EUROBASKET NEWS REPORT - 3/5/2008

Copyright © 1997-2007 Eurobasket
WARNING:
Do not copy, redistribute, publish or otherwise exploit information that you download from the site!
Do not encumber, license, modify, publish, sell, transfer or transmit, or in any way exploit, any of the
content of the report, nor will you attempt to do so.
More info:www.eurobasket.com


Men News

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

Market news -by Dragan Jankovski
Like Eurobasket already wrote about the possibility, management of Cibona decided to terminate the contract with USA guard Tre Kelley (183-G-85, college: S.Carolina). The team immediately signed Corey Williams (191-G-77, college: Alabama St.), ex player of Dakota Wizards, Cholet Basket, Townsville Crocodiles.

Union Olimpija from Ljubljana parted ways with Boris Gorenc (195-G-73), who played only four games so far in Adriatic league due to injury. In the past Gorenc used to play for Khimky Moscow, Snaider Udine, Olympiakos, Varese, Montepaschi, Imola.

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

market news -by Facundo Iatzky
Liga a: central entrerriano released Carlos Wheeler (12 games: 9.6 pts 4.2 reb) and signed Jamal Johnson (201-C-81, college: Clayton St.) until the end of the season.

TNA: La union Formosa signed Juan Sartorelli (190-G-83). Sartorelli recently released by Boca jrs wil play with his former team-mate Federico Aguerre. sartorelli averaged this year in Boca 3.2 pts and 1.6 as in 37 games and he will replace Javier Ceci (injured).
Regatas San nicolas signed Trelonnie Owens (202-F-71, college: Wake Forest) and released Khayri Battle
Ciclista Olimpico la banda fired Ariel Amarillo and hired Gonzalo Garcia as head coach

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

FIBA EUROCUP: Rock has made history! -by Janar Filippov
Estonian champions TU/Rock has made history, reaching FIBA EuroCup Final Four. This is the greatest achievement ever in Estonian basketball at European club level. TU/Rock beat famous Russian club Ural Great Perm 89:77 (40:47) and won the best-of-three series 2:1. Giorgi Tsintsadze (192-G-86) scored 23 of his 25 points in 2nd half and was the undoubted MVP today but his team-mates Tanel Tein (194-G/F-78, college: St.Francis,NY), Janar Talts (204-C-83), Brian Cusworth (213-C-84, college: Harvard), Vallo Allingu (206-C-78) and Marek Doronin (200-F/G-83) also knew when to sparkle.
Rock was trainiling by 11 with only a minute to play in 3rd quarter but went on with a breath-taking 16:0 spurt and never gave up he lead. In closing minutes, both Tsintsadze and Cusworth were unstoppable in offence as the first kept scoring from long and close range and hitting free throws, and the latter dominated the rebounding at both ends. But what's even most important, the head coach of TU/Rock , Ullar Kerde could force his team to a full control at defence.

The hosts started the game well and led for almost whole 1st quarter, winning it 20:15. Tein had 9, Talts 7 points. In 2nd quarter, the bench players of Ural Great, Aleksandr Dedushkin (207-C-81), Roman Khamitov (199-F-84) and Aleksei Surovtsev (202-G-84) became too hot to handle as they combined 22 points this quarter. Ural Great made 12/13 field goals this quarter and took the lead 47:40. They were 14/17 for 2-pointers in 1st half.
In 3rd, the hosts closed the gap to one as Tsintsadze and Doronin nailed a triple. But the guests answered woth a 10:0 run and went up by 11 with 11 minutes left.

In decisive quarter, the home crowd of almost 3000 (i.e. almost twice as much as the capacity of Tartu Sports Hall) saw a near-to-perfect basketball from their idols. First, Tsintsadze and Kullamae scored, then Cusworth made a slam dunk and Talts an alley-oop and the hosts never looked back. The hotter it was on the court, the calmer was Tsintsadze, the Georgian play-maker, whose three-pointer and fadeaway layup made it 79:71 with 3 minutes left, and with a minute to play, his free throws put Rock up by ten, as the crowd's ovations started to take off the roof.

Tsintsadze scored 25, Tein 15, Talts 13, Cusworth 12 and Allingu 9 for the hosts. Brent Wright (203-F/C-78, college: Florida) led the guests with 18 points.

TU/Rock faces Barons Riga in FIBA EuroCup semifinal.

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

Lukoil Academic scored season-high 116 points -by Valentin Anguelov
Lukoil Academic had no difficulties defeating Rilski Sportist and winning its 26th consecutive game today. They scored a season high 116 points for the final result of 116-80.

That was the last game for Rilski Sportist in 'SU Nikola Velchev Hall'. From Saturday both men's and women's teams will be playing in their new 'Arena Samokov'.

The whole game was completely under Lukoil's control. Most of the time Zeljko Lukaic used his main players throughout most of the game and it wasn't until the final minutes of the game that he let his younger players in.

Pero Antic proved his magnificent form again by finishing with 34 points missing only 2 of his 12 field goals and only once from the free-throw line (8/9). He also added 2 three-pointers to a total index rating of 37, the best in the game.

Larry O'Bannon (191-F-83, college: Louisville) was in the starting line-up and finished with 19 points, 5 rebound and 4 steals while Willie Deane scored 18 points in only 17 minutes on the court.

The Dominican Santos Martines was the most productive player for the hosts with his 23 points. HDI All Star participant Alexander Gruev finished with 20.

Three of Petko Delev's main players didn't take part in the game due to injuries. Ilko Nanev is with a broken palm bone and is out till the mid-April. Andrean Ilchev is with torn Achilles tendon and he will be out for long. The forward will undergo a surgery tomorrow. Momchil Petrov has a torn muscle and is also going to watch the game from the stands. That forced Delev to give a chance to his younger players such as Ivaylo Vuchkov, Krasimir Georgiev, Lyubomir Kirov and the youngest Darin Ivanov, born in 1991.

The game was also the last official test for Lukoil Academic before they meet Dinamo Moscow for the ULEB Cup next Tuesday (11th March) in 'Universiada Hall', Sofia.

Both Rilski Sportist and Lukoil will play their next games in the Bulgarian A-1 in almost a month. On 2nd April Lukoil Academic are hosting Yambol while Rilski Sportist will try to surprise CSKA for a second time in Sofia.

The final three games before the pause for the HDI All Star game and the Bulgarian Cup are tomorrow. All of them will be very interesting and especially the derby between Levski and CSKA.

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

UBC wins Canada West title -by Eurobasket News
The UBC Thunderbirds narrowly defeated the Alberta Golden Bears 92:90 at the Jack Simpson Gym at the weekend. Chris Dyck (190-G-85) fueled the Thunderbirds as they posted an 11:3 run late in the third period to take a 75:66 lead with a quarter to go in the game. The Golden Bears stayed close however. They paved their way back into 2 points 84:86 with just over a minute left in regulation. Brent Malish (198-G/F-89) and Scott Leigh (180-G-88) traded treys but the Thunderbirds secured the advantage with a deadly free throw shooting in the dying seconds. Chris Dyck finished with 27 points and 6 boards to lead UBC. Brent Malish notched 15 points and 17 rebounds in a winning case. Justin Vanloo (196-F-85, college: N.Idaho JC) answered with 25 points for the Golden Bears. Alex Steele (186-G-84) had 20 points and 6 assists in defeat.
Laval routed McGill to reach the Quebec Conference Final. Laval were dominant throughout the game and dismantled McGill 89:54. Jean-Francois Maheux scored 25 points for the Rouge et Or. Jean-Philippe Morin (201-F-83) added 19 points and 11 boards for the winners. Moustafa El Zanaty (191-G-82) nailed 11 points in a losing case. Laval will now face Concordia in the Conference Final.
Western beat Brock 79:62 in the OUA semis. Owen White (201-F-80) netted 18 points to lead Western. Bradley Smith (198-F) scored 20 points for Toronto in a loss. Carleton surpassed Ottawa in another Conference semifinal. Aaron Doornekamp (201-F-85) accounted for 19 points in a 75:56 victory. Sean Peter (191-G) led the Gee-Gees with 14 points and 5 boards.

