EUROBASKET NEWS REPORT - 2/10/2008

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Men News

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ARGENTINA

Liga A round 17 -by Facundo Iatzky
Regatas Corrientes beat Quilmes mar del plata thanks to the return of Alejandro Montecchia (180-G-72, agency: Interperformances) who had been injured for months. A good second half for Chuck Robinson (201-F-72, college: E.Carolina) (19 pts) and Agustin Carabajal (16 pts) were the keys of the victory. For Quilmes Maximiliano Maciel and Antonio Reynolds made 11 each. The bad news for Regatas is the injury of Ramzee Stanton who will be out for two months.
Boca Juniors won on the road against Sionista with another good game from superstars Leonardo Gutierrez (200-F-78) (24 pts) and Gabriel Fernandez (204-C-76) (19). Sionista has lost too many games the last few rounds and their best players were Mike Robinson and 'chino' Alejandro Zilli.
Gimnasia Comodoro overcame Central entrerriano easily and they escaped from the bottom of the standings. Central is very worried because they have lost their eighth game straight. Bruno Ingratta (201-F/C-85) shined with 20 pts and Diego Prego added 17. In Central Juanchi Cangelosi made 13.
Libertad Sunchales was losing by 12 points with Quimsa but they reacted and defeated them due to the great work of Mariano Ceruti (194-F-79) and Pablo Moldu (191-G-78) (16 pts each). Laron Profit made his debut. Julio Mazzaro scored 18 in Quimsa.
El Nacional MH is very strong in their house. This time they defeated Belgrano San Nicolas, a team which was playing really well in the last few rounds. Byron Wilson (192-F/G-71, college: Utah) and Michael Manciel were the highest scorers.
Obras Sanitarias keeps the second position after their victory over Independiente. Christopher Jeffries (199-F-80, college: Wash.-St.Louis) shined with 19 points and Gabriel Cocha (194-G-71) added 16 while Leonardo LaBella had one of the best games of his career in Independiente with 19 points.

The round will be completed with Ben Hur- Atenas (tuesday) and Penarol-Estudiantes (in March due to participation of Penarol in Liga de Las Americas)

Penarol mar del Plata wins Liga de las Americas -by Gianni Pascucci
Even if Soles de Mexicali defeated Penarol Mar del Plata 84-79 in the last game of the competition, the Argentinean team was crowned champion of the first edition of the Liga de las Americas thanks to the best points difference between the three teams tied with a 2-1 record on the tournment table. The Argentinean team showed all its experience during the last part of the game, when all its players were very careful in limit the points difference. Greg Lewis (198-F-78, college: Winthrop) was the last game top performer, leadin Soles with 22 points and 12 reboundes, De Juan Wheat (183-G-73, college: Louisville) added 20 pts and Richard Lopez (192-G-78, college: Cal.Baptist) 15 to keep alive the dream. Penarol Mar del Plata was led by a great Quincy Wadley (193-G-78, agency: CAA Sports, college: Temple), who ended the game with 28 points.

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BELGIUM

Charleroi Transfer News -by Peter Buyse


According to various press sources Charleori has signed American forward Matt Walsh (197-F/G-82, agency: Arik Krayn Services, college: Florida) for the rest of the season.
Till recently Walsh played in Spain for Manresa. In 18 games for Ricoh Manresa he is averaging 22mpg, 11.3ppg and 3.2 rpg.

Played 16 games for Larissa in Greece during the 2006-2007 season and had averages of 17.8ppg and 4.6rpg. Was voted to the Eurobasket Greece All Import team.

Before heading to Greece he was on the pre-season roster of the New Jersey Nets and played 7 games with averages of 4.4ppg and 3.8 rpg. Was waived before the start of the regular season.

Played 2 games for the Miami Heat in 2005-2006. Played in the NBA Summerleagues between 2005 and 2007 for the Miami Heat, Seattle Supersonics, Orlando Magic and Cleveland Cavaliers.

Had an good career at Florida where in his 3 years he averaged around 14pts and 4 rebs.



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BOSNIA

Cup of BiH: Siroki Prima Pivo and Borac Nektar in Final -by Elvir Halilovic
Siroki and Borac tomorow (Sunday) playing for seventh Cup title of BIH. Team for Banja Luka in Semifinal was better than Grude. In second todays game, Siroki Prima Pivo in 'Final before Final' beat Bosna ASA BH Telecom.
In last six year Siroki took Cup title four time. In other two time that was Bosna (2005.) and Igokea (2007.).

Results of Semifinal games:
Borac Nektar - Grude 87:76
Siroki Prima Pivo - Bosna ASA BHT 76:73

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BULGARIA

Second win for Balkan by the sea -by Valentin Anguelov
Balkan achieved a very important succes, after winning away from home against Cherno More, and continued the winning streak in A-1. After 100-96 versus Cherno More, the team from Botevgrad has 4 wins in a row and continues to be second after Lukoil Academic. Levski is right behind them with one win less, as the two teams are playing in the derby of the next round on Wednesday in Botevgrad.

The home side lead it 3-0 after a three from Todd Galloway (180-G-83, agency: Interperformances, college: Florida St.) and a minute later 5-4 after 2 free-throws from Augustinas Vitas. That were the only two moments when Cherno More lead the score. The guests were leading all the other time. After the first quarter it was 22-30 for Balkan, and at halftime 46-47.

In the second half Georgi Mladenov's team managed to get in front of Cherno More, but everytime the home side managed to return and cut the difference. After the third quarter finished 71-77, the guests from Botevgrad scored the first 7 points in the closing 10 minutes, and lead the game with 13 points (71-84). Three minutes before the end after two succesfull free throws by Ivan Lilov Balkan was ahed 78-90. In the next 2 minutes Cherno More cut their deficit to only 4 points (89-93), but from here until the end Pavle Bolkovac and Ivan Lilov scored 7 out of 8 free-throws, which lead to their final success.

The main factor for Balkan winning was their dominance in the paint. They had 43 rebounds against only 25 for Cherno More.

Dwayne Morton had his 7th double-double for the season - 21 points and 10 rebounds. He added 3 blocks and 2 assists. Lubomir Lilov scored 24 points, including 5 three-pointers and his brother Ivan finished with 23 points and 7 rebounds.

Todd Galloway scored a game-high of 28 points. Along with the other American Bryce Sheldon (24 points) they scored 5 three-pointers each. Atanas Penev was back on the roster, but he did not play.

by Alexander Sotirov - BulgarianBasket.com

Levski defeated Spartak in the last five minutes -by Lubomir Neshev
Levski managed to defeat the team of Spartak Pleven tonight in Sofia. In Triaditsa Hall the hosts won 89-73 and recorded first win after two straight losses.
Levski started better and took a 10-2 lead but shortly after that the visitors were right back in the game. However the margin was between 3-5 points as the first quarter ended 23-20.
Levski scored the first basket in the second but then followed strong minutes for Spartak whoo took the lead and had at time 9-point advantage that then was erased. In the last six seconds of the half Levski scored twice to make the score 39-43 at the break.
In the third quarter both teams were exchanging leads with none being able to take big margin. Good moments for Levski had Stefan Georgiev who was leading his younger teammates. Near the end of the quarter he had to sit on the bench after making his 4th foul as the scoreline was 58-60 after three.
The last quarter started nervously for both sides. With the score 60-63 Zlatin Georgiev made his 5th foul and then received a technical. Hrisimir Dimitrov scored to make it 60-67 with six minutes to go but then Levski answered with 16-0 run that gave them the advantage. Spartak cut to 78-72 but then Rob Preston (206-F/C-82, college: Akron) hit a 3-pointer and a foul and secured the win for Levski.
Despite not playing the entire fourth quarter Stefan Georgiev ended on top for the hosts with 17 points and 11 rebouns. Rob Preston added 16 points including three key 3-pointers in the last quarter and Nikolay Varbanov also had a decent game scoring 12 points in important moments.
For Spartak the captain Hrisimir Dimitrov finished with game high 19 points and Bozo Barac added 16 and 7 rebounds

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CHILE

Latinbasket.com All-Chilean DIMAYOR Awards 2007-08 -by Eurobasket
#s#
#e#6


Briones


Madison


Sockwell


Mason


Bishop
Player of the Year: Patricio Briones (213-C-72) of Liceo Particular Mixto de los Andes of Liceo Mixto
Guard of the Year: Francisco Zepeda (184-G-73) of Boston Coll.
Forward of the Year: Chris Sockwell (203-F/C-80) of Universidad de Concepcion of U.Concepcion
Center of the Year: Patricio Briones of Liceo Mixto
Domestic Player of the Year: Patricio Briones of Liceo Mixto
Import Player of the Year: Chris Sockwell of U.Concepcion
Coach of the Year: Pablo Ares of Liceo Mixto

1st Team
Patricio Briones of Liceo Mixto
Kei Madison (206-F/G-79) of Liceo Particular Mixto de los Andes of Liceo Mixto
Chris Sockwell of U.Concepcion
Brandon Mason (194-G/F-81) of Atenas Cordoba (ARG) of Dep.Valdivia
Tony Bishop (201-F-73) of Boston College Santiago of Boston Coll.

