EUROBASKET NEWS REPORT - 12/13/2008

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Men News

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  ABA   


Gwizzlies announces rigid schelude - by Richard
The American Basketball Association Georgia Gwizzlies will play a rigid pro basketball schedule over the next seven weeks. December 21 the team plays Knoxville and December 27 travel to Owensboro,Kentucky to play Jay Sills and his Kentucky Bison's. On January 2 the team will visit Scott Lumley no.1 ranked Nashville Broncos',the next day travel to Knoxville and Sunday concluded the weekend against a tough CBA Kentucky Miners team at 4:00pm est. January 10 the team will open at home against Knoxville. Atlanta Vision will visit the Gwizzlies on January 17 in a rematch from last season cross-town rivalry.MLK Day January 19 will be against Daniel Hicks and his West Virginia Wilds. January 24 and 25 the Gwizzlies will revisit Knoxville Thunderbolts. The team will close the month of January out with one more game against the Atlanta Vision. www.gwizzliesbasketball.com

Courtesy of Georgia Gwizzlies

ABA says farewell to Gallup and San Diego, welcomes Hampton Roads, VA - by Gianni Pascucci

The ABA team line-up had some last-time changes due to bad economy. According with an e-mail concersation with league boss Joe Newman , we are able to confirm that both the Gallup Talons and San Diego Wildcats were moved to 2009 in consequence of financial straits of their owners. Instead, the league has added at the last time the New Hope Trailblazers, a team based in Hampton Roads, VA. This last team was originally scheduled to play in 2009, but the ownership agreed to fill one of the voids in the line-up. The team is owned and coached by Emory Addison, Jr., the President of the Hope Youth Vision Community Youth Organization, a not-for-profit organization. The coach assistant is Quincy D. Hinton, who helped Addison to put together a competitive team in very few days. For more information, call 757 470 7865 or email emory_addison@yahoo.com




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  AUSTRIA   


Roster changes - by Stefan Heinrich
UBSC Graz sent the Bosnian Ivica Markovic (202-C-79) home after the Austrian National Team player Christian Kollik (203-G/F-80, agency: Court Side, college: Rice) is fully recovered and ready to play. Markovic had 3.0ppg and 1.7rpg during his time in Graz.

The Xion Dukes Klosterneurburg brought Marquis Wright (203-F/C-80, college: Alabama) back for the rest of this season. Wright already played for the Dukes in the last season and he had 10.8ppg and 5.4rpg and they also decided to send Demetrius Williams (206-F-81, agency: N.E.T., college: Loyola, IL) home again after 1 game. Williams scored 1 point and grabbed 4 rebounds during this game which was to less to convice the management.

The Furstenfeld Panthers decided to send James Sullinger (196-G-82, agency: 540 Sports, college: Ohio St.) home after 8 games. Sullinger had 10.9ppg and 4.7rpg during this 8 games and the Panthers found a new guy already. It will be the Guard Tony Gipson (186-G-82, college: LSU) Gipson will be the first time in Austria, but he played 1 season in Europe so far. He was in the Netherlands where he won the Championship with Amsterdam in 2004-2005. After that he played in the D-League, where he was released before the beginng of this season from the Reno Brighorns.

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  BRAZIL   


Minas make it to Final Four of Fiba Americas League - by Eurobasket News
Minas won Group A of Fiba Americas League preliminary round and paved their way into Final Four of the tournament. Minas shared a 2-1 record with Merengueros from Dominican Republic and Puerto Rican Capitanes de Arecibo but appeared on top and collected a ticket to the Final Four.
Puerto Rican Arecibo welcomed the Group A action. Minas got to an impressive start as they knocked down Merengueros 90:65 for the first win. Murilo da Rosa (207-C-83, agency: Arik Krayn Services) scored 22 points and grabbed 8 boards to lead the Brazilian team. Luiz Felipe Campos (192-G-80) added 17 points for the winners. Danny Tavares (206-F-84, agency: Passing Lane, college: Cal.St.-Dominguez H.) responded with 14 points for the Dominican side.
Minas continued to win as they toppled Pioneros de Quintana 93:74 in the second round of the contest. Minas stunned their opponents with a 31:14 first frame and never looked back en route to the second straight victory. Joseph Shipp (197-F-81, agency: Octagon, college: California) came up with 21 points and 7 boards for the winning team. Murilo da Rosa provided 17 points and 8 boards in the win.
The winning streak was snapped by the hosting Capitanes de Arecibo but it did not prevent Minas from making it to the next round. Capitanes de Arecibo had to win by at least 15 points to overcome Minas in the ladder but they stopped a whisker away from the goal. Buster Figeroa missed one free throw with 11 seconds left in regulation and Capitanes won by just 14 points to seal Final Four birth for Minas. Joseph Shipp produced 23 points for the Brazilian team in the game. Murilo da Rosa added 22 points in defeat.

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  CBA   


Patroons' Home Opener postponed - by Gianni Pascucci
In an official release, the Albany Patroons announced that their Home Opening Games, originally scheduled for tonight and tomorrow night, have been postponed due to inclement weather. The Patroons will play their first home game of the season on Sunday, December 14th at 7:05 pm against the ABA's New Hope Trailblazers of Hampton Roads, VA. The second game is currenty being rescheduled and will be announced early next week. According with local media, the truth is a little bit different: after that the CBA announced that the first month of the season would be played against teams from the ABA, Jim Coyne , the Patroons general manager, before said that his team should have met the ABA travelling team Tri-City Racers, based in Tennessee. Then, he annonced that the Patroons would have met the Jersey Express, but a winter storm was expected to continue over Northeast. To sum up, till yesterday, it was totally unknown WHO would have played the Patroons in their home opener, and it is clear that the CBA (or the rest of it) has been quickly infected by the ABA desease, made of no-show teams, sudden frachises disappear and postponed games. It is really worth to go on a 3 teams league in this way ? (We remember that the Pittsburgh Xplosion has yet folded and that CBA defending champion Lawton Fort Sill Cavalry have declined to play any games against the ABA but will play against CBA teams in January)...

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  CHINA   


Xinjiang Defeats Liaoning as Dongguan Drops Two Games Behind - by Arthur Volbert
League-leading Xinjiang ran its record to 11-1 with a 96-75 drubbing of importless Liaoning. Mulati had 31 points, 6 rebounds, 3 assists and 3 steals, playing all 48 minutes. All five Liaoning starters played over 40 minutes in this blowout, for unfathomable reasons. Juan Mendez had 24 points and 12 rebounds and Myron Allen had 26 points, 6 assists and 6 steals. Xu Guochong had 13 points and Mengke Bateer had 2 points, 16 rebounds, 5 assists and 5 blocks. Zhang Qingpeng led Liaoning with 26 points and 5 steals. Li Xiaoxu had 13 points and 7 rebounds. Lu Wei added 14 points as Liaoning gave 8 players substantial playing time. Yang Ming returned from injury with 9 points in 33 minutes.

Muoneke Gabe (200-F-78, college: Texas) scored 41 points, grabbed 13 rebounds and dished out 5 assists as Yunnan gained its second victory, shocking second-place Dongguan 118-113. Dongguan appears to have lost the services of Jamal Sampson, leaving Michael Harris as its only import playing. Yang Huai scored 24 points for Yunnan and Zhao Anan scored 15. Wang Xinkai added 12 points, 3 assists and 4 steals. Despite the CBA's push to add players from elsewhere in Asia, Wang, from Taiwan, is the only non-Chinese Asian who is making any significant contribution to his team. With its loss, Dongguan dropped to two games behind Xinjiang with a 9-3 record. Zhang Kai had 18 points and 11 rebounds in 23 minutes. Song Kangming had 17 points and 6 rebounds. Meng Duo scored 19 and Qiu Biao scored 17. Harris had 14 points and 12 rebounds. The way the CBA is playing this year a team that loses one of its imports for any period of time is in trouble.

Zhu Fangyu had 28 points, 5 rebounds and 4 assist as Guangdong edged Bayi 88-87. Guangdong gained a share of second place with the victory. Tyler Amaya added 18 points and Du Feng had 15 points and 8 rebounds. Liu Xiaoyu had 10 points, 4 rebounds, 5 assists and 5 steals. Jason Dixon grabbed 12 rebounds. Wang Zhizhi led Bayi with 28 points and 13 rebounds. Li Ke scored 15 and Mo Ke scored 14, adding 9 rebounds. Wang Zhongguang scored 12.

Donnell Harvey had 32 points and 16 rebounds to lead Jiangsu to a 123-105 triumph over Zhejiang and a three-way tie for second. Jameel Watkins added 26 points and 14 rebounds. Hu Xuefeng had 19 points, 6 rebounds and 5 assists. Zhang Cheng scored 16 and Han Shuo added 10. Kirk Snyder led Zhejiang with 34 points and 8 rebounds while Samuel Hoskin had 32 points and 7 rebounds. Ding Jinhui added 17 points.

Shandong defeated Jilin 108-97. Mack Tuck had 34 points, 7 rebounds, 3 assists and 3 steals. Priest Lauderdale had 25 points, 20 rebounds and 4 blocks. Wang Gang added 23 points. Leon Rogers led Jilin with 34 points and 7 rebounds. Soumaila Samake had 29 points and 11 rebounds. Lu Yan added 21 points.

Beijing defeated Qingdao 93-92 as Xie Libin had 25 points and 7 rebounds. David Harrison had 19 points and 12 rebounds. Dontae Jones had 18 points, 10 rebounds and 6 assists and Zhang Yunsong added 19 points. Li Guang (180-G-89), who starred at the Adidas Camp three years ago, had 31 points, 10 rebounds, and 7 assists for Qingdao. Amal McCaskill had 23 points and 8 rebounds. Yu Gaofeng had 17 points and 7 rebounds. Frans Steyn had 8 points and 14 rebounds.

Shaanxi defeated Shanxi Zhongyu 98-93 as all five starters played nearly the entire game. Lee Benson had 30 points and 17 rebounds. Brandon Robinson had 25 points, 9 rebounds and 8 steals. Zhang Wei scored 21 and Chen Zhaosheng scored 14. Dai Yong added 8 points. Donta Smith led Zhongyu with 29 points, 8 rebounds, 5 assists and 4 steals. Olumide Oyedeji had 22 points and 17 rebounds. Wei Mingliang added 13 points.

Tianjin edged winless Shanghai 97-90 as Wang Hao scored 28 points. Theron Smith had 18 points and 16 rebounds and Darryl Watkins had 16 points and 18 rebounds. Liu Hao added 13 points. Wang Ligang scored 23 points for Shanghai and Luo Xudong had 22 points and 8 rebounds. Wang Yong had 15 points and 9 rebounds. DaJuan Tate and Li Gen each scored 10.

Nigel Dixon scored 38 points and grabbed 13 rebounds as Zhejiang Guangsha blew out Fujian 122-90. Kasib Powell had 28 points and 8 rebounds. Zhang Nan and Jin Lipeng each scored 21. Matt Frieje led Fujian with 21 points. Chris Porter played only 12 minutes and scored 4 points. Liu Yudong scored 17 and Gong Songlin added 12.

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  COLOMBIA   


Basketball on the National Games - by Victor Garcia
The 2008 Edition of the National Games, finished one week ago, Basketball was important part of the games with U-18 Tournamente played in the Island of San Andres in both male and women.

Cundinamarca give a surpirse winning the Gold Medal, thanks to a very good job of his coach Germn Olaya and also thanks to the best player of the tournament and the best U-18 in the country Farid Char (62' G/F).
Boyaca also a surprise finished with the silver medal thanks to a succesfull procces of the coach Victor del Barba who in just 4 months rised the level of the team.
Bogot finished in the third place, and had one the best players in the tournament Carlos Varela (65' F), one of the best prospects in the age.
San Andrs

The powerhosues Valle and Antioquia finished out of the medals.

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  CYPRUS   


Great Changes in Seastar Apoel Nicosia - by Chris Mammides

Many changes took place in the last couple of days for the Nicosia team Seastar Apoel Nicosia. Firstly there are two new addings, the Bulgaria Jordan Bozov (191-G-79) and the Serbian Damjan Kandic (206-F/C-84) have been added in the roster of the enwcomer head Coach Christos Stylianidis . The players Mike Bernard (205-C-78, college: S.Florida) and Martin Zeno (196-G-85, college: Texas Tech) are no longer players of Apoel, they have been dismissed just after the game against Keravnos Strovolou last week. Earlier in November the players Maxime Zianveni (198-F-79) and Nate Doornekamp (213-C-82, college: Boston Coll.) and Niko Traykov (198-G, college: Bloomsburg St.) have been released.

These new changes (plus another one of a center which will be announced very soon) is expected to strengthen the Nicosia team in the league and be able to fight for the best feasible position in the second round and the regular seazon in general.


BMC AEK Larnacas agreed financial terms with Terrence Christopher and split ways with Ronald Alexander (213-F/C-84, college: Miss.Valley St.) and Du Juan Wiley (206-C-75, college: Michigan St.)



Cyprus League-Wins for Proteas EKA AEL and Intercollege Etha - by Michael Aristidou
In tonights Cyprus League matches we had win for both home teams. In detail Proteas EKA AEL Limassol won Ydra Asfalistiki ENAD Agios Dometios by 95-68. AEL never gave up the lead from the first minute. AEL had an 9-0 quick lead at the first 3 minutes. First quarter finishes 31-16 with AELs Milan Dozet having 3/3 on three points shoot. Second quarter AEL manage a 19point lead (40-21) and close the half time by 56-32. Biggest different in the game was 1 min before the end (95-62) and final score was 95-68. AEL first scorer was LaVell Blanchard (201-G-81, agency: Beo Basket, college: Michigan) with 24 followed by Quincy Taylor (196-G-82, college: UAB) with 20(1). ENAD first scorer was Dwayne Foreman (178-G-84, college: Georgia Southern) with 17 (2). In the other game InterCollege Etha Engomis won Nissan Omonia Nicosia by 96-90.

Pizza Express Primetel Apollon signs Cornelius McFandgon - by Michael Aristidou
Pizza Express Primetel Apollon signs american Cornelius McFadgon (196-F-82). McFandgon played last year in Ukraine Poltava-Basket Poltava. He was in the squad for Washington Wizards in 2005 but he never actually played any game with the team. Next year he played fot the Hornets having 5p. before moving in Europe and in Italy to play for Avellino. McFandgon will replace american Michael Robinson (198-F-76, college: Purdue) who got released from the apollon team.

A coach with an excellent record, never been called in the National Basketball team - by Nasios Orinos

Coach PANAYIOTIS GIANNARAS (currently assistant coach in Keravnos Strovolou Mens' Basktball team) knows what it feels to be disregarded, despite having achieved more than most of his colleagues did. The 36 year-old coach reached the pinnacle of his Career when he was appointed as a head coach of Enosis Paralimniou Mens' Basketball team (Div A) in 2000-2002. Additionally, in 1998-1999 he worked as an assistant coach in AEK Larnakas Mens' Baskeball team (Div A). The last 3 years he has been serving as the assistant coach of Keravnos Mens' Basketball team (Div A), with which he won 1 championship and 1 cup.

He has been coaching basketball since 1994. For a strange reason though, has never been called at any level of the Cyprus National team. A person who has worked as an assistant and a head coach in Mens' Basketball (Div A) and despite the fact that he has probably won more titles, in a higher level, than any of the other coaches who have ever coached in the national team he is wondering why. 'To be honest, I am doing my job and hoping that someone will notice', Panayiotis said to eurobasket.com.

Taking a closer look at his record, coach Giannaras is a terrific talent. He has passed from quite a few teams so far, including Enosis Paralimniou Mens' basketball team, AEK Larnakas Mens' Basketball team, AEL Limassol womens' team and Keravnos Strovolou junior and womens' team and of course Mens' team. Besides his success as Keravnoss assistant coach (1 championship and 1 cup), in his career he managed to win 6 more titles out of which 3 were championships. Specifically, his achievements include:

Division B championship finalist (1996-1997)
Division B cup winner (1997-1998)
Womens' league champion (2002-2003)
Womens' league champion (2003-2004)
Womens' cup finalist (2003-2004)
Womens' league champion (2004-2005)
Womens' league cup winner (2004-2005)
Womens' league supercup winner (2004-2005)
Mens' league cup winner as an assistant coach (2006-2007)
Mens' league champion as an assistant coach (2007-2008)


Finally, through his coaching years he managed to develop very good players, all who have been top in their league. One of them, is the well known Panayiotis Trissokas.