*****************************************************
CENT.AFRICA

Former Laurinburg duo finishing Junior College -by Rolando Delabarrera
Tow former Laurinburg Institute players from the Central African Republic are completing their eligibility at their respective Junior Colleges. Celeste Mayle is averaging 2.7 ppg and 3.3 rpg for Redlands CC in Oklahoma. The 6'7'' power forward played last year at Eastern Oklahoma State College. William Kossangue is finishing up at Tyler College in Texas and is averaging 7.4 ppg and 5.1 rpg. An update on their signing will follow in April.

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

Semi Finals: APOEL and Keravnos made the first step -by Chris Mammides

Aspis Apoel and Keravnos Strovolou won their opponents and made the 1-0 (in the best of five series) for the first game of the Semi finals. Aspis Apoel beat Proteas EKA AEL 73-63 and Keravnos Strovolou beat Hasapis Omonia Nicosia 83-67.
Aspis Apoel Nicosia - Proteas EKA AEL 73-63

After a great game the Nicosia team succeeded to win the first and quite crucial game against the permanent champions, team of AEL. With an amazing second quarter which found the home team with a deficit of +10 points (34-24) and then with a new 13-8 increase the deficit to fifteen points (47-32) and with a three pointer from Tyson Wheeler (183-G-75, college: Rhode Island) made create teh biggest difference of 18 points (50-32) to finish the third quarter with56-43 after a short comeback made, mainly by woodward who was the best player on behalf of the visitors. The fourth quarter, the Limassol team tried to make a bigger come back but APOEL with Grigoris Pantouris (190-G/F-82) both defence and offence, Balca Radunovic (206-F/C-80) was the top performer and the MVP of the game. The quarters were: 15-14, 37-28, 56-43, 73-63 . Next game will be played in the Melford Arena this weekend.

The scorers of the two temas were:

Apoel: Van Dorpe 7, Hansen 2, Miceta 2, Jones 3, Balca Radunovic 17, Tyson Wheeler 17, Grigoris Pantouris 12, Garcia 13

AEL: Liatsos 4, Radle 14, Buziane 4, Zianveni 12, Aleksic 15, Woodward 14 (2).

Keravnos Strovolou - Hasapis Omonia Nicosia 83-67

In the other game played in Strovolos, Coach Frangias team did not had any difficulties against Omonia Nicosia and with an early lead of 10 points, and with the American point guard Patric Lee, in a great day from the parameter (5/8 three pointers), the Strovolos team finished the game from the half time as the 25 points scored by Omonia players was not really a thread for Frangias players for the next 20 minutes. Five players had double digits with Lee scoring 24 and smith following with 15 points. The quarters were: 22-13, 40-25, 65-51, 83-67
The scorers were:
Keravnos: Anastasiadis 8, Smith 15, Damijanovic 12, Trisokkas 14, Lee 24, Radojevic 10
Omonoia: Mijalovic 1, Davis 16, Jankevicius 12, Mouchtaris 3, Dorde Prstojevic (191-G-77) 12(2), Marvin Stone (208-C-81, college: Louisville) 23(1).



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

The leader stay tuned -by Eurobasket News
The Bakken Bears posted two victories last week to remain out-of-reach at the top of the Basketligaen. The Bears opened the week's action with a confident 99:61 win over Aabyhoj. The dominance was pretty obvious as the hosts were gradually piling up the advantage and built a 13-point buffer at the interval. The complexion of the game hardly changed after the break with the Bears coasting to yet another victory in the tournament. Jason Siggers (193-G/F-85, agency: Strategic Sports, college: Albany) knocked down 21 points and made 6 steals to pace the home team. Nicolai Iversen (204-F-80, agency: Rasmussen Services, college: San Jose City JC) delivered 17 points and 6 boards for the winners. Thomas Skotting (193-F-82) answered with 15 points for Aabyhoj.
A successful week for Bakken continued on Sunday when the Bears took on Horsholm at home. The 79ers entered the game bravely and grabbed an early lead. The hosts leveled the game by the end of the starting frame and it was all square at 12 after 10 minutes of action. Both sides raised the tempo in the second quarter and surprisingly it was Horsholm who was at the helm after 20 minutes of action 40:36. But the Bears stepped on the gas after the main break. They tightened up their defense and limited the visitors to just 11 points in the third period. It resulted in Bakken taking a 56:51 lead after 30 minutes. The 79ers managed even less in the final term notching 8 points and losing their 13th game of the season. Jason Siggers tallied 23 points for Bakken. Nicolai Iversen finished with 14 points and 5 boards in a win. Duane James (198-F-83, college: Binghamton) responded with 17 points and 11 boards for the 79ers.

*****************************************************
EGYPT

Gazco 90 Vs 92 Sporting -by Eslam Mohamed
Sporting Club goes beyond Gazco club

On Gazco court sporting was able to win today 92-90 after an exciting game
No team was able to take the lead for the full game gazco go up for sometime and sporting players get back to the game soon
plyaer number 6 of sporting has scored seven 3 points and four 2 points and one free throw take his team to the lead at the end of the game with 30 points and to be the best scorer in the game
quarter score
1st 21-17 Gazco
2nd 26-29 Sporting
3rd 19-24 Sporting
4th 24-22 Gazco

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

Zona Premier and Nacional updatings -by Jaime Arevalo
After that Santa Ana won Game 3 of quarterfinals, the four teams yet in teh rush played the first semifinal game of Zona Premier, and the results were Denver2 - Cosmos-2 95-85 and Universidad Francisco Gavidia (UFG) - Santa Ana 76-65. Thanks to this win, UFG, a team that won' t participate to LSB in 2008, confirms its ranking of favourite in Zona Premier.
In Zona Nacional semis, ITEXAL defeated Delgadense 71-66 and San Marcos prevailed over ITCA 85-65.


LSB at the start -by Jaime Arevalo
Tonigh, with the game Denver-ExSal started in El Salvador the 2008 edition of Liga Superior de Baloncesto (LSB). The other three teams that will compete in the Apertura tournment are Cosmos, UTEC and San Marcos. The roster announced by Centro Educativo Denver for the opening game is as follows: Carlos Alas (181-G-79), Oscar Tobar (195-F/C-75), Abilio Vadillo (180-G-78), Jorge Loucel (186-F-90), Carlos Espinal (175-G-76), Bob Hunter (193-F-76), Mauricio Lahud (176-G-84), Carlos Avalos, David Gonzalez (185-G-78) (from APG). The import players are Daniel King (203-F-87) (PAN) and Alejandro Cajar (190-G/F-78) (PAN). The head coach is Ricardo Renderos

ExSal roster unveiled -by Jaime Arevalo
Ex Alumnos Colegio Salesiano met Denver in the opening game of the LSB-Apertura with the following line-up: Salvador Bandek (181-G-78), Oscar Rivera (186-G-80), Carlos Martinez (190-F-79), Julio Mancia (202-C-80), Sergio Zetino (173-G-87), Fernando Zetino (173-G-89), Fabio Molina (195-G/F-81), Miguel Banos (186-F/C-84), Ramon Urias (199-C-73), Guillermo Flores (186-F-85). The team coaches are Domingo Torres and Roberto Morales . The team hasn' t announced import players yet, but should add two of them soon, probably from USA. If they will be enough good, ExSal could battle for the title again.

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

FIBA EUROCUP: Rock made history! -by Janar Filippov
Estonian champions TU/Rock have made history, reaching FIBA EuroCup Final Four. This is the greatest achievement ever in Estonian basketball at European club level. TU/Rock beat famous Russian club Ural Great Perm 89:77 (40:47) and won the best-of-three series 2:1. Giorgi Tsintsadze (192-G-86) scored 23 of his 25 points in 2nd half and was the undoubted MVP today but his team-mates Tanel Tein (194-G/F-78, college: St.Francis,NY), Janar Talts (204-C-83), Brian Cusworth (213-C-84, college: Harvard), Vallo Allingu (206-C-78) and Marek Doronin (200-F/G-83) also knew when to sparkle.
Rock was trainiling by 11 with only a minute to play in 3rd quarter but went on with a breath-taking 16:0 spurt and never gave up he lead. In closing minutes, both Tsintsadze and Cusworth were unstoppable in offence as the first kept scoring from long and close range and hitting free throws, and the latter dominated the rebounding at both ends. But what's even most important, the head coach of TU/Rock , Ullar Kerde could force his team to a full control at defence.