2nd Team
Terrence Hill (196-G-82, college: Kennesaw St.) of Liceo Mixto
Alain Laroche (198-F-83, agency: Court Side, college: N.Florida) of U.Concepcion
Francisco Zepeda of Boston Coll.
Jefferson Agba (210-F/C-80, college: Embry Riddle) of Puente Alto
Aaron Eneas (202-F-78, agency: Promotex) of U.Catolica

Honorable Mention
Rodrigo Espinoza (183-G-81, agency: Players Group)
James Moore (203-C-82, agency: Duran International, college: N.Mexico St.) of Dep.Valdivia
Joe Webb (198-F-83, college: Bellevue) of UDE Temuco
Evandro Arteaga (178-G-83) of U.Concepcion
Maurice Spillers (199-F-74, college: Utah St.) of U.Catolica

All-Imports Team
Kei Madison of Liceo Mixto
Chris Sockwell of U.Concepcion
Brandon Mason of Dep.Valdivia
Tony Bishop of Boston Coll.
Terrence Hill of Liceo Mixto
Adriano Machado (207-C-83) of Boston Coll.
Eric Williams of Puente Alto

All-Domestic Players Team
Patricio Briones of Liceo Mixto
Francisco Zepeda of Boston
Evandro Arteaga of U.Concepcion
Jose Luis Campos (189-G-80) of U.Concepcion
Francisco Bravo (174-G-87) of Dep.Valdivia

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CROATIA

Market News: Cibona rebuff Warren bids -by Davor Kosic
Cibona Zagreb has rejected a two offers for its American forward Chris Warren (196-F-81, agency: Higher Vision Sports, college: S.Carolina).
According to the Manager of Cibona,the were rejected offers from Spanish giants TAU Baskonia and Israeli champions - Maccabi Tel-Aviv.according to the Manager,both teams offered a buyout offer for Warren but were both rejected immediately as they see Warren as their most important player.
else in Cibona,Tre Kelley (183-G-85, college: S.Carolina) who was tipped to leave the club ,is staying after all.
Club director Boze Milicevic, coach Ivan Sunara and sports director Mihovil Nakic talked about the playmaker's saga. 'We talked with the ‘kid'. He is a victim. He's young and first time alone in the world so these complications are result of his inexperience and bad guidance from his agent. He came to Europe as a very young player and depends solely on the agent', Milicevic said.
J.R. Bremer (191-G-80, agency: Higher Vision Sports, college: St.Bonaventure) who was tipped to replace Kelly won't sign for the club.
Former Croatian NT player Marijan Mance (200cm, 29 years) is a new member of the Slovenian first division team Helios from Domzale, which is also playing in the NLB League. He moved to the Slovenian team from his home town Rijeka in which he played for Kvarner Novi resort (15.7pts, 5.8rb, 2.1as) this season. Helios will be his second Slovenian team after Union Olimpija.

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FINLAND

KORISLIIGA: Korihait will test Randell Jackson -by Rauno Hurmalainen
Korihait (Uusikaupunki) has decided to test American C Randell Jackson (211-F/C-76, agency: HM Sports Agency, college: Florida St.) for the rest of the season. Randell has played in the NBA, in minor American leagues and in several European countries (last stint in Hungary).

Kyle Carhart Interview -by Jari Vikman

Eurobasket's northern office had chance to interview Kyle Carhart (191-G/F-83, college: Grand Valley St.), well known as a tremendous defensive player and especially a sharpshooter. . First year as a pro Kyle found his way to Lapua. EB found out who is the man behind those double figures and footwork from outer space. Kyle shared his thoughts abouts remaining season and playing in Finland.


Your team (Korikobrat) has done well this season. Obviously you've done something right. What do you think are the main reasons for good ranking?

- The main reason for our good ranking thus far has to be how hard our guys play everyday. When we are playing our entire team is playing well defensivly getting stops and getting easy baskets. We also have a good core of talented players Boo, T, Jussi, Ville, Henry, and La.

Seems to me your team spirit is great. Am I right?

- We do have good team spirit. All of us get along really well and really focus on playing as hard and as well as we can everytime we play together.

Your team do score a lot, but which is more important to you: score more than other team or let other team score less? Working D or accurate hand behind the arc?

- I believe that the key to winning is good defense. It is always nice to make shots but good defense will help get more wins.

Toughest team in men's 1st division to play against and why?

- So far the toughest team has been FOKOPO. They are in first place for a reason. They have a very good team and they play well together

Looks like Korikobrat is going to play for promotion to Korisliiga. Have you already started concentrating on it or is it just far away -reward after season?

-The promotion is a long way away. There are a lot of games left and anything can happen. We know that if we play hard every game we have a chance to win. That is all we are focused on right now. Making it to the playoffs or to the Korisliiga would be a great reward for the end of the season.


Prediction for the rest of the season?

- We will try our best to win every game we play.

Former Finnish national team coach Ari Tammivaara has been coaching Korikobrat regularly. How is he like?


- Ari is a very good coach who comes in a couple times a week and helps with our team. He works well with our other coaches and players. Ari really does a good job of helping our team with defense and spends a lot of time on it in practice.

How would you compare finnish and american practicing? Of course it depends a lot who is coaching but are there some big differences between these two?

- Like you said a lot of it depends on the coach. In America we had longer practices that were a lot more defense oriented. Here in Finland sometimes we dont have a lot of time or as many guys at practice as in America so we have to spend more time working on shooting and other individual skills.

You play 26 games + some cup&practice matches this season. Total about 30 matches sounds like a good amount to me. Your opinion?

- Yes it is a fair amount. However I would love to play at least once more over the course of a week.

Did you have any expectations for this season? Did you know anything(teams, players, refs?) about finnish basketball or Lapua?


- I really did not know anything about Finland basketball. I certainly did not know where Lapua was so i had to do a little research on the internet before i came.

Eurobasket readers surely want to know how you end up here in first place?

- I played at a pro exposure camp in Boston where coach Greg Gibson saw me play. (Karhu) He was nice enough to get me in touch with Markku and basically set me up with Lapua. Coach Gibson is responsible for getting me the oppurtunity to in Finland (Lapua) and I can not thank him enough.

You played your college ball in Grand Valley state university. How was Grand Valley?

- Grand Valley was great they have an outstanding coaching staff and I got to play with a very good group of players

More and more young Finns go to USA to develop as a basketball player. What do you think is the reason for that?

- America does a very good job of helping and developing young players. If the players are able to get in a good situation they can really benefit from that.

Many of them come back with improved physics. Do college coaches pay much attention to that?

- American coaches really stress the importance of the weight room. This is a lot more emphasis put on getting as strong as possible.

After college, was it shock to come here? At least Grand Rapids is way bigger than Lapua. Any juicy stories to tell?

- It really was not that big of a shock to come here weather wise. We have very similar weather in Michigan it just stays lighter out a little longer. It was different to come to a place that was so much smaller. I am not used to being able to walk from one end of town to the other easily.

Season ends in couple of months. Will we see Kyle Carhart hitting those threes and frustrating enemy offense in Finland next year?

- If I was given the oppurtunity to play in Finland again I would love to.



KORISLIIGA: Korihait upset Torpan Pojat -by Rauno Hurmalainen

Korisliiga, Round 32: Korihait (Uusikaupunki) upset Torpan Pojat (Helsinki) 79-72, YMCA Lahti lost by two (68-70) vs Pyrinto (Tampere) at home,
Honka (Espoo) crushed Kauhajoki 104-72, Kouvot (Kouvola) defeated Kataja (Joensuu) 91-84 and Tarmo (Porvoo) won over Team Componenta
(Karkkila) 103-93. Ten (10) rounds out of the reagular season left.

