EUROBASKET NEWS REPORT - 3/8/2008

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Men News

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ABA

It's playoff time in the ABA -by Gianni Pascucci
The American Basketball Association (ABA) confirmed yesterday that the ABA Championship 'Final 8' will be played in Quebec, Canada from March 27th thru March 30th. Five teams will receive automatic byes into the ABA Final 8. These teams receiving byes are: the titleholders Vermont Frost Heaves, the Manchester Millrats, the San Diego Wildcats, the Texas Tycoons and the Final 8 host team Quebec City Kebekwa. The remaining three spots will be divided into: one spot for the Western teams, one for the North-Eastern teams and another one for the Southern teams. At the Western side, San Francisco will meet Orange County, Maywood will meet Long Beach, and the winners will meet for the final spot. In the North-East, Jersey will meet Boston, Montreal will meet Westchester, the two winners will play themselves and then play Halifax for the final spot. In the South, the West Texas Whirlwind will travel to Macon to meet the Georgia Gwizzlies in the first round with the winner to meet the Atlanta Vision on Sunday, March 16th. As you can see, Mr. Newman has collected all the ABA teams yet breathing, even if no one can say if all these teams will really go on the court (we expect some withdraws...). The main absence, however, is the one of the Chinese team Beijing Aoshen Olympians, that decided not to particpate to the ABA playoff despite having collected one of the best reg.season records, playing all its games in Singapore. According with Mr. Mewman statements, it seems that two of their main players are on the Chinese National Team preparing for the Summer Olympics and three others are at the Chinese National Team camp tryouts.

Standings
ABA Standings
Blue Conference
Central Div.
1. Manchester 23-10
2. Westchester P. 8-6
3. Boston B. 8-16
North Div.
1. Jersey Expr. 7-10
2. Delaware 1-7
Northeast Div.
1. Vermont FH 26-4
2. Quebec City 11-16
3. Montreal R. 8-17
4. Halifax R. 8-18
South Div.
1. Atlanta V. 6-2
2. Bahama PS 1-5
3. Georgia G. 1-9
Red Conference
Northwest Div.
1. Beijing O. 19-1
2. S.Francisco R. 5-10
3. Maywood B. 3-23
South Div.
1. Texas T. 10-1
2. W.Texas W. 3-6
3. Houston T. 3-8
Southwest Div.
1. San Diego W 21-7
2. OC Gladiators 14-12
3. L.Beach B. 10-7


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ARAB CL. CHAMPS

Standings
Arab Club Championships Standings
Group 1
1. Qatar 0-0
2. An Nasr 0-0
3. Zain 0-0
4. Tilal 0-0
Group 2
1. De La Salle 0-0
2. FUS 0-0
3. Wehda 0-0
4. Al Ittihad 0-0
Group 3
1. Al Riyadi 0-0
2. Orthodox 0-0
3. Al Kahraba 0-0
4. Al Manama 0-0
Group 4
1. As Seeb 0-0
2. Al Kuwait 0-0
3. Sagesse 0-0
4. Al Ittihad 0-0


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AUSTRALIA

Melbourne levels Final series -by Eurobasket News
Melbourne - Sydney 104:93

The Tigers returned home and put the Grand Final series on a par with an impressive home win. The Melbourne Tigers needed some adjustment during the game to came from behind and upset the Kings at the State Netball and Hockey Centre. Sean Lampley and David Barlow ignited the game's ardour early on and put the hosts up 10:5. But a strong performance from the Kings bench players allowed Sydney to stay in it. Russell Hinder and Dontaye Draper helped Sydney's reserves outscore their counterparts 11:0 in the opening frame and the visitors accumulated a 35:29 advantage after 12 minutes of action. Sean Lampley traded baskets with Glen Saville at the start of the second period. Sean Lampley was the main figure for the Tigers in the second term and his efforts helped the hosts to cut the deficit to just a single point at the interval 56:57. The beginning of the second half was highlighted by consecutive trebles from David Barlow and Melbourne finally got their noses in front. Dontaye Draper refused to surrender and dropped 10 straight Sydney's points to maintain the pressure. Melbourne withstood all the efforts to remain ahead at 80:79 at the final intermission. The game remained extra close with neither team able to clear off. But the Tigers got their chance. Ian Crosswhite was called for a technical foul and Chris Anstey punished the visitors from charity stripe. Sean Lampley then completed a three-point play and the initiative shifted to the home side. Shortly after the Tigers stretched the lead to 7 points and never looked back afterwards. David Barlow scored 24 points to pace the hosts. Sean Lampley and Chris Anstey had 21 points apiece in a winning effort. Dontaye Draper answered with 17 points, while Isiah Victor had 14 points in a loss. Game 3 is scheduled for Sunday in Sydney.

Melbourne: David Barlow 24, Sean Lampley 21, Chris Anstey 21+9 boards
Sydney: Dontaye Draper 17, Isiah Victor 14, Mark Worthington 13


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BOSNIA

Sinanovic shines in loss of Cologne -by Nedzad Kladusak
Nedzad Sinanovic (221-C-83), is one of Bosnia-Herzegovinas most promising players but so far he didn t play for the NT despite being called several times.
This time it seems that he might finally puts the blue-yellow jersey. After spending most of the time on the bench Sasa Obradovic and particularly
his assistant coach Drasko Prodanovic give Sinanovic more and more playtime.
During the week Cologne faced their local rivals from Leverkusen. In a 88-77 loss Sinanovic scored 21 points and grabbed 9 rebs in only 27 minutes.
It will be interesting whether the bosnian giant will be part of the squad that will try to win the EC qualifier group with UK, Czech Republic and Israel.

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BRIT.V.ISLANDS

Gearing Up For Inter-Secondary Tourney -by David Edole

By Dean Greenaway

TORTOLA—Defending champions BVI High School—now the Elmore Stoutt High School—is looking for a challenge as they defend their title in the second inter-secondary schools basketball tournament scheduled for Mar 8-10 at the Multipurpose Sports Complex in Road Town.

'As captain of the team, I think we have been developing really well and we look forward to the challenges,' said Elmore Stoutt High School captain Leslie Smith. 'Last year it wasn't that challenging. We only had challenges from our Jr. team, so we are hoping that the other schools will bring better and stronger teams, so that we can make it a good tournament. We are looking forward to it.'

The tournament, organized by the BVI High School class of 1998, in conjunction with the Dept. of Youth Affairs and Sports, will open at 6 p.m. on March 8 and continues on Mar 9 at 6 p.m. and begins on Mar 10 at 12:30 p.m., to crown the champions. 'Last year the tournament was very successful in the fact that the young people thoroughly enjoyed themselves and they requested having it again,' noted event coordinator Jason Rubaine. 'That's why we are doing it again this year.'

The tournament has attracted 10 teams. The Bregado Flax Secondary Division and Elmore Stoutt High School will each field junior, senior and female teams. Other participating schools are Cedar Secondary, BVI Technical and Vocational Institute; BVI Seventh-Day Adventist Secondary and St. George's Secondary.

BVI Basketball Federation president Guy 'The General' Malone said that he supports this initiative taken by the Class of 1998. 'One of the roles of the Federation is to work along with entities to build and grow basketball in the British Virgin Islands and we want to see sports getting back into the schools,' he said. 'Right now the BVI has a lot of young people with a love for the sport. A lot of them just play basketball but they need the exposure. FIBA is willing to work with the federation to build basketball in the BVI, but, we must start the grass roots programs as they help to meet some of the mandates that we agreed to with FIBA.'



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CAMEROON

Collegiate News -by Yann Tientcheu
Our countrymen competing at the highest collegiate level in the world have been up to all the challenges coming their way during the past ten days.
Parfait Bitee (188-G-85) continues his impressive senior year providing leadership from the point to Rhode Island University, which is going into the Atlantic 10 Tournament as a serious contender to the conference title. Bitee remains the third leading scorer of the Rams with 12pts and 5 Asts per game. The basketball genius of Yaounde had 11 points and 3Asts (following his 13pts, 3rbds and 3 Asts against George Washington on Feb. 27th) in the last victorious meeting of the RIU (March 1st) against Lasalle University of Yves Mekongo Mballa (2m-F). Joe Mbang (198-F-86, college:RIU) who is averaging 7pts and 4.3rbds coming off the bench for RIU had 5pts and 2 rbds that night. Mekongo Mballa, who has been an indispensable asset for Lasalle this year had 2pts and 7rbds. At the end of the game, the scoreboard indicated 91-85 at the dismay of Lasalle.
Brice Nengsu (193-G-83, college: Angelo State University) who has been giving a boost to his basketball career as a member of the Angelo State University Men's basketball program had 14pts and 7rbds in a 75-85 loss of ASU to Central Oklahoma in march 5th. Nengsu is currently averaging 11pts and 6rbds per game.
Luc Richard Luc Richard Mbah a Moute (200-G/F-88)'s production to the UCLA Bruins men's basketball program is currently measured up to 9pts and 5.2rbds per game (2nd best rebounder of the Bruins). Luc Richard Mbah a Moute had 9pts and 2rbds in the latest night out for UCLA. Arizona University lost on the final score of 66-68. Alfred Aboya, who has been a dependable player and a tremendous defensive help for the Bruins is averaging 17.4mns a game scoring 3.4pts and grabbing 2.4rbds at the occasion. The Bruins are presently 23 and 3.