The hosts started the game well and led for almost whole 1st quarter, winning it 20:15. Tein had 9, Talts 7 points. In 2nd quarter, the bench players of Ural Great, Aleksandr Dedushkin (207-C-81), Roman Khamitov (199-F-84) and Aleksei Surovtsev (202-G-84) became too hot to handle as they combined 22 points this quarter. Ural Great made 12/13 field goals this quarter and took the lead 47:40. They were 14/17 for 2-pointers in 1st half.
In 3rd, the hosts closed the gap to one as Tsintsadze and Doronin nailed a triple. But the guests answered woth a 10:0 run and went up by 11 with 11 minutes left.

In decisive quarter, the home crowd of almost 3000 (i.e. almost twice as much as the capacity of Tartu Sports Hall) saw a near-to-perfect basketball from their idols. First, Tsintsadze and Kullamae scored, then Cusworth made a slam dunk and Talts an alley-oop and the hosts never looked back. The hotter it was on the court, the calmer was Tsintsadze, the Georgian play-maker, whose three-pointer and fadeaway layup made it 79:71 with 3 minutes left, and with a minute to play, his free throws put Rock up by ten, as the crowd's ovations started to take off the roof.

Tsintsadze scored 25, Tein 15, Talts 13, Cusworth 12 and Allingu 9 for the hosts. Brent Wright (203-F/C-78, college: Florida) led the guests with 18 points.

TU/Rock faces Barons Riga in FIBA EuroCup semifinal.

*****************************************************
ETHIOPIA

score board -by Yoseph Zemede


score board -by Yoseph Zemede


score board -by Yoseph Zemede


*****************************************************
EURO CUP

KK Zagreb end their EuroCup campaign -by Eurobasket News
Barons - KK Zagreb 96:91

KK Zagreb did not survive the third decisive game in the quarterfinal series against Barons and got eliminated from the competition. Croatian team travelled to Riga with the series tied at 1-1 and hoped to get the momentum going after a win at home. But Barons withstood all the efforts from Zagreb to upset a supportive 8,500 home crowd in Riga. The game turned out to be a real thriller with the teams keeping it close throughout the whole encounter. The lead changed hands for 4 times in the opening 3 minutes before Barons trebles from Berzins and Adomaitis to run away to a 6-point distance. Dundovic immediately reacted with a trey of his own to keep Zagreb in visibility. Berzins, Skele and Adomaitis ignited another rally for the hosts and built a 30:21 buffer but just to watch Zagreb responding with a 6:0 run to cap the first frame at 27:30. The teams kept on trading buckets in the second period and Dundovic knocked down a triple to give the visiting side a 47:46 lead midway through the term. Skele and Alexander retained the lead for Barons but Zadracev and Babic banked 5 straight points for Zagreb and Croatian team enjoyed a 56:55 advantage at halftime.
Gustas converted a bunch of free throws early in the third quarter as Barons once again surged ahead. Not for long though. Vladovic and Basljan scored 4 in a row and Zagreb got hold of the advantage. The lead changed hands for 9 times throughout the third period with the tension filling up the air. The hosts were able to close the third frame on a 5:0 run to claim a 75:71 cushion. The home side maintained the lead in the fourth period and was up by 2 points with a minute to go in regulation. Skele then hit a free throw to stretch the margin, while Vladovic committed a turnover to deny Zagreb a chance to tie the game. Adomaitis was deadly from charity stripe and finalized a winning outcome for Latvian team.
Skele scored 20 points to lead Barons. Adomaitis netted 19 points and pulled down 6 boards in a winning case. Vladovic and Tomic responded with 20 points apiece for Zagreb. Dundovic knocked down 16 points in defeat. Barons will now face TU/Rock in the EuroCup semis.

Barons: Skele 20, Adomaitis 19, Gustas 15
Zagreb: Vladovic 20, Tomic 20, Dundovic 16



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

KORISLIIGA: Kataja defeated TC 103-91 -by Rauno Hurmalainen

Korisliiga, Round 37: Only one game tonight. Kataja (Joensuu) defeated at home Team Componenta (Karkkila) 103-91. Both Teams had four players
in double figures and though visitor TC was shooting better and won the rebounds, Kataja won mostly on FT line and with few TOs (13-20).
American G Louis Hinnant (193-G-84, college: Boston Coll.) led Kataja with 28 pts. Terry Black (198-F-78, agency: CAA Sports, college: Baylor) added 18 pts. Sami Lehtoranta (205-C/F-79, agency: ANYPEX) made a come back after the shoulder injury at the end of November. Lehtoranta played 19 minutes with figures 9pts/4rbs. Chris Hester (192-G-79, college: E.Washington) led Karkkila with 33 pts. Nick Wallery (201-F-81, college: Albany St.) added 14 pts and grabbed 22 rbs.

Kataja - Team Componenta 103-91 (49-48) (Louis Hinnat 28, Terry Black 18/12 - Chris Hester 33, Nick Wallery 14/22).



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

NM1 Day 24: Antibes, Charleville and Blois on top -by Chris Spiesser
Besides the focus on the Mulhouse-Longwy game, another blockbuster was listed last WE. Antibes hosted Charleville with the possibility, for the azureans, to stick back to place 1. Which is what happened. With Blois' victory in Andrezieux those three teams are sharing the first rank. At place 4, Fos remains in embush after an offensively strong win against Challans. In the bottom, we can note the important victories of Lille and Bordeaux while Feurs' loss in Toulouges could eliminate them from place 13 run.

Antibes 84-71 Charleville
The turning point of the game happened during the third QT, won 24-13 by the locals. Antibes took advantage of Cornett's physical impact (15pts 7/9, 14rbs). With 23 assists (Sauret 9ass) and a good defense (Charleville shot at 41%), Antibes secured the win and also the point-average after the initial loss in Charleville 81-73.

Andrezieux 88-99 Blois
The greens are still going to play against their two rivals at home, Antibes being welcomed next week. With such an opportunity, they remained strong by playing a tricky game where Blot and Orr were suspended. Nevertheless, coach Faure found the alternatives with Cizeau (15pts 5/6 3pts) and Mercier (25pts, 3rbs) showing that they could deserve more minutes.

Fos 107-92 Challans
If Seth Scott had a second nice game (24pts, 12rbs), Babou Babacar Cisse (189-G-76) was just on another planet: 34pts (15/24), 3rbs, 8stl, 5ass. His team scored 34pts in the last QT and ended the game with only 5to. Place 1 remains totally opened for the azureans who have a quite friendly calendar.

The other results and their main facts:

Golbey-Epinal 90-85 Boulogne
43pts (72%), 7rbs, 12ass for Thevenon plus Herard

Lievin 66-79 Bordeaux
73 ranking points for Preira, Curculosse and Owona

Toulouges 95-83 Feurs
31pts (7/11), 3rbs for Ragauskas and 29pts (10/14), 9rbs for Burch

Angers 80-52 Centre Federal
15pts (100%), 3ass for Doles and a season high for Gilbert (17pts (8/11), 5rbs)

Lille 76-55 Saint-Chamond
After 3 hard games, Taccoen stroke back (14pts, 15rbs, 4stl). Malet took also nicely part in the win (18pts, 6rbs, 6ass).

Mulhouse 63-74 Longwy
(See article)

NM1: Longwy casts a shadow on Mulhouse -by Chris Spiesser
The locals desperatly needed a victory to avoid a relegating spot and the obligation to win two more games than Longwy, as well as Boulogne, to remain in NM1. To do so the efficient administratives of the FCM almost managed to fullfill the Palais des Sports and gave to that Sunday afternoon game a nice familiar atmosphere. On the court also, the situation was positive for Mulhouse with a complete roster focused during an impressive warm up. On the other hand, Longwy was missing his red hot player. Jonathan Godin (184-G-82) due to a three technical fouls suspension. The Mulhouse formed PG posted 66 ranking points over his two last games and shows some nice season averages despite 3.3topg: 13.6ppg (47%), 3.1rpg, 2.1spg, 4.8apg.