Korihait - Torpan Pojat 79-72 (40-36) (Jussi Kumpulainen (204-F-76) 22/14, Kyle Shiloh 20 - Josh Gonner 24, Timo Heinonen 13).

YMCA Lahti - Pyrinto 68-70 (47-30) (Ilkka Vuori 15, Ville Makalainen 13/10 - Damon Williams (199-F-73, agency: Higher Vision Sports, college: Colorado St.-Pueblo) 26/10, James Wright 20).

Honka - Kauhajoki 104-72 (57-31) (Petteri Koponen (193-G-88) 21, Jukka Matinen 20 - Darryll Hudson 19, Cedric McGowan 15).

Kouvot - Kataja 91-84 (44-48) (Tuomas Iisalo (195-G-82) 31, Corey Smith 18 - Andre Foreman 25, Ville Vesala 18).

Tarmo - Team Componenta 103-93 (51-37) (Esa Maki-Tulokas (200-F-82, college: LIU Brooklyn) 32, Tony Bennett 22 - Chris Hester 24, Nick Wallery 23).




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FRANCE

ProA : Kimani Ffriend signs for Paris-Levallois -by Aurelien Hipp
*To reinforce the paint, Paris-Levallois just signed Jamaican player Kimani Ffriend (211-C-77, college: Nebraska), coming from Bamberg. He has been released by the german team after the team couldn't qualify for the Euroleague Top 16. The player was in the Clippers' roster for the NBA preseason.

ProA : Sean Colson out for the rest of the season -by Aurelien Hipp
The end of the semi-final game at Toulon for the Semaine des As was a nightmare for the local team. Sean Colson (182-G-75, college: Charlotte) is injured til the end of the season (Achille's tendon). It's a terrible news for Hyeres-Toulon and coach Alain Weisz before the second cycle of the ProA.

Semaine des As '08 : Vichy goes to the final !!! -by Aurelien Hipp

Semaine des As '08, Semi-final #1
Vichy - Hyeres/Toulon 72-71

(12-25,23-15,16-18,21-13)



A better start for Hyeres-Toulon in this first semi-final, leading 25-12 after 10 minutes (and 25-7 after 7!). Vichy just wasn't there in defense in this first quarter, even if the refs called them 7 fouls vs...1 for Hyeres-Toulon.Colson (7pts) and Perincic (7pts) were local best players, while Jimmall Ball (no point) is too shy in this game so far to let Vichy hope something.

Vichy 12 Toulon 25

The second quarter starts better for Vichy, with positive actions brought by Karangwa and Wright (11-0 run and 8pts on this run for Wright). Vichy is just better in the game and plays faster, while Hyeres is having some offensive difficulties. Colson had to sit on the bench for 6 minutes, replaced by Legname. After the first half, the game is completely unsettled again.

Vichy 35 Toulon 40

the game stays close in this third quarter. Vichy's defense is getting better and stays 2 points away from Hyeres-Toulon. At the end of the period, Hyeres could find some fastbreaks baskets to take a 7pt lead (51-58). Austin Nichols, with 18pts so far, is in the same shape as thursday.

Vichy 51 Toulon 58


A very exciting last quarter, since Vichy managed to take the lead (68-64) with 3 minutes to go. With a and1 tip-in and a lucky trey, Perincic brought his team by in business, leading 70-68 with 38sec to go. That was just before Jimmal Ball, shooting 2/13 so far, scored the decisive trey from 9meters far to send Vichy in the final. Quite invisible during the whole game, Ball is Vichy's hero once again.

vichy 72 Toulon 71

Semaine des As '08 : Cholet will face Vichy for the final -by Aurelien Hipp
Semaine des As '08, Semi-final #1
Cholet - ASVEL 75-63

(20-16,21-17,18-13,16-17)


Cholet has taken a logical lead in this game, thanks to Nando De Colo (6pts to start the game) and Tchicamboud. Both players had a lot of success from downtown, before Cholet could find and use Claude Marquis a little bit more in the paint. Villeurbanne, as expected, is trying to use the inside game and does it well, shooting 15 from 21 in the paint in the first half. However, the team didn't managed to score a single three-pointer in the whole first half. A key that can explain the fact that the remaining favorite is led by 8 after 20 minutes.
In the second half, the gap stays globally the same, even if Villeurbanne sticked to 6 with 8 minutes to go. Lamayn Wilson scored the first 3pointer of his team in the last period, but it wasn't enough. Cholet killed the game after a behind the back pass from De Colo to Wiggins for an And1 basket. Cholet will face Vichy tomorrow for a unexpected final!

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GEORGIA

National Team of Georgia -by Levan Mikeladze
#s#
#e#6


Boisa


Boisa


Pachulia


Ellis


Markoishvili

4 Giorgi Gamqrelidze (183-G-86) of Energy Invest (GEO)
5 Vladimir Boisa (209-F/C-81) of Aris Thessaloniki (GRE)
6 Anatoli Boisa (195-G/F-83) of Energy Invest (GEO)
7 Zaza Pachulia (212-C-84) of Atlanta Hawks (USA)
8 Giorgi Tsintsadze (192-G-86) of Tartu Rock (EST)
9 Giorgi Shermadini (216-C-89) of Maccabi Tbilisi
10 Tyrone Ellis (193-G-77) of Cajasol (ESP)
11 Manuchar Markoishvili (196-G-86) of B.C. Kyiv (UKR)
12 Mikheil Berishvili (205-F-87) of Vita Tbilisi

13 Vakhtang Natsvlishvili (204-F-76) of JDA Dijon Bourgogne (FRA)
14 Viktor Sanikidze (203-F-86) of Adecco Estudiantes Madrid (ESP)
15 Nikoloz Tskitishvili (212-C/F-83) of Seviglia Wear Teramo (ITA)

Head Coach: Davit Ustiashvili (Energy Invest)



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GERMANY

Herten: Bond and Ulin fired after positive cocaine test -by Moritz Korff
As the club published on its website today Kasey Ulin (185-G-82, agency: Global Sports Plaza, college: Dickinson St.) and Chris Bond (198-F-81, college: Cent.Washington) of 2. Bundesliga-team Hertener Loewen have been tested positive for cocaine. The club-officials fired both players immediately. The samples have been taken after the game versus Crailsheim two weeks ago.

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GREECE

New coaching team in Peristeri -by Chris Mammides
After losing Head Coach Manos Manouselis to Olympiakos (he is the assistant coach of Panagiotis Giannakis in the Piraeus team) Persiteri Athens also lost his assistant coach Dimitris Podaras as he left the Peristeri team too. At the same time the management team decided to promote two people already in the organization (coaching younger ages in Peristeri) Dimitris Tziallas and Vangelis Glikos. Tziallas will be the Head Coach and Glikos his Assistant Coach

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HOLLAND

Matrixx Magixx Win Again Over Eiffel Towers -by Sanders Jackson

In the Maaspoort on Thursday night, a good start and balanced scoring for Matrixx Magixx helped set the tone for the rest of the game, keeping the pressure on the defending champions and winning by the score of 97-88. Six Matrixx players scored in double figures, led by Alhaji Mohammed (192-G-81, agency: Beo Basket, college: Louisville) with 27 pts. Mohammed and Tyler Smith (203-F-80, agency: Players Group, college: Penn St.) both made a living at the free throw line, combining for 22 of 25 total free throws, while Eiffel combined for only 7 for 16 in total. Darrell Tucker (206-F-80, agency: Hart Sports Mngm, college: USF) led Eiffel with 21 pts. Matrixx improves to 16-10, while Eiffel falls to 14-8 and their fifth loss in six games.

Hanzevast Capitals Snaps Landstede Basketball's Winning Streak -by Sanders Jackson

In the ZBC-hal on Thursday night, a shorthanded and fatigued Hanzevast Capitals showed their true grit and resiliance on the road in Zwolle, with a strong 3rd quarter effort with their pressure defense making a difference, winning over previously hot Landstede Basketball by the score of 73-63. The guests had difficulties vs. Landstede in the beginning, giving up easy looks to Landstede when Landstede attacked the lane area, with Landstede having good ball movement and knocking down the shots and with putbacks. Hanzevast managed to counter with strong inside play from Guido Gruenheid (206-F/C-82, agency: LimeLight) and Kevin Melson (199-F-78, college: Wright St.) flashing well to open spots in Landstede's zone defense and attacking baseline. When Grunheid and Melson started to click, the Hanzevast team started to take off. Landstede were never the same when leading scorer Darnell Wilson (198-F-85, college: Canisius) picked up his 3rd foul in the 1st half. In the 3rd quarter, Landstede made too many unnecessary fouls early which eventually backfired, with Hanzevast not missing the free throws (23 of 31 total). With the 4th quarter being anticlimatic, Hanzevast's lead never dwindled less than six pts. Grunheid led all scorers with 22 pts., with Melson adding 18. Robby Bostain (191-G/F-84, agency: Sports Plus International, college: Furman) led Landstede with 17 pts. Hanzevast are now 14-10.