Moliva Gaston, the Cameroonian senior of Richmond University, is averaging 4.5pts and 3.7rbds for the Spiders. He had 8pts and 3pts in a 58-53 win against Fordham on march5th.

Germain Bendengue of Dalhousie University in Canada, recorded a double-double on February 23rd, scoring 15pts and adding 12 rbds in a 86-76 win of Dalhousie Unversity against UNB. Bendengue is currently averaging 11.2pts and 6.2rbds per game
Gaston Moliva (201-F-85)

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CHINA

CBA Teams are having break -by Robert Wang
Helo All, CBA season just finished short time ago and all teams are taking their break now except national team are traing in Hai Na Province. So, there would be no any info. from teams currently. Sorry and thank you for you consideration.We will release the news as long as we heard something out later. Although I saw some players are shopping on the street or in the mall with their family but can't interview them since this is their rest time and hope they have fun now.

Yao Says Surgery a Success, Promises to Play in Olympics -by Arthur Volbert
According to the Associated Press, Yao Ming told his Chinese fans today that he plans to play in the Beijing Olympics.

In a letter published in Chinese-language newspapers, Yao assured fans that his operation Monday to repair a stress fracture in his left foot was successful and he'll be fit to play in August despite missing the rest of the NBA season.

``My injury has made many of you worried and you expressed your concern and sympathy in many ways,'' Yao wrote. ``You have always supported me and encouraged me at the lowest point of my career. And now I want to say thank you for your care and support.''

Yao promised a quick return, which his doctors have said is likely. He's expected to need four months to heal. If this is true he would be ready to play at the end of June or beginning of July, plenty of time to prepare for the start of the Olympic basketball tournament, scheduled to begin August 9.

``The surgery was very successful and I'll start physical recovery very soon,'' Yao wrote. ``I'll do whatever I can to overcome the difficulty and play for China in Olympics and be in my best form.''

CBA Info. -by Robert Wang


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CYPRUS

Another huge success for Proteas EKA AEL and Cypriot basketball! -by Alkis Spyrou

Today (Friday 7/03/08), FIBA Europe announced that Proteas EKA AEL will host the 2008 EuroCup Final Four in Limassol, Cyprus.
The event will take place between Friday 18th and Sunday 20th April in the 'Spyros Kyprianou Arena' and is another proof that Cyprus Basketball -and Proteas EKA AEL more specifically- are highly regarded in FIBA's Europe HQ in Munich.

Michael Loizidis, chairman of Proteas EKA AEL, estimated that the event will cost approximately 400-500,000 €. It should also be stressed that Proteas EKA AEL will also be hosting the EuroCup All Star game on 25th March, for the 4th straight year.

FIBA Europe President George Vassilakopoulos stated that 'Cyprus is a fast growing basketball country and we are very happy to be able to bring the Final Four to Limassol' and concluded by saying ' I'm sure it will be a great event both on the floor and off for fans and players alike.'
'Having hosted the EuroCup All Star game four straight years Proteas are perfectly suited to organize an event like this,' was the comment of FIBA Europe Secretary General Nar Zanolin.

The first semi-final on the Friday 18th April will see the hosts Vs Belgian Dexia Mons-Hainaut while the second semi-final will be between two Baltic sides: Tartu Rock from Estonia Vs Barons LMT from Latvia.



Keravnos Strovolou for the Greek A1 -by Chris Mammides

Eurobasket.com just received an official letter from the press office of Keravnos Strovolou club to the Cyprus Basketball Federation (For teh attention of the President of the federation Mr. Chrysostomou) signed by the president of the Strovolos Club, Mr. Paris Papaellinas which simply states the interest of Keravnos to play in the A1 Greek league. In an approxemate translation the letter states the following:

It is our duty to inform you about Keravnos Strovolou interest to participate in the Hellenic A1 League.

We have already did many contacts with various officers on behalf of both the Greek teams and ESAKE. The reply was always positive from all the parties.

We believe that we have all the necessary elements needed to participate in the A1 league. In few weeks time, Keravnos will arrange the necessary papers needed in order to sent everythign to the Federation.



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CZECH REP.

New head coach of the Czech National Team -by Ondra Simecek
As it was announced today on a press conference of Czech Basketball Federation, the head coach of the National Team of the Czech Republic will be Michal Jezdik . Jezdik was a headcoach of the NT from 2000 to 2005, so he is coming back after a break of three years. Jezdik is one of the biggest basketball experts in the Czech Republic. Most of his carreer he spent in Sparta as a player and a coach, he reached three champion titles with Nymburk and last season he was coaching Prostejov.

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DENMARK

Jarrett Howell nails 38 points for Svendborg's 19th win -by Eurobasket News
March 6th brought 4 games in Danish league to make some minor changes in the ladder. The game between BK Amager and Bakken Bears was the key one of the day and a bit surprisingly brought the victory for the hosts.
BK Amager celebrated 100:91 win over Bakken Bears to bring the guests the third loss in the league. BK Amager started offensively and went on a 32:22 lead after the first 10 minutes of the game. Bakken Bears used the experience to reduce the gap and trailed 4 points at the half. Another 26:28 in the third period brought interest for the final stanza. BK Amager looked very good in the encounter and deserved 24:17 margin in the last period to celebrate 100:91 victory. Matt Cooper (201-F-85, college: Le Moyne) led the winners with 22 points and 6 rebounds. Kristian Jakobsen (190-G/F-79) and Peter Johansen (204-F/C-80, agency: Arik Krayn Services) followed him with 19 as the latter managed to grab 14 rebounds. Jason Siggers top-scored for the losing side with 29 points.
In another games Svendborg took a road win over Aabyhoj 76:89. Jarrett Howell (188-G-84, agency: Worldwide Hoops, college: Texas Arlington) was unstoppable for the guests nailing 38 points. Thomas Skotting (193-F-82) ended up with 19 points for the hosts. Horsholm 79ers beat Sisu 83:72 as Duane James (198-F-83, college: Binghamton) provided 24 points. Team FOG Naestved overcame Horsens IC 112:91 with 28 points from Brandon Thomas (198-G/F-84, college: Massachusetts).

Standings - Basketligaen
Basketligaen Standings
1. Bakken 21-3
2. Svendborg 19-5
3. Amager BK 15-9
4. Horsholm 11-13
5. Randers 11-13
6. Horsens IC 10-14
7. Naestved 9-15
8. SISU 6-18
9. Aabyhoj 6-18


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D-LEAGUE

Kasib Powell Explodes for 46 as Skyforce Take Down Mad Ants -by Surujh Roopnarine
NBA D-League Co-Player of the Month for February, Kasib Powell (6'7''-F-81, college: Texas Tech) erupted for a career high 46 points in Sioux Falls' 115-109 victory over Ft. Wayne last night.
Powell (Who shared February's POM honors with Desmon Farmer of Rio Grande Valley) shot the lights out, connecting on 17-24 field goals, including an amazing 10-11 from behind the arc (91%)!
Sioux Falls came out blazing in the Allen County War Memorial Coliseum, lighting up the Mad Ants for 37 first quarter points. Ft. Wayne settled down and dug in on defense afterwards, but it was too little too late as Sioux Falls improved to 22-18 while Ft. Wayne drops to 13-22 and are down 5-3 in the season series. Three point shooting was the difference, as while both teams shot efficiently from three-point distance (55.2% SIF vs. 55.6 FTW), the Skyforce took 20 more three's than the Mad Ants and connected on 16 of 29 as opposed to 5 of 9 for the home team.
Earl Calloway (6'3''-G-83, agency: CAA Sports, college: Indiana) continued his strong play for Ft. Wayne, scoring a team high 27 points while dishing out a game high 11 assists.
SKYFORCE: Kasib Powell (46p+5rb), Chris Alexander (15p+14rb), David Bailey (19p+7rb+7as+7to), Carl Elliott (13p+9rb)
MAD ANTS: Earl Calloway (27p+5rb+11as), Roderick Wilmont (23p+6rb), Cheikh Samb (14p+12rb+6bs), James Peters (16p)

Standings
D-League Standings
Central Division
1. Sioux Falls S. 22-18
2. Dakota W. 21-16
3. Iowa E. 17-19
4. Ft.Wayne MA 13-22
Southwest Division
1. Austin T. 23-11
2. Colorado 14ers 22-14
3. Tulsa 66ers 20-15
4. Rio Grande VV 14-24
5. Albuquerque T. 13-21
West Division
1. Idaho S. 26-9
2. LA D-Fenders 23-11
3. Utah 18-17
4. Anaheim A. 13-23
5. Bakersfield J. 6-31


Stats Leaders
D-League Stats Leaders
Points Per Game
1.M. Almond, UTA 25.8
2.C.Powell, DAK 22.0
3.K.Powell, SIF 21.8
4.S. Banks, LAD 21.7
5.D. Farmer, RGV 21.2
Rebounds Per Game
1.R. Benson, DAK 12.0
2.C. Alexander, SIF 10.8
3.L. Allred, IDA 10.0
4.N. Fazekas, TUL 9.9
5.M. Sene, IDA 9.3
Assists Per Game
1.R. Livingston, IDA 11.1
2.A. Barrett, BAK 8.7
3.E. Gill, COL 8.0
4.R. Sessions, TUL 7.6
5.K. Kruger, UTA 7.1


