EUROBASKET NEWS REPORT - 11/13/2008

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   


ABA President/CEO suspended - by Gianni Pascucci
The American Basketball Association today announced that Quentin Townsend , President and Chief Operating Officer for the league, has been suspended and relieved of all duties pending the outcome of a 'theft by deception' charge filed by the prosecutor of Forsythe County, Georgia. In a statement released by Joe Newman, ABA CEO, 'We are very distressed by this news and felt it was in the best interests of the league to suspend Quentin pending resolution of the charges. We will not comment on the allegations and will leave it to the judicial system to determine his guilt or innocence. Quentin has been an excellent President and team owner and we hope for a positive result.'

Oops, the ABA season has started - by Gianni Pascucci
On the past saturday, the 2008-09 ABA season started in Knoxville, Teennessee, and is very, very typical for this crazy league that almost all the media have to notice it only now. In the inaugural game, the Nashville Broncs defeated the Knoxville Thunderbolts on the road, 133-91. Both teams started out strong with the score going back and forth all the way up through the third quarter. Then Nashville turned it on with Ronnie McMahan (6'5''-F-72, college: Vanderbilt), Jemere Hendrix (6'8''-F-83, college: Tennessee) and Josh Cooperwood (6'4''-G-80, agency: Pro Management Agency, college: Tennessee St.) hitting most of their shots. Knoxville's Chris Wiley (6'0''-G-81, college: Knoxville) with 17 points lead the team. Andy Tipton (6'7''-F, college: Carson-Newman) and Michael Blue (6'4''-F-85) both with 15 points trying to bring the team back. The fourth quarter play by the Broncs was just too much for the Thunderbolts to handle and Nashville won the first game of the ABA season.

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


Belgrade sent Allianz Swans Gmunden out of EuroCup - by Eurobasket News
Crvena Zvezda -Allianz Swans Gmunden 96:81

Belgrade sent Allianz Swans Gmunden out of EuroCup and will have Crvena Zvezda in the regular season of the competition. Crvena Zvezda overcame Allianz Swans Gmunden 96:81 to advance to the next round. Tadija Dragicevic (205-F-86, agency: Beo Basket) paced all the winners with 21 points and 11 rebounds. Leroy Andre Owens (192-G-80, college: Houston) nailed 14, while Marko Marinovic (183-G-83) posted 13. Elijah Palmer (201-F-81, agency: Court Side, college: Duquesne) and Deteri Mayes (189-G-74, agency: Court Side, college: Murray St.) brought 25 points each in the losing effort. Crvena Zvezda wins 178-163 on aggregate.
After 82:82 in the first game the first period did not bring the advantage to any of the teams. Keselj with a lay-up made it 24:24. The hosts took a lead later in the second and Tadija Dragicevic made it 51:41 with 1.25 to play in the first half. Elijah Palmer scored for 51:42 as the teams went to the lockers.
Pesic's team then extended the advantage to 74:57 by the end of the third quarter. Swans poured in the first nine points of the fourth quarter, capped by Matthias Mayer's three-point play to trim the deficit to 74:66. Bjelica made it 84:68 as the Serbian team started to celebrate. Tadija Dragicevic set up the final, 96:81 with his team advancing to the next stage.

Crvena Zvezda: Tadija Dragicevic 21+11 rebs, Leroy Andre Owens 14, Marko Marinovic 13
Allianz Swans Gmunden: Elijah Palmer 25+12 rebs, Deteri Mayes 25

*****************************************************
  BAHRAIN   


Manama Topple Al Hala - by Walter Neto
MAHMOOD Ghuloom and Mohammed Hussain put on a splendid perimeter shooting display last night to lead Manama to a 105-69 romp of Al Hala in the Zain Bahrain Basketball League, played at the Um Al Hassam sports complex.

The backcourt tandem combined for eight three-point makes between them in the lopsided victory, which was their fifth in six games. Ghuloom top-scored for Manama with 30 points including three triples, while Hussain contributed 25 markers including his game-high five field goals from beyond the arc.

The victors held a narrow 27-24 lead after an up-and-down opening quarter, but cruised from there as they took control of the contest in the second period to head into half-time 49-34 ahead. Manama extended their advantage to 82-59 heading into the final period, and didn't let up in the closing moments to seal the 36-point win.

American professional Jarred David added 28 points to Manama's cause while also controlling the interior and grabbing a game-high 19 rebounds. Ahmed Mirza had 16 points to pace Hala, who suffered their fourth loss in seven games. Import Jonathan Hopkins put in another 15 points but managed to take down just six rebounds. SOURCE: GDN

Manama Guard wins weekly basketball league honour - by Walter Neto
MANAMA'S Mohammed Hussain was yesterday named the Player of the Week in the Zain Bahrain Basketball League.

Hussain was instrumental in his club's 105-69 rout of Al Hala on Monday, scoring 25 points, including five-three pointers, in just 25 minutes of play. He also dished out four assists and registered two steals.Hussain beat out Al Ettihad pair Kadhem Majed and Sayed Mohammed Sharaf for the weekly individual honour.

Both players helped lead Ettihad to a 78-60 triumph over Bahrain Club. Majed had an all-around effort, scoring 25 points, grabbing nine rebounds and registering six assists; while Sharaf had a double-double of 11 points and 13 rebounds to go with two steals.

All three were also named to the Team of the Week. Abdullah Al Khaja of Al Ahli and Isa Ebrahim of Muharraq were the other two players on the squad. Ahli's Nedhal Abbas, meanwhile, was named the Sixth Man of the Week, while Hussain's Manama teammate, American import Jarred David, was named the Professional of the Week.

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


Transfer and Injury News - by Peter Buyse


Spirou Charleroi has hired last year's Belgian playoff MVP Matt Walsh (197-F/G-82, agency: college: Florida) to replace the injured Mladen Sekularac for one month.
According to the team's website the deal could be extended for the rest of the season.
Walsh played for the Sacramento Kings during the Las Vegas summerleague and for the Cleveland Cavaliers during the 2007 Summerleague.

He was signed as a free agent by the Miami Heat on Sept 26th and released on Oct 4th.

Optima Gent guard Jesse Kimbrough (183-G-82, college: Jacksonville) will be sidelined between 3 weeks and a month due to a nagging ankle injury.
Kimbrough already missed most of the pre-season with ankle problems.



Le Havre stops Base BC Oostende - by Eurobasket News
Base BC Oostende - STB Le Havre 83:88

Le Havre stops Base BC Oostende to seal a place in the EuroCup. Belgian team made lots of loud wins in the Qualifying Round, but would have to admit the loss from Le Havre in Game 2 and on aggregate. T.J. Thompson (177-G-82, agency: SportsTalent, college: George Washington) led the French team to 88:83 win in Belgium with 19 points and 6 assists. Romain Duport (217-C-86) followed him with 16 points and Aleksandar Bojic (207-C-81, agency: Court Side, college: Hawaii-Pacific) added 15. Rashid Atkins (182-G-75, agency: Interperformances, college: St.Joseph's) ended up with 15 in defeat, while Matt Haryasz (210-C-84, agency: Octagon, college: Stanford) and Nick Fazekas (211-F-85, agency: Beo Basket, college: Nevada) produced 14 each. Le Havre wins 172-168 as a total of two games.
Base BC Oostende surprised not only the Russian team but the French outfit in Game 1 as well. Nick Fazekas gave his team 4-0 run as the hosts proved their ambitions. Green nailed two at the end of the first for 21:17. Even after 20-22 in the second frame the hosts had 41:39 at the halftime.
Merriex tied the game at 60:60 and T.J. Thompson brought the visitors 67:64 at the end of the third frame. Rimac extended the lead to 80:72 but Base BC Oostende were too far to give up. Rashid Atkins closed an 8-0 run for 80:80 with 01.18 to play. STB Le Havre however used the same run and T.J. Thompson closed it at 88:80, while Paunic's three set up the final, 88:83.

Base BC Oostende: Rashid Atkins 15, Matt Haryasz 14, Nick Fazekas 14
STB Le Havre: T.J. Thompson 19+6 ast, Romain Duport 16, Aleksandar Bojic 15

Liege topple Vichy to reach EuroChallenge regular season - by Eurobasket News
Vichy - Liege 77:80

Liege held off Vichy in France to secure their EuroChallenge regular season birth. Vichy had to overcome a 7-point first-game deficit but were unable to deliver the needed result. And the hosts looked en route to a big success in the first stanza. Kareem Reid (178-G-75, college: Arkansas), Gradit and Moss allowed the home side to accumulate a 5-point advantage at the first break. Moss marked the 7-point lead for Vichy as he opened the second quarter with a layup. But Liege recovered late in the half. Will Thomas (201-F-86, agency: Interperformances), Christopher Hill (191-G-83, college: Michigan St.) and Wilson teamed up for 10 straight points for Liege as they grabbed a 36:31 advantage at halftime. Will Thomas and Justin Cage (198-F-85, agency: Elfus-Siegel Management (ESM), college: Xavier) extended the lead to 7 points before Christopher Hill knocked down a timely three-pointer to give Liege a 10-point advantage. Vichy looked stunned and Liege easily maintained a 10-point buffer heading into the fourth quarter. Alexis Rambur (195-G-83) stepped up for Vichy with some important buckets and the French team regained the lead at 72:70. However Justin Cage, Wilson and Jerald Fields (201-F-82, agency: Edge Sports, college: E.Tenn.St.) ensured the win for Liege at the end.
Christopher Hill topscored with 17 points for the visitors. Justin Cage added 15 points, while Will Thomas had 12 points and 10 boards for the winners. David Melody (184-G-77) answered with 16 points for Vichy. Kareem Reid knocked down 13 points in the loss.

Vichy: David Melody 16, Kareem Reid 13
Liege: Christopher Hill 17, Justin Cage 15, Will Thomas 12+10 boards

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


EWE Oldenburg sneak past Borac Nektar - by Eurobasket News
Borac Nektar - EWE Basket 74:74

EWE Basket Oldenburg secured a 74:74 draw in Bosnia to overcome Borac Nektar in the EuroChallenge second qualifying round. Borac Nektar lost the opening game by 30 points and had vague chances before the return leg. And the miracle did not happen as EWE Basket easily secured a positive result at the end. Borac Nektar scored the first four points of the game however it was a short success for the hosts. Oldenburg answered with 9 straight points to jump ahead. Borac refused to fold that early and capped the starting frame with a 10:0 run that allowed them to enjoy a 19:14 advantage. Puljko nailed a three-pointer at the start of the second term and Borac led by 8 points. The hosts widened the margin to 10 points at halftime. Donta Richardson (188-G-81, college: Wyoming) scored 5 straight points early in the third frame and Borac jumped to a 15-point cushion. But two trebles from Je'Kel Foster (191-G-83, agency: Court Side, college: Ohio St.) chilled out the Bosnian team a bit. Borac still had a chance as they were up by 13 points before the fourth quarter. However it was as far as Borac could clear off. Majstrovic, Marko Scekic (207-F-81, agency: Agency No 10) and Rickey Paulding (196-G-82, agency: Pro One Sports, college: Missouri) fueled a comeback effort from the visitors as they narrowed the gap. Three straight treys from Rickey Paulding and Je'Kel Foster allowed Oldenburg to coma as close as one point with 47 seconds remaining. Omari Peterkin (204-F/C-83, college: Boston U.) converted a freebie but Je'Kel Foster tapped the ball in to knot things up at 74 at the end.
Je'Kel Foster paced the visitors with 19 points. Rickey Paulding added 16 points, while Marko Scekic and Jason Gardner (178-G-80, agency: Interperformances, college: Arizona) had 11 points each for Oldenburg. Omari Peterkin and Josko Garma (206-F-81, agency: Agency No 10) replied with 14 points apiece for Borac Nektar.

Borac Nektar: Omari Peterkin 14, Josko Garma 14
EWE Basket: Je'Kel Foster 19, Rickey Paulding 16, Marko Scekic 11, Jason Gardner 11

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


English Leads Gran Canaria into 1st place in Spains ACB League - by John Gary
courtesy basketball canada Carl English of the Canadian Senior Mens National team has led Gran Canaria to the top of the standings in Spains ACB pro league for the first time in league history. English scored 22 points on sunday as Gran Canaria outscored Unicaja Malaga 26-17 in the final quarter to win 74-68 in the Canary Islands.The triumpth in front of 5130 delirious fans was the fifth in a row for Gran Canaria which is now tied for first place in the ACB with Tau Ceramica Vitoria at 5-1. Unicaja is a game back tied with Regal Barcelona at 5-2.

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


CBA New Season Will Start - by Robert Wang
CBA new season (2008-2009) will start this weekend. All teams are ready for this new season since most imports are from NBA and the teams are still need NBA guys for this impacted season. So far, some teams are not satisfied with their current players and they will still replace the player if the first round are not good from the performance of the imports. the first game is on Friday night between Guang dong and Jiang Su, and then the other teams will play the following night between Zhe Jiang and qing Dao, Liao Ning and shan Xi, Guang dong and fu Jian, Guang sha and shang Hai, Yun Nan and Ba Yi, Shan Dong and Tian Jin, Shan xi and Ji Lin, Bei Jing and Xin Jiang. We will follow up the game stats as long as the league start andwe wil inform the the team roster since no correct team roster currently. Hope we have a good season this year!



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


Samara lose in Croatia, still qualify for EuroChallenge - by Eurobasket News
KK Zagreb - Samara 76:69

Samara secured the win on aggregate against Croatian KK Zagreb despite a 69:76 loss in Zagreb. Samara arrived to Croatia with a 20-point buffer after the home game and looked pretty confident en route to the next round. The visitors opened the game with a 5:0 run to send a strong message to the hosts. Marque Perry (186-G-81, agency: N.E.T., college: St.Louis) and Ivanov scored the final six points in the opening term and Samara led 26:18 after ten minutes of action. Marque Perry kept the Russian team in charge in the second frame and Samara enjoyed a 43:38 advantage at the interval. Zagreb sparked the intrigue when they started the third frame on a 16:0 run to grab a 54:43 lead. But Marque Perry and Andrew Sullivan (203-F-80, college: Villanova) accounted for some key points late in the frame to soothe the tension. Zagreb headed into the fourth term leading by just 5 points. Krunoslav Simon (197-G/F-85) and Andrej Stimac (204-F/C-79) fired 7 straight points for the hosts to enlarge the gap to 9 points. However Marque Perry, Sergei Demeshkin (200-F-76) and Virgil Stanescu (207-C/F-77, agency: Interperformances, college: S.Alabama) silenced the home team and Samara ensured the win on aggregate at the end.
Marque Perry knocked down 27 points for Samara. Andrew Sullivan added 12 points and 11 boards in defeat. Jakov Vladovic (186-G-83) led Zagreb with 23 points. Krunoslav Simon contributed 22 points for the home team.

Zagreb: Jakov Vladovic 23, Krunoslav Simon 22, Andrej Stimac 15
Samara: Marque Perry 27, Andrew Sullivan 12+11 boards

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


AEL book EuroChallenge regular season ticket - by Eurobasket News
AEL - Banvit 89:72

AEL handled Banvit in Limassol and advanced to the EuroChallenge regular season. Having built a 7-point cushion after the first game AEL gave not a single chance for Banvit at home court. Haris Mujezinovic (205-F-74, agency: Beo Basket, college: Indiana) knocked down 16 points and grabbed 8 rebounds to pace AEL. Vujadin Subotic (198-G-81, agency: Beo Basket) added 13 points, while Quincy Taylor (196-G-82, college: UAB) and LaVell Blanchard (201-G-81, agency: Beo Basket, college: Michigan) secured 12 points each for the winners. Lance Williams (206-C-80, college: De Paul) answered with 18 points for Banvit. Joseph Crispin (186-G-79, agency: Interperformances, college: Penn St.), Yildirim and Turna had 8 points each in defeat.
AEL looked solid right from the start as they warmly welcomed Banvit. The hosts scored the first ten points of the game and cruised to a 26:12 lead at the end of the opening term. Three-pointers from Mitchell and Milan Dozet (203-G/F-79, agency: Beo Basket) kept AEL in front early in the second term. Milan Dozet and LaVell Blanchard secured a 46:34 advantage for the hosts at halftime. Quincy Taylor opened the second half with consecutive buckets and AEL led by 16 points at the moment. Banvit refused to surrender and cut the deficit to 11 points at the final intermission. However Haris Mujezinovic, Milan Dozet and Quincy Taylor came up with baskets at the start of the fourth quarter and AEL never looked back en route to the victory.
Banvit outrebounded AEL 34:32 but shot just 40% from the field. AEL sank impressive 56% of field goals in the win.

AEL: Haris Mujezinovic 16, Vujadin Subotic 13, Quincy Taylor 12, LaVell Blanchard 12
Banvit: Lance Williams 18, Joseph Crispin 8

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


Post Draft Trades - by Surujh Roopnarine
Los Angeles D-Fenders: Acquired Dwayne Mitchell (6'5''-G-82, agency: Pro One Sports, college: La-Lafayette) from the Iowa Energy in exchange for Patrick Sanders (6'6''-F). Mitchell was in the Vegas Summer League and Training Camp with Los Angeles this summer, so this moves makes sense if they feel he can develop and be a good fit for their system.

Dakota Wizards: Acquired former UConn guard/forward Denham Brown (6'6''-F-83, college: Connecticut) from the Utah Flash in exchange for the ever steady Dontell Jefferson (6'5''-G-83, college: Arkansas).

Tulsa 66ers: Acquired former Sienna standout guard Antoine Jordan (6'5''-G-83, college: Siena) in exchange for NBA veteran shot-swatting center Keith Closs (7'3''-C-76, agency: Court Side, college: Cent.Conn.St.).

*****************************************************
  EL SALVADOR   


Liga Superior started yesterday - by Gianni Pascucci

(with the help of Jaime Arevalo)

With the first doubleheader between UTEC-Universidad Tecnologica-Cosmos and San Marcos-Ex Alumnos Colegio Salesiano started yesterday night the Clausura edition of the Salvadorean Liga Superior de Baloncesto 2008. The teams registered are five (the fifth one is Centro Educativo Denver) and after a 12-games regular season the best four teams will advance to Semifinals. The tournment will end on December 16, 2008, and the Apertura winner ExSal is again the favourite.



Liga Premier 2008 underway - by Gianni Pascucci

(with the help of Jaime Arevalo) Last weekend were played the games of the Round 7 of the Liga Premier. Boosted by the two Hondurean player recently signed, Selvin Connor (200-F-74) and Persly Joel Marin, San Marcos defeated Cosmos 68-50, and now is at the second place just behind Cosmos. In the other games of the round, Denver beat ITCA 59-53 and UFG prevailed over Felinos 88-72.

The standings are as follows:
TEAM JJ JG JP PA PE AVERAGE PTS
1. COSMOS 15 13-2 1250 759 200 28
2. SAN MARCOS 14 12-2 1137 901 236 26
3. UFG 14 11-3 1147 1002 145 25
4. DENVER 14 8-6 1057 1020 37 22
5. ITCA 14 4-10 1 999 1081 -82 19
6. FELINOS 14 4-10 1 970 1067 -97 19
7. UTEC 15 2-13 923 1113 -190 17
8. SANTA TECLA 14 3-11 1010 1214 -204 17



*****************************************************
  EUROCHALLENGE   


EuroChallenge Qualifying Round. Return Leg - by Eurobasket News
Amak - Eiffeltowers 64:72
Dutch Eiffeltowers secured a comfortable victory over Macedonian Amak in the return leg of their EuroChallenge second qualifying round series. Eiffeltowers entered the game with a confident 28-point advantage. David Jackson (195-G-78, agency: Edge Sports, college: Oregon) and Jerome Beasley (209-F-80, college: N.Dakota) fired five straight points midway though the first term and the visitors built a 21:14 lead. Marcel Aarts (213-C-83, agency: R.H.Consultancy) and Devonne Giles (203-F-83, college: Texas Tech) maintained the winning tempo for Eiffeltowers as they enjoyed a 27:16 lead at the first break. Devonne Giles scored the first six points for Eiffeltowers as they kept in front in the second term. Richardson capped the first half and the visitors piled up a 37:28 advantage at halftime.
Amak never rebounded in the third quarter. Marcel Aarts, Devonne Giles, David Jackson and Oliver stretched the margin to 18 points. Vojdan Stojanovski (194-G-87) and Jarrid Frye (190-G-85, agency: CAA Sports, college: Sacred Heart) cut the deficit to 13 points early in the fourth term but Amak failed to capitalize on the rally. Jos Frederiks (194-F/G-76, agency: Court Side) and Devonne Giles kept Eiffeltowers in front and sealed the winning outcome at the end.
Devonne Giles finished the game with 18 points for Eiffeltowers. David Jackson and Jerome Beasley scored 10 points each in the win. Jarrid Frye answered with 18 points for Amak. Slobodan Agoc (206-C-77, agency: 011 Sports) delivered 16 points in the losing effort.
Amac outrebounded their opponents 32:26 but committed 18 turnovers. The hosts also shot only 45% from the charity stripe.

Amak: Jarrid Frye 18, Slobodan Agoc 16
Eiffeltowers: Devonne Giles 18, David Jackson 10, Jerome Beasley 10

*

*

BC Sumykhimprom - CBC Siroki 91:82
BC Sumykhimprom advanced to the EuroChallenge regular season defeating Bosnian CBC Siroki 91:82. It was the second game of the EuroChallenge Qualifying Round 2 and Ukrainian side looked better at home. Brian Greene (196-G/F-84, college: Florida A&M) top-scored for the winners with 23 points and 10 rebounds. Artem Butskyy (185-G-81) nailed 18 and Osvaldas Macernis (197-F-82) posted 14. Carlos Morban (187-G-82, agency: Global Sports Plaza, college: Florida Intern.) ended up with 21 points in defeat, while Ivan Siriscevic (198-G/F-87) collected 18 points and 10 rebounds. BC Sumykhimprom wins 164-155 on aggregate.
Ukrainian side scored first 4 points in the game and after the draw in Bosnia went on a total lead. Podorvannyy kept the hosts in front at the end of the opening quarter, 21:19. Josipovic gave the visitors 36:33 in the second frame, but BC Sumykhimprom created an 8-2 run to finish the first half. Ukrainian team won the first 41:38 as Artem Butskyy and Josipovic exchanged threes. A 27-16 in the third quarter was a result of a good rest during the break and louder support of the fans. Sumykhimprom took a 68:54 lead to the final period and held on for a comfortable triumph. The hosts held 10 points in the last period and had even plus 14, when Brian Greene made 86:72. Carlos Morban closed the game at 91:82 as BC Sumykhimprom advanced to the EuroChallenge regular season.