Big 4th Quarter Difference For Aris Friesland In Road Win Over Den Helder Seals -by Sanders Jackson

In Den Helder on Thursday night, the matchup between Aris Friesland and Den Helder Seals went neck-and-neck throughout the first three quarters, but the guests outburst in the last quarter made the difference, with FEB leading scorer Roy Booker (191-G-83, college: SE Missouri St.) and excellent three-point shooting being difference makers, leading Aris Friesland to an 106-90 win. Booker was unstoppable, scoring a season and league-high 40 pts., including 7 of 9 from the three-point line, with also 8 assists. His backcourt mate Jesse Kimbrough (183-G-82, college: Jacksonville) added 22 pts. and 11 assists. Aris Friesland shot 13 of 25 from the three-point line, had five players in double figures, and had 30 assists on 39 baskets. Den Helder shot 72.5% FG, but turned the ball over 25 times. Aris are now 5-20, while Den Helder falls to 3-20.

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HUNGARY

FALCO KC: new foreigner signed -by Tamas Deri
This week the management of Falco KC was working hard to find a replacement player for injured serbian forward Andrija Ciric, who will not be able to play 8-10 weeks. The new forward will be Edwin Draughan (196-G/F-82, college: Yale), who played 16 games for MAFC this season and averaged 16.9 points, 5.3 rebounds, 1.9 steals and 1.8 assists per game. The american forward will arrive tomorrow to Szombathely and be able to play his first game with his new team on wednesday as both teams made the necesarry paperwork today!

Round 18 -by Tamas Deri

UNIVER-KECSKEMET - SZOLNOKI OLAJ KK 89-85
(26-23, 17-19, 23-21, 23-22)
Kecskemet, Att.: 2000, Referees: Foldhazi, Papp P., Kothay
KECSKEMET: Sigurdarson 8/6, Larry Blair (183-G-84, college: Liberty) 31/12, Akos Horvath (194-G/F-81, agency: FCM) 19/3, Jefferson 8, Fiegi 10, Zsolt Szabo (202-F-86, agency: Laszlo Vinko Services) 10/9, Toth P., Csorvasi 3, Halmai, Coach: Zsoldos Andras
SZOLNOK: Thomas Kelley (188-G-76, agency: Avi Zilberman, college: Michigan St.) 25/3, Vernard Hollins (192-G-80, agency: Warren Sports, college: Wright St.) 26/3, Molnar A. 9/3, Sabaliauskas 4, Gobi 15, Cseh 6/6, Toth V., Harazin, Coach: Por Peter
2pt's: 27/49 (55%) - 28/46 (61%)
3pt's: 7/20 (35%) - 5/17 (29%)
FT's: 14/17 (82%) - 14/24 (58%)
Most rebounds: Blair, Jefferson and Sigurdarson 7 - Gobi 9, Hollins 8
Most assists: Blair 9 - Kelley 6


ATOMERŐMŰ SE - POLAROID-LAMI-VED KÖRMEND 74-87
(17-7, 15-31, 22-27, 20-22)
Paks, Att.: 1000, Referees: Hartyani, Kiraly, Farkas G.
PAKS: Meszaros 1, Murry 9/6, Kiss Zs. 10/6, Horvath Z. 11, Robert Gulyas (213-C-74) 25, Toroman 13/9, Csaplar-Nagy E., Mate Medve (193-G-89) 4, Panta 1, Coach: Sabali Balazs
KÖRMEND: Fodor M. 8/3, McCants 3/3, Ferencz 6, Peter Vavra (203-F/C-80) 12, Stanley Ocitti (203-F/C-80, agency: R.H.Consultancy, college: Binghamton) 14/6, Jermaine Thomas (187-G-84, agency: 540 Sports, college: La Salle) 17/6, Gergely Fodor (193-G-77, agency: Globalsports/Globalevents) 12/3, Rudolf Trummer (196-F-78, agency: Laszlo Vinko Services) 11/9, Henderson 4, Toth G., Coach: Krivacevic Dragoljub
2pt's: 18/29 (62%) - 22/41 (54%)
3pt's: 7/28 (25%) - 10/25 (40%)
FT's: 17/24 (71%) - 13/22 (59%)
Most rebounds: Gulyas 12 - Ocitti, Vavra and Henderson 7
Most assists: Meszaros 5 - Fodor M. 4


KAPOSVARI KK - DOMBÓVARI KC 78-87
(18-19, 17-14, 17-27, 26-27)
Kaposvar, Att.: 1200, Referees: Forrai, Toth K., Marton L.
KAPOSVAR: Matija Ceskovic (192-G-81, agency: Court Side) 21/9, Szőke 5/3, Carl Edwards (196-F-81, college: Charleston) 11, Roland Hendlein (201-F-86, agency: Laszlo Vinko Services) 17/9, Orosz 4, Vojvoda 6, Kinsella 11/3, Csirke, Kiss K. 3/3, Coach: Horvath Imre
DOMBÓVAR: Mike English (194-F/G-82, college: Mo.-Kansas City) 21, Julien Mills (193-G-84, agency: Warren Sports, college: Ball St.) 25/9, Deak 5/3, Wiley 10/3, Marco Sanders (202-F-79, college: Point Park) 15, Simon N., Bodi 9/6, Molnar M. 2, Balogh L., Coach: Dzunic Branislav

2pt's: 20/34 (59%) - 24/42 (62%)
3pt's: 9/28 325%) - 7/17 (41%)
FT's: 11/15 (73%) - 14/22 (64%)
Most rebounds: Kinsella and Hendlein 7 - English 9, Mills 7
Most assists: Edwards 6, Ceskovic 5 - English 5


ALBACOMP - MAFC 101-75
(24-22, 28-17, 25-21, 24-15)
Szekesfehervar, Att.: 1800, Referees: Adam, Csősz, Gal
ALBACOMP: Simon B. 5, Mooser 2, Cory Bradford (191-G-78, agency: Edge Sports, college: Illinois) 21/9, Chad McClendon (199-F-73, college: Appalachian St.) 19, Velibor Radovic (202-F/G-72, agency: Beo Basket) 18/6, Gergely David (206-F-83) 14, Soos 7/3, Hanga 10/3, Szabo T. 5, Coach: Peresztegi Nagy Akos
MAFC: Jitim Young (188-G-81, college: Northwestern) 27/3, Zoltan Wehner (191-G/F-82) 7/3, R. Radovics 6, Vavra 8, Peter Kecskes (208-F/C-79, agency: Laszlo Vinko Services, college: Hawaii) 12/3, Fodor 11/3, Fulop 4, Coach: Dinnyes Attila
2pt's: 30/39 (77%) - 21/45 (47%)
3pt's: 7/24 (29%) - 4/15 (27%)
FT's: 20/30 (67%) - 21/29 (72%)
Most rebounds: Bradford 5, McClendon and David 4 - Vavra 11, Kecskes 7
Most assists: Simon 10 - Young 4


MARSO-VAGEP NYÍREGYHAZI KK-SOPRONI SÖRDÖGÖK 95-84
(21-24, 23-23, 27-22, 24-15)
Nyiregyhaza, Att.: 1200, Referees: Cziffra, Gorka, Franyo.
NYKK: Branko Savic (181-G-79) 17/9, Gary Buchanan (191-G-80, agency: Edge Sports, college: Villanova) 18/12, Mouton 11/9, Erno Sitku (208-C-72, agency: Laszlo Vinko Services) 18/6, Srdjan Helbich (205-F/C-76) 22, Siska 6/3, Trepak 3, Coach: Deri Csaba
Sopron: Bradley 15/6, Lakatos 8, Jeff Viggiano (198-F-84, college: Massachusetts) 20/3, Richard Lesko (204-F-81, college: Ill.-Chicago) 21/9, Frana 3, Pojbics 7/3, Boldizsar 7/3, Vesztergom, Kortelyesi 3/3., Coach: Meszlenyi Robert
2pt's: 20/39 (51%) - 25/40 (62%)
3pt's: 13/31 (42%) - 9/23 (39%)
FT's: 16/21 (76%) - 7/12 (58%)
Most rebounds: Buchanan 9, Helbich 8 - Viggiano 14
Most assists: Savic 5 - Lesko 6