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EUROLEAGUE

Top 16, Week 4 MVP: Lynn Greer, Olympiacos -by Eurobasket
One of the biggest comeback road wins in the Top 16 so far featured the best individual performance of the week, as well. Lynn Greer (186-G-79, college: Temple) of Olympiacos became the Week 4 MVP with a 37 performance index rating, most of which fueled the comeback that gave his team new life in the Top 16. Greer led a rally from 10 points behind in the fourth quarter as the Reds registered a huge 82-87 victory over Maccabi Elite in Tel Aviv on Thursday. He finished with 27 points on 5-for-8 two-point, 3-for-4 three-point and 8-for-8 free-throw shooting. He added 3 rebounds, 6 assists, 3 steals and 8 fouls drawn. Greer had also been the Week 1 MVP in the Top 16. Next, with a 33 index rating, came Milton Palacio (190-G-78, college: Colorado St.) of Partizan Igokea, who led his team to a similar comeback home win against Montepaschi Siena with 26 points on 7-for-9 two-point and 9-for-9 free throw shooting. He added 4 rebounds, an assist, 2 steals and 6 fouls drawn to amass a 33 index. Omer Asik (211-C-86) of Fenerbahce Ulker, Zoran Planinic (198-G-82) of Tau Ceramica, Ramunas Siskauskas (197-G-78) of CSKA Moscow followed with index ratings of 30 each. Planinic helped make his team the first Quarterfinal Playoffs qualifier with 16 points, 6 rebounds, 8 assists, 2 steals and 10 fouls drawn while playing all 40 minutes of Tau's tense home win against Lietuvos Rytas. Siskauskas paced CSKA's blowout 54-82 road win at Lottomatica Roma with 25 points while making 5 of 6 two-pointers, 3 of 3 triples and 6 of 7 free throws. Fenerbahce lost by a point at home to Aris TT Bank despite Asik's 13 points, 11 rebounds and 5 blocked shots.

Individual highs: Theo Papaloukas of CSKA ties Top 16 assists record
Greer was also the Top 16 Week 4 scorer with 27 points against Maccabi. He remains the best scorer overall in the round with 22.5 points per game. Asik led all rebounders and shot blockers in Week 4. He is the overall the blocks leader, too, with 4.25 per game. Meanwhile, Terence Morris (206-F-79, college: Maryland) of Maccabi is still the overall best rebounder on the Top 16, with an average of 10.3 per night. Theodoros Papaloukas (200-G-77, agency: Interperformances) dished as many as 12 assists in CSKA's massive road win in Rome, and in so doing tied the Top 16 single-game record. The only other 12-assist night in Top 16 history came on March 16, 2003 when Vrbica Stefanov (188-G-73, agency: Interperformances) of Ulker dished as many in a victory over Climamio Bologna. De Juan Collins (188-G-76, college: Tuskegee) of Zalgiris remains the Top 16 assists leader with 6.8 on average. Three players - Ibrahim Jaaber (188-G-84, college: Pennsylvania) of Lottomatica Roma, Pepe Sanchez (193-G-77, college: Temple) of AXA FC Barcelona and Scoonie Penn (178-G-77, college: Ohio St.) of Efes Pilsen - each collected 4 steals in their teams' respective losses against CSKA, Unicaja and Panathinaikos. Jaaber leads the steals list with 3.5 per game. Morris - 15 points, 10 rebounds - and Asik - 13 points, 11 rebounds - were the only players to register double-doubles this week.
Courtesy of Euroleague.net

Maccabi - Olympiakos 82 - 87 -by Kostas Papadopoulos
Olympiakos made last night the most impressive appearance since coach Panagiotis Giannakis took the leadership of the team and he kept his chances for the Top-8 of Euroleague alive. The Reds' win over Maccabi at Nokia Arena, at the second consecutive no tomorrow game, not only gave an additional perspective to the fans but also certified that the team is on an ongoing situation to the top.
Maccabi was behind at the score only at the first three minutes of the game (1-7) but then, after making a 10-0 serie, with consecutive successive 3-point shots from David Bluthenthal (201-F-80, college: USC), he didn't lose this head. It even led by 10 at the second period (37-27), while only Lynn Greer (186-G-79, college: Temple) was scoring from Olympiakos, but then the Reds strengthened their defense and with the help of Marc Jackson (206-C/F-75, college: Temple) ended the first half at 6 (44-50).
David Bluthenthal continued on scoring three pointers at the early second half, to give his team an important leading of 13 points (59-46), which was kept stable for almost all the third period since Lynn Greer's scoring was answered by Esteban Batista (208-F/C-83).
However, the last period was proved totally different. Olympiakos' players seemed to comprehend their coach's motive (have patience and do not look at the score) and with a lot of patience, indeed, they decreased the difference initially at 4 points (73-69) with 3-point shots from Ioannis Bourousis (212-C-83, agency: FCM) and Panagotis Vasilopoulos (202-F-84, agency: FCM). This serie was extended at 14-4 (to a draw at 75-75) with Panagotis Vasilopoulos' scoring (before his 5th foul), and then it was Giorgos Printezis (206-F-85, agency: FCM)' time: he took a decisive offensive rebound to give his team the lead (77-75) and then he succeeded at a 3-point shot (77-80). Terence Morris (206-F-79, college: Maryland) may have drawn the score to 80-80 at 28 seconds before the end, but the Greek players knew very well that such a chance should have never been lost. Thus, Lynn Greer took the ball to score almost all his free throws (4/5) after being fouled. Maccabi never succeeded at its attempts until the end and Olympiakos had even the opportunity to equalize the difference of the first round (8 points) but Ioannis Bourousis lost the final shot.

Periods: 25-21, 50-44, 71-61, 82-87

Maccabi: Terence Morris 15 (3), David Bluthenthal 19 (5), Vonteego Cummings (192-G-76, college: Pittsburgh) 8 (2), Esteban Batista 15, Yotam Halperin (196-G-84, agency: Arik Krayn Services) 6, Nikola Vujcic (211-C-78, agency: Interperformances) 6, Will Bynum (180-G-83, agency: Priority Sports, college: Georgia Tech) 13 (1), Garcia, Sharp
Olympiakos: Roderick Blakney (181-G-76, college: S.Carolina St.) 8 (2), Qyntel Woods (204-F/G-81, college: N.Mississippi JC) 2, Ioannis Bourousis 8 (2), Lynn Greer 27 (3), Panagotis Vasilopoulos 10 (1), Giorgos Printezis 9 (1), Marc Jackson 15 (1), Milos Teodosic (196-G-87) 2, Costas Vasiliadis (200-G/F-84, agency: FCM) 6 (1)

The End of Week 4 -by Eurobasket News
CSKA Moscow easily beat Lottomatica Roma 54:82 in Italy.CSKA improved to 3-1 with Group G's only road win so far to take exclusive control of first place. Ramunas Siskauskas (197-G-78) led the winners with 25 points.Trajan Langdon scored 14 points and Holden had 11 points. Ibrahim Jaaber had 18 points for Roma.
Panathinaikos outscored Efes Pilsen 74:65 and returned to the fight for a ticket to the Quarterfinal Playoffs. Michael Batiste (203-F-77, college: Arizona St.) led the Greek champs with 20 points, Vasilis Spanoulis (193-G-82, agency: Beo Basket) added 15 and Dikoudis netted 12. Hutson top-scored for the Turkish side with 21 points and 8 rebounds.
Zalgiris lost to Spanish Real Madrid 69:83 in Group F. Madrid improved to 3-1, meanwhile Zalgiris dropped to 1-3. Felipe Reyes (203-F/C-80) led the winners with 18 points and 7 boards. Kerem Tunceri produced 16 and Louis Bullock collected 15. Marko Popovic (185-G-82, college: S.Idaho JC) led Zalgriis with 18 points, Marcus Brown added 15, Paulius Jankunas just missed a double-double with 13 points and 9 rebounds while Jonas Maciulis had 10 points for the hosts. Good defensive efforts from both teams, a couple mistakes didn't allow the score to grow rapidly. Offensive basketball took edge in the second quarter of the game, Real seemed to take control, but after a three from Marcus Brown, the deficit was decreased to 21:22. Real managed to pull away in the very end of the first half as Kerem Tunceri hit an eight meter buzzer beater to make the score 30:44. Real increased their lead to 16 points in the third quarter. The game ended with desperate three point attempts by Zalgiris, but it just wasn't their day.
Maccabi Elite lost to Olympiacos as the latter tied them in Group F of Top 16. Euroleague thriller in Tel Aviv saw a great battle from both squads. Three quarters lead was not enough for the hosts as Greek side went on a 12-2 run to end the victorious game. Lynn Greer (186-G-79, college: Temple) paced all the winners with 27 points. Marc Jackson (206-C/F-75, college: Temple) nailed 15 points, while Panagotis Vasilopoulos added 10. David Bluthenthal top-scored for the hosts with 19 points, whilst Terence Morris and Esteban Batista scored 15 points apiece.The game had started with the guests dominating in the court. Olympiacos won the opening tip 1:7, but then could not keep their advantage. Maccabi created a 10-0 run and then Vonteego Cummings made it 20:14. Lynn Greer completed a three-point play that made it 25:21 after the first period. The hosts did not fall down and increased the lead in the opening quarter as well. Terence Morris with a lay-in made it 43:31 for the biggest lead of Maccabi. Olympiacos pushed the tempo back to reach 50:44 at halftime. In the third quarter Maccabi took plus 12 again and had 65:53 advantage. With 21:17 in the period Maccabi kept 71:61 deficit after three quarters played. A 2-12 in the last quarter tied the game at 75 for both squads. Printezis gave Olympiacos its first lead since the first quarter, 76:77. Lynn Greer made sure his team is victorious in the game clinching the victory from the free throw line.