When you have a record like this it is disappointing to stay away. To cut the story short ,Panayiotis Giannaras is only 36 years old, has worked in few of the best teams on the island and has quite a few titles in his resume.
Despite all these he has not been called and never coached a single hour in the Cyprus National team, at any level. Why?

We believe that the so called 'Basketball Experts' should give us an aswer!!!



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  D-LEAGUE   


D-League Round: 13 (Regular Season) - by Eurobasket News
Sioux Falls - Rio Grande 121-118
Sioux Falls Skyforce grabbed an overtime victory against the Rio Grande Valley Vipers jumping on 5-2 record. The winning squad had couple of players in a game mood. Frank Williams poured in 34 points (6 triples). Gary Forbes collected 28 points and 12 boards, while Bobby Jones added 26 points and 16 boards. Rio Grande got 30 points, 12 assists and 5 rebs from Smush Parker. Alpha Bangura drained 22, while Quin Humphrey stopped on 20 points. The hosts now have 3-4.

Iowa - Erie 93-103
Seven players with 10 or more points in Erie Bay Hawks were enough for the home victory against Iowa Energy. Oliver Lafayette top-scored for the winners with 22 points. Ivan Harris had 19 pts plus 7 boards, while Taj McCullough netted 2 points less than him. Courtney Sims delivered 25 points and pulled down 14 rebounds for the Energy, who faced with the first defeat of the season (4-1).

Tulsa - Bakersfield 98-107
6-1 for the Jam and 2-4 for the 66ers after this game. Derrick Byars, who came of the bench, scored 19 points for the hosts. Richard Hendrix and Nick Lewis had 18 points and 11 boards apiece. Chris Richard shined for the loosing side collecting 24 points and 9 rebounds. Derrick Dial was behind him with double-double, 16 points and 12 assists.

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  FINLAND   


KORISLIIGA: Kouvot and KTP winning - by Rauno Hurmalainen

Korisliiga, Round 17: Two games tonight. Pyrinto (Tampere) and KTP (Kotka) had a close contest in Tampere as it was a one-point-game (66-67) with three minutes to go. But KTP came strong again at the end winning by seven pts 71-78 (36-33): 5min 6-7, 10min 15-14, 15min 27-22, 20min 36-33, 25min 45-50, 30min 52-56, 35min 58-62 and 40min 71-78. Chris Hester (192-G-79, college: E.Washington) led Pyrinto with 19 pts. Durell Vinson (201-F-85, college: Wagner) (KTP) was the game MVP: 26 pts and 12 rbs.
In Kouvola hosting Kouvot had a strong start, but fell then asleep and visitor Team Componenta (Karkkila) came back to the game. But only for a while, because Kouvot won the second half 57-29, the fourth quarter 39-17 and the game 93-63 (36-37): 5min 13-4, 10min 16-21, 15min 21-30, 20min 36-37, 25min 42-43, 30min 54-46, 35min 76-55 and 40min 93-63. Brian Swift (178-G-82, agency: Octagon, college: S.Florida) led Kouvot again with 21 pts and seven assists. Kenneth Henderson (203-F-82, college: Texas Arlington) scored 20 pts for TC.

Pyrinto - KTP 71-78 (36-33) (Chris Hester 19, Kurtis Rice 12/11, Joni Harjula 10 - Durell Vinson 26/12, Steve Smith 22, Pasi Heinonen 11).

Kouvot - Team Componenta 93-63 (36-37) (Brian Swift 21/7a, Antti Kanervo 17, Roope Suonio 17 - Kenneth Henderson 20, Frank Richards 13, Darrell Waters 10/10).



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  FRANCE   


Pro A : Nancy releases Center Rod Benson - by Aurelien Hipp
*After 8 games played in ProA (2.3ppg, 2.3rpg), with only a 10 min-average, Rod Benson (208-F/C-84, college: California) has just been released by the defending french champion. Despite good performances in the NBA D-league (especially as an impressive rebounding threat), the french team finally decided not to count on him. SLUC Nancy is looking for a new player to fill the roster and prepare the next ProA & Euroleague scheduled games.

Important Euroleague win for SLUC Nancy - by Eurobasket News
SLUC Nancy - Asseco Prokom 78-70

Extremely important victory for SLUC Nancy as both teams are now on the same 2-5 record in Group B. In the front of almost 6.000 fans Nancy had pretty good last quarter (22-16), what at the end was enough for the win. Michel Morandais (197-G/F-79, college: Colorado) led the scorers in the winning squad with 18 points. John Cox (195-G-81, college: USF) had 16, while Cyril Julian (205-F/C-75, agency: Octagon) registered double-double, 13 points and 14 rebounds. Lamayne Wilson (204-F-80, college: Troy) also shined for the hosts adding 12 points and 9 rebounds. David Logan (184-G-82, college: Indianapolis) was better than the others in Asseco Prokom collecting 22 points and 5 rebs. Daniel Ewing (191-G-83, college: Duke) had 17 points and 5 assists, while Patrick Burke (208-C-73, college: Auburn) and Ronnie Burrell (204-F-83, agency: Pro One Sports, college: NC-Greensboro) contributed with 14 pts and 9 boards apiece.
Nancy opened the game in style creating 8-point lead, 12-4. Later it was 16-8 and 22-15. Asseco Prokom answered at the beginning of the second frame and after triple by David Logan the score was tied, 28-28. Experienced Cyril Julian stepped up for the hosts after that leading 10-2 run and giving Nancy first double-digit lead in the game, 44-34. As soon as Nancy touched plus 13 in third stanza, Prokom responded with 0-12 run, closed with 3-pointer by Daniel Ewing. Later teams entered into the last 2 minutes tied, 69-69. Greer made one FT after what John Cox stepped up with jumper and a foul for 74-70 with 27 seconds remaining. Zamojski missed a triple for Prokom after time out, what automatically meant that Nancy will take this one.

SLUC Nancy: Michel Morandais 18+5 boards, John Cox 16+4 boards, Cyril Julian 13+14 boards, Lamayne Wilson 12+9 boards
Asseco Prokom: David Logan 22+5 boards+4 as, Daniel Ewing 17+5 as, Patrick Burke 14+9 boards, Ronnie Burrell 14+9 boards

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  FYR MACEDONIA   


Macedonia- Round 13 - by Zoran Bogdanovic
Swisslion Pelister Bitola - AMMAK SP Ohrid 95:93 2 OT

Swisslion Pelister Bitola joined Fersped KK Fersped-Rabotnicki MZT FON Univerzitet Skopje on the 1st position after seventh victory in a row. Host had 16 point advenatage six minutes before the end of the regular time (75:59), but after AMMAKs seria 12:O started thriller game with 2 OT.
Swisslion Pelister Bitola: Miljkovic 20 pts,
AMMAK SP Ohrid: Stojasnovski 24 pts, Bogoev 22 pts,

Karpos Sokoli 2000 - KK Fersped-Rabotnicki 67:115

KK Fersped-Rabotnicki destroyed Karpos Sokoli 2000 , with record points per one quarter of the season, 42 in second quarter. Karpos made only one point more for the whole match than the KK Fersped-Rabotnicki for the first half.

Torus MZT FON Univerzitet Skopje - MZT FON Univerzitet Skopje 72:79

MZT after four losses in a row thankfully to well played 4th period made important victory. Brckov missed free throws at the end of the game.
Torus MZT FON Univerzitet Skopje:Brckov 17, Janeski 16
MZT FON Univerzitet Skopje: Radulovic 23, Stankovic 22

Ovce Pole Sveti Nikole - Feni Indistry 72:76

Besides furious finishing second period and maximum + 15 points at 47:32 Feni couldnt be sure in win until the end of the game because Ovce Pole Sveti Nikole came on 71:74 in the last minute

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  GREECE   


Regal Barca crushes PAO in Athens - by Eurobasket News
PAO - Regal Barca 76-87

Regal Barca handed the second Euroleague defeat to Panathinaikos this season. As a reminder, both teams entered into this round with almost perfect 5-1 record in Group B. PAO's only defeat before this game was in Barcelona, and it was the huge one 90-66. Barca already booked a spot for the TOP 16, while PAO will have a chance to do the same in the next round against SLUC Nancy. David Andersen (212-C-80) was a key payer for Barca nailing 22 points and pulling down 9 rebounds. Gianluca Basile (192-G-75) had 16 points, 4 rebs and 5 assists, while 'La Bomba' (Juan Carlos Navarro (192-G-80) this time stopped on 9 points and 5 assists. Big guy Mike Batiste (203-F-77, college: Arizona St.) once again shined for PAO collecting 21 points and 7 boards. Vassilis Spanoulis (193-G-82, agency: Beo Basket) had 13 pts and 5 assists, while Drew Nicholas (191-G-81, college: Maryland) netted 11 pts.
Regal Barca had impressive first half of the game. It was 5-1 and later, after JC Navaro's triple, Barca grabbed double-digit lead, 12-22. Antonis Fotsis (210-F-81) answered from downtown, but Ilyasova set the score on 18-25 after 10 minutes. At the middle of the second stanza Gianluca Basile came up with two wild triples for huge 22-39. At that point of game it seemed that the Greek powerhouse will face with another fiasco against Barca. However, Vassilis Spanoulis and Drew Nicholas made couple of nice decisions at the offensive end closing the gap on 11 pts at the half time, 38-49. After Sarunas Jasikevicius' (192-G-76, college: Maryland) points at the beginning of third quarter, PAO came on 42-49. Big guy David Andersen answered with few baskets leading Barca to 48-60. Roger Grimau (196-G-79) definitely resolved question about the winner with 5 consecutive points at the opening of the last 10 minutes. It was plus 20 for Barca. PAO had a chance close to the end, but Sarunas Jasikevicius missed an open triple after what Gianluca Basile made it from the fast break for 71-83 lead.

PAO: Mike Batiste 21+7 boards, Vassilis Spanoulis 13+5 as, Drew Nicholas 11
Regal Barca: David Andersen 22+9 boards, Gianluca Basile 16+4 boards+5 as, Juan Carlos Navarro 9+5 as

Standings - A1
A1 Standings
 1. Panathinaikos 8-1 
 2. Olympiakos 8-1 
 3. Aris 7-2 
 4. Panellinios 7-2 
 5. Panionios 5-3 
 6. Kavala/P. 4-4 
 7. AEK 4-5 
 8. C.C. Marousi 4-5 
 9. VAP Kolossos 4-5 
 10. PAOK 4-5 
 11. Olimpia L. 3-6 
 12. AEL 1964 2-7 
 13. Trikalla 1-8 
 14. ESTIA Egaleo 1-8 


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  ISRAEL   


Maccabi Electra cruises past Air Avelino on the road - by Eurobasket News
Air Avelino - Maccabi Electra 72-86

First road win of the season for Maccabi Electra, who jumped on 4-3 record in Group A. Olympiakos, Unicaja and Cibona have one victory more than Maccabi, while Air Avelino is currently the fifth ranked team in the group with 2-5. Despite there is 3 more games to be played, it seems that 4 participants of the TOP 16 from Group A are already known (Olympiakos is the only one who officially booked a spot for the next stage). Marcus Brown (193-G-74, agency: Higher Vision Sports, college: Murray St.) was on fire against Air Avelino delivering 26 points and grabbing 6 rebounds. Lior Eliyahu (205-F-85, agency: ZAG Advocates) registered double-double, 18 points and 10 boards, while D'or Fischer (211-C-81, college: W.Virginia) did the same, 17 pts and also 10 rebs. Yaniv Green (206-F-80, agency: ZAG Advocates) added 14 points and 7 rebounds. Air Avelino got 17 points from Travis Best (180-G-72, college: Georgia Tech). Tamar Slay (204-F-80, college: Marshall) netted 14, while Marko Tusek (203-F-75) had 13 points and 5 boards in loss.
At the middle of the second quarter the score was tied, 32-32. Until the half time Maccabi created 8-16 run, closed with a triple by Derrick Sharp. Marcus Brown was hot and he together with Lior Eliyahu set the margin on 14-points, 47-61. Tamar Slay shined for the hosts after that closing the gap on 10 points. Later, Best made a lay-up at the buzzer for 56-65 after 30 minutes. Marcus Brown opened the last stanza with a triple for 14-point margin. Air Avelino came on 66-74 and later 69-76, but Brown made two FTs and Yaniv Green scored it from the paint. Drog Hagag's two points from the FT line definitely secured win for Maccabi.

Air Avelino: Travis Best 17, Tamar Slay 14, Marko Tusek 13+5 boards
Maccabi Electra: Marcus Brown 26+6 boards, Lior Eliyahu 18+10 boards, D'or Fischer 17+10 boards, Yaniv Green 14+7 boards

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  ITALY   


Standings - Lega 2
Lega2 Standings
 1. Cimberio VA 9-2 
 2. Fileni JE 8-3 
 3. Fastweb CM 8-3 
 4. Vanoli SO 7-4 
 5. Trenkwalder 7-4 
 6. Harem SC 6-5 
 7. Pallacan.RO 5-6 
 8. Prima VE 5-6 
 9. Basket LI 5-6 
 10. Banco Sard. 5-6 
 11. Aget IM 5-6 
 12. Crabs RN 4-7 
 13. Umana Reyer 4-7 
 14. Carmatic PI 4-7 
 15. Enel Brindisi 3-8 
 16. Edimes PV 3-8 


Maccabi Electra cruises past Air Avelino on the road - by Eurobasket News
Air Avelino - Maccabi Electra 72-86

First road win of the season for Maccabi Electra, who jumped on 4-3 record in Group A. Olympiakos, Unicaja and Cibona have one victory more than Maccabi, while Air Avelino is currently the fifth ranked team in the group with 2-5. Despite there is 3 more games to be played, it seems that 4 participants of the TOP 16 from Group A are already known (Olympiakos is the only one who officially booked a spot for the next stage). Marcus Brown (193-G-74, agency: Higher Vision Sports, college: Murray St.) was on fire against Air Avelino delivering 26 points and grabbing 6 rebounds. Lior Eliyahu (205-F-85, agency: ZAG Advocates) registered double-double, 18 points and 10 boards, while D'or Fischer (211-C-81, college: W.Virginia) did the same, 17 pts and also 10 rebs. Yaniv Green (206-F-80, agency: ZAG Advocates) added 14 points and 7 rebounds. Air Avelino got 17 points from Travis Best (180-G-72, college: Georgia Tech). Tamar Slay (204-F-80, college: Marshall) netted 14, while Marko Tusek (203-F-75) had 13 points and 5 boards in loss.
At the middle of the second quarter the score was tied, 32-32. Until the half time Maccabi created 8-16 run, closed with a triple by Derrick Sharp. Marcus Brown was hot and he together with Lior Eliyahu set the margin on 14-points, 47-61. Tamar Slay shined for the hosts after that closing the gap on 10 points. Later, Best made a lay-up at the buzzer for 56-65 after 30 minutes. Marcus Brown opened the last stanza with a triple for 14-point margin. Air Avelino came on 66-74 and later 69-76, but Brown made two FTs and Yaniv Green scored it from the paint. Drog Hagag's two points from the FT line definitely secured win for Maccabi.