ZALAKERAMIA ZTE KK - BODROGI BAU-VASARHELY 100-89
(29-19, 27-22, 17-21, 27-27)
Zalaegerszeg, Att.: 1000, Referees: dr. Valovics, dr. Szakall, Balogh Gy.
ZALAKERAMIA ZTE KK: Miskovic 8, Mark Walters (188-G-82, agency: Warren Sports, college: N.Mexico) 23/9, Tamas Kaman (200-F-79, agency: Laszlo Vinko Services) 19/9, Pitlovic 10/3, Rafael Keresztes (211-C/F-79) 10, Toth A. 10, Kovats V. 3/3, Simon 5, Gergely Baki (194-G/F-87, agency: Laszlo Vinko Services) 12/9, Coach: Nikola Lazic
BODROGI BAU-VASARHELY: Drahos 6, David Brooks (191-G-82, college: Niagara) 25, Kovats R. 10, Eric Freeman (205-C-79, college: Ky Wesleyan) 29/3, Gemes 15/9, Babut 2, Boszormenyi 2, Coach: Czuprak Laszlo
2pt's: 33/50 (66%) - 25/40 (62%)
3pt's: 10/23 (43%) - 4/15 (27%)
FT's: 4/10 (40%) - 27/32 (84%)
Most rebounds: Kaman 8 - Freeman 11
Most assists: Walters 7, MIskovic 6 - Drahos 3



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ISRAEL

Hapoel Jerusalem wins Israeli Cup -by Eurobasket News
Jerusalem - Maccabi Tel Aviv 93:89

Jerusalem triumphed in the Israeli Cup Final yesterday. The game brought together the most renowned teams in Israeli basketball as Jerusalem took on Maccabi Tel Aviv. It became the second straight cup title for Jerusalem. It never looked like the one though in the first three quarters of the encounter. Maccabi controlled the tempo and dominated every facet of the game. Maccabi used a couple of three-pointers from Vonteego Cummings (192-G-76, college: Pittsburgh) early in the game to grab a 25:14 lead after the opening frame. Jerusalem struggled defensively and soon Dror Hagag (178-G-78, agency: Avi Zilberman) registered his fourth foul to be sidelined as Maccabi kept on piling up the lead. Sharon Shason (206-F-79, agency: Arik Krayn Services) however sweetened the pill for Jerusalem late in the second period coming up with a trey to make it 39:50 at halftime. Maccabi never stopped after the intermission as they went red-hot from beyond the arc and quickly accumulated a 22-point advantage with 3 minutes remaining in the frame. Jerusalem switched to a full-court press to cut the deficit to 18 points after 30 minutes. It all started to work for Hapoel in the final stanza. Maccabi simply lost the touch and seemed suddenly too weary to fight. Jerusalem notched 14 points in a row to open the final term and then went for more. Another massive rally from Hapoel saw them claim a 5-point lead. Maccabi looked stunned and lost the touch. Nevertheless they had a chance to save the game as Will Bynum (180-G-83, agency: Priority Sports, college: Georgia Tech) netted 6 points late in regulation to put Maccabi back within a single point from Jerusalem. But it did not work out as Jamie Arnold (203-F-75, agency: Avi Zilberman, college: Wichita St.) was deadly from free throw line sealing a sizzling victory for Jerusalem.
Jamie Arnold finished with 29 points and 10 boards to lead Jerusalem. Timmy Bowers (188-G-82, college: Mississippi St.) added 19 points, while Sharon Shason contributed 15 points for the winners. Marcus Fizer (203-F-78, college: Iowa St.) and Vonteego Cummings answered with 16 points apiece for Maccabi. Omri Casspi (204-F/G-88, agency: Interperformances) had 13 points in a losing effort.

Jerusalem: Jamie Arnold 29+10 boards, Timmy Bowers 19, Sharon Shason 15
Maccabi: Marcus Fizer 16, Vonteego Cummings 16, Omri Casspi 13

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ITALY

New inductees for the Italian Hall of Fame -by Gianni Pascucci
Yesterday morning in Bologna, the FIP (Italian Basketball Federation), honoured some basketball greats adding their names to the Italian Basketball Hall of Fame. The new inductees are former male NT players Pierluigi Marzorati and Gianfranco Pieri, former female NT player Mabel Bocchi, NT coach Carlo Recalcati, former Italian league referee Aldo Albanesi, past FIP presidents Enrico Vinci and Claudio Coccia, former Virtus Bologna executive Gian Luigi Porelli, and Aldo Giordani, probably the best basketball reporter ever, founder of 'Superbasket' weekly magazine. This last awards and the one to Enrico Vinci have been given 'in memoriam'.

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KOREA

LG-KCC-SAMSUNG ALL WINNERS -by Rick Ross
LG SAKERS MAN HANDLE ORIONS 112-76 AS Blankson Odartey (201-F/G-82, agency: Naiditch Entertainment, college: UNLV) POURS
IN 40 POINTS ALONG WITH 13 REB, Warner Calvin (201-F/C-80, college: Jacksonville) NETS 21 AND 12
IN 2O MINUTES OF ACTION,

KCC TOPS NUMBER 1 DONGBU 79-69 AND SAMSUNG TOPS MOBIS 90-72
GAMES ON TAP PIT......!
SK KNIGHTS vs LG SAKERS
MOBIS vs DONGBU
KTF vs KT&G
BLACKSLAM vs SAMSUNG

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KOSOVO

KOSOVA FROM VUSHTRRI SIGNES TWO PLAYERS -by Alban Salihu
Basketball Club 'Kosova' from Vushtrri signed two new players Veselin Savic and Srecko Milic. It is their first registration and they have the status of local players. They have the right to play in the match of the XVII week between 'Kosova'- 'Peja' which will take palce on February 10, 2008 in Vushtrri.


source: fbk-ks.com

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LIGA AMERICAS

Miami ends with a win -by Gianni Pascucci
The Miami Tropics ended their participation to the Liga de las Americas defeating Pitagoras/Minas Tenis Clube 67-65 at the end of a close game. The two points difference in the score, however, wasn't enough to hope to win the competition in case of a defeat of Penarol. Another time more, Jermaine Watson (193-G-81, college: Boston Coll.) was the Tropics top scorer, ending the game at 15 points, while Marcus Barnes (188-G-81, college: Northeastern) scored 12 points and Terence Shellman (201-F-78) 10. Wanderson Trigueiro (203-F/C-81) and Soro Pinto (190-F-80) were the best in Minas, with 15 and 21 points, respectively, but the Brazilian team ends the competition in a disappointing way, with three defeats.

Penarol mar del Plata wins Liga de las Americas -by Gianni Pascucci
Even if Soles de Mexicali defeated Penarol Mar del Plata 84-79 in the last game of the competition, the Argentinean team was crowned champion of the first edition of the Liga de las Americas thanks to the best points difference between the three teams tied with a 2-1 record on the tournment table. The Argentinean team showed all its experience during the last part of the game, when all its players were very careful in limit the points difference. Greg Lewis (198-F-78, college: Winthrop) was the last game top performer, leadin Soles with 22 points and 12 reboundes, De Juan Wheat (183-G-73, college: Louisville) added 20 pts and Richard Lopez (192-G-78, college: Cal.Baptist) 15 to keep alive the dream. Penarol Mar del Plata was led by a great Quincy Wadley (193-G-78, agency: CAA Sports, college: Temple), who ended the game with 28 points.

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LITHUANIA

LKL Round 10 -by Lukas Zajancauskas

Nevezis vs Neptunas


The most exciting match was in Kedainiai, where Neptunas won against the hosts 79:67 (12:13, 20:18, 18:18, 17:30). After the first quater Neptunas was ahead 13:12. Then Neptunas Klaipdeda took the lead and increased the advantage to 9. But after this half Nevezis was ahead 32:31. It all started to work for Neptunas in the final period, Vaidotas Pridotkas (200-F-84) led his team to the victory 79:67.
Nevezis : Z.Stankus 17, V.Vasylius 11, G.Leonavicius 11.
Neptunas : Vaidotas Pridotkas 29, V.Peciukas 17, G.Shukhovtsov 11+12 reb.