Standings
Euroleague Standings
Group D
1. Montepas. 3-1
2. Partizan 2-2
3. Panathin. 2-2
4. Efes P. 1-3
Group E
1. Tau 4-0
2. Fenerbahce 2-2
3. Lietuvos 1-3
4. Aris 1-3
Group F
1. Real 3-1
2. Olympiak. 2-2
3. Macc.T-A 2-2
4. Zalgiris 1-3
Group G
1. CSKA 3-1
2. Barcelona 2-2
3. Unicaja 2-2
4. Lottomatica 1-3


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

Standings - Korisliiga
Korisliiga Standings
1. ToPo 28-9
2. Kouvot 26-11
3. Honka 25-12
4. Lahti 19-17
5. Pyrinto 17-20
6. Kataja 16-22
7. Tarmo 16-22
8. KTP 16-23
9. Korihait 15-22
10. LrNMKY 14-5
11. Componenta 12-25
12. Kauhajoki 11-27


KORISLIIGA: Steve Smith 28 pts / 12 rbs -by Rauno Hurmalainen
Korisliiga, Round 38: Two games tonight and as many home victories. In Uusikaupunki visitor Karhu (Kauhajoki) was ahead by five (39-44)
during the half time, but hosting Korihait won the game by 11 pts 86-75. Glenn Stokes (170-G-76, college: American) led Korihait with 28 pts. Kyle Shiloh (190-G-85, agency: Worldwide Hoops, college: Nevada) added 19 pts. Korihait had four players in double figures. In Kotka visitor Tarmo (Porvoo) had a six pts lead (47-53) during the half time. But hosting KTP won the second half by 20 pts (50-30) and the contest 97-83. Steve Smith (200-F-81, agency: CAA Sports, college: Iona) led KTP with 28 pts and 12 rbs. Jermaine Spivey (189-G-72, agency: Warren Sports, college: New Orleans) added 17 pts and 10 rbs.

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GREECE

Interview with Tomas Nagys -by Serafim Karaiskakis

Tomas Nagys (208-F-80, college: Clemson) the athletic Lithuanian player gave exclusive interview to Eurobasket about the Greek league and his last team Olimpiada Patras. Tomas currently plays in Spain for Akasvayu Girona.

Eurobasket: You had important role in the team and good averages (9.2ppg, 5.6rpg), why you left from Olimpiada Patras?

Tomas Nagys: Team had serious financial problems and was breaching my contract rules and regulations in many different ways. I was playing for Olimpiada Patras almost half of the season and received only one fully monthly payment/salary.

Eurobasket: Olimpiada besides the many changes in the roster is still in the bottom of the table, do you think they can save the year and remain in A1?

Tomas Nagys: At this point I am not sure what is going to happen to Olimpiada Patras team. I wish them good luck for the rest of the season and to survive and stay in A1, even though I lost a lot of respect to Olimpiada Patras organization for being so unprofessional towards all the players and coaches!

Eurobasket: You played in Greece for two teams (Larissa and Olimpiada), tell us your thoughts about the Greek league.

Tomas Nagys: I really enjoyed playing in the competitive Greek basketball league. I think that the level of competition in Greece was high and that is why it is ranked among one of the top leagues in Europe.

Eurobasket: Who was your best teammate in Greece?

Tomas Nagys: I can not name one specific person who was my best teammate in Greece, but i can tell you that while playing in Greece I met many great people and basketball players with who I became good friends and still keep in touch up until this day.

Eurobasket: Coach Christopoulos picked you last year to join Larissa and this season asked for you again in Olimpiada, what is your opinion about him?

Tomas Nagys: I have a lot of respect for coach Christopoulos. He is not just a good coach who is willing to work hard and learn something new everyday but most importantly he is great guy with a very good personality, unfortunately these last couple years he was not given a fair chance to coach under normal conditions at the basketball clubs who are well organized and very professional.


Eurobasket: Your predictions about the Greek A1 league are?

Tomas Nagys: I truly believe that Panathinaikos once again will clinch the title and will be champions of Greek basketball league!

Thank you for the interview and good luck to your career.



Maccabi - Olympiakos 82 - 87 -by Kostas Papadopoulos
Olympiakos made last night the most impressive appearance since coach Panagiotis Giannakis took the leadership of the team and he kept his chances for the Top-8 of Euroleague alive. The Reds' win over Maccabi at Nokia Arena, at the second consecutive no tomorrow game, not only gave an additional perspective to the fans but also certified that the team is on an ongoing situation to the top.
Maccabi was behind at the score only at the first three minutes of the game (1-7) but then, after making a 10-0 serie, with consecutive successive 3-point shots from David Bluthenthal (201-F-80, college: USC), he didn't lose this head. It even led by 10 at the second period (37-27), while only Lynn Greer (186-G-79, college: Temple) was scoring from Olympiakos, but then the Reds strengthened their defense and with the help of Marc Jackson (206-C/F-75, college: Temple) ended the first half at 6 (44-50).
David Bluthenthal continued on scoring three pointers at the early second half, to give his team an important leading of 13 points (59-46), which was kept stable for almost all the third period since Lynn Greer's scoring was answered by Esteban Batista (208-F/C-83).
However, the last period was proved totally different. Olympiakos' players seemed to comprehend their coach's motive (have patience and do not look at the score) and with a lot of patience, indeed, they decreased the difference initially at 4 points (73-69) with 3-point shots from Ioannis Bourousis (212-C-83, agency: FCM) and Panagotis Vasilopoulos (202-F-84, agency: FCM). This serie was extended at 14-4 (to a draw at 75-75) with Panagotis Vasilopoulos' scoring (before his 5th foul), and then it was Giorgos Printezis (206-F-85, agency: FCM)' time: he took a decisive offensive rebound to give his team the lead (77-75) and then he succeeded at a 3-point shot (77-80). Terence Morris (206-F-79, college: Maryland) may have drawn the score to 80-80 at 28 seconds before the end, but the Greek players knew very well that such a chance should have never been lost. Thus, Lynn Greer took the ball to score almost all his free throws (4/5) after being fouled. Maccabi never succeeded at its attempts until the end and Olympiakos had even the opportunity to equalize the difference of the first round (8 points) but Ioannis Bourousis lost the final shot.

Periods: 25-21, 50-44, 71-61, 82-87

Maccabi: Terence Morris 15 (3), David Bluthenthal 19 (5), Vonteego Cummings (192-G-76, college: Pittsburgh) 8 (2), Esteban Batista 15, Yotam Halperin (196-G-84, agency: Arik Krayn Services) 6, Nikola Vujcic (211-C-78, agency: Interperformances) 6, Will Bynum (180-G-83, agency: Priority Sports, college: Georgia Tech) 13 (1), Garcia, Sharp
Olympiakos: Roderick Blakney (181-G-76, college: S.Carolina St.) 8 (2), Qyntel Woods (204-F/G-81, college: N.Mississippi JC) 2, Ioannis Bourousis 8 (2), Lynn Greer 27 (3), Panagotis Vasilopoulos 10 (1), Giorgos Printezis 9 (1), Marc Jackson 15 (1), Milos Teodosic (196-G-87) 2, Costas Vasiliadis (200-G/F-84, agency: FCM) 6 (1)

Beware the Greeks - Part 2 -by Chris Mammides

After Aris road win, Olympiakos added a great road win in Tel Aviv and the night was closed with another victory, this time it was Panathinaikos who beat the Turks of Efes Pilsen. So this week was 100% succesfull for the Hellenic teams in the european courts.
Panagiotis Giannakis proves to be the right choice for the Angelopoulos brothers as allready and after only one month of work proved to change totally the Red team. Players such us Vasilopoulos, Giorgos Printezis (206-F-85) and Woods are really playing defence and at the same time they are playing team-basketball. With upgraded psychology and with clear mind and passion, Giannakis changed Olympiakos and in Tel Aviv, it was a Panagiotis Giannakis team who won Maccabi and not Gershon's. The Greek players had the mood, the passion and the correct guidance to beat Maccabi in the NOKIA Arena, 82-87. Top performer and top scorer was the American guard, Lynn Greer who scored 27 points. The quarters were: 25-21, 50-44, 71-61, 82-87.

The scorers for Olympiakos were: Lynn Greer (186-G-79, college: Temple) 27 (3), Blakney 8 (2), Woods 2, Vassilopoulos 10 (1), Bourousis 8 (2), Printezis 9 (1), Jackson 15 (1), Teodosic 2, Vassiliadis 6.

In the other game in OAKA, Panathinaikos after trying to commit suicide against the half team of Efes Pilsen, decided to play some decent basketball and with a great fourth quarter beat Efes Pilsen with 74-65, loosing the advantage for only one point as the Greens lost in Turkey with 10 and they beat with 9 points. The quarters were: 15-20, 31-38, 54-52, 74-65
The Scorers were:
Spanoulis 15, Becirovic 2, Batiste 20, Zizic 2, Hatzivretas 7(2), Dikoudis 12, Winston, Diamantidis 11, Jasikevicius 3.