Air Avelino: Travis Best 17, Tamar Slay 14, Marko Tusek 13+5 boards
Maccabi Electra: Marcus Brown 26+6 boards, Lior Eliyahu 18+10 boards, D'or Fischer 17+10 boards, Yaniv Green 14+7 boards

DKV Joventut stops Lottomatica in Badalona - by Eurobasket News
DKV Joventut - Lottomatica Roma 97-93

Lottomatica Roma missed a chance to secure a spot for the TOP 16 in Badalona. At the same time, the hosts made a huge step forward moving up on third place with 4-3 score. The team from Rome has 5-2. It is important to mention that it was the first official game for Fernando Gentile as Lottomatica's interim bench boss. Bracey Wright (191-G-84, college: Indiana) paced DKV Joventut to victory nailing 19 points and grabbing 7 rebounds. Luka Bogdanovic (206-F-85, agency: Beo Basket) also had very important role for the Spanish team netting 15 points for 28 minutes. Eduardo Hernandez-Sonseca (212-C-83) helped with 14, while Demond Mallet (186-G-78, agency: Higher Vision Sports, college: Mc Neese St.) had 12 points and 5 assists. Andre Hutson (202-F-79, college: Michigan St.) came up with 22 points and 8 boards for Lottomatica. Sani Becirovic (195-G-81, agency: Beo Basket) added 14 points and 5 assists. Brandon Jennings (183-G-89) scored 12 for the visitors.
First half was totally leveled, 48-48. DKV Joventut had high-scoring third stanza entering into the last ten minutes with decent 76-69. Andre Hutson and Brandon Jennings made it for Lottomatica creating mini 4-0 run. Joventut, actually Norel, made on FT after what Ibby Jaaber scored a lay-up for the visitors. However, Bracey Wright answered on the other side and together with Pau Ribas extended Joventut's lead to 6 points, 81-75. Lottomatica had a big troubles at the offensive end committing 20 turnovers already at the middle of the last stanza. Eduardo Hernandez-Sonseca made a basket for the hosts, which was followed by the triple from Demond Mallet. It was 86-75 at that moment. Soon after that Lavina stepped up for the hosts helping them to stretch the lead on 14, 91-77. Sani Becirovic closed the gap on 91-85 with 2 minutes to go, but Luka Bogdanovic drained a triple for Joventut after that. The team from Rome made quick 8-0 run at the end for 95-93, but unfortunately to them it was followed by intentional foul and 2 successful FTs by Pau Ribas. The hosts also had a ball meaning that this game was already over for Lottomatica.

DKV Joventut: Bracey Wright 19+7 boards, Luka Bogdanovic 15, Eduardo Hernandez-Sonseca 14, Demond Mallet 12+5 as
Lottomatica Roma: Andre Hutson 22+8 boards, Sani Becirovic 14+5 as, Brandon Jennings 12

Lega2 Round: 11 (Regular Season) - by Eurobasket News
Umana Reyer - Fileni JE 84-59
Umana Reyer created an upset for Fileni JE 84:59 in Regular Season Round 11. Green Nathan paced the winners with 19 points and Causin Alberto had 16. Ryan Damien ended up with 17 points in the losing effort.

Harem SC - Enel Brindisi 66-59
Harem SC kept Enel Brindisi on the bottom of the group after 66:59 at home. Davis Ronald top-scored for the winners with 18 points, whilst Salvi Joel colleted 17 points and 12 rebounds.

Vanoli SO - Banco Sard. 78-69
Vanoli SO improved to 7-4 in the standings after beating Banco Sardegna 78:69. Bell Troy paced the winners with 21 points and Mbemba Rudy added 13. Whiting Trent produced 19 points in defeat.

Crabs RN - Pallacan.RO 88-70
Crabs RN left the bottom zone defeating Pallacanestro RO 88:70 behind 18 points from Kesicki Tomasz. Goss Phil and McCray Chris followed him with 15 points each for 4-7 record. Lorenzetti Nello finished the night with 17 points fo the guests.

Aget IM - Prima VE 85-79
Bunn Joseph led Aget IM over Prima VE with 25 points in a 85:79 win. Swann Isaiah posted 22 and Canavesi Matteo had 19. Nissim Afik chipped in 18 points in the losing effort.

Trenkwalder - Carmatic PI 69-66
Trenkwalder edged Carmatic PI 69:66 as Melli Nicolo top-scored for the winners with 18 points. Tyler Elton collected the same number of points in defeat and added 13 rebounds, while Rosselli Guido posted 13.

Fastweb CM - Cimberio VA 98-90
The game between Fastweb CM and Cimberio VA bcame the key one in Regular Season Round 11. The home side produced a great game for 98:90 and bettered their position for 8-3 record. Dowdell Zabian led the winners with 24 points, Smith Jamar had 21 and Fantoni Tommaso added 20. Dickens Kaniel scored 20 points for the leaders of Serie A that is 9-2 now.

Basket LI - Edimes PV 92-81
Boyette Jermaine top-scored for Livorno and in Regular Season Round 11 with 33 points as his team beat Edimes PV 92:81. Marigney Paul edned up with 20 points in the losing effort.



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


Babalola, First Deepwater boss bags Lagos SWAN award - by Olusegun Ikuesan
Managing Director and Chief Executive Officer of First Deepwater Discovery Limited, Engineer Babatunde Babatunde Friday was rewarded with the Sport Personality of the Year Award by the Lagos State chapter of the Sports Writers Association of Nigeria, SWAN.

The choice of Engr. Babalola for the prestigious award according to the committee set by the Executive of the Lagos Sports pen-pushers was in the First Deepwater boss recognition as a leading contributor to the development of the game of basketball in Lagos State in particular and Nigeria in general.

Babalola whose company, First Deepwater Discovery Limited has undertaken the sponsorship of various basketball competitions in the out-going year and is reported to be prepared to do more in the years ahead was chosen by the Lagos SWAN hierarchy as one of the recipient of its 2008 award.

Babalola who played college basketball in the colour of the Federal University of Technology Akure, FUTA recently rebuilt the basketball court of his Alma-Mata and sponsored an all tertiary institutions tournament among higher institutions in Ondo and Ekiti states, tagged Ondo/Ekiti Intercollegiate Basketball Championship.

Other competitions sponsored by First Deepwater Discovery Limited in the out going year includes the one-day 6-A-Side Bounce 9ja tournament, the Battle for Supremacy, the open and close camping of the nation U22 Wheelchair Basketball Team and the team participation in the Africa U22 Wheelchair Basketball Championship held in Johannesburg, South Africa.

Our correspondent gathered from reliable course close to the Oil and Gas mogul that arrangement is in top gear for the floating of two basketball clubs (men and women) that would campaign for honours in the Nigeria premier leagues.

Babalola says he was taken aback by the conferment of the award on him by Lagos SWAN promised to continue to do his best for the continuous growth and development of basketball in Nigeria.

I see the award as a challenge and as a recognition of our effort as an organization and lastly it is a message to us that we must not rest on our efforts that means people are watching what weve been doing.

I want to thank Lagos State chapter of SWAN for deeming it fit to honours us and I dedicate the award to all management and staffs of our great company.

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


Jordan leads Tulsa past Missouri State - by Leonard Whyte
Tulsa, OK (12-12-2008): Center Jerome Jordan scored a game-high 21 points and grabbed nine rebounds to lead the University of Tulsa past Missouri State University 70-67 last night in a non-conference encounter. The 7 0 Jordan also had three blocked shots. Tulsa was able to hang on, despite scoring only one basket in the final five minutes of the game, thanks to clutch free-throw shooting. Tulsa next plays Presbyterian University on Sunday.

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


Allen signs for Al Sahel - by Ali Ahmed

Al Sahel basketball team management agreed terms with the American Forward Justin Allen (203-F-81, college: Arizona St.) to play for them this season 2008/2009.

Justin Allen is a 6'8' big man that his presence alone is very intimidating. He is very strong, blocks shots, and rebounds tremendously. He has prior European experience and will make a great addition to any team.


Awards/Achievements:
Academic All-Pac-10 honors -02, 03, 04
Gene Autry Courage Award -02
Jimmy V. Comeback Award -03
2nd Team Pac-10 All-Academic selection -04



*****************************************************
  LIGA AMERICAS   


Standings
Liga Americas Standings
Group A
 1. Arecibo 2-1 
 2. Merengueros 2-1 
 3. Minas 2-1 
 4. Pioneros 0-3 
Group B
 1. Bigua 0-0 
 2. Regatas C. 0-0 
 3. Penarol 0-0 
 4. U.Concepc. 0-0 
Group C
 1. Dep.Castro 0-0 
 2. Flamengo 0-0 
 3. Libertad 0-0 
 4. Universo/BRB 0-0 
Group D
 1. Liceo 0-0 
 2. Quimsa 0-0 
 3. Halc. Xalpa 0-0 
 4. Soles 0-0 


Figueroa is the best scorer Sucatzky leads in assists - by Richard
ARECIBO (FIBA Americas League) - Angel 'Buster' Figueroa of Capitanes de Arecibo finished as the best scorer in Group A of the FIBA Americas League. Meanwhile Argentinean guard Facundo Sucatzky (176-G-72) from Minas Tenis Clube finished as the leader in assists.

Figueroa scored 65 points in three games for an average of 21.7 per game. Marcus Fleming (204-F-78, college: Alcorn St.) (Pioneros) and Murilo Becker (Minas) finished tied in second place with an average of 20.3 points per game. Joe Shipp (Minas) had an average of 18.3 and Torraye Braggs (203-F/C-76, college: Xavier) (Pioneros) 16.3 to finish in fourth and fifth place, respectively.

Braggs finished as the best rebounder with an average of 10 per game and was followed by Carlos Paniagua (Merengueros) and Jeff Aubry (Capitanes) with 9.7 per game. Buster Figueroa averaged 7.7 and Murilo Becker (Minas) 7 to be between the leaders of the league.

In assists the leader was Facundo Sucatzky who averaged 11.7 and was followed by his partner Luiz Felipe Campos and Rafael 'Pachy' Cruz (Capitanes) with 4.7 per game. In the first edition of the FIBA Americas League Sucatzky finished as the leader with an average of 9.6 assists in eight games.

The FIBA Americas League continues on Tuesday, December 16 with Group B to be played at Polideportivo de Islas Malvinas in Mar del Plata with the participation of Pearol (defending champion), Regatas Corrientes (South American League Champion), Bigu (South American Championship for Clubs champion) and Universidad de Concepcin.

Courtesy of FIBA Americas

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


Player movements in Mexico - by Kristian Santiago

Here are some player updates on the fast moving LNBP:

Gene Shipley (206-C-79, college: Brandon) and Jerome Habel (208-F-85, college: San Diego St.) are now playing for the Tijuana Galgos, while Shannon Swillis (201-F-78, college: Fresno St.) was also signed to the Galgos.
Rahsaan Smith (208-C-73, college: Fresno St.) left the same team after playing in seven games (8,7 ppg and 7,7 rpg).


DeeAndre Hulett (200-G/F-80, college: Coll.Sequoias CC) and Reggie George (208-C-85, agency: Sports Plus International, college: Robert Morris) inked with Potros ITSON while Dedrick Gage (201-F-79, college: Lynn),Randy Kelly (201-F/C-80, college: Cascade),Lorenzo Trudo (201-F-80, college: Huron) and Lance Holloway (203-F-85) are not with Obregon anymore.


Omar Waller (196-F-81, college: Texas Coll.) is new in Mexico City and plays for the Estrellas Indebasquet ed Distrito Federa while Forrest Fisher (193-G-84) (15,1 ppg) and Bruce Cooper (203-F/C-83, college: S.Connecticut) (6,2 ppg) were waived.

Leaders Tecos de la UAGuadalajara got help by James Jackson (206-F-81, college: E.Michigan) while David Harrison (191-G-75, agency: Interperformances, college: Campbellsville) (7 ppg and 4,2 rpg) is out, the same could have happened to Corey Louis (204-F/C-77, college: Florida St.) (5,2 ppg and 3,9 rpg).

Tang Tephen Hamilton (201-F-78, agency: HM Sports Agency, college: Mississippi St.) and Jerry Echenique (201-C-79, college: High Point) are now signed by the Chihuahua Dorados. The team cut James Collins (188-G-84, college: Birmingham Souther) (7,4 ppg) KKeenan Jourdon (202-F-74, agency: Paris Global Sports, college: Boston Coll.) (13,8 ppg and 4,8 rpg) and Detrick White (184-G-76, college: Mississippi St.) (14 ppg).



Pioneros de Quintana drop three games at Fiba Americas League - by Eurobasket News
Pioneros de Quintana lost three games in preliminary round of the II Fiba Americas League. Pioneros got into Group A that played its games in Arecibo, Puerto Rico.
Pioneros opened their campaign against the Group favorites Capitanes de Arecibo. A crowd of almost 5000 cheered the Capitanes up and they proved the status. The hosts rolled past Pioneros 104:72 for the first win in the tournament. Angel Figueroa (196-G/F-81, agency: Paris Global Sports, college: Dowling) scored 20 points to lead the way for the home team. Tyras Wade (200-F-81, college: La-Lafayette) answered with 22 points for Quintana. Marcus Fleming (204-F-78, college: Alcorn St.) added 21 points in the loss.
The second day did not bring much improvement for the Mexican team. They faced Brazilian Minas and fell short 74:93 to suffer the second straight defeat. Joseph Shipp (197-F-81, agency: Octagon, college: California) was pivotal for Minas with 21 points and 7 boards. Torraye Braggs (203-F/C-76, college: Xavier) responded with 18 points in the loss. Tyras Wade nailed 17 points for Quinteros.
Finally Pioneros took on Dominican Merengueros. Marcus Fleming exploded with 30 points for Quinteros but did not prevent his team from losing. Andres Sandoval (193-G-83) knocked down 25 points and dished out 7 assists for Merengueros to secure a 93:84 victory. Torraye Braggs had 21 points and 15 boards in the loss.

*****************************************************
  MOROCCO   


Day 7 Results - by Nour Amri
FUS Rabat - ASE Essaouira: 53 - 57
ASE eked out a dramatic victory over FUS confirming their excellent state of preparation. The hosts managed to deny an 11-point halftime deficit before losing in last minutes of the game, mainly due to a lack of concentration and the poor effectiveness of FUS usual scorers Marius and Ndaye.
ASE Essaouira Asvel celebrated this impressive victory and occupied the 1st spot in D1 standing.

IRT Tanger - KAC Kenitra : 91 - 78
IRT was too strong for KAC where Tunisian Marouane Kechrid paced his team to this victory draining 18 points and 8 assits. Papis Diouf dominated the paint nailing 17 points and pulling down 12 rebounds. On the other hand, visitors faced with 5th failure in 7 appearances.

WAC Casablanca - CMC Casablanca : 77 - 67
Very important victory for WAC, who finally moved up from the bottom off D1 standing (1-7). But there is still a lot of work to do for coach Ghissassi if WAC wants to play the playoff this season.

MAS Fes - ASS Sale : 92 - 85
The Great thing for head coach Hachem Ouahidi is that MAS players demonstrated wonderful performance and showed better self confidence. ASS managed to deny an 6 points halftime deficit outscoring 10-2 at the beginning of the 2nd half thanks to a very aggressive defense. But scoring guard Traor putted his team back on the game netting 3 three point shots in the row. Teams then exchanged points in a very intense 4th quarter where ASS players lost concentration and starts missing easy baskets.

IRAN Nador - RCA Casablanca : 72 - 55
Another big performance for IRAN players who round after round are demonstated that they really earned to be promoted to D1. Without their international center player Najah (suspended by the federation), RCA could not impose their rhythm in offense and suffered in defense.

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


Cougars Pounce - by Eurobasket News
The Canterbury Rams will not contest the 2009 National Basketball League and have been replaced by the new Christchurch Cougars franchise. As a result of discussions this week, we have decided that the best course of action is not to compete in the 2009 NBL and to concentrate our efforts on 2010, when the league will be relaunched, said a statement issued by the Rams today. We understand that the NBL board will be issuing three-year licenses for this new competition and that will be our focus. Obviously, we would not want to leave Canterbury without representation in the 2009 competition, and we have received assurances that there is another team willing and able to take the place of the Rams next year.
NBL chairman Sam Rossiter-Stead: The Rams feel that this is the best course of action for them and we endorse their decision, I have spent a great deal of time this week assessing the viability of the Cougars and am convinced that they have the necessary structures in place to be able to compete in the NBL in 2009.
Christchurch Cougars co-owner Amy Gardiner was delighted at the outcome. We are looking forward to the challenge, although we are all aware that there is a great deal of hard work ahead.
Courtesy of: www.basketball.org.nz


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


IPNX telecom backs Rookie tourney - by Olusegun Ikuesan
The 2008 Rookie Academy annual basketball tournament receive a boost recently as a telecommunications service provider, IPNX Nigeria Limited has thrown its weight behind the Mark Balogun organized tournament for U18 boys and girls.

According to the Executive Director of the Lagos-based telecomm company, Ifeanyi Amah that he was thrilled by the effort being put into developing the young kids in the metropolis by Coach Balogun and his crew.