Sakalai vs Techasas


Techasas Panevezys overcome Sakalai Vilnius 86:81 (19:22, 21:15, 24:24, 22:20). The hosts started the game with a 13:0 run, but Techasas reduced the deficit to 3. In the second quater Techasas absorbed the game control and won the first half 40:37. Sakalai reduced the deficit to 2 points, but that wasn't enough. Rolandas Matulis (199-C-73) had a chance to save the game, but his shot wasn't succesfull, Techasas won by 5. Chris Hill (178-G-83, agency: Naiditch Entertainment, college: Wisc.-Milwaukee) (178-G-83, agency: Naiditch Entertainment, college: Wisc.-Milwaukee) finished with 21 points, 10 assists and 8 erbounds.
Sakalai : A.Labuckas 25, L.Lekavicius 15, Rolandas Matulis 15.
Techasas : Chris Hill 17, D.Griskenas 14, P.Williams 13.

Arvi-Suduva vs Lietuvos Rytas


Lietuvos Rytas won easily against Arvi-Suduva and achieved their 12 victory. Rytas controlled the situation from the beginning till the end and won the game 102:70 (32:19, 28:17, 19:13, 23:21). After the first quater Suduva was already behind by 13. The top scorer of Lietuvos Rytas was Martynas Gecevicius (193-G-88) with 20 points.
Rytas : Martynas Gecevicius 20, A.Slezas 18, M.Petravicius 16.
Arvi - Suduva : M.Valukonis 19, A.Birgelis 12, G.Sirutavicius 10.

Aisciai-Atletas vs Siauliai


Aisciai-Atletas - Siauliai 84:89. Siauliai achieved their 7 victory. Atletas started the game better than the visitors, but then Kaunas began to struggle and Siauliai won the first half by 7. Siauliai saved this advantage till the end and won.
Aisciai-Atletas : G.Vileita 17, T.Barstys 14, G.Navickas 11.
Siauliai : Antonio Grant (196-F-77, college: S.Carolina) 27, D.Zavackas 16, A.Kieza 13+10 boards.



Gaidamavicius in Anwil -by Simas Baranauskas
Tomas Gaidamavicius, who started his season in CSU Asesoft from Romania will continue his career in Poland. The 25 year-old guard signed a contract with Anwil Wloclawek. The Lithuanian will replace Gerrod Henderson, who was recently fired.

Nagys changes sides again -by Simas Baranauskas
After parting away with Riga Barons/LMT Tomas Nagys (208-F-80, college: Clemson) signed a one month long deal with Akasvayu Girona. The contract might be extended after. Tomas Nagys started his season in Greece, then moved to play in Legea of Italy. But in the begining of January the Lithuanian changed clubs again moving to Riga Barons/LMT.

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NBA

Lakers over Orlando, Gasol and Kobe Shine -by Michael Moten
It is early in the Pau Gasol (7'0''-F/C-80) deal that sent the all-star caliber forward to Los Angeles, however the move is already viewed as a success. The Lakers beat the Orlando Magic 117 to 113 Friday evening, led by Kobe Bryant (6'6''-G-78) with 36 points and Pau Gasol adding 30 points, Bryant also had 10 rebounds and 6 assists.

Gasol has shown a quick understanding of the triangle offense and looks very comfortable early on. He and Kobe continued to connect with each other in pick and roll situations that broke down the Orlando defense for lay-ups or open shots. They look as if they have been playing together for years.

Orlando was down by 14 in the third quarter but fought back and took the lead with two minutes left in the fourth. However, the Lakers offensive execution down the stretch was excellent as they were quicker to the rebound than Orlando and got great looks at the basket. Defensively L.A. is big, with a variety of players that can defend several positions; Gasol adds another versatile dimension to the team philosophy.

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NORWAY

Fjellhamar edges 3B, change places? -by Kaare Vangen
Fjellhamar Stallions now have the chance to pass 3B and take the 5th spot on the ladder. 3B is 7-8 (Ulriken left) and Fjellhamar is 6-8 (Harstad and Gimle left). If Stallions win against Gimle and 3B lose to Ulriken the teams will change positions. Stallions have players coming back from injuries and look better now. Stallions have won both matches against 3B this season last time when they met on Wednesday.

3B - Fjellhamar Stallions 77-83 (19-21, 20-26, 27-21, 11-15)
Attendance: 154
3B: R. Timus 25
Fjellhamar: W. Sharma & A. Rey 17


Harstad beat Asker, still behind -by Kaare Vangen

The two top teams Asker Aliens and Harstad Vikings met on Friday to try to finish the fight for the top spot before the playoff. Asker lost the match 66-74 but will still have the advantage over Harstad if both teams end up with two losses. Asker beat Harstad by nine points in Harstad earlier in the season so it was pretty close one this time.

Harstad came out like a tornado and took immediate control over the game. Excellent shooting and almost no mistakes in the first part of the match kept them in front all the time. Asker came back strong in the third period but could never get close enough to take over the match. Very balanced scoring for Harstad with five players in double digits. And a Norwegian top scorer - Christer Fonnes (183-G-83) with 16 points.


Asker was led by Mustafa Mahnin (182-G-80) by 24. The two imports in Asker (VanKlompenburg and Olsson) combined for 8 - eight - points. That is bad in a very important match like this. Up to now they have averaged exactly 20 ppg combined. OK, Asker has very good Norwegian players but can not be happy with the situation. It is too late to get new players now but I guess coach Stoller would have wanted new material if he could.


Harstad will have to win both remaining matches (Fjellhamar away and Tromsř at home) to claim the top spot. Asker finishes the first part of the season on Feb 17 against Ulriken in Asker.



Collins suspended before final match -by Kaare Vangen

Local paper Fćdrelandsvennen report that Kristiansand Pirates' coach Anthony Collins has been suspended one match for allegations against the referees. He is claimed to have commented to media that it felt like playing 5-against-8 after a match. Due to this he can not lead the team in the do-or-die match against Ammerud on Feb 15. The winner of the match will make it to the playoff, the loser is out.

The Pirates organization is also reported to look for a new coach for the next season. Collins has led the team for three seasons.

Collins must be given credit for standing tall during the worst losing streak in the history of BLNO. Pirates lost 43 matches in a row under Collins before they finally beat Ammerud this season. 3B and Fjellhamar have also lost to the Pirates this season. Collins' coaching record with the Pirates is now 3-53.



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PUERTO RICO

Boricuas in the States -by Alessandro Fontana
BORICUAS IN THE STATES
In NBA Dallas won against Memphis 92-81, Jose Juan Barea was in the starting five, He played 25 minutes with 8 pts (1/4 2pts, 2/63pts) and 3 assist. Orlando was defeated by Los Angeles Lakers with a super Pau Gasol (30 pts) 117-113. 'Our Boricua' Carlos Arroyo could not play.
In D-League, Arsenal Anaheim won against Utah 95-92, MVP of the game was Guillermo Diaz, who played 38 minutes with 25 pts (7/15 2pts, 2/3 3pts, 5/8 FT) and 5 assists. Daddy Yankee, one of the owners of Criollos de Caguas affirmed that He would like to have in his team 'Guillermito' to be more competitive.
Albuquerque won against Tulsa 124-108. Miguel Ali Berdiel played a 'partidazo' with 26 pts (6/8 2pts, 4/4 3pts, 2/3 FT), 4 rebs and 5 assts in 36 minutes. He was the 'MVP' of the game.
A. Fontana

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

Vucicevic signed in Ukraine -by Nenad Ilijev
Talented inside player Milan Vucicevic (205-F/C-85) passed tryout in Ukraine and he will stay in Budivelnik Kyiv till end of this season. Vucicevic started this season in Greek second division team Age Halkidas but left the team in January due bad organization of the club. He averaged 10.4ppg and 6rpg in Greece.

Radivoj Korac Cup - Semifinalists are known -by Dragan Jankovski
There wasn't any surprises in the quarterfinals of National Cup Radivoj Korac. Crvena Zvezda and Hemofarm STADA advanced to the semis on Thursday while Partizan Igokea and FMP outplayed their rivals yesterday.