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

SAT-Cybertech wins in debut -by Gianni Pascucci
Import player Henry Martinez (186-G/F-75, agency: Interperformances) led his teammates with 27 points in SAT Cybertec's win over Nacionales of El Salvador in Game 1 of the Liga Centroamericana series, with a final score of 91-86. At the losing side, Alejandro Cajar (190-G/F-78) scored 26 points, to be the game second best scorer. The one played in Guatemalal City tonight was an exciting match, that Sat Cybertec controlled all the time, but almost let it go in the final minutes, when Nacionales momentarily took a 2-points lead. Game 2 will be held tomorrow in Guatemala, with a 'Nacionales de El Salvador' team that will surely fight to avoid falling deep to the last position of the Group B after three consecutive losses in the tournament.
with the help of Victor Padilla

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

MyGuide wants another set-up of the Dutch competition -by Fred Roggen
The governingboard of MyGuide Amsterdam has submitted a proposal at the FEB to set-up another competitionform. The current double competition with 40 or 44 games is too intensive and offers too
little space/rest with the European - and Dutchcup games. A total of around thirty games is seen as an ideal one.
MyGuide want to discuss this proposal gladly within the FEB and want to presented this point of view to the other teams for a poll.

Cooperation between Aris Friesland and Eiffel Towers Den Bosch -by Fred Roggen
Aris Friesland Leeuwarden has signed a contract for a cooperation with Eiffel Towers Den Bosch. As of the coming season, Eiffel Towers Den Bosch will place five talented players from the Netherlands and abroad in the age of 20-23 years at Aris Friesland Leeuwarden to develop them to European topplayers. The clubs have signed a three-years agreement with the option of an extention of two more years.
By this cooperation, the future for Aris Friesland Leeuwarden has been guaranteed for the coming years.

Standings - Eredivisie
Eredivisie Standings
1. Amsterdam 26-5
2. West-Brabant 22-9
3. M.Magix 19-12
4. Eiff.Towers 18-11
5. Rotterdam 18-12
6. Hanzev.Cpt 18-13
7. Zwolle 13-18
8. Leiden 12-18
9. Weert 12-19
10. Aris Friesland 6-25
11. Den Helder 4-26
12. Almere 0-0


West-Brabant Giants Keep Pace, Win Thriller Over Landstede Basketball -by Sanders Jackson

In a televised matchup in Bergen-Op-Zoom on Thursday, West-Brabant Giants kept their recent strong play going, and putting the winning streak of one of the league's hottest teams' streak to a halt, winning over Landstede Basketball with a 90-84 win. West-Brabant Giants did a good job of taking Landstede leading scorer Darnell Wilson (198-F-85, college: Canisius) out of the game, while Patrick Pope (183-G-81, college: St.Augustine) remained a thorn in Landstede's side this season. Pope scored a game-high 29 pts., while the Giants held Wilson to a season-low 9 pts. Pope shot 14 of 15 from the free throw line, making more than the entire Landstede team combined. Maurice Sumter (196-G/F, agency: Court Side, college: Longwood) added 20 pts. Alexander Sa (184-G-83) led Landstede with 20 pts. The win improves West-Brabant's record to 22-9 and four games behind MyGuide Giants, whie Landstede's four-game winning streak ends.

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ICELAND

KFI Reykjavik sign Allan Sheppard -by Eurobasket
KFI Reykjavik (D1) strengthened their roster with addition of American forward Allan Sheppard (196-F, agency: Global Sports Plaza). Sheppard played most recently at St.Francis College, NY (NCAA) in the U.S.in 31 games: 10.8ppg, 5.1rpg, 2.0apg, 1.4spg, FGP: 47.9%, 3Pts: 33.3%, FT: 47.8%, It will be his first year in professional basketball.

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

Olympiacos beat Maccabi Elite and ties them in the group -by Eurobasket News
Maccabi Elite -Olympiacos 82:87

Maccabi Elite lost to Olympiacos as the latter tied them in Group F of Top 16. Euroleague thriller in Tel Aviv saw a great battle from both squads. Three quarters lead was not enough for the hosts as Greek side went on a 12-2 run to end the victorious game. Lynn Greer (186-G-79, college: Temple) paced all the winners with 27 points. Marc Jackson (206-C/F-75, college: Temple) nailed 15 points, while Panagotis Vasilopoulos (202-F-84, agency: FCM) added 10. David Bluthenthal (201-F-80, college: USC) top-scored for the hosts with 19 points, whilst Terence Morris (206-F-79, college: Maryland) and Esteban Batista (208-F/C-83) scored 15 points apiece.
The game had started with the guests dominating in the court. Olympiacos won the opening tip 1:7, but then could not keep their advantage. Maccabi created a 10-0 run and then Vonteego Cummings made it 20:14. Lynn Greer completed a three-point play that made it 25:21 after the first period. The hosts did not fall down and increased the lead in the opening quarter as well. Terence Morris with a lay-in made it 43:31 for the biggest lead of Maccabi. Olympiacos pushed the tempo back to reach 50:44 at halftime.
In the third quarter Maccabi took plus 12 again and had 65:53 advantage. With 21:17 in the period Maccabi kept 71:61 deficit after three quarters played. A 2-12 in the last quarter tied the game at 75 for both squads. Printezis gave Olympiacos its first lead since the first quarter, 76:77. Lynn Greer made sure his team is victorious in the game clinching the victory from the free throw line.

Maccabi Elite: David Bluthenthal 19 points, Terence Morris 15+10 rebs, Esteban Batista 15+ 8 rebounds, Will Bynum (180-G-83, agency: Priority Sports, college: Georgia Tech) 13, Vonteego Cummings (192-G-76, college: Pittsburgh) 8 points and 7 assists
Olympiacos Piraeus: Lynn Greer 27, Marc Jackson 15 points, Panagotis Vasilopoulos 10

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

Market news in B1 -by Massimo Finizio
Intertrasport Blu Basket Treviglio signs Emanuele Rossi (208-C-82) from Fastweb Casale Monferrato. Rossi signed a contract with his new team till June 2010.

Pool Firenze hires Marco Rota as head coach. Rota replaces Andrea Da Prato .

Luca Ianes (202-F/C-80) moves from Pool Firenze to FMC Ferentino. The new contract will last till June 2009. In the first part of the season Ianes played 20 matches with 169 points (8.5 avg.), 158 rebounds (7.9 avg.) e 13 rating

Last market news -by Gianni Pascucci
Benetton Treviso and John Lucas (180-G-82, college: Oklahoma St.) agreed to part ways. Team GM Marco Atripaldi stated to media that his team needs of a different kind of player, and that a new roster addition could be announced soon. After welcoming Keith Langford (193-G/F-83, college: Kansas), Angelico Biella agreed to send Guido Rosselli (196-G-83) to Carmatic Pistoia (Lega 2). Rosselli will replace in Pistoia roster Leonardo Zaccariello (190-G/F-82, agency: Players Group), who left the team.

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

Weekend Schedule for 8/9 March 2008 -by Edona Shabani
'MABETEX SUPER LEAGUE A'

WEEK -III-

TREPCA - KOSOVA, Sunday on 18,00
Referees: Agim Halili, Isa Prebreza, Atdhe Gocaj
Monitors: Muhamet Ahma

PEJA - SIGAL PRISHTINA, Sunday on 20,00
Referees: Hajredin Zeka, Faton Kurshumliu, Daut Mehmeti
Monitors: Naim Lepaja

BAMBI -YLLI -postponed

'MABETEX SUPER LEAGUE B'

WEEK - I -

RC COLA DRITA - SHB'12', Sunday on 18,00
Referees: Mehdi Gashi, Arbnor Rifati, Alban Vula
Monitors: Tafil Hoxha

KASTRIOTI - BASHKIMI, Sunday on 18,00
Referees: Hektor Grezda, Vllaznim Rraci, Xhavit Beqiri
Monitors: Nexhdet Hoxha

FIRST LEAGUE

WEEK -I-

VERTIKALI -FUSHË KOSOVA, Sunday on 14,00
Referees: Faton Kurshumliu, Xhelal Mumini
Monitors: Hajrullah Rexhepi

EUROSPORTI-MALISHEVA, Sunday on 10,00
Referees: Alban Vula, Fisnik Ramadani
Monitors: Hasim Jashanica

LLAPI rest

TOYOTA WOMEN LEAGUE

WEEK e VIII

DRITA - PRISHTINA PROBASKET, Sunday on 16,00
Referees: Mehdi Gashi, Alban Vula
Monitors: Nuri Selmani

KASTRIOTI - BASHKIMI, Sunday on 16,00
Referees: Hektor Grezda, Vllaznim Rraci,
Monitors: Isak Jashari

VËLLAZNIMI - PENZA, Monday on 15,00
Referees: Vllaznim Rraci, Amir Mamusha
Monitors: Nexhdet Hoxha

TREPCA - SIGAL PRISHTINA, Sunday on 11,00
Referees: Xhavit Beqiri, Ilhan Xhaka
Monitors: Mehmet Xhemaili

JUNIOR'S LEAGUE GROUP B

WEEK IX-

TREPCA - SIGAL PRISHTINA, Sunday on 16,00
Referees: Xhavit Beqiri, Ilhan Xhaka
Monitors: Bajrush Ademi

VERTIKALI - KOSOVA, Sunday on 16,30 (SH.F.'Dardani')
Referees: Burim Berisha, Bashkim Berbatovci
Monitors: Remzi Ramadani