But once the jump ball thrown, the situation quickly reversed. The two teams soon fitted to their recent trends. Longwy goes 7-1 over the last weeks while Mulhouse is 3-9 since the end of November. The officials had to whistle an agressive and concentrated team playing against an adversary which was missing those impact elements. Mulhouse's offense is really bad (71ppg, 16th) and on the court the impression wasn't any better. The alsatians tried to post Longwy inside on almost every possession. But Aaron Coombs (209-F-82, college: NC-Wilmington) and Co soon adapted and took the lead. Surprisingly, maybe under pressure, Mulhouse's harsh defense wasn't appoint. Some forgotten rotations gave Longwy the first advantage (18-26, 10'). After that QT, coach Meriguet put Christopher Marsh (195-F-81, agency: R.H.Consultancy) instead of Zaka Alao (187-G-81) to the PG position. The belgian-canadian gave some more density to Longwy's offensive tempo and the lorrains scored four more points than Mulhouse in the second quarter. At halftime the score was 33-45 and Mulhouse paid cash its lack of intensity. From the FT line, the locals shot a rickety 1/2 while Longwy converted 11 one pointers over 15 tries. After what might have been a rude halftime, the locals came back with a totally different attitude. Their defense was set, Zaka Alao could get stopped (13pts 3/4 3pts after 20') and Longwy lost many balls allowing a 7-0 to coach Gonsalves boys. If Aaron Coombs (18pts, 12rbs) bore his team during this third QT, the game was tight again (50-54, 30') and everything remained possible for the last period. Atinkpahoun (10pts 4/6, 5rbs) and Zaka Alao (16pts, 3stl, 8to, 5ass) gave a 9pts lead to Longwy but their offensive risks caused 2 FTs and 2 TOs. At 56-59, coach Meriguet took a decisive timeout. Driven by Marsh (19pts, 8rbs), Longwy started to play wisely with a big defense. On the other hand, Mulhouse made the wrong options despite Benjamin Obouh Fegue (197-F-87) combativity (11pts, 9rbs). At final, the alsatians lost 63-74, N'Dour was impressive in the paint (16pts 8/11, 11rbs), but the team will have to make serious collective adjustments to avoid a lethal NM2 fall.

'Big trouble' was the mostly used term by the disappointed supporters to qualify their team's situation. But a little ray of sun sneaks into the Palais des Sports. The Mulhousian calendar is really easier than Logwy's, Franck Meriguet revealed his point eagerness before the game because his team will have to face the 6 firsts over the 8 next games. Over the 10 last games, Mulhouse will play 6 times at home, mostly against teams ranked beyond place 7. But their home ratio (5w-7d) will have to be raised!

The results:
Lievin 66-79 Bordeaux
Toulouges 95-83 Feurs
Fos 107-92 Challans
Angers 80-52 Centre Federal
Mulhouse 63-74Longwy
Andrezieux 88-99 Blois
Golbey-Epinal 90-85 Boulogne
Antibes 84-71 Charleville
Lille 76-55 Saint-Chamond
(Details coming soon)

*****************************************************
GAMBIA

Alieu Badara Njie- Gambian College prospect. -by Rolando Delabarrera

Alieu Badara Njie is a 6'8'' wiry athlete with good hops and adequate lateral mobility. A member of the Wallidan team in Gambia this athletic power forward is still in the development phase ,but could materialize into a solid talent. When I saw him this past summer in Banjul, what I liked about him was his quickness for his size. Granted, he is a work in progress offensively, but in the right program he could be brought along to be a valuable defensive presence. I keep bringing up Pierre Jallow, but he is a prime example of an African athlete who transformed into a player. Jallow was a volleyball player and attended William Jewell College ( NAIA 2) and has become one of the most successful Gambian pro players alongside Boubacar Bojang.Alieu Badara Njie (203-F/C-88) Alieu might have that potential.



Njogu Taal top pro prospect (Gambia) -by Rolando Delabarrera
A player that deserves an opportunity to play overseas is Njogu Taal. The 6'7'' Gambian power forward has led the national team for the past five years and while many of his contemporaries have come stateside and are finishing their college careers; the talented forward has been stuck in Gambia. Njogu, as mentioned in previous article, has been denied visas several times to US schools. The 24 year old is still young enough to have a successful pro career. Having seen him 5 years ago in Banjul; I think he could be as productive as Pierre Jallow, who is having a fine professional career so far.

Njogu has a solid mid-range game and is an above average athlete. He is wiry strong and has post up ability. He will need some polishing ,but should advance quickly. He is very dedicated to the game and is hands down the best gambian on the men's team. In 05 when Gambia played Cabo Verde, Njogu scored 33 points.

Clubs or agents should contact the Gambian Basketball Federation for information on this talented Gambian.Njogu Taal (201-F)

Yusupha Trawally -Gambian College prospect. -by Rolando Delabarrera
Yusupha Trawally is a 6'9'' developing post player. He posesses a slender frame and needs to continue to add weight if he is to reach his full potential, but like Badara Njie , he is motivated and eager to learn the game. He would be suitalble for a smaller JUCO or NAIA looking for a 4 year player. What I did like when I saw him this past summer is his shooting touch from the midrange. I can see him developing a steady outside shot.

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

German National Team Roster 2008 -by Moritz Korff
The roster of Germanys Men's National Team for 2008 has been announced. Konrad Wysocki of ratiopharm Ulm and Yassin Idbihi of the Koeln 99ers are newcomers to the team of Coach Dirk Bauermann. Both represented Germany as members of the Junior NTs already, but made the roster of the Men's National Team for the first time. Also Christopher McNaughton didn't receive any cap for the A-squad yet, but already attended the training camp prior to the European Championships last year. This is the current roster:

Mithat Demirel - Bamberg
Patrick Femerling - Berlin
Robert Garrett - Bamberg
Demond Greene - Bamberg
Guido Gruenheid - Groningen (NED)
Steffen Hamann - Bamberg
Johannes Herber - Berlin
Yassin Idbihi - Koeln
Jan-Hendrik Jagla - Badalona (ESP)
Christopher McNaughton - L'hospitalet (ESP)
Misan Nikagbatse - Koeln
Dirk Nowitzki - Dallas
Ademola Okulaja - Bamberg
Pascal Roller - Frankfurt
Sven Schultze - Udine (ITA)
Konrad Wysocki - Ulm

Phoenix Hagen: Gennie has to go -by Moritz Korff
Phoenix Hagen (2. Bundesliga Pro A) announced today, that Donte Gennie (185-G-83, agency: AMI, college: Georgia Southern) has been dismissed for disciplinary reasons, effective immediately. 'We won't talk about the detailed reasons in public', Manager Oliver Herkelmann stated on the website of the team. Gennie played 23 times for Phoenix in the league averaging 12.8 points per contest. Also, the club-officials suspended Lukas Dawidowski (198-F-83) for the next two games and imposed a fine for disciplinary reasons as well.

Chris Kaman to join the German National Team? -by Moritz Korff
Rumors had it that Chris Kaman (213-C-82, college: Cent.Michigan), starting center of the Los Angeles Clippers who apparently has ancestors coming from Germany, is thinking about playing for the German Men's National Team in the future. Now the 25-year-old, who is currently averaging 16.0 points and 13.2 rebounds in the NBA, speaks out about this topic: 'The USA never approached me about anything, so I just want to be able to play in the summer', Kaman told dailybreeze.com. Read the whole story: click

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

B' Division: Match Day 20- Results and Scorers -by Chris Mammides

Olympiakos Volou - Komotini 79-98
Coach Lemonidis's team having in a great day Christos Tsakonitis (188-G/F-83) who finished the game with 26 points and another three players with double digits did not phase any problem against the weakest team in the division.
Quarters: 22-27, 42-53, 62-77, 79-98
Olympiakos Volou: Vogiatzis 2, Tsourelis 12, Fountas 2, Nanis 30, Arnaoutakis 2, Politis 8, Tsolis 17, Michos 6
Komotini: Mastrokostopoulos 3, Mouratoglou 7, Lehoudis 2, Dinas 9, Koutsovasilis 14, Christos Tsakonitis 26, Holevas 14, Veli 3, Souflias 18, Halil 2.

Ermis Lagkada - Lavrio 75-75, OT 83-82
With one shot from the charity line Troulialis gave the victory to the Lagkadas team bogging at the same time Serelis's dreams for A2.
Quarters: 20-16, 35-37, 64-55, 75-75, 83-82OT
Ermis Lagkada: Troulialis 11, Nikos Kloutzos (190-G) 15, Paritsis 10, Bellos 6, Vourlitis 2, Siolios 13, Gamouras 4, Akepsimaidis 2, Tasos Dimitriadis (201-C-82) 20 (2).
Lavrio: Trikaliotis 7, Rallis 7, N. Kousoulas 10, Giannakopoulos 15, Notis 6, Kassianos 4, Bakas 7, Psileas 26 (3).

