnny Gray (186-G-83, college: Pacific) provided 16 points, while Ivo Uibukant (197-F-80) netted 15 points for the winners. Martins Berkis (198-F-85) replied with 18 points for Zemgale in defeat.
Walga Velg meanwhile lost their battle to the Swedish Norrkoping Dolphins. The Swedish team accumulated a 15-point cushion at halftime and it was never endangered in the second half. Joe McNaull (208-C-72, agency: SportsTalent, college: Long Beach St.) provided 16 points for Norrkoping. Gee Gervin (189-G-76, college: Houston) produced 14 points, while Joakim Kjellbom added 12 points and 9 rebounds for the winning side. Raido Roos (185-G-84) replied with 16 points for Valga Welg. Veljo Vares (200-F/G-81) topscored for the Estonian team with 23 points and 6 rebounds.

*****************************************************
  EUROBASKET SUMMER LEAGUE   


Justin Johnson via the ESL lands in Hungary for the Soproni Sodogok Club - by Darryl Reshaw

Justin Johnson (203-F-83, college: St.Louis) played extremely well at the Eurobasket Summer League in Chicago this summer and statistically was the best big man at the combine.
He averaged 17ppg and 8rpg for the Madrid team and showcased a lot of aspects to his diverse game.
Justin was athletic and played with a serious intensity that captured the eyes of the ESL scouts.
As a result he was the only big man who made the ESL All Tournament 1st team in Chicago.
Justin has a great face up game and creates match up problems due to his perimeter skills and ball handling ability.
Last season he played for the St Louis Gunners in the ABA and averaged 14ppg and 10 rpg before the team folded.
During his college years he played at St Louis University and was known more as a role player and spent more time setting picks for the other scorers on the team.
The ESL was surprised by his talent level and how he was utilized in college but this happens all the time at certain programs in the United States.
Last week one of the ESL Directors Joe Charles from Thirdwind Sports who has an established relationship the Soproni Sodogok club was looking for a quality big man and contacted another ESL director for suggestions.
Justin name came up immediately because he was one of the most outstanding prospects in the ESL who was still available and he was highly recommended to the club as a quality player and person.
As a result Justin Johnson has a deal in Hungary with a two week evaluation period like most deals in Europe this time of the year.
This is another example of how the Eurobasket Summer League contacts has facilitated an opportunity for a player based off of his performance this summer to a club that was not at the ESL but respected our scouting expertise.
Joseph Charles is an excellent basketball talent evaluator from the New York City area and who has dealt with a range of top-level prospects from the East Coast and helped placed them all over Europe.
Joseph Charles is a former college basketball player who is associated with every aspect of New York City basketball and is much respected in the area.


Joseph Charles and the legendary Dereck Whittenburg who is the current head coach at Fordham University, former North Carolina State star and NCAA National Champion was responsible for bringing the ESL to New York City this summer.
All of the ESL scouts are former players who competed on a high level and understand the professional game both in the United States and Europe.
The networking ability of our scouts and contacts have benefited a lot of the players that have been placed as a direct result of playing in the ESL this summer.



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


Childress: I was already mentally ready for this change - by Kostas Papadopoulos
Maybe the most important signing this year at Euroleague was this of Josh Childress (203-G/F-83, college: Stanford) for Olympiacos B.C. Josh Childress surprised a lot of people by choosing Olympiacos and the Euroleague in the prime of an accomplished NBA career, but as he said at an interview for Euroleague.net and Mr. Frank Lawlor, he's already finding what he came for:

How do you like Greece so far?
'So far, I am really enjoying myself and getting to see what I can of Athens. It's a great city and I am just having fun using my free time to try to learn about a new culture.'

You surprised a lot of people this summer by joining Olympiacos to play in the Euroleague. What was the opportunity you saw that convinced you to make this move?
'I think that what I found was a good opportunity for me as a person and as a player to grow. Granted, it's not growing in the NBA, where I was until now, but it's growing in a way that was important to me. Obviously, it was a big step both personally and career-wise, but I am sure right now that it was a good move.'

After you made your decision this summer, everyone was talking about some of the best basketball they had ever seen involving European teams and players at the Olympics. Did that reinforce your decision to try the European game?
'That didn't have a great effect on me personally, because I was already mentally ready for this change. But I think that seeing the Olympics allowed other people who maybe didn't know before to see the level of basketball here and see that it's very, very high. That, obviously, was a good thing for basketball.'

As a player who proved himself at all levels in your own country, what attracted you to the European game in the prime of your career?
'I think just seeing the style of play here in terms of getting back to a team game was something that really attracted me. I had been four years in the NBA and it's a different game. This is little more team-focused, team-oriented, which is something I felt like it would be good to get back to.'

Everyone wants to see you in action, but have you had a chance to see the Greek fans in action, yet?
'The truth is that I really haven't yet. We have played just one preseason tournament in Greece, and that was in a smaller gym, so I haven't been able yet to get a real idea of how it's going to be. We have our first games in the next few weeks, and then I'll get the chance to see how crazy and rowdy they are. I am looking forward to it.'

Tell us about the team. Who did you know about before you arrived and who are the guys that are new to you that you've connected with on the court so far?
'The only player I really knew, and not personally, was Lynn Greer (186-G-79, college: Temple) and Sofoklis Schortsianitis (206-C-85). Those were the only two I had seen much of. Now, during preseason, I'm just connecting with all the guys and I think we have a great team. We have a lot of new players to it takes everybody time to get accustomed to each other. So far I enjoy play with them and getting to know them on and off the court.'

How has learning a new style of play been so far?
'I'm trying. The last game we play I got a couple travelling calls I am not used to. It's going take time in that regard, and I am impatient to do well. My coach and my teammates have been great in trying to help me be patient and realize that it's going to take a little time. I just know that the sooner I can get used to it, the better.'

Your coach, Panagiotis Yannakis , is a legend in Europe, a champion as both a player and a coach, and obviously an important person in your transition. How is he helping you get accustomed?
'He's been very helpful, doing whatever he can to try to help me through this process. He's basically trying to teach me, taking it upon himself to teach me how to be successful here like he has been in his career. And I appreciate it.'

Some people have called Euroleague game a perfect hybrid between the NCAA and the NBA: the very passionate crowds and team basketball of the former, with a skill level that is always getting closer to the latter. Do you see that comparison as accurate?
'I think it's a very accurate comparison. It's the same exact thing that I would say, both ways. And I think that year after year that skill level is getting higher. European basketball is getting better and more skillful at the same time.'

Do you consider yourself a trailblazer?
'People have called me that, and I do agree to an extent. I guess I am just the first guy in my position who wanted to try Europe at this stage of his career. And I'm going to give it my best shot. Whether a trailblazer or not, I felt comfortable that this was a good fit for me. I am sure it will be an eye-opener for other guys who will see me and maybe give Europe a shot, too.'

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


KORISLIIGA: Antti Nikkila back in Finland - by Rauno Hurmalainen
Finnish NT C Antti Nikkila (210-F/C-78, college: Valparaiso) is back to Finland and his home city Tampere. Nikkila has decided to play on Pyrinto roster as long as his agent has found a job for him somewhere in Southern Europe. Nikkila played in Finland last time 10 years ago (1998-99) and spent then four years at Valparaiso U.
in Indiana, USA. Later (2003-08) Nikkila has been playing professionally in Greece, France, Czech R. and Italy.
Korisliiga (Top League) 2008-09 season will start on Friday October 3.

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


Fersped Rabotnicki inks NT player Dime Tasovski and American Ronnie Ross - by Eurobasket News
After one year in Strumica 2005, National Team player Dime Tasovski (202-F-80, agency: Interperformances) returned to his Fersped Rabotnicki. In Strumica's jersey he had pretty good performance last season leading it to the play-off final. Ha also played four EuroCup games averaging 14.8 ppg, 3.3 rpg, 2.3 apg and 1.3 spg. At the end of the season he was named 'Eurobasket.com All-Macedonian League 1st Team -08'. Tasovski already spent three years in Rabitnicki in the past. He was member of the team from 2004 to 2007. In 2005 and 2007 his Rabotnicki grabbed the title in Macedonian championship. Actually in 2005 the team from Skopje celebrated double-crown, domestic league and National Cup. Before Rabotnicki, Dime Tasovski spent many seasons in Zito Vardar Veles. At his last one with Veles, Tasovski won his first championship trophy of Macedonia. This summer he was a member of Macedonian National Team which after 10 years managed to book a spot for EuroBasket.

Fresped Rabotnicki also announced signing of American player Ronnie Ross (187-G-79, college: Utah St.). Experienced guard spent some time on try-out with the team from Skopje and it seems he done a good job. Ross played last season in Bosnian team Sloboda Dita.

Swisslion Pelister to return Popovic, MZT beats Prishtina - by Eurobasket News
Swisslions Pelister could get another reinforcement for the upcoming season. After Vojislav Gojnic (208-C-80, agency: Beo Basket) and Razic, Bojan Popovic (206-F-81) is close to sign new contract with the team. Popovic won't be a new face in Pelister as he already spent a last season there. Since the beginning of the last week Popovic is practicing with Pelister but none of the club's officials confirmed will he sign or not. If they agree terms, Popovic will be the last Pelister's reinforcement for the upcoming season. Before Pelister, Popovic used to played in Bosnia, Serbia and Greece. In 2007 he reached the final of Bosnian National Cup as a member of Slavija Istocno Sarajevo. Swisslion Pelister will have a pretty good team for the next season. Except Micic, Gojnic and Razic, there will be experienced Talevski as well as a point guard Milan Miljkovic (186-G-86).

In the meantime MZT Skopje had a last check before the beginning of the season. Ex Macedonian champion met BC Prishtine celebrating 77-71. It is important to be mentioned that MZT played this game without Srdjan Stankovic (209-C-75) and Miroslav Despotovic (200-G-83). According to MZT head coach Aleksandar Petrovic, his team needs to improve some elements at the defensive end. He also stated that MZT is ready for Saturday and most probably Stankovic and Despotovic will be in the roster.

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


Pre-Season Dudu Dadiani Memorial Tournament - by Lasha Danelia
DDMT is traditional pre-season tournament for Georgian League for last 7 years. Today there was a conference of all the member teams of Georgian League in Georgian Basketball Federation and tournament will be hosted by the hometown of Energy Invest Rustavi two times in a raw already. As a background these teams were the winners each year from 2002:

2002 Dinamo T.
2003 STU
2004 STU
2005 Avia
2006 Energy
2007 Energy

Teams were alloceted in 2 groups as following:

Group A
Avia
GSAU
Maccabi T.

Group B
Energy Invest
NTD
TSU
Dinamo T.

Calendar:

October 7
13:00 Avia -- Maccabi T.
15:00 Dinamo -- NTD
17:00 Energy -- TSU

October 8
13:00 Maccabi T. -- GSAU
15:00 TSU -- NTD
17:00 Energy -- Dinamo T.

October 9
13:00 GSAU -- Avia
15:00 TSU -- Dinamo
17:00 Energy -- NTD

October 10
13:00 THE GAME FOR 5TH PLACE
15:00 THE GAME FOR 3RD PLACE
17:00 THE FINAL

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


Deutsche Bank Skyliners break Eisbren Ballsporthalle Jinx With 65 To 55 Win - by Miles Schmidt-Scheuber





THE DEUTSCHE BANK SKYLINERS only had four days to recuperate from the thrilling win in Cologne, but managed an overall fine effort controlling the game and winning for the first time at home in the 2008-2009 season with a 65 to 55 win against The Eisbren Bremerhaven. The enthusiastic crowd of 4,390 saw a game of Skyliner power Basketball, as the fans were able to celebrate a win into the German reunion holiday. It marked the debut of new Skyliner American Adam Emmenecker, who didntt score, but did a fine job rebounding and showing his aggressive energy. I am pretty happy with my performance. It didnt really show in the stats, but I brought a lot of energy and tried to get people in position to succeed, explained Adam Emmenecker. Frankfurt won its second game in a row moving to 2-1. The Eisbren Bremerhaven lost their second game in a row and move to 1-2 in the standings. It was the second game in a row, that Bremerhaven shot miserably from three point land. They were a bit better shooting 7/25 against Frankfurt, because against Dsseldorf it was even worse at 5/29. At a combined 12/54 in two games from three point land, coach Sarunas Sakalauskas might want to rent NBA legend Larry Bird for some three point training. It was a game, where nothing went right for the Eisbren. Frankfurt simply outplayed us. They had more energy than we did and their defense was very strong. We missed too many free throws and for the second game in a row were cold from outside, commented American Marcus Slaughter.
For the first few minutes, the fans got a two man show with Lorenzo Gordon and Marcus Slaughter scoring all the points. Gordon gave Frankfurt its first lead as Roller found him inside. American Mike Gansey tied the score at six with a running floater from the wing. Both teams were playing at a very high tempo and were drilling home most shots. Ilian Evtimov looking to break out of his two game slump started strong with a swish three pointer. Bremerhaven kept pace with the Frankfurt momentum going on a four to zero run with hoops from Ivey and Wohlers. Simmons hit a three pointer and Gansey an off balance shot giving Bremerhaven the lead back at 13 to 12. However captain Pascal Roller sunk a three pointer giving Frankfurt a 15 to 13 lead and they would never look back again. German Domonik Bahiense De Mello snuck into the lane and was fed nicely with a crisp bounce pass from Allen. De Mello started showing his courageous sneaking into the zone last season, which has added a new dimension to his improving overall game. Small 1.75 American Giordan Watson closed out the first quarter with a runner as the buzzer sounded. Frankfurt led 19 to 16 playing a strong defense, but with small deficiencies under the boards giving up five offensive rebounds to Bremerhaven.
THE DEUTSCHE BANK SKYLINERS started the second quarter with the upper hand and momentum going on a four to zero run with much energy as Simmons scored off his offensive rebound and Roller stole the ball and went coast to coast and making a left handed lay in, which is a new weapon in his arsenal. Frankfurt led 23 to 16. Frankfurt went inside a few times finding Gordon, who was fouled. Simmons hit a fade away jumper and Frankfurt led 27 to 19. The Eisbren were having problems finding their rhythm, but were able to stay in game with consecutive points from Elegar and Gansey. Frankfurt still led 27 to 23. Frankfurt was playing the more consistent offense breaking away on a 9-1 run. Gordon scored in the zone, Evtimov kept his shooting range making a three pointer and Simmons scored in the zone showing his athletic skill. Frankfurt led 35 to 24. After a Simmons block, Roller hit a three pointer and Frankfurt led 38 to 27.The Eisbren continued to shoot very weak and Frankfurt was mixing up their game with successful plays on offense and defense. Evtimov scored on the fast break getting a Allen pass. At half time, Frankfurt led 42 to 29.
The third quarter jinx of last season, seems not to be carrying over into this season as THE DEUTSCHE BANK SKYLINERS raced out on an eight to zero run to lead 50 to 29. The Eisbren seemed paralyzed as nothing worked on offense as even easy open shots were not being made. Frankfurt now had the momentum and Bremerhaven was playing catch up Basketball. It was a low scoring quarter, as Frankfurt held the Eisbren to only six points. It could have been a lot worse down the stretch for Bremerhaven, but they closed out the third quarter with a six to three run. German Jan Lipke scored on a coast to coast gallop, Nicholson scored in the zone and Slaughter snuck in from the corner scoring on a dunk. Frankfurt was still leading 53 to 35. The story of game was the powerful Skyliner defense and the dismal 3/17 Eisbren shooting from three point land.
THE DEUTSCHE BANK SKYLINERS were lucky that they had had such a big lead, because they cooled down in the fourth quarter as Bremerhaven had a strong last quarter, but it was all too late in the end. Bremerhaven started on a five to zero run as Nicholson and Ivey scored. Frankfurt only led 56 to 40, but the difference in the last quarter were the timely baskets by Frankfurt. German Domonik Bahiesne De Mello, who hit two clutch three pointers keeping the Eisbren at bay and never letting them get too close. After American Derrick Allen hit an outside jumper, the Eisbren made one last run going on an eight to zero run. Little used 23 year old German Janis Michael hit a three pointer, American Yemi Nicholson sneaked inside for a layup and Marcus Slaughter stepped outside for a three pointer. Now Frankfurt led only 61 to 53. It could of even got closer as Nicholson stole the ball and missed a layup in traffic. However with two minutes remaining, Allen scored on an Evtimov give and go and Frankfurt was back up by ten points. Nicholson scored on a tip in and Roller scored on a mid distance jumper. Frankfurt deserved to win the game as they controlled the game for long periods of the game and just played a more complete defense.
THE DEUTSCHE BANK SKYLINERS were led by American Lorenzo Gordon with 16 points and 11 rebounds. American Keith Simmons chipped in with 13 points, six rebounds and three steals. Ilian Evtimov is finding his way back to his form from last season scoring 12 points, six rebounds and three assists. Captain Pascal Roller had his usual good game chipping in with 11 points and six assists. The Eisbren Bremerhaven were led by American Marcus Slaughter with 13 points and eight rebounds. American Jeb Ivey chipped in with 12 points and six rebounds.
It was the second win in a row for THE DEUTSCHE BANK SKYLINERS, who continue to show their improvement from game to game. This is really a game that both teams want to forget as they shot poorly from the free throw line as well as from the field. Bremerhaven was able to out rebound Frankfurt 41 to 38, but the 18 turnovers by the Eisbren was helped by the fierce Frankfurt defense. Other keys in the Frankfurt victory was being able to limit point guard Giordan Watson from his playmaking skills and not letting him penetrate in the zone. Frankfurt also contained Marcus Slaughter for long phases of the game as he seemed intimidated in many actions on the court. Frankfurt also did a smart job limiting the center duo of Elegar/Nicholson to 10 points and 10 rebounds in nearly 40 minutes. It was a total team effort, even if guys like Wysocki and Allen were not much of a factor. It is important, that Frankfurt can rely on many players to come up big and not just on one or two guys. Frankfurt played very clever and had some guys scoring in clutch situations as the Eisbren were trying to make a run. Bremerhaven didnt have a good day, and Frankfurt might have had more of a challenge if the opponent had shot better. A win is a win and Frankfurt will search for their third win on Saturday October 11th at 19:00 in Ulm.