The IPNX top-shot says his modest outfit might have the financial power to dole out millions of naira to back the 2008 edition of the tournament which is the 10th in the series but his company will undertake some major aspect of the competition in order to add glamour to one of the nations foremost youth tournament.

We are determined to do what we can contribute in order to make this years tournament a huge success and that we are doing.

I am most impressed by the efforts of coach Balogun and his crew members which comprise Maurice Omatoje, Emeka Oputa in contributing to the career shaping of the teeming youths that thronged the basketball court of the Police College, Ikeja daily to learn the rudiment of the game, the IPNX boss said.

Tournament coordinator, Balogun said the six-day event billed to jump-start on Monday will feature teams in the U18 male and female category, U16 male and U12 male.

Balogun who also double as the head coach of the Nigeria Police basketball teams says winning teams will be handsomely rewarded.

Babalola, First Deepwater boss bags Lagos SWAN award - by Olusegun Ikuesan
Managing Director and Chief Executive Officer of First Deepwater Discovery Limited, Engineer Babatunde Babatunde Friday was rewarded with the Sport Personality of the Year Award by the Lagos State chapter of the Sports Writers Association of Nigeria, SWAN.

The choice of Engr. Babalola for the prestigious award according to the committee set by the Executive of the Lagos Sports pen-pushers was in the First Deepwater boss recognition as a leading contributor to the development of the game of basketball in Lagos State in particular and Nigeria in general.

Babalola whose company, First Deepwater Discovery Limited has undertaken the sponsorship of various basketball competitions in the out-going year and is reported to be prepared to do more in the years ahead was chosen by the Lagos SWAN hierarchy as one of the recipient of its 2008 award.

Babalola who played college basketball in the colour of the Federal University of Technology Akure, FUTA recently rebuilt the basketball court of his Alma-Mata and sponsored an all tertiary institutions tournament among higher institutions in Ondo and Ekiti states, tagged Ondo/Ekiti Intercollegiate Basketball Championship.

Other competitions sponsored by First Deepwater Discovery Limited in the out going year includes the one-day 6-A-Side Bounce 9ja tournament, the Battle for Supremacy, the open and close camping of the nation U22 Wheelchair Basketball Team and the team participation in the Africa U22 Wheelchair Basketball Championship held in Johannesburg, South Africa.

Our correspondent gathered from reliable course close to the Oil and Gas mogul that arrangement is in top gear for the floating of two basketball clubs (men and women) that would campaign for honours in the Nigeria premier leagues.

Babalola says he was taken aback by the conferment of the award on him by Lagos SWAN promised to continue to do his best for the continuous growth and development of basketball in Nigeria.

I see the award as a challenge and as a recognition of our effort as an organization and lastly it is a message to us that we must not rest on our efforts that means people are watching what weve been doing.

I want to thank Lagos State chapter of SWAN for deeming it fit to honours us and I dedicate the award to all management and staffs of our great company.

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


BC Knights Announce Preseason Game 12-27-08 - by Richard
Knights To Host Preseason Contest vs. Mid-Michigan Destroyers
Battle Creek Knights, Michigan-The Battle Creek Knights professional basketball team, member of the Premier Basketball League, are proud to announce a preseason contest vs. the Mid-Michigan Destroyers on Saturday, December 27th, 2008, at Delton-Kellogg High School. Tip off time is 12 noon that day.
Tickets will be available to purchase that day to this preseason contest at the Delton-Kellogg High School gym. Proceeds from ticket sales on this preseason game date goes to the Delton Kellogg High School athletic fund.
Any questions on this news release, please contact the Knights team offices (McCamly Place) at 269-965-5001 or email questions to info@bcknights.com.
Courtesy of PBL

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


Important Euroleague win for SLUC Nancy - by Eurobasket News
SLUC Nancy - Asseco Prokom 78-70

Extremely important victory for SLUC Nancy as both teams are now on the same 2-5 record in Group B. In the front of almost 6.000 fans Nancy had pretty good last quarter (22-16), what at the end was enough for the win. Michel Morandais (197-G/F-79, college: Colorado) led the scorers in the winning squad with 18 points. John Cox (195-G-81, college: USF) had 16, while Cyril Julian (205-F/C-75, agency: Octagon) registered double-double, 13 points and 14 rebounds. Lamayne Wilson (204-F-80, college: Troy) also shined for the hosts adding 12 points and 9 rebounds. David Logan (184-G-82, college: Indianapolis) was better than the others in Asseco Prokom collecting 22 points and 5 rebs. Daniel Ewing (191-G-83, college: Duke) had 17 points and 5 assists, while Patrick Burke (208-C-73, college: Auburn) and Ronnie Burrell (204-F-83, agency: Pro One Sports, college: NC-Greensboro) contributed with 14 pts and 9 boards apiece.
Nancy opened the game in style creating 8-point lead, 12-4. Later it was 16-8 and 22-15. Asseco Prokom answered at the beginning of the second frame and after triple by David Logan the score was tied, 28-28. Experienced Cyril Julian stepped up for the hosts after that leading 10-2 run and giving Nancy first double-digit lead in the game, 44-34. As soon as Nancy touched plus 13 in third stanza, Prokom responded with 0-12 run, closed with 3-pointer by Daniel Ewing. Later teams entered into the last 2 minutes tied, 69-69. Greer made one FT after what John Cox stepped up with jumper and a foul for 74-70 with 27 seconds remaining. Zamojski missed a triple for Prokom after time out, what automatically meant that Nancy will take this one.

SLUC Nancy: Michel Morandais 18+5 boards, John Cox 16+4 boards, Cyril Julian 13+14 boards, Lamayne Wilson 12+9 boards
Asseco Prokom: David Logan 22+5 boards+4 as, Daniel Ewing 17+5 as, Patrick Burke 14+9 boards, Ronnie Burrell 14+9 boards

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


Captains Win but fail to make Final Four - by Luis Ramirez
In the final night of action in the Fiba Americas League tournament, the Arecibo Captains were matched against the unbeaten Brazil team. For Arecibo to reach a tie for 1st place, they would be forced to beat Minas by at least 15 points. Brazil was 2-0 facing Puerto Rico, while the Captains were 1-1 have won against Mexico in the opening night, but losing in overtime to Merengueros of the Dominican Republic the next night. Arecibo was hoping to reach the tie banking on goal average and a win over Brazil by the 15 point margin.

It was Puerto Rico who scored first with Angel Figueroa making a field goal. This was followed by a fast break score by David Cortez to make it 4-0 in the 1st minute of play. Brazil made their 1st basket with 8 minutes left in the quarter the score was 8-2. Minas nonetheless came right back and with 5:30 were just 1 point behind 10-9. Both teams scored at an even pace and with 3:02 to go the game were tied at 13 points each. With a 3 pointer from Angel Figueroa he was able to put Capitanes on top 20-15. The quarter ended 22-19 in favor of Puerto Rico.

In the 2nd quarter Puerto Rico brought Robert Lazor on the floor and sat Monty Wilson to rest. Puerto Rico was able to take a 5 point lead with 7:50 in the quarter; Brazil was able to get back within 1 point 35-24 with 6:53 to go in the quarter. Seconds later Brazil took command of the game with a 3 pointer 27-24. Puerto Rico came right back with a triple of their own to tie the game at 27 points. With a 3 pointer Wilfredo Pagan gave Puerto Rico the lead once again 32-31 with 5 minutes to go. With 2:56 to go in the game Angel Figueroa was fouled and scored both free throws giving Puerto Rico a 3 point lead 38-35. Puerto Rico was able to muscle out several baskets with Angel Figueroa and extended their lead 47-39 with 40 seconds to go in the half. The half ended Puerto Rico leading 49-43. During this 1st half Puerto Rico dominated the boards 18-10 and this was crucial in maintaining their lead.

In the 3rd quarter Puerto Rico opened up a 9 point lead with 8:10, but Minas immediately scored a basket to trim the lead. Angel Figueroa scored a 3 pointer with 5:50 in the quarter to make the score 59-51. When Puerto Rico would create some momentum, Brazil would answer with a 3pointer of their own to keep the score close. With 3:36 to go in the quarter, the score was 64-60 in favor of Puerto Rico. Brazil came within 1 point as Ship of Minas scored a 3 pointer with 3:05 on the clock. Puerto Rico was able to go on a mini run and with 1:39 the score was 70-63. The quarter ended 73-64.

In the 4th quarter, Puerto Rico would try to obtain the needed 15 point margin in order to take 1st place. Both teams played at an even pace during the first 2 minutes of play. Brazil discounted the lead and with 6:59 of play the score was 76-70. With 4:04 left in the game Jeff Aubry was fouled and went to the line for two shots. He made both shots to put the score 81-72. Brazil would not relent and with 3:04 left Rafael Cruz was fouled and went to the line, he scored both shots and the score was 83-75. Puerto Rico scored a 3 pointer to give Puerto Rico an 11 point lead and Brazil immediately asked for a time out. With 2:18 left. Angel Figueroa stole a pass and made the Puerto Rico lead 13 just shy 2 points of the needed score to win 1st place, with just 1:32 left. With 30 seconds left Brazil went to the foul line and made both shots, to cut the lead to just 13 points. Puerto Rico would have another opportunity to obtain the 15 points. Angel Figueroa had an opportunity to get the desired 15 points but failed 1 of 2 free throws with just 11 seconds left. Puerto Rico had a last opportunity to win with the desired margin but lost the ball out of bounds as the time ended. The game ended 95-81.

For Puerto Rico Angel Figueroa scored 26 points followed by Monty Wilson with 17 points. For Minas it was Joe Shipp with 23 points followed by Murilo Becker with 22 points.

Capitanes de Arecibo to Appeal FIBA Decision - by Luis Ramirez
According to local reports, the Arecibo Captains who were participating of the FIBA Americas League Tournament this week as part of Group A which included Minas of Brazil, Merengueros of the Dominican Republic and Pioneros of Mexico will file an appeal before the Puerto Rico FIBA representative alleging that the 1st place finish did not belong to Minas of Brazil as initially determined by FIBA.
Playing last night against Minas, Arecibo had been led to believe that they would need to win by at least 15 points in order to gain the top slot and be entitled to participate in a final four tournament later next year. They beat Minas by a 14 point margin, 95-81. Now, the Arecibo Captains are alleging that the goal average computation was miscalculated and that they only needed 14 points to earn their pass to the final four. A decision will be made by FIBA next week, stay tuned for this unexpected event.

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  SERBIA   


Real grabs thriller win against Partizan in Madrid - by Eurobasket News
Real Madrid - Partizan Belgrade 68-67

It was extremely important game for both teams, especially for Real Madrid. The hosts were under the big pressure, what visitors almost exploited. Actually, after few impressive bombs by Novica Velickovic (205-F-86), Milenko Tepic (198-G-87, agency: Beo Basket) and Uros Tripkovic (196-G-86), Partizan had 65-67 with 44 seconds to go. Croatian Marko Tomas (200-G-85) was hero of the game as he stepped up with 7-meter triple for a turn, 68-67. Partizan had the last possession, but Lopez made a crucial steal securing the precious victory for his team. Center Felipe Reyes (203-F/C-80) top-scored for Real with 15 points. He also grabbed 9 more rebounds. The clutch player of the game Marko Tomas drained 10 points in total, while Jeremiah Massey (202-F-82, college: Kansas St.) added 7 points and 6 rebounds. Uros Tripkovic was on fire making 6 of 8 attempts from behind the arc, 22 points. Novica Velickovic scored 10 and Strahinja Milosevic (203-G/F-85, agency: Beo Basket) netted 9 points for the visitors. Real 4-3, Partizan 3-4 in Group D.
Real Madrid was a way better team at the beginning. The hosts made 10-point lead quickly 14-4, later finishing the first quarter with comfortable 24-9. After basket by Alex Mumbru in the opening minute of second frame, Real jumped on plus 17, 26-9. Uros Tripkovic, together with Strahinja Milosevic and Zarko Rakocevic (205-F-84), succeeded to close the gap on 12 points until the half time, 36-24. At the half way of third stanza Real had 42-29, but thanks to Uros Tripkovic and Petar Bozic (197-G-78), Partizan made 10-20 run. It was 52-49 after 30 minutes. Real had 59-55 with 3 minutes left after what Novica Velickovic (2) and Milenko Tepic (1) made it from beyond the arc. In the meantime Lopez answered on the other side. As it is mentioned above, Marko Tomas became hero of the game with a long range triple.

Real Madrid: Felipe Reyes 15+9 boards, Marko Tomas 10, Jeremiah Massey 7+6 boards
Partizan Belgrade: Uros Tripkovic 22+4 as, Novica Velickovic 10+4 boards, Strahinja Milosevic 9

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  SLOVENIA   


Drobnjak in Turow, Gorica Targets Trivunovic - by Jan Flac

Dragisa Drobnjak (200-F-77, agency: Beo Basket) announced he will continue his career in Turrow in Poland under very well acknowledged Slovenian coach Saso Filipovski. He signed till the end of the season (source: kosarka.si).

Nova Gorica is negotiating with Mitar Trivunovic (196-G-77, agency: 011 Sports), but also some other Slovenian clubs are interested in this player. .



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  SOUTH KOREA   


KBL Round: 13 (Regular Season) - by Eurobasket News
Orions - Mobis Phoebus 93-78
Orions sent Mobis Phoebus out of the top spot defeating them 93:78 at home in Regular Season Round 13. Daniels Chris led the winners with 25 points and Thompson Garnett had 24. Dunston Bryant and Ham Ji-Hoon scored 19 points each in defeat.

KT&G Kites - ET Land B.Sl. 90-92
KT&G Kites sensationally lost to ET Land 90:92 as Powell Carlos exploded with 40 points and 14 rebounds for the winners. Chandler Marquin ended up with 35 points and 8 rebounds for the home side.

Dongbu Promy - SK Knights 90-89
Dongbu Promy moved on top on December 12th after a win over SK Knights 90:89. White Wendell paced all the winners with 26 points and Okosa Reggie collected 18 points and 13 boards. Bang Sung-Yun and Collins DeAngelo shined with 27 points each in defeat.

KTF M.Wings - Samsung Th. 70-85
Samsung celebrated a 85:70 road victory today against KTF M.Wings behind 21 points from Leather Terrence. Park Sang-Oh chipped in 19 points in the losing effort.

LG Sakers - KTF M.Wings 88-83
LG Sakers overcame KTF M.Wings 88:83 on December 9th. Crump Brandon top-scored for the winners with 28 points and 11 rebounds, whilst Park Ji-Hyon added 17. Park Sang-Oh produced 24 points for the guests.

SK Knights - Samsung Th. 86-66
Bang Sung-Yun led SK Knights over Samsung in a 86:66 win on December 10th with 23 points. Shannon Terrence posted 20 and Collins DeAngelo collected 12 points and 19 rebounds. Leather Terrence had 16 points and 10 caroms in defeat.

KCC Egis - Dongbu Promy 68-79
KCC Egis lost to Dongbu Promy 68:79 as Okosa Reggie top-scored for the winners with 23 points, 15 rebounds and 7 assists. Ha Seung-Jin grabbed 16 points and 12 rebounds in the losing effort.



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  SPAIN   


Real grabs thriller win against Partizan in Madrid - by Eurobasket News
Real Madrid - Partizan Belgrade 68-67

It was extremely important game for both teams, especially for Real Madrid. The hosts were under the big pressure, what visitors almost exploited. Actually, after few impressive bombs by Novica Velickovic (205-F-86), Milenko Tepic (198-G-87, agency: Beo Basket) and Uros Tripkovic (196-G-86), Partizan had 65-67 with 44 seconds to go. Croatian Marko Tomas (200-G-85) was hero of the game as he stepped up with 7-meter triple for a turn, 68-67. Partizan had the last possession, but Lopez made a crucial steal securing the precious victory for his team. Center Felipe Reyes (203-F/C-80) top-scored for Real with 15 points. He also grabbed 9 more rebounds. The clutch player of the game Marko Tomas drained 10 points in total, while Jeremiah Massey (202-F-82, college: Kansas St.) added 7 points and 6 rebounds. Uros Tripkovic was on fire making 6 of 8 attempts from behind the arc, 22 points. Novica Velickovic scored 10 and Strahinja Milosevic (203-G/F-85, agency: Beo Basket) netted 9 points for the visitors. Real 4-3, Partizan 3-4 in Group D.
Real Madrid was a way better team at the beginning. The hosts made 10-point lead quickly 14-4, later finishing the first quarter with comfortable 24-9. After basket by Alex Mumbru in the opening minute of second frame, Real jumped on plus 17, 26-9. Uros Tripkovic, together with Strahinja Milosevic and Zarko Rakocevic (205-F-84), succeeded to close the gap on 12 points until the half time, 36-24. At the half way of third stanza Real had 42-29, but thanks to Uros Tripkovic and Petar Bozic (197-G-78), Partizan made 10-20 run. It was 52-49 after 30 minutes. Real had 59-55 with 3 minutes left after what Novica Velickovic (2) and Milenko Tepic (1) made it from beyond the arc. In the meantime Lopez answered on the other side. As it is mentioned above, Marko Tomas became hero of the game with a long range triple.