Doukas - Anagennisis/Floga 86-74
Great game in Doukas's closed court with the home team winning the game due to their charismatic and talented Alexandros Petrakis (200-F-87) who did everything in the court, 24 points, 8 rebounds, 5 assists and 3 steals.
Quarters: 20-18, 40-42, 59-57, 86-74.
Doukas: Tsohlas 17, Kamariotis 2, Alexandros Petrakis 24, Achis 8, Kouvaris 4, Kritsalos 16, Matzioris 8, Karatzios 7
Anagennisi/Floga: Rozolis 5, Moisiadis 3, Pittakas 11, Sidiropoulos 10, Thymnios 2, Zarogiannis 22, Spiropoulos 3, Pallis

Milonas - Aigio 71-86
Quarters: 36-20, 47-45, 61-65, 71-86.
Milonas: Kalaitzakis 3, Ventouris 15, Karababas 8, Mubarak 5, Vlavianos 14, Kiritsis 6, Bikas 5 (1), Ballas 15.
Aigio: Prokos 14, Gioupis 3, Stamopoulos 10, Tirlas 26, Deraos 5, Manolas 12, Stavroulakis 16.

Ikaroi Serron - Amyntas 63-49
The home team was much better then their opponents and only during the second quarter they really had some trouble, other than, that and when Dorkofikis stopped scoring Ikaroi serron took a big lead a the 3rd quarter and they kept it until the end, MVP of the game was Asimakis.
Quarters: 13-11, 29-24, 53-36, 63-49.
Ikaroi Serron: Pehlivanis 11, Georgantzas 5, Tsanakas 6, Pappoudas 4, Asimakis 23, Giavropoulos 1, Topouzis 13.
Amyntas: Zoupas 6, Barbas 3, Samothrakis 9, Grammatikos 9, Boutros 1, Korizis 6, Dorkofikis 16, Vogiatzis 3, Christoforakis 3.

KAOD - Alimos 85-65
In Drama, there was a good game only for 20 minutes when Alimos through Tsolakis tried to defend it self with Tsolakis, when Elias Armenis key players got tired they loose the game quite easy.
Quarters: 16-10, 40-33, 65-52, 85-65.
KAOD: Papadopoulos 8, Kiosses 6, Filiousis 26, Michaelidis 15, Maslarinos 4, Koukouravas 16, Daliaris 10
Alimos (New Head Coach Armenis): Moutoupas 11, Tsolakis 14, Il. Vrinas 6, Bourousis 3, Ifantis 9, Kallimanas 7, Tzouggarakis 7, St. Vrynas 6, Thomas 2.

Goumenissa - Near East 67-68
Another game for the top performers in the league, ending at a point, that was the fourth game which Near East wins with the minimum difference of 1 point, this seazon
Quarters: 22-23, 38-42, 49-54, 67-68
Goumenissa: Bagi 12, meridis 12, Matenidis 9, Klepkos 22, Andreadis 9, Gotsos 3.
Near East: Nikou 8, Michalos 2, Lykogiannis 7, Kouklakis 9, Papoulidis 16, Neofytou 7, Sizopoulos 6, Papargiropoulos 4, Fasoulopoulos 2.

Makedonikos - Ikaros Kallitheas 64-67
A derby took place at Makedonikos's court with the home team very near to a big surprise but at the end Ikaros Kallitheas (which are very close to the promotion with this win as they remained at the second place and alone) succeeding the positive result with Emmanouilidis and Katoufas being the top scorers and performers for Coach Haritatos team.
Quarters: 11-22, 22-40, 42-56, 64-67.
Makedonikos: Bohoridis 4, Dalpas 19, Tanakidis 11, Kalthopoulis 3, Mitsakis 9, Kogias 2, Pappoulidis 4, Samourelis 12.
Ikaros Kallitheas: Georgiou 10, Delichristos 4, Emmanouilidis 17, Papadakis 2, Katranas 7, Karastamatis 6, Aggelopoulos 2, Katoufas 15, Koukouras 4.


Top scorers after 20 weeks:
Dimitris Prokos (192-G-74) of Aigio 441 points
Nick Psileas (200-F-80) of Lavrio 372 points
Panagiotis Tsolis (194-F-81) of Olympiakos Volou 347 points (in 19 games)
Panagiotis Nanis (195-F/G-80) of Olympiakos Volou 356 points (in 18 games)
Giorgos Tirlas (198-F-80) of Aigio 332 points
Nicos Papakonstantinou (182-G-84) of Ermis Lagkada 292 points
Konstantinos Pehlivanis (192-G-79) of Ikaroi Serron 286 points
Kostas Dinas (189-G/F-80) of Komotini 275 points
Giorgos Filiousis (198-G-77) of KAOD 275 points
Michalis Tanakidis (190-G-81) of Makedonikos 272 points
Sotiris Katoufas (206-F-79) of Ikaros Kallitheas 265 points
Tassos Baggi (187-G-75) of Goumenissa 257 points
Tasos Dimitriadis (201-C-82) of Ermis Lagkada 240 points
Nikos Michalos (192-G-77) of Near East 232 points
Theologos Vlavianos (196-G-86) of Milonas 235 points
Dionysios Giannakopoulos (195-G/F-82) of Lavrio 219 points
Mihalis Ifantis (204-F-72) of Alimos 219 points
Nikos Moisiadis (180-G-80) of Anagennisi Floga 216 points
Nikos Kritsalos (192-G-77) of Doukas 215 points
Dimitris Karatzios (202-F-78) of Doukas 186 points (in 18 games)



*****************************************************
GUATEMALA

Start of Liga Metropolitana delayed -by Gianni Pascucci
The 2008 edition of Liga Metropolitana did not start last weekend as it had been announced. The reason of the delay were some problems with the owners/authorities of 'Gimnasio de la Universidad Popular U.P.', where games have been held for more than 20 years. A financial agreement for the use of this facility is yet to be reached between both parties. In this case, the league should start the upcoming wekend...

Martinez joins SAT -by Gianni Pascucci
SAT-Cybertech will have another import player for Liga Centroamericana: the team announced the signing of well-known Henry Martinez (186-G/F-75, agency: Interperformances) from Costa Rica. The team roster will also be completed by veteran players Thomas Gillespie (204-F/C-74, college: Regis) and Jose Luis Lopez (186-G/F-77). Thanks to these new additions, the Guatemalan team hopes to advance till the Final Four of the competition.
with the help of Victor Padilla

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

Latest FEB Results: -by Sanders Jackson


Results March 1, 2008:

Current FEB leader MyGuide Amsterdam continue to let the good times roll, keeping the momentum going heading into Tuesday's Dutch Cup showdown wih title contender West-Brabant Giants, winning over defending Dutch champion Eiffel Towers 82-69.

leading scorers MyGuide:

Tamien Trent (183-G-82, agency: Strategic Sports, college: Fairleigh Dickinson) 24 pts.

Avis Wyatt (211-F/C-84, agency: Elfus-Siegel Management (ESM), college: Virginia St.) 19 pts.


leading scorers Eiffel Towers:

Damone Brown (204-F-79, college: Syracuse) 14 pts.

Dean Oliver (180-G-78, college: Iowa) 14 pts.


In Landstede on Saturday night, Landstede Basketball remains one of the hottest teams in the FEB, winning its 4th straight and last even of nine, with white-hot Darnell Wilson (198-F-85, college: Canisius) leading the way, with Landstede winning over ZZ Leiden 91-88.


leading scorers Landstede:

Wilson 32 pts., 5 steals

Robby Bostain (191-G/F-84, agency: Sports Plus International, college: Furman) 24 pts.


leading scorer ZZ Leiden:

Nick Curtis (202-F-83, agency: Court Side, college: USC) 25 pts., 12 rebounds


In the Horstacker on Saturday night, Matrixx Magixx nearly doubled the score on Den Helder Seals, shooting a whopping 86% FG, blowing their doors off with a 130-75 blowout win.


leading scorers Matrixx Magixx:

Alhaji Mohammed (192-G-81, agency: Beo Basket, college: Louisville) 34 pts. (14 of 15 FG)

Chris Copeland (203-F-84, agency: 540 Sports, college: Colorado) 23 pts.