Douloudis clinches Hannover move - by Moritz Korff
The UBC Hannover Tigers (2. Bundesliga Pro B) have snapped up Babis Douloudis (188-G-81). The former German junior-international won the 2. Bundesliga North-championship with BG 74 Goettingen in 2006-07 and averaged 11.2 points through 24 games on the way to the title. The 27-year-old guard previously suited up for the Koeln 99ers in the Bundesliga and shot hoops for Braunschweig and Freiburg in the second German league.
Meanwhile, French forward Yunce Akinocho (198-F-87, agency: Rasmussen Services, college: Coll.Sequoias CC) who had been announced as a new player of the Hannover squad as well, is not going to play for coach Michael Goch in this up and coming season. Reportedly Akinocho is considering to sign with another club.

Henderson replaces Harris in Itzehoe - by Moritz Korff
The CRE Eagles Itzehoe (Regionalliga North) have found a player to replace Brad Harris (191-G-86, college: Lee), who returned to the USA for personal reasons. It's Brian Henderson (193-G-85, college: ODU), a 22-year-old shooting guard from Richmond, Virginia. He played for the Old Dominion University (NCAA1), the same school that former Itzehoe topscorer John Waller (193-F-82, college: ODU) attended. Henderson averaged 9.5 points, 2.5 rebounds and 1.4 assist in 33 games for the Monarchs in this past 2007-08 season. It is unknown yet, when the new Itzehoe player will make his debut in Germany.

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


Childress: I was already mentally ready for this change - by Kostas Papadopoulos
Maybe the most important signing this year at Euroleague was this of Josh Childress (203-G/F-83, college: Stanford) for Olympiacos B.C. Josh Childress surprised a lot of people by choosing Olympiacos and the Euroleague in the prime of an accomplished NBA career, but as he said at an interview for Euroleague.net and Mr. Frank Lawlor, he's already finding what he came for:

How do you like Greece so far?
'So far, I am really enjoying myself and getting to see what I can of Athens. It's a great city and I am just having fun using my free time to try to learn about a new culture.'

You surprised a lot of people this summer by joining Olympiacos to play in the Euroleague. What was the opportunity you saw that convinced you to make this move?
'I think that what I found was a good opportunity for me as a person and as a player to grow. Granted, it's not growing in the NBA, where I was until now, but it's growing in a way that was important to me. Obviously, it was a big step both personally and career-wise, but I am sure right now that it was a good move.'

After you made your decision this summer, everyone was talking about some of the best basketball they had ever seen involving European teams and players at the Olympics. Did that reinforce your decision to try the European game?
'That didn't have a great effect on me personally, because I was already mentally ready for this change. But I think that seeing the Olympics allowed other people who maybe didn't know before to see the level of basketball here and see that it's very, very high. That, obviously, was a good thing for basketball.'

As a player who proved himself at all levels in your own country, what attracted you to the European game in the prime of your career?
'I think just seeing the style of play here in terms of getting back to a team game was something that really attracted me. I had been four years in the NBA and it's a different game. This is little more team-focused, team-oriented, which is something I felt like it would be good to get back to.'

Everyone wants to see you in action, but have you had a chance to see the Greek fans in action, yet?
'The truth is that I really haven't yet. We have played just one preseason tournament in Greece, and that was in a smaller gym, so I haven't been able yet to get a real idea of how it's going to be. We have our first games in the next few weeks, and then I'll get the chance to see how crazy and rowdy they are. I am looking forward to it.'

Tell us about the team. Who did you know about before you arrived and who are the guys that are new to you that you've connected with on the court so far?
'The only player I really knew, and not personally, was Lynn Greer (186-G-79, college: Temple) and Sofoklis Schortsianitis (206-C-85). Those were the only two I had seen much of. Now, during preseason, I'm just connecting with all the guys and I think we have a great team. We have a lot of new players to it takes everybody time to get accustomed to each other. So far I enjoy play with them and getting to know them on and off the court.'

How has learning a new style of play been so far?
'I'm trying. The last game we play I got a couple travelling calls I am not used to. It's going take time in that regard, and I am impatient to do well. My coach and my teammates have been great in trying to help me be patient and realize that it's going to take a little time. I just know that the sooner I can get used to it, the better.'

Your coach, Panagiotis Yannakis , is a legend in Europe, a champion as both a player and a coach, and obviously an important person in your transition. How is he helping you get accustomed?
'He's been very helpful, doing whatever he can to try to help me through this process. He's basically trying to teach me, taking it upon himself to teach me how to be successful here like he has been in his career. And I appreciate it.'

Some people have called Euroleague game a perfect hybrid between the NCAA and the NBA: the very passionate crowds and team basketball of the former, with a skill level that is always getting closer to the latter. Do you see that comparison as accurate?
'I think it's a very accurate comparison. It's the same exact thing that I would say, both ways. And I think that year after year that skill level is getting higher. European basketball is getting better and more skillful at the same time.'

Do you consider yourself a trailblazer?
'People have called me that, and I do agree to an extent. I guess I am just the first guy in my position who wanted to try Europe at this stage of his career. And I'm going to give it my best shot. Whether a trailblazer or not, I felt comfortable that this was a good fit for me. I am sure it will be an eye-opener for other guys who will see me and maybe give Europe a shot, too.'

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


Coach Pete Miller: "Being in contention for a playoff spot the whole season" - by Fred Roggen
Eurobasket had the chance to talk with coach Pete Miller , who returned to Holland after thirty years, about his new job as coach of Aris Friesland and how his team performed in the off-season.

You have signed for three years at Aris Friesland and you work full time the next three years (12 months per year) in Leeuwarden, not only with the first team but you also take the youth under your control together with Andre Roorda isn't?
We aren't that far along that you could say that I am going to take control of the youth program. I have spoken with Andre and we have had some very interesting conversations. But I need to take a longer look at the youth structure here and try to understand the complete situation before any decisions are made. There will also have to ba talks with all clubs involved to see how we all can cooperate in a positive way. It is true, however, that I do have a lot of experience in the youth area and I would be happy to give my knowledge and experience to the people here. It is also clear that improvements need to made and I hope that we are able to find a way to work together and create a productive youth program here in Leeuwarden and the surrounding region.

What is your impression of the organization after the first month spent in Leeuwarden?
The club management has done an outstanding job of organizing things here that enables us to work very well in training. Outside of basketball there was also an outstanding job of getting things ready for me and all the new players. All of the players are happy with apartments and cars and a lot of little things that add to making them comfortable. I am sure I can speak for the players as well as myself when I say that we are all very impressed and thankful at what so many have done and are continuing to do for us. We all feel at home here in Leeuwarden. And I would like to express my thanks to the club for all that they have done for us.

You made a lot of off-season moves on you're squad. How much of that was your input?
Our manager, Gert Schurer and I worked very close putting the team together. And we also, as everyone knows, have received help through our partnership with the Eiffel Towers - for which we are very thankful. So it really wasn't any one person's efforts that resulted in putting this team together. The only thing I expressed was the type of players I wanted to have and then we went all together from there.

It seems to me, with all the off-season moves, that you have become a more balanced team then we have seen the last season in Leeuwarden. What are the strengths and weaknesses of the team sofar?
We think we are a pretty well balanced team and that has shown in most of our preseason games. Our biggest strength is definitly our athletic. We have players that are very athletic and that is the kind of players that I was looking for. It enables us to play fast and aggressive. But not only are the players athletic they are also talented. Another strength is our team chemistry - the players have really bonded quite quickly. What we must do, and this is one of our weaknesses, is develop a new mentality in a lot of the players. Most of them have come from programs where they weren't the 'go to guys' and not even the second option. The players must learn that they are the ones that carry the responsibility now. It isn't as easy as it sounds but we are making progress. A major weakness we have is our youth and inexperience. This is something that we are dealing with in our practices and games and from game to game it is getting better. But we must have patience in this regard. Of the new players four come directly out of college which makes them around 21 years old. And then I have three U20 players that will play a definite role in the team and none of them have played in the Eredivisie either. All of this results in seeing ups in downs in the games. But because all of them are talented we should be able to get this under control.

What's been the biggest coaching challenge for you, with this new team?
The major challenges are what I stated above. But we work on this every day and I am seeing progress. It also helps having an experienced player like Rein van der Kamp in the team. The new players look up to him and his experience in the league is invaluable for us. But as I said, the challenge is changing the mentality in the team and overcoming the youth and inexperience.

How would you grade your off-season?
I think the pre-season could have been somewhat better but it definitly wasn't bad. We are seeing improvment from week to week and game to game. Actually last week in Almelo we made some huge strides. We should be ready for the season. And we have to be ready: we have a difficult schedule at the beginning.

What do you expect from the upcoming season and What are your goals?
I expect us to keep improving constantly. We will be very competitive. Our goals are, first and obviously, to have a better season than last year. We have a goal of being in contention for a playoff spot the whole season and making the playoffs. I think that is realistic and achievable but we must understand that there are other teams that have that same goal. So we will have to be prepared physically and mentally for every game.

Eurobasket would like to thank Pete Miller for taking the time to do this interview and wish him and his team good luck the upcoming season.

Robby Bostian: "Want to be more of a leader on and off the court" - by Fred Roggen

Thanks Robby for taking some time to talk to eurobasket.com. Robby Bostain (191-G/F-84, agency: Sports Plus International, college: Furman) played for Landstede Zwolle in the past season and averaged 17.4ppg(FGP: 41.7%, 3PT: 36.1%, FT: 80.2%), 5.0rpg, 3.9apg, 2.6spg. Robby was one of the most notable players last season in the Dutch Eredivisie and surprised us when he re-signed with Landstede Zwolle.

How was your first pro experience in Holland last season?
My first pro year was a great experience. I couldnt of asked for a better situation then here in Zwolle. Landstede is a great place to grow as a player and person, you are around quality people who really go out of there way to make sure you are comfortable. Being in Holland, where everyone speaks english pretty well really helped as well.

Landsted is a team that relies mostly on young national players. How much did you know about Landstede Zwolle and your role before you came to the club?

I didnt know a whole lot. Nick Sanders, who was a former player for Zwolle, and I played in college together and then he came back as an assistant coach my senior year. So, he told me a little bit about the situation and what it was like to play professionally in Holland.

How would you rate your performance last season in Zwolle?

Indivdually, I thought I had a pretty solid year. I really enjoyed playing for Coach Van den Belt and playing in his system. Being my first year out of school and not knowing what to expect, I thought it was a solid season for me. As a team, I thought we really improved over the season, We started out a little slow, but once we got familiar with each other, we reallly played well the second half of the year.

What are your strengths and weaknesses on and off the court?
On the court, I am a guy who tries to do a little bit of everything. I like being a versatile guy who can have an impact on a game in many ways. I also think I have a really good work ethic and am very disciplined in things I do on and off the court. Im not the fastest or strongest guy on the court, so I really spend alot of time on the fundamentals of the game and get as good as I can at the basics. One of the things I want to work on this year is being more vocal and more of a leader on and off the court. My first year here, I didnt know what to expect so I tried to get comfortable with everything and probably lead more by example. With this being my second year I want to work on taking on a little bit more of a leadership role, and really focus on having a great season here in Zwolle and making Landstede a really tough opponent.

What were the main reasons why you re-signed with Landstede Zwolle?
To be honest, I really didnt know where I was going to end up after my first season. I felt like I had a pretty solid year and I wanted to see what kind of intrest was out there. I wasnt sure exactly how everything worked with agents and teams, so I took a little time to see where I was at and who was interested. I had kept in touch with Landstede throughout the summer, and when It came down to it I wanted to go to place where I was wanted and I would have another opportunity to improve my game and play for a great organization and coach.

Your coach Herman van den Belt is said to be pretty good with young players. How much of a role has a coach like him played in your development?
Its been great, I really felt like I improved alot from my senior of college to my first season with Zwolle. Coach is really good about allowing you to spend time on the fundamentals of dribbling and shooting during morning practices. Coached has also really helped with the mental aspect of the game and ways to approach the game and prepare yourself. Confidence and preparation are a huge part of the game.

Do you feel any special pressure after your impressive performances of last season and the high expectations for the upcoming season?
Not really, I feel like I will be a little more on the radar screen with it being my second year and having a solid first year. But, I just try to prepare myself the best I can and then just go out and play. We have a lot of familiar faces from last year, so I think the familiarity with each other really helps and we are looking forward to the upcoming season.

What do you expect from the upcoming season and What are your goals?