Real Madrid: Felipe Reyes 15+9 boards, Marko Tomas 10, Jeremiah Massey 7+6 boards
Partizan Belgrade: Uros Tripkovic 22+4 as, Novica Velickovic 10+4 boards, Strahinja Milosevic 9

Regal Barca crushes PAO in Athens - by Eurobasket News
PAO - Regal Barca 76-87

Regal Barca handed the second Euroleague defeat to Panathinaikos this season. As a reminder, both teams entered into this round with almost perfect 5-1 record in Group B. PAO's only defeat before this game was in Barcelona, and it was the huge one 90-66. Barca already booked a spot for the TOP 16, while PAO will have a chance to do the same in the next round against SLUC Nancy. David Andersen (212-C-80) was a key payer for Barca nailing 22 points and pulling down 9 rebounds. Gianluca Basile (192-G-75) had 16 points, 4 rebs and 5 assists, while 'La Bomba' (Juan Carlos Navarro (192-G-80) this time stopped on 9 points and 5 assists. Big guy Mike Batiste (203-F-77, college: Arizona St.) once again shined for PAO collecting 21 points and 7 boards. Vassilis Spanoulis (193-G-82, agency: Beo Basket) had 13 pts and 5 assists, while Drew Nicholas (191-G-81, college: Maryland) netted 11 pts.
Regal Barca had impressive first half of the game. It was 5-1 and later, after JC Navaro's triple, Barca grabbed double-digit lead, 12-22. Antonis Fotsis (210-F-81) answered from downtown, but Ilyasova set the score on 18-25 after 10 minutes. At the middle of the second stanza Gianluca Basile came up with two wild triples for huge 22-39. At that point of game it seemed that the Greek powerhouse will face with another fiasco against Barca. However, Vassilis Spanoulis and Drew Nicholas made couple of nice decisions at the offensive end closing the gap on 11 pts at the half time, 38-49. After Sarunas Jasikevicius' (192-G-76, college: Maryland) points at the beginning of third quarter, PAO came on 42-49. Big guy David Andersen answered with few baskets leading Barca to 48-60. Roger Grimau (196-G-79) definitely resolved question about the winner with 5 consecutive points at the opening of the last 10 minutes. It was plus 20 for Barca. PAO had a chance close to the end, but Sarunas Jasikevicius missed an open triple after what Gianluca Basile made it from the fast break for 71-83 lead.

PAO: Mike Batiste 21+7 boards, Vassilis Spanoulis 13+5 as, Drew Nicholas 11
Regal Barca: David Andersen 22+9 boards, Gianluca Basile 16+4 boards+5 as, Juan Carlos Navarro 9+5 as

DKV Joventut stops Lottomatica in Badalona - by Eurobasket News
DKV Joventut - Lottomatica Roma 97-93

Lottomatica Roma missed a chance to secure a spot for the TOP 16 in Badalona. At the same time, the hosts made a huge step forward moving up on third place with 4-3 score. The team from Rome has 5-2. It is important to mention that it was the first official game for Fernando Gentile as Lottomatica's interim bench boss. Bracey Wright (191-G-84, college: Indiana) paced DKV Joventut to victory nailing 19 points and grabbing 7 rebounds. Luka Bogdanovic (206-F-85, agency: Beo Basket) also had very important role for the Spanish team netting 15 points for 28 minutes. Eduardo Hernandez-Sonseca (212-C-83) helped with 14, while Demond Mallet (186-G-78, agency: Higher Vision Sports, college: Mc Neese St.) had 12 points and 5 assists. Andre Hutson (202-F-79, college: Michigan St.) came up with 22 points and 8 boards for Lottomatica. Sani Becirovic (195-G-81, agency: Beo Basket) added 14 points and 5 assists. Brandon Jennings (183-G-89) scored 12 for the visitors.
First half was totally leveled, 48-48. DKV Joventut had high-scoring third stanza entering into the last ten minutes with decent 76-69. Andre Hutson and Brandon Jennings made it for Lottomatica creating mini 4-0 run. Joventut, actually Norel, made on FT after what Ibby Jaaber scored a lay-up for the visitors. However, Bracey Wright answered on the other side and together with Pau Ribas extended Joventut's lead to 6 points, 81-75. Lottomatica had a big troubles at the offensive end committing 20 turnovers already at the middle of the last stanza. Eduardo Hernandez-Sonseca made a basket for the hosts, which was followed by the triple from Demond Mallet. It was 86-75 at that moment. Soon after that Lavina stepped up for the hosts helping them to stretch the lead on 14, 91-77. Sani Becirovic closed the gap on 91-85 with 2 minutes to go, but Luka Bogdanovic drained a triple for Joventut after that. The team from Rome made quick 8-0 run at the end for 95-93, but unfortunately to them it was followed by intentional foul and 2 successful FTs by Pau Ribas. The hosts also had a ball meaning that this game was already over for Lottomatica.

DKV Joventut: Bracey Wright 19+7 boards, Luka Bogdanovic 15, Eduardo Hernandez-Sonseca 14, Demond Mallet 12+5 as
Lottomatica Roma: Andre Hutson 22+8 boards, Sani Becirovic 14+5 as, Brandon Jennings 12

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  SWITZERLAND   


Starwings Win on the Road in Thrilling Fashion! - by Jay Gadsden
Starwings and Boncourt kicked off the LNA Round 11 in exciting fashion, with an action-packed game hosted at Boncourt. Starwings prevailed in dramatic fashion on the road by a two point margin, 77-75, to improve to 6-5, and sit comfortably in the middle of the table.

The Starwings now have more than a week to prepare for a critical round 12 game against Nyon, which currently sits fourth in the table, just one-half game better than Starwings. Meanwhile, Boncourt will look to rebound in week 12 when they face off against Lausanne on the road. Lausanne sits at 5-5, and hopes to make a playoff push in the second half of the season, beginning with this weekend's game against Massagno, which sits at the bottom of the table.

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  TURKEY   


Standings - TBL
TBL Standings
 1. Efes Pilsen 8-1 
 2. Galatasaray 8-1 
 3. T.Telekom 7-2 
 4. Banvit 7-3 
 5. Fener.Ulker 6-3 
 6. Mersin 5-4 
 7. Aliaga 5-4 
 8. Darussafaka 5-4 
 9. Antalya 5-4 
 10. Selcuk Uni. 4-5 
 11. Karsiyaka 4-6 
 12. Besiktas 4-6 
 13. Oyak Renault 3-6 
 14. Erdemir 2-7 
 15. TED Koleji 0-9 
 16. Kepez Bld 0-9 


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  U.S. VIRGIN ISLANDS   


Christmas Comes Early At North Catholic - by David Edole
Philadelphia The journey has been nothing like he ever dreamt.

In the beginning, he was timid, hesitant to explore his own skills and athleticism. But time has given birth to some confidence.

Hes almost there.

Rakeem Christmas is ready to blossom.

Having traveled a challenging road that led him from New Jersey to the Virgin Islands to Philadelphia, the North Catholic sophomore is about to take the city by storm. Those in basketball circles have uttered his name often since he arrived in town three years ago. This kid has everything, theyd say. And indeed he does.

Standing a hair over 6-foot-8 and checking in at 227 pounds, Christmas wingspan stretches more than 7 feet. Basketball coaches love to say that you cant teach size and athleticism. Well, Christmas has both.

Hes just starting to come into his own, said North Catholic coach Mike McCarron. When he does, I really believe that he will be one of the best players to come out of the Catholic League in a long, long time.

Before we look to Christmas future, lets go back to his past. Originally born in Irvington, N.J., he and his mother moved to St. Croix when he was 3 years old. While in the Virgin Islands, his mother, Landra Jenny Hamid, passed away due to renal failure at the age of 28. He remained in St. Croix and was raised there by his grandmother.

Through grade school, Christmas excelled in baseball. But as he became a better pitcher, he also grew taller and taller. Thats when the hardwood came calling. He picked up a basketball for the first time in seventh grade and never looked back. He was already 6-4.

At 13 years old, Christmas was too old to play as an eighth grader at his school in St. Croix. His adolescence was dotted with occasional trips back to the states to visit family. But it was clear that the time had come for a permanent visit. Christmas packed his bags and moved to Philadelphia.

Here, Amira Hamid was waiting. His aunt would take on the role of his legal guardian. Hamids first order of business was to enroll her nephew in the eighth grade at George W. Pepper Middle School. Soon after, high school basketball coaches got word of the kid from the Virgin Islands. Christmas could do two things jump and run. He was void of any legitimate talent. But that meant nothing to area coaches.

I just went with the flow and adapted, Christmas said nonchalantly, referring to his game as an eight-grader.

His aunt quickly jumped in to clarify that statement.

He was horrible, she said plainly.

Christmas didnt argue the assessment. His guilty grin said that he agreed.

According to Hamid, the high school recruitment of Christmas was crazy, unlike anything I could have imagined. In the end, North Catholic won due to its family atmosphere. Christmas became a Falcon, despite the hour-plus commute it takes from Hamids home near the airport to North Catholics home in the Juniata section of Philadelphia.

As a freshman, Christmas played sparingly for a team featuring seven seniors. Some games, he barely got on the floor, but he was always the kid everyone curiously pointed to and said, Who is that? He stood out like a peacock among pigeons.

Everyone talks about his size, but hes got the hands of a guard and he can run the floor with any guard or forward, McCarron said. Hes also very unselfish. There are two types of players givers and takers. Rakeem is a giver. He loves to pass the ball and has really developed good court vision.

The North Catholic coaching staff has set a firm goal for Christmas sophomore season. They want the 17-year-old (he was held back a grade while in St. Croix) to develop three unstoppable post moves by the time the playoffs roll around.

Its odd for Christmas to think of himself as a dominant player in the Catholic League. When he arrived in the United States, the gangly teenager was leap years behind the competition.

At first, I used to be scared to play with other people, he said last week, lounging in an empty North Catholic cafeteria. I could dunk and all, but people would push me around.

Just a few years later, the kid who was intimidated on a daily basis is now the most highly sought after sophomore prospect in Philadelphia. Nationally, his profile has exploded. ESPNU has him ranked as the No. 7 player in the Class of 2011 and raves that he is

developing before our eyes into a true force nationally. Additionally, the folks at ESPNU scored him a 97 out of 100 and state that he is considering Florida and Memphis, though Habin and Christmas wouldnt comment on specific schools theyre looking at.

I didnt think this would happen, Christmas said. I just came (to Philadelphia) to live with Amira and play basketball. I didnt think any of this was possible.

This season, Christmas will team with returning starters Woody Redding and Bob Makor, along with transfer Jack ONeill, who led Episcopal Academy in scoring and rebounding as a sophomore, to try and claim North Catholics second straight Catholic League title.

Like his journey from Jersey to St. Croix to Philly, Christmas has gone from an apprehensive eighth-grader, to a little-used freshman, to Phillys top sophomore.

At long last, Christmas is in full bloom.

When I was in eighth grade, I realized if I played basketball, I could get a free education, Christmas said, the disbelief still fresh on his face. All I plan on doing is working hard to do that.

By Brendan F. Quinn, The Bulletin

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  UKRAINE   


UBL Round: 21 (Regular Season) - by Eurobasket News
BC Odessa - Polit.Lviv 102-95
Odessa held off Politekhnika-Halychyna in the key game of Round 21. Odessa led for the majority of the encounter but the Lviv managed to force overtime at the end. But an inspiring performance from Otis Hill and veteran Oleg Yushkin allowed the hosts to celebrate a tough win at the end. Otis Hill knocked down 20 points to lead the charge. Justin Love added 17 points and 6 assists for the winners. Volodymyr Gurtovoy answered with 15 points for Lviv.

Gryfony - Hoverla 55-60
Hoverla earned the sixth win in the season as they overcame Gryfony on the road. Damien Kinloch came up with 11 points for Hoverla. Aivaras Kiausis, Andrei Lebedev and Tate Decker added 10 points each in the win. Predrag Miletic and Anthony Slack responded with 10 points apiece in defeat.

Cherkasy - Dnipro 73-65
Cherkasy toppled Dnipro in the key game of Round 21 in the UBL. Ivan Koljevic scored 21 points to pace Cherkasy to the 14th win in the tournament. Vladislav Dragoljevic added 18 points in the win. Patrick Beverley and Oleksandr Panchenko responded with 14 points each for Dnipro in defeat.

Budivelnyk - Ferro-ZNTU 115-88
Budivelnyk thrashed Ferro-ZNTU for the 11th victory in the season. Tomas Delininkaitis continued to prove his class with 31 points and 7 assists in the game. John DeGroat contributed 23 points in the win. Jason Fontenet replied with 18 points in the losing effort.





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Women News

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  AUSTRALIA - Women  


Lauren Jackson top-scores again and again - by Eurobasket News
Lauren Jackson (196-F/C-81) top-scores again and again for Spartak Moscow Region that crush Kosice Broker at home court to remain on top of Group D. Lauren Jackson netted 23 points to pace the hosts. Diana Taurasi contributed 15 points, 6 boards and 4 assists for the winning team. Cathrine Kraayeveld responded with 22 points for Kosice in the loss.The two-time defending champions started to ruin the opponents in the very beginning and Shchegoleva brought the hosts 22:8. Sue Bird closed the offensive period for the home side at 29:12. Broker Kosice failed to score until 6:21 remained in the frame and by that time, Spartak had a 42:14 stranglehold on the contest. Shchegoleva with a lay-up gave Spartak Moscow Region 60:24 at the halftime. There was no way the guests could come into the game as Spartak Moscow Region improved to 8-1 in the group.
Before that the reigning Euroleague champions Spartak proved once again they gained the maximum speed at the moment victimizing Fenerbahce on the road. Lauren Jackson exploded with 33 points and 8 rebounds to lead Spartak. Diana Taurasi contributed 22 points and 7 assists, while Sue Bird had 14 points and 11 assists in the winning case. Tammy Sutton-Brown had 18 points for Fenerbahce as they suffered the third loss in the tournament. Australian International produced the best game so far this season and put her team on top with 7-1 record. It was her to close the Russian lead at 7:0 from the start. In a very offensive period for the guests Miller brought 29:15 at the end of it. Nothing specific had happened in the second quarter as Spartak continued to dominate. Lauren Jackson sent the teams to the lockers for 53:33 at the halftime. Tammy Sutton-Brown posted two late in the third for 49:67. Shchegoleva was the last to score at the end of the period for 72:53. The game was done at that time for the reigning Euroleague champions, but the task was to reach three digits. Lauren Jackson did not want to sit down for the bench and was the key player at the end. She made two free throws for 94:73 lead and Shchegoleva posted 100 for her team with 18 seconds remaining.