Rests : 'PRISHTINA PROBASKET' and 'RC COLA DRITA'

CADET'S LEAGUE GROUP A

WEEK IX

PEJA AG - KALAJA, Sunday on 14,00
Referees: Azem Hoxhaj , Hysen Hasani
Monitors: Tajar Rifati

ABS VËLLAZNIMI - RC COLA DRITA, Sunday on 12,30
Referees: Vllaznim Rraci, Amir Mamusha
Monitors: Burim Koshi

BASHKIMI - TUSHI&GRUDA, Sunday on 13,00
Referees: Arbnor Rifati, Kushtrim Cocaj
Monitors: Tafil Hoxha

Rests: 'YLLI'

CADET'S LEAGUE GROUP B

WEEK IX

SIGAL PRISHTINA - VUSTRIA BASKET, Sunday on 10,00
Referees: Flamur Ajeti, Kushrtim Gashi
Monitors: Sejdi Mehmeti

VERTIKALI - TREPCA, Sunday on 14,00
Referees: Atdhe Gocaj, Fitim Gashi
Monitors: Hajrullah Rexhepi

BONUSI - PRISHTINA PROBASKET, Sunday on 12,00
Referees: Fisnik Ramadani, Burim Berisha
Monitors: Alban Lumi

MITROVICA - EUROBASKET, Sunday on 09,00
Referees: Armend Sejdiu, Burim Beqiri
Monitors: Mehmet Xhemaili

'PIONEER'S LEAGUE 'STOBI FLIPS' GROUP A

WEEK IX

ABS VËLLAZNIMI - RC COLA DRITA, Sunday on 11,00
Referees: Vllaznim Rraci, Amir Mamusha
Monitors: Burim Koshi

BASHKIMI - NBA 23, Sunday on13,00
Referees: Kushtrim Cocaj , Egzon Thaqi
Monitors: Tafil Hoxha

YLLI - PEJA AG, Sunday on 12,00
Referees: Glauk Collaku, Hazir Haxha
Monitors: Ruzhdi Kuqi

KALAJA - SHB 12, Sunday on 13,00
Referees: Fjolla Elshani, Glauk Qollaku
Monitors: Tajar Rifati

PIONEER'S LEAGUE 'STOBI FLIPS' GROUP B

WEEK IX

TREPCA - 'VERTIKALI, Sunday on 09,00
Referees: Albert Verbiqi, Armend Sejdiu
Monitors: Mehmet Xhemaili

MEGABASKET - 'BONUSI, Sunday on 11,00
Referees: Ilhan Xhaka, Albert Verbiqi
Monitors: Bajrush Ademi

VUSHTRIA BASKET - PRISHTINA PROBASKET Sunday on 12,30
Referees: Zaim Zenuni, Ardian Rrustemi
Monitors: Muhamet Munishi

Rests: 'EUROBASKET'


Source: www.basketbolli.com

Alexandar Sovkovski signes for BC"Peja" -by Edona Shabani

Basketball Club ' Peja' made the request to sign Macedonian player Alexander Sovrovski, former player of BC' Vardar' in Skopje.

If the documentation foreseen from the Regulation for transfer and registering are completed and the extra fee 350 € is paid, Svorovski has the right to play in the week XII of Mabetex Super League A in the match between Peja - Sigal Prishtina appointed for Saturday, March 8, 2008 starting on 8:00.


Source: www.basketbolli.com

First round results of Kosova Cup -by Edona Shabani
05/06.03.2008

MEN

Group A

YLLI - FUSHË KOSOVA 93:64

VERTIKALI - LLAPI 77 :81

Bambi is ranked in the second round with no matches.

Group B

TREPCA - LIPJANI 124:58

KOSOVA - SHB'12' 67:64

Group C

SIGAL PRISHTINA - KOSOVARI was not played

KASTRIOTI - BASHKIMI 74:81

Group D

PEJA - EUROSPORTI 92:67

RC COLA DRITA - MALISHEVA 85:50

WOMEN

Group A

SIGAL PRISHTINA - PROBASKET 71:26

TREPCA - DRITA 64:57

Group B

BASHKIMI - KASTRIOTI was not played

PENZA - VËLLAZNIMI 70:37


Source: www.basketbolli.com

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

LBL standings
LBL Standings
Division I
1. Valmiera 10-7
2. ASK Riga 9-0
3. Liep.Lauvas 9-7
4. Barons/LMT 8-1
5. BK Ventsp. 8-2
6. VEF Riga 8-9
7. Bum./ASK 2-14
8. Keizarmezs 1-15
Division II
1. Zemgale 22-5
2. Ventspils au. 19-6
3. ASK/Juniors 18-11
4. RNS-D/Livani 17-10
5. LU/Ridzene 13-14
6. Jurmala 13-14
7. Roja 9-18
8. Saldus 5-20
9. Cesis/Remarks 5-23


Stats Leaders
LBL Stats Leaders
Points Per Game
Ozols (Jurmala) 21.1
Kanbergs (VA) 20.1
Rudzitis (Bum.) 19.6
Jurevicus (Liepaja) 18.6
Delveris (Roja) 18.2
Rebounds Per Game
Stimac (Valmiera) 11.3
Ed.Eglitis (LU/Ridz.) 8.8
Licitis (Saldus) 8.6
J.Rozitis (ASK/Jun.) 8.3
Alexander (Barons) 7.9
Assists Per Game
Slesers (Livani) 7.1
Buskevics (ASK) 4.8
Nash (Valmiera) 4.1
Tiss (Saldus) 4.1
Raiskums (Zemgale) 4.0
Steals Per Game
Slesers (Livani) 3.3
Skele (Barons) 2.9
Millage (ASK) 2.7
Blocks Per Game
J.Rozitis (ASK/Jun.) 2.7
D.Rozitis (Cesis) 2.5
Rich (Liepaja) 2.4
Ranking
Stimac (Valmiera) 22.6
Kanbergs (VA) 21.0
Raiskums (Zemgale) 20.0


*****************************************************
LIBERIA

Barbara laid to rest Saturday -by Numennie Williams
The body of former Invincible Eleven and Lone Star female basketball team player Barbara Geekor will be laid to rest Saturday March 8, 2008 in the Liberia capital Monrovia. The remain of the late basketball star will be taken to the Sports Commission today for three hours of viewing where basketball lovers, basketballers and friends will pay final homage to the fallen star. The body will then be taken to the Church of Christ for a night of wake keeping. She died two weeks ago after a brief illness.

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

Pioneros win in Nicaragua -by Gianni Pascucci
Pioneros de Quintana Roo won their third game in a row in Liga Centroamericana, starting their series vs. Jaguares de la UAM with a clear win, 87-66, in Manaugua. After winning 24-21 the first quarter, Pioneros never looked back, ending the game with a 21 points difference. Another time more, LeRoy Hickerson (196-G-82, college: Cumberlands) was the man of the game. He scored 25 points and was unstoppable under the boards by the Nicaraguan team. Juan Pablo Bravo (191-G/F) added 12 points at the winning side, Alonso Izaguirre (200-G/F-76) and Enrique Zuniga (193-G-75, college: Grand Canyon) scored 9 points each for Pioneros. The best in Jaguares was Jasser Jimenez (176-G-83), who ended the game with 17 points, while import Ben McCain (206-C-83, college: Houston Baptist) scored 13 points. Game 2 of this series will be played tomorrow.

Standings
Liga Centroamericana Standings
Group A
1. Pioneros 3-0
2. Jaguares 0-1
3. Liceo 0-2
Group B
1. Icevic T. 2-0
2. SAT 1-0
3. Nacionales 0-3


SAT-Cybertech wins in debut -by Gianni Pascucci
Import player Henry Martinez (186-G/F-75, agency: Interperformances) led his teammates with 27 points in SAT Cybertec's win over Nacionales of El Salvador in Game 1 of the Liga Centroamericana series, with a final score of 91-86. At the losing side, Alejandro Cajar (190-G/F-78) scored 26 points, to be the game second best scorer. The one played in Guatemalal City tonight was an exciting match, that Sat Cybertec controlled all the time, but almost let it go in the final minutes, when Nacionales momentarily took a 2-points lead. Game 2 will be held tomorrow in Guatemala, with a 'Nacionales de El Salvador' team that will surely fight to avoid falling deep to the last position of the Group B after three consecutive losses in the tournament.
with the help of Victor Padilla

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

Standings - LKL
LKL Standings
1. Lietuvos 13-0
2. Zalgiris 11-2
3. Alita 7-5
4. Siauliai 7-6
5. Neptunas 6-6
6. Sakalai 5-7
7. Nevezis 5-7
8. Panevezys 4-9
9. Atletas 4-10
10. Suduva 1-11


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

Pioneros win in Nicaragua -by Gianni Pascucci
Pioneros de Quintana Roo won their third game in a row in Liga Centroamericana, starting their series vs. Jaguares de la UAM with a clear win, 87-66, in Manaugua. After winning 24-21 the first quarter, Pioneros never looked back, ending the game with a 21 points difference. Another time more, LeRoy Hickerson (196-G-82, college: Cumberlands) was the man of the game. He scored 25 points and was unstoppable under the boards by the Nicaraguan team. Juan Pablo Bravo (191-G/F) added 12 points at the winning side, Alonso Izaguirre (200-G/F-76) and Enrique Zuniga (193-G-75, college: Grand Canyon) scored 9 points each for Pioneros. The best in Jaguares was Jasser Jimenez (176-G-83), who ended the game with 17 points, while import Ben McCain (206-C-83, college: Houston Baptist) scored 13 points. Game 2 of this series will be played tomorrow.