We have written down some team goals for ourselves this year, but I think the main thing is just to focus on ourselves and get the best out of each other and the rest will take care of itself. Like I said earlier, I think having alot of the same nucleus as last year really helps and I think that is going to be a big strength for us this year.

Thanks Robby for the interview. Good luck this season with Landstede Zwolle.



FEB Team-By-Team Analysis: ZZ Leiden - by Sanders Jackson


Zorg & Zekerheid Leiden

Head coach: Ivo Boom

Record in 2007-08: 16-24 (failed to make the playoffs)

Additions: Bubba Walther, Niels Meijer, Cedric McGowan, Ryan Warner, Joey Schelvis

Outlook:

ZZ Leiden had a disappointing 2007-08 season, not being able to develop a strong team chemistry and overcoming a bad start. ZZ Leidne won its first two regualr season games, only then to lose nine games in a row, which they really never recovered from. In the end, when the window of opportunity was available for a playoff spot was still open, ZZ's lack of team chemisry betrayed them, closing out the season losing 7 of 8. ZZ could not cash in after gaining quality wins (3 wins over Hanzevast Capitals, home win over Matrixx Magixx) and have to avoid the blowout losses (15 losses by double digit numbers) that can be detrimental to the team psyche. Floor leaders J.S. Nash (188-G-83, agency: Court Side, college: Oregon St.) and Dutch international Vincent Krieger (185-G-74, agency: Court Side, college: NC-Asheville) return as lead guards, with double-double threat David Chiotti (206-F/C-84, agency: Court Side, college: N.Mexico) returning to man the paint. Hardnosed Chiotti was ZZ's most reliable player last season, having 20 double-doubles last season with averaging 15.7 ppg. and 9.3 rpg. while shooting 60.2% FG. Chiotti will have to improve at the FT line, shooting Shaq-like numbers of 50%. Niels Meijer (204-F-80, agency: R.H.Consultancy) comes over from Hanzevast Capitals and his experience should boost ZZ's frontline. If ZZ can get consistent production from Johan Kuijper (217-C-80) it wll be a bonus. Kuijper is capable of changing the game around for ZZ, who can clog up the middle and free up ZZ's perimeter players to overplay the wings.


For the team of head coach Ivo to make a step back froward, a good start is necessary, with a team on the same page with each other vital (as it always should be). But if ZZ gets off to a bad start. It can be another long season looming.


Next: Rotterdam Challengers



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


Soproni Sordogok sign Justin Johnson - by Eurobasket
Soproni Sordogok signed 25-year old American forward Justin Johnson (203-F-83, college: St.Louis). Johnson played most recently at Team Madrid in the Eurobasket Summer League in Chicago, where he averaged 17.0ppg, 8.0rpg. He was selected to All-Eurobasket Summer League in Chicago 1st Team. Last season he played at St.Louis Stunners in ABA with 14.0ppg and 10.0rpg stats. It will be his second professional season.

*****************************************************
  ICELAND   


Keflavik signs Jesse Pellot-Rosa - by Einar Johannsson
Keflavik have signed the foreigner for the team for upcoming season. They signed guard/forward Jesse Pellot-Rosa (193-G-84, agency: Pro One Sports, college: Va Commonwealth) who played in Puerto Rico last season.
Pellot-Rosa is a 6'4' allaround and has already arrived in Keflavik, Iceland - played his first game last night against Thor Akureyri in Powerade cup scoring 14 pts and grabbing 7 rebounds in 17 minutes in a 100-81 win. Pellot-Rosa had 10,7 ppg and 7,1 rpg as a senior at Va Commonwealth.

Jesse Pellot-Rosa played with B.A. Walker (188-G-84, agency: Pro One Sports, college: Va Commonwealth) in Va Commonwealth in NCAA - Walker played for Keflavik last season but has now signed for Rotterdam in Holland. He had great season for Keflavik, scoring 22 ppg along with 4,7 rpg and 4,5 apg.

Keflavik will play KR in semifinal in Powerade on friday night and in the other game of semi final it will be Snaefell and Grindavik who will play, after Snaefell beat Tindastoll by 25 and Grindavik beat Njardvik by 18.

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


Pre-Season Round Up - by Yehonatan Eliahu
Three pre-season games has been held today. At the first match of the evening, Maccabi Rishon Le-Zion beat Hapoel Migdal Jerusalem 82-79 in front of 1400 spectators in Jerusalem's home court. Guided by coach Ziv Erez, Jerusalem's ex-coach, Rishon came off with a good start, leading 46-41 at halftime. Some three pointers made by Jeruslem's Sharon Shason (206-F-79, agency: Arik Krayn Services) kept Jerusalem close, but at the end Rishon grabbed the win behind a nice performance by the new acquisition Robert Conley (198-G/F-77, college: Clayton St.).

Rishon- Conley 21, Tutt 20, Mossinzon 10

Jerusalem- Shason 22, Watson 14, Bowers 9

Elsewhere, Altshuler Saham Galil Gilboa overcame the newcomer Eroni Kiryat Ata 90-73 in a quite easy way. Hapoel took the lead early in the game and never dropped it. Brian Roberts (188-G-85, agency: Arik Krayn Services) did well with 18, Brian Randle (203-F-85) came with 14 and Israeli Gal Mekel (195-G-88, college: Wichita St.) added 12. Terence Roberts was the best for Ata with 30.

Iscar Naharia demolished Ironi Ramat Gan 84-59 and displayed a great performance again. American Ron Lewis (193-G-84, agency: Arik Krayn Services, college: Ohio St.) top scored Naharia with 16 points, while Israeli Raviv Limonad (192-G-84, agency: Arik Krayn Services) added 13.

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


Challenge Cup begins in the Baltic League - by Eurobasket News
The big season of basketball was opened yesterday with seven games played in the Baltic League Challenge Cup. Five Latvian squads gave the start to an exciting season.
VEF Riga were the ones to hit the road a bit earlier as they got on court against Swedish Norrkoping on September 30. VEF Riga prevailed registering their first win in the season. The Swedish team got to a brave start as they built a 28:23 lead after ten minutes of action. VEF Riga struggled to adjust their game and the visitors enjoyed a 5-point cushion at the big break. The situation hardly changed in the third frame as the Dolphins even extended the margin to 6 points before the final period. However the hosts used a 13:0 rally midway through the frame to turn a 5-point deficit into an 8-point advantage. Gee Gervin (189-G-76, college: Houston) later cut the distance to 3 points but Edgars Jeromanovs (186-G-86) and Jurijs Aleksejevs (201-F-85) secured the victory for VEF Riga at the end. Maris Gulbis (203-F-85, agency: Interperformances) provided 22 points to pace the winners. Gee Gervin answered with game-high 29 points and 6 assists for the Dolphins. Joakim Kjellbom provided 17 points in the loss.
Liepajas Lauvas were narrowly beaten by Aisciai 73:76 at home. The visitors built a 7-point lead before the fourth term however Liepajas Lauvas opened the final period with an 8:0 run to step in front. They still led by a single point with 30 seconds left but Rinkevicius and Ezerskis dropped 3 freebies to seal the victory for Aisciai. Donatas Motiejunas (213-C-90) led the winners with 22 points. The hosts responded with 18 points from Stalbergs. Jevgenijs Kosuskins (202-F-77) knocked down 15 points for Liepajas Lauvas.
Zemgale faced Tallinna Kalev in another yesterdays game. Tallinna Kalev held off Zemgale 85:70 at home court. The hosts cruised to a 16-point lead at the interval and ensured an impressive win in the second half. Erki Kivinukk (199-F-73) knocked down 24 points for Tallinna Kalev. Johnny Gray provided 16 points, while Ivo Uibukant netted 15 points for the winners. Martins Berkis (198-F-85) replied with 18 points for Zemgale in defeat.
TTU opened their Baltic League Challenge Cup season with a comfortable win over Latvian Keizarmezs. TTU overcame a sloppy start to the game and grabbed a well-deserved 81:67 win at the end. Keizarmezs jumped to an 18:13 lead after the starting period however the hosts denied it in the second term and surged ahead after the long break. Joosep Toome (202-F-85) paced the home team with 25 points and 12 boards. Kristjan Makke provided 19 points, while Tamm finished with 13 points, 6 rebounds and 5 assists in the win. Keizarmezs answered with 19 points from Arturs Strelnieks (196-F-85).
Finally ASK/Buki failed to score a win against Kaunas Triobet at home. The Lithuanian team proved stronger 82:72 at the end. Arturas Milaknis (195-G-86) topscored with 23 points for the visitors. Edmunds Gabrans (190-G-79) and Arturs Brunins (200-F-82) answered with 17 points apiece for ASK/Buki.

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


Standings - Division A
Div.A Standings
 1. Al Riyadi 0-0 
 2. Moutahed 0-0 
 3. Antranik 0-0 
 4. Sagesse 0-0 
 5. Anibal 0-0 
 6. Champville 0-0 
 7. Blue Stars 0-0 
 8. Feytroun 0-0 
 9. Tebnine 0-0 


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


Siauliai thrash TU/Rock in Baltic League opener - by Eurobasket News
Siauliai - TU/Rock 89:68

Siauliai came up strong in the second half to bruise TU/Rock in the first game in the Baltic League regular season for both teams. The Siauliai Arena welcomed more than 2000 spectators that saw their favorites taking a confident start to the campaign. A well-balanced Siauliai looked a bit sloppy at the start however changed the complexion of the game after the long break and finalized an overwhelming success at the end. Saulius Kuzminskas (210-C/F-82, college: California) posted 19 points and 9 rebounds to pace Siauliai. Gediminas Maceina (188-G-84) added 17 points, while Vitalijus Stanevicius (202-F-83) had 15 points for the winners. Tanoka Beard (205-F/C-71, agency: Arik Krayn Services, college: Boise St.) answered with 17 points and 6 rebounds for TU/Rock. Giorgi Tsintsadze (192-G-86) delivered 15 points and 8 assists in defeat.
The teams kept it close in the first half. TU/Rock led throughout the bigger part of the opening frame however the hosts used a 7:0 to cap the first tern and pile up a 21:18 lead. The Estonian team retained the lead after the intermission but Siauliai drew things at 37 at the interval. Siualiai went on a run in the third frame. Saulius Kuzminskas nailed 6 straight points and Kadziulis connected from afar for the home team to grab a 60:48 advantage. Virginijus Praskevicius (206-C/F-74) extended the margin to 16 points at the start of the fourth quarter and the hosts never looked back again. TU/Rock outrebounded the hosts 28:26 but committed 23 turnovers.
Siauliai will next take on Barons/LMT away from home. TU/Rock will host Lietuvos Rytas on October 5.

Siauliai: Saulius Kuzminskas 19, Gediminas Maceina 17, Vitalijus Stanevicius 15
TU/Rock: Tanoka Beard 17, Giorgi Tsintsadze 15

Techasas, Neptunas, Kaunas Triobet and Aisciai victorious at the start - by Eurobasket News
Six Lithuanian teams enjoyed the start of the Baltic League Challenge Cup yesterday. Four of them pulled out with wins after the opening round.
Techasas prevailed in the Lithuanian derby against Alytus. Trailing by 2 points at halftime and 5 points after three quarters Techasas nevertheless found the way to recover. They burst out with a 33:11 rally in the final period to eke out an impressive 87:70 victory at the end. Demarius Bolds (170-G-84, college: Missouri Western) nailed 22 points to lead Techasas. J.J. Tauai (190-G-85, college: Bradley) had 18 points and 11 rebounds, while Chris Hill (178-G-83, agency: N.E.T., college: Wisc.-Milwaukee) and Paulius Staskunas (200-F-74) finished with 16 points each for Techasas. Marius Janisius (203-F-77) answered with 24 points and 9 rebounds for Alytus. Zydrunas Urbonas (198-F-76) had 17 points and 8 rebounds in the loss.
Neptunas overwhelmed Suduva 94:78 in a high-octane clash at the Neptunas basketball Arena in Klaipeda. The home team jumped to a 23:13 lead at the first intermission but Suduva answered with explosive second term when they accounted for 31 points and rode to a 5-point halftime lead. However Neptunas looked a different team in the second half as they raised the tempo and left the opponents far behind. Martynas Mazeika (190-G-85, agency: LimeLight) netted 24 points for Neptunas. Deividas Gailius (200-F-88) contributed 22 points, while Valdas Vasylius (203-F-83, college: ODU) added 20 for the winning team. Cerneckis dropped 18 points for Suduva.
Triobet Kaunas toppled ASK/Buki in Latvia. The Lithuanian team proved stronger 82:72 at the end. Arturas Milaknis (195-G-86) topscored with 23 points for the visitors. Vytenis Jasikevicius (187-G-85) tallied 18 points and 10 rebounds in the win. Edmunds Gabrans (190-G-79) and Arturs Brunins answered with 17 points apiece for ASK/Buki.
Liepajas Lauvas were narrowly beaten by Aisciai 73:76 at home. The visitors built a 7-point lead before the fourth term however Liepajas Lauvas opened the final period with an 8:0 run to step in front. They still led by a single point with 30 seconds left but Rinkevicius and Ernestas Ezerskis (192-G-87, agency: Court Side) dropped 3 freebies to seal the victory for Aisciai. Donatas Motiejunas (213-C-90) led the winners with 22 points. Ernestas Ezerskis chipped in 19 points for Aisciai. The hosts responded with 18 points from Arturs Stalbergs (199-G/F-84, college: Evansville). Jevgenijs Kosuskins (202-F-77) knocked down 15 points for Liepajas Lauvas.

*****************************************************
  MONTENEGRO   


Montenegrin Cup 2009 : 1/16 Final games - by Dragan Scepanovic
Basketball Federation of Montenegro announced that in 16/Final of Montenegrin cup 2009 , 04/05.10.2008 will play :
1/16 final game, 04/05. 10. 2008 : In city of Podgorica : BC Podgorica - BC Kotor , in city of Bar : BC Mornar Bar II -BC Niksic II, in city of Golubovci : BC Zeta - BC Jedinstvo B.Polje , in city of B.Polje : BC Centar - BC Rudar Pljevlja , in city of Podgorica : BC Univerzitet Mediteran - BC Ulcinj, in city of Kolasin : BC Gorstak - BC Ljubovic Podgorica , in city of Podgorica : BC Studentski centar - BC Teodo Tivat

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


Chicago Bulls re-sign Ben Gordon to a qualifying offer - by Eurobasket News
Chicago Bulls announced that guard Ben Gordon (6'2''-G-83, college: Connecticut) accepted one-year qualifying offer worth $6.4 million. It means that after this season Gordon will become an unrestricted free agent. There was a lot of speculations this summer about Gordon and his possible departure overseas but at the end it didn't happen.
Gordon has wonderful four seasons behind him with the Bulls. At the last one he had 72 NBA appearances averaging 18.6 ppg, 3.1 rpg and 3 apg. Season 06/07 was even better for Gordon as his average digits in 82 regular season games were 21.4 ppg, 3.1 rpg ad 3.6 apg. For 6 play-off games his numbers were little bit lower 20.4 ppg, 3.8 rpg and 3.8 apg. Gordon was third pick on 2004 NBA Draft selected by the Bulls. He left Connecticut after three years with 18.5 ppg, 4.7 rpg and 4.5 apg in 03/04. He led it to NCAA title at the same year. Gordon entered into the NBA mix in style getting the award 'NBA All-Star Game All-Rookies Team -05'.