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  BALTIC LEAGUE - Women  


Kazakhstan NT comes back from another trip - by Eurobasket News
Kazakhstan NT comes back from another trip where they played three mores games in Baltic league. One victory and two losses saw the latest games over the Ukrainian squads.
On December 5th TIM-SCUF overcame Kazakhstan NT 92:70. After 21-21 in the opening quarter Ukrainian side won the rest three quarters and dominated in the court. Dorogobuzova led the winners with 29 points for 4-2 record. Yana Shkarpeta (176-F-87) nailed 20 and Ol'ha Maznichenko (186-F-91) had 17 points. Natalia Kuzmicheva (194-F) produced 16 in defeat and Korotkaya scored 15.
Kazakhstan NT beat Olimp/NAEK 64:60. The guests opened the game with 15-11 and then had 4 points at the halftime. Olimp/NAEK reduced to only 1 entering the last stanza, but did not stay tough at the end. Baidussenova top-scored for the winners with 19 points, while Natalia Kuzmicheva added 15. Buryak led the hosts with 17 points.
Kozachka-Zalk stun Kazakhstan NT 112:71 to jump on 5-1 record. With 29-14 the hosts started the game and then extended the lead after 27-11 in the second frame. Iryna Biryuk (178-G-78, agency: Promotex) paced all the winners with 26 points, whilst Charity Egenti (191-C-85, college: Stephen F. Austin) scored 24. Natalia Kuzmicheva finished the night with 18 points in defeat and Ivanova had 14.

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  BELGIUM - Women  


Dexia victorious in Czech Republic - by Eurobasket News
Eurocup 1/16 Finals: Kara Trutnov - Dexia 72-84

Belgian Dexia Namur grabbed it vs Kara Trutnov on the road getting real close to EuroCup 1/8 finals. The second game will be played in Belgium on December 18. Dexia had 4 players with more than 15 points. Krystyna Szymanska-Lara (173-G-69) scored the most, 18 pts. Pauline Akonga Nsimbo (187-F/C-82, agency: LBM Management) netted 17, but including 9 rebounds. Marjorie Carpreaux (165-G-87, agency: LBM Management) also delivered 17 points, grabbing 6 more boards. Olesya Malashenko (188-F-91, agency: LBM Management) stopped on 16 pts. Darina Misurova (163-G-81) answered with 20 points and 9 boards for the hosts. Michaela Hartigova (192-C-83) also had decent performance for Kara Trutnov posting 17 points.
Dexia was slightly better team in the first half, despite just 3-point lead at the end of it. With almost 3 minutes remaining in the second frame Dexia reached plus 8, 37-45. However, mostly owing to Michaela Hartigova and Stepanova Kara Trutnov closed the gap on 3. Just few minutes in third frame was enough for the host to make a turn, 52-51. Olesya Malashenko and Agabalova made few baskets at the end of it helping Dexia to take back its lead, 60-65. Last stanza started with 13-6 run for Dexia and it was a clear sign that Kara Trutnov won't have any chance until the end.

Kara Trutnov: Darina Misurova 20+9 boards, Michaela Hartigova 17
Dexia: Krystyna Szymanska-Lara 18, Pauline Akonga Nsimbo 17+9 boards, Marjorie Carpreaux 17+6 boards, Olesya Malashenko 16

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  BRAZIL - Women  


Alessandra Santos shines in France - by Eurobasket News
Alessandra Santos (200-C-73) and her Bourges returned on top of Euroleague Group A as they thumped Halcon Avenida. Bourges lost to Nadezhda in the previous round but had little doubts about this one. Alessandra Santos notched 21 points and 15 boards to ensure an impressive win for Bourges. Catherine Melain contributed 14 points for the winners. Anke De Mondt knocked down 13 points for Halcon Avenida in the loss. The hosts raced ahead early in the encounter. Catherine Melain, Ana Lelas and Alessandra Santos gave the French team a 14:5 lead. Manic and Alessandra Santos capped the quarter strong for the home team as Bourges led 20:11. Nora Bujdoso, Endene Miyem and Celine Dumerc stretched the gap to 15 points at the start of the second period. Halcon Avenida had little to answer with and they trailed by 15 points at the interval. Alessandra Santos and Catherine Melain tipped off the second half with 5 straight points for a 49:29 advantage. Avenida however answered with an 11:2 rally to cut the deficit to 11 points. Catherine Melain and Nora Bujdoso though made it a 58:42 game entering the final stanza. Alessandra Santos and Nora Bujdoso began the final term with 4 straight points and Bourges never looked back again.
Graziane Coelho (192-C-83) and her MiZo Pecs stops Nadezhda's run and ruin their hopes of a play-off spot while keeping alive their own chance of a third-place finish. MiZo Pecs 2010 overcame Nadezhda 88:70 to finish Euroleague Round 9. Anna Vajda led the winners with 26 points and 10 rebounds. Kelly Mazzante nailed 21, while Graziane Coelho scored 12. Betty Lennox resisted for the visitors with 23 points. The home side posted first six points in the game as Graziane Coelho scored for 6:0. MiZo Pecs 2010 looked better in the opening quarter and won it 23:17. Anna Vajda brought 31:17 as Hungarian side produced 8-0 from the start of the second frame. By half-time, they had a stranglehold on the game with a 54:35 lead when Ivanyi was perfect from the free throw line. The game became even in the second half, but the hosts did not allow the opponents to come closer. Anna Vajda made it 67:47, whilst Veremeenko closed the third period at 70:51. Queenan was the last to score in the game for 88:70.
Erika De Souza (197-C-82) had 4 points and 2 rebounds as Ros Casares breezed past Valenciennes in Euroleague. Delisha Ros Casares remained in the second spot in Group C. Delisha Milton-Jones opened the game with a three-pointer to get things rolling for the visitors. She tallied 7 points in the starting frame and Ros Casares enjoyed a 17:14 lead at the first break. The visitors maintained the lead and when Roneeka Hodges fired twice from behind the arc Ros Casares closed the first half with a 9-point advantage. Milton-Jones, Roneeka Hodges and Elisa Aguilar teamed up to extend the gap to 20 points early in the third frame. Ros Casares eased to a 24-point buffer Valenciennes never recovered in the fourth quarter and Ros Casares secured the seventh victory in the tournament.

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  CANADA - Women  


Sutton-Brown celebrated a road success with her Fener - by Eurobasket News
Fenerbahce celebrated a road success over Montpellier 70:61 in the latest game of Euroleague. The Turkish outfit grabbed 19:18 after the opening quarter when Tuncluer made it clear in the game. After 24-18 in the second quarter the hosts however recovered and had 41:34 at the halftime. Fenerbahce had good defense in the third period and after 21-9 led to 55:50 after 30 minutes of the game. They never looked behind after that and grabbed the important road victory. Matee Ajavon dropped 22 points to lead the way for the Turkish team. Tammy Sutton-Brown (193-C-78, college: Rutgers) added 19 points and 11 boards for the winning team. Sheana Mosch secured 23 points in the loss.
Before that the reigning Euroleague champions Spartak proved once again they gained the maximum speed at the moment victimizing Fenerbahce on the road. Lauren Jackson exploded with 33 points and 8 rebounds to lead Spartak. Diana Taurasi contributed 22 points and 7 assists, while Sue Bird had 14 points and 11 assists in the winning case. Tammy Sutton-Brown had 18 points for Fenerbahce as they suffered the third loss in the tournament. Australian International produced the best game so far this season and put her team on top with 7-1 record. It was her to close the Russian lead at 7:0 from the start. In a very offensive period for the guests Miller brought 29:15 at the end of it. Nothing specific had happened in the second quarter as Spartak continued to dominate. Lauren Jackson sent the teams to the lockers for 53:33 at the halftime. Tammy Sutton-Brown posted two late in the third for 49:67. Shchegoleva was the last to score at the end of the period for 72:53. The game was done at that time for the reigning Euroleague champions, but the task was to reach three digits. Lauren Jackson did not want to sit down for the bench and was the key player at the end. She made two free throws for 94:73 lead and Shchegoleva posted 100 for her team with 18 seconds remaining.

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  CROATIA - Women  


Gospic edges Lavezzini in Croatia 60-55 - by Eurobasket News
Eurocup 1/16 Finals: Gospic - Lavezzini PA 60-55

After 5-point win for Gospic CO at home, both teams will have a chance to fight for the EuroCup 1/8 finals. Lavezzini is very dangerous at its home court in Parma, and it could be said that Italian representative has slightly bigger chances to reach it. Anyway. Gospic was pretty good in this game mostly owing to Marija Vrsaljko (195-C-89), who nailed 15 points and grabbed 8 rebounds. Jelena Ivezic (184-G-84) was behind her with 10 pts. Lavezzini got 17 points and 5 boards from Jennifer Screen (180-G-82). Daliborka Vilipic (196-C-75) had one point less, but including 6 boards.
Gospic opened the game with 5-0. After lay-up by Marija Vrsaljko it was 18-11. Daliborka Vilipic made a jumper at the Lavezzini's last possession in the first frame for 20-17. Nothing has changed during the following 10 minutes. Gospic was the team who dominated, ending the first half with plus 11, 43-32. Once again Daliborka Vilipic scored it for Lavezzini cutting margin from 13-11. The hosts didn't have any problems to keep 8-point lead in third stanza. Crucial period of the game was middle of the last quarter. Lavezzini created 7-0 run coming on 56-54. Both teams missed couple of shots at the very end and the final score was the one from 1:26 to go, 60-55.

Gospic: Marija Vrsaljko 15+8 boards, Jelena Ivezic 10,
Lavezzini: Jennifer Screen 17+5 boards, Daliborka Vilipic 16+6 boards

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  CYPRUS - Women  


AEL outsmarts powerful Rivas Ecopolis - by Eurobasket News
Eurocup 1/16 Finals: AEL - Rivas Ecopolis 62-58

4-point home win for AEL in the first game of the EuroCup 1/16 finals. Cypriot representative was pretty good against the powerful Rivas Ecopilis, but it is hard to believe they will survive in Spain next week. Milena Vukicevic (188-F/C-80) led the hosts scoring 17 points. Natasha Lacy (178-G-85, college: UTEP) and Vukicevic's country mate Biljana Pesovic (180-G-83) added 11 pts each. Lacy had 7 more rebounds beside that. Laura Camps (180-F-76) and Miljana Musovic (180-G-87) netted 12 points apiece for Rivas Ecopolis. Petra Ujhelyi (192-C-80, college: S.Carolina) had double-double, 11 points and 11 boards.
Rivas Ecopolis had pretty decent beginning. After opening 2-0, visitors made 10-1 run. However, Milena Vukicevic and her teammates immediately answered creating impressive 15-3 run. It was 18-13 after 10 minutes. Milena Vukicevic made 2 FTs in 14th minute for plus 12, 32-20. Until the half time visitors managed to close the gap on 8, 34-26. Rivas Ecopolis was unable to come any closer than 4 points in third stanza, which ended 51-42. Anyway with less then a minute to go in the game Rivas made 5-0. Milena Vukicevic once again stepped up for her team with a lay-up for the final score 62-58.

AEL: Milena Vukicevic 17, Natasha Lacy 11+7 boards, Biljana Pesovic 11
Rivas Ecopolis: Laura Camps 12, Miljana Musovic 12, Petra Ujhelyi 11+11 boards

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  CZECH REPUBLIC - Women  


Dexia victorious in Czech Republic - by Eurobasket News
Eurocup 1/16 Finals: Kara Trutnov - Dexia 72-84

Belgian Dexia Namur grabbed it vs Kara Trutnov on the road getting real close to EuroCup 1/8 finals. The second game will be played in Belgium on December 18. Dexia had 4 players with more than 15 points. Krystyna Szymanska-Lara (173-G-69) scored the most, 18 pts. Pauline Akonga Nsimbo (187-F/C-82, agency: LBM Management) netted 17, but including 9 rebounds. Marjorie Carpreaux (165-G-87, agency: LBM Management) also delivered 17 points, grabbing 6 more boards. Olesya Malashenko (188-F-91, agency: LBM Management) stopped on 16 pts. Darina Misurova (163-G-81) answered with 20 points and 9 boards for the hosts. Michaela Hartigova (192-C-83) also had decent performance for Kara Trutnov posting 17 points.
Dexia was slightly better team in the first half, despite just 3-point lead at the end of it. With almost 3 minutes remaining in the second frame Dexia reached plus 8, 37-45. However, mostly owing to Michaela Hartigova and Stepanova Kara Trutnov closed the gap on 3. Just few minutes in third frame was enough for the host to make a turn, 52-51. Olesya Malashenko and Agabalova made few baskets at the end of it helping Dexia to take back its lead, 60-65. Last stanza started with 13-6 run for Dexia and it was a clear sign that Kara Trutnov won't have any chance until the end.

Kara Trutnov: Darina Misurova 20+9 boards, Michaela Hartigova 17
Dexia: Krystyna Szymanska-Lara 18, Pauline Akonga Nsimbo 17+9 boards, Marjorie Carpreaux 17+6 boards, Olesya Malashenko 16

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  ESTONIA - Women  


Anderson tries in EuroLeague - by Eurobasket News
Merike Anderson (181-G/F-81) nailed 3 points and had 2 rebounds for her TTT Riga in Euroleague campaign. The last seasons Euroleague finalists Gambrinus secured the however fourth win in the this years competition. Yesterday they held off TTT Riga in Group B action.
Gambrinus got an outstanding start to the game. The hosts nailed 14 unanswered points to grab the lead. However TTT Riga soon recovered and answered with a 13:2 rally to cut the deficit. Ieva Kublina tied the teams late in the first term before Eva Viteckova dropped two freebies for Gambrinus 25:23 lead at the first break. The lead changed hands for several times throughout the second term before Hana Horakova, Timea Beres and Eva Viteckova capped the half with 7 straight points to give Gambrinus a 45:38 lead at halftime. Hana Horakova and Tamika Whitmore stretched the margin to 12 points early in the third quarter. The hosts maintained the lead however Essence Carson and Aija Brumermane allowed TTT Riga to head to the final stanza down by just 5 points. Ieva Kublina and Essence Carson squared things up once again midway through the fourth quarter. However Hamchetou Maiga and Hana Horakova converted layups, and then Hana Horakova chipped in three free throws for Gambrinus to pull away in this one. Hana Horakova finished with 23 points to pace the hosts. Tamika Whitmore added 22 points and 10 boards for the winners. Essence Carson answered with game-high 33 points for TTT Riga. Tatyana Troina had 19 points in the sixth loss for TTT Riga. Merike Anderson averages 1.2 points per game and 1.0 rebound.

Hard win for Tallinna Kalev in Round 8 - by Eurobasket News
Tallinna Kalev struggled throughout the game but managed to eke out a tough 75:72 win over Tartu in Round 8. Jekaterina Tamkorv (179-F-85) knocked down 26 points and grabbed 10 boards to lead Tallinna Kalev to the third success in the season. Aleksandra Skorohhodova (182-F-87) added 24 points and 6 steals in the win. Liisi Sokman (168-G-88) answered with 20 points and 11 boards for Tartu. Jaanika Kurgjarv secured 15 points in the defeat.
Tartu led by a single point at the first intermission but Kalev stepped on the gas in the second frame. They outgunned the visitors 26:14 to enjoy an 11-point cushion at the interval. Tartu was the better side after the long break but Kalev held on well to the lead and survived at the end. Tartu slipped at 2-5 record after the loss.
Tallinna Living in the meantime ensured the fifth victory in the Meistriiliga. They held off Audentes 96:63 at home court. Kerttu Jallai (180-F-90, agency: Regeneracom Sports) secured 27 points and 9 boards to pace the home team. Solveig Keskula (180-F-92) contributed 14 points for the winners. Mailis Pokk (185-C-92) answered with 17 points for Audentes as they suffered the seventh straight loss.

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  EUROCUP - Women  


Eurocup Round: 7 (1/16 Finals) - by Eurobasket News
Spartak N. - Hemofarm 57-73
Hemofarm Vrsac made fantastic result in the first game of EuroCup 1/16 finals against Spartak Noginsk on the road. Serbian team earned 16-point lead before the second game in Vrsac. Point guard Biljana Stankovic top-scored for the winning squad with 18 points. At the same time she had 6 rebounds and 6 assists. Center Dara Kovacevic registered double-double, 13 points and 12 boards, while Dajana Butulija helped adding 12 points and 7 boards. Danijela Rizvic was the last one with double-digits in scoring for Hemofarm netting 10 pts. Spartak Noginsk got 13 points from Romanova Svetlana. Shagan Victoria had 12, while Tsekhmeyster Irina contributed with 10 points and 8 rebounds. Second game is scheduled for December 18.