Tyler Smith (203-F-80, agency: Players Group, college: Penn St.) 22 pts.


leading scorer Den Helder Seals:

J.R. Duffey (201-F/G-84, agency: Court Side, college: Niagara) 20 pts.


In the Topsportcentrum on Saturday night, Rotterdam Challengers took over 5th place in the FEB standings from Hanzevast Capitals, with a good 1st quarter start a key ingredient, shooting 62.5% FG and dominating the glass (47-28 difference) in the process, cruising to a 98-78 win.


leading scorers Rotterdam Challengers:

Frank Young (196-F-84, agency: Pro One Sports, college: W.Virginia) 20 pts.

Charles Richardson (175-G-84, agency: R.H.Consultancy, college: Nebraska) 17 pts.

Chaz Twan Briggs (201-F-80, college: W.Virginia) 15 pts., 15 rebounds


leading scorer Hanzevast Capitals:

Rogier Jansen (188-G-84, agency: Court Side) 18 pts.


In Weert on Saturday night, Aris Friesland keeps Upstairs Weert heading downstairs in the FEB standings, winning by the score of 84-79.


leading scorers Aris Friesland:

Jesse Kimbrough (183-G-82, college: Jacksonville) 20 pts.

Rein Van der Kamp (202-F-79, agency: R.H.Consultancy) 17 pts.

Dillion Sneed (203-C-84, agency: Court Side, college: E.Tenn.St.) 14 pts., 14 rebounds


leading scorer Upstairs Weert:

Trey McDowell (188-G-85, college: Louisiana Tech) 27 pts.


*Due to the recent passing away of my mother in the United States, I was unable to update the results on time. My apologies for this.



PromotieDivisie Scores: Catch Up Time for teams... -by Terry Cooper
It's catch up time for most clubs in the PromotieDivisie as teams play make up games to balance out the standings in the league. Some teams took adavantage of make up week as they sealed key victories to stay in the hunt for the final four. MSV is close to sealing its ticket to the final four as well as MyGuide2. Several other teams are still in the hunt so stay tuned because it getting down to the wire.

MyGuide2 - Orca's 81-58
Pigeons - Initial High Five 62-90
VBC Akrides - Punch 84-69
Landstede2 - BV Rooi 89-55
De Groene Uilen - EBBC2 70-83


Punch - MyGuide2 64-62
Orca's - De Groene Uilen 58-73
Initial High Five - Landstede2 72-58
BV Rooi - Cangeroes 69-66
Leiden2 - Pigeons 102-68

*****************************************************
IBL

Keyes' Explosion blast record -by Eurobasket
Kyle Keyes (6'2''-G-78, college: Montana) debuted with a 'BOOM' for the Snohomish County Explosion on March 1st. Keyes dropped 22 points with 4 assists and 3 steals from the PG spot as he helped the Explosion set the IBL scoring record with a shellacking of the USA All-Stars as they doubled them up, 169-85. Keyes shot a blistering 10 of 14 from the field while going 2 for 2 from downtown. Keyes former high-school teammate and UW star Donald Watts (6'4''-F/G-77, agency: Court Side, college: Washington) led all scorers with 26 points going 11-20 from the floor. Everyone got in on the action as all players scored for the Explosion who had 9 players in double figures. Terrance King (6'5''-F-73, college: Louisiana Coll.) had 21 points and 8 rebounds for the All-Stars.
Keyes has signed or played with every notable professional league in the USA including the NBDL, CBA, ABA, XBA/MBA and now the IBL with the Explosion. After arguably being the best point guard in the ABA in 06'-07' (while averaging 21pts 10.5ast. 3.1stls a game) Keyes was invited to try out with the San Antonio Spurs in the summer of 07'.
The Explosion won the Western Division title last year. With the addition of potential NBA Point Guard, Kyle Keyes, the Explosion have their eyes set on an IBL championship in 08'.

*****************************************************
INDONESIA

The Grand Final of KOBATAMA 2008 -by Ronald Purba

2005 Kobatama Champions, PIMNAD Nangroe Aceh Darussalam, is heading to the grand final of Kobatama 2007/2008 after beat Halim Kediri 64-58.
The victory over Halim Kediri put this team on the top of the standing board with two wins and a lost.

A Mild IBL All Star 2008 is Ready to Rock Palembang
A Mild IBL All Star 2008 will be held in Palembang, the city that famous with its traditional food called empek-empek.
The city is expecting the actions of pro basketball players from the league.
The players which are chosen by the fans from around Indonesia with the voting system are ready to show their skills and entertain the crowd.
The game itself will be held at Gedung Basket Indoor Kampus Palembang.

Who would miss the crossover dribble from Kelly Purwanto (-G) (Garuda Bandung) or slam dunk from Ronny Gunawan (SM Britama Jakarta)?

PLAYER ROSTER FOR ALL-STAR 2008
Red Team
Coach: Abdurahman Padang (XL Aspac Jakarta)
Manager: Tjetjep Firmansyah (XL Aspac Jakarta)
Starter: Kelly Purwanto (Garuda Bandung/PG), Mario Wuysang (177-G-79) (XL Aspac/PG), Denny Sumargo (Garuda Bandung/SG), Andrie Ekayana (XL Aspac/SF), Antonius Joko Hendratmo (XL Aspac/PF).
Bench: Ponsianus Nyoman Indrawan (Bima Sakti/C), M. Thoyib Isman (XL Aspac/C), Andre Tiara (Garuda Bandung/PF), Andi Batam Poedjakusuma (XL Aspac/SF), Mohammad Herdian (Kalila Jakarta/PG).
White Team
Coach: Fictor G. Roring (SM Britama)
Manager: Dwui Eriano (SM Britama)
Starter: Ronny Gunawan (SM Britama/C), I Made 'Lolik' Sudiadnyana (Bhinneka Solo/PF), Agustinus Indra Jaya (CLS Knights Surabaya/PF), Faisal J Achmad (SM Britama/PG), dan Rachmad Febri Utomo (Bhinneka Solo/SG).
Bench: Youbel Sondakh (SM Britama/SF), Max Yanto (IM Makassar/C), Immanuel B Kellen (Citra Satria Pontianak/PG), Amin Prihantono (SM Britama/SG), Wellyanson Situmorang (SM Britama/PF).



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

Irish abroad: Jim Moran's team lost again -by Mariano Galindo
After two consecutives defeats, Kalise Gran Canaria remains far to the play off's positions. Last weekend, the team which coaches Salva Maldonado lost a good opportunity to climb along the classification. Polaris World Murcia played a serious match and got a very important triumph (80-71) for its challenge, which is to continue in ACB the next season. Irish man Jim Moran (200-F/G-79, college: William & Mary) scored six points, caught five rebounds and made four personals fouls. Murcia's player Federico Kammerichs (203-F-80) was the MVP with eigthteen points and eleven rebounds in adittion to two steals.

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

Lega2 - Last market news -by Gabriele Fioretti
Caserta announced to have inked the american guard, born in Puerto Rico, Guillermo Diaz (188-G-85, college: Miami, FL), former Miami University and 52th pick on the Clippers in the 2006 NBA Draft. He comes from the Anaheim Arsenal (NBDL). Also Veroli introduced to the media the new point guard Guido Meini (188-G-79), former point guard of Pavia. Also Pavia, after leaving of Guido Meini and Heinrich (to Spain) and welcome Levin and Bagnoli, is still looking for another bigman but the new player can arrive from any league except Legadue.

A new name for Biella -by Gianni Pascucci
After having parted ways with Troy Bell (186-G-80, college: Boston Coll.), Angelico Biella should announce soon the signing of Keith Langford (193-G/F-83, college: Kansas), who has agreed to leave the D-League (where he was averaging 24.6 ppg, 6,0 rpg and 3.8 apg) to play in Italian Serie A. Langford is not a new name for Italy, having also played well last season in Vanoli Soresina, Lega 2.

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

New League Season -by Elvis Dickson
The 2007/2008 league season in Ivory Coast started last week and the federation has promised a better organisation this season,
with the introduction of some new clubs into both the male and female categories.
Although the federation is yet to secure a major sponsor for the league, It has however, promised a better league season this year.

Towards the end of last year, the federation introduced a website www.fibb.ci to better faciliate information sharing and overall
image making for the federation. The present board lead by Pastor Kore Moise is working very hard to secure sponsorship for the league and
also have a better organization.