BC Sumykhimprom: Brian Greene 23+10 rebs, Artem Butskyy 18, Osvaldas Macernis 14
CBC Siroki: Carlos Morban 21, Ivan Siriscevic 18+10 rebs




KK Zagreb - Samara 76:69
Samara secured the win on aggregate against Croatian KK Zagreb despite a 69:76 loss in Zagreb. Samara arrived to Croatia with a 20-point buffer after the home game and looked pretty confident en route to the next round. The visitors opened the game with a 5:0 run to send a strong message to the hosts. Marque Perry (186-G-81, agency: N.E.T., college: St.Louis) and Ivanov scored the final six points in the opening term and Samara led 26:18 after ten minutes of action. Marque Perry kept the Russian team in charge in the second frame and Samara enjoyed a 43:38 advantage at the interval. Zagreb sparked the intrigue when they started the third frame on a 16:0 run to grab a 54:43 lead. But Marque Perry and Andrew Sullivan (203-F-80, college: Villanova) accounted for some key points late in the frame to soothe the tension. Zagreb headed into the fourth term leading by just 5 points. Krunoslav Simon (197-G/F-85) and Andrej Stimac (204-F/C-79) fired 7 straight points for the hosts to enlarge the gap to 9 points. However Marque Perry, Sergei Demeshkin (200-F-76) and Virgil Stanescu (207-C/F-77, agency: Interperformances, college: S.Alabama) silenced the home team and Samara ensured the win on aggregate at the end.
Marque Perry knocked down 27 points for Samara. Andrew Sullivan added 12 points and 11 boards in defeat. Jakov Vladovic (186-G-83) led Zagreb with 23 points. Krunoslav Simon contributed 22 points for the home team.

Zagreb: Jakov Vladovic 23, Krunoslav Simon 22, Andrej Stimac 15
Samara: Marque Perry 27, Andrew Sullivan 12+11 boards
*
*
AEL - Banvit 89:72
AEL handled Banvit in Limassol and advanced to the EuroChallenge regular season. Having built a 7-point cushion after the first game AEL gave not a single chance for Banvit at home court. Haris Mujezinovic (205-F-74, agency: Beo Basket, college: Indiana) knocked down 16 points and grabbed 8 rebounds to pace AEL. Vujadin Subotic (198-G-81, agency: Beo Basket) added 13 points, while Quincy Taylor (196-G-82, college: UAB) and LaVell Blanchard (201-G-81, agency: Beo Basket, college: Michigan) secured 12 points each for the winners. Lance Williams (206-C-80, college: De Paul) answered with 18 points for Banvit. Joseph Crispin (186-G-79, agency: Interperformances, college: Penn St.), Yildirim and Turna had 8 points each in defeat.
AEL looked solid right from the start as they warmly welcomed Banvit. The hosts scored the first ten points of the game and cruised to a 26:12 lead at the end of the opening term. Three-pointers from Mitchell and Milan Dozet (203-G/F-79, agency: Beo Basket) kept AEL in front early in the second term. Milan Dozet and LaVell Blanchard secured a 46:34 advantage for the hosts at halftime. Quincy Taylor opened the second half with consecutive buckets and AEL led by 16 points at the moment. Banvit refused to surrender and cut the deficit to 11 points at the final intermission. However Haris Mujezinovic, Milan Dozet and Quincy Taylor came up with baskets at the start of the fourth quarter and AEL never looked back en route to the victory.
Banvit outrebounded AEL 34:32 but shot just 40% from the field. AEL sank impressive 56% of field goals in the win.

AEL: Haris Mujezinovic 16, Vujadin Subotic 13, Quincy Taylor 12, LaVell Blanchard 12
Banvit: Lance Williams 18, Joseph Crispin 8
*
*
Antalya - Skyliners 65:67
Derrick Allen (203-F-80, agency: Pro One Sports, college: Mississippi) nailed a buzzer-beating jump shot winning a dramatic game for Skyliners in Turkey. The Frankfurt outfit took on Antalya away from home after the home 60:60 tie. It was the winner takes it all game for both sides and it lived up to the highest expectations.
King nailed six early points for the visitors as they cleared off to a 17:6 distance. Akin capped the first frame with two free throws and Antalya trailed 8:17 at the first break. Dominik Bahiense de Mello (190-G-85) drained back-to-back trebles for Skyliners as they pulled ahead for a 25:13 lead midway through the second term. Michael Green (185-G-85, college: Towson) and Cemal Bayraktar (184-G-82) managed to cut the distance late in the half and Antalya were behind by 9 points at the interval. Ersin Gorkem (195-F-77) nailed 9 points in the third frame and Antalya came as close as 3 points with one quarter to go. Marcus Douthit (211-F/C-80, agency: Passing Lane, college: Providence) and Ersin Gorkem dragged the hosts within one point from Skyliners early in the fourth period. Three-pointers from Dominik Bahiense de Mello and Ilian Evtimov (201-F-83, agency: Interperformances, college: N.Carolina St.) allowed Skyliners to jump to a 4-point advantage. But Michael Green and Marcus Douthit converted layups for Antalya and drew things level at 62 with just over 2 minutes remaining. Ersin Gorkem netted a free throw to put Antalya ahead. Pascal Roller (180-G-76) answered with a three-point play for Skyliners to regain the lead for the German side 65:63. Antalya refused to fold and Michael Green tied things up at 65 with 26 seconds remaining. But the time remaining was just enough for Skyliners to save the game. Derrick Allen notched a buzzer-beating jumper and Skyliners got away with a narrow victory.
Ilian Evtimov knocked down 16 points for Skyliners. Konrad Wysocki (202-F-82, agency: Pro One Sports, college: Princeton) added 12 points and 10 boards, while Dominik Bahiense de Mello contributed 11 points in the win. Marcus Douthit answered with 16 points and 11 boards for Antalya. Ersin Gorkem had 16 points in the loss.

Antalya: Marcus Douthit 16+11 boards, Ersin Gorkem 16
Skyliners: Ilian Evtimov 16, Konrad Wysocki 12+10 boards, Dominik Bahiense de Mello 11
*
*
Ploiesti - Toulon 77:67
Romanian CSU Ploiesti defeated Toulon in the return leg of their EuroChallenege second qualifying round match-up. The win however was tasteless as Ploiesti failed to overcame a massive 26-point deficit after the game in France.
The lead changed hands several times in the opening term before Darius Hargrove (193-G-82, agency: Global Sports Plaza, college: Virginia Union) tied it all 24 at the end. Darius Hargrove then opened the second term with a three-pointer and Arvydas Cepulis (195-G-79) added another one as Ploiesti grabbed a 32:26 lead. However Vincent Masingue (205-F/C-76), Nichols and Dontaye Draper (180-G-84, college: Charleston) kept Toulon close and the visitors trailed by just 8 points at halftime. Burlacu and Darius Hargrove gave the home team hope as they extended the margin to 15 points early in the third stanza. Rashard Griffith (212-C-74, agency: Edge Sports, college: Wisconsin) scored a layup and Ploiesti got closer to the task leading 53:36 midway through the third frame. Darius Hargrove and Zoran Osmokrovic (189-G-81, agency: Beo Basket) crowned the frame with consecutive buckets and Ploiesti entered the fourth quarter with a 17-point cushion. Zoran Osmokrovic and Arvydas Cepulis stretched the gap to 20 points at the start of the fourth quarter but it was the biggest advantage Ploiesti could build yesterday. Vincent Masingue, Moustapha Sonko (192-G-72) and Pierre Pierce (193-G-83, college: Iowa) cut the distance to 17 points and later Dontaye Draper came up with 7 points late in the game to seal the winning outcome for Toulon on aggregate.
Vincent Masingue scored 17 points and pulled down 9 rebounds for Toulon. Dontaye Draper added 16 points and 6 rebounds for the French side. Darius Hargrove paced Ploiesti with 20 points. Arvydas Cepulis finished with 12 points in the victory.

Ploiesti: Darius Hargrove 20, Arvydas Cepulis 12
Toulon: Vincent Masingue 17, Dontaye Draper 16
*
*
Borac Nektar - EWE Basket 74:74
EWE Basket Oldenburg secured a 74:74 draw in Bosnia to overcome Borac Nektar in the EuroChallenge second qualifying round. Borac Nektar lost the opening game by 30 points and had vague chances before the return leg. And the miracle did not happen as EWE Basket easily secured a positive result at the end. Borac Nektar scored the first four points of the game however it was a short success for the hosts. Oldenburg answered with 9 straight points to jump ahead. Borac refused to fold that early and capped the starting frame with a 10:0 run that allowed them to enjoy a 19:14 advantage. Puljko nailed a three-pointer at the start of the second term and Borac led by 8 points. The hosts widened the margin to 10 points at halftime. Donta Richardson (188-G-81, college: Wyoming) scored 5 straight points early in the third frame and Borac jumped to a 15-point cushion. But two trebles from Je'Kel Foster (191-G-83, agency: Court Side, college: Ohio St.) chilled out the Bosnian team a bit. Borac still had a chance as they were up by 13 points before the fourth quarter. However it was as far as Borac could clear off. Majstrovic, Marko Scekic (207-F-81, agency: Agency No 10) and Rickey Paulding (196-G-82, agency: Pro One Sports, college: Missouri) fueled a comeback effort from the visitors as they narrowed the gap. Three straight treys from Rickey Paulding and Je'Kel Foster allowed Oldenburg to coma as close as one point with 47 seconds remaining. Omari Peterkin (204-F/C-83, college: Boston U.) converted a freebie but Je'Kel Foster tapped the ball in to knot things up at 74 at the end.
Je'Kel Foster paced the visitors with 19 points. Rickey Paulding added 16 points, while Marko Scekic and Jason Gardner (178-G-80, agency: Interperformances, college: Arizona) had 11 points each for Oldenburg. Omari Peterkin and Josko Garma (206-F-81, agency: Agency No 10) replied with 14 points apiece for Borac Nektar.

Borac Nektar: Omari Peterkin 14, Josko Garma 14
EWE Basket: Je'Kel Foster 19, Rickey Paulding 16, Marko Scekic 11, Jason Gardner 11


Vichy - Liege 77:80
Liege held off Vichy in France to secure their EuroChallenge regular season birth. Vichy had to overcome a 7-point first-game deficit but were unable to deliver the needed result. And the hosts looked en route to a big success in the first stanza. Kareem Reid (178-G-75, college: Arkansas), Gradit and Moss allowed the home side to accumulate a 5-point advantage at the first break. Moss marked the 7-point lead for Vichy as he opened the second quarter with a layup. But Liege recovered late in the half. Will Thomas (201-F-86, agency: Interperformances), Christopher Hill (191-G-83, college: Michigan St.) and Wilson teamed up for 10 straight points for Liege as they grabbed a 36:31 advantage at halftime. Will Thomas and Justin Cage (198-F-85, agency: Elfus-Siegel Management (ESM), college: Xavier) extended the lead to 7 points before Christopher Hill knocked down a timely three-pointer to give Liege a 10-point advantage. Vichy looked stunned and Liege easily maintained a 10-point buffer heading into the fourth quarter. Alexis Rambur (195-G-83) stepped up for Vichy with some important buckets and the French team regained the lead at 72:70. However Justin Cage, Wilson and Jerald Fields (201-F-82, agency: Edge Sports, college: E.Tenn.St.) ensured the win for Liege at the end.
Christopher Hill topscored with 17 points for the visitors. Justin Cage added 15 points, while Will Thomas had 12 points and 10 boards for the winners. David Melody (184-G-77) answered with 16 points for Vichy. Kareem Reid knocked down 13 points in the loss.

Vichy: David Melody 16, Kareem Reid 13
Liege: Christopher Hill 17, Justin Cage 15, Will Thomas 12+10 boards


*****************************************************
  EUROCUP   


Changes in Azovmash, Girkis instead of Becirovic - by Eurobasket News

Surprising news came from Mariupol. After first failure of the season, what happened against Khimik in Round 6, management of BC Azovmash decided to fire Mehmet Becirovic. The Slovenian coach, who took over the team in a very difficult situation last year winning the National Cup as well as the Championship, made pretty strong squad with excellent results in preseason and in the first 5 games in Ukrainian Superleague. The team hired Rimas Girkis, who used to be a head coach of the team in 2006/07 and also worked as a Sports Director. Girkis will have his debut at the Azovmash's bench on Saturday in derby game against Kyiv.
According to the rumors, it seems that Azovmash for the first time faced with kind of financial troubles deciding to cut the budget due to world wide crisis. Another rumor also showed up yesterday that Panagiotis Liadelis (193-G-74) and Marc Salyers (205-F-79, college: Samford) get fired while all other players are fined. However, last two sentences are not confirmed by the club yet.



EuroCup Qualifying Round 2. Second games - by Eurobasket News
KK Buducnost -Galatasaray Cafe Crown 93:62

KK Buducnost qualifies to the regular season of EuroCup as the team from Montenegro did not have any difficulties at home over Galatasaray Cafe Crown. After 83:85 in Turkey last week KK Buducnost stormed into the regular season with 93:62 win. Vladimir Micov (201-F-85, agency: Beo Basket) paced all the winners with 17 points. Vladimir Dasic (208-F-88, agency: Beo Basket) and Nemanja Gordic (194-G-88) followed him with 16 points each as KK Buducnost wins 176-147 as a total of two games. Andrija Zizic (207-F/C-80, agency: FCM) nailed 18 in defeat and Dejan Milojevic (200-F-77, agency: Beo Basket) posted 14.
Galatasaray Cafe Crown overcame KK Buducnost in the first leg of the Qualifying Round 2 of Eurocup but knew about a tough road to Montenegro for Game 2. Dejan Milojevic quickly brought the lead for the Turkish side and then Erden closed the opening quarter at 19:15. In the second period the court was dominated only by one team and city Podgorica was satisfied with it. Simonovic tied the game at 24:24 and after that KK Buducnost never looked behind. Otasevic made the score 48:31 as the teams went to the lockers. With another 24-19 the home side had plus 22 in Game 2. Vladimir Dasic with a lay-up led to 72:50 entering the final stanza. Galatasaray Cafe Crown realized that they could not catch up with the opponent and failed at the end. A 21-12 in the last frame gave the hosts 93:62 and the ticket to the regular season of EuroCup.

KK Buducnost: Vladimir Micov 17, Vladimir Dasic 16, Nemanja Gordic 16
Galatasaray Cafe Crown: Andrija Zizic 18, Dejan Milojevic 14

Hapoel Jerusalem -Unics 76:73
Hapoel Jerusalem wins the second game of the EuroCup Qualifying Round 2, however Unics advances to the regular season. After 88:66 in the first game Unics did not mind giving the second game to the Israeli team, 76:73. Timothy Bowers (188-G-82, college: Mississippi St.) paced all the winners with 16 points. Yuval Naimy (185-G/F-86) and Travis Watson (203-F/C-81, college: Virginia) followed him with 12 points as Hapoel Jerusalem will concentrate now on the local league. Terrell Lyday (190-G-79, college: BYU) top-scored for the Russian team with 17 points and Kresimir Loncar (210-F-83) added 14. Unics wins 161-142 on aggregate.
Hapoel led by as many as 10 points in the first quarter but were never able to seriously threaten Unics. Yuval Naimy closed the opening period with 25:18. In the second quarter Sneed brought the hosts 40:30, however Terrell Lyday reduced to 41:35 at the halftime.
Unics opened the third period with 8-3 run and tied the game at 43:43. The Russian squad felt more confident in the court and had 56:54 entering the last stanza. Three times in the last frame the score was tied with the last one at 69:69. Kresimir Loncar made it 73:70 for their last points in the game, but Hapoel finished with 6-0 to take 76:73 win.

Hapoel Jerusalem: Timothy Bowers 16, Yuval Naimy 12, Travis Watson 12
Unics: Terrell Lyday 17, Kresimir Loncar 14

Ural Great - BC FMP Zeleznik 57:69
FMP Zeleznik steps into EuroCup Regular Season showing their superiority over Ural Great from Russia. Perm and 4500 saw another loss of the Russian team 57:69 this time at home as BC FMP Zeleznik wins 138-118 in two games. Dragan Labovic (207-C/F-87) and Nemanja Protic (182-G-86) top-scored for the winners with 19 points each. Filip Covic (180-G-89) nailed 9, while Predrag Samardziski (214-C-86) collected 8 points and 10 rebounds. Darius Washington posted 17 for the hosts and Fedor Likholitov (210-C-80, college: Va Commonwealth) added 11.
BC FMP Zeleznik will start the EuroCup Regular Season, while Ural Great will have to concentrate on the National Superleague. Ural Great never got on track in this tie. Even thought Fedor Likholitov scored first two for the hosts BC FMP Zeleznik bounced back immediately. Moreover Nemanja Protic closed the opening quarter at 17:13 for the guests. With 20-19 the Serbian team improved to 5 points at the end of the first half. Raduljica sent the teams to the lockers for 37:32. The game lost the intrigue at the end of the third quarter when BC FMP Zeleznik built 13 points deficit. Dragan Labovic closed the period at 59:46 with a jump-shot. In a defensive style Serbian side led to the second straight win and got the ticket to EuroCup Regular Season. Dragan Labovic made it 69:57 as the buzzer separated the teams.

Ural Great: Darius Washington (188-G-85, college: Memphis) 17, Fedor Likholitov 11
BC FMP Zeleznik: Dragan Labovic 19, Nemanja Protic 19, Filip Covic 9, Predrag Samardziski 8+10 rebs

Crvena Zvezda -Allianz Swans Gmunden 96:81
Belgrade sent Allianz Swans Gmunden out of EuroCup and will have Crvena Zvezda in the regular season of the competition. Crvena Zvezda overcame Allianz Swans Gmunden 96:81 to advance to the next round. Tadija Dragicevic (205-F-86, agency: Beo Basket) paced all the winners with 21 points and 11 rebounds. Leroy Andre Owens (192-G-80, college: Houston) nailed 14, while Marko Marinovic (183-G-83) posted 13. Elijah Palmer (201-F-81, agency: Court Side, college: Duquesne) and Deteri Mayes (189-G-74, agency: Court Side, college: Murray St.) brought 25 points each in the losing effort. Crvena Zvezda wins 178-163 on aggregate.
After 82:82 in the first game the first period did not bring the advantage to any of the teams. Keselj with a lay-up made it 24:24. The hosts took a lead later in the second and Tadija Dragicevic made it 51:41 with 1.25 to play in the first half. Elijah Palmer scored for 51:42 as the teams went to the lockers.
Pesic's team then extended the advantage to 74:57 by the end of the third quarter. Swans poured in the first nine points of the fourth quarter, capped by Matthias Mayer's three-point play to trim the deficit to 74:66. Bjelica made it 84:68 as the Serbian team started to celebrate. Tadija Dragicevic set up the final, 96:81 with his team advancing to the next stage.

Crvena Zvezda: Tadija Dragicevic 21+11 rebs, Leroy Andre Owens 14, Marko Marinovic 13
Allianz Swans Gmunden: Elijah Palmer 25+12 rebs, Deteri Mayes 25

BC Kyiv - Panellinios 96:72
The capital of Ukraine with 2000 spectators present at the EuroCup Qualifying Round 2 campaign saw a real battle of local BC Kyiv against Panellinios. The Greek side survived in the second game and managed to advance to the regular season. BC Kyiv nearly came back from a 27-point first-leg defeat but posted 96:72 victory. Scoonie Penn (178-G-77, college: Ohio St.) led the winners with 25 points. Manuchar Markoishvili (195-G-86) netted 22, while Brent Wright (203-F/C-78, college: Florida) and Alex Scales (192-G-78, college: Oregon) added 15 each. Manolis Papamakarios (190-G-80) ended up with 15 points in defeat, whilst Anthony Grundy (189-G-79, agency: Strategic Sports, college: N.Carolina St.) and Giorgos Kalaitzis (195-G-76) scored 14 apiece. By prevailing 168-165 on aggregate, the Greek team progressed to the EuroCup.
BC Kyiv opened the game as if they had to and produced 31:13 in the opening quarter. Panellinios replied with 19-11 in the second period to reduce the gap at the halftime. Scoonie Penn's free throw was the last in the second frame for 42:32.
Even though Kyiv team had another run, Panellinios closed the gap again to 10 in the contest at 60:50 by the end of the third quarter. Brent Wright connected from long range to start a 15-0 run for Kyiv which gave them an 82:59 advantage. Alex Scales posted two for 87:65 with less than a minute to play. Manuchar Markoishvili's lay-up brought 93:72 and Jeretin closed the game at 96:72. Greek side prevailing 168-165 on aggregate progressed to the EuroCup.

BC Kyiv: Scoonie Penn 25, Manuchar Markoishvili 22, Brent Wright 15, Alex Scales 15
Panellinios: Manolis Papamakarios 15, Anthony Grundy 14, Giorgos Kalaitzis 14

Base BC Oostende - STB Le Havre 83:88
Le Havre stops Base BC Oostende to seal a place in the EuroCup. Belgian team made lots of loud wins in the Qualifying Round, but would have to admit the loss from Le Havre in Game 2 and on aggregate. T.J. Thompson (177-G-82, agency: SportsTalent, college: George Washington) led the French team to 88:83 win in Belgium with 19 points and 6 assists. Romain Duport (217-C-86) followed him with 16 points and Aleksandar Bojic (207-C-81, agency: Court Side, college: Hawaii-Pacific) added 15. Rashid Atkins (182-G-75, agency: Interperformances, college: St.Joseph's) ended up with 15 in defeat, while Matt Haryasz (210-C-84, agency: Octagon, college: Stanford) and Nick Fazekas (211-F-85, agency: Beo Basket, college: Nevada) produced 14 each. Le Havre wins 172-168 as a total of two games.
Base BC Oostende surprised not only the Russian team but the French outfit in Game 1 as well. Nick Fazekas gave his team 4-0 run as the hosts proved their ambitions. Green nailed two at the end of the first for 21:17. Even after 20-22 in the second frame the hosts had 41:39 at the halftime.
Merriex tied the game at 60:60 and T.J. Thompson brought the visitors 67:64 at the end of the third frame. Rimac extended the lead to 80:72 but Base BC Oostende were too far to give up. Rashid Atkins closed an 8-0 run for 80:80 with 01.18 to play. STB Le Havre however used the same run and T.J. Thompson closed it at 88:80, while Paunic's three set up the final, 88:83.