Meanwhile, Sacramento Kings named Shareef Abdur-Rahim (6'10''-F-76, college: California) assistant coach. NBA veteran retired this year as a professional player after he had 1.7 ppg and 1.7 rpg for 6 NBA games with the Kings in 07/08. Abdur-Rahim had 12 NBA pro years behind him as a member of Sacramento, Portland, Atlanta and Vancouver. He was member of USA Dream Team on the Olympic Games in Sydney in 2000.

Warriors add Dickau, Spurs ink Gaines and waive Morrison - by Eurobasket News
Golden State Warriors signed contract with free agent guard Dan Dickau (6'0''-G-78, agency: Priority Sports, college: Gonzaga).
30-year old player spent last season in Los Angeles Clippers appearing in 67 games with average digits 5.3 ppg, 1.4 rpg and 2.6 apg. Actually he spent some time during the 07/08 pre-season with the Knicks but at the end he moved to LA. On season 06/07, Dickau played for Portland Trail Blazers adding 3.3 ppg and 1.4 apg in 50 games. Except these two teams, Dan Dickau also has experience from playing in New Orleans, Dallas and Atlanta. His career highlights happened in jersey of New Orleans Hornets on season 04/05. For 67 games Dickau averaged 13.2 ppg, 2.7 rpg, 5.2 apg and 1.1 spg. Dickau will wear uniform with 10 on his back. With this signing, Golden State currently has 19 players under contract.

San Antonio Spurs announced signing of forward Charles Gaines (6'7''-F-81, agency: Higher Vision Sports, college: S.Mississippi). Per team policy, terms of the deal were not disclosed.
Gaines is coming from Turkish team Galatasaray Cafe Crown with average digits 12.4 ppg, 7.3 rpg and 1.1 spg in 17 ULEB Cup games. He had very similar digits for 31 games in Turkish TBL. Gaines helped his team to reach ULEB Cup semifinals this year. Before Galatasaray, he used to play for DKV Joventut Badalona, Adecco ASVEL, Reggio Calabria and Michigan Mayhem (CBA). Gaines is a 2004 graduate of S. Mississippi.

At the same time the Spurs announced they have waived guard Brian Morrison (6'2''-G-82, college: UCLA).
26-year old player joined San Antonio from D-League team Los Angeles D-Fenders.

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


LSU's Johnson lands first commitment - by Eurobasket News
Brad Reese (6'6''-F) made his mind made up last week, but he wanted to make sure his family got the word from him before anybody else.
So the 6-foot-6, 200-pound swingman sat on his news for a few days.

When Wednesday arrived, though, he couldnt wait any longer to call Trent Johnson to let the first-year LSU basketball coach know he wanted to play for the Tigers.

A sophomore at Gulf Coast Community College in Panama City, Fla., Reese is the first commitment of Johnsons first LSU recruiting class.

'It's the best fit for me and thats something I felt almost from the first time I met Coach J', Reese said Wednesday night.

'He's a first-class coach who has been successful everywhere hes been and I believe in him and think hell get LSU headed back in the right direction'.

The timing is also a perfect fit for Reese and the Tigers.

LSUs roster will feature five seniors this season, leaving at least that many holes to plug by the start of the 2009-10 season.

Reese is the first player to claim a scholarship offer and will be expected to battle for playing time right away at the guard spots vacated by Garrett Temple, Marcus Thornton and Terry Martin Jr.

'I think I can come in and help them a lot if I work hard', Reese said. 'I hit it off real well with some of the guys Ill be playing with next year and Im real anxious to see what I can do at that level. Im looking forward to being part of a program where I can do something special'.

If Reese follows the same path he has followed so far in college, LSU fans can expect something special.

In his freshman season at GCCC, Reese led the Commodores with 16.7 points a game, grabbed 4.1 rebounds a contest and contributed 25 blocked shots and 36 steals. He shot 41.4 percent from the floor (173-418) and 33.5 percent from 3-point range (63-188).

A native of Laurel Hill, Fla., a small town in the Florida Panhandle near the Alabama-Florida border, Reese wasnt highly recruited out of a Class A high school where he averaged 28 points a game as a senior. He spent a year at Southeastern Louisiana before transferring to Gulf Coast.

His big freshman season and strong showing this summer at the Mullens Top 120 Elite Camp, a premier event for junior college players, drew attention from a handful of other SEC schools, as well as Oklahoma State and Texas Tech.

Reese took official visits to LSU, Alabama and Texas Tech before narrowing his decision to the Tigers and Red Raiders.

Johnson dropped in on Reese last week and sealed the deal.
Hes a big part of the reason Im coming there, Reese said. He shoots straight and I know hell make me a better player.

LSU is also heavily involved with shooting guard Aaron Dotson (6-4, 200) from Seattle and small forward Eddie Ludwig (6-7, 195) from Metairie Park Country Day.

Both came to LSU for official visits for the North Texas football game, and both are expected to make a decision before the November early signing period.

Courtesy of http://www.2theadvocate.com

Bowling Green names Louis Twigg assistant coach - by Eurobasket News
Bowling Green State University head men's basketball coach Louis Orr has announced the hiring of Louis Twigg as an assistant coach. Twigg began his duties with the Falcons on Monday (Sept. 29).

Twigg, a native of Snow Hill, Md., comes to BGSU after spending a year as an assistant coach at Bloomsburg (Pa.) University. He also has more than seven years of Division I experience.

'I am excited about joining the Bowling Green program,' said Twigg. 'I look forward to working with Coach Orr, the rest of the staff and the student-athletes as we look to return to the top of the Mid-American Conference.'

Prior to joining the Huskies, Twigg served as an administrative assistant at Indiana University during the 2005-06 season, working under head coach Mike Davis. At IU, Twigg oversaw all the editing for game and practice video, as well as game tape exchange. He also coordinated all aspects of the summer camp program, official and unofficial visits by recruits and assisting with NCAA and Big Ten compliance among other duties.

'Louis brings a wealth of experience and versatility to our program,' said Orr. 'He has worked for some great programs and some great coaches. Louis has a strong administrative background, and also did a great job at Bloomsburg in terms of recruiting and coaching.

'Louis will be as effective behind the scenes as he will on the bench, and that's what we were looking for in this position. He has a hunger for the game, and is still growing as a coach. He is a nice addition to our staff.'

Before heading to IU, Twigg served as the Director of Basketball Operations at La Salle University from 2003-05. Twigg coordinated all aspects of the Explorers' travel, and also assisted with scheduling film exchange.

Twigg maintained the same job and duties for one season at the College of Charleston before heading to La Salle. While at Charleston, he was a part of a team that finished with a 25-8 overall record.

Twigg also spent two seasons at Temple University, working under legendary head coach John Chaney. While with the Owls, Twigg served as the video coordinator and undergraduate assistant coach, while also earning his degree. His responsibilities included scouting opponents, charting stats during games and coordinating film exchange. During his first season, Temple advanced to the Elite Eight in the 2001 NCAA Championships.

Additionally, Twigg was the head manager for the University of Maryland from 1997-99. While with the Terrapins, he assisted head coach Gary Williams with basketball camps, as well as with other day-to-day operations.

Twigg earned his bachelor's degree in Sport and Recreation from Temple University in 2002. He is married to the former Tara Greene, and the couple has three children; daughters Sophia (4) and Talia (1) and son Micah, born in August.

Courtesy of www.bgsufalcons.com

*****************************************************
  PARAGUAY   


Sol defeats San Jose - by Gianni Pascucci
Sol de America triumphed 94-88 in Game 1 of the addditional series to Quadrangolar. Marcus Watts (204-F/C-83, college: Florida Gulf Coast) was the game top scorer at 23 points for San Jose and Bruno Zanotti (197-F-82, agency: Megasport, college: Merrimack) added 14 pts, but it wasn' t enough. Peter Kiganya (197-F-72, college: Abil.Christian), Renzo Ferrari (191-G/F-84) and Jamal Nichols (206-F-83, college: De Paul) scored 21, 20 and 19 points, respectively, to lead Sol de America to the win. Game 2 will be played tonight

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


No PBL season for the Railers - by Gianni Pascucci
The Premier Basketball League announced that the Reading Railers will not participate in the upcoming PBL season. The Railers will continue marketing efforts while working with the Sovereign Center for their planned return for the 2010 PBL season. While we are disappointed for the basketball fans in Reading, the league is first and foremost concerned about making sure our teams are both financially sound and have venue dates that optimally give the organization the best chance for success. stated Premier Basketball League President and Chief Executive Officer Tom Doyle . We have to know our teams are 100% ready to go in the off-season. This ensures that the product provided across all our markets is consistent with the mandatory standards which we require at the league level. Reading Railers co-owner Jim Stec commented, We came to the conclusion with the league that the Railer organization was not where we needed to be in order to move forward with the 2009 season. It is our intent to continue to market the team to our fans in Reading, work with the Sovereign center to secure optimal dates and look forward to a successful return in 2010.

Yul Michel joins the Kebs - by Gianni Pascucci
The Quebec Kebs of the Premier Basketball League are proud to announce to signing of Canadian guard Yul Michel (6'2''-G-80, agency: Huss Sport Agency), a graduate of Brandon University in 2008. The lightning quick guard was widely recognized as one of the best playmakers in the country at the collegiate level. Yuls addition will add tremendous depth to our backcourt, as we probably overloaded starting PG Dominique Soucy (6'3''-G-81) with too many minutes last year. With the return of Dominique while adding Yul, we now have two great floor leaders to run our system next year said Kebs Head Coach and Director of Basketball Operations Charles Dube-Brais . While Yul is a jet who excels in the open court and is great at setting up teammates, Dominique is a great quarterback in the half court, so we feel like they complement each other very well. We will also have the luxury of moving Dominique to the 2-guard spot at times, where he is a very effective scorer and shooter. The Quebec Kebs will complete their roster in the next few weeks and will open up training camp on November 15 in Quebec City, QC. After establishing themselves as one of the top minor league organisations in the Northeast, they look to be very competitive this season in the PBL.

*****************************************************
  POLAND   


Asseco Prokom Sopot lands veteran Pat Burke - by Eurobasket News
Reining Polish champion Asseco Prokom Sopot announced signing of Irish big guy Pat Burke (208-C-73, college: Auburn). 34-year old veteran started last season in Golden State Warriors but he left before the beginning of NBA league. In November he joined Khimky Moscow Region helping it to reach the play-off final in Russian Superleague. He appeared 11 times in domestic championship averaging 7.7 ppg and 3.7 rpg. Burke also had 11 appearances in ULEB Cup recording 3.8 ppg and 2.5 rpg. This year Khimky captured the Russian National Cup. Season 06/07 Pat Burke spent in Phoenix Suns. He played 23 games for the Suns in NBA regular season adding 2.6 ppg and 2 rpg. His digits fell down in 2 play-off games. Before the Suns, Burke used to play for Real Madrid, Gran Canaria, Tau Ceramica, Maroussi and Panathinaikos. He also had 62 NBA appearances in jersey of Orlando Magic on season 02/03 adding 4.3 ppg and 2.4 rpg. Irish veteran has three championship titles of Greece, all with Panathinaikos Athens. In 2000 Greek powerhouse also was Euroleague champion. Five years later Pat Burke celebrated in ACB league with Real Madrid.

As a reminder, during the summer Asseco Prokom Sopot already agreed terms with Koko Archibong, Daniel Ewing, Aleksej Nesovic, David Logan and Ronnie Burrell.

The action heats up in Polish DBE - by Eurobasket News
The DBE enjoyed seven games of the second round yesterday. Five teams posted their second straight wins at the start and remained at helm in the ladder.
Kotwica celebrated their second victory in a row beating Gornik 83:73 on the road. Kotwica got to a slow start and trailed by 4 points at halftime. But a strong performance in the third frame allowed the visitors to surge back in front and they sealed the victory in the fourth quarter. Julien Mills (193-G-85, agency: Warren Sports International, college: Ball St.) nailed game-high 29 points to lead the action. Hamilton added 11 points, while Cielebak had 10 for the winners. Adam Waczynski (198-F-89) and Ousmane Barro (208-F-84, college: Marquette) answered with 13 points apiece for Victoria Gornik.
Polpharma was also victorious on the road as they thumped Slask 99:77. The visiting side dominated the game right from the start and never allowed the hosts to endanger the lead. Michael Hicks (193-G-83, agency: Hart Sports Mngm, college: Cent.Missouri St.) paced well-balanced offense with 22 points. Sulowski and Coleman had 17 points apiece in the win. Oliver Stevic (204-F/C-84) netted 20 points for Slask. Diduszko secured 14 points as the hosts fell to 0-2 record.
Atlas Stal outgunned Koszalin 83:74 to keep their record spotless. Krzysztof Szubarga (182-G-84, agency: AB Agency) knocked down 17 points to lead the charge. Rivera added 16 points, while Okafor finished with 15 for Atlas Stal. Javier Mojica (190-G-84, college: Cent.Conn.St.) and Bradford had 21 points each in the loss.
Turow held off PBG Basket 70:64 in Poznan. The visitors built a 12-point cushion at the interval and prevailed at the end. Bryan Bailey (185-G-80, college: Bucknell) netted 11 points for Turow. Copeland and Miljkovic contributed 9 points each in the win. Wojciech Szawarski (195-F-76) replied with 15 points for the Poznan outfit.
Energa Czarni also drove to the road victory. They overcame BPS Basket 86:73. Jason Straight (188-G-83, agency: Edge Sports, college: Wyoming) poured in 29 points for the winners. Jack Ingram (207-C/F-83, college: Illinois) was helpful with 18 points. Vladimir Tica (208-C/F-81, agency: Beo Basket) responded with 15 points for BPS Basket.

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


Danny Santiago signs with Regal FC Barcelona - by Luis Ramirez

According to BSN news, center Daniel Santiago (216-C-76, agency: Priority Sports, college: N.Mexico) has signed a one year contract with Regal FC Barcelona in the Spanish League. The contract is said to be for one year and the team will finalize the contract once Santiago has gone thru a medical exam. Back in 2005, Santiago had an average of 8.72 ppg and 3.34 rpg. in a total of 29 games played for Unicaja Malaga. Santiago recently participated with the P.R. National Team in preolympic games this past summer. In other BSN news, Filiberto Rivera scored a total of 21 points and had 5 rebounds with 3 assists when his team Brose BAskets lost against BG74 Gottingen 71-69. In other news, BSN informs that Coach Manolo Cintron will coach Halcones Rojos of Veracruz in Mexico. Currently Halcones holds a 3-5 mark in the current tournament.


Courtesy of BSN



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


Triumph lands Aleksander Miloserdov - by Eurobasket News
Triumph Lyubertsy announced signing of shooting guard / small forward Aleksander Miloserdov (196-G-80). 28-year old player spent last season in Universitet-Yugra Surgut averaging 14.8 ppg, 1.9 rpg and 2.6 apg for 22 Superleague games. A season before, Miloserdov played for UNICS Kazan but most of the time in its second team, which competed in B Superleague. Miloserdov also was a member of UNICS from 2003 to 2005. During the summer 2005 he agreed terms with Dynamo Moscow but very soon moved to Lokomotiv Rostov na Donu. Except of the above mentioned teams, Aleksander Miloserdov also played for Slask Wroclaw, Skipper Bologna, Antibes, Reggio Emilia, Avtodoroznik Saratov and junior team of CSKA Moscow. In the past he was a member of Russian U18 National Team. Interesting is that his father Valeri won the Bronze with Russia on the Olympic Games in 1976.