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

McFarlane named to All-AMC North Division Team -by Leonard Whyte
Notre Dame, OH (3-1-2008) - Sophomore Center Karim McFarlane was named to the All- American Mideast Conference (AMC) North Division team. McFarlane, who averaged 12.4 points and 8.3 rebounds during the season, helped lead NDC to its first-ever Division Championship before bowing out in the qualifying tournament last week. Overall, five Notre Dame players received post-season honors. The list includes Player of the Year - Jerome Pierce.

Tulsa routs Marshall as Jordan sets new record -by Leonard Whyte
Tulsa, OK (3-1-2008) - Sophomore center Jerome Jordan blocked seven shots, bringing his total to 92 this season, surpassing the school record formerly held by Michael Ruffin and Kevin Johnson as Tulsa routed Marshall University 89-64 over the weekend in a Conference USA encounter. Jordan was also perfect from the field, going 4-of-4, and also pulled down eight rebounds. This was sweet revenge for Tulsa who lost in overtime when both teams met earlier this season.

Cedarville advances to conference championship game -by Leonard Whyte
Cedarville, OH (3-1-2008) - NAIA Division II No. 18 Cedarville University knocked out Ohio Dominican University, 81-67, in the American Mideast Conference (AMC) Tournament semifinals last night to advance championship game tonight where they will face #1 seed Malone. The winner receives an automatic berth to the NAIA Division II National Tournament. The Jamaican trio of Ricardo Alliman, Daniel Rose, and Christopher Walker combined for 18 points and 16 rebounds for Cedarville who are 21-7 overall.

*****************************************************
JORDAN

Najjar & Abbas with Zain in WABA ! -by Mohammed Malas
According to sources inside the club, Zain baskebtall team will have the services of ASU Sports Club duo NT player Islam Abbas (201-C-80) and the shooting guard Louai Najjar (192-G/F-80) for West Asian Clubs Championship (WABA) which will be held in Iran from 9th until the 14th of March.

Both players were part of ASU's success in their 1st year in Division One league and helped to gain a place in Excellent League next season, They played also with the team in Jordan Cup but they were out from quarter finals....

*****************************************************
KOSOVO

BC" Eurosporti" registered ex- palyers of BC" As Prishtina" -by Edona Shabani
BC' Eurosporti' from Prishtina, member of first league registered in their team these ex-players of 'As Prishtina' , which has terminated its participation in the Super League competition: Sabedin Ebibi, Genti Zeka, Betim Bajqinovci, Blerim Dragusha, Hekuran Binxhia, Blend Batalli, Islam Sylejmani, Kujtim Lepaja, Lavdim Lepaja, Yll Nikqi, Fisnik Juniku, Bujar Ismajli, Valon Behrami and Valmir Behrami.


According to the Registering Regulation and players' transaction, they all have the right to play in the match for Kosova Cup between Peja and Eurosporti. This game will take place on Thursday, March 6, 2008 on 8:00 pm.

Junior players Fisnik Juniku, Valon Behrami and Valmir Bajrami have double registration with BC' Prishtina Probasket' and have the right to activate for the corresponding category of 'Prishtina Probasket'

Players Betim Bajqinovci, Sabedin Ebibi, Ylli Nikqi and Blend Batalli to register for BC' Eurosport' must pay the fee for the sentences they had while playing for BC' As Prishtina'


Source: www.basketbolli.com


BC" Eurosporti" registered ex- palyers of BC" As Prishtina" -by Edona Shabani
BC' Eurosporti' from Prishtina, member of first league registered in their team these ex-players of 'As Prishtina' , which has terminated its participation in the Super League competition: Sabedin Ebibi, Genti Zeka, Betim Bajqinovci, Blerim Dragusha, Hekuran Binxhia, Blend Batalli, Islam Sylejmani, Kujtim Lepaja, Lavdim Lepaja, Yll Nikqi, Fisnik Juniku, Bujar Ismajli, Valon Behrami and Valmir Behrami.


According to the Registering Regulation and players' transaction, they all have the right to play in the match for Kosova Cup between Peja and Eurosporti. This game will take place on Thursday, March 6, 2008 on 8:00 pm.

Junior players Fisnik Juniku, Valon Behrami and Valmir Bajrami have double registration with BC' Prishtina Probasket' and have the right to activate for the corresponding category of 'Prishtina Probasket'

Players Betim Bajqinovci, Sabedin Ebibi, Ylli Nikqi and Blend Batalli to register for BC' Eurosport' must pay the fee for the sentences they had while playing for BC' As Prishtina'


Source: www.basketbolli.com

*****************************************************
LIGA CENTROAMERICANA

Martinez joins SAT -by Gianni Pascucci
SAT-Cybertech will have another import player for Liga Centroamericana: the team announced the signing of well-known Henry Martinez (186-G/F-75, agency: Interperformances) from Costa Rica. The team roster will also be completed by veteran players Thomas Gillespie (204-F/C-74, college: Regis) and Jose Luis Lopez (186-G/F-77). Thanks to these new additions, the Guatemalan team hopes to advance till the Final Four of the competition.
with the help of Victor Padilla

*****************************************************
LIGA SUDAMERIC.

Tachira and Cocodrilos to face Corrientes and Universo -by Francisco Vega
Barquisimeto, Venezuela.- Deportivo Tachira of Venezuela, the new franchise that finished in the second place of Liga Sudamericana's Group C in Argentina, will face Regatas Corrientes of Argentina yet again in the Quarter Finals round, while Cocodrilos de Caracas, the team finished at the top of Group A as hosts, will also face a team they already played against, Universo BRB of Brazil.

Tachira lost in the final matchday of Group C against Corrientes, 88-60, thus finishing in second place. Sol de America, of Paraguay, surprised Malvin of Uruguay to secure third place and a place in the playoffs. Coach Carlos Gil and his assistant, Jesus Cordobes , enjoyed a solid offense performance by Quincy Davis (206-F/C-83), Johnell Smith (186-G-80), Carlos Morris (194-F-75), Edgar Lugo (189-G-82) and Darwin Ramirez (191-F-82).

Meanwhile, Cocodrilos passed through undefeated despites facing tough teams like Boca Juniors (Argentina), Universo BRB (Brazil) and Regatas Lima (Peru). Nestor Salazar was supported by main weapons like Victor David Diaz (195-F-68), Kelley McClure (186-G-74), Kevin Freeman (201-F-78) and Luis Bethelmi (200-C-86), but also enjoyed with great outings off the bench by Kevin Palacios (203-F/C-84) and Henry Paez (184-G-70).

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

Market news -by Evaldas Ceilytkas

After Lithuanian Basketball League (LKL) signing deadline were are recap of the signings in last weeks.

Lietuvos Rytas Vilnius took back youngsters Simas Buterlevicius (200-F-89) and Lukas Brazdauskis (203-F-88) from loan to KM-SSK-Perlas Vilnius (NKL).
Alytus signed youn guard from Alytus basketball school Edvinas Laukevicius (193-G-89).
Sakalai Vilnius added promising point guard P.Paulius Ivanauskas (194-G-87). This season he played in Puntukas Jarimpeksas Anyksciai (NKL).
Panevezys Techasas parted ways with Adam Schaper (206-F/C-83, agency: Naiditch Entertainment, college: Iowa St.) because of bad performance.

Neptunas Klaipeda point guard Andrius Mazutis (179-G-81) gone to ASK Riga instead of him team signed experienced guard Saulius Raziulis (185-G-76) from Meresta Pakruojis.



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

Halcones Roll Past Soles in Game 1 -by Justin Brink
It wasn't even close in game one of the LNBP Finals last night. In front of their home fans and a packed 'oooozzbee' (La USBI, Xalapa's home arena), the Halcones of Xalapa made a statement blowing out the defending LNBP Champion Mexicali Soles 102-70 to take a 1-0 lead in the best of 7 Championship series.The Soles hung around until the fourth quarter when the Halcones erupted offensively jumping out to a 25 point lead. Sam Bowie (198-F/G-75, college: SE Louisiana) paced the Halcone offense from the outside and inside with 29 points, followed by Jermaine Watson (193-G-81, college: Boston Coll.)'s 19 and Victor Avila (209-C-77, college: Oklahoma)'s 12. Gustavo Ayon (211-F/C-85, college: San Jose St.) had 12 boards off the bench for Xalapa. For the Soles, Greg Lewis (198-F-78, college: Winthrop) was the high man with 20. Game two is tonight at 8:00 p.m. Xalapa time. Don't count the Soles out just yet. You haven't, have you? Sure Llamas was missing in action and Dejuan Wheat must have been a bit rusty due to recent injury, so look for the 'Suns' to bounce back.