Lobos Sergio Sanchez Hopes to Shine in D League -by Justin Brink
Sergio Sanchez (180-G-83, college: UTPA), a guard, played this past season with the Lobos UAC out of Saltillo and averaged nearly 18 points a game shooting 42 % from two point range, almost 90% from the free throw line and a steady 47% from three point range. Sanchez lead the LNBP atempts per game at over four and found time in between raining three's to drop almost four dimes per game. Though the Lobos finished a disappointing 15 and 33 this year Sanchez' play was anything but. After the LNBP season ended had his sights set on the CBA but things didn't work out and he put his name into the D league pool and was nabbed by the 'D' Leagues Rio Grande Vipers where he has played four games and seen limited minutes so far. You can track Sanchez' D league progress here.

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MOROCCO

Day 15 -by Nour Amri
IRT power forward Papis Diouf filled the stat sheet with 27 points but only five rebounds in Saturday evening's 82-74 victory over TSC. He certainly lost his own game playing defense against his ex team-mate Camara Lassana who finishes the game with a triple double (15 points, 11 rebounds, 10 blocks). TSC dominated the under rim battle as Gaye Malamine scores 17 points and grabbed 12 rebounds. IRT played under their level in a empty Badr's gymnasium as Moroccan Federation decided after the unacceptable spectators behaviour in the previous IRT/MAS game. IRT save the game thanks to the good game of Marouane Kechrid (16 points, 6 assists) and experienced Ahmed Kajaj (15 points).

FUS remain in the borderline after their lost against a resurrected WAC team (75-63). FUS players resisted the first period of the game but then could not stop furious local player Karim Layadi and his team-mates.

RCA struggled to insure the win over CMC (67-72). Coach Yatribi's players showed a high level of fighting spirit and were about to create the surprise. With only two rounds left for the playoffs, RCA players looked in a very worrying lack of physical condition.

The other results of the day saw ASS edge past KAC 79-70 and MAS crushing MET 66-55.

Standings - Men
D1 Standings
1. IRT 13-2
2. MAS 12-3
3. RCA 12-3
4. ASS 11-4
5. WAC 11-4
6. KAC 5-10
7. FUS 4-11
8. TSC 3-12
9. CMC 3-12
10. MET 1-14


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NAIA

NAIA II National Tourney Bracket Released -by Brandon Woudstra

Here are a list of the qualifiers and how they got in. For a complete look at the bracket click here.

Aquinas (Mich.) (24-8, 11-3)
At-Large C

Bellevue (Neb.) (29-3, 11-1)
Midlands Collegiate Champion

Bethel (Ind.) (27-6, 12-4)
Mid-Central College Tourn. Champion

Bluefield (Va.) (25-7, 15-3)
Appalachian Tournament Runners-up

Cedarville (Ohio) (22-7, 10-4)
American Mideast Tourn. Champion

Dakota Wesleyan (24-8, 13-5)
At-Large E

Eastern Oregon (25-5, 17-3)
Cascade Regular Season Champion

Edward Waters (Fla.) (20-11, 6-8)
Florida Sun Tournament Champion

Embry-Riddle (Fla.) (27-6, 10-4)
At-Large D

Evangel (Mo.) (27-6, 17-3)
Heart of America Tournament Champion

Friends (Kan.) (19-11, 12-6)
Kansas Collegiate Tourn. Champion

Grace (Ind.) (24-9, 11-5)
At-Large G

Indiana-Southeast (24-8, 9-0)
Kentucky Intercollegiate Champion

Indiana Tech (21-12, 10-4)
Wolverine-Hoosier Tourn. Champion

Jamestown (N.D.) (23-8, 11-3)
At-Large F

Judson (Ill.) (19-8, 10-2)
Chicagoland Collegiate Champion

King (Tenn.) (26-7, 16-2)
Appalachian Champions

Menlo (Calif.) (18-9, 13, 3)
California Pacific Tourn. Champion

MidAmerica Nazarene (Kan.) (28-4, 17-3)
Heart of America Reg. Season Champion

Minot State (N.D.) (19-11, 10-4)
Dakota Athletic Tourn. Champion

Morningside (Iowa) (28-3, 16-2)
Great Plains Athletic Reg. Season Champion

Mount Vernon Nazarene (Ohio)
(23-7, 9-5)
At-Large I

Northwestern (Iowa) (27-4, 15-3)
Great Plains Athletic Tourn. Champion

Northwood (Fla.) (25-7, 12-2)
At-Large B

Oklahoma Wesleyan (25-7, 8-4)
At-Large H

Oregon Tech (26-6, 16-4)
At-Large A

Ottawa (Kan.) (23-8, 14-4)
Kansas Collegiate Reg. Season Champion

Ozarks (Mo.) (25-5, 10-2)
Host Institution

St. Joseph (Vt.) (13-14, 9-5)
Sunrise Conference Tourn. Champion

Walsh (Ohio) (25-4, 12-2)
American Mideast Conference Champion

Warner Pacific (Ore.) (22-10, 14-6)
Cascade Tournament Champion

William Penn (Iowa) (28-5), 13-3)
Midwest Collegiate Champion



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NBA

The Rockets take it higher -by Eurobasket News
The Houston Rockets look simply unstoppable at the moment. The Rockets launched their 17th straight victory. This time the success came against the Southwest rivals Dallas Mavericks and saw Houston improve to 41-20 record. Tracy McGrady (6'8''-G/F-79) was once again leading the scene with 31 points and 9 assists to ignite the Rockets mounting franchise-best record of straight victories. It is also now the 7th best streak in the NBA history. The teams drove close throughout the first half but a sloppy offense in the third frame cost the Mavs a game. They committed 7 turnovers which were turned into a couple of painful rallies from the Rockets and the visitors built a 19-point buffer to clear off for good. The Mavericks were without their main offensive force Dirk Nowitzki as he was serving a one-game suspension for a flagrant foul on Andrei Kirilenko. It was the third straight loss for Dallas as they slipped to the 7th spot in the West. Rafer Alston (6'2''-G-76, college: Fresno St.) provided 24 points, while rookie Carl Landry (6'7''-F-83, college: Purdue) added 17 points for the winners. Josh Howard (6'6''-F-80, college: Wake Forest) answered with 21 points for Dallas. Jason Terry (6'2''-G-77, college: Arizona) produced 17 points in the fourth loss for the Mavs in the last five games.
In the meantime the San Antonio Spurs registered the 11th straight win overwhelming the visiting Pacers 108:97 yesterday. Emanuel Ginobili (6'6''-G-77, agency: Interperformances) worked well for the hosts scoring 28 points in a winning case. It was just enough to compensate a rare slow performance from Tim Duncan (6'10''-F-76, college: Wake Forest). The Spurs all-star forward shot 3/11 from the field and finished with 6 points on the night. Danny Granger (6'8''-F-83, agency: Priority Sports, college: N.Mexico) replied with 22 points for the ailing Indiana as the dropped second in a row. San Antonio preserved the top position in the West.

Standings
NBA Standings
Eastern Conference
Atlantic Div.
1. Boston C. 48-12
2. Toronto R. 33-28
3. Philadelphia 29-33
4. New Jersey N. 26-36
5. New York K. 18-44
Central Div.
1. Detroit P. 45-17
2. Cleveland C. 35-27
3. Chicago B. 25-37
4. Indiana P. 24-38
5. Milwaukee B. 23-39
Southeast Div.
1. Orlando M. 40-23
2. Washington W. 30-31
3. Atlanta H. 24-36
4. Charlotte B. 23-39
5. Miami H. 11-48
Western Conference
Northwest Div.
1. Utah J. 41-22
2. Denver N. 37-24
3. Portland T.B. 32-30
4. Seattle S. 16-46
5. Minnesota T. 13-48
Pacific Div.
1. Los Angeles L. 44-18
2. Phoenix S. 40-22
3. Golden St. 38-23
4. Sacramento K. 27-35
5. Los Angeles C. 20-40
Southwest Div.
1. San Antonio S. 43-18
2. N.Orleans H. 42-19
3. Houston R. 41-20
4. Dallas M. 39-23
5. Memphis G. 15-46


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NCAA

KFI Reykjavik sign Allan Sheppard -by Eurobasket
KFI Reykjavik (D1) strengthened their roster with addition of American forward Allan Sheppard (196-F, agency: Global Sports Plaza). Sheppard played most recently at St.Francis College, NY (NCAA) in the U.S.in 31 games: 10.8ppg, 5.1rpg, 2.0apg, 1.4spg, FGP: 47.9%, 3Pts: 33.3%, FT: 47.8%, It will be his first year in professional basketball.