Base BC Oostende: Rashid Atkins 15, Matt Haryasz 14, Nick Fazekas 14
STB Le Havre: T.J. Thompson 19+6 ast, Romain Duport 16, Aleksandar Bojic 15

Cajasol-ASK Riga 65:68
Latvian ASK Riga will represent the country in EuroCup regular season. The team had a road win in Spain in Game 2 of their EuroCup Qualifying Round 2 to advance to the next stage. Cajasol lost the second game 65:68 and was defeated 134:151 on aggregate. Bruno Sundov (218-C-80) led the winners with 19 points in Game 2. Uvis Helmanis (204-F-72, agency: Stanley International) nailed 16 and Corey Brewer (188-G-75, college: Oklahoma) posted 9. Rivero del Caz posted 11 for the hosts, while Miso Molina and Andrea Pecile (187-G-80, agency: World Sport Agency) added 10 each.
Ellis opened the game for the Spanish side as they however had the only lead in the opening quarter. Riga team replied immediately and had 19:11 at the end of the period. Latvian side enjoyed a 34:21 advantage late in the first half, only for the hosts to score the last eight points of the second quarter to trail 34:29.
Corey Brewer gave his team 44:34 in the middle of the third frame and Aleksic scored for 48:35. Cajasol mounted in a 14-0 run to remain alive for 49:48. Corey Brewer closed the third period for 49:49. Uvis Helmanis with a three gave the visitors 61:55 and Valters netted two for 64:60. Andrea Pecile pulled his team to 65:67 but Grafs's free throw sent ASK Riga to EuroCup regular season.

Cajasol: Rivero del Caz 11, Miso Molina 10, Andrea Pecile 10
ASK Riga: Bruno Sundov 19, Uvis Helmanis 16, Corey Brewer 9

CB Gran Canaria -Benetton Olympic 103:61
CB Gran Canaria thrashes Swiss representative in Qualifying Round 2. Game 2 saw demolition of Benetton Olympic that lost 103:61. Joel Freeland (208-F-87) led the Spanish squad with 19 points. Carl English (192-G-81, college: Hawaii) notched 16 and Daniel Kickert (208-C-83, college: St.Mary's, CA) scored 15. Dennis Harrison (201-F-79, college: Colorado) finished the night with 17 points for the visitors, whilst Fields added 12. CB Gran Canaria wins 195-125 on aggregate.
CB Gran Canaria is on top of their best years as the team shows great style in and out of the country. On Sunday the team climbed into first place in the ACB for the first time in club history. In the game versus Benetton Olympic the hosts started with 17-4 that led to 27:15 at the end of the first period. CB Gran Canaria enjoyed 52:29 at the halftime and could celebrate the qualification at that time.
A 26-18 in the third period lifted them up to 78:47 entering the final stanza. There was nothing the visitors could suggest for the hosts. Benetton Olympic had a good lesson and showed all they could, but the level was different in the court. CB Gran Canaria finished the last period at 25-14 and won the second game of the Qualifying Round 2.

CB Gran Canaria: Joel Freeland 19, Carl English 16, Daniel Kickert 15
Benetton Olympic: Dennis Harrison 17, Fields 12


Standings
Eurocup Standings
Group A
 1. Zadar 0-0 
 2. Marousi 0-0 
 3. Roanne 0-0 
Group B
 1. Dynamo M. 0-0 
 2. Barons/LMT 0-0 
 3. Lukoil A. 0-0 
Group C
 1. Upea 0-0 
 2. Khimky 0-0 
 3. Besiktas 0-0 
Group D
 1. Aris 0-0 
 2. Bnei Hasharon 0-0 
 3. T.Telekom 0-0 
Group E
 1. ASVEL 0-0 
 2. Lietuvos 0-0 
 3. Azovmash 0-0 
Group F
 1. Turow 0-0 
 2. Bamberg 0-0 
 3. Charleroi 0-0 
Group G
 1. Pamesa 0-0 
 2. Upim 0-0 
 3. Art.Dragons 0-0 
Group H
 1. Bilbao 0-0 
 2. Hemofarm 0-0 
 3. Nymburk 0-0 
Qualifying Round
 1. ASK Riga 0-0 
 2. Triumph 0-0 
 3. BC Kyiv 0-0 
 4. Gmunden 0-0 
 5. Unics 0-0 
 6. Galatasaray 0-0 
 7. En.Czarni 0-0 
 8. Oostende 0-0 
 9. Cholet 0-0 
 10. Crvena Zvez. 0-0 
 11. Benetton 0-0 
 12. Jerusalem 0-0 
 13. Amsterdam 0-0 
 14. Cajasol 0-0 
 15. TU/Rock 0-0 
 16. Ural Great 0-0 
 17. Le Havre 0-0 
 18. Panellinios 0-0 
 19. G.Canaria 0-0 
 20. Fribourg 0-0 
 21. Bonn 0-0 
 22. Siauliai 0-0 
 23. FMP 0-0 
 24. Buducnost 0-0 


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


Standings
Euroleague Standings
Group A
 1. Cibona 3-0 
 2. Maccabi T-A 2-1 
 3. Olympiakos 2-1 
 4. Unicaja 1-2 
 5. Air AV 1-2 
 6. Le Mans 0-3 
Group B
 1. Montepaschi 3-0 
 2. Prokom 2-1 
 3. Regal Barca 2-1 
 4. Panathinaikos 2-1 
 5. Zalgiris 0-3 
 6. Nancy 0-3 
Group C
 1. Tau 3-0 
 2. Lottomatica 2-1 
 3. Fener.Ulker 2-1 
 4. ALBA 1-2 
 5. DKV Joven. 1-2 
 6. Olimpija 0-3 
Group D
 1. CSKA 3-0 
 2. Efes Pilsen 2-1 
 3. Partizan 2-1 
 4. Panionios 1-2 
 5. Real Madrid 1-2 
 6. Armani MI 0-3 


CSKA's point guard Holden longer sidelined than expected - by Andrej Ljajic
CSKA Moscow point guard J.R. Holden (185-G-76, college: Bucknell), who will break the Euroleague games-played record for the decade soon after he returns to action, will be out longer than expected with his finger injury, the club website reported on Wednesday. Holden broke the little finger of his right shooting hand as CSKA beat Panionos on Telecoms on October 29. Holden recently returned from having surgery in the United States and predicts in Wednesday's story that he will be back to action in late December or early January. 'Hopefully in three or four weeks I will return to practices with the team and in six or seven weeks Id like to participate in the games,' Holden said. Doctors in the U.S. implanted four screws in the injured finger, he added. 'For an average person it would take from six to seven weeks for the recovery,' Holden said, 'but I am an athlete, so I hope to get back earlier. Next week here in Moscow we will take stitches out and I will start to get strength back in my finger.'

Yannakis: we have to stay alert - by Kostas Papadopoulos
Panagiotis Yannakis and Nikola Vujcic (211-C-78, agency: Interperformances) stated today their opinion about tomorrow's game for the Group A of Euroleague against Maccabi Tel Aviv, on the official site of the competition.
Firstly, the Reds' coach emphasized that 'we have learned to respect all opponents and this is what everybody in Olympiakos has in mind. Maccabi Tel Aviv is a team with great experience and tradition in the Euroleague, a team that always competes for the win. We have to stay alert and when you accomplish such a thing, the possibilities of losing are reduced. Our fans are expected to fill our home, just like they did on the night we hosted Unicaja Malaga; I am sure they will help us very much. Both the atmosphere they made and their patience in that game were the best thing they could do and they have to continue with the same attitude in tomorrow's game as well'.
On the other hand, Nikola Vujcic, who will face his ex-team for the first time officially, after the friendly game at Israel on October, admitted that 'we are facing Maccabi Tel Aviv in a totally different game than the friendly one we played on October. This time there is no emotional charge, but the necessity for the win from both sides. We have to control the rhythm of the game and not allow Maccabi to play its game, which means scoring more than 80 points. They play fast and they shoot early in the 24 seconds. On the other hand, we have to play our game knowing that our recent loss in Croatia doesn't mean anything by itself, while a possible win over Maccabi wouldn't mean the accomplishment of our goal, which is the first place in our group. What we have to keep in mind is not to lose a single game at our home'.

Trifunovic: Partizan is very dangerous - by Kostas Papadopoulos
Aleksandar Trifunovic and Branko Cvetkovic (200-G/F-84) stated today their opinion about tomorrow's game for the Group D of Euroleague against Partizan, on the official site of the competition.
Firstly, Panionios' coach admitted that 'we are facing a very experienced team with a great tradition in the Euroleague. Its roster not only consists of many young and talented players, that offer high energy, but there also players such as Milenko Tepic (198-G-87, agency: Beo Basket), Novica Velickovic (205-F-86) and Uros Tripkovic (196-G-86) with many games in the competition and the Serbian national team, who offer much experience. I would dare to say that these three players have more experience than most of my players. Our opponents come off two big victories, they have great confidence and definitely they are very dangerous. Since we compete at our home, our goal is to beat them, so we can fight for the best result in the Euroleague'.
On the other hand, Branko Cvetkovic expressed his better situation 'since I overcame the injury I had during the Greek League's game against Panathinaikos and now I am 100% ready to help my team. Partizan has been great so far, combining big victories in the Euroleague and the Adriatic League. They have a young roster, as far as I know the youngest in the competition. They play together and they fight hard as a team. If we want to beat them, the least we could do is to play like them, which means hard and seriously. Partizan may have not any big star, but they play as a team, so we have to control the rebounds and try to stop their fast break'.

Obradovic: On Thursday everything starts in our defense - by Kostas Papadopoulos
Zeljko Obradovic and Adrew Nicholas (191-G-81, college: Maryland) stated today their opinion about tomorrow's game for the Group B of Euroleague against Montepaschi Siena, on the official site of the competition.
Firstly, the Greens' coach emphasized that 'Montepaschi Siena plays very aggressively in defense and they are very aggressive in offense, too. During the summer they kept the majority of their players and made some really effective additions like Henry Domercant (192-G-80, college: E.Illinois) and Morris Finley (180-G-81, college: UAB). What I have seen in Montepaschi is that they have clear roles, which help them in performing at the highest level and target the Final Four. Even the players who remain in the court for only five minutes know what to do and this is important for every team. If we want to win, we have to play seriously, to have a good rhythm and show our quality in a full arena. On Thursday everything starts in our defense'.
On the other hand, Adrew Nicholas stated that 'during the last few years I have faced Montepaschi Siena many times both in the Euroleague and the Italian League, so I know what to expect. Obviously, they are the group leaders, as they are without defeat after three games. We want to take the highest possible place in our group, so we need to beat them on Thursday. One of the reasons why Siena is always at the highest level is because they have kept all the basic players exactly like CSKA Moscow and us, which makes them one of the most successful teams in Europe. My team is trying to accomplish the best possible balance on the court and honestly it wouldn't be normal to be in our best shape so early. We are progressing step by step and definitely the game against Siena is a very important one, since we need the victory'.

Tau suffers first defeat at home against Lottomatica: 90-93 - by Andrej Ljajic

Tau Ceramica Vitoria has suffered their first defeat of the Euroleague season at home against Lottomatica Virtus Roma . Roma kept controlling the game for 40 minutes by exploiting Tau's weakness ans slowness, especially on the defensive end. Sani Becirovic (195-G-81, agency: Beo Basket) led the guests with 23 points followed by Primoz Brezec (216-F/C-79) with 18 and Andre Hutson (202-F-79, college: Michigan St.) with 15 points. The most efficient for the home team was Igor Rakocevic (191-G-78) with 23 points followed by William McDonald (207-C-79, college: S.Florida) with 16 baskets and 8 boards.

Lottomatica ended the first quarter good by a score of 12-20 with a buzzer beating triple form William McDonald to end the first period. With the biggest lead in the game, 18-32, Lottomatica Virtus Roma kept on dominating the floor with Sani Becirovic and Andre Hutson. Dusko Ivanovic tried Sergi Vidal (198-F/G-81) on the point guard position which didn't affect the score. After putting Pablo Prigioni (186-G-77) back on the point guard position, Tau started to to find more open shots by making a good passing game. Lottomatica's double-digit lead was restored with Pablo Prigioni's buzzer beating triple from 9 meter. The difference was reduced to 39-49 at the end of the first half . In the third quarter both teams played full-throttled basketball with an high-tempo and hitting almost every shot. Tau went looking for the big man inside, Tiago Splitter (211-C/F-85, agency: Interperformances), but Lottomatica kept on dominating the score. The third quarter ended with a safe distance for Lottomatica Virtus Roma , 62-71.Both teams focused on defense at the beginning of the last quarter, knowing that a good start would grant the win. Mustafa Shakur (190-G-84, college: Arizona) was the first one to break the trend, scoring a layup-plus-foul that was followed by 3 free throws by Igor Rakocevic to get the hosts within 4. The pressure increased, but Andre Hutson and Ibrahim Jaaber (187-G-84, college: Pennsylvania) came to the rescue and earned the visitors some breathing room. A basket by Igor Rakocevic made it a 1-point game with three minutes to go, giving the fans a new reason to keep cheering. The lead moved between 1 and 3 points from then on, and game entered last minute with Roma leading 85-86. Andre Hutson scored a layup and Igor Rakocevic answered quickly, as Tau decided to foul Sani Becirovic with 25 seconds to go. He hit both, giving Roma a 3-point lead that forced Tau to take risks and look for a three. Mirza Teletovic (203-F-85, agency: Beo Basket) missed it and Roberto Gabini (198-F-75, agency: Interperformances) hit 2 free throws to seal the outcome for the guests. A late three by Pablo Prigioni didn't threaten Romas win, while Sani Becirovic capped his superb game with a last free throw in the last second for a 90-93 victory.

Tau Ceramica Vitoria: Igor Rakocevic 23, William McDonald 16 + 8 boards, Mirza Teletovic and Tiago Splitter 15

Lottomatica Virtus Roma : Sani Becirovic 23, Primoz Brezec 18, Andre Hutson 15



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


FINNISH CUP: ToPo and YMCA LPR are the Finalists - by Rauno Hurmalainen

Finnish Cup, Semi-Final: Finnish Cup Finalists are YMCA Lappeenranta and ToPo (Helsinki). Tonight ToPo visiting Karkkila and beating Team Componenta 79-88
(30-39). Quarters: 17-21, 13-18, 20-28, 29-21. ToPo was shooting much better and winning the rebounds 35-44. ToPo had five players in double figures. Eero Lehtinen (191-G-85) scored game high 22 pts. Timo Heinonen (198-F-81) added 17 and Isaac Spencer (198-F-78, agency: Tank Sports, college: Murray St.) 13 pts for ToPo. Frank Richards (188-G-82, college: Kansas St.) (TC) netted 21 pts and gave five assists. Martti Kuisma (205-C/F-70, college: Florida) was again in double figures (14), but Team Componenta was shooting treys only 15,0% (3/20). The Cup Final will be at Vantaa Energy Arena on December 14. YMCA Lappeenranta has won the Cup three times (2005, 2006, 2007) and Torpan Pojat four times (1980, 1992, 1996 and 1997).

Team Componenta - ToPo 79-88 (30-39) (Frank Richards 21/5a, Martti Kuisma 14, Clifton Jones 10/9 - Eero Lehtinen 22, Timo Heinonen 17, Isaac Spencer 13).



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


Liege topple Vichy to reach EuroChallenge regular season - by Eurobasket News
Vichy - Liege 77:80

Liege held off Vichy in France to secure their EuroChallenge regular season birth. Vichy had to overcome a 7-point first-game deficit but were unable to deliver the needed result. And the hosts looked en route to a big success in the first stanza. Kareem Reid (178-G-75, college: Arkansas), Gradit and Moss allowed the home side to accumulate a 5-point advantage at the first break. Moss marked the 7-point lead for Vichy as he opened the second quarter with a layup. But Liege recovered late in the half. Will Thomas (201-F-86, agency: Interperformances), Christopher Hill (191-G-83, college: Michigan St.) and Wilson teamed up for 10 straight points for Liege as they grabbed a 36:31 advantage at halftime. Will Thomas and Justin Cage (198-F-85, agency: Elfus-Siegel Management (ESM), college: Xavier) extended the lead to 7 points before Christopher Hill knocked down a timely three-pointer to give Liege a 10-point advantage. Vichy looked stunned and Liege easily maintained a 10-point buffer heading into the fourth quarter. Alexis Rambur (195-G-83) stepped up for Vichy with some important buckets and the French team regained the lead at 72:70. However Justin Cage, Wilson and Jerald Fields (201-F-82, agency: Edge Sports, college: E.Tenn.St.) ensured the win for Liege at the end.
Christopher Hill topscored with 17 points for the visitors. Justin Cage added 15 points, while Will Thomas had 12 points and 10 boards for the winners. David Melody (184-G-77) answered with 16 points for Vichy. Kareem Reid knocked down 13 points in the loss.

Vichy: David Melody 16, Kareem Reid 13
Liege: Christopher Hill 17, Justin Cage 15, Will Thomas 12+10 boards

Le Havre stops Base BC Oostende - by Eurobasket News
Base BC Oostende - STB Le Havre 83:88

Le Havre stops Base BC Oostende to seal a place in the EuroCup. Belgian team made lots of loud wins in the Qualifying Round, but would have to admit the loss from Le Havre in Game 2 and on aggregate. T.J. Thompson (177-G-82, agency: SportsTalent, college: George Washington) led the French team to 88:83 win in Belgium with 19 points and 6 assists. Romain Duport (217-C-86) followed him with 16 points and Aleksandar Bojic (207-C-81, agency: Court Side, college: Hawaii-Pacific) added 15. Rashid Atkins (182-G-75, agency: Interperformances, college: St.Joseph's) ended up with 15 in defeat, while Matt Haryasz (210-C-84, agency: Octagon, college: Stanford) and Nick Fazekas (211-F-85, agency: Beo Basket, college: Nevada) produced 14 each. Le Havre wins 172-168 as a total of two games.
Base BC Oostende surprised not only the Russian team but the French outfit in Game 1 as well. Nick Fazekas gave his team 4-0 run as the hosts proved their ambitions. Green nailed two at the end of the first for 21:17. Even after 20-22 in the second frame the hosts had 41:39 at the halftime.
Merriex tied the game at 60:60 and T.J. Thompson brought the visitors 67:64 at the end of the third frame. Rimac extended the lead to 80:72 but Base BC Oostende were too far to give up. Rashid Atkins closed an 8-0 run for 80:80 with 01.18 to play. STB Le Havre however used the same run and T.J. Thompson closed it at 88:80, while Paunic's three set up the final, 88:83.

Base BC Oostende: Rashid Atkins 15, Matt Haryasz 14, Nick Fazekas 14
STB Le Havre: T.J. Thompson 19+6 ast, Romain Duport 16, Aleksandar Bojic 15

Limoges signs 2 players - by Gregory Caru
Whereas the club wanted to come back in Pro A this season,the team has missed the beginning of her season because of injuries and bad recruiting.So CSP has decided to sign 2 players.
*Yassin IDBIHI,Center,a big man with good moves inside who played last year in Koeln(GER) for 10,9ppg 5,5rpg in 24 games with a participation in ULEB cup(10ppg 3,2rpg in 11 games)and he started his season with this team.
*Xane D'ALMEIDA,Guard,who has made all his career in Pau-Orthez(pro a )last year he posted 2,1ppg 1,4 apg in 25 games but he has never demonstrated his capacity to drive his team on high level.
With this 2 men,Limoges doesn't preserve Drew Lavender.A good choice for another team in France in my opinion...
Yassin Idbihi (208-F-83, college: Buffalo)Xane D'Almeida (183-G-83)

Nancy celebrates the first Euroleague win - by Eurobasket News
SLUC Nancy - Zalgiris 69-64

It was a game between two winless teams after 3 games in Group B. SLUC Nancy made it mostly owing to Lamayne Wilson (204-F-80, college: Troy) and Ricardo Greer (197-F/G-78, college: Pittsburgh), which were on a high level. Wilson drained 17 while Ricardo Greer added 16 points and 7 rebounds. Jeff Greer (196-G/F-79, college: Rutgers) helped Nancy netting 11 points. Zalgiris faced with fourth consecutive defeat and in the next round it will host powerful Regal Barcelona. Dainius Salenga (197-F-77) scored 15 and dished out 6 assists. Paulius Jankunas (203-F-84, agency: Interperformances) and Jonas Maciulis (198-G/F-85, agency: Interperformances) netted 13 points apiece.
Nancy was a better team from the beginning. Jeff Greer, Victor Samnick (203-F-79, college: Georgetown) and John Cox (195-G-81, college: USF) led the hosts to 17-9. Zalgiris immediately answered closing the gap on 22-17. During the second frame Nancy extended lead to 6 after basket by Steed Tchicamboud (193-G-81). Loren Woods (213-C-78, agency: Arik Krayn Services, college: Arizona) made it for Zalgiris setting the score on 38-34 at the half time. Third quarter was the crucial one as Nancy ended it with 13-0 run for 58-42. Paulius Jankunas gave some hope to Zalgiris in the last frame coming on 66-62 with less than two minutes to go. Lamayne Wilson made a triple after time-out keeping Nancy in charge until the end.

SLUC Nancy: Lamayne Wilson 17, Ricardo Greer 16+7 boards, Jeff Greer 11
Zalgiris: Dainius Salenga 15+4 boards+6 as, Paulius Jankunas 13+5 boards, Jonas Maciulis 13

Ploiesti beat Toulon, fail to advance - by Eurobasket News
Ploiesti - Toulon 77:67

Romanian CSU Ploiesti defeated Toulon in the return leg of their EuroChallenege second qualifying round match-up. The win however was tasteless as Ploiesti failed to overcame a massive 26-point deficit after the game in France.
The lead changed hands several times in the opening term before Darius Hargrove (193-G-82, agency: Global Sports Plaza, college: Virginia Union) tied it all 24 at the end. Darius Hargrove then opened the second term with a three-pointer and Arvydas Cepulis (195-G-79) added another one as Ploiesti grabbed a 32:26 lead. However Vincent Masingue (205-F/C-76), Nichols and Dontaye Draper (180-G-84, college: Charleston) kept Toulon close and the visitors trailed by just 8 points at halftime. Burlacu and Darius Hargrove gave the home team hope as they extended the margin to 15 points early in the third stanza. Rashard Griffith (212-C-74, agency: Edge Sports, college: Wisconsin) scored a layup and Ploiesti got closer to the task leading 53:36 midway through the third frame. Darius Hargrove and Zoran Osmokrovic (189-G-81, agency: Beo Basket) crowned the frame with consecutive buckets and Ploiesti entered the fourth quarter with a 17-point cushion. Zoran Osmokrovic and Arvydas Cepulis stretched the gap to 20 points at the start of the fourth quarter but it was the biggest advantage Ploiesti could build yesterday. Vincent Masingue, Moustapha Sonko (192-G-72) and Pierre Pierce (193-G-83, college: Iowa) cut the distance to 17 points and later Dontaye Draper came up with 7 points late in the game to seal the winning outcome for Toulon on aggregate.
Vincent Masingue scored 17 points and pulled down 9 rebounds for Toulon. Dontaye Draper added 16 points and 6 rebounds for the French side. Darius Hargrove paced Ploiesti with 20 points. Arvydas Cepulis finished with 12 points in the victory.