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

MNT1B : BC Budva win in new derby , Filip Goranovic MVP of season in MNT1B -by Dragan Scepanovic
Basketball Club Budva Mega Promet win in new derby game in MNT1B Division (17 Round ) against BC Teodo Tivat 87-82.After 18 yerar of play last game play center of BC Budva Ivanovic Ivan.Award for first place in season 2007-2008 give to capiten of BC Budva Drazen Nikic , Mr. Miomir Mugosa and Mr. Zoran Vujicic from Basketball Federation of Montenegro.In same way Filip Goranovic (208-F/C-85) promoted to MVP of MNT1B Division for season 2007-2008.Filip Goranovic have satistic in season 2007-2008 : 19.8 points per game and 10 rebounds per game

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

Gilbert Arenas is cleared to practice with the Wizards -by Eurobasket News
The Washington Wizards leader Gilbert Arenas (6'3''-G-82, college: Arizona) was given a go by the team's doctors to start practicing with the squad. He missed the major part of the season with a knee injury and was doubtful for the reminder of the season. But the sings tell that the 25-year-old guard can possibly be in action in playoffs if Washington makes it there. Gilbert Arenas had a surgery on his knee last April and seemed to cure it well as he started the current season at the starting lineup for Washington. But after 8 games played the guard was forced to take two more surgeries on his knee. The Wizards are playing without Gilbert Arenas and Caron Butler (6'7''-F-80, college: Connecticut), who has torn labrum in his hip and is also doubtful for the regular season reminder. Washington are recently at 29-30 record and occupy the 6th spot in the East.
Meanwhile Ming Yao (7'5''-C-80) underwent a surgery to repair a stress fracture in his left foot yesterday. This was a season-ending injury for Chinese superstar centre but the doctors are pretty optimistic about Ming Yao playing at the Beijing Olympics.
Sam Cassell (6'3''-G-69, college: Florida St.) is about to sign with the Boston Celtics in the nearest time. He is expected to arrive to Boston today to sign all the necessary papers to become a Celtic. A veteran guard was waived by the LA Clippers a couple of days ago and was reported to have a strong interest in singing with the Boston Celtics. The Celtics management did not confirm the possible deal officially yet. However if it happens Sam Cassell can play for the Celtics as soon as Wednesday when Boston face their arch-rivals Detroit. Sam Cassell averages 12.8 points, 4.7 assists and 2.8 rebounds per game in the season. The Boston Celtics starting point guard Rajon Rondo also favored the idea of adding Sam Cassell to the roster despite the possibility of some minutes being cut for him.
The Cleveland Cavalier meanwhile signed forward Kaniel Dickens (6'8''-F-78, agency: Priority Sports, college: Idaho) and guard Billy Thomas (6'5''-G-75, college: Kansas) to 10-day contracts.

*****************************************************
NCAA2

Pitt - Johnstown wins WVIAC Championship -by Eurobasket
#s#
#e#6


Eargle


Gilliam


Banal


Hall


Helton

Regular Season Standings
1. Pitt-Johnstown 161.5 17-3 22-7
2. Alders.-Broad. 157 17-3 25-6
3. W.Virginia St. 143.5 16-4 20-10
4. W.Liberty St. 137.5 15-5 23-6
5. Charleston Univ. 115.5 12-8 19-10
6. Fairmont St. 109.5 12-8 19-10
7. Seton Hill 100.5 11-9 12-15
8. Shepherd 82.5 9-11 16-13
9. Davis & Elkins 80 9-11 13-15
10. Concord 77 9-11 15-14
11. W.Virg.Wesl. 63.5 8-12 10-18
12. Wheeling Jesuit 61 8-12 13-15
13. Glenville St. 61 7-13 9-19
14. Ohio Valley 46.5 6-14 7-21
15. Salem Intern. 20.5 2-18 4-24
16. Bluefield St. 17 2-18 2-26

Tournament Final: Alderson-Broaddus - Pitt Johnstown 71-64
Tournament Semifinals:
Alderson-Broaddus - West Virginia State 80-68
Pitt Johnstown - West Liberty State 82-72

All-WVIAC Tournament MVP: Terrell Eargle (6'4''-G) of Alderson-Broaddus

WVIAC All-Tournament Team:
Chris Banal (6'5''-F) (West Liberty State)
Terrell Eargle (Alderson-Broaddus)
Chris Gilliam (6'7''-F) (Pitt Johnstown)
Stan Hall (6'3''-G) (Alderson-Broaddus)
James Helton (6'6''-F) (West Virginia State)
Thad McFadden (6'2''-G-87) (Fairmont State)
Dannie Parker (6'4''-F) (Concord)
William Sharpe (5'10''-G) (Pitt Johnstown)
Marcus Tullis (6'6''-F) (Pitt Johnstown)
Jimmy Williams (6'5''-F) (Alderson-Broaddus)


All-WVIAC 1st Team
Chris Banal (West Liberty State)
Terrell Eargle (Alderson-Broaddus)
Chris Gilliam (Pitt Johnstown)
Stan Hall (Alderson-Broaddus)
James Helton (West Virginia State)
Jelani Jackson (6'4''-F) (Davis & Elkins)
Thad McFadden (Fairmont State)
Dannie Parker (Concord)
Robert Strickland (6'7''-F) (Charleston)


All-WVIAC 2nd Team
Dan Binggeli (6'2''-G) (West Liberty State)
Marquis Brooks (6'3''-G) (Charleston)
Ben Howlett (6'0''-G) (West Liberty State)
Chris Leborious (6'8''-C) (Ohio Valley)
Ronnie Means (6'0''-G-86) (Fairmont State)
Wade Pidock (6'8''-F) (West Virginia State)
Jordan Thomas (6'1''-G) (Seton Hill)
Marcus Tullis (Pitt Johnstown)

All-WVIAC Honorable Mention
Cody Boone (6'9''-F/C) (Seton Hill)
Samario Clancy (6'3''-F) (Alderson-Broaddus)
Quinton Davis (6'3''-G) (Pitt Johnstown)
Curtis Dorsey (6'4''-F) (Salem International)
Tryvan Leech (6'5''-F) (Glenville State)
Danny Manuel (5'10''-G) (Davis & Elkins)
Brett Rector (6'2''-G) (Davis & Elkins)
Jimmy Williams (Alderson-Broaddus)


WVIAC All-Freshman Team
Danny Branch (6'4''-G) (Pitt Johnstown)
Justin Caldwell (6'2''-G) (West Virginia Wesleyan)
Adam McFerran (6'4''-G/F) (Wheeling Jesuit)
Corey Pelle (5'11''-G) (West Liberty State)
Liki Turner (6'6''-F) (Shepherd)


All-WVIAC Player of the Year: Chris Gilliam (Pitt Johnstown)
All-WVIAC Freshman of the Year: Liki Turner (Shepherd)
All-WVIAC Coach of the Year: Bob Rukavina (Pitt Johnstown)



CIAA 2007-08 Season Summary -by Eurobasket
#s#
#e#6


Rainey


Hilliard


Harris


Johnson


Gebru

Regular Season Standings
Eastern Division
1. Virginia Union 7-1 0.875 14-4 0.778 22-7 0.759
2. Elizabeth City 5-3 0.625 13-5 0.722 20-7 0.741
3. Bowie St. 5-3 0.625 13-5 0.722 21-8 0.724
4. Virginia St. 3-5 0.375 8-10 0.444 11-18 0.379
5. St.Paul's 0-8 0.000 3-15 0.167 8-17 0.320
Western Division
1. Johnson C. Smith 6-2 0.750 11-7 0.611 21-9 0.700
2. St.Augustine 5-3 0.625 11-7 0.611 16-10 0.615
3. Fayetteville 5-3 0.625 8-10 0.444 14-15 0.483
4. Livingstone 3-5 0.375 8-10 0.444 14-14 0.500
5. Shaw 1-7 0.125 1-17 0.056 5-23 0.179


Tournament Final: Johnson C. Smith - Fayetteville