Partizan Igokea was better than Swisslions Takovo 83-68. After the first quarter it was obvious that black and whites with justify their rating and make easy win. Novica Velickovic (205-F-86) led Partizan adding 18 points and 7 rebounds while Milton Palacio (190-G-78, college: Colorado St.) had 16 points and 4 rebounds. Aleksandar Mladenovic (207-F-84) was the best in Swisslions finishing game with 20 points and 8 rebounds. PG Vukasin Aleksic (185-G-85, agency: Beo Basket) scored 15 points.

FMP beat Vojvodina Srbijagas 84-73 thanks to nice played third quarter. Vladimir Golubovic of Vojvodina got foul troubles early what FMP's big guys exploited under the basket. Panthers had plus 3 on the half time but during the next 10 minutes they made advantage of 11 points and later extended lead to 17. Zoran Erceg (211-C/F-85) led Panthers nailing 26 points while Nemanja Protic (182-G-86) followed him adding 15 points, 5 rebounds and 5 assists. On the other side Istvan Nemeth (190-G-79, agency: Laszlo Vinko Services) had 19 points while captain Ivan Ivanovic (205-F-80, agency: Beo Basket) posted 18 points and 4 rebounds.


Partizan Igokea - Swisslions Takovo 83-68
(25-16,16-10,26-20,16-22)

Partizan Igokea: Velickovic 18 (7 rebs), Palacio 16 (4 rebs), Pekovic 10 (5 rebs)
Swisslions Takovo: Mladenovic 20 (8 rebs), Aleksic 15, Jovanovic 13 (5 rebs), Jelenic 11


FMP - Vojvodina Srbijagas 84-73
(19-17,16-15,23-15,26-26)

FMP: Erceg 26, Protic 15 (5 rebs, 5 as), Krstovic 12 (6 rebs)
Vojvodina Srbijagas: Nemeth 19, Ivanovic 18 (4 rebs), Pekovic 13 (5 rebs, 6 as)



Semifinals, today:
Crvena Zvezda - Hemofarm STADA at 18:00h
FMP - Partizan Igokea at 20:30h

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SLOVAK REP.

Gillespie signed try out with Nitra -by Martin Galajda
American point guard Brock Gillespie (188-G-82, college: Rice) signed try out contract with Casta SPU Nitra. He is on three games test. Nitra released Croatian guard Hrvoje Gasparac (189-G-84, college: S.Nevada CC).

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SLOVENIA

Krka, Helios, Koper, Olimpija rolls into semis -by Zeljko Zule
Krka, Helios, Luka Koper and Union Olimpija have advanced to the semifinals of the 2008 Cup Spar.
Defending champion Helios eliminated Geoplin Slovan by 77-74. Jack Ingram scored 19 points, Robert Troha 15 and Aljaz Janza 13. Slovan commited 33 personal fouls,
Simon Petrov finsihed with 21, Marko Jovanovic added 12 and Ernest Novak missed potential game-wining 3-pointer with 3 seconds left. Krka opened the game with 11 consecutive points and led as many as by 17 points early in third period but Zlatorog answered with 14 straight points of Lance Harris to take a 73-72 lead. Krka then made a 9-1 run as won 85-81. Jure Balazic 15 of his 27 points scored in first quarter, Davor Marcelic added 23 points on shooting 5-of-7 behind the arc and Lance Harris led Zlatorog with 31 points. Koper in last four minutes posted 13 straight points as defeated Zagorje 87-73. Miha Cmer (182-G-77) collected 26 points and 12 assists, Dusan Virijevic scored 21 points and Blaz Rucigaj had 13 points and 9 rebounds while Gilbert Goodrich lead Zagorje with 20 points. Union Olimpija in third period outscored TCG Mercator by 11 points to pick up a 87-76 victory. Goran Dragic netted 22 points on shooting 9-of-11, Marko Milic added 18 and Miha Zupan 14. Primoz Skok had a game-high 23 points for TCG Mercator.
Quarterfinals: Zlatorog-Krka 81-85, Helios-Geoplin Slovan 77-74, Luka Koper-Zagorje KD FT 87-73, TCG Mercator-Union Olimpija 76-87.
Semifinals (09/02): Krka-Helios, Luka kOper-Union Olimpija.

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SPAIN

Copa Del Rey Hosts Make It To The Final -by Paul Nilsen
09.02.08 COPA SEMI FINAL TAU CERAMICA BILBAO BASKET

Tau Ceramica have made it to the Copa Del Rey Final on their home court writes www.acb-basket.com after a big struggle with Basque country neighbours.

Bilbao were of course without the injured Luke Recker who went down in the quarter-final but veteran Paco Vasquez got Bilbao off to a flying start with a three-pointer and in the first few minutes they showed all the energy. They scored the first seven points of the game and could have been nine ahead if Weis hadn't missed two free-throws.

An impressive slam by Teletovic got Baskonia off the mark as he also drew the foul but Bilbao then stunned the home support with eight unanswered points to go 15-3 ahead just over the half way point of the opening period with Coach Spahija calling a time-out for his shell-shocked side.

Tau looked nervous and static at both ends and with no ball movement on offence they struggled, Wil McDonald missing a regulation lay-up highlighting the nerves. The home players did not seem to be mentally tuned into the game at all with an Igor Rakocevic three was all Tau could manage in the next few minutes. Quincy Lewis scored seven in a hurry for Bilbao but Tau finally got their inside game going with two quick inside scores by Teletovic and Splitter to drag Bilbao back to 16-10 after the first quarter.

Just as Tau began to come alive early in the second, they were helped by an unsportsmanlike foul called on Savovic for trying to stop a Tau break at source under their own basket after a missed Bilbao shot.

The introduction of Pete Mickeal (198-F-78, college: Cincinnati) either side of the quarter break was a big factor in increasing the intensity of the home team. They were dealt a blow when Planinic received his third foul just three minutes into the quarter but then seconds later, a bigger blow for Bilbao when the influential Weis also picked up his third to be taken out of the game for a while.

Mickeal underlined his importance to the revival of Tau when he grabbed the basket with a tough inside move that finally overhauled Bilbao and put Baskonia in the lead for the first time in the game at 21-20.

The home team moved out to 28-22 but two quick fire responses from Bilbao cut the lead to 28-26 but a Vidal three was greeted with jubilation by the home fans. Just when the men in black needed a lift, Huertas responded with a three of his own as the tempo really began to pick up towards the midway point of the game.

With Weis being rested on three fouls, Bilbao looked like getting swamped for periods without any real rebounding presence but they hung on and did well to go into the locker room trailing 32-30 and still in with a great opportunity of an upset.

11 points and 6 rebounds for Mikeal at half-time but too many turnovers again by Tau just like in the last game against Unicaja.

Huertas tied the game up right from the tip in the second half but two threes by Igor Rakocevic pushed out the advantage for Tau. Vazquez responded with a trey of his own in the face of Rakocevic, Problems for Bilbao mounted early when Weis picked up his fourth foul which was contentious to say the least getting called for a dubious offensive foul. The call enraged the boisterous Bilbao fans who were getting louder and louder with every minute.

Both sides then dried up with Martin Rancik guilty of missing a couple of easy looks but successive threes by Rakocevic and Vidal looked to have broken the game open at 52-43 with just over a minute left in the period. Bilbao closed the gap slightly at 53-47 going into the final period.

When Tau looked like pulling away in the last quarter Javi Salgado responded but Bilbao's hopes were left hanging by a thread when Weis fouled out of the game with almost six minutes remaining. The games MVP Pete Mickeal slammed down a jam and the Tau fans went crazy sensing a place in the final while Bilbao began to think it wasn't to be their tournament as they lost Martin Rancik to what looked a nasty injury after falling.

When Teletovic landed a big three to finally hand Tau the double digit advantage they had craved all game, Bilbao thought their chance had gone but they put together a great run to finish the game scoring 8 points in the last couple of minutes to ensure it was 66-64 with 8 seconds remaining.

Pablo Prigioni grabbed a huge rebound and then was sent to the line to covert one of two. Just when Huertas thought he might get a shot off to force overtime a clever foul by Rakocevic put him on the line to hand Baskonia the ball 67-66 ahead and just under four seconds on the clock.

After making the first, Tau cleverly missed the second to mean that Bilbao could not get another good look at the basket to force an incredible victory.

Pete Mickeal had 16 points and 10 rebounds while Bilbao did unbelievably well to get so close without Recker and then fouls and injuries to Weis and Rancik. They only had two assists all night showing how well they did in spite of this to keep the game close, Quincy Lewis top scoring with 16.