Ploiesti: Darius Hargrove 20, Arvydas Cepulis 12
Toulon: Vincent Masingue 17, Dontaye Draper 16

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


Eiffeltowers secure victory over Amak in EuroChallenge - by Eurobasket News
Amak - Eiffeltowers 64:72

Dutch Eiffeltowers secured a comfortable victory over Macedonian Amak in the return leg of their EuroChallenge second qualifying round series. Eiffeltowers entered the game with a confident 28-point advantage. David Jackson (195-G-78, agency: Edge Sports, college: Oregon) and Jerome Beasley (209-F-80, college: N.Dakota) fired five straight points midway though the first term and the visitors built a 21:14 lead. Marcel Aarts (213-C-83, agency: R.H.Consultancy) and Devonne Giles (203-F-83, college: Texas Tech) maintained the winning tempo for Eiffeltowers as they enjoyed a 27:16 lead at the first break. Devonne Giles scored the first six points for Eiffeltowers as they kept in front in the second term. Richardson capped the first half and the visitors piled up a 37:28 advantage at halftime.
Amak never rebounded in the third quarter. Marcel Aarts, Devonne Giles, David Jackson and Oliver stretched the margin to 18 points. Vojdan Stojanovski (194-G-87) and Jarrid Frye (190-G-85, agency: CAA Sports, college: Sacred Heart) cut the deficit to 13 points early in the fourth term but Amak failed to capitalize on the rally. Jos Frederiks (194-F/G-76, agency: Court Side) and Devonne Giles kept Eiffeltowers in front and sealed the winning outcome at the end.
Devonne Giles finished the game with 18 points for Eiffeltowers. David Jackson and Jerome Beasley scored 10 points each in the win. Jarrid Frye answered with 18 points for Amak. Slobodan Agoc (206-C-77, agency: 011 Sports) delivered 16 points in the losing effort.
Amac outrebounded their opponents 32:26 but committed 18 turnovers. The hosts also shot only 45% from the charity stripe.

Amak: Jarrid Frye 18, Slobodan Agoc 16
Eiffeltowers: Devonne Giles 18, David Jackson 10, Jerome Beasley 10

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


Derrick Allen sends Skyliners to EuroChallenge regular season - by Eurobasket News
Antalya - Skyliners 65:67

Derrick Allen (203-F-80, agency: Pro One Sports, college: Mississippi) nailed a buzzer-beating jump shot winning a dramatic game for Skyliners in Turkey. The Frankfurt outfit took on Antalya away from home after the home 60:60 tie. It was the winner takes it all game for both sides and it lived up to the highest expectations.
King nailed six early points for the visitors as they cleared off to a 17:6 distance. Akin capped the first frame with two free throws and Antalya trailed 8:17 at the first break. Dominik Bahiense de Mello (190-G-85) drained back-to-back trebles for Skyliners as they pulled ahead for a 25:13 lead midway through the second term. Michael Green (185-G-85, college: Towson) and Cemal Bayraktar (184-G-82) managed to cut the distance late in the half and Antalya were behind by 9 points at the interval. Ersin Gorkem (195-F-77) nailed 9 points in the third frame and Antalya came as close as 3 points with one quarter to go. Marcus Douthit (211-F/C-80, agency: Passing Lane, college: Providence) and Ersin Gorkem dragged the hosts within one point from Skyliners early in the fourth period. Three-pointers from Dominik Bahiense de Mello and Ilian Evtimov (201-F-83, agency: Interperformances, college: N.Carolina St.) allowed Skyliners to jump to a 4-point advantage. But Michael Green and Marcus Douthit converted layups for Antalya and drew things level at 62 with just over 2 minutes remaining. Ersin Gorkem netted a free throw to put Antalya ahead. Pascal Roller (180-G-76) answered with a three-point play for Skyliners to regain the lead for the German side 65:63. Antalya refused to fold and Michael Green tied things up at 65 with 26 seconds remaining. But the time remaining was just enough for Skyliners to save the game. Derrick Allen notched a buzzer-beating jumper and Skyliners got away with a narrow victory.
Ilian Evtimov knocked down 16 points for Skyliners. Konrad Wysocki (202-F-82, agency: Pro One Sports, college: Princeton) added 12 points and 10 boards, while Dominik Bahiense de Mello contributed 11 points in the win. Marcus Douthit answered with 16 points and 11 boards for Antalya. Ersin Gorkem had 16 points in the loss.

Antalya: Marcus Douthit 16+11 boards, Ersin Gorkem 16
Skyliners: Ilian Evtimov 16, Konrad Wysocki 12+10 boards, Dominik Bahiense de Mello 11

EWE Oldenburg sneak past Borac Nektar - by Eurobasket News
Borac Nektar - EWE Basket 74:74

EWE Basket Oldenburg secured a 74:74 draw in Bosnia to overcome Borac Nektar in the EuroChallenge second qualifying round. Borac Nektar lost the opening game by 30 points and had vague chances before the return leg. And the miracle did not happen as EWE Basket easily secured a positive result at the end. Borac Nektar scored the first four points of the game however it was a short success for the hosts. Oldenburg answered with 9 straight points to jump ahead. Borac refused to fold that early and capped the starting frame with a 10:0 run that allowed them to enjoy a 19:14 advantage. Puljko nailed a three-pointer at the start of the second term and Borac led by 8 points. The hosts widened the margin to 10 points at halftime. Donta Richardson (188-G-81, college: Wyoming) scored 5 straight points early in the third frame and Borac jumped to a 15-point cushion. But two trebles from Je'Kel Foster (191-G-83, agency: Court Side, college: Ohio St.) chilled out the Bosnian team a bit. Borac still had a chance as they were up by 13 points before the fourth quarter. However it was as far as Borac could clear off. Majstrovic, Marko Scekic (207-F-81, agency: Agency No 10) and Rickey Paulding (196-G-82, agency: Pro One Sports, college: Missouri) fueled a comeback effort from the visitors as they narrowed the gap. Three straight treys from Rickey Paulding and Je'Kel Foster allowed Oldenburg to coma as close as one point with 47 seconds remaining. Omari Peterkin (204-F/C-83, college: Boston U.) converted a freebie but Je'Kel Foster tapped the ball in to knot things up at 74 at the end.
Je'Kel Foster paced the visitors with 19 points. Rickey Paulding added 16 points, while Marko Scekic and Jason Gardner (178-G-80, agency: Interperformances, college: Arizona) had 11 points each for Oldenburg. Omari Peterkin and Josko Garma (206-F-81, agency: Agency No 10) replied with 14 points apiece for Borac Nektar.

Borac Nektar: Omari Peterkin 14, Josko Garma 14
EWE Basket: Je'Kel Foster 19, Rickey Paulding 16, Marko Scekic 11, Jason Gardner 11

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


Yannakis: we have to stay alert - by Kostas Papadopoulos
Panagiotis Yannakis and Nikola Vujcic (211-C-78, agency: Interperformances) stated today their opinion about tomorrow's game for the Group A of Euroleague against Maccabi Tel Aviv, on the official site of the competition.
Firstly, the Reds' coach emphasized that 'we have learned to respect all opponents and this is what everybody in Olympiakos has in mind. Maccabi Tel Aviv is a team with great experience and tradition in the Euroleague, a team that always competes for the win. We have to stay alert and when you accomplish such a thing, the possibilities of losing are reduced. Our fans are expected to fill our home, just like they did on the night we hosted Unicaja Malaga; I am sure they will help us very much. Both the atmosphere they made and their patience in that game were the best thing they could do and they have to continue with the same attitude in tomorrow's game as well'.
On the other hand, Nikola Vujcic, who will face his ex-team for the first time officially, after the friendly game at Israel on October, admitted that 'we are facing Maccabi Tel Aviv in a totally different game than the friendly one we played on October. This time there is no emotional charge, but the necessity for the win from both sides. We have to control the rhythm of the game and not allow Maccabi to play its game, which means scoring more than 80 points. They play fast and they shoot early in the 24 seconds. On the other hand, we have to play our game knowing that our recent loss in Croatia doesn't mean anything by itself, while a possible win over Maccabi wouldn't mean the accomplishment of our goal, which is the first place in our group. What we have to keep in mind is not to lose a single game at our home'.

Obradovic: On Thursday everything starts in our defense - by Kostas Papadopoulos
Zeljko Obradovic and Adrew Nicholas (191-G-81, college: Maryland) stated today their opinion about tomorrow's game for the Group B of Euroleague against Montepaschi Siena, on the official site of the competition.
Firstly, the Greens' coach emphasized that 'Montepaschi Siena plays very aggressively in defense and they are very aggressive in offense, too. During the summer they kept the majority of their players and made some really effective additions like Henry Domercant (192-G-80, college: E.Illinois) and Morris Finley (180-G-81, college: UAB). What I have seen in Montepaschi is that they have clear roles, which help them in performing at the highest level and target the Final Four. Even the players who remain in the court for only five minutes know what to do and this is important for every team. If we want to win, we have to play seriously, to have a good rhythm and show our quality in a full arena. On Thursday everything starts in our defense'.
On the other hand, Adrew Nicholas stated that 'during the last few years I have faced Montepaschi Siena many times both in the Euroleague and the Italian League, so I know what to expect. Obviously, they are the group leaders, as they are without defeat after three games. We want to take the highest possible place in our group, so we need to beat them on Thursday. One of the reasons why Siena is always at the highest level is because they have kept all the basic players exactly like CSKA Moscow and us, which makes them one of the most successful teams in Europe. My team is trying to accomplish the best possible balance on the court and honestly it wouldn't be normal to be in our best shape so early. We are progressing step by step and definitely the game against Siena is a very important one, since we need the victory'.

Trifunovic: Partizan is very dangerous - by Kostas Papadopoulos
Aleksandar Trifunovic and Branko Cvetkovic (200-G/F-84) stated today their opinion about tomorrow's game for the Group D of Euroleague against Partizan, on the official site of the competition.
Firstly, Panionios' coach admitted that 'we are facing a very experienced team with a great tradition in the Euroleague. Its roster not only consists of many young and talented players, that offer high energy, but there also players such as Milenko Tepic (198-G-87, agency: Beo Basket), Novica Velickovic (205-F-86) and Uros Tripkovic (196-G-86) with many games in the competition and the Serbian national team, who offer much experience. I would dare to say that these three players have more experience than most of my players. Our opponents come off two big victories, they have great confidence and definitely they are very dangerous. Since we compete at our home, our goal is to beat them, so we can fight for the best result in the Euroleague'.
On the other hand, Branko Cvetkovic expressed his better situation 'since I overcame the injury I had during the Greek League's game against Panathinaikos and now I am 100% ready to help my team. Partizan has been great so far, combining big victories in the Euroleague and the Adriatic League. They have a young roster, as far as I know the youngest in the competition. They play together and they fight hard as a team. If we want to beat them, the least we could do is to play like them, which means hard and seriously. Partizan may have not any big star, but they play as a team, so we have to control the rebounds and try to stop their fast break'.

Greek Market News - by Simon Varvakis
Greek Market News

AS AS Trikalla 2000 2000 under the guidance of Giannis Christopoulos decided to waive Jelani Gardner (198-G-75, college: Pepperdine) and in his place they signed shooting guard Nikos Pettas (195-G-81). Jelani Gardner has a bosman passport but he didn't help Trikala to the extent they were hoping for. Nikos Pettas is an experienced guard that has played in numerous greek teams.

AEL 1964 has agreed financial terms with Nestor Nestor Kommatos (203-F-77) (203-F-77). Nestor Kommatos was going to sign this summer with AS Trikalla 2000 and had offers from a few greek teams but he didn't pass his medical tests so he stayed out of action. The last 2 years he played for AEK.

ESTIA Egaleoagreed terms and signed irish/american shooting guard Donnie McGrath (193-G-84, college: Providence). He is a member of the National Team of Ireland and was lured into playing for ESTIA Egaleo by Keydren Clark (173-G-84, college: St.Peter's) and Chris Bracey (198-F-80, college: W.Texas A&M). Chris Bracey is also a member of the National Team of Ireland and currently a player for ESTIA Egaleo.

Valencia cut off its contract with Dikoudis - by Kostas Papadopoulos
Dimos Dikoudis (207-F/C-77, agency: Court Side) seems to be a past for the team of Pamesa Valencia since the president's, Manuel Lloretes, decision to except him from the team indefinitely will have as a conclusion the interruption of the Greek forward's contract.
Concerning the reasons for this situation, the first one, and probably the main, is the statement made by Dimos Dikoudis in favour of the ex-coach, Fotis Katsikaris, when the Greek coach was fired last week; the final reason, though, was the fact that the Greek player, after the end of Friday's game against Granada, asked the assistant coach, and temporarily head coach, Jesus Mulero for some explanations for his not attendance at the game. Jesus Mulero's answer did not satisfy Dimos Dikoudis, who, then and according to the publication, left, striking the door of the lockers room, while, afterwards, an intense discussion followed with a member of Pamesa's administration.
Besides, to everything referred, it should be mentioned that Neven Spahija , who is rumoured to be the next coach of Valencia, asked Lloretes about adding a center in the roster of the team, stating at the same time that he has one power forward in excess (Dimos Dikoudis?)

Panellinios escapes from the capital of Ukraine - by Eurobasket News
BC Kyiv - Panellinios 96:72

The capital of Ukraine with 2000 spectators present at the EuroCup Qualifying Round 2 campaign saw a real battle of local BC Kyiv against Panellinios. The Greek side survived in the second game and managed to advance to the regular season. BC Kyiv nearly came back from a 27-point first-leg defeat but posted 96:72 victory. Scoonie Penn (178-G-77, college: Ohio St.) led the winners with 25 points. Manuchar Markoishvili (195-G-86) netted 22, while Brent Wright (203-F/C-78, college: Florida) and Alex Scales (192-G-78, college: Oregon) added 15 each. Manolis Papamakarios (190-G-80) ended up with 15 points in defeat, whilst Anthony Grundy (189-G-79, agency: Strategic Sports, college: N.Carolina St.) and Giorgos Kalaitzis (195-G-76) scored 14 apiece. By prevailing 168-165 on aggregate, the Greek team progressed to the EuroCup.
BC Kyiv opened the game as if they had to and produced 31:13 in the opening quarter. Panellinios replied with 19-11 in the second period to reduce the gap at the halftime. Scoonie Penn's free throw was the last in the second frame for 42:32.
Even though Kyiv team had another run, Panellinios closed the gap again to 10 in the contest at 60:50 by the end of the third quarter. Brent Wright connected from long range to start a 15-0 run for Kyiv which gave them an 82:59 advantage. Alex Scales posted two for 87:65 with less than a minute to play. Manuchar Markoishvili's lay-up brought 93:72 and Jeretin closed the game at 96:72. Greek side prevailing 168-165 on aggregate progressed to the EuroCup.

BC Kyiv: Scoonie Penn 25, Manuchar Markoishvili 22, Brent Wright 15, Alex Scales 15
Panellinios: Manolis Papamakarios 15, Anthony Grundy 14, Giorgos Kalaitzis 14

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


Eiffeltowers secure victory over Amak in EuroChallenge - by Eurobasket News
Amak - Eiffeltowers 64:72

Dutch Eiffeltowers secured a comfortable victory over Macedonian Amak in the return leg of their EuroChallenge second qualifying round series. Eiffeltowers entered the game with a confident 28-point advantage. David Jackson (195-G-78, agency: Edge Sports, college: Oregon) and Jerome Beasley (209-F-80, college: N.Dakota) fired five straight points midway though the first term and the visitors built a 21:14 lead. Marcel Aarts (213-C-83, agency: R.H.Consultancy) and Devonne Giles (203-F-83, college: Texas Tech) maintained the winning tempo for Eiffeltowers as they enjoyed a 27:16 lead at the first break. Devonne Giles scored the first six points for Eiffeltowers as they kept in front in the second term. Richardson capped the first half and the visitors piled up a 37:28 advantage at halftime.
Amak never rebounded in the third quarter. Marcel Aarts, Devonne Giles, David Jackson and Oliver stretched the margin to 18 points. Vojdan Stojanovski (194-G-87) and Jarrid Frye (190-G-85, agency: CAA Sports, college: Sacred Heart) cut the deficit to 13 points early in the fourth term but Amak failed to capitalize on the rally. Jos Frederiks (194-F/G-76, agency: Court Side) and Devonne Giles kept Eiffeltowers in front and sealed the winning outcome at the end.
Devonne Giles finished the game with 18 points for Eiffeltowers. David Jackson and Jerome Beasley scored 10 points each in the win. Jarrid Frye answered with 18 points for Amak. Slobodan Agoc (206-C-77, agency: 011 Sports) delivered 16 points in the losing effort.
Amac outrebounded their opponents 32:26 but committed 18 turnovers. The hosts also shot only 45% from the charity stripe.

Amak: Jarrid Frye 18, Slobodan Agoc 16
Eiffeltowers: Devonne Giles 18, David Jackson 10, Jerome Beasley 10

No contract for Thomas Soltau - by Fred Roggen
The technical staff of the West-Brabant Giants waives the services of the Danish forward Thomas Soltau (210-F-82, agency: Court Side, college: Northwestern). The player was recently on trial at the Giants, but has not been able to convince, Soltau played two games for the West-Brabant Giants and averaged 2.5ppg and 1.5rpg. Therefore, the Giants did not offered him a contract for the current season. The Giants are now looking for a replacement.

Brandon Griffin sacked after positive test - by Fred Roggen
Brandon Griffin (202-F-82, agency: R.H.Consultancy, college: SE Missouri St.) has been dismissed by the West-Brabant Giants after a positive doping test for use of cannabis, a product that is on the list of banned substances. Griffin, who played previously for Omniworld Almere and Eiffeltowers Den Bosch, has informed the governing board of the club himself.
The governing board of West-Brabant Giants has dissolved immediately the contract with Brandon Griffin after the news. Griffin has played nine games for the Giants and averaged 10.7ppg and 7.9rpg.

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


MONTHLY PLAYER AWARDS - by Ozell Wells
The opening set of players awards have been announced in the Nivea For Mens SuperLeague and Basketball Irelands Womens SuperLeague.
DART Killester Guard John Behan (193-G-85) has been named the Nivea For Mens SuperLeague North Conference Player of the Month for October after helping his side to a 100% record during this period.
Behan has been in inspirational form for Mark Keenans side with his all round displays and showed his brilliance in DARTs big comeback against Limerick Lions in October.
Behan has averaged just under 13 points per game, during which he hit an impressive tally of 10 three pointers in five games. In their recent clash with DCU Saints, he netted 18 points in another important victory.
I am delighted to get the award and its a great start to the season but more importantly my club are playing well, said Behan. This award is for all the players.

Irish international Colin O'Reilly (197-F-84, college: Post) has landed the Nivea For Mens SuperLeague South Conference Player of the Month for October after a string of superb display for UCC Demons.
OReilly is plying his trade with the Cork giants since leaving Europe after his club in Iceland were forced to release their professional players due to the financial crisis in the country.
OReilly has enjoyed an impressive average of 26 points per game and Head Coach Douglas Leichner is hoping to keep a hold of his prize asset.
'Colin O'Reilly has been a tremendous addition to Demons', said Demons Head Coach Douglas Leichner. He has contributed more than we expected he would.
We would love to have him for the end of the season, he added. We want what is best for Colin and we believe that is by staying at Demons until the end of the season.

Meanwhile, DCU Mercys Mary Fox (183-F-83) has been named Basketball Ireland Womens SuperLeague Player of the Month for October.
Fox has followed on from a superb international campaign with a number of consistent displays for Mercy.
The Guard has averaged 18 points per game and nine rebounds per game as well as a 73% record from the three point line.

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


National League Round: 5 (Regular Season) - by Eurobasket News
Macc.Ashdod - Hap.Afula 84-80
Maccabi Ashdod opened Round 5 with a win over Hap.Afula 84:80. Brewington Dwight led the winners with 22 points and 6 rebounds. Haris Andre ended up with 19 points and 4 boards in the losing effort.

Benyamina - Elitzur Ramla 88-100
Elitzur Ramla improved to 5-0 on top after a road win over Benyamina 88:100. Peterson Damon was unstoppable with 29 points and 10 boards, while Rubinstein Lior added 19. Shmidt Omer posted 29 points for the home side.

Bar.Netanya - Elitzur Yavne 109-81
Netanya looks also from the throne with 5-0 record after a home win over Elitzur Yavne 109:81. Five players cored more than 10 points for the winners as Weinstein Shawn led all of them with 22 points. Ben Goren Or produced 20 points in defeat.

Lev Hashar. - Hap.Beeri 61-71
Jackson Cedric paced Beeri with 29 points and 11 rebounds over Lev Hasharon for the second win in the league. His team had a road 61:71 victory as Cohen Itay added 16 points. Auter Adrian collected 21 points and 14 boards in defeat.

Megido/Yok. - Hap.Tivon 88-95
Megido lost at home to Hapoel Tivon 88:95. Williams Jamal top-scored for the hosts with 27 points and 7 rebounds. Seven players however reached double digits for the guests as Yasu Shlomo led all of them with 26 points.

Kohav Yair - Ironi N-Ziona 70-80
Kohav Yair was defeated at home by Ironi N-Ziona 70:80. Zagury Eilon finished the night with 24 points and 7 boards for the winners. Morgan Stacey brought 22 points for the home side.

Hod Hasharon - Natzrath Elite 75-65
Hod Hasharon stun Natzrath Elite 75:65 as Hamilton Blake notched 19 points and made 8 boards for the winners. Digmel Ofer ended up with 28 points in the losing effort.



Hapoel Jerusalem wins, Unics advances - by Eurobasket News
Hapoel Jerusalem -Unics 76:73

Hapoel Jerusalem wins the second game of the EuroCup Qualifying Round 2, however Unics advances to the regular season. After 88:66 in the first game Unics did not mind giving the second game to the Israeli team, 76:73. Timothy Bowers (188-G-82, college: Mississippi St.) paced all the winners with 16 points. Yuval Naimy (185-G/F-86) and Travis Watson (203-F/C-81, college: Virginia) followed him with 12 points as Hapoel Jerusalem will concentrate now on the local league. Terrell Lyday (190-G-79, college: BYU) top-scored for the Russian team with 17 points and Kresimir Loncar (210-F-83) added 14. Unics wins 161-142 on aggregate.
Hapoel led by as many as 10 points in the first quarter but were never able to seriously threaten Unics. Yuval Naimy closed the opening period with 25:18. In the second quarter Sneed brought the hosts 40:30, however Terrell Lyday reduced to 41:35 at the halftime.
Unics opened the third period with 8-3 run and tied the game at 43:43. The Russian squad felt more confident in the court and had 56:54 entering the last stanza. Three times in the last frame the score was tied with the last one at 69:69. Kresimir Loncar made it 73:70 for their last points in the game, but Hapoel finished with 6-0 to take 76:73 win.

Hapoel Jerusalem: Timothy Bowers 16, Yuval Naimy 12, Travis Watson 12
Unics: Terrell Lyday 17, Kresimir Loncar 14

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


Crabs Rimini changes coach - by Gianni Pascucci

Lega 2 team Basket Rimini Crabs announced yesterday that veteran Giancarlo Sacco is the new head coach of the team. He replaces Massimo Galli , who has been fired in consequence of the poor performing of the team in last games.



Tau is undefeated no more, Lottomatica makes it in Spain - by Eurobasket News
Tau Ceramica - Lottomatica Roma 90-93

Tau Ceramica was trying to stay undefeated after 4th round, but they ran into a very inspired Lottomatica team tonight. Lottomatica came into Vitoria confident, and took a lead from the opening tip-off. Lottomatica's strong defense and good shooting beyond the arc (7-18) gave them a 10-point cushion for most of the game. During the second quarter Lottomatica had a 14-point lead, and ended the half up by 10 points (49-39), despite a 9-meter banked three-pointer by Pablo Prigioni (186-G-77) as the time was expiring. Third quarter didn't bring much change, while Tau was searching for the right team on the floor. Lottomatica's lead was only challenged in the fourth quarter when Tau tried to make a late come back. With 21 second half points, Igor Rakocevic (191-G-78), Euroleague leading scorer, brought Tau within 1 point with 3 minutes to go. However, Lottomatica's Sani Becirovic (195-G-81, agency: Beo Basket), who was calm the whole evening made 2 clutch free throws 25 seconds left in the game. Sani Becirovic was 11-12 from the free throw line, and had 23 points for the game. Sani was helped by his country mate from Slovenia, Primoz Brezec (216-F/C-79), who delivered 18 points and grabbed 4 rebounds. Andre Hutson (202-F-79, college: Michigan St.) also played an important part of this road victory for Lottomatica with 15 points and 4 boards. Rakocevic ended the game with 23 points, and received help from William McDonald (207-C-79, college: S.Florida) who added 16 points and 8 boards.
Tau's loss leaves both teams on top of their group C with 3-1 score. They could be joined by Fenerbahce Ulker (currently 2-1) who plays on Thursday night against Union Olimpija at home.

Tau Ceramica: Igor Rakocevic 23, William McDonald 16+8 boards, Mirza Teletovic (203-F-85, agency: Beo Basket) 15+4 boards.
Lottomatica Roma: Sani Becirovic 23, Primoz Brezec 18+4 boards, Andre Hutson 15+4 boards

Omar Thomas signs with Solsonica Rieti - by Interperformances
6'6' forward Omar Thomas (197-F-82, agency: Interperformances, college: UTEP) has signed for the rest of the season with Solsonica Rieti in the Italian SerieA. Omar, who arrived today in Italy, should play next sunday against Virtus Bologna. Better known with his nickname 'O.T.', he has good tactical skills and is a hard worker with a team mentality which is appreciated by his coaches and teammates. Omar has already experience in Italy where he played two years with the Rimini Crabs (2006/08) in LegaDue. He started this season with Elan Bearnais Pau-Orthez in French ProA League.

*****************************************************
  IVORY COAST   


FIBA Africa Zone-3 Qualifiers: Nigerian team seeded - by Olusegun Ikuesan


FIBA Africa Zone-3 Qualifiers: ASPAC, Pillars in good start - by Olusegun Ikuesan


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


LBAL Standings
LBAL Standings
Austrumi
 1. Lielvarde 4-0 
 2. Pargauja 3-1 
 3. Salacgriva 3-1 
 4. DU/Swedbank 2-2 
 5. Madona 2-2 
 6. Jekabpils 1-3 
 7. Sigulda 1-3 
 8. Gulbene 0-4 
Centrs A
 1. Livu akvaparks 5-0 
 2. Saulkrasti 3-1 
 3. Ogre/Sonora 1-1 
 4. Ridzene M. 1-2 
 5. LU 1-2 
 6. VIA Riga 1-3 
 7. Ridzene 90 0-3 
Centrs B
 1. Turiba 4-1 
 2. BJSS Keizar. 4-1 
 3. Juramalas SS 3-1 
 4. VEF Riga 3-3 
 5. Kursa/MRU 2-1 
 6. Ogre/LDz 2-2 
 7. Ridzene 91 1-3 
 8. 3.BJSS 1-4 
 9. DSN 0-4 
Rietumi
 1. Perkons 3-0 
 2. Dartija 3-0 
 3. Bauska 3-2 
 4. Variants 2-1 
 5. Olaine 2-3 
 6. Saldus-2 2-3 
 7. Talsi 1-1 
 8. Kuldiga 1-3 
 9. Tukums 0-4 


ASK Riga defeats Cajasol in Game 2 as well - by Eurobasket News
Cajasol-ASK Riga 65:68

Latvian ASK Riga will represent the country in EuroCup regular season. The team had a road win in Spain in Game 2 of their EuroCup Qualifying Round 2 to advance to the next stage. Cajasol lost the second game 65:68 and was defeated 134:151 on aggregate. Bruno Sundov (218-C-80) led the winners with 19 points in Game 2. Uvis Helmanis (204-F-72, agency: Stanley International) nailed 16 and Corey Brewer (188-G-75, college: Oklahoma) posted 9. Rivero del Caz posted 11 for the hosts, while Miso Molina and Andrea Pecile (187-G-80, agency: World Sport Agency) added 10 each.
Ellis opened the game for the Spanish side as they however had the only lead in the opening quarter. Riga team replied immediately and had 19:11 at the end of the period. Latvian side enjoyed a 34:21 advantage late in the first half, only for the hosts to score the last eight points of the second quarter to trail 34:29.
Corey Brewer gave his team 44:34 in the middle of the third frame and Aleksic scored for 48:35. Cajasol mounted in a 14-0 run to remain alive for 49:48. Corey Brewer closed the third period for 49:49. Uvis Helmanis with a three gave the visitors 61:55 and Valters netted two for 64:60. Andrea Pecile pulled his team to 65:67 but Grafs's free throw sent ASK Riga to EuroCup regular season.

Cajasol: Rivero del Caz 11, Miso Molina 10, Andrea Pecile 10
ASK Riga: Bruno Sundov 19, Uvis Helmanis 16, Corey Brewer 9

LBL standings
LBL Standings
 1. BK Ventspils 6-1 
 2. Liep.Lauvas 5-3 
 3. Valmiera 4-3 
 4. ASK Riga 3-1 
 5. Barons/LMT 3-2 
 6. VEF Riga 3-3 
 7. Zemgale 3-4 
 8. Buki Gulbene 2-5 
 9. Keizarmezs 0-7 


Standings - LBAL
LBL Standings
 1. ASK/Juniors 7-2 
 2. Valmiera-2 4-1 
 3. Saldus 4-1 
 4. RNS-D/Livani 4-3 
 5. Ridzene/Barons 3-2 
 6. Jurmala 3-2 
 7. Keizarmezs-2 3-3 
 8. Ventspils au. 3-4 
 9. Zemgale/Juniors 3-4 
 10. Liepajas Papirs 2-3 
 11. Kandava 2-4 
 12. BA Riga 1-5 
 13. SK Cesis 0-5 


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


Results from the first day of the 18th Hariri Tournament - by Asia-Basket Lebanon
In the first day of the 18th Hariri Tournament , Riyadi started the quest to retain the title by a very big win against Al Hilal from Saudi Arabia on the score of 121-54.
Riyadi who had strengthen its roster with the addition of big two key names Fadi El Khatib and Nate Johnson controlled everything on the court from its first minutes , Nate Johnson had a huge first quarter and scored from everywhere , El Khatib had its favorite hobby which is scoring from everywhere , Omar Turk had a very big 4th quarter which gave Riyadi a win with the biggest margin ever scored in the tournament .
Nate Johnson from Riyadi Finished with 27pts , Ryan Randle from Hilal with 30pts.

In the second game Antranik suffered its first loss against the well known Al Ahli from Egypt , Antranik who missed their shooting guard Lucious Wagner due to an injury received one dat earlier in the scrimmage game against Champville , had a good start but couldnt continue on the same tempo till the end , the game stood close throughout all its minutes , in the last minute the game was 78-75 from Al Ahli Antranik received an Unsportsmanlike Foul and a Technical Fouls which secured the First win for Al Ahly in the tournament on the score of the 85-75.

The tournament will join 10 teams , 6 from the Arab World and 4 from Lebanon .
Egypt : Al Ahli , Sporting
Morocco : Sila
KSA : Al Hilal
Bahrain : Mouharaq
Jordan : Al Riyadi
Lebanon : Riyadi - Beirut , Moutahed Tripoli , Blue Stars , Antranik - Beirut

The teams are divided into 2 groups :
A : Riyadi - Beirut , Al Ahli , Al Hilal , Mouharaq , Antranik - Beirut
B : Moutahed Tripoli , Blue Stars , Sila , Sporting , Al Riyadi

The teams will play each other in the groups , the first two teams from each Group will meet each other in the Semi Final Stage .

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


Nancy celebrates the first Euroleague win - by Eurobasket News
SLUC Nancy - Zalgiris 69-64

It was a game between two winless teams after 3 games in Group B. SLUC Nancy made it mostly owing to Lamayne Wilson (204-F-80, college: Troy) and Ricardo Greer (197-F/G-78, college: Pittsburgh), which were on a high level. Wilson drained 17 while Ricardo Greer added 16 points and 7 rebounds. Jeff Greer (196-G/F-79, college: Rutgers) helped Nancy netting 11 points. Zalgiris faced with fourth consecutive defeat and in the next round it will host powerful Regal Barcelona. Dainius Salenga (197-F-77) scored 15 and dished out 6 assists. Paulius Jankunas (203-F-84, agency: Interperformances) and Jonas Maciulis (198-G/F-85, agency: Interperformances) netted 13 points apiece.
Nancy was a better team from the beginning. Jeff Greer, Victor Samnick (203-F-79, college: Georgetown) and John Cox (195-G-81, college: USF) led the hosts to 17-9. Zalgiris immediately answered closing the gap on 22-17. During the second frame Nancy extended lead to 6 after basket by Steed Tchicamboud (193-G-81). Loren Woods (213-C-78, agency: Arik Krayn Services, college: Arizona) made it for Zalgiris setting the score on 38-34 at the half time. Third quarter was the crucial one as Nancy ended it with 13-0 run for 58-42. Paulius Jankunas gave some hope to Zalgiris in the last frame coming on 66-62 with less than two minutes to go. Lamayne Wilson made a triple after time-out keeping Nancy in charge until the end.

SLUC Nancy: Lamayne Wilson 17, Ricardo Greer 16+7 boards, Jeff Greer 11
Zalgiris: Dainius Salenga 15+4 boards+6 as, Paulius Jankunas 13+5 boards, Jonas Maciulis 13

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


Fuerza Regia in Trouble with Foreigners - by Carlos Chapa
After starting the season with a solid trio of foreigners, Fuerza Regia Monterrey has been struggling with injuries and other problems, Marvin Phillips (201-G/F-83, college: Claflin) has left the team to play in the CBA, Alejandro Carmona (194-G/F-83, agency: Next Level) left because of an injury, Lorenzo Trudo (201-F-80, college: Huron) was waived and then acquired by Potros ITSON. To cover some of this absences, Ivan Lopez arrived, but is also out now because of knee problems.

The international base is now formed by the Mexican-american Franco Harris (183-G, college: Boise St.), Marlon Martinez (204-F/C-79) who is currently suspended,- and Earnest Shelton (191-G-82, college: Alabama), also latin players Tomas Aguilera (198-F-77), and Jose Vargas (196-G/F-82),

Halcones Xalapa win 22 straight games in LNBP - by Eurobasket News
Halcones Xalapa stretched their unbelievable winning record to 22 games as they posted two more victories recently. In Round 21 Xalapa thrashed Galgos 116:83. Building a massive 26-point lead at halftime Xalapa eased to the victory in the second half. LeRoy Hickerson (196-G-82, college: Cumberlands) was impressive with 29 points for Xalapa. Victor Avila (209-C-77, college: Oklahoma) added 16 points, while Ray Castillo contributed 15 points in the 21st consecutive victory for Xalapa. Rommel Martinez answered with 20 points for Galgos as they suffered the 14th loss in the season.
Xalapa never slowed down and defeated ambitious Soles 91:73 in the 22nd round. Soles entered the game with a solid record of 18 wins in 22 games. They lived up to the status of dangerous opponents outscoring Xalapa 24:15 in the opening quarter. But Halcones quickly came back to life and started to pave their way back into contest in the second frame. Xalapa outgunned Soles 32:15 in the second term and piled up a 47:39 advantage at halftime. Soles did not managed to bounce back in the second half and lost the fifth game in the season. Gustavo Ayon (209-F/C-85, college: San Jose St.) paced Xalapa with 25 points and 17 boards. Sam Bowie (198-F/G-75, college: SE Louisiana) added 23 points in the victory. Horacio Llamas (212-C-73, agency: Interperformances) secured 23 points and 9 caroms for Soles in defeat.

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


Interview with Boris Lalovic , basketball player of BC Primorje - by Dragan Scepanovic

EUROBASKET Montenegro : Mr. Boris Lalovic , new season is start you are once again best basketball player ( by points and index points in first 4 Round ) in MNT1A league what is your secret of success
BORIS LALOVIC : First I want to thank you because you call me to give interview for best basketball internet page on world. My secret is hard work, representation from best basketball agency and family support. For last four season I choosing with DELFI SMG Agency best solution for me to play and with plenty good work in clubs BC Jedinstvo (semi-final of MNT Championship) , BC Ulcinj (semi-final of MNT Cup and Championship) , BC Mogren ( semi-final of MNT Cup and Final of Play-Off) and in this year Primorje from Herceg Novi I finish last two basketball season in Montenegro like MVP player.

EUROBASKET Montenegro : In new season you are in new basketball club, with new ambitions , but you play better that ever
BORIS LALOVIC : Once again I must confirm that I choice best solution in Montenegro for me. Basketball Club Primorje will be regional basketball center for next 4-5 year. First men of club Mr. Slobodan Radovic have big plans for BC Primorje in future. In new season we have very good team with many basketball players with plenty experience ( Bulgarian Najdenov play for CSKA, Pejovic and Stojanovic for ABS, Dragicevic,Tepavcevic and me for Mogren.) and we have good coach Mr. Glomazic. I try to give my best in each game which I play. With my performance in first 4 game in new championship I am very satisfied and I hope that I will play every day better.

EUROBASKET Montenegro : Basketball club in Super league , ho will play in Play-out
BORIS LALOVIC : I think that for first five place in regular season big battle will be taken between 7 clubs : BC Mornar Bar, BC Mogren Budva, BC Primorje H.Novi, BC Ulcinj,BC Danilovgrad, BC ABS Primorje H.Novi and BC Jedinstvo B.Polje.On this moment BC Lovcen Cetinje , BC Niksic and BC Rudar Pljevlja do not play good and if they not do something I think that between this team will be battle for survivor in MNT1A League



Standings - 1A
1A Standings
 1. Mornar Bar 4-0 
 2. ABS Primorje 3-1 
 3. Ulcijn 3-1 
 4. Primorje-M. 3-1 
 5. Mogren 2-2 
 6. Danilovgrad 2-2 
 7. Niksic 1-3 
 8. Jedinstvo 1-3 
 9. Lovcen 1-3 
 10. Rudar 0-4 


Standings - 1B
1B Standings
 1. Un.Mediteran 4-0 
 2. Niksic Bonus 3-1 
 3. Gorstak 3-1 
 4. Ljubovic 3-1 
 5. Teodo Tivat 3-1 
 6. Mornar Bar 2-2 
 7. Centar B.Polje 1-3 
 8. S.Centar 1-3 
 9. Kotor 0-4 
 10. Zeta 0-4 


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


NBA Round: 15 (Regular Season) - by Eurobasket News
Nuggets - Bobcats 88-80
Carmelo Anthony led Denver Nuggets to win in Time Warner Cable Arena pouring in 25 points and grabbing 6 rebounds. His team currently has 4-3. On the other side, the Bobcats faced with 5th defeat in 7 games despite 23 points and 5 boards from Jason Richardson.

Bucks - Cavaliers 93-99
LeBron James paced the Cavs to 6th victory this season draining amazing 41 points. At the same time he had 5 more rebounds and 6 assists. Richard Jefferson collected 19 pts and 6 boards for the Bucks, but they dropped on 3-5.

Jazz - 76ers 93-80
Utah Jazz registered another win this season mostly owing to Carlos Boozer, who added 19 points and 16 rebounds. Andrei Kirilenko and Ronnie Brewer helped with 16 points each. Philadelphia got 25 points and 6 assists from Andre Miller (2-5).

Hawks - Bulls 113-108
Atlanta Hawks made it at the United Center remaining perfect after 6 appearances. Alfred Horford was a key player for the visiting team adding 27 points and 17 rebounds. Michael Bibby followed netting 22 points. The Bulls this time got the most from Derrick Rose - 26 pts, 10 rebs and 6 assists (3-5).

Lakers - Mavericks 106-99
Kobe Bryant had another great game leading his team to 6-0. This time he stopped on 27 points and 4 rebs for 35 minutes. Pau Gasol nailed 22 plus 11 boards. Jason Terry contributed with 21 points in defeat. The Mavs currently have 2-5.

Knicks - Spurs 80-92
San Antonio grabbed home victory vs New York without injured Tony Parker. It is the second joy for the Spurs in 6 games. Tim Dunkan dominated collecting 23 points, 9 rebounds and 7 assists. Jamal Crawford shined for the Knicks scoring 28 points but it was not enough for fifth win (4-3).

Pistons - Kings 100-92
Allen Iverson and Tayshaun Prince combined 56 points, 18 rebounds and 11 assists leading the Pistons to 5-2. Spencer Hawes had 10 points and 6 boards while Beno Udrih contributed with 18 pts and 7 rebs for the loosing side (2-5).

Timberwolves - Warriors 110-113 OT
Golden State Warriors escaped with a tiny OT victory against the Minnesota improving the score on 3-5. Stephen Jackson drained 30 while Kelenna Azubuike followed him with 22 points and 8 boards. Al Jefferson delivered 25 points and pulled down 12 rebounds, but it was not enough for the Timberwolves tonight (1-6).



*****************************************************
  NEW ZEALAND   


The Breakers improve to 9-3 record in NBL - by Eurobasket News
The New Zealand Breakers secured two straight wins in the Australian National Basketball League recently. On Saturday the Breakers sneaked past the Melbourne Tigers 86:84 in an exciting basketball show at the State Netball and Hockey Centre. The Tigers got to a slightly better start to the game as they led early in the game. But Kirk Penney (194-G-80, college: Wisconsin) stepped up for the Breakers as his back-to-back treys lifted the visitors up 23:22 at the first break. The Breakers stretched the margin to 17 points at halftime and continued to impress in the third quarter. Their advantage once reached a 22-point mark as the Tigers struggled to inspire the home crowd. However Sam Mackinnon (197-F/G-76) and Chris Anstey (213-C-75) fueled a comeback effort from the hosts as they denied the deficit. The Tigers tied the scoreline for several times in the fourth quarter before trailing by just two points with seconds remaining. CJ Bruton (188-G-75, college: Indian Hills CC) missed the shot and Ebi Ere (195-G/F-81, college: Oklahoma) had a chance to save the day for the Tigers. However his trey rimmed out and the Breakers got away with a narrow victory. Kirk Penney topscored with 25 points. Tony Ronaldson (203-F/C-72) added 13 points, while Oscar Forman (205-G/F-82) had 12 in the win. Chris Anstey replied with 19 points for the Tigers.
Today the Breakers secured the ninth win in the season as they outgunned the Cairns Taipans 93:81 on the road. Kirk Penney scored 22 points 18 of them coming in the decisive second half. Oscar Forman contributed 19 points in the winning case. Gary Boodnikoff (200-G/F-79, college: Augusta St.) replied with 19 points for the Taipans in defeat.

*****************************************************
  NIGERIA   


FIBA Africa Zone-3 Qualifiers: ASPAC, Pillars in good start - by Olusegun Ikuesan


FIBA Africa Zone-3 Qualifiers: Nigerian team seeded - by Olusegun Ikuesan


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


Detroit Panthers preparing the PBL season - by Gianni Pascucci

The Detroit Panthers officially kicked off their 2008-09 season by hosting a free agent camp this past weekend. This is the Panthers first year playing in the Premier Basketball League (PBL). 'We had a great turn out for the camp and are looking at some great young talent with extensive basketball experience', said Head Coach and Assistant GM Bill Jones . Also in attendance at the camp was President and GM, Kevin A. Carter who explained that 'We have been eagerly waiting for this day to strap on our gear and hit the hardwood in preparations for a great season in Detroit and the PBL as a whole,' stated Carter. To learn more about the Detroit Panthers call (248) 594-SLAM or visit their website at www.detroitpanthers.com



*****************************************************
  ROMANIA   


Ploiesti beat Toulon, fail to advance - by Eurobasket News
Ploiesti - Toulon 77:67

Romanian CSU Ploiesti defeated Toulon in the return leg of their EuroChallenege second qualifying round match-up. The win however was tasteless as Ploiesti failed to overcame a massive 26-point deficit after the game in France.
The lead changed hands several times in the opening term before Darius Hargrove (193-G-82, agency: Global Sports Plaza, college: Virginia Union) tied it all 24 at the end. Darius Hargrove then opened the second term with a three-pointer and Arvydas Cepulis (195-G-79) added another one as Ploiesti grabbed a 32:26 lead. However Vincent Masingue (205-F/C-76), Nichols and Dontaye Draper (180-G-84, college: Charleston) kept Toulon close and the visitors trailed by just 8 points at halftime. Burlacu and Darius Hargrove gave the home team hope as they extended the margin to 15 points early in the third stanza. Rashard Griffith (212-C-74, agency: Edge Sports, college: Wisconsin) scored a layup and Ploiesti got closer to the task leading 53:36 midway through the third frame. Darius Hargrove and Zoran Osmokrovic (189-G-81, agency: Beo Basket) crowned the frame with consecutive buckets and Ploiesti entered the fourth quarter with a 17-point cushion. Zoran Osmokrovic and Arvydas Cepulis stretched the gap to 20 points at the start of the fourth quarter but it was the biggest advantage Ploiesti could build yesterday. Vincent Masingue, Moustapha Sonko (192-G-72) and Pierre Pierce (193-G-83, college: Iowa) cut the distance to 17 points and later Dontaye Draper came up with 7 points late in the game to seal the winning outcome for Toulon on aggregate.
Vincent Masingue scored 17 points and pulled down 9 rebounds for Toulon. Dontaye Draper added 16 points and 6 rebounds for the French side. Darius Hargrove paced Ploiesti with 20 points. Arvydas Cepulis finished with 12 points in the victory.

Ploiesti: Darius Hargrove 20, Arvydas Cepulis 12
Toulon: Vincent Masingue 17, Dontaye Draper 16

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


Samara lose in Croatia, still qualify for EuroChallenge - by Eurobasket News
KK Zagreb - Samara 76:69

Samara secured the win on aggregate against Croatian KK Zagreb despite a 69:76 loss in Zagreb. Samara arrived to Croatia with a 20-point buffer after the home game and looked pretty confident en route to the next round. The visitors opened the game with a 5:0 run to send a strong message to the hosts. Marque Perry (186-G-81, agency: N.E.T., college: St.Louis) and Ivanov scored the final six points in the opening term and Samara led 26:18 after ten minutes of action. Marque Perry kept the Russian team in charge in the second frame and Samara enjoyed a 43:38 advantage at the interval. Zagreb sparked the intrigue when they started the third frame on a 16:0 run to grab a 54:43 lead. But Marque Perry and Andrew Sullivan (203-F-80, college: Villanova) accounted for some key points late in the frame to soothe the tension. Zagreb headed into the fourth term leading by just 5 points. Krunoslav Simon (197-G/F-85) and Andrej Stimac (204-F/C-79) fired 7 straight points for the hosts to enlarge the gap to 9 points. However Marque Perry, Sergei Demeshkin (200-F-76) and Virgil Stanescu (207-C/F-77, agency: Interperformances, college: S.Alabama) silenced the home team and Samara ensured the win on aggregate at the end.
Marque Perry knocked down 27 points for Samara. Andrew Sullivan added 12 points and 11 boards in defeat. Jakov Vladovic (186-G-83) led Zagreb with 23 points. Krunoslav Simon contributed 22 points for the home team.

Zagreb: Jakov Vladovic 23, Krunoslav Simon 22, Andrej Stimac 15
Samara: Marque Perry 27, Andrew Sullivan 12+11 boards

CSKA trashes Efes Pilsen in Moscow jumping on 4-0 - by Eurobasket News
CSKA Moscow - Efes Pilsen 90-68

Reigning Euroleague champion CSKA Moscow had an easy job against Efes Pilsen remaining the only perfect team in Group D after 4 games. On the other side, the team of head coach Ergin Ataman faced with the second consecutive defeat and now it has 2-2. As a reminder, Panionios On Telecoms celebrated in Istanbul last week. Ramunas Siskauskas (197-G-78) top-scored for the winners with 19 points also dishing out 5 assists. Terence Morris (206-F-79, college: Maryland) was behind him adding 17 points and 5 boards while Trajan Langdon (192-G-76, college: Duke) stopped on 15 points. Croatian PG/G Zoran Planinic (198-G-82) was MVP of the game collecting 14 points, 8 rebs and 4 assists for 21:23 on the floor. Charles Smith (193-G-75, college: N.Mexico) was the only one in Efes who was capable to compete against the Russian powerhouse finishing the game with 22 points.
CSKA opened it in style creating wonderful 27-9 in the first quarter. At that point of game it was already clear that the Turkish representative won't have any chance until the end. Russian machine slowed down in the second frame, but after the breather it had another pretty decent 10 minutes entering into the last quarter with 74-47. Until the end of the game Efes Pilsen succeeded just to close the gap on 22 points. CSKA had excellent shot percentage from beyond the arc. Its players attempted 25 times making amazing 18 (72%). The hosts also totally outjumped Efes 33-19.

CSKA Moscow: Ramunas Siskauskas 19+5 as, Terence Morris 17+5 boards, Trajan Langdon 15, Zoran Planinic 14+8 boards+4 as
Efes Pilsen: Charles Smith 22, Ender Arslan (190-G-83) 11

Hapoel Jerusalem wins, Unics advances - by Eurobasket News
Hapoel Jerusalem -Unics 76:73

Hapoel Jerusalem wins the second game of the EuroCup Qualifying Round 2, however Unics advances to the regular season. After 88:66 in the first game Unics did not mind giving the second game to the Israeli team, 76:73. Timothy Bowers (188-G-82, college: Mississippi St.) paced all the winners with 16 points. Yuval Naimy (185-G/F-86) and Travis Watson (203-F/C-81, college: Virginia) followed him with 12 points as Hapoel Jerusalem will concentrate now on the local league. Terrell Lyday (190-G-79, college: BYU) top-scored for the Russian team with 17 points and Kresimir Loncar (210-F-83) added 14. Unics wins 161-142 on aggregate.
Hapoel led by as many as 10 points in the first quarter but were never able to seriously threaten Unics. Yuval Naimy closed the opening period with 25:18. In the second quarter Sneed brought the hosts 40:30, however Terrell Lyday reduced to 41:35 at the halftime.
Unics opened the third period with 8-3 run and tied the game at 43:43. The Russian squad felt more confident in the court and had 56:54 entering the last stanza. Three times in the last frame the score was tied with the last one at 69:69. Kresimir Loncar made it 73:70 for their last points in the game, but Hapoel finished with 6-0 to take 76:73 win.

Hapoel Jerusalem: Timothy Bowers 16, Yuval Naimy 12, Travis Watson 12
Unics: Terrell Lyday 17, Kresimir Loncar 14

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


Lower league - results - by Nenad Ilijev

First Serbian League - North
Round 7

NS Junior - Srem 71-73 (Vujosevic 17, Sveljo 17 - Grozdanic 24, Sekulic 19)
FKL - Jedinstvo 89-69 (Grahovac 20, Grbic 18 - Colic 19, Vukelja 18)
Sveti Djordje - Spartak 79-69 (Boljac 18, Bordos 16 - Sirovina 20, Kalinic 15)
Sport Key - Zeleznicar 83-96 (Ivosev 26, Djukovic 21 - Jerkovic 28, Pekovic 22)
Duga - Mladost Teletehnika 94-90 (Zec 30, Stolic 16 - Medic 23, Ugrcic 17)
Nova Pazova - Krajina Grmec 92-67 (Zoricic 20, Adam 19 - Cuic 33, Pocuca 14)
Dunav - Topola 90-65



First Serbian League - Center
Round 6

Sport Eko - Panda 79-87 (Popovic M. 22, Zdujic 13 - Simceski 20, Milosevic 20)
Mladost - Vojvoda Stepa DOO 85-77 (Obradovic 19, Stojadinovic 18 - Rasic 23, Urukalo 18)
Kolubara - Kotez 85-90 (Savic 18, Zivanovic 18 - Petrovic 28, Boskovic 18)
Sava - Zemun Lasta 73-86 (Vukadinovic 14, Delic 13 - Petric 13, Kavurin 12)
Radnicki - Grocka 88-80 (Spalevic 24, Galic 22 - Ilic 17, Pantic 14)



Bojan Ljubojevic signed back at Kragujevac - by Nenad Ilijev
Experienced inside player Bojan Ljubojevic (204-C-78, agency: Beo Basket) left Hungary due private reasons and he will continue his career in Serbia. Ljubojevic started this season in Mega Hypo Leasing Beograd but moved to Soproni Sordogok after 3 games played in domestic championship. He signed with Radnicki 034 Group again as he spent 4 years in Kragujevac earlier in his career. After signing of Ljubojevic, Radnicki coach Zoran Cvetanovic believes that his team has one of the strongest position in the paint in the Serbian A League.

Belgrade sent Allianz Swans Gmunden out of EuroCup - by Eurobasket News
Crvena Zvezda -Allianz Swans Gmunden 96:81

Belgrade sent Allianz Swans Gmunden out of EuroCup and will have Crvena Zvezda in the regular season of the competition. Crvena Zvezda overcame Allianz Swans Gmunden 96:81 to advance to the next round. Tadija Dragicevic (205-F-86, agency: Beo Basket) paced all the winners with 21 points and 11 rebounds. Leroy Andre Owens (192-G-80, college: Houston) nailed 14, while Marko Marinovic (183-G-83) posted 13. Elijah Palmer (201-F-81, agency: Court Side, college: Duquesne) and Deteri Mayes (189-G-74, agency: Court Side, college: Murray St.) brought 25 points each in the losing effort. Crvena Zvezda wins 178-163 on aggregate.
After 82:82 in the first game the first period did not bring the advantage to any of the teams. Keselj with a lay-up made it 24:24. The hosts took a lead later in the second and Tadija Dragicevic made it 51:41 with 1.25 to play in the first half. Elijah Palmer scored for 51:42 as the teams went to the lockers.
Pesic's team then extended the advantage to 74:57 by the end of the third quarter. Swans poured in the first nine points of the fourth quarter, capped by Matthias Mayer's three-point play to trim the deficit to 74:66. Bjelica made it 84:68 as the Serbian team started to celebrate. Tadija Dragicevic set up the final, 96:81 with his team advancing to the next stage.

Crvena Zvezda: Tadija Dragicevic 21+11 rebs, Leroy Andre Owens 14, Marko Marinovic 13
Allianz Swans Gmunden: Elijah Palmer 25+12 rebs, Deteri Mayes 25

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


Epic Misel adds Moro - by Zeljko Zule

Epic Misel Postojna and new coach Predrag Milovic began filling out their roster with David Moro (199-G-86, agency: Global Sports Plaza). He spent last season with Helios and Spanish team Costa Urbanas de Santa Pola. Moro will be joining his fourth team in only five seasons in Slovenian A-1 UPC League. Last season he averaged 3,2 points, 1,2 rebounds, 0,4 assists and 0,4 steals in Slovenian Championship and 7,1 points in Spanish LEB-Silver League.



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


Tau is undefeated no more, Lottomatica makes it in Spain - by Eurobasket News
Tau Ceramica - Lottomatica Roma 90-93

Tau Ceramica was trying to stay undefeated after 4th round, but they ran into a very inspired Lottomatica team tonight. Lottomatica came into Vitoria confident, and took a lead from the opening tip-off. Lottomatica's strong defense and good shooting beyond the arc (7-18) gave them a 10-point cushion for most of the game. During the second quarter Lottomatica had a 14-point lead, and ended the half up by 10 points (49-39), despite a 9-meter banked three-pointer by Pablo Prigioni (186-G-77) as the time was expiring. Third quarter didn't bring much change, while Tau was searching for the right team on the floor. Lottomatica's lead was only challenged in the fourth quarter when Tau tried to make a late come back. With 21 second half points, Igor Rakocevic (191-G-78), Euroleague leading scorer, brought Tau within 1 point with 3 minutes to go. However, Lottomatica's Sani Becirovic (195-G-81, agency: Beo Basket), who was calm the whole evening made 2 clutch free throws 25 seconds left in the game. Sani Becirovic was 11-12 from the free throw line, and had 23 points for the game. Sani was helped by his country mate from Slovenia, Primoz Brezec (216-F/C-79), who delivered 18 points and grabbed 4 rebounds. Andre Hutson (202-F-79, college: Michigan St.) also played an important part of this road victory for Lottomatica with 15 points and 4 boards. Rakocevic ended the game with 23 points, and received help from William McDonald (207-C-79, college: S.Florida) who added 16 points and 8 boards.
Tau's loss leaves both teams on top of their group C with 3-1 score. They could be joined by Fenerbahce Ulker (currently 2-1) who plays on Thursday night against Union Olimpija at home.

Tau Ceramica: Igor Rakocevic 23, William McDonald 16+8 boards, Mirza Teletovic (203-F-85, agency: Beo Basket) 15+4 boards.
Lottomatica Roma: Sani Becirovic 23, Primoz Brezec 18+4 boards, Andre Hutson 15+4 boards

CB Gran Canaria thrashes Swiss representative - by Eurobasket News
CB Gran Canaria -Benetton Olympic 103:61

CB Gran Canaria thrashes Swiss representative in Qualifying Round 2. Game 2 saw demolition of Benetton Olympic that lost 103:61. Joel Freeland (208-F-87) led the Spanish squad with 19 points. Carl English (192-G-81, college: Hawaii) notched 16 and Daniel Kickert (208-C-83, college: St.Mary's, CA) scored 15. Dennis Harrison (201-F-79, college: Colorado) finished the night with 17 points for the visitors, whilst Fields added 12. CB Gran Canaria wins 195-125 on aggregate.
CB Gran Canaria is on top of their best years as the team shows great style in and out of the country. On Sunday the team climbed into first place in the ACB for the first time in club history. In the game versus Benetton Olympic the hosts started with 17-4 that led to 27:15 at the end of the first period. CB Gran Canaria enjoyed 52:29 at the halftime and could celebrate the qualification at that time.
A 26-18 in the third period lifted them up to 78:47 entering the final stanza. There was nothing the visitors could suggest for the hosts. Benetton Olympic had a good lesson and showed all they could, but the level was different in the court. CB Gran Canaria finished the last period at 25-14 and won the second game of the Qualifying Round 2.

CB Gran Canaria: Joel Freeland 19, Carl English 16, Daniel Kickert 15
Benetton Olympic: Dennis Harrison 17, Fields 12

ASK Riga defeats Cajasol in Game 2 as well - by Eurobasket News
Cajasol-ASK Riga 65:68

Latvian ASK Riga will represent the country in EuroCup regular season. The team had a road win in Spain in Game 2 of their EuroCup Qualifying Round 2 to advance to the next stage. Cajasol lost the second game 65:68 and was defeated 134:151 on aggregate. Bruno Sundov (218-C-80) led the winners with 19 points in Game 2. Uvis Helmanis (204-F-72, agency: Stanley International) nailed 16 and Corey Brewer (188-G-75, college: Oklahoma) posted 9. Rivero del Caz posted 11 for the hosts, while Miso Molina and Andrea Pecile (187-G-80, agency: World Sport Agency) added 10 each.
Ellis opened the game for the Spanish side as they however had the only lead in the opening quarter. Riga team replied immediately and had 19:11 at the end of the period. Latvian side enjoyed a 34:21 advantage late in the first half, only for the hosts to score the last eight points of the second quarter to trail 34:29.
Corey Brewer gave his team 44:34 in the middle of the third frame and Aleksic scored for 48:35. Cajasol mounted in a 14-0 run to remain alive for 49:48. Corey Brewer closed the third period for 49:49. Uvis Helmanis with a three gave the visitors 61:55 and Valters netted two for 64:60. Andrea Pecile pulled his team to 65:67 but Grafs's free throw sent ASK Riga to EuroCup regular season.

Cajasol: Rivero del Caz 11, Miso Molina 10, Andrea Pecile 10
ASK Riga: Bruno Sundov 19, Uvis Helmanis 16, Corey Brewer 9

*****************************************************
  SWITZERLAND   


CB Gran Canaria thrashes Swiss representative - by Eurobasket News
CB Gran Canaria -Benetton Olympic 103:61

CB Gran Canaria thrashes Swiss representative in Qualifying Round 2. Game 2 saw demolition of Benetton Olympic that lost 103:61. Joel Freeland (208-F-87) led the Spanish squad with 19 points. Carl English (192-G-81, college: Hawaii) notched 16 and Daniel Kickert (208-C-83, college: St.Mary's, CA) scored 15. Dennis Harrison (201-F-79, college: Colorado) finished the night with 17 points for the visitors, whilst Fields added 12. CB Gran Canaria wins 195-125 on aggregate.
CB Gran Canaria is on top of their best years as the team shows great style in and out of the country. On Sunday the team climbed into first place in the ACB for the first time in club history. In the game versus Benetton Olympic the hosts started with 17-4 that led to 27:15 at the end of the first period. CB Gran Canaria enjoyed 52:29 at the halftime and could celebrate the qualification at that time.
A 26-18 in the third period lifted them up to 78:47 entering the final stanza. There was nothing the visitors could suggest for the hosts. Benetton Olympic had a good lesson and showed all they could, but the level was different in the court. CB Gran Canaria finished the last period at 25-14 and won the second game of the Qualifying Round 2.

CB Gran Canaria: Joel Freeland 19, Carl English 16, Daniel Kickert 15
Benetton Olympic: Dennis Harrison 17, Fields 12

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


CSKA trashes Efes Pilsen in Moscow jumping on 4-0 - by Eurobasket News
CSKA Moscow - Efes Pilsen 90-68

Reigning Euroleague champion CSKA Moscow had an easy job against Efes Pilsen remaining the only perfect team in Group D after 4 games. On the other side, the team of head coach Ergin Ataman faced with the second consecutive defeat and now it has 2-2. As a reminder, Panionios On Telecoms celebrated in Istanbul last week. Ramunas Siskauskas (197-G-78) top-scored for the winners with 19 points also dishing out 5 assists. Terence Morris (206-F-79, college: Maryland) was behind him adding 17 points and 5 boards while Trajan Langdon (192-G-76, college: Duke) stopped on 15 points. Croatian PG/G Zoran Planinic (198-G-82) was MVP of the game collecting 14 points, 8 rebs and 4 assists for 21:23 on the floor. Charles Smith (193-G-75, college: N.Mexico) was the only one in Efes who was capable to compete against the Russian powerhouse finishing the game with 22 points.
CSKA opened it in style creating wonderful 27-9 in the first quarter. At that point of game it was already clear that the Turkish representative won't have any chance until the end. Russian machine slowed down in the second frame, but after the breather it had another pretty decent 10 minutes entering into the last quarter with 74-47. Until the end of the game Efes Pilsen succeeded just to close the gap on 22 points. CSKA had excellent shot percentage from beyond the arc. Its players attempted 25 times making amazing 18 (72%). The hosts also totally outjumped Efes 33-19.

CSKA Moscow: Ramunas Siskauskas 19+5 as, Terence Morris 17+5 boards, Trajan Langdon 15, Zoran Planinic 14+8 boards+4 as
Efes Pilsen: Charles Smith 22, Ender Arslan (190-G-83) 11

Derrick Allen sends Skyliners to EuroChallenge regular season - by Eurobasket News
Antalya - Skyliners 65:67

Derrick Allen (203-F-80, agency: Pro One Sports, college: Mississippi) nailed a buzzer-beating jump shot winning a dramatic game for Skyliners in Turkey. The Frankfurt outfit took on Antalya away from home after the home 60:60 tie. It was the winner takes it all game for both sides and it lived up to the highest expectations.
King nailed six early points for the visitors as they cleared off to a 17:6 distance. Akin capped the first frame with two free throws and Antalya trailed 8:17 at the first break. Dominik Bahiense de Mello (190-G-85) drained back-to-back trebles for Skyliners as they pulled ahead for a 25:13 lead midway through the second term. Michael Green (185-G-85, college: Towson) and Cemal Bayraktar (184-G-82) managed to cut the distance late in the half and Antalya were behind by 9 points at the interval. Ersin Gorkem (195-F-77) nailed 9 points in the third frame and Antalya came as close as 3 points with one quarter to go. Marcus Douthit (211-F/C-80, agency: Passing Lane, college: Providence) and Ersin Gorkem dragged the hosts within one point from Skyliners early in the fourth period. Three-pointers from Dominik Bahiense de Mello and Ilian Evtimov (201-F-83, agency: Interperformances, college: N.Carolina St.) allowed Skyliners to jump to a 4-point advantage. But Michael Green and Marcus Douthit converted layups for Antalya and drew things level at 62 with just over 2 minutes remaining. Ersin Gorkem netted a free throw to put Antalya ahead. Pascal Roller (180-G-76) answered with a three-point play for Skyliners to regain the lead for the German side 65:63. Antalya refused to fold and Michael Green tied things up at 65 with 26 seconds remaining. But the time remaining was just enough for Skyliners to save the game. Derrick Allen notched a buzzer-beating jumper and Skyliners got away with a narrow victory.
Ilian Evtimov knocked down 16 points for Skyliners. Konrad Wysocki (202-F-82, agency: Pro One Sports, college: Princeton) added 12 points and 10 boards, while Dominik Bahiense de Mello contributed 11 points in the win. Marcus Douthit answered with 16 points and 11 boards for Antalya. Ersin Gorkem had 16 points in the loss.

Antalya: Marcus Douthit 16+11 boards, Ersin Gorkem 16
Skyliners: Ilian Evtimov 16, Konrad Wysocki 12+10 boards, Dominik Bahiense de Mello 11

AEL book EuroChallenge regular season ticket - by Eurobasket News
AEL - Banvit 89:72

AEL handled Banvit in Limassol and advanced to the EuroChallenge regular season. Having built a 7-point cushion after the first game AEL gave not a single chance for Banvit at home court. Haris Mujezinovic (205-F-74, agency: Beo Basket, college: Indiana) knocked down 16 points and grabbed 8 rebounds to pace AEL. Vujadin Subotic (198-G-81, agency: Beo Basket) added 13 points, while Quincy Taylor (196-G-82, college: UAB) and LaVell Blanchard (201-G-81, agency: Beo Basket, college: Michigan) secured 12 points each for the winners. Lance Williams (206-C-80, college: De Paul) answered with 18 points for Banvit. Joseph Crispin (186-G-79, agency: Interperformances, college: Penn St.), Yildirim and Turna had 8 points each in defeat.
AEL looked solid right from the start as they warmly welcomed Banvit. The hosts scored the first ten points of the game and cruised to a 26:12 lead at the end of the opening term. Three-pointers from Mitchell and Milan Dozet (203-G/F-79, agency: Beo Basket) kept AEL in front early in the second term. Milan Dozet and LaVell Blanchard secured a 46:34 advantage for the hosts at halftime. Quincy Taylor opened the second half with consecutive buckets and AEL led by 16 points at the moment. Banvit refused to surrender and cut the deficit to 11 points at the final intermission. However Haris Mujezinovic, Milan Dozet and Quincy Taylor came up with baskets at the start of the fourth quarter and AEL never looked back en route to the victory.
Banvit outrebounded AEL 34:32 but shot just 40% from the field. AEL sank impressive 56% of field goals in the win.

AEL: Haris Mujezinovic 16, Vujadin Subotic 13, Quincy Taylor 12, LaVell Blanchard 12
Banvit: Lance Williams 18, Joseph Crispin 8

Interview with Reggie Butler - by Ozell Wells
EUROBASKET HAD THE CHANCE TO SIT DOWN WITH VETERAN FIBA PLAYER Reginald Butler (207-C-77, agency: ProSportsCareers, college: Xavier), WHO STARRED LAST SEASON IN SPAIN NAD HASCHOSEN TO REJOIN THE TURKISH LEAGUE, THIS SEASON WITH Besiktas ColaTurka Istanbul. REGGIE HAS HAS VARIED EXPERIENCES IN SPAIN, TURKEY, NBA (ATLANTA HAWKS) and in the USA.

1.Why did you choose to play the leb silver last year.
A..I chose to play in that team because of thier professionalism and the high salary that team had 2 offer...i had offers in 1st division teams in other countries but i knew that team would be professional and on time at the end of day this is a business along with the joy of playing.

2.How is your new team besiktas in turkey?
A.Its clearly a talented team my 1st game was a loss to a hungry team but we have the potential to do something special.

3.Have you adjusted to coaching style of Harkan Demir?
A. Harkan is a great coach..his style is demanding but its for the best..some things are different from ways i have played in the past so my reaction is off a lil due 2 instinct but everyday im catching on more

4.How did u catch on the chance of a eurocup team after playing with the spainish team?
A. Well my usa agent merle scott was trying hard with his new partners in pushing me to a higher level that i deserved.then a good turkish friend of mine ali guney whos very up and coming let the team know that im the guy that can help them down low.

5.Cause it seems everyone wants an ex-nba guy now a days?
A. yea some teams have idea that usa players are only for jumping high or having huge muscles haha even if they were on a nba bench for 4 years, but its the good teams that constantly win the euroleagues and make final 4's that have guys that are solid in the middle...cska with david andersen..great player but doesnt jump like dwight howard,tel aviv with vujcic, same thing as with tau and montepaschi..look at nba champs with perkins in the middle..thats difference in teams that win..they look at what the player is actully doing not how he looks doing it.

6.Youve seemed to have lost weight yourself?
A. Since i was last here in turkey 2 years ago ive lost 13 kilos to help with my movement and my overall look cause like i said some teams just seem to want guys who LOOK good haha..even if he's not doing anything on the court.

7.You came from a great basketball college Xavier..how did going there prepare you for professional level?
A. Well it helped cause everyone on my teams had pro potential..we had guy who went to nba.that i played behind James Posey,Torraye Braggs,Dave West, but also guys that still play at very high euro and asia levels,Lionel Chalmers,Anthony Myles,Dave Young,Romain Sato,along with a talented group of younger guys who recently came out and are playing well in the pro's

8,Now that your at the level you deserve what are your plans from here
A.They are to play well and help this team win is the 1st priority, then either come back or move onto another team that i can flourish in and enjoy the atmosphere with my family and teamates

9.Any message to the basketball crazed Besiktas fans?
A.Yes...stick by us...we are in the process of getting the ship right...love us in down times also..it will be rewarded with great team play..............

EUROBASKET WANTS TO THANK REGGIE FOR HIS TIME IN GIVING THIS INTERVIEW TO US AND WISHES HIM THBEST OF LUCK THIS SEASON!!!!

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


Changes in Azovmash, Girkis instead of Becirovic - by Eurobasket News

Surprising news came from Mariupol. After first failure of the season, what happened against Khimik in Round 6, management of BC Azovmash decided to fire Mehmet Becirovic. The Slovenian coach, who took over the team in a very difficult situation last year winning the National Cup as well as the Championship, made pretty strong squad with excellent results in preseason and in the first 5 games in Ukrainian Superleague. The team hired Rimas Girkis, who used to be a head coach of the team in 2006/07 and also worked as a Sports Director. Girkis will have his debut at the Azovmash's bench on Saturday in derby game against Kyiv.
According to the rumors, it seems that Azovmash for the first time faced with kind of financial troubles deciding to cut the budget due to world wide crisis. Another rumor also showed up yesterday that Panagiotis Liadelis (193-G-74) and Marc Salyers (205-F-79, college: Samford) get fired while all other players are fined. However, last two sentences are not confirmed by the club yet.



Panellinios escapes from the capital of Ukraine - by Eurobasket News
BC Kyiv - Panellinios 96:72

The capital of Ukraine with 2000 spectators present at the EuroCup Qualifying Round 2 campaign saw a real battle of local BC Kyiv against Panellinios. The Greek side survived in the second game and managed to advance to the regular season. BC Kyiv nearly came back from a 27-point first-leg defeat but posted 96:72 victory. Scoonie Penn (178-G-77, college: Ohio St.) led the winners with 25 points. Manuchar Markoishvili (195-G-86) netted 22, while Brent Wright (203-F/C-78, college: Florida) and Alex Scales (192-G-78, college: Oregon) added 15 each. Manolis Papamakarios (190-G-80) ended up with 15 points in defeat, whilst Anthony Grundy (189-G-79, agency: Strategic Sports, college: N.Carolina St.) and Giorgos Kalaitzis (195-G-76) scored 14 apiece. By prevailing 168-165 on aggregate, the Greek team progressed to the EuroCup.
BC Kyiv opened the game as if they had to and produced 31:13 in the opening quarter. Panellinios replied with 19-11 in the second period to reduce the gap at the halftime. Scoonie Penn's free throw was the last in the second frame for 42:32.
Even though Kyiv team had another run, Panellinios closed the gap again to 10 in the contest at 60:50 by the end of the third quarter. Brent Wright connected from long range to start a 15-0 run for Kyiv which gave them an 82:59 advantage. Alex Scales posted two for 87:65 with less than a minute to play. Manuchar Markoishvili's lay-up brought 93:72 and Jeretin closed the game at 96:72. Greek side prevailing 168-165 on aggregate progressed to the EuroCup.

BC Kyiv: Scoonie Penn 25, Manuchar Markoishvili 22, Brent Wright 15, Alex Scales 15
Panellinios: Manolis Papamakarios 15, Anthony Grundy 14, Giorgos Kalaitzis 14

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


Venezuelans Abroad Update - by Francisco Vega

Barquisimeto, Venezuela.- Venezuelans playing in foreign countries continued to have starring roles in their respective teams and saw some action in the last week around the world. Here's a short summary of their performances:

MEXICO (LNBP)
-Jorge Arrieta has yet to earn his first victory as head coach of Angeles de Puebla, as he's got a 0-7 record ever since he arrived to the country.

-Juan Herrera (197-F-81) scored 27 points and grabbed 10 rebounds in a triumph of Santos Reales de San Luis over Bravos de Piedras Negras, 112-86

-Hernan Salcedo (198-F-80) scored 8 points and grabbed 12 rebounds in a defeat of Angeles de Puebla against Dorados de Chihuahua, 73-64.

-Gregory Vargas (182-G-86) debuted with Angeles de Puebla by scoring 7 points with 3 assists and 2 rebounds, in a defeat against Dorados de Chihuahua, 73-64.

-Jose Juan Bravo (200-C-80) did not play in a defeat of Angeles de Puebla against Dorados de Chihuahua, 73-64.

-Pedro Brito (202-F/C-82) netted 13 points with 7 rebounds in a victory of Panteras de Aguascalientes against Correcaminos de Victoria, 84-56.

-Jose Vargas (196-G/F-82) scored 15 points in a triumph of Fuerza Regia de Monterrey over Barreteros de Zacatecas, 109-100.

-Tomas Aguilera (198-F-77) scored 13 points in a triumph of Fuerza Regia de Monterrey over Barreteros de Zacatecas, 109-100.

-Carlos Morris (194-G-75) netted 6 points in a defeat of Venados de Nuevo Laredo against Estrellas Indebasket, 86-75.


ARGENTINA (TNA)

-Axiers Sucre (198-F-78) was a starter for Union de Sunchales in Matchday 5 as his team defeated Obera Tenis Club, 107-78, in Group North. Sucre was the top scorer with 23 points and added 11 rebounds.


COLOMBIA (Copa Invitacional)

-Eduardo Torres (195-F-81) won the 2008 championship with Norte de Santander, after taking down Bucaros de Bucaramanga in the Finals, 4-1.

-Miguel Marriaga (206-C-84) and Cruz Salcedo could not lead Bucaros de Bucaramanga to a third straight championship as they lost the Finals against Norte de Santander, 4-1.


SPAIN (LEB Gold - EBA A - U20)
-Javier Roman (207-F/C-80) came off the bench for Leche Rio Breogan Lugo as they won against Grupo Begar Leon, 89-85. He played 17 minutes and had 7 points, 2 rebounds, a block and 3 fouls.

-Jhornan Zamora (194-F-89) was a starter for Zarzuela Maristas Boecillo in EBA A, and his team defeated Grupo CLN, 90-87. He played 32 minutes and had 18 points, 6 rebounds, 3 assists, 2 steals, 1 turnover and 3 fouls.

-Javinger Vargas (206-C-90) came off the bench for Beirasar Rosalia in the U20 tournament, during a victory, 89-54, over Caja Canarias Ciudad de Telde. Vargas played 12 minutes and finished up with 7 points, 4 rebounds, 2 steals, one turnover and 4 fouls


ITALY (LEGA A)

-Hector Romero (202-F-80) was a starter in Matchday 5 of the 2008-2009 season for Snaidero Udine, as his team earned its first victory of the season, 104-100, over Lottomatica Roma. He played 27 minutes and finished up with 8 points, 7 rebounds, 1 turnover, 2 steals and an assist.

-Oscar Torres (195-F/G-76) was a starter in Matchday 5 of the 2008-2009 season for Snaidero Udine, as his team earned its first victory of the season, 104-100, over Lottomatica Roma. Torres played 32 minutes, and ended up with 20 points, 5 rebounds, 4 assists, 2 steals, 1 turnover.


FRANCE (PRO A)

-John Cox (195-G-81) and his team, Sluc Nancy Basket, won against Cholet, 88-77, in Matchday 6 of the 2008-2009 season. Cox played 18 minutes and supported his team with 10 points, one rebound, 3 assists, and a steal



LNB selected reinforcement players for Semifinals - by Francisco Vega
Barquisimeto, Venezuela.- The four teams that advanced to the LNB 2008 Semifinals were allowed to select one player from the eliminated teams as reinforcement player for the upcoming series, as they had also done after the end of the regular season matches.

Duros de Lara selected center Amber Marin (208-C-81) from Graneros de Portuguesa to strenghten their paint, as they had previously done with the addition of Peter Kvietek (203-C-77). Meanwhile, Caciques de Trujillo opted for power forward Jhon Romero (199-F-85), also of Graneros de Portuguesa. Estudiantes de Guarico picked power forward and center Luis Julio (199-F-80), who had played the preliminary round with Petroleros de Falcon and later went to Colombia to play for San Andres Islanders. Centauros de Apure went with Roque Osorio (206-C-76), who belongs to Tiburones de Vargas but played in the Thirds of Finals round as reinforcement player of Graneros.



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

Women News

*****************************************************
  BELARUS - Women  


Standings - Women
Premier League Standings
 1. Minsk-2006 2-0 
 2. Berezina 2-0 
 3. Olimpia 2-0 
 4. Victoria 2-0 
 5. BrGU 0-2 
 6. RGUOR 0-2 
 7. Sozh Gomel 0-2 
 8. Mogilevchanka 0-2 


*****************************************************
  CHINA - Women  


Jiangsu 109, Shangdong 63 - by Eurobasket
I'm sure that Jiangsu (5-3) - and Strother Ann (191-F-83, college: Connecticut) - had been looking for an easy WCBA game while fighting along the middle ranks of the WCBA. They found one in Shangdong (4-4). Shangdong is affiliated with a lottery company, but Shangdong must have scratched but not won. They found themselves on the sad end of a 46-point defeat, losing 109-63 on the road.
Jiangsu dominated the early part of the game and led 64-40 at halftime in a fast paced game. By the end of the third quarter, Jiangsu led 95-48, and the only question was whether or not Jiangsu would set some sort of scoring record. However, Jiangsu fell short of the 120 point plateau, scoring 14 points in the fourth. (Fatigue might have set in.)
Jiansgu outshot Shangdong 62 percent to 35 percent. That's the game right there. No other analysis is really needed. Jiangsu scored more overall rebounds, but offensive rebounding and turnovers were basically the same. Jiangsu would send Shangdong to the free throw line 25 times, but the hapless Shangdong team would only hit 56 percent of their shots at the free throw line.
Four players would score in double figures for Jiangsu, led by Xu Song (190-C-88) with 29 points and six rebounds. Chen Xiaoja would score 23 points and five rebounds. The major player of the game was Bian Lan (181-G/F-86), who scored a double-double with 20 points, eight rebounds...and 16 assists. Whoa.
As for Strother Ann, she would score 11 points and four rebounds in 23 minutes of play. 'Severe winter Michelle' scored two points in four minutes of play. Funny...she didn't play in the last game. I wonder if this might be Michelle SNOW? (Chinese media is mum on the matter.)
For Shangdong, 'Si Secretary' led with 15 points and Sun Weiying (178-G-83) scored 13 points. Liu Yang had seven points and eight assists for Shangdong.

Courtesy of atlantadreamblog

Liaoning 74, Beijing 72 - by Eurobasket
Beijing (3-5) would have to go on the road against Liaoning (6-2), one of the great WCBA teams and hope for a win to keep them from falling too far behind in the race for the Chinese League championship. Tied at 72-72, it would be Liaoning that hit the final bucket to clinch their sixth win of the year, 74-72. The win kept Liaoning in second place, and Beijing fell to ninth place. With only the top eight teams going to the postseaon, Beijing has every reason to be concerned.
There aren't any writeups in the Chinese media as far as I know. I'm at work, and I can't spend too much time surfing the net. Oddly enough, the WCBA main website updates the score moment by moment - but not the boxscore. I could see that Liaoning and Beijing were tied 72-72, and then the game ended with Liaoning getting the victory - I just don't know who took the final winning shot for Liaoning. If I can find out, I'll tell you.
Beijing had control at halftime, winning the first two quarters and holding a 46-40 advantage over the home team. However, they began to let Liaoning back into the game. Liaoning crawled back to withing four after three quarters, behing 57-53. With that, Liaoning was close enough to make a fourth quarter run that gave them the game on a winning last-moment bucket by some unknown player.
Liaoning won the battle of shooting, 48 percent to 42 percent, but Beijing took more shots overall and hit more three pointers. Liaoning would win the overall rebounding battle, but Beijing won the more important part of the war, the offensive rebounding, scoring four more offensive boards.
However, Liaoning wno this game at the free throw line. They were 17-18 from the giveaway line, compared to a dismal 7-for-12 for Beijing. Ji Xiao hit almost as many free throws by herself (six) as did the entire Beijing team put together (seven).
Only six players scored for Liaoning on a team that only dressed nine players, but six players was all Liaoning needed. Ji Xiao had 21 points and seven reboundsd, along with Wang Ling with 20 points and seven rebounds. Tangela Smith had a double-double for Liaoning, scoring 11 points and 10 rebounds. She and By Ma Yu were the only players on Liaoning that played all forty minutes. Smith plays for the Phoenix Mercury in the WNBA.
As for Beijing, Lacy Jennifer (191-F/C-83, college: Pepperdine) scored 20 points and had seven rebounds and four steals. Zhang Fan added 14 points, three rebounds and 4 assists, and Sun Yu added 12 points for Beijing's effort.
My cut and paste function seems to have developed a glitch, so I can't do a search on Google China using Chinese characters. Bummer. Pictures will come if someone happens to think of posting them on a blog after attending a game.

P. S.: Here is an update on the final moments of the game. It's vague, but the translation is vague.
The score is 72-70 Beijing going into the final seconds.
Jia Guang of Liaoning steals the ball with 12 seconds left to tie the game.
Wang Ling of Liaoning is fouled with six seconds left.
Wang Ling hits the two free throws that make it 74-72 for Liaoning.
The media account from the WCBA website also makes it clear that Lacy Jennifer overshadowed Tangela Smith. I think.

Courtesy of atlantadreamblog

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


MacLeod leads MKB Euroleasing over Gambrinus - by Eurobasket News
MKB Euroleasing -Gambrinus 68:65

MKB Euroleasing and Gambrinus battled for the third win in EuroLeague Women Group B in Hungary. The local team celebrated 68:65 victory due to the third period. Kathleen Macleod (167-G-86) produced 17 points to lead all the winners. Jelena Milovanovic (191-F/C-89) collected 13 points and 10 rebounds, whilst Dora Horti (195-C-87) netted 12. Eva Viteckova (190-F-82) and Hana Horakova (182-F/G-79) top-scored for the team from Czech Republic with 13 points. MKB Euroleasing Sopron are now 3-2 while Gambrinus are 2-3.
It was a tough game and not only the final result can prove it. The hosts scored first four points in the game and then Eva Viteckova gave the visitors 14:10. Holt tied the game at 22:22 at the end of the first period. Gambrinus had 34:28 lead in the second period but Dora Horti tied the game again at 34:34 at the halftime.
It was the hosts' time to dominate the court as they controlled the game in the third frame. Krivacevic made a jump shot to make it 49:44 in favor of the home side at the end of the third quarter. Whitmore hit a jumper to close the gap to 52:50. In the end Kathleen Macleod nailed a three and Dora Horti added a lay-up the next trip down the floor to go in front by eight. Hana Horakova and Fegyverneky scored the last points for the visiotrs that lost 68:65.

MKB Euroleasing: Kathleen Macleod 17, Jelena Milovanovic 13+10 rebs, Dora Horti 12
Gambrinus: Eva Viteckova 13, Hana Horakova 13

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


Standings
Eurocup Standings
Group A
 1. Dynamo M. 3-0 
 2. Targoviste 2-1 
 3. AZS Gorzow 1-3 
 4. MBK Ruz. 1-3 
Group B
 1. Challes 3-0 
 2. Dynamo K. 2-1 
 3. Sf.Gheorghe 1-2 
 4. Bnot Hash. 0-3 
Group C
 1. Ramla 3-0 
 2. Rivas Ecopolis 2-1 
 3. Crvena Zv. 1-2 
 4. Dunav 0-3 
Group D
 1. Szeged 3-0 
 2. U.Neuchatel 2-1 
 3. Solna Vikings 1-2 
 4. Foton 0-3 
Group E
 1. Athinaikos 3-0 
 2. San Jose 2-1 
 3. Panionios 1-2 
 4. Ragusa 0-3 
Group F
 1. Gospic 2-1 
 2. Taranto 2-1 
 3. AEL 2-1 
 4. Gran Canaria 0-3 
Group G
 1. Galatasaray 3-0 
 2. Aris H. 2-1 
 3. Mondeville 1-2 
 4. Buducnost 0-3 
Group H
 1. EBE Ibiza-PDV 3-0 
 2. Trutnov 2-1 
 3. Arvi 1-2 
 4. ICIM Arad 0-3 
Group I
 1. Cesis 2-1 
 2. Lavezzini PA 2-1 
 3. Esperides 2-1 
 4. Zeljeznicar 0-3 
Group J
 1. Tarbes 3-0 
 2. Ribera 1-2 
 3. Extrugasa 1-2 
 4. Olivais 1-2 
Group K
 1. Chevakata 3-0 
 2. Hemofarm 2-1 
 3. Lemminkain. 1-2 
 4. AD Vagos 0-3 
Group L
 1. Dexia 3-0 
 2. Spartak N. 2-1 
 3. Botas 1-2 
 4. BC Star 0-3 


*****************************************************
  EUROLEAGUE - Women  


Euroleague Round: 5 (Regular Season) - by Eurobasket News
Montpellier - Spartak V MR 70-93
Spartak Moscow Region had a fabulous road victoy in France over Lattes Montpellier. The defending champions produced 93:70 to improve to 4-1 record in Group D of EuroLeague. Sylvia Fowles erupted for 25 points and also pulled down 17 rebounds. Jackson Lauren scored 12 and Shchegoleva Tatiana added 11. Mosch Sheana replied with 21 points in defeat.

Familia Schio - Fenerbahce 68-73
Fenerbahce clinched their third success of the EuroLeague Women in Italy. The Turkish team overcame Beretta Famila in Schio 68:73. Esmeral Tuncluer led Fener in their road triumph with 20 points. Yilmaz Nevriye and Bakircioglu Melike both added 10 for 3-2 record. Antibe Nicole finished the night with 16 points in the losing effort.

Wisla Can-Pak - Halcon A.Per. 67-77
Halcon Avenida won the battle in Poland in Round 5 of EuroLeague Qualifying Round. The Spanish team had a 67:77 road victory to improve to 4-1. Michelle Snow led the winners with 24 points and 13 rebounds. Le'Coe Willingham nailed 16, while De Mondt posted 10. Ewelina Kobryn ended up with 22 points in defeat, whilst Dominique Canty and Sladana Maksimovic posted 13 each.

MKB Eurol. - Gambrinus 68-65
MKB Euroleasing and Gambrinus battled for the third win in EuroLeague Women Group B in Hungary. The local team celebrated 68:65 victory due to the third period. Kathleen Macleod produced 17 points to lead all the winners. Jelena Milovanovic collected 13 points and 10 rebounds, whilst Dora Horti netted 12. Eva Viteckova and Hana Horakova top-scored for the team from Czech Republic with 13 points. MKB Euroleasing Sopron are now 3-2 while Gambrinus are 2-3.

Sibenik - Ros Casares 72-83
Sibenik and Ros Casares struggled for the third win in EuroLeague Group C as the latter posted 72:83 road win. Local Valdemoro Amaya led the winners with 24 points and 5 assists. Aguilar Elisa netted 13 and Brazilian De Souza Erika scored 12. Gardin Kerri and Jurcevic Ivana ended up with 20 points apiece for the home side.

TEO Vilnius - M.Broker 72-49
TEO Vilnius smashed Maxima Broker 72:49 in EuroLeague Women Group D. Slovakian team has some problems in the last games not only in Euroleague but in the National arena as well. Crystal Langhorne had 19 points and 15 rebounds as her team reached 4-1 record. Quinn Noelle supported her with 18 points and Wilson Lindsey scored 14. Frohlich Linda was the only player for the guests to reach double digit, as she posted 11 points.

Besiktas - Nadezhda O. 89-81
Besiktas Cola Turka overcame Nadezhda 89:81 in the fifth game in the of EuroLeague Qualifying Round. Trailing by 13 points early in the second quarter the hosts stormed back and beat Russian team. Milica Dabovic paced all the winners with 21 points. Laura Harper and Alexis Hornbuckle followed her with 19 points each as Besiktas Cola Turka improved to 2-3. Anastasiya Veremeenko exploded with 28 points and massive 20 rebounds for the guests, whilst Shameka Christon and Olga Ovcharenko had 17 apiece.

ESB Villeneu. - TTT Riga 71-53
French Lille Metropole celebrated the initial win in the EuroLeague Women as they beat Latvian strugglers TTT Riga 71:53. Robert Geraldine top-scored for the winners with 21 points and 15 rebounds. Drljaca Ljubica nailed 15 and Anderson Jolene posted 11. Carson Essence finished the night with 14 points for the Latvian side.

Umana Reyer - CSKA 66-63
Umana Reyer remained undefeated even after the game against CSKA. Italian team proved the ambition and upset one of the favorites of Euroleague 66:63. Hayden-Johnson Vanessa top-scored for the winners with 19 points and 13 rebounds. Sottana Giorgia netted 14, while Ballardini Simona and Jocic Daliborka had 9 each. Douglas Katie produced 23 points in defeat and Wauters Ann collected 18 points and 12 boards.



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


Athinaikos too strong for Panionios in EuroCup - by Eurobasket News
Athinaikos BC - Panionios G.S.S. 73-56

In the game between two Greek teams, Athinaikos BC celebrated against Panionios G.S.S. jumping on 4-0 in Group F. LaToya Davis (186-F/C-84, college: Texas Tech) shined for the hosts netting 20 points and pulling down 8 rebounds. Polymnia Sarekgou (185-G-72) helped with 15 points while Katie Gearlds (186-G/F-84, college: Purdue) stopped on 10. Sheri Lynette Sam (183-F/G-74, agency: Ronsport, college: Vanderbilt) led the scorers in Panionios G.S.S. with 16 points. Lori Nero (188-F/C-80, agency: Merit Sports, college: Louisville) had 3 points less than her. Their team dropped on 1-3.
However, at the very beginning it seemed that Panionios G.S.S. will take this one. Sheri Lynette Sam and her teammates took care for 4-10 and later 14-22. Until the end of the first stanza Athinaikos succeeded to close the gap on 4 points with mini 4-0 run. The hosts were much better in third frame. After 33-30, Athinaikos made magnificent 15-0 run. Panionios was not able to recover of it until the end of the game. Athinaikos had nice third quarter touching plus 20 in 30th minute. Final period belonged to visitors, but they needed a way more than 13-15.

Athinaikos BC: LaToya Davis 20+8 boards, Polymnia Sarekgou 15+4 boards, Katie Gearlds 10
Panionios G.S.S: Sheri Lynette Sam 16+6 boards, Lori Nero 13+5 boards

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


MacLeod leads MKB Euroleasing over Gambrinus - by Eurobasket News
MKB Euroleasing -Gambrinus 68:65

MKB Euroleasing and Gambrinus battled for the third win in EuroLeague Women Group B in Hungary. The local team celebrated 68:65 victory due to the third period. Kathleen Macleod (167-G-86) produced 17 points to lead all the winners. Jelena Milovanovic (191-F/C-89) collected 13 points and 10 rebounds, whilst Dora Horti (195-C-87) netted 12. Eva Viteckova (190-F-82) and Hana Horakova (182-F/G-79) top-scored for the team from Czech Republic with 13 points. MKB Euroleasing Sopron are now 3-2 while Gambrinus are 2-3.
It was a tough game and not only the final result can prove it. The hosts scored first four points in the game and then Eva Viteckova gave the visitors 14:10. Holt tied the game at 22:22 at the end of the first period. Gambrinus had 34:28 lead in the second period but Dora Horti tied the game again at 34:34 at the halftime.
It was the hosts' time to dominate the court as they controlled the game in the third frame. Krivacevic made a jump shot to make it 49:44 in favor of the home side at the end of the third quarter. Whitmore hit a jumper to close the gap to 52:50. In the end Kathleen Macleod nailed a three and Dora Horti added a lay-up the next trip down the floor to go in front by eight. Hana Horakova and Fegyverneky scored the last points for the visiotrs that lost 68:65.

MKB Euroleasing: Kathleen Macleod 17, Jelena Milovanovic 13+10 rebs, Dora Horti 12
Gambrinus: Eva Viteckova 13, Hana Horakova 13

*****************************************************
  MONTENEGRO - Women  


Galatasaray smashed ZKK Buducnost in EuroCup - by Eurobasket News
Galatasaray - ZKK Buducnost 85-57

Galatasaray trashed ZKK Buducnost at home staying perfect after 4 games in Group G. Montenegrin representative will have to look for some other chance in order to celebrate the first win.
The hosts controlled rhythm of the game from the early beginning. Actually, Buducnost managed to stay close in the first quarter (23-19) but during the next one Galatasaray demonstrated its real power. Marina Kress (193-F/C-80) was unstoppable at the offensive end leading her team to plus 15 at the half time. Nothing has changed after that. Galatasaray's defense once again was on a pretty good level resulting with just 10 points by the visiting team in third quarter. Marina Kress and her teammates drained 20 entering into the last 10 minutes with huge lead, 63-38. The rest of the game was just a formality.
Marina Kress was central figure of this match as she played 34 minutes pouring in 22 points and grabbing 14 boards. At the same time Kress dished out 6 assists. Yasemen Saylar (174-G-90) also was on a decent level collecting 16 points and 5 assists. Korel Engin (200-C-80) helped the winners with 14 pts plus 8 boards. ZKK Buducnost got 18 points from Maja Milutinovic (176-G-87) and she was the only one with double digits in scoring for Montenegrin representative.

Galatasaray: Marina Kress 22+14 rebs+6 as, Yasemen Saylar 16+5 as, Korel Engin 14+8 boards
ZKK Buducnost: Maja Milutinovic 18

*****************************************************
  POLAND - Women  


MBK Ruzomberok grabs the first win in EuroCup - by Eurobasket News
MBK Ruzomberok - AZS Gorzow 91-81

MBK Ruzomberok finally made it in EuroCup this season. After three consecutive defeats, Ruza managed to beat AZS Gorzow mostly owing to Tye'sha Fluker (196-C-84, college: Tennessee), who demonstrated wonderful performance. She spent 32 minutes on the court collecting 25 points, 6 boards and 4 assists. Simona Podesvova (186-F-83) also shined for the winners adding 15 points and 8 rebs while Megan Duffy (170-G-84, agency: LBM Management, college: Notre Dame) helped with 13 points and 5 rebs. Katerina Zohnova (179-F-84, agency: Promotex) was totally the best player for the loosing side netting 26 points. Lindsay Taylor (203-C-81, college: UCSB) contributed with 15 points and 7 boards.
MBK Ruzomberok opened this game with the strong willingness to resolve question about the winner as soon as possible. Tye'sha Fluker was in a game mood and it resulted with great 29-13 already in the first quarter. AZS Gorzow didn't want to give up creating 16-25 during the following ten minutes. However, it was enough only for minus 7 at the half time. Second half was almost leveled. Visitors tried to come closer even more but MBK Ruzomberok each time answered with few successful possessions. Actually the hosts extended its lead even more in third frame 27-24. Last ten minutes ended 19-19 meaning that Ruza celebrated decent 10-point win. Both teams have the same score now 1-3.

MBK Ruzomberok: Tye'sha Fluker 25+6 boards+4 as, Simona Podesvova 15+8 boards, Megan Duffy 13+5 boards
AZS Gorzow: Katerina Zohnova 26+4 as, Lindsay Taylor 15+7 boards

Halcon Avenida climbs on top - by Eurobasket News
Wisla Can-Pack -Halcon Avenida 67:77

Halcon Avenida won the battle in Poland in Round 5 of EuroLeague Qualifying Round. The Spanish team had a 67:77 road victory to improve to 4-1. Michelle Snow (196-C-80, agency: Merit Sports, college: Tennessee) led the winners with 24 points and 13 rebounds. Le'Coe Willingham (183-C-81, college: Auburn) nailed 16, while De Mondt posted 10. Ewelina Kobryn (193-C-82) ended up with 22 points in defeat, whilst Dominique Canty (175-G/F-77, agency: Merit Sports, college: Alabama) and Sladana Maksimovic (193-C-84) posted 13 each.
Wisla had begun the game well jumping out to an 18-8 lead. Le'Coe Willingham however closed a 10-0 run from the guests and Sladana Maksimovic brought 20:18 after the first ten minutes. In the second period the hosts remained in front until the last seconds. Michelle Snow posted last two in the first half as the teams went to the lockers for 39:39.
A 6-0 run in the third period helped the guests to take 57:50 advantage. Skerovic made two free throws at the end of the third. Ewelina Kobryn buried a jumper for a 65:64 Wisla lead. Dominique Canty's two free throws for Wisla left the home side trailing 71:67 with 3:25 remaining. Another 6-0 run closed the game as Halcon Avenida won the battle in Poland.

Wisla Can-Pack: Ewelina Kobryn 22, Dominique Canty 13, Sladana Maksimovic 13
Halcon Avenida: Michelle Snow 24+13 rebs, Le'Coe Willingham 16, De Mondt 10

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


Liga Feminina round 3 - by Luis Rocha
Only 4 games in this round, Povoa-Vagos will be played later. The most important match was played in Aores, B.Viagem hosted Alges. It was not a great game (when you talk about defense), but it sure was thrilling. B.Viagem started very strong and made Alges be on their trail for long. Little by little the foreigners step up and come very close on the scoreboard, but the deeper roster from the home team prevailed, and they won 91-83.Alges needs to hire another inside player to even things up in the painted area. CAB smashed Santarem at home, playing the game like it was a simple practice, 77-47. Barcelos at home made a lousy performance an d let Olivais play like they wanted, in a smooth and simple way, thet provides them an easy win 73-41. Uniao won 69-59 playing at home against Esgueira. Not an easy match, but things were always under control for the home team. The MVP of the round was Danielle Hood (185-F/C-86, agency: LBM Management, college: Hartford) (CAB), she scored 32 points and grabbed 11 rebounds.

ESSA changes foreign player - by Luis Rocha
Lina Brown wasnt able to come to ESSA , due to a unexpected pregnancy. The board of ESSA tried to solve that matter, and started looking to a replacement. They close a deal with Nordia Henry (190-F/C-86, agency: Vision Sports Management, college: NC-Wilmington) a tall center that was playing in the Czech Republik. Shes got nice numbers from her college years, and can be the add that coach Nuno Manaia is looking to help in a decisive way its team. The roster was really in need of a big woman to play inside and help the team in points and rebounds.

Liga Feminina round 4 - by Luis Rocha
Played on sunday after the third round (played saturday), this was a quiet round. CAB at home made another easy game , this time against Esgueira, and won 99-52, no story to tell here...For the second aday in a row Barcelos played at their place , but missed another win. The opponent was Vagos that presented themselves fresh (they didnt play the day before...), and although Barcelos played better, they still finish beated by 57-83. Olivais went to Povoa, and get another win, Povoa struggled hard, but thres more quality in the bench of Olivais, and that makes all the difference when the hottest moments arrive.The final result was 57-68. B.Viagem also played a game against a fresh opponent (ESSA) and after a good start, they think that the all affair was wrapped and slow down a bit, big mistake, the young players of ESSA keep on working hard, and levelled things up at 40-40 in the third quarter. Time to coach Couto make their players 'rise and shine', and the home team step up again finishing 67-58, on a game that seemed easy but turns out to be thougher. Finally Uniao had great difficulties to pass Santarem athome. They won 57-54, but things could have aso gone to the foreigners. Santarem can only blame themselves to not win the match, they played very well in defense, but they miss some important balls in some strange turn-overs. The nervousness of being close to the win , made them loose the game. The MVP of the round was Lakethia Hampton (183-F/C-83) (B:Viagem), she scored 18 points and grabbed 16 rebounds, a solid player that continues to play very well, in hers second season in Portugal.

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


Sf. Gheorghe outsmarts Dynamo Kursk 70-64 - by Eurobasket News
Sf. Gheorghe - Dynamo Kursk 70-64

Sf. Gheorghe was better than Dynamo Kursk at home thus both teams are on 2-2 now. The only undefeated squad in Group B is Challes, who plays its Round 4 game tomorrow.
Sf. Gheorghe had two very motivated players today and it was more than enough for the victory. The first one is Ildiko Vass (178-G-78), who top-scored for the winners with 17 points. Judit Kajdacsi (191-C-79, agency: Laszlo Vinko Services) is the second one and she actually was totally the best player of this game. Kajdacsi spent almost the entire time on the floor netting 12 points and pulling down amazing 23 rebounds. 12 of those were at the offensive end. Varvara Psareva (194-C-85) shined for Dynamo Kursk adding 14 points and 8 rebounds. Irena Vizbariene (196-F/C-77) had 13 pts plus 9 rebs while Anastasia Bocharova (180-F-77) contributed with 11 points.
After 24-23 in the first quarter, Sf. Gheorghe put into the fifth gear during the next period 22-13. The hosts succeeded to set the margin on 12 points at the end of third quarter but they somehow stopped after that. Dynamo intensified defense letting Sf. Gheorghe to score just 5 points in the last frame. However, visitors also weren't so productive in offense stopping on 11 pts, what was not enough for any closer than 6 points. Sf. Gheorghe will meet Bnot Hasharon in the next round. Dynamo waits Challes.

Sf. Gheorghe: Ildiko Vass 17, Judit Kajdacsi 12+23 boards
Dynamo Kursk: Varvara Psareva 14+8 boards, Irena Vizbariene 13+9 boards, Anastasia Bocharova 11

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


Sf. Gheorghe outsmarts Dynamo Kursk 70-64 - by Eurobasket News
Sf. Gheorghe - Dynamo Kursk 70-64

Sf. Gheorghe was better than Dynamo Kursk at home thus both teams are on 2-2 now. The only undefeated squad in Group B is Challes, who plays its Round 4 game tomorrow.
Sf. Gheorghe had two very motivated players today and it was more than enough for the victory. The first one is Ildiko Vass (178-G-78), who top-scored for the winners with 17 points. Judit Kajdacsi (191-C-79, agency: Laszlo Vinko Services) is the second one and she actually was totally the best player of this game. Kajdacsi spent almost the entire time on the floor netting 12 points and pulling down amazing 23 rebounds. 12 of those were at the offensive end. Varvara Psareva (194-C-85) shined for Dynamo Kursk adding 14 points and 8 rebounds. Irena Vizbariene (196-F/C-77) had 13 pts plus 9 rebs while Anastasia Bocharova (180-F-77) contributed with 11 points.
After 24-23 in the first quarter, Sf. Gheorghe put into the fifth gear during the next period 22-13. The hosts succeeded to set the margin on 12 points at the end of third quarter but they somehow stopped after that. Dynamo intensified defense letting Sf. Gheorghe to score just 5 points in the last frame. However, visitors also weren't so productive in offense stopping on 11 pts, what was not enough for any closer than 6 points. Sf. Gheorghe will meet Bnot Hasharon in the next round. Dynamo waits Challes.

Sf. Gheorghe: Ildiko Vass 17, Judit Kajdacsi 12+23 boards
Dynamo Kursk: Varvara Psareva 14+8 boards, Irena Vizbariene 13+9 boards, Anastasia Bocharova 11

Besiktas Cola Turka keeps Nadezhda winless - by Eurobasket News
Besiktas Cola Turka -Nadezhda 89:81

Besiktas Cola Turka overcame Nadezhda 89:81 in the fifth game in the of EuroLeague Qualifying Round. Trailing by 13 points early in the second quarter the hosts stormed back and beat Russian team. Milica Dabovic (175-G-82) paced all the winners with 21 points. Laura Harper (193-F/C-86, college: Maryland) and Alexis Hornbuckle (180-G-85, college: Tennessee) followed her with 19 points each as Besiktas Cola Turka improved to 2-3. Anastasiya Veremeenko (192-F/C-87) exploded with 28 points and massive 20 rebounds for the guests, whilst Shameka Christon (186-G/F-82, college: Arkansas) and Olga Ovcharenko (184-F-79) had 17 apiece.
Milica Dabovic nailed first points from the arc and Alexis Hornbuckle gave the hosts 5:0. Nadezhda however replied immediately and played better in the opening quarter. After 23:18 Nadezhda finished the first frame with 5-0 run for 28:18. Tamane brought the visitors the biggest, 33:20 lead, but then the visitors had difficulties staying on race. Zanze and Besiktas went on a 14-1 run to tie the game at 34:34. Alexis Hornbuckle sent the teams to the lockers for 50:50.
A great defense and good offensive skills gave Besiktas Cola Turka 23-11 in the third that led to 73:61 at the end of the period. The advantage ballooned to 84:64 midway through the fourth quarter, but Nadezhda was managed to reduce a bit. Laura Harper stopped the game at 89:81 as Besiktas Cola Turka overcame Nadezhda in the of EuroLeague Qualifying Round.

Besiktas Cola Turka: Milica Dabovic 21, Laura Harper 19, Alexis Hornbuckle 19
Nadezhda: Anastasiya Veremeenko 28+20 rebs, Shameka Christon 17, Olga Ovcharenko 17

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


MBK Ruzomberok grabs the first win in EuroCup - by Eurobasket News
MBK Ruzomberok - AZS Gorzow 91-81

MBK Ruzomberok finally made it in EuroCup this season. After three consecutive defeats, Ruza managed to beat AZS Gorzow mostly owing to Tye'sha Fluker (196-C-84, college: Tennessee), who demonstrated wonderful performance. She spent 32 minutes on the court collecting 25 points, 6 boards and 4 assists. Simona Podesvova (186-F-83) also shined for the winners adding 15 points and 8 rebs while Megan Duffy (170-G-84, agency: LBM Management, college: Notre Dame) helped with 13 points and 5 rebs. Katerina Zohnova (179-F-84, agency: Promotex) was totally the best player for the loosing side netting 26 points. Lindsay Taylor (203-C-81, college: UCSB) contributed with 15 points and 7 boards.
MBK Ruzomberok opened this game with the strong willingness to resolve question about the winner as soon as possible. Tye'sha Fluker was in a game mood and it resulted with great 29-13 already in the first quarter. AZS Gorzow didn't want to give up creating 16-25 during the following ten minutes. However, it was enough only for minus 7 at the half time. Second half was almost leveled. Visitors tried to come closer even more but MBK Ruzomberok each time answered with few successful possessions. Actually the hosts extended its lead even more in third frame 27-24. Last ten minutes ended 19-19 meaning that Ruza celebrated decent 10-point win. Both teams have the same score now 1-3.

MBK Ruzomberok: Tye'sha Fluker 25+6 boards+4 as, Simona Podesvova 15+8 boards, Megan Duffy 13+5 boards
AZS Gorzow: Katerina Zohnova 26+4 as, Lindsay Taylor 15+7 boards

*****************************************************
  SOUTH KOREA - Women  


Standings - WKBL
WKBL Standings
 1. S-Birds 10-1 
 2. Redwings 7-4 
 3. Bichumi 7-4 
 4. KB Savers 4-7 
 5. Cool Cats 3-8 
 6. Woori Hansae 2-9 


*****************************************************
  SPAIN - Women  


Gran Canaria fires Flavia Luiza de Souza - by Ivan Villar
Canarian team announced that Flavia de Souza (187-F-82) won't continue there. Player hasn't showed her best face in island team. Until the moment they are having a lot of ups and downs. Nowday managers are searching for good center in the market. Tonight Gran Canaria has a hard game of FIBA Eurocup.against croatian team of Gospic. They need to win to survive in european competition. Game can be watched by TV channel of Spanish Federation (Febtv)

Halcon Avenida climbs on top - by Eurobasket News
Wisla Can-Pack -Halcon Avenida 67:77

Halcon Avenida won the battle in Poland in Round 5 of EuroLeague Qualifying Round. The Spanish team had a 67:77 road victory to improve to 4-1. Michelle Snow (196-C-80, agency: Merit Sports, college: Tennessee) led the winners with 24 points and 13 rebounds. Le'Coe Willingham (183-C-81, college: Auburn) nailed 16, while De Mondt posted 10. Ewelina Kobryn (193-C-82) ended up with 22 points in defeat, whilst Dominique Canty (175-G/F-77, agency: Merit Sports, college: Alabama) and Sladana Maksimovic (193-C-84) posted 13 each.
Wisla had begun the game well jumping out to an 18-8 lead. Le'Coe Willingham however closed a 10-0 run from the guests and Sladana Maksimovic brought 20:18 after the first ten minutes. In the second period the hosts remained in front until the last seconds. Michelle Snow posted last two in the first half as the teams went to the lockers for 39:39.
A 6-0 run in the third period helped the guests to take 57:50 advantage. Skerovic made two free throws at the end of the third. Ewelina Kobryn buried a jumper for a 65:64 Wisla lead. Dominique Canty's two free throws for Wisla left the home side trailing 71:67 with 3:25 remaining. Another 6-0 run closed the game as Halcon Avenida won the battle in Poland.

Wisla Can-Pack: Ewelina Kobryn 22, Dominique Canty 13, Sladana Maksimovic 13
Halcon Avenida: Michelle Snow 24+13 rebs, Le'Coe Willingham 16, De Mondt 10

*****************************************************
  TURKEY - Women  


Galatasaray smashed ZKK Buducnost in EuroCup - by Eurobasket News
Galatasaray - ZKK Buducnost 85-57

Galatasaray trashed ZKK Buducnost at home staying perfect after 4 games in Group G. Montenegrin representative will have to look for some other chance in order to celebrate the first win.
The hosts controlled rhythm of the game from the early beginning. Actually, Buducnost managed to stay close in the first quarter (23-19) but during the next one Galatasaray demonstrated its real power. Marina Kress (193-F/C-80) was unstoppable at the offensive end leading her team to plus 15 at the half time. Nothing has changed after that. Galatasaray's defense once again was on a pretty good level resulting with just 10 points by the visiting team in third quarter. Marina Kress and her teammates drained 20 entering into the last 10 minutes with huge lead, 63-38. The rest of the game was just a formality.
Marina Kress was central figure of this match as she played 34 minutes pouring in 22 points and grabbing 14 boards. At the same time Kress dished out 6 assists. Yasemen Saylar (174-G-90) also was on a decent level collecting 16 points and 5 assists. Korel Engin (200-C-80) helped the winners with 14 pts plus 8 boards. ZKK Buducnost got 18 points from Maja Milutinovic (176-G-87) and she was the only one with double digits in scoring for Montenegrin representative.

Galatasaray: Marina Kress 22+14 rebs+6 as, Yasemen Saylar 16+5 as, Korel Engin 14+8 boards
ZKK Buducnost: Maja Milutinovic 18

Besiktas Cola Turka keeps Nadezhda winless - by Eurobasket News
Besiktas Cola Turka -Nadezhda 89:81

Besiktas Cola Turka overcame Nadezhda 89:81 in the fifth game in the of EuroLeague Qualifying Round. Trailing by 13 points early in the second quarter the hosts stormed back and beat Russian team. Milica Dabovic (175-G-82) paced all the winners with 21 points. Laura Harper (193-F/C-86, college: Maryland) and Alexis Hornbuckle (180-G-85, college: Tennessee) followed her with 19 points each as Besiktas Cola Turka improved to 2-3. Anastasiya Veremeenko (192-F/C-87) exploded with 28 points and massive 20 rebounds for the guests, whilst Shameka Christon (186-G/F-82, college: Arkansas) and Olga Ovcharenko (184-F-79) had 17 apiece.
Milica Dabovic nailed first points from the arc and Alexis Hornbuckle gave the hosts 5:0. Nadezhda however replied immediately and played better in the opening quarter. After 23:18 Nadezhda finished the first frame with 5-0 run for 28:18. Tamane brought the visitors the biggest, 33:20 lead, but then the visitors had difficulties staying on race. Zanze and Besiktas went on a 14-1 run to tie the game at 34:34. Alexis Hornbuckle sent the teams to the lockers for 50:50.
A great defense and good offensive skills gave Besiktas Cola Turka 23-11 in the third that led to 73:61 at the end of the period. The advantage ballooned to 84:64 midway through the fourth quarter, but Nadezhda was managed to reduce a bit. Laura Harper stopped the game at 89:81 as Besiktas Cola Turka overcame Nadezhda in the of EuroLeague Qualifying Round.

Besiktas Cola Turka: Milica Dabovic 21, Laura Harper 19, Alexis Hornbuckle 19
Nadezhda: Anastasiya Veremeenko 28+20 rebs, Shameka Christon 17, Olga Ovcharenko 17