Aleksander Bashminov (213-C-78) is the new captain of Ural Great. Experienced center spent previous three seasons with the team from Perm. He also was member of Ural from 1999-2002 meaning that 08/09 will be his seventh one. In the meantime, Bashminov played for CSKA, PAOK and Samara. He won three titles in Russian Superleague, all with CSKA Moscow. He was member of Russian National Team from 1999-2004.

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


FMP waits Crvena Zvezda very motivated - by Dragan Jankovski
In the first round of Adriatic league we will have opportunity to watch the first Serbian derby this season. FMP Zeleznik will host Crvena Zvezda on Saturday at 16h. FMP has the youngest team over the past few years. Some of the best players left while only Nikola Ilic (207-C/F-85) arrived during the summer. According to its president Nebojsa Covic, the goals will be the same. Actually Covic stated he expects even better results.
It is not a secret that Nebojsa Covic wanted to enter in Crvena Zvezda this summer as the new president - chairman. After almost a month since that negotiations started, Zvezda changed the direction on the other side. That is another reason why Saturday's game will be exciting one.

All other Serbian teams will also play their games on Saturday. Reining Serbian and Adriatic league champion Partizan Igokea will most probably have an easy job against Krka Novo Mesto in 'Pionir'. Very interesting game will be the one between Hemofarm STADA and Cibona in Vrsac. Croatian team yesterday announced signing of one of the best Hemofarm's players from the last season Rawle Marshall (201-G-82, college: Oakland). Vojvodina Srbijagas, which succeeded to create decent team for the new season, will play on the road against Zagreb. Vojvodina faced with big troubles during the summer but at the end its management succeeded to get over it.

A1 league: Summary of the opening round - by Dragan Jankovski
Serbian A1 league officially started last night.

As it was expected Swisslions Takovo registered easy home victory against Sloga Kraljevo 80-57. At the half time the team from Vrsac already resolved question about the winner as it created plus 20. Radovan Markovic (192-G-82) was the best player in the winning team collecting 16 points for 23 minutes. Sloga got 14 points from Nemanja Dasic (191-G-86).

Masinac made a surprise in Kraljevo beating Mega Hypo Leasing 95-89. Last quarter was the crucial one in this game as Masinac ended it 35-25. Big guy Uros Mirkovic (205-F/C-82, agency: Beo Basket) reached wonderful index value 47 in this game. He spent 33 minutes on the court collecting 31 points and 14 rebounds. Aleksandar Radulovic (190-G-88) also was good for the winners adding 19 points and 5 assists. Young prospect Dusan Katnic (193-G-89) netted 20 points for 20 minutes in Mega HL while Stefan Stojacic (195-G-89) and Aleksandar Mitrovic (201-G-90) had 14 points each.

Radnicki 034 Group grabbed road victory against Novi Sad 77-71 mostly owing to Rajko Kljajevic (204-F-85, agency: Interperformances), who had 20 points and 6 rebounds, and Uros Duvnjak (190-G-86), who helped his team with 17 points.

Ergonom took it at against newcomer Tamis Petrohemija 90-85. New face in Ergonom Slavisa Bogavac (200-G-80) was the key player in his team scoring 27 points and catching 5 boards. Dejan Djokic (198-F-80) netted 22 points in Tamis.

Napredak Rubin smashed Vizura 88-65 at home. As it was the entire last season, veteran Dragan Markovic (202-F-74, agency: Beo Basket) was the leading player of Napredak with 21 points and 4 rebounds. Stefan Sinovec (195-G-88) also had 21 points but in Vizura.

Borac Cacak was better than Radnicki Invest Inzenjering 88-79 mostly owing to well played second frame 28-16. Rastko Dramicanin (207-C-86) shined in Borac adding 17 points and 7 boards while Nenad Stefanovic (193-G-85, agency: Interperformances) also was good collecting 16 points and 8 assists. Experienced Zlatko Bolic (195-G-74, agency: Beo Basket) top-scored for the loosing side with 23 points.

Last game of the opening round between Metalac Valjevo and Zdravlje Actavis will be played on October 8th.

*****************************************************
  SINGAPORE   


The Singapore Slingers register win over Purefoods - by Eurobasket News
The Singapore Slingers earned the third straight win in the Basketball Challenge. Yesterday they held off Philippines powerhouse Purefoods TJ Giants 92:84 in front of more than 6000 spectators. Darren Ng (189-G-83) was pivotal for the hosts with 23 points. He also accounted for key free throws in a tense game ending to seal the victory. The Slingers opened the game aggressively in offense pouring in 5 three-pointers. The hosts maintained the pressure and built a 29:20 lead at the first intermission. Darren Ng and Janev Blagoj (203-F-84, college: New Hampshire) teamed up for 15 points in the quarter. The visitors tightened their defense in the second frame and trimmed the deficit a bit. Darren Ng was closely marked but the Slingers found some more options. Christopher Daniel (197-G/F-85) and Al Vergara (173-G-79) both unloaded from beyond the arc for the home team to enjoy a 47:34 lead at halftime. Kerby Raymundo (199-C-81) stepped up for the visitors in the third frame as his 10 points ignited a 16:11 rally from Purefoods. Fitzgerald John (193-G-84, college: Lindsey Wilson) however answered with 7 points of his own and Singapore piled up a 70:52 advantage. James Yap fueled another comeback run from Purefoods as they shaved the distance to 4 points in the fourth quarter. Darren Ng was deadly from free throw line and the Slingers came away with a difficult victory. Al Vergara knocked down 12 points for the winners. Christopher Daniel had 10 points for the hosts.
The Singapore Slingers will next take on the NBL Sydney Spirit. The game is scheduled for October 5.

*****************************************************
  SLOVENIA   


Sentjur inks Brown - by Zeljko Zule
Sentjur Alpos inked American Takais Brown (203-F-86, college: SE Illinois JC) ex Topan Pojat. Last season he averaged 18,1 points and 6,7 rebounds in Finnish League.
.

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


Dolphins starts out in BBL with one loss and one win. - by Frankie Afzelius


Win and loss for Norrkoping Dolphins in Baltic League - by Eurobasket News
The Baltic League newcomers Norrkoping Dolphins tasted the action in the Challenge Cup. They opened their campaign in the league with a narrow loss to VEF Riga 90:93. The Swedish team got to a brave start as they built a 28:23 lead after ten minutes of action. VEF Riga struggled to adjust their game and the visitors enjoyed a 5-point cushion at the big break. The situation hardly changed in the third frame as the Dolphins even extended the margin to 6 points before the final period. However the hosts used a 13:0 rally midway through the frame to turn a 5-point deficit into an 8-point advantage. Gee Gervin (189-G-76, college: Houston) later cut the distance to 3 points but Edgars Jeromanovs (186-G-86) and Aleksejevs secured the victory for VEF Riga at the end. Maris Gulbis (203-F-85, agency: Interperformances) provided 22 points to pace the winners. Gee Gervin answered with game-high 29 points and 6 assists for the Dolphins. Joakim Kjellbom (213-C/F-79, agency: R.H.Consultancy, college: N.Arizona) provided 17 points in the loss.
The Dolphins rebounded in the second game. They thumped Estonian Valga Welg 74:60 to post the initial victory in the competition. The Swedish team accumulated a 15-point cushion at halftime and it was never endangered in the second half. Joe McNaull (208-C-72, agency: SportsTalent, college: Long Beach St.) provided 16 points for Norrkoping. Gee Gervin produced 14 points, while Joakim Kjellbom added 12 points and 9 rebounds for the winning side. Roos replied with 16 points for Valga Welg. Norrkoping will next host Alytus on October 15.

Plannja Basket earn win in Basketligan opener - by Eurobasket News
Plannja Basket - Jamtland 67:65

Plannja opened the season with a hard-fought victory over visiting Jamtland yesterday. Jamtland got to a better start to the game as they enjoyed an 8:3 lead early on. They maintained the lead throughout the first quarter and Odada made it 24:19 for Jamtland at the end. The hosts however opened the second period with an 8:2 rally to take the lead. The teams traded baskets then and Jamtland managed to retain the advantage late in the second frame. They secured a 35:32 cushion at the interval. The sides continued to trade the buckets with neither of them able to clear off. Larsson knocked down a three-pointer at the end of the third quarter and Plannja entered the fourth stanza ahead by one 49:48. Tyrone Levett (195-G/F-80, college: Alabama St.) tipped off the fourth term with 4 straight points to give Jamtland another lead. It all came down to the final seconds in the game. Stefan Hellgren (186-G-86) put the visitors up by 3 points 63:60 with under 2 minutes remaining. Erik Vestin (199-F-86) and Tony Bethel (188-G-82, college: N.Carolina St.) replied with four freebies to turn things around and gave the home team a 64:63 lead with 54 seconds left. Rosendahl extended the margin to 3 points with 15 seconds on the clock. Stefan Hellgren buried both free throws to cut the distance to minimal but Tony Bethel got fouled and sealed the winning outcome for Plannja from the stripe.
Tony Bethel finished the game with 16 points. Jim Enbom (195-F-76) topscored for Plannja with 17 points, while Erik Vestin had 12 points and 11 boards. Tyrone Levett answered with game-high 21 points for Jamtland. Andrew Mitchell (180-G-79, college: Kent St.) secured 19 points in defeat.

Plannja: Jim Enbom 17, Tony Bethel 16, Erik Vestin 12+11 boards
Jamtland: Tyrone Levett 21, Andrew Mitchell 19

*****************************************************
  TURKEY   


Selcuk signed Ibekwe - by Sinan Can
Mutlu Aku Selcuk Universitesi announced the signing of Ekene Ibekwe (206-F-85, agency: Octagon, college: Maryland). Nigerian player who has graduated from Maryland has spent some time in Israel, Puerto Rico and Franech Pro B last year. Young center has played 11 games for Galil Gilboa of Israel but sent back to home after 11 games. Selcuk officials quoted that, they've completed the roster with Ibekwe's arrival as they expect the Nigarian player to help the team with his athletic abilites, rebounding and shot blocking.

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


Ukrainian championship to have 2 Leagues in 2008/2009 season - by Eurobasket News
The Ukrainian Basketball Federation got into a deep conflict with several teams. So BC Odessa, Goverla, Budivelnik, Cherkassy, Dnipro, Kryvbasbasket, Gryfony, DniproAZOT, Pol. Lviv and Ferro-ZNTU decided to create their own league. There will be two separate leagues in Ukraine this season. One is under FBU and will remain under the name of Superleague. Another one (which is not really recognized by any European basketball structures) is called Ukrainian Basketball League.
Superleague teams are - BC Kiev, Azovmash, Poltava, BC Donetsk, Mykolaiv, Sumykhimprom, Khimik and Pulsar. UBL teams are - BC Odessa, Goverla, Budivelnik, Cherkassy, Dnipro, Kryvbasbasket, Gryfony, DniproAZOT, Pol. Lviv and Ferro-ZNTU.
All the teams had great preparations in the pre-season tournaments. Many of them went abroad for the International tournaments, while some were managed to invite the teams to their native places. Azovmash won the home tournament Azovmash-2008, Pulsar became the winner of the international tournament in Rovno, Khimki hosted a great campaign at home and Sumykhimprom invited the teams to Sumy. Mykolaiv, Kryvbasbasket, Budivelnik, BC Odessa, Pol. Lviv, BC Donetsk and BC Kiev enjoyed to travel and to get the experience away from home.
The Superleague starts on October 4th with 4 games in the day. UBL will also have 4 games but the day earlier, October 3rd.


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


Ford Role Confirmed By Riders - by Andy Webb
Martin Ford , head coach of the Jelson Homes DMU Leicester Riders last season, has agreed a key basketball consultancy role with the club, as they look to further expand their basketball development work and underage programmes.

Ford, who has taken on the role of Head Coach of the Loughborough University mens team and is also the Head Coach of English Students basketball, will support the club in a number of areas, particularly related to the governing body and junior development.

Riders Chairman Mark Ellis said, We were keen to keep Martin involved and believe his experience and contacts will be invaluable to the club going forward. He will be available to advise us on coaching developments, how best to develop our junior programme and the other longer term developments in the sport. These are areas we want to devote greater resources to and Martins advice and ideas on the best way forward will be invaluable to the club. And, of course, he can help us spot the best young talent coming through the system from his work with the Students.

Ellis also indicated the Clubs satisfaction with general progress in the off season, Overall the Board is pleased with the progress made in the off season we were determined to ensure that player recruitment was timely and looking at performance at the weekend, we see lots of potential. In addition, after the successful camps and tournaments throughout the summer and the start of the new Burleigh Basketball Academy, we are pleased with the off court progress, with the opportunities for Leicestershire youngsters to play basketball continuing to expand very significantly.

Martin Ford said, As I discussed with the club in May, I really enjoyed my time with the Riders, and was very keen to provide ongoing support to the club. My new role is one I am particularly interested in and look forward to helping develop Riders into one of the top basketball programmes in the country.

Big Saturday In the BBL - by Andy Webb
Theres plenty of action in the BBL on Saturday evening, with ten teams in Championship action.

Two sides who are familiar with each other meet at the Spectrum where Guildford Heat hosts Marshall MK Lions.

The teams have already met twice this season in the BBL Cup Winners Cup, with Heat winning both legs. Saturdays game is a repeat of the Championship final, which saw Heat become the first team to score 100 in the final as they ran out 100-88 victors.

Despite those losses, Lions coach Vince Macaulay doesnt see the game as a chance for revenge: Last year has nothing to do with this year so we are not exacting revenge for anything that might have happened then. The Cup Winners Cup was a pre-season tournament that really is designed to get teams ready for the season. As far as I'm concerned this is the first meaningful game between us, it will be a tough encounter and I expect the Heat to be there or thereabouts.

Meanwhile, new Jelson Homes DMU Leicester Riders coach Rob Paternostro (180-G-73, college: S.New Hampshire) is expecting a tough test when his side host BiG Storage Cheshire Jets at the John Sandford Sports Centre on Saturday evening.

Paternostro watched the Jets demolish Worcester 135-103 on Sunday, and was impressed with what he saw: The Jets are a deep team and I thought that their guards played really well against Wolves. I thought Alto Virgil did a nice job of pushing the basketball, and Chez Marks scored in many different ways. When you add Shawn Myers, James Hamilton and Calvin Davis, you have three guys who know how to get it done in this league.

Worcester Wolves coach Skouson Harker is hoping that he will have a full squad to choose from them when they host Scottish Rocks: They have good overall size and Rob Yanders will lead from the point as always. We expect a very competitive encounter, and hopefully well be at full strength this week.

Worthing Thunder coach Gary Smith is aware that his side will face another difficult evening when they host the league champions Newcastle Eagles: Newcastle will be difficult to break down, they can almost put two fives on the floor that would be competitive in this league. The likes of Fab Flournoy, Lynard Stewart and Charles Smith have been stars in this league for some time, and then they just add Dru Sullivan on the eve of the season. He is a great pickup and it is great for British basketball that he is back in the BBL, I just wish he wasn't playing against us!

Elsewhere, PAWS London Capital will be looking for their first ever home victory against Airwaves Plymouth Raiders when the pair meet at Capital City Academy.