DKV Joventut overcome ACB leaders to make Copa Final -by Paul Nilsen
09.02.08 COPA SEMI-FINAL REAL MADRID 76 DKV JOVENTUT 81

ACB leaders Real Madrid were dumped out of the Copa at the semi-final stage by DKV Joventut in another thrilling tournament game writes www.acb-basket.com

Real started really strongly and opened up a 13-7 lead with Luis Bullock and Charles Smith both on fire. Badalona did come back once they found their stride and a Rudy Fernandez three tied the game up at 15-15.

However an 11-0 Madrid run ending in two Bullock back to back threes caused Coach Reneses to call time-out with just under 90 seconds left and it was not surprising with Madrid looking so fluent and moving the ball really well to find the open shooter and get their double-figure lead.

Badalona immediately almost cut the deficit in half as Lavinia scored immediately after the re-start to break the run and big man Sonseca made a nice move in the post. However a Reyes twelve footer ended the quarter for Real with a 28-20 lead and a fair reflection on the first period.

Especially with Madrid so lethal from outside nailing six three pointers in the first ten minutes.

Badalona were much stronger in the first part of tghe second quarter and went on an 8-1 run with Demon Mallet then almost giving Penya the lead. Real went big on Hervelle, Mumbru and Reyes and that combined with Bullocks smooth shooting restored their eight point advantage at 36-26 midway through the period.

Felipe Reyes put in his usual battling work inside and was causing problems for Joventut but vice versa Mallet, Lavina and Jagla were warming up nicely for Badalona with some nice outside shooting that was keeping their side in the game.

Both sets of fans traded insults in the stands even more rigorously than usual when Fernandez was caught in the face and the Real fans branded him an actor which caused even more animosity. To make matters worse, Catalan born Alex Mumbru converted free-throw just after much to the delight of Real supporters as the argument took over off the court.

Another Jagla three pulled the score back to 41-39 but typically with 2 minutes left Bullock continued to ooze real class and effortlessly replied in kind for Real.

With a minute left Fernandez responded to the jeers of the Madrid fans with a big off balance trey to tie the game at 44-44 before two free throws by Bullock handed Real a 46-44 advantage at the half.

If Badalona wanted to win the game they knew that they had to lock down Madrid outside because with Bullock perfect from the arc on his way to 18 points and with Madrid having shot 62 percent, it was not a trend that Reneses will have wanted to continue.

However he will have known that his side could have played better with not much production from either Barton or Rubio and despite Madrid having a great shooting night, it was just a one-shot game after twenty minutes.

Within two minutes Badalona had managed an 8-2 run to take the lead with two breaks and two basket from Jagla. Things got even more intense for Penya when Rudy disappeared for twenty seconds after falling into the courtside to save a ball and set up a Badalona score.

In fact Joan Plaza called time-out as his side trailed 54-48 after less than three minutes of the penultimate quarter. It looked as if Madrid had simply lost their composure and concentration. They were turning the ball over, committing offensive fouls and travelling under defensive pressure, something that even turned into full court pressure by Badalona.

A Sonseca dunk increased Madrid woes before Bullock finally broke a barren spell with two free throws. However a Jagla three from the corner midway through the period pushed Joventut out to 59-50. Despite Madrid scoring the next two baskets a three from way downtown by Mallet kept the gap intact.

Reyes continued to bang inside and nice move drew the basket and the foul with two minutes left. The place then erupted when Rudy Fernandez fumbled the ball way outside the arc off balance and threw the ball over his head with one second left in possession. Outrageously it dropped with a nice bit of help off the backboard and then with Madrid in a zone, Badalona increased their lead to 58-68 with another three right away.

Fortunately for Real, Smith ended the scoring for the quarter with a three-pointer of his own to underline the real shootout that the game had become.

In the first possession yet another three, this time by Charles Smith continued the feast from outside although Smith was playing on a knife edge on four fouls.

With six minutes remaining in the game Badalona were 73-66 ahead and Reals momentum seemed to be taken away by some poor play by Raul Lopez who put up three poor shots and was dribbling the ball far too much.

Coach Reneses had done a good job of stopping Real from running the floor and moving the ball with some much better defence than in the first half.

Real then scored eight unanswered points including four from Mumbru to get within one at 73-72 while Jagla fouled out for Joventut. Offensively Badalona started going with Fernandez on almost every possession and away from the open shooters like Mallet and Lavina. It backfired and after Rudy was called for charging on his way to the basket, Alex Mumbru put Real 76-75 up with 90 seconds left.

Despite having had a quiet game, Ricky Rubio then cut to the hoop with just over a minute remaining to ensure his side got their noses back in front before a time-out gave everyone a chance to catch a breath.

Neither side scored on their next possession and then with thirty seconds left Reyes was called for a foul trying to grab an offensive board and with Madrid in the penalty Sonseca went to the line for two shots. He kept his cool and sunk them both.

As Real tried to respond, they turned the ball over and Ricky Rubio put the cherry on the cake with a breakaway score to complete an impressive victory.

Louis Bullock scored 20 points for Real and Felipe Reyes had a double-double with 14 points and 12 rebounds while Badalona had a real spread of scorers. Looking at the after game statistics it would be hard to tell how Joventut won although perhaps 21 Real turnovers is all that you needed to know.



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U.S.VIRGIN ISL.

Boyd Anderson to District Final -by David Edole
Boyd Anderson overcame a 10 point halftime deficit to defeat Douglas 77-57 in the District 11-6A semifinal played at Coconut Creek High.
The Cobras (25-1) will face Ely, a 83-63 winner over Deerfield Beach, in the district championship today at 7 p.m.
Bryan Bynes had a game-high 27 points and Ivan Aska added 21 points and 15 rebounds to lead Boyd Anderson. Aska, Murray State signee, is a 6-foot-7 forward.
David Jean-Jacques lead the Tigers (17-6) with 24 points and Dorrian Johnson added 22 points.
Boyd Anderson defeated Ely in both matchups earlier this season.

Boyd Anderson 77, Douglas 57
DOUGLAS (17-8)
Pitera 3-3-10, Jonassaint 6-2-14, Alerte 7-2-16, Wallace 0-2-2, Asuncion 1-3-5, Lazerson 2-0-6, Kowitz 1-0-2, Haas 1-0-2. Totals 21-12-57.
BOYD ANDERSON (25-1)
B. Bynes 9-5-27, Irving 2-3-7, Gaines 4-3-11, Davis 2-2-6, Aska 8-5-21, C. Bynes 1-1-3, Davin 1-0-2. Totals 27-19-77.
Douglas 20 21 12 4 — 57
Anderson 11 20 22 24 — 77
3-point goals — B. Bynes 4, Lazerson 2, Pitera. Rebounds — Boyd Anderson (Aska 15). Assists — Boyd Anderson (Davis 14).



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Women News

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CZECH REP. - Women

Gambrinus loses in Hungary -by Eurobasket News
MiZo Pecs - Gambrinus 58:55

Gambrinus did not decide the task of qualifying to the next round of Euroleague in Game 2 of the eighth-final clash versus MiZO Pecs. Hungarian team celebrated a heart-stopping close win at home yesterday to force the third game in the series. Pesci got to a better start of the game and kept the lead throughout the opening frame. Zsofia Fegyverneky (178-G-84) and Anna Vajda (191-F/C-84) gave the hosts a 17:7 lead late in the quarter. Hamchetou Maiga (185-G/F-78, college: ODU) came up with a free throw to seal the outcome at 10:19 after 10 minutes. Tijana Krivacevic (190-F-90) scored two free throws to open up a double-digit lead early in the second frame. Hamchetou Maiga and Jana Vesela (194-F-83) trimmed the gap, while Zuzana Zirkova (175-F/G-80) finalized the first half with a jumper to pull the visitors within 7 points 27:34 at the break. Zuzana Zirkova, Petra Kulichova (198-C-84) and Eva Viteckova (190-F-82) minimized the deficit but 4 straight points from Graziane Coelho (192-C-83) gave some breathing space for MiZo Pecs again. Gambrinus refused to surrender and Hana Machova (182-F/G-79) knocked down 5 points in a row for Czech team to trail by just 2 heading into the fourth period. Zuzana Zirkova started the final term with a three-point bomb to set Gambrinus in front 46:45. Tijana Krivacevic soon retained Pesci lead and later