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NEW ZEALAND

Phill Jones fires down Taranaki -by Eurobasket News
Taranaki - Nelson 80:97

The Tall Blacks guard Phill Jones (196-G-74) found the touch and helped the Nelson Giants rebound after a sour loss to Waikato yesterday. He nailed 23 points as the defending champs overcame the Devon Dynamos Taranaki 97:80 at the TSB Stadium today. Coming off an intense Australian NBL season Phill Jones struggled to find the right form in the opening games for the Giants. But today he resembled of himself with an 8/14 field goal shooting to carry Nelson to the third win at the tournament. Jamil Terrell (200-F/C-80, college: W.Texas A&M) provided sufficient help with 22 points and 11 boards for the winners. Nelson dominated from the tip off as they ran away to a 23:15 distance at the end of the first quarter. The things got even worse for the hosts in the second period as the Giants notched 31 points and stretched the lead to as many as 23. Taranaki finally adjusted the tempo in the second half and tried to produce a comeback. They outscored the visitors in the third and fourth stanzas but never seriously endangered the Giants' lead. Michael Mike Fitchett (183-G-82) tallied 17 points and 4 assists for the winning side. Tony Rampton (213-C-76, college: Iowa St.) had 23 points and 9 boards for the Dynamos. Keith Salscheider (196-G/F-82, agency: Sports Plus International, college: San Diego Chr.) drilled 20 points in defeat. Taranaki outrebounded the visitors 40:36 but never matched Nelson in accuracy. Nelson improved to 3-1 record and would play their first home-game next Thursday against the Wellington Saints. Taranaki fell to 1-1 record and take on the Waikato Pistons on March 15.

Taranaki: Tony Rampton 23+9 boards, Keith Salscheider 20
Nelson: Phill Jones 23, Jamil Terrell 22+11 boards, Michael Mike Fitchett 18

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PBL

QC and Rochester win Divisions -by Gianni Pascucci
The Arkansas Impact defeated yesterday night the Reading Railers 102-95 and will meet tonight the Rochester RazorSharks to open the last week of the PBL regular season schedule. It is almost playoff time in this league too, and we have to say that, after all, the PBL have kept its words, ending the season with the same number of teams at the starting line-up. The first standings at the both divisions are yet assigned: thanks to victories during the Premier Basketball League's Super Scouting Showcase, the Rochester RazorSharks have clinched the 2008 East Division title. By winning this East Division, the RazorSharks earned two playoff byes and will host the East Division Championship game on Thursday, March 20th at the Blue Cross Arena in Rochester, NY. Teams that are seeded 2-5 will play at the Attack Athletics Center in Chicago, IL for playoff games on March 18th and 19th. Each division's #2 seed will play #5 and #3 will play #4 on Tuesday, March 18th. The winners of those games will meet the next day, Wednesday, March 19th, also at the Attack Athletics Center. The 2008 Regular Season West Division Champions are the Quad City Riverhawks. They will host the West Division Championship game on March 20th at Wharton Field House in Moline, Illinois. After that the two Division Championships will be played, the Premier Basketball League Championship game will be held on Sunday, March 30th at a site to be determined.

Standings
PBL Standings
Eastern Division
1. Rochester R. 15-2
2. Wilmington SD 10-7
3. Reading R. 8-8
4. Jacksonville J. 7-9
5. Maryland N. 6-11
Western Division
1. Quad City R. 13-4
2. Arkansas I. 8-8
3. Rockford Fury 7-9
4. Dallas D. 5-11
5. Chicago T. 4-13


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PHILIPPINES

Former PBA Player Tino Reynoso Dies -by Lorenzo Gahol

MANILA - Former Philippine Basketball Association (PBA) player Cristino 'Tino' Reynoso passed away at the Medical City after suffering from a stroke. Former PBA player and coach Jimmy Mariano confirmed the sad news of his friend's death. Reynoso played for Toyota, Seven-Up, Utex, and Mariwasa in the PBA. He was 62. Reynoso's younger brother, Big Boy, who played for Toyota and Mariwasa, also suffered a stroke in San Francisco, California, almost on the same day but was later pronounced out of danger. Big Boy is still in intensive care but is now allowed to entertain visitors.

Basketball Friendly - Gin Kings Nip Jewelers -by Lorenzo Gahol

Barangay Ginebra Kings 92 - M. Lhuillier Kwarta Padala 90: The Kings banked on the heroics of Rafi Reavis to escape with a victory over the Jewelers at the jam-packed Cebu Coliseum. The lanky center sank a mid-range jumper with a fraction of a second left to hand the host team its second-straight loss against a Philippine Basketball Association (PBA) squad in two months. The Jewelers lost to the Talk 'N Text Phone Pals, 97-101, on January 21. It was a sorry setback for the Jewelers, who battled from double-digit deficits to tie the count at 90-90 with 12.2 seconds left. Rodney Santos finished with 13 points while Ronald Tubid chipped in 11 for the Kings, who played minus star players Mark Caguioa and Jayjay Helterbrand. Import Michael Jamaar Le Blanc topscored for the Jewelers with 25 points while former PBA player Bruce Dacia added 21.

Basketball Friendly - Gin Kings Nip Jewelers -by Lorenzo Gahol
Barangay Ginebra Kings 92 - M. Lhuillier Kwarta Padala 90: The Kings banked on the heroics of Rafi Reavis to escape with a victory over the Jewelers at the jam-packed Cebu Coliseum. The lanky center sank a mid-range jumper with a fraction of a second left to hand the host team its second-straight loss against a Philippine Basketball Association (PBA) squad in two months. The Jewelers lost to the Talk 'N Text Phone Pals, 97-101, on January 21. It was a sorry setback for the Jewelers, who battled from double-digit deficits to tie the count at 90-90 with 12.2 seconds left. John Rodney Santos (188-F-73) finished with 13 points while Ronald Tubid chipped in 11 for the Kings, who played minus star players Mark Caguioa and Jayjay Helterbrand. Import Michael Jamar LeBlanc topscored for the Jewelers with 25 points while former PBA player Bruce Dacia added 21.

Perasol Praises Import -by Lorenzo Gahol

MANILA - Air21 Express head coach Dolreich Perasol likes what he sees in import Steve Thomas (203-F-81, agency: Promotex, college: Middle Tenn.St.) so far. The youthful mentor described his squad's reinforcement in the upcoming Philippine Basketball Association (PBA) Fiesta conference as a smaller version of Orlando Magic All-Star Dwight Howard. 'He can play low and has the ability to knock down perimeter jumpers,' said Perasol, who expects Thomas to further boost a frontline that already boasts of Ranidel de Ocampo, Doug Kramer, Gabby Espinas, KG Canaleta, and Arwind Santos. Thomas is scheduled to join his new squad on March 15, shortly after his stint with the East Kentucky Miners in the Continental Basketball Association.

Welcoat Mum On Imports -by Lorenzo Gahol
MANILA - The Welcoat Dragons may be up to something big in the upcoming Philippine Basketball Association (PBA) Fiesta Conference. Coach Leovino Austria said the team will only announce its choice of imports after they sign with Welcoat to avoid getting pirated by other squads. The former PBA star added that their reinforcements' identities will be revealed when they arrive next week. The Dragons, along with the Coca-Cola Tigers, are allowed to get two imports due to their dismal record in the Philippine Cup elimination round. Welcoat is reportedly considering three former National Basketball Association players for its taller import, while the smaller reinforcement is a veteran of the Mexican league. J. Bagulaya

Sta. Lucia Eyes Fiesta Conference Title -by Lorenzo Gahol

MANILA - Sta. Lucia Realtors coach Boyet Fernandez is brimming with confidence these days. The young mentor said the Realtors are bringing in a 2.07-meter banger to help them get a second-straight title. 'He can be efficient inside the lane and the perimeter,' Fernandez added. Sta. Lucia won its first title in the import-laden Governor's Cup in 2001 with scoring machine Damien Owens leading the charge for the team. Fernandez claimed that the Realtors have two other imports on hold in case things do not work out with their first choice. The Philippine Basketball Association Fiesta Conference will kick off on March 29 with the Talk 'N Text Phone Pals facing the Coca-Cola Tigers, who will have two imports after finishing second-to-last in Philippine Cup. J. Bagulaya

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POLAND

Bennet leaving Polpharma, Daniels injured -by Karol Machera
Charles Bennett (206-C-77, agency: Hart Sports Mngm, college: Midwestern St.) is no longer player of Polpharma Starogard Gdanski. The Club decided to waive the player. Bennet started the season in Stal Ostrow Wlkp and averaged 4,5 ppg and 2.6 rpg in 12 games. He did better in Polpharma's jersey 7 ppg and 4.4 rpg but the board of the Club has suspected better play from the player.

Alan Daniels (198-F-84, college: Lamar) from WTK Anwil Wloclawek has spread his ankle at the game versus AZS Koszalin. He will not play in next league game vs. Prokom Trefl Sopot and he can miss two next games also.

Griszczuk and Krygier jobless -by Karol Machera

The headcoach of Energa Czarni Slupsk - Igor Griszczuk has been fired by the board of the Club after loosing to Polpharma Starogard Gdanski. Current season was the third for Griszczuk in Slupsk and the worst for the Club that is on the bottom of the league table and fights for staying in the DBE.

Also Arkadiusz Krygier - the president of PGE Turow Zgorzelec has been fired. The board has replace the president with Piotr Wasniewski. The board of the company acuse the former president for making the million USD hole in the Clubs budget with unnecessary expenses.



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PORTUGAL

Robert Cheeks replaces Thiago Labbate in Ginasio -by Bruno Baltazar
The brazilian center Thiago Labbate is out injured for the rest of the season due to a sholder injury(that reason he already missed 5 games) and Ginasio decided to sign a former Illiabum- PROLIGA american