Challes - Esperides 62-77
Esperides demonstrated fantastic performance in France beating Challes by 15 points. It was the first game of EuroCup 1/16 finals. Second one will be played in Greece on December 18. Kaltsidou Stella paced Esperides to victory draining impressive 28 points. Kalentzou Dimitra also was on high level collecting 20 points and 7 boards. She had 2/2 FG2, 3/7 for 3-pts and 7/7 from the FT line. All other players had 8 or less points. Janostinova Sylvia was better than the others in defeat netting 22 points and pulling down 9 rebounds. Luptakova Martina was behind her with double-double, 15 points and 10 boards, while Copeland Kirby stopped on 12 pts.

Tarbes - ICIM Arad 96-52
This game was the second one between Tarbes and ICIM Arad. In the first French representative also registered devastating victory advancing to the EuroCup 1/8 finals. First game was played yesterday, also in France. Tzekova Polina this time led the scorers in Tarbes with 24 points. Moeggenberg Elizabeth Ann was behind her with 16 plus 6 rebs. Eldebrink Frida scored 12. Tarta Ramona collected 16 points and 8 rebounds for the loosing side. Meszaros Anita contributed with 14 points and 11 boards.

Sf.Gheorghe - Taranto 66-71
Taranto did a nice job in Romania. Batkovic Suzy and her teammates outplayed Sf.Gheorghe making a huge step forward to EuroCup 1/8 finals. As usually, Batkovic came off the bench. She nailed 15 points and grabed 5 rebounds for 21 minutes. Mahoney Megan and David Ilisaine helped with 12 points each. Greco Michelle had one point less. Zoll Sharnee shined for the hosts with 21 points and 6 assists. Diatta Salimata netted 11 pts. Second game between these two teams will be played on December 18.

Panionios - Szeged 53-52
Panionios escaped with a tiny home victory against the Hungarian Szeged in the first game of EuroCup 1/16 finals. Will it be enough for the next stage will be known on December 17. Papamichail Pelagia stepped up for the hosts with double-double, 13 points and 11 rebounds. Nero Lori was the second scorer and at the same time the last one with double-digits for the hosts, 12 points. Tomova Milena had 12 pts and 5 boards in loss. Nemeth Bernadett followed adding 10 points and 6 assists.

Extrugasa - EBE Ibiza-PDV 61-79
Fantastic victory for Ibiza in Spanish EuroCup derby. It was the first game of the 1/16 finals and it is almost clear that Ibiza will get through it. Morales Silvia and Lyttle Sancho drained 18 points apiece for the winners. Gomez Regina came up with 16. Donaire Elsa scored 11 pts missing only one board for double-double. Zlatanova Jaklin led the losing side in scoring with 20 points. Da Silva Katia collected 16 pts plus 5 boards.

Olivais - Ramla 60-77
Ramla trashed Olivais on the road having couple of players in a game mood. White LaTanya was the top-scorer with 19 points, including 5 rebounds. For sure totally the best was Anosike Nicky, who scored 17 points and grabbed 15 rebounds (6 off). Ogorodnikova Olena added 18 pts and 6 rebs. Parham Aja delevered 24 points for the hosts. Anderson Ambrosia had 12 plus 5. It was the first game of the EuroCup 1/16 finals. The second one is scheduled for December 17.

AEL - Rivas Ecopolis 62-58
4-point home win for AEL in the first game of the EuroCup 1/16 finals. Cypriot representative was pretty good against the powerful Rvas Ecopilis, but it is hard to believe they will survive in Spain next week. Vukicevic Milena led the hosts scoring 17 points. Lacy Natasha and Vukicevic's country mate Pesovic Biljana added 11 pts each. Lacy had 7 more rebounds beside that. Camps Laura and Musovic Miljana netted 12 points apiece for Rivas Ecopolis. Ujhelyi Petra had double-double, 11 points and 11 boards.

Solna Vikings - Dynamo M. 58-75
The team of the head coach Natalia Hejkova celebrated in Sweden with plus 17. Maybe it is early, but it could easily be said that Dynamo Moscow is already seen in EuroCup 1/8 finals. Second game will be played in Moscow on December 18. Jekabsone-Zogota Anete shined for the winners collecting 15 points and 5 assists. Burse Jannell netted 13 points and grabbed 7 boards, while Snell Belinda added 10 points, 6 rebounds and 6 assists. Kuzina Marina had one point more. Solna got 16 points and 4 rebs from Egnell Elisabeth. Andersson Ida contributed with 10 points and 8 boards.

Botas - San Jose 67-65
Turkish Botas was better than Spanish San Jose in the first game of EuroCup 1/16 finals thanks to Walker Marcedes. She spent 35 minutes in the floor delivering 18 points and pulling down 16 rebounds. Tisdale Angela had 11, while Ivegin Ayse netted one point less for the hosts. Murphy Eshaya of San Jose was central figure in her team collecting 27 points and 8 rebounds. Butler Kimberly also shined scoring 20 points and grabbing 8 rebounds. Second game will be played in Leon on December 17.

Targoviste - Galatasaray 67-96
Magnificent victory for Galatasaray in Romania. It is clear that the Turkish team will get through the EuroCup 1/16 finals, even before the second game on December 18. McWilliams Tay stepped up for the winning squad with 22 points, 10 rebounds and 5 assists. Augustus Seimone also was unstoppable draining 21 points and grabbing 12 boards. Alben Isil had 17 pts, 4 rebs and 4 as. Toma Gabriela was better than the others in Targoviste with 18 points. Boriga Monika and Crasnoscioc Irina scored 11 points each.

U.Neuchatel - Chevakata 84-70
Neuchatel registered nice 14-point home win against dangerous Chevakata. It could be enough for the EuroCup 1/8 finals, but anyway there is at least 40 minutes more to be played in Russia on December 18. Charlier Sophie and Hicks Cameo were totally the best players of this game. Charlier netted 25 points (5 triples), including 4 rebounds and 9 assists. Hicks also was great adding 25 pts with 9 boards. Riverin Kadie helped the winners with 16 points. Bokareva Tatiana had double-double for the visiting side, 14 points and 12 rebounds. Sokolovskaya Irina did the same, but with 12 points and 10 rebs.

Mondeville - Dynamo K. 48-68
Dynamo Kursk cruised past Mondeville in France with plus 20. It is great advantage before the second game of EuroCup 1/16 in Russia. Interesting is that Dynamo had only 2 players with double-digits in scoring. The first one was Maksimenko Svetlana, who had 13 points, but also 5 rebounds. Bocharova Anastasia had 12 pts and also 5 rebs. Sarenac Rankica collected 12 points and 6 rebounds in loss.

ICIM Arad - Tarbes 58-110
Posted on December 11: Tarbes gave a real basketball lesson to Baschet ICIM in the first game of EuroCup 1/16 finals. It is already clear that the French team will advance to the next stage. Interesting is that the second game will be played on Wednesday. Another very important information is that Tarbes was the host of the first and will be the host of the second game. Beatrice Castets was on a high level in Tarbes draining 23 points and dishing out 4 assists. Elizabeth Ann Moeggenberg also shined delivering 18 points and grabbing 7 rebounds, while Isabelle Yacoubou-Dehoui added 2 points less, but with 6 rebs. Ndeye Ndiaye netted 15 points in win. Baschet ICIM had only two players able to compete against powerful Tarbes. The first one was Anita Meszaros, who collected 26 points and 12 boards. Ramona Tarta was behind her with 15 pts.

Trutnov - Dexia 72-84
Belgian Dexia Namur grabbed it vs Kara Trutnov on the road getting real close to EuroCup 1/8 finals. The second game will be played in Belgium on December 18. Dexia had 4 players with more than 15 points. Szymanska-Lara Krystyna scored the most, 18 pts. Akonga Nsimbo Pauline netted 17, but including 9 rebounds. Carpreaux Marjorie also delivered 17 points, grabbing 6 more boards. Malashenko Olesya stopped on 16 pts. Misurova Darina answered with 20 points and 9 boards for the hosts. Hartigova Michaela also had decent performance for Kara Trutnov posting 17 points.

Gospic - Lavezzini PA 60-55
After 5-point win for Gospic CO at home, both teams will have a chance to fight for the EuroCup 1/8 finals. Lavezzini is very dangerous at its home court in Parma, and it could be said that Italian representative has slightly bigger chances to reach it. Anyway. Gospic was pretty good in this game mostly owing to Vrsaljko Marija, who nailed 15 points and grabbed 8 rebounds. Ivezic Jelena was behind her with 10 pts. Lavezzini got 17 points and 5 boards from Screen Jennifer. Vilipic Daliborka had one point less, but including 6 boards.

Cesis - Athinaikos 57-68
Athinaikos demonstrated nice performance in the first 1/16 final game against SK Cesis on the road. As a reminder, the Greek team advanced to this stage having almost perfect 5-1 record in Preliminary Group E. On the other side, Cesis was third ranked team in Group I with 3-3. Vasileia Gkouzini stepped up for Athinaikos in this very important match collecting 15 points and 8 assists. Polymnia Sarekgou netted 14, while Katie Gearlds helped the winning squad with 11 points and 4 rebounds. SK Cesis got the most from Nykesha Sales, 14 points. Karline Nimane added 10 points and 7 rebounds, while Kristine Karklina contributed with 9 pts in loss. The second leg is scheduled for December 18.

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  HUNGARY - Women  


MiZo Pecs stops Nadezhda's run - by Eurobasket News
MiZo Pecs 2010 - Nadezhda 88:70

MiZo Pecs stops Nadezhda's run and ruin their hopes of a play-off spot while keeping alive their own chance of a third-place finish. MiZo Pecs 2010 overcame Nadezhda 88:70 to finish Euroleague Round 9. Anna Vajda (191-F/C-84) led the winners with 26 points and 10 rebounds. Kelly Mazzante (183-G-82, college: Penn St.) nailed 21, while Graziane Coelho (192-C-83) scored 12. Betty Lennox (173-G-76, college: Louisiana Tech) resisted for the visitors with 23 points.
The home side posted first six points in the game as Graziane Coelho scored for 6:0. MiZo Pecs 2010 looked better in the opening quarter and won it 23:17. Anna Vajda brought 31:17 as Hungarian side produced 8-0 from the start of the second frame. By half-time, they had a stranglehold on the game with a 54:35 lead when Ivanyi was perfect from the free throw line.
The game became even in the second half, but the hosts did not allow the opponents to come closer. Anna Vajda made it 67:47, whilst Veremeenko closed the third period at 70:51. Queenan was the last to score in the game for 88:70.
In another games og the group Wisla earned the sixth victory in the Euroleague season as they knocked down Besiktas in Istanbul. Candice Dupree scored 18 points and grabbed 18 boards to pace the Polish team. Dominique Canty added 18 points for the winners. Laura Harper answered with 19 points and 16 boards as Besiktas stayed at the bottom of Group A.
Bourges cruised past Halcon Avenida to get back on top of Group A. Alessandra Santos tallied 21 points and 15 boards to lead the way for the French team. Catherine Melain added 14 points for the winners. Anke De Mondt replied with 13 points for Halcon as they suffered the third defeat in the Euroleague season.

MiZo Pecs 2010: Anna Vajda 26+10 rebs, Kelly Mazzante 21, Graziane Coelho 12
Nadezhda: Betty Lennox 23

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  ITALY - Women  


Gospic edges Lavezzini in Croatia 60-55 - by Eurobasket News
Eurocup 1/16 Finals: Gospic - Lavezzini PA 60-55

After 5-point win for Gospic CO at home, both teams will have a chance to fight for the EuroCup 1/8 finals. Lavezzini is very dangerous at its home court in Parma, and it could be said that Italian representative has slightly bigger chances to reach it. Anyway. Gospic was pretty good in this game mostly owing to Marija Vrsaljko (195-C-89), who nailed 15 points and grabbed 8 rebounds. Jelena Ivezic (184-G-84) was behind her with 10 pts. Lavezzini got 17 points and 5 boards from Jennifer Screen (180-G-82). Daliborka Vilipic (196-C-75) had one point less, but including 6 boards.
Gospic opened the game with 5-0. After lay-up by Marija Vrsaljko it was 18-11. Daliborka Vilipic made a jumper at the Lavezzini's last possession in the first frame for 20-17. Nothing has changed during the following 10 minutes. Gospic was the team who dominated, ending the first half with plus 11, 43-32. Once again Daliborka Vilipic scored it for Lavezzini cutting margin from 13-11. The hosts didn't have any problems to keep 8-point lead in third stanza. Crucial period of the game was middle of the last quarter. Lavezzini created 7-0 run coming on 56-54. Both teams missed couple of shots at the very end and the final score was the one from 1:26 to go, 60-55.

Gospic: Marija Vrsaljko 15+8 boards, Jelena Ivezic 10,
Lavezzini: Jennifer Screen 17+5 boards, Daliborka Vilipic 16+6 boards

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  KAZAKHSTAN - Women  


Kazakhstan NT comes back from another trip - by Eurobasket News
Kazakhstan NT comes back from another trip where they played three mores games in Baltic league. One victory and two losses saw the latest games over the Ukrainian squads.
On December 5th TIM-SCUF overcame Kazakhstan NT 92:70. After 21-21 in the opening quarter Ukrainian side won the rest three quarters and dominated in the court. Dorogobuzova led the winners with 29 points for 4-2 record. Yana Shkarpeta (176-F-87) nailed 20 and Ol'ha Maznichenko (186-F-91) had 17 points. Natalia Kuzmicheva (194-F) produced 16 in defeat and Korotkaya scored 15.
Kazakhstan NT beat Olimp/NAEK 64:60. The guests opened the game with 15-11 and then had 4 points at the halftime. Olimp/NAEK reduced to only 1 entering the last stanza, but did not stay tough at the end. Baidussenova top-scored for the winners with 19 points, while Natalia Kuzmicheva added 15. Buryak led the hosts with 17 points.
Kozachka-Zalk stun Kazakhstan NT 112:71 to jump on 5-1 record. With 29-14 the hosts started the game and then extended the lead after 27-11 in the second frame. Iryna Biryuk (178-G-78, agency: Promotex) paced all the winners with 26 points, whilst Charity Egenti (191-C-85, college: Stephen F. Austin) scored 24. Natalia Kuzmicheva finished the night with 18 points in defeat and Ivanova had 14.

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  LATVIA - Women  


RTU Merks strengthen their position - by Eurobasket News
RTU Merks secured the sixth win in the season and cleared off from the opponents in the fourth spot in the LSBL ladder. They defeated SK Riga 68:55 on the road to improve at 6-7 record. The visitors used a 20:8 rally in the starting period to build an insurmountable lead. SK Riga came back to life in the second term but the deficit was too deep to deny. RTU Merks entered the final period ahead by 9 points and sealed the winning outcome in the final minutes. Anete Klintsone (175-G-90) scored 20 points to lead the way for the visitors. Dace Krumina (187-F-69) delivered 14 points in the victory. Kristine Vitola (197-C-91) and Ilze Gotfrida (182-F/C-91) had 14 points each for SK Riga.
TTT Juniors eased past Liepaja 74:65 for the ninth win in the season. TTT Juniors dominated at every change and posted a well-deserved win at the end. Anete Steinberga (186-C-90) tallied 19 points and 18 boards for the winners. Ieva Jansone (180-F-90) had 16 points as TTT Juniors consolidated their position in the LSBL table. Sabine Niedola (182-F-91) answered with 20 points, 6 boards and 4 assists for Liepaja in defeat.
Turiba knocked down DU 87:47 on the road. Ieva Veinberga (180-F-84) notched 30 points, 9 boards and 7 assists to lead the charge. Ieva Vitola (189-F/C-85) had 19 points and 9 rebounds for the winning team. Kristina Egle replied with 18 points in the loss.

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  LITHUANIA - Women  


Arvi take the lead in LMKL - by Eurobasket News
Arvi climbed on top of the LMKL ladder after they handled Lemminkainen at the start of Round 9. The victory marked an 8-1 record for Arvi, while Lemminkainen slipped at 4-5.
Lemminkainen got to a brave start at the Marijampole ZSM Basketball Hall. They outgunned the hosts 22:17 for an unexpected lead after ten minutes of action. But the hosts soon got back on track as Laima Rickeviciute (188-F-88) and Tetyana Shchypakina (180-F-85, agency: LBM Management) lifted Arvi to a 40:33 advantage at halftime. Arvi finally adjusted after the long break as they mounted the pressure. Lemminkainen failed to stop aggressive offensive effort from the home team as Arvi cleared off to a 26-point distance. The hosts cruised to the victory in the final stanza and grabbed the lead in the championship. Tetyana Shchypakina and Laima Rickeviciute scored 15 points apiece for the winners. Vaida Pacauskiene (176-G-79) added 13 points for Arvi. Millieskiene answered with 15 points for Lemminkainen.
Laisve occupied the third place in the standings as they thumped Ruta 69:44 on the road. Laisve led comfortably at every change and posted the fifth win in the season. Jolanta Marmiene (181-F-79) nailed 18 points to pace the victors. Asta Daujadiene (176-G-73) and Mante Kvederaviciute (180-G-90) netted 10 points each for Laisve. Aiste Tamutyte (179-F-87) secured 18 points and 6 boards for Ruta as they fell at 3-6 record.