Chicago Bulls re-sign Ben Gordon to a qualifying offer - by Eurobasket News
Chicago Bulls announced that guard Ben Gordon (6'2''-G-83, college: Connecticut) accepted one-year qualifying offer worth $6.4 million. It means that after this season Gordon will become an unrestricted free agent. There was a lot of speculations this summer about Gordon and his possible departure overseas but at the end it didn't happen.
Gordon has wonderful four seasons behind him with the Bulls. At the last one he had 72 NBA appearances averaging 18.6 ppg, 3.1 rpg and 3 apg. Season 06/07 was even better for Gordon as his average digits in 82 regular season games were 21.4 ppg, 3.1 rpg ad 3.6 apg. For 6 play-off games his numbers were little bit lower 20.4 ppg, 3.8 rpg and 3.8 apg. Gordon was third pick on 2004 NBA Draft selected by the Bulls. He left Connecticut after three years with 18.5 ppg, 4.7 rpg and 4.5 apg in 03/04. He led it to NCAA title at the same year. Gordon entered into the NBA mix in style getting the award 'NBA All-Star Game All-Rookies Team -05'.

Meanwhile, Sacramento Kings named Shareef Abdur-Rahim (6'10''-F-76, college: California) assistant coach. NBA veteran retired this year as a professional player after he had 1.7 ppg and 1.7 rpg for 6 NBA games with the Kings in 07/08. Abdur-Rahim had 12 NBA pro years behind him as a member of Sacramento, Portland, Atlanta and Vancouver. He was member of USA Dream Team on the Olympic Games in Sydney in 2000.

*****************************************************
  VENEZUELA   


Guaros owner: "Diego Guevara is not in the market" - by Francisco Vega
Barquisimeto, Venezuela.- The owner and president of Guaros de Lara, Carlos Garcia, cleared the air on the status of guard Diego Guevara (184-G-77), as he declared in a phone conversation with Diario EL IMPULSO of Barquisimeto, that 'the player is not in the market' and that teams should address 'the team first' and not attempt to contact the player or his agent.

Garcia declares this as a response to informations coming from the whole country which announce the interest of teams such as Marinos de Anzoategui, Cocodrilos de Caracas, Gaiteros del Zulia and even Gigantes de Guayana to add Guevara to their rosters.

Marinos was the first team, as they were mentioned by Guevara's agent, Carlos Sifuentes, as the team with intentions to travel to Colombia, where Guevara plays as an imported player for Arrieros de Antioquia in Copa Invitacional, to have a conversation with him regarding his intentions of playing in Venezuela in 2009. Then, a source that asked to be kept anonymous, confirmed to EL IMPULSO that Cocodrilos was preparing an offer for Guevara that they would show directly to Garcia in the upcoming LPB Owners Meeting, to be held in Margarita next October, 17th. Later on, Gaiteros del Zulia revealed their interest of also making a trip to Colombia to fellow Latinbasket.com's writer, Wolfgang Lucena.

'The only team that has sat down with me to make offers has been Gigantes de Guayana. They asked for Guevara and I told him he's not in the market but they also made some other offers that I'll keep in mind. For now, there's nothing planned regarding transactions', said Garcia.

Garcia said he spoke with Guevara a couple of weeks ago through Internet. 'I told him I would visit him to discuss his participation in LPB 2009 with us. Only if he told me that he's uncomfortable and doesn't want to continue playing in Barquisimeto, I would start considering the possibility of a trade, but for now, it hasn't been like that at all'. He went even further. 'I want to know what his plans are. I would have loved to talk to him back when he spent a few days in Barquisimeto (playing for Duros de Lara in LNB) but back then I wasn't in the country to start the negotiations'.

Garcia said he would complain with a written document about the attitude of some of the teams at the next LPB Owners Meeting. He also said that the first option to continue as head coach is Puerto Rican Tony Ruiz, but he's got some other names that he's currently studying. He also said he's going to have a meeting with a known basketball figure who could become the team's next general manager and would handle the roster, imported players and other signings. 'There will be significant changes in our roster for next season', he warned.

League changes
Garcia said that he received an official letter from Deportivo Tachira's general management in which they request to move from the city of San Cristobal to Vargas state, starting next season. 'In their case, that's going to create a big debate in the Meetings, because they're complaining about lack of fans support. I also had to deal with that back in 2003 and 2004 when Guaros was a new team but I kept going ahead. They can't expect to gain fans in only one year of experience. I don't think I'm going to support their request and I don't know if it will be approved, cause that's got to be unanimous'.

However, he thinks Gatos de Monagas will be able to move back from Maturin to Maracay and could regain the old name they had till 2004, Toros de Aragua. 'That's a whole different situation, cause what we approved back in 2004 was a temporary move to Maturin, not a definitive move. Maracay has always been their natural home so all they have to do is officially request their come back to Aragua and we would grant it'. Garcia said he had heard about significant improvements in Panteras de Miranda's finantial situation (the team is in the process of being sold), but that all advances will be shown directly in the Owners Meetings.

Which ball is heavier? - by Carlos Santander
A bunch of kids from South America that played in the last U15 South American Basketball Championship are wondering about the future of their efforts and hopes on this championship. All of those young players normally dream with a small medal or trophy as pay of their hard work... No matter what, Carmelo Cortez (CONSUBASKET) and Alberto Garcia (FIBA Americas) are still arguing one from each other to find out who is right or who was wrong about which ball, between MOLTEN or GOLTY was suppose to be used for this tournament.
As everybody in Venezuela knows, GOLTY is the official ball for the Venezuela's Professional Basketball league (LPB). Curiously this year, Carmelo Cortez named to Rolando Urdaneta (president of the LPB) as general manager of the last seniors Venezuela National Team.
So far, Alberto Garcia said that FIBA America keep the same the position about the penalty against CONSUBASKET while Carmelo Cortez, now can count with the support of the LPB's president on regard of this topic.

Zamora and Roman unlucky in Spain, Cox wins in France - by Francisco Vega
Barquisimeto, Venezuela.- Venezuelans Jhornan Zamora (194-F-89) and Javier Roman (207-F/C-80) were unlucky in their latest games, as both their teams lost against their respective opponents. Zamora and his team, Zarzuela Maristas Boecillo, lost against Ventanas Arsan Estela, 87-78, in EBA 1 action, while Roman and his Leche Rio Breogan Lugo lost against UB La Palma, 85-68, in LEB Gold, second division basketball in Spain.

Zamora scored 12 points, grabbed 5 rebounds, gave 4 assists and stole a ball in 31 minutes as a starter. Boecillo's parent team is CB Valladolid. Meanwhile, Roman came off the bench to support Lugo with 5 points, one assists and one steal in 14 minutes.

In France, American-Venezuelan John Cox (196-G-81) scored 19 points and added 6 assists in a match in which his team, Sluc Nancy, defeated Lyon Villeurbane, 88-70, in preparation for the 2008-2009 season of ProA, first division basketball in this country.

Carlos Morris will play decisive series in Paraguay - by Francisco Vega
Barquisimeto, Venezuela.- Venezuelan shooting guard Carlos Morris (194-G-75) was one of the reasons why Deportivo San Jose was able to defeat Sol de America to earn second place in the Top5 league in Paraguay, so now both teams will play a three-game series to define the second finalist in the first division basketball of this country. The winner will face Libertad.

Morris had netted 20 points in a comfortable triumph over Universidad Autonoma de Asuncion, 113-76, and he followed that with an 8-point performance against Sol de America in an extra time victory, 97-95. He got help from Marcus Watts (204-F/C-83) with 27 points, Gustavo Torres (175-G-80) with 26 points and Roberto Laratro (198-C-82) and Bruno Zanotti (197-F-82) with 11 points each. Sol de America's top scorers were Jamal Nichols (206-F-83) with 30 points, Peter Kiganya (197-F-72) with 20, Renzo Ferrari (191-G/F-84) with 18 and Guillermo Araujo (204-C-82) with 12.

Victor David Diaz to Estudiantes, transactions raise LNB's media attention - by Francisco Vega

Barquisimeto, Venezuela.- Venezuelan shooting guard and small forward Victor David Diaz (195-F-68) decided to stay in his native country instead of trying out in a foreign league, as he reached an agreement to play the remainder of Liga Nacional de Baloncesto's regular season for Estudiantes de Guarico.

Diaz, a former LNB and South American Clubs Championship winner several times with Delfines de Miranda, a franchise that decided not to play in the league this year. That left Diaz without a team, but no team picked him up in the league draft, unsure of his intentions to play. Diaz won the LPB 2008 championship title with Cocodrilos de Caracas.

Other teams are also performing transactions to become league contenders. In the past few days, Centauros de Cojedes took a chance with power forward Luis Bethelmy (200-C-86), who had to return to the country due to the upcoming birth of his son and needed to be near his wife. Centauros de Apure signed Rafael Perez (185-G-82) and Ludwing Irazabal (201-C/F-73) and is reportedly close to reaching an agreement with international center Richard Lugo (209-C-73). Tiburones de Vargas added Roque Osorio (206-C-76), Rafael Guevara (194-F-79) and Juan Manaure (188-G-79) to their roster.


Duros de Lara, who had added Kevin Palacios (203-F/C-84) after the player spent vacations in the United States, where he resides, is still waiting for Diego Guevara (184-G-77) to return from Colombia. The team decided to release American center Tim Parham (206-F-83) and is currently expecting the arrival of a new imported player, a small forward who has played before in LPB but that general manager Armando Becker said he won't reveal his name until he's made his way into Barquisimeto.





*****************************************************

Women News

*****************************************************
  BULGARIA - Women  


Dunav Ekont wins tournament 'Ruscuk' - by Eurobasket News
Dunav Ekont is the winner of the second tournament 'Ruscuk'. At the last day of the tourney reining Bulgarian champion blasted Slavia 93-60. As a reminder, in the first game Dunav was better than Beroe 07.
The host team took control on its opponent from the very beginning. After opening ten minutes the score was 25-18. Dunav had Nataliya Topalova (187-F-80) in excellent game mood and mostly owing to her Bulgarian champion grabbed 12-point lead at the half time. Slavia suffered real fiasco after the breather. Its players struggle a lot at the offensive end which resulted with only 9 points for ten minutes. On the other side Nataliya Topalova was on fire and together with Anna Rimpova (183-F-82) led her team to plus 26 before the last frame. Those last ten minutes were just a formality as winner of 'Ruscuk' tournament was already known.
Nataliya Topalova was the best player of this game draining 25 points. Anna Rimpova also shined for the winning team adding 20 points. Daniela Peteva (179-F-89) helped her team with 10. On the other side, Slavia got 16 points from Tsvetelina Nikolova (191-C-88). Stefka Nikolova (170-G-90) was behind her with 12 while Ilieva had 2 points less.

*****************************************************
  CROATIA - Women  


Cesis edges Medvescak in the opener - by Eurobasket News
Cesis-Medvescak 70:53

Latvian Cesis indicated the satisfaction with general progress in the off season. Tonight the team won the opener of the Qualifying Round of Eurocup over Medvescak in Latvia. The hosts looked great in the second half and grabbed 70:53 victory. Sandra Dijon (195-C-79) (195-C-79) top-scored for the winners with 19 points and 11 rebounds. Ieva Tare (185-F-74) posted 13 and Elina Babkina (172-G-89) added 10.
Ieva Tare made a three for the first shoot in the game to pull the hosts in front. Trailing 11:14 in the middle of the first Cesis scored seven consecutive points for 18:14 at the end of the opening quarter. Medvescak worked hard to get back into the match in the second quarter but struggled to make any real impression into the hosts advantage. A 17-15 allowed them to stay at 33:31 at the halftime.
In the third period Cesis started to increase the lead in the game. Mirna Mazic (188-F-85, college: Richmond) closed the thirty minutes of the game with 51:41 for the Latvian side. There was more of the same in the last frame as the hosts began to exert their authority. A 19-12 saw the Latvians with 70:53 at the end. The second game is scheduled for October 9th in Croatia.

Cesis: Sandra Dijon 19+11 rebs, Ieva Tare 13, Elina Babkina 10
Medvescak: Dea Klein-Sumanovac (182-G/F-81) 18, Mirna Mazic 13

*****************************************************
  CZECH REPUBLIC - Women  


USK Praha wins first, results of the first round - by Eurobasket News
ZVVZ USK Praha won the first game in the Turkish tournament defeating Fenerbahce Istanbul 82:77. The start of the game was in offensive style and both teams managed to score 55 points. As a result the guests grabbed 33:22 after the opening quarter and then added 16:14 at the halftime. Fenerbahce Istanbul tried to change the picture in the court after 30-21 in the third, but Praha stayed tough. The latter celebrated the first win and has now 1-1 record, the same as the Turkish side has.

Two more games were played in the first round of the regular season on the first day of October. BK Tabor had a home win over Sparta Praha 86:77. Even after 25:23 at the end of the opening quarter, the hosts trailed in the majority of the game. Sparta Praha enjoyed 59:61 after three quarters played but then the hosts were too good for them. Katerina Kolarova (180-G-89) led the winners with 25 points, while Veronika Novakova (181-F-87) added 19. Malgorzata Morka (182-F-81, college: Kennesaw St.), Hrabakova and Hariss ended up with 19 points each in defeat.
Valosun Brno edged Loko K. Vary 92:82. The hosts won the opening quarter 20:16 and had 46:33 at the halftime. Michaela Zrustova (183-F-87) top-scored for the winners with 22 points. Vlkova netted 19, whilst Miller posted 14. Magerciakova Magerciakova (188-C-77) finished the game with 27 points in defeat and Vetrovcova had 20.


BK Tabor - Sparta Praha 86:77 (25:23 42:43 59:61)
BK Tabor: Katerina Kolarova 25, Veronika Novakova 19
Sparta Praha: Malgorzata Morka 19, Hrabakova 19, Hariss 19


Valosun Brno - Loko K. Vary 92:82 (20:16 46:33 71:57)
Valosun Brno:Michaela Zrustova 22, Vlkova 19, Miller 14
Loko K. Vary:Magerciakova Magerciakova 27, Vetrovcova 20

*****************************************************
  ESTONIA - Women  


Spartak Noginsk make its name loud after a road win in Estonia - by Eurobasket News
BC Star -Spartak Noginsk 56:82

Spartak Noginsk opens the Qualifying Round with a confident win over BC Star in Estonia. The team from Tallinn tried hard but lost 56:82 to the new Russian representative in EuroCup. Spartak Noginsk started with 23-9 in the opening quarter and never looked behind. Colleen Miller led the winners with 20 points and 9 rebounds. Tatiana Sergeeva (198-C-82) netted 18, while Svetlana Romanova (178-G-81) scored 12. Ashley Wallace (183-C-85, college: Pace) ended up with 15 in defeat and Davineia Payne (175-G-83, college: La Salle) collected 13 points and 15 rebounds in the losing effort.
The Russian team scored first six points in the game and Milanovich made it 6:0 in the opening tip. Tsekhmeyster brought her tea to 15:5, while Khodzayan closed the first at 23:9. The advantage became even more comfortable for the guests after 21:13 in the second period. Tatiana Sergeeva with a jump shot made it 44:22.
The game was over, but the hosts still tried hard in the second half. BC Star created 21:16 to reduce to 43:60 after 30 minutes of the game. Spartak Noginsk however closed the game with 22:13 in the last period. As a result Russian team became the winner of the first leg with a comfortable 82:56 win.

BC Star: Ashley Wallace 15, Davineia Payne 13+15 rebs, Anna Rannaveski (172-G-90) 13
Spartak Noginsk: Colleen Miller 20+9 rebs, Tatiana Sergeeva 18, Svetlana Romanova 12

*****************************************************
  EUROCUP - Women  


Wednesday results and stats - by Eurobasket News

BBT Letzebuerg - Arvi Marijampole 52:86

Arvi stormed past BBT Letzebuerg in Luxembourg last night to feel more comfortable at home in the next game. Lithuanian team had a road 52:86 win with the victories in all the quarters. Tetyana Shchypakina (180-F-85) led the winners with 23 points and 15 rebounds. Ligita Kinkeviciene (173-G-76) posted 15, whilst Lyubov Alyoshkina (203-C-81, agency: LBM Management) collected 10 points and 14 rebounds. Amanda Stowe (186-F/C-79, agency: Next Level, college: Wisc.-Green Bay) resisted for the hosts with 20 points and 15 rebounds, while Ranela Skegro (187-F/C-71) netted 11.
Arvi Marijampole never trailed and took control of the game for good right in the beginning of the game. Tetyana Shchypakina made the score 4:0 and then after 7-0 run in the middle of the first the guests had 17:8. The Baltic side led 21:12 at the end of the frame and had a stranglehold on proceedings at half-time with a 46:26 advantage.
Arvi started the third period with a 8-0 run for 53:26. Petrova pulled her team a bit back as the teams finished three quarters of the game at 45:66. With 20-7 in the last period Arvi sealed the first victory in the match-up. Tetyana Shchypakina set up the Final 86:52 score at the end of the game. The teams will now travel to Lithuiania for the second game of the campaign. Arvi however can book the tickets for the next stage right now.

BBT Letzebuerg: Amanda Stowe 20+15 rebs, Ranela Skegro 11
Arvi Marijampole: Tetyana Shchypakina 23+15 rebs, Ligita Kinkeviciene 15, Lyubov Alyoshkina 10+14 rebs



CAB Madeira -Athinaikos BC 45:78

Athinaikos BC can probably book the tickets to Eurocup next stage as last night the team had a road win over CAB Madeira. After the wins in all the quarters the guests celebrated 78:45 victory. LaToya Davis (186-F/C-84, college: Texas Tech) top-scored for the winners with 23 points and 10 rebounds. Afroditi Kosma (187-F/C-83) collected 11 points and 10 rebounds, while Maria Manoli (178-G-81) posted 10. Ebony Twiggs (191-C-83, college: Cheyney) produced 15 points and 12 rebounds in defeat and Danielle Hood (185-F/C-86, agency: LBM Management, college: Hartford) collected 13 points and 11 boards.
The Greek team was 24 of 34 inside the arc and 8 of 26 from long range.By comparison, the Portuguese were only 12 of 36 from two-point range and made a mere 4 of 21 from three-point distance.
LaToya Davis rushed with her team in the first seconds of the game and it was her to score first in the game. After 7:7 the Greek side pushed the way for 15:8 at the end of the opening quarter. In the second quarter Athinaikos BC added 18:10 and had 13 points advantage entering the second half. Zerva with a lay-up sent the teams to the lockers for 33:20.
Nothing specific had changed in the last period and the visitors continued to be the leaders in the court. With 16-8 in the third frame they improved to 49:28 after three quarters and then led the game to 78:45 victory.

CAB Madeira: Ebony Twiggs 15+12 rebs, Danielle Hood 13+11 rebs
Athinaikos BC: LaToya Davis 23+10 rebs, Afroditi Kosma 11+10 rebs, Maria Manoli 10

EuroCup Women will have 58 teams altogether in 2008/2009 years. Thirty eight teams will qualify automatically for the Preliminary Round. Russia and Spain will have more than any other country representatives, 5. In the Qualifying Round 20 teams will beat for 10 spots in 12 groups created. The rest of the games are scheduled for tonight.

Qualifying Round
Universit BC Neuchatel - Seat Foton Gyr
O8 Stockholm HR - Pallacanestro Ribera 59:77
CAB Madeira - Athinaikos Basketball Club 45:78
BBT Letzebuerg - Arvi Marijampole 52:86
Flying Foxes - Gran Canaria
Sporta Klubs Cesis - Sporta Klubs Cesis
BC Star - Spartak Noginsk
Municipal Targoviste - Electra Ramat-Hasharon
CSB CST Alexandria - Crvena Zvezda
Mladi Krajisnik - AKO Aris Holargou




*****************************************************
  FINLAND - Women  


SM-SARJA: Season 2008-09 starts 4.10. - by Rauno Hurmalainen
SM-sarja (Finnish Top League) will start on Saturday, October 4. Nine (9) Teams again and last season finalists PeKa (Kotka) and Catz (Lappeenranta)
at once meeting each other. Round 1. 4.10.: PeKa - Catz, HoNsU - Huima, Espoo Team - PuHu, BC Nokia - FoA. The ninth team is newcomer Jymy (Orimattila).
Tommi Koskinen , 42, has been named The Head Coach of Women NT. Koskinen will replace Spanish Domingo Diaz. Koskinen will coach Finnish NT first
time in January 2009, when Finland is qualifying (4.1.-19.1.) and trying to stay in Division A. The opponents are: Bosnia and Herzegovina, Great Britain and Romania.
Koskinen has a long experience in coaching basketball. 20 years on top level in Finland (men or women) and three times (1995, 1996, 2007) The Coach of The Year
on women's side. Koskinen will start his fourth season as the Head Coach in Lappeenranta (Catz).

*****************************************************
  GREECE - Women  


Athinaikos BC beat CAB Madeira in the opener - by Eurobasket News
CAB Madeira -Athinaikos BC 45:78

Athinaikos BC can probably book the tickets to Eurocup next stage as last night the team had a road win over CAB Madeira. After the wins in all the quarters the guests celebrated 78:45 victory. LaToya Davis (186-F/C-84, college: Texas Tech) top-scored for the winners with 23 points and 10 rebounds. Afroditi Kosma (187-F/C-83) collected 11 points and 10 rebounds, while Maria Manoli (178-G-81) posted 10. Ebony Twiggs (191-C-83, college: Cheyney) produced 15 points and 12 rebounds in defeat and Danielle Hood (185-F/C-86, agency: LBM Management, college: Hartford) collected 13 points and 11 boards.
The Greek team was 24 of 34 inside the arc and 8 of 26 from long range.By comparison, the Portuguese were only 12 of 36 from two-point range and made a mere 4 of 21 from three-point distance.
LaToya Davis rushed with her team in the first seconds of the game and it was her to score first in the game. After 7:7 the Greek side pushed the way for 15:8 at the end of the opening quarter. In the second quarter Athinaikos BC added 18:10 and had 13 points advantage entering the second half. Zerva with a lay-up sent the teams to the lockers for 33:20.
Nothing specific had changed in the last period and the visitors continued to be the leaders in the court. With 16-8 in the third frame they improved to 49:28 after three quarters and then led the game to 78:45 victory.

CAB Madeira: Ebony Twiggs 15+12 rebs, Danielle Hood 13+11 rebs
Athinaikos BC: LaToya Davis 23+10 rebs, Afroditi Kosma 11+10 rebs, Maria Manoli 10

*****************************************************
  HUNGARY - Women  


The 2008/2009 season is open! - by Eurobasket News
Welcome to the new 2008/2009 season! Hungarian league was one of the first to start in Europe and will have 13 teams participating.
In the first round MKB-Euroleasing Sopron had a road win over SEAT FOTON Gyor 80:49 away from home. The Hungarian favorite had 23-6 from the start and then 22-8 in the second. Even though the hosts won the last frame 19-12 they did not change the picture of the game. Horti led the winners with 24 points. Edit Eordogh (180-F-75) scored 18, while Kathleen Macleod (166-G-86) netted 12. Radunovics finished the game with 12 points in the losing effort.
Another favorite MiZo Pecs 2010 won over Atomeromu KSC 79:58. Graziane Coelho (192-C-83) and Quennan produced a great night with 26 points apiece. Anna Vajda (191-F/C-84) followed them with 17 and Dalma Ivanyi (178-G-76, college: Florida Intern.) scored 5. Balint top-scored in defeat with 15 points.
In another games Szolnoki NKK overcame BEAC-Ujbuda 62:51. Cegledi EKK lost at home to BSE 58:104, while Szeviep-Szeged had a road victory over Vasas-Csata 55:76.

*****************************************************
  ISRAEL - Women  


Targoviste thrashes Electra Ramat-Hasharon - by Eurobasket News
Municipal Targoviste - Electra Ramat-Hasharon 76:47

Targoviste thrashes Electra Ramat-Hasharon at home in the opener of EuroCup Qualifying Round. A massive 28-10 in the opening quarter helped them to build up their lead. In a great team game where the top players scored only 10 points Romanian side celebrated 76:47 win. Radostina Slavova (186-F-86) and Elena Dinca (177-F-84) led the winners with 10 points. Olga Masilionene (181-F-80, agency: LBM Management) and Boriga followed them with 9 points apiece in Targoviste. Mirav Dori (178-F-86) top-scored in defeat with 12 points, while Abiola Wabara (183-F-81, college: Baylor) and Ayelet Cohen (172-G-85) added 11 each.
Valentin opened the game for the hosts that even did not expect such a start. The first quarter was a holiday of almost all scored baskets from the hosts. Municipal Targoviste provided 28-10 in the opening quarter and never looked behind after. Boriga scored first two in the second period for 31:10. Electra Ramat-Hasharon had even hard time following the tempo and rhythm and in the game. Suez Karni somehow made it 51:21 at the halftime.
In the third period the picture did not change and Municipal Targoviste was even not thinking of slowing down. Varda posted two at the end of the third for 67:32. Only in the last stanza Israeli team could show the basketball they used to play. Electra Ramat-Hasharon produced 15-9 in the final period to close the game at 76:47.

Municipal Targoviste:Radostina Slavova 10, Elena Dinca 10, Olga Masilionene 9, Boriga 9
Electra Ramat-Hasharon: Mirav Dori 12, Abiola Wabara 11, Ayelet Cohen 11

*****************************************************
  LATVIA - Women  


Cesis edges Medvescak in the opener - by Eurobasket News
Cesis-Medvescak 70:53

Latvian Cesis indicated the satisfaction with general progress in the off season. Tonight the team won the opener of the Qualifying Round of Eurocup over Medvescak in Latvia. The hosts looked great in the second half and grabbed 70:53 victory. Sandra Dijon (195-C-79) (195-C-79) top-scored for the winners with 19 points and 11 rebounds. Ieva Tare (185-F-74) posted 13 and Elina Babkina (172-G-89) added 10.
Ieva Tare made a three for the first shoot in the game to pull the hosts in front. Trailing 11:14 in the middle of the first Cesis scored seven consecutive points for 18:14 at the end of the opening quarter. Medvescak worked hard to get back into the match in the second quarter but struggled to make any real impression into the hosts advantage. A 17-15 allowed them to stay at 33:31 at the halftime.
In the third period Cesis started to increase the lead in the game. Mirna Mazic (188-F-85, college: Richmond) closed the thirty minutes of the game with 51:41 for the Latvian side. There was more of the same in the last frame as the hosts began to exert their authority. A 19-12 saw the Latvians with 70:53 at the end. The second game is scheduled for October 9th in Croatia.

Cesis: Sandra Dijon 19+11 rebs, Ieva Tare 13, Elina Babkina 10
Medvescak: Dea Klein-Sumanovac (182-G/F-81) 18, Mirna Mazic 13

*****************************************************
  LITHUANIA - Women  


Arvi stormed past BBT Letzebuerg in Luxembourg - by Eurobasket News
BBT Letzebuerg - Arvi Marijampole 52:86

Arvi stormed past BBT Letzebuerg in Luxembourg last night to feel more comfortable at home in the next game. Lithuanian team had a road 52:86 win with the victories in all the quarters. Tetyana Shchypakina (180-F-85) led the winners with 23 points and 15 rebounds. Ligita Kinkeviciene (173-G-76) posted 15, whilst Lyubov Alyoshkina (203-C-81, agency: LBM Management) collected 10 points and 14 rebounds. Amanda Stowe (186-F/C-79, agency: Next Level, college: Wisc.-Green Bay) resisted for the hosts with 20 points and 15 rebounds, while Ranela Skegro (187-F/C-71) netted 11.
Arvi Marijampole never trailed and took control of the game for good right in the beginning of the game. Tetyana Shchypakina made the score 4:0 and then after 7-0 run in the middle of the first the guests had 17:8. The Baltic side led 21:12 at the end of the frame and had a stranglehold on proceedings at half-time with a 46:26 advantage.
Arvi started the third period with a 8-0 run for 53:26. Petrova pulled her team a bit back as the teams finished three quarters of the game at 45:66. With 20-7 in the last period Arvi sealed the first victory in the match-up. Tetyana Shchypakina set up the Final 86:52 score at the end of the game. The teams will now travel to Lithuiania for the second game of the campaign. Arvi however can book the tickets for the next stage right now.

BBT Letzebuerg: Amanda Stowe 20+15 rebs, Ranela Skegro 11
Arvi Marijampole: Tetyana Shchypakina 23+15 rebs, Ligita Kinkeviciene 15, Lyubov Alyoshkina 10+14 rebs

*****************************************************
  LUXEMBOURG - Women  


Arvi stormed past BBT Letzebuerg in Luxembourg - by Eurobasket News
BBT Letzebuerg - Arvi Marijampole 52:86

Arvi stormed past BBT Letzebuerg in Luxembourg last night to feel more comfortable at home in the next game. Lithuanian team had a road 52:86 win with the victories in all the quarters. Tetyana Shchypakina (180-F-85) led the winners with 23 points and 15 rebounds. Ligita Kinkeviciene (173-G-76) posted 15, whilst Lyubov Alyoshkina (203-C-81, agency: LBM Management) collected 10 points and 14 rebounds. Amanda Stowe (186-F/C-79, agency: Next Level, college: Wisc.-Green Bay) resisted for the hosts with 20 points and 15 rebounds, while Ranela Skegro (187-F/C-71) netted 11.
Arvi Marijampole never trailed and took control of the game for good right in the beginning of the game. Tetyana Shchypakina made the score 4:0 and then after 7-0 run in the middle of the first the guests had 17:8. The Baltic side led 21:12 at the end of the frame and had a stranglehold on proceedings at half-time with a 46:26 advantage.
Arvi started the third period with a 8-0 run for 53:26. Petrova pulled her team a bit back as the teams finished three quarters of the game at 45:66. With 20-7 in the last period Arvi sealed the first victory in the match-up. Tetyana Shchypakina set up the Final 86:52 score at the end of the game. The teams will now travel to Lithuiania for the second game of the campaign. Arvi however can book the tickets for the next stage right now.

BBT Letzebuerg: Amanda Stowe 20+15 rebs, Ranela Skegro 11
Arvi Marijampole: Tetyana Shchypakina 23+15 rebs, Ligita Kinkeviciene 15, Lyubov Alyoshkina 10+14 rebs

*****************************************************
  NCAA1 - Women  


Holly Togiai to be inducted on Oct. 4 to a Hall of Fame at ISU - by Eurobasket News
In the 50th year of the ISU Sports Hall of Fame, this might be one of the all-time great classes, as Jason Whitmer, Jim Lane, Holly Togiai, and Alice Heberlein will be inducted into on the weekend of October 3 and 4, along with Lifetime Achievement Award recipients Dave Kragthorpe and Jim & Su Fox. The seven person class brings the total in the Hall of Fame to 206, and it is the largest class to be inducted since 2001, when Stacy Dragila, Marvin Lewis, Bill Snapp, Debbie Masak-Jenkins, Donn Holston, Dennis Critchfield, and Glenn Alford were all honored in another star-studded class.

Whitmer and Lane played football, Togiai played basketball, Heberlein played volleyball and later was head volleyball coach, Kragthorpe led ISU to the 1981 I-AA football national title, and Jim & Su Fox have served the athletic department in a variety of functions from boosters to broadcasting.

The 2008 class will be inducted at the Hall of Fame Luncheon at the Red Lion on Saturday October 4 at 10:00 am, and then introduced at halftime of ISU's game vs. Montana State, which kicks off at 1:37 pm and will be shown nationally on Altitude Sports. The ISU Hall of Fame is located in the ISU Sports Medicine and Orthopaedic Center, adjacent to Holt Arena. The Sports Medicine Center will serve as the host site for a reception at 7:00 pm on Friday, October 3.

In order to be eligible for selection to the Hall, a candidate must have attended Idaho State for at least one year and excelled in at least one intercollegiate sport. Preference is given to those who have been out of school for at least 10 years. Voting is restricted to Hall of Fame members who are on the Selection Committee.


The following is information on the seven inductees:

Alice Heberlein, Volleyball (1980-83): Alice Heberlein (who played as Alice LaTourrette) played volleyball at ISU for four years in the formative stages of the program under three coaches, spanning two seasons as an independent and two in the Mountain West Athletic Conference. Heberlein's 41 solo blocks in 1983 are still the fifth-most in school history, and she would almost assuredly be listed among the career leaders for blocks and kills if records were available for her first three seasons. She spent two seasons as an assistant coach in 1984 and 1985, and then became the head coach in 1993. She spent two seasons heading the program, leading ISU to their last postseason appearance as her 1994 squad qualified for the National Invitational Volleyball Tournament.

Jim Lane, Football (1980-82): Jim Lane becomes the sixth member of the 1981 national championship team to earn induction into the ISU Sports Hall of Fame. Lane lettered from 1980 to 1982, and he served as the team captain in 1980 as a sophomore, and was named First Team All-Big Sky at center in 1982. He was a 12th round draft pick of the Detroit Lions in the 1983 entry draft as well. Lane anchored an offensive line in 1981 that still holds school records for points, yards, completions, attempts, and first downs, going 12-1.

Holly Togiai , Women's Basketball (1994-98): Holly Togiai was the first big star in the Big Sky Conference era of ISU women's basketball. A three-time team Most Valuable Player, Togiai helped the Bengals to back-to-back winning seasons for the first time in 19 years. Togiai earned MVP honors as a freshman in 1995, and again in 1997 and 1998, the first women's basketball player to earn that honor three times. In 1996, she earned the team's Most Inspirational Award. She was a two-time First Team All-Big Sky Conference honoree in 1997 and 1998, she was the Big Sky Player of the Week three times in the 1997-98 season, and she won ISU's first major women's basketball conference award, being named Freshman of the Year in 1995. She also excelled in the classroom, earning Big Sky All-Academic honors three times. Her 1,145 points ranks seventh in school history, and her 764 rebounds ranks fourth. Togiai eventually served as an assistant coach with Idaho State, and was part of the 2001 staff that won a school record 21 straight games and won the school's first Big Sky women's basketball title, advancing to their first NCAA Tournament.

Jason Whitmer, Football (1987-90) and Track (1990): Jason Whitmer is Idaho State's all-time leading passer, and he holds numerous school records. Never blessed with great teams and with defense's knowing he was going to pass, Jason still set career marks for passing yards (9,081), passing touchdowns (55), completions (721), attempts (1,349), 300-yard games (12), plays on total offense (1,617), total offense yards (8,456), and total offense touchdowns (58). He also owns ISU Holt Arena records for yards in a game with 469 vs. Weber State and with 38 completions against Idaho. He also owns numerous class records, and is ranked on even more top 10 lists for the Bengals. He was a two-time Big Sky Player of the Week, and All-Big Sky Academic in 1988. All told, he holds 17 Idaho State records. Since finishing his career, Whitmer still gives back to ISU through his involvement with the Football Alumni Team, serving on their board of directors.

Jim & Su Fox, Lifetime Achievement Award: Jim & Su Fox have been synonymous with Idaho State athletics, even after Jim's untimely passing in the summer of 2002. Jim served as the play-by-play voice of the Bengals from 1994 until his passing, with his wife Su serving as a spotter. Prior to that, Jim & Su were on television, with Jim handling sports and Su the weather. Jim & Su have served the university and athletics in a variety of ways, from fundraising and chairing the I Love ISU campaign, to serving as an athletics consultant. They are the first husband and wife tandem inducted together.

Dave Kragthorpe, Lifetime Achievement Award: Dave Kragthorpe coached the football team from 1980-82, and he quickly took a team that had lost 19 straight football games, and just 19 games later had a conference championship on the way to the 1981 I-AA national title. Kragthorpe's 1981 team went 12-1, starting 5-0 before destroying their three playoff opponents to the tune of 126-35 overall. Kragthorpe eventually went on to earn Pac-10 Coach of the Year honors at Oregon State, and he also served as the Athletic Director at Utah State, his alma mater.

Courtesy of www.isubengals.com

*****************************************************
  PORTUGAL - Women  


Athinaikos BC beat CAB Madeira in the opener - by Eurobasket News
CAB Madeira -Athinaikos BC 45:78

Athinaikos BC can probably book the tickets to Eurocup next stage as last night the team had a road win over CAB Madeira. After the wins in all the quarters the guests celebrated 78:45 victory. LaToya Davis (186-F/C-84, college: Texas Tech) top-scored for the winners with 23 points and 10 rebounds. Afroditi Kosma (187-F/C-83) collected 11 points and 10 rebounds, while Maria Manoli (178-G-81) posted 10. Ebony Twiggs (191-C-83, college: Cheyney) produced 15 points and 12 rebounds in defeat and Danielle Hood (185-F/C-86, agency: LBM Management, college: Hartford) collected 13 points and 11 boards.
The Greek team was 24 of 34 inside the arc and 8 of 26 from long range.By comparison, the Portuguese were only 12 of 36 from two-point range and made a mere 4 of 21 from three-point distance.
LaToya Davis rushed with her team in the first seconds of the game and it was her to score first in the game. After 7:7 the Greek side pushed the way for 15:8 at the end of the opening quarter. In the second quarter Athinaikos BC added 18:10 and had 13 points advantage entering the second half. Zerva with a lay-up sent the teams to the lockers for 33:20.
Nothing specific had changed in the last period and the visitors continued to be the leaders in the court. With 16-8 in the third frame they improved to 49:28 after three quarters and then led the game to 78:45 victory.

CAB Madeira: Ebony Twiggs 15+12 rebs, Danielle Hood 13+11 rebs
Athinaikos BC: LaToya Davis 23+10 rebs, Afroditi Kosma 11+10 rebs, Maria Manoli 10

Olivais signs Brandao and Rodrigues - by Luis Rocha
Olivais last season champions, is about to face the new season with two major signings. Michelle Brandao (171-G-91) and Catarina Rodrigues are their new adds for the season. Michelle comes from Escola limiana, and is one of the best promises in Portugal as point guard. Catarina is another big promise that comes from Santarem,and plays as shooting guard. Both players have played for Portugal in Divison B sub 18 and sub 20 respectively, and will turn Olivais into a younger team, now that some of the older players are about to leave.Many observers have Michelle (a New Yorker by birth) at a tight watch, looking very closely to her development, she can be heading into higher stages.

*****************************************************
  ROMANIA - Women  


Targoviste thrashes Electra Ramat-Hasharon - by Eurobasket News
Municipal Targoviste - Electra Ramat-Hasharon 76:47

Targoviste thrashes Electra Ramat-Hasharon at home in the opener of EuroCup Qualifying Round. A massive 28-10 in the opening quarter helped them to build up their lead. In a great team game where the top players scored only 10 points Romanian side celebrated 76:47 win. Radostina Slavova (186-F-86) and Elena Dinca (177-F-84) led the winners with 10 points. Olga Masilionene (181-F-80, agency: LBM Management) and Boriga followed them with 9 points apiece in Targoviste. Mirav Dori (178-F-86) top-scored in defeat with 12 points, while Abiola Wabara (183-F-81, college: Baylor) and Ayelet Cohen (172-G-85) added 11 each.
Valentin opened the game for the hosts that even did not expect such a start. The first quarter was a holiday of almost all scored baskets from the hosts. Municipal Targoviste provided 28-10 in the opening quarter and never looked behind after. Boriga scored first two in the second period for 31:10. Electra Ramat-Hasharon had even hard time following the tempo and rhythm and in the game. Suez Karni somehow made it 51:21 at the halftime.
In the third period the picture did not change and Municipal Targoviste was even not thinking of slowing down. Varda posted two at the end of the third for 67:32. Only in the last stanza Israeli team could show the basketball they used to play. Electra Ramat-Hasharon produced 15-9 in the final period to close the game at 76:47.

Municipal Targoviste:Radostina Slavova 10, Elena Dinca 10, Olga Masilionene 9, Boriga 9
Electra Ramat-Hasharon: Mirav Dori 12, Abiola Wabara 11, Ayelet Cohen 11

*****************************************************
  RUSSIA - Women  


Spartak Noginsk make its name loud after a road win in Estonia - by Eurobasket News
BC Star -Spartak Noginsk 56:82

Spartak Noginsk opens the Qualifying Round with a confident win over BC Star in Estonia. The team from Tallinn tried hard but lost 56:82 to the new Russian representative in EuroCup. Spartak Noginsk started with 23-9 in the opening quarter and never looked behind. Colleen Miller led the winners with 20 points and 9 rebounds. Tatiana Sergeeva (198-C-82) netted 18, while Svetlana Romanova (178-G-81) scored 12. Ashley Wallace (183-C-85, college: Pace) ended up with 15 in defeat and Davineia Payne (175-G-83, college: La Salle) collected 13 points and 15 rebounds in the losing effort.
The Russian team scored first six points in the game and Milanovich made it 6:0 in the opening tip. Tsekhmeyster brought her tea to 15:5, while Khodzayan closed the first at 23:9. The advantage became even more comfortable for the guests after 21:13 in the second period. Tatiana Sergeeva with a jump shot made it 44:22.
The game was over, but the hosts still tried hard in the second half. BC Star created 21:16 to reduce to 43:60 after 30 minutes of the game. Spartak Noginsk however closed the game with 22:13 in the last period. As a result Russian team became the winner of the first leg with a comfortable 82:56 win.

BC Star: Ashley Wallace 15, Davineia Payne 13+15 rebs, Anna Rannaveski (172-G-90) 13
Spartak Noginsk: Colleen Miller 20+9 rebs, Tatiana Sergeeva 18, Svetlana Romanova 12

*****************************************************
  SLOVAKIA - Women  


Round 2 results and stats - by Eurobasket News
Slovakian league played the games of the second round that brought the first win of the defending champions. It was the first game for Maxima Broker Kosice that did not play in the opening round. Last night the team did not have any difficulties reaching the 88:50 victory over Nitra. Linda Frohlich (188-F/C-79, agency: LBM Management, college: UNLV) top-scored for the winners with 22 points. Daniela Cikosova (181-F-82) netted 16 and Kovacova had 14. Edita Sujanova (190-C-85) ended up with 17 points in the losing effort.
Slovan was another team to celebrate at home over poprad 79:74. Hana Krizmova (170-F-85) led the way with 17 points for the winners. Talajkova-Kozmonova and Horonyova added 15 each, while Maria Capova (170-F-89) scored 13. Tetemondova was the best for the guests providing 29 points.
Basket Steel Kosice overcame Cassovia 78:59 away from home to take 2-0 record. With 25:18 in the opening quarter the visitors dominated the rest of the game. Krasnockova top-scored for the winners with 22 points. Aubryova followed her with 19 and Jana Stantienova (189-C-84) scored 17. Kamela Gissendanner (185-G-85, college: Penn St.) produced 18 points in defeat.
Presov stole a victory from Roznava 47:63 also away from home. Erin Lawless (188-F-85, agency: LBM Management, college: Purdue) led the way with 20 points as her team is 1-1 in the league.

MAXIMA BROKER - NITRA 88:50 (25:23, 41:29, 70:40)

KOSICE: Frohlichova 22, Cikosova 16, Kovacova 14

INPEK UKF: Sujanova 17 (3), Kubatova 9, Mracnova 9


CASSOVIA - BASKET STEEL 59:78 (18:25, 33:46, 45:61)

KOSICE: Gissendannerova 18, Zingorova 11

SLOVAKIA KOSICE: Krasnockova 22, Aubryova 19, Stantienova 17



ROZNAVA - PRESOV 47:63 (7:19, 20:31, 33:40)

AT GEMTEX MBK: Oaddamsova 11, Benuskova 11, Polakova 11

BK '99 PU: Lawlessova 20 (3), Karavajevova 8, Deckerova 8


SLOVAN - POPRAD 79:74 (19:15, 45:33, 58:54)

BRATISLAVA: Krizmova 17, Talajkova-Kozmonova 15, Capova 13

ZBK WHIRLPOOL: Tetemondova 29



*****************************************************
  WNBA - Women  


Katie Smith puts the Shock closer to the title - by Eurobasket News
San Antonio - Detroit 69:77

Katie Smith (5'11''-G-74, college: Ohio St.) knocked down 25 points and the Detroit Shock celebrated a 77:69 win over the San Antonio Silver Stars at the AT&T Center in Texas. Thus Detroit grabbed a 1-0 lead in the best-of-five WNBA Finals series. The Shock now have a good shot at retaining the WNBA title which they last scored in 2006. The second game of the series in scheduled for Friday in San Antonio.
Katie Smith was well helped by Tay McWilliams (6'3''-F/C-70, college: St.Edward's) as the veteran center nailed 24 points in the win. Sophia Young (6'1''-F-83, college: Baylor) led the Silver Stars with 21 points. Ann Wauters (6'5''-C-80) delivered 16 points in defeat. Both Rebecca Hammon and Deanna Nolan (5'11''-G/F-79, college: Georgia) were quiet on the night scoring 13 and 10 points respectively. The visitors looked just a little bit better in the first half and piled up a 10-point lead at halftime. Katie Smith put the Shock up by 14 points soon after the beginning of the second half. However the hosts refused to bow. They outgunned the Shock 20:6 and draw things level 69 with just over 2 minutes to go. Kara Braxton (6'6''-C-83, college: Georgia) and Katie Smith nailed 4 points in a row to put the visiting side back in front. Detroit stayed calm in the dying seconds and sealed the winning outcome with 4 accurate free throws. Both teams played without some key players. Detroit missed Plenette Pierson as she was sidelined because of shoulder injury. The home team played without Helen Darling and Edwige Lawson-Wade.

San Antonio: Sophia Young 21, Ann Wauters 16
Detroit: Katie Smith 25, Tay McWilliams 24, Deanna Nolan 10, Kara Braxton 10