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  RUSSIA - Women  


Hemofarm cruises past Spartak Noginsk on the road - by Eurobasket News
Eurocup 1/16 Finals: Spartak Noginsk - Hemofarm 57-73

Hemofarm Vrsac made fantastic result in the first game of EuroCup 1/16 finals against Spartak Noginsk on the road. Serbian team earned 16-point lead before the second game in Vrsac. Point guard Biljana Stankovic (176-G-74) top-scored for the winning squad with 18 points. At the same time she had 6 rebounds and 6 assists. Center Dara Kovacevic (197-C-83) registered double-double, 13 points and 12 boards, while Dajana Butulija (175-G-86) helped adding 12 points and 7 boards. Danijela Rizvic (177-G-87) was the last one with double-digits in scoring for Hemofarm netting 10 pts. Spartak Noginsk got 13 points from Svetlana Romanova (178-G-81). Victoria Shagan (178-G-79) had 12, while Irina Tsekhmeyster (191-F-87) contributed with 10 points and 8 rebounds. Second game is scheduled for December 18.
Hemfoarm was better team at the beginning making 6-12 lead. However, Svetlana Romanova immediately answered creating 11-3 until the end of the first frame. Biljana Stankovic and Dara Kovacevic shined for Hemofarm during the next ten minutes helping it to make a turn. It was 33-36 at the half time. Crucial period of the game was beginning of third stanza. Hemfoarm managed to make 8-0 run grabbing 11-point lead, 33-44. Later, actually in the finish of third and few opening minutes of the last quarter Hemofarm made another run. This time it was even better 10-0 meaning that this game was already over for Spartak. Hemfoarm heads into the second one with almost unreachable lead.

Spartak Noginsk: Svetlana Romanova 13, Victoria Shagan 12, Irina Tsekhmeyster 10+8 boards
Hemofarm: Biljana Stankovic 18+6 boards+6 as, Dara Kovacevic 13+12 boards, Dajana Butulija 12+7 boards, Danijela Rizvic 10

Dynamo Moscow takes it easily in Sweden - by Eurobasket News
Eurocup 1/16 Finals: Solna Vikings - Dynamo Moscow 58-75

The team of the head coach Natalia Hejkova celebrated in Sweden with plus 17. Maybe it is early, but it could easily be said that Dynamo Moscow is already seen in EuroCup 1/8 finals. Second game will be played in Moscow on December 18. Anete Jekabsone-Zogota (177-G-83) shined for the winners collecting 15 points and 5 assists. Jannell Burse (197-C-79, college: Tulane) netted 13 points and grabbed 7 boards, while Belinda Snell (181-F-81) added 10 points, 6 rebounds and 6 assists. Marina Kuzina (195-C-85) had one point more. Solna got 16 points and 4 rebs from Elisabeth Egnell (185-F-87, college: Boston Coll.). Ida Andersson (191-C-83) contributed with 10 points and 8 boards.
Dynamo Moscow dominated from the early beginning. After first ten minutes it already was plus 12, 13-25. Solna demonstrated slightly better performance in the second frame. It was 23-31 at the middle of it. However, Anete Jekabsone-Zogota and her teammates put into the fifth gear until the half time setting the score on 30-45. Dynamo slowed down after that keeping 15-point lead without any extra efforts. Last ten minutes were just the formality. It is hard to believe that Solna will be able to do anything in Moscow.

Solna Vikings: Elisabeth Egnell 16+4 boards, Ida Andersson 10+8 boards
Dynamo Moscow: Anete Jekabsone-Zogota 15+5 as, Jannell Burse 13+7 boards, Marina Kuzina 11, Belinda Snell 10+6 boards+6 as

MiZo Pecs stops Nadezhda's run - by Eurobasket News
MiZo Pecs 2010 - Nadezhda 88:70

MiZo Pecs stops Nadezhda's run and ruin their hopes of a play-off spot while keeping alive their own chance of a third-place finish. MiZo Pecs 2010 overcame Nadezhda 88:70 to finish Euroleague Round 9. Anna Vajda (191-F/C-84) led the winners with 26 points and 10 rebounds. Kelly Mazzante (183-G-82, college: Penn St.) nailed 21, while Graziane Coelho (192-C-83) scored 12. Betty Lennox (173-G-76, college: Louisiana Tech) resisted for the visitors with 23 points.
The home side posted first six points in the game as Graziane Coelho scored for 6:0. MiZo Pecs 2010 looked better in the opening quarter and won it 23:17. Anna Vajda brought 31:17 as Hungarian side produced 8-0 from the start of the second frame. By half-time, they had a stranglehold on the game with a 54:35 lead when Ivanyi was perfect from the free throw line.
The game became even in the second half, but the hosts did not allow the opponents to come closer. Anna Vajda made it 67:47, whilst Veremeenko closed the third period at 70:51. Queenan was the last to score in the game for 88:70.
In another games og the group Wisla earned the sixth victory in the Euroleague season as they knocked down Besiktas in Istanbul. Candice Dupree scored 18 points and grabbed 18 boards to pace the Polish team. Dominique Canty added 18 points for the winners. Laura Harper answered with 19 points and 16 boards as Besiktas stayed at the bottom of Group A.
Bourges cruised past Halcon Avenida to get back on top of Group A. Alessandra Santos tallied 21 points and 15 boards to lead the way for the French team. Catherine Melain added 14 points for the winners. Anke De Mondt replied with 13 points for Halcon as they suffered the third defeat in the Euroleague season.

MiZo Pecs 2010: Anna Vajda 26+10 rebs, Kelly Mazzante 21, Graziane Coelho 12
Nadezhda: Betty Lennox 23

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  SERBIA - Women  


Hemofarm cruises past Spartak Noginsk on the road - by Eurobasket News
Eurocup 1/16 Finals: Spartak Noginsk - Hemofarm 57-73

Hemofarm Vrsac made fantastic result in the first game of EuroCup 1/16 finals against Spartak Noginsk on the road. Serbian team earned 16-point lead before the second game in Vrsac. Point guard Biljana Stankovic (176-G-74) top-scored for the winning squad with 18 points. At the same time she had 6 rebounds and 6 assists. Center Dara Kovacevic (197-C-83) registered double-double, 13 points and 12 boards, while Dajana Butulija (175-G-86) helped adding 12 points and 7 boards. Danijela Rizvic (177-G-87) was the last one with double-digits in scoring for Hemofarm netting 10 pts. Spartak Noginsk got 13 points from Svetlana Romanova (178-G-81). Victoria Shagan (178-G-79) had 12, while Irina Tsekhmeyster (191-F-87) contributed with 10 points and 8 rebounds. Second game is scheduled for December 18.
Hemfoarm was better team at the beginning making 6-12 lead. However, Svetlana Romanova immediately answered creating 11-3 until the end of the first frame. Biljana Stankovic and Dara Kovacevic shined for Hemofarm during the next ten minutes helping it to make a turn. It was 33-36 at the half time. Crucial period of the game was beginning of third stanza. Hemfoarm managed to make 8-0 run grabbing 11-point lead, 33-44. Later, actually in the finish of third and few opening minutes of the last quarter Hemofarm made another run. This time it was even better 10-0 meaning that this game was already over for Spartak. Hemfoarm heads into the second one with almost unreachable lead.

Spartak Noginsk: Svetlana Romanova 13, Victoria Shagan 12, Irina Tsekhmeyster 10+8 boards
Hemofarm: Biljana Stankovic 18+6 boards+6 as, Dara Kovacevic 13+12 boards, Dajana Butulija 12+7 boards, Danijela Rizvic 10

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  SPAIN - Women  


Botas grabs 2-point win against San Jose - by Eurobasket News
Eurocup 1/16 Finals: Botas - San Jose 67-65

Turkish Botas was better than Spanish San Jose in the first game of EuroCup 1/16 finals thanks to Marcedes Walker (191-C-86, agency: Merit Sports, college: Pittsburgh). She spent 35 minutes in the floor delivering 18 points and pulling down 16 rebounds. Angela Tisdale (170-G-85, college: Baylor) had 11, while Ayse Ivegin (172-G-87) netted one point less for the hosts. Eshaya Murphy (180-G-85, college: USC) of San Jose was central figure in her team collecting 27 points and 8 rebounds. Kimberly Butler (186-F-82, college: Oregon St.) also shined scoring 20 points and grabbing 8 rebounds. Second game will be played in Leon on December 17.
Both teams changed lead few times in the first quarter. Botas opened the next one much better, later making mini 5-0 run. After jumper by Marcedes Walker, it was 27-21 for Botas. Until the end of the first half the hosts touched plus 9, but Eshaya Murphy then stepped up for her team cutting the margin on 5 points, 32-27. San Jose managed to tie the score on 35-35 after the breather. Botas immediately responded with 13-6 run for 48-41 after 30 minutes. San Jose was pretty good at the very end, but never succeeded to tie the score. With just 1 second to go Angela Tisdale of Botas made one free throw for the final 67-65.

Botas: Marcedes Walker 18+16 boards, Angela Tisdale 11, Ayse Ivegin 10
San Jose: Eshaya Murphy 27+8 boards, Kimberly Butler 20+8 boards

AEL outsmarts powerful Rivas Ecopolis - by Eurobasket News
Eurocup 1/16 Finals: AEL - Rivas Ecopolis 62-58

4-point home win for AEL in the first game of the EuroCup 1/16 finals. Cypriot representative was pretty good against the powerful Rivas Ecopilis, but it is hard to believe they will survive in Spain next week. Milena Vukicevic (188-F/C-80) led the hosts scoring 17 points. Natasha Lacy (178-G-85, college: UTEP) and Vukicevic's country mate Biljana Pesovic (180-G-83) added 11 pts each. Lacy had 7 more rebounds beside that. Laura Camps (180-F-76) and Miljana Musovic (180-G-87) netted 12 points apiece for Rivas Ecopolis. Petra Ujhelyi (192-C-80, college: S.Carolina) had double-double, 11 points and 11 boards.
Rivas Ecopolis had pretty decent beginning. After opening 2-0, visitors made 10-1 run. However, Milena Vukicevic and her teammates immediately answered creating impressive 15-3 run. It was 18-13 after 10 minutes. Milena Vukicevic made 2 FTs in 14th minute for plus 12, 32-20. Until the half time visitors managed to close the gap on 8, 34-26. Rivas Ecopolis was unable to come any closer than 4 points in third stanza, which ended 51-42. Anyway with less then a minute to go in the game Rivas made 5-0. Milena Vukicevic once again stepped up for her team with a lay-up for the final score 62-58.

AEL: Milena Vukicevic 17, Natasha Lacy 11+7 boards, Biljana Pesovic 11
Rivas Ecopolis: Laura Camps 12, Miljana Musovic 12, Petra Ujhelyi 11+11 boards

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  SWEDEN - Women  


Dynamo Moscow takes it easily in Sweden - by Eurobasket News
Eurocup 1/16 Finals: Solna Vikings - Dynamo Moscow 58-75

The team of the head coach Natalia Hejkova celebrated in Sweden with plus 17. Maybe it is early, but it could easily be said that Dynamo Moscow is already seen in EuroCup 1/8 finals. Second game will be played in Moscow on December 18. Anete Jekabsone-Zogota (177-G-83) shined for the winners collecting 15 points and 5 assists. Jannell Burse (197-C-79, college: Tulane) netted 13 points and grabbed 7 boards, while Belinda Snell (181-F-81) added 10 points, 6 rebounds and 6 assists. Marina Kuzina (195-C-85) had one point more. Solna got 16 points and 4 rebs from Elisabeth Egnell (185-F-87, college: Boston Coll.). Ida Andersson (191-C-83) contributed with 10 points and 8 boards.
Dynamo Moscow dominated from the early beginning. After first ten minutes it already was plus 12, 13-25. Solna demonstrated slightly better performance in the second frame. It was 23-31 at the middle of it. However, Anete Jekabsone-Zogota and her teammates put into the fifth gear until the half time setting the score on 30-45. Dynamo slowed down after that keeping 15-point lead without any extra efforts. Last ten minutes were just the formality. It is hard to believe that Solna will be able to do anything in Moscow.

Solna Vikings: Elisabeth Egnell 16+4 boards, Ida Andersson 10+8 boards
Dynamo Moscow: Anete Jekabsone-Zogota 15+5 as, Jannell Burse 13+7 boards, Marina Kuzina 11, Belinda Snell 10+6 boards+6 as

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  TURKEY - Women  


Botas grabs 2-point win against San Jose - by Eurobasket News
Eurocup 1/16 Finals: Botas - San Jose 67-65

Turkish Botas was better than Spanish San Jose in the first game of EuroCup 1/16 finals thanks to Marcedes Walker (191-C-86, agency: Merit Sports, college: Pittsburgh). She spent 35 minutes in the floor delivering 18 points and pulling down 16 rebounds. Angela Tisdale (170-G-85, college: Baylor) had 11, while Ayse Ivegin (172-G-87) netted one point less for the hosts. Eshaya Murphy (180-G-85, college: USC) of San Jose was central figure in her team collecting 27 points and 8 rebounds. Kimberly Butler (186-F-82, college: Oregon St.) also shined scoring 20 points and grabbing 8 rebounds. Second game will be played in Leon on December 17.
Both teams changed lead few times in the first quarter. Botas opened the next one much better, later making mini 5-0 run. After jumper by Marcedes Walker, it was 27-21 for Botas. Until the end of the first half the hosts touched plus 9, but Eshaya Murphy then stepped up for her team cutting the margin on 5 points, 32-27. San Jose managed to tie the score on 35-35 after the breather. Botas immediately responded with 13-6 run for 48-41 after 30 minutes. San Jose was pretty good at the very end, but never succeeded to tie the score. With just 1 second to go Angela Tisdale of Botas made one free throw for the final 67-65.

Botas: Marcedes Walker 18+16 boards, Angela Tisdale 11, Ayse Ivegin 10
San Jose: Eshaya Murphy 27+8 boards, Kimberly Butler 20+8 boards

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  UKRAINE - Women  


Two wins in Baltic League. Dnipro stun Dynamo in UBL - by Eurobasket News
On December 5th TIM-SCUF overcame Kazakhstan NT 92:70 in Baltic league. After 21-21 in the opening quarter Ukrainian side won the rest three quarters and dominated in the court. Kateryna Dorogobuzova (187-F-90) led the winners with 29 points for 4-2 record. Shkarpeta nailed 20 and Maznichenko had 17 points. Natalia Kuzmicheva (194-F) produced 16 in defeat and Korotkaya scored 15.
Kazakhstan NT beat Olimp/NAEK 64:60. The guests opened the game with 15-11 and then had 4 points at the halftime. Olimp/NAEK reduced to only 1 entering the last stanza, but did not stay tough at the end. Baidussenova top-scored for the winners with 19 points, while Natalia Kuzmicheva added 15. Oksana Buryak (176-G-79) led the hosts with 17 points.
Kozachka-Zalk stun Kazakhstan NT 112:71 to jump on 5-1 record. With 29-14 the hosts started the game and then extended the lead after 27-11 in the second frame. Biryuk paced all the winners with 26 points, whilst Egenti scored 24. Natalia Kuzmicheva finished the night with 18 points in defeat and Ivanova had 14.
Meanwhile Dnipro became the only undefeated team in Ukrainian Basketball league, as they beat Dynamo 95:57. Dnipro produced the victory in all the quarters and truthfully reached the 6th win. Yuliya Yakhina (187-C-80) top-scored for the winners with 16 points, while Domarska added 13. Galitska top-scored for the guests with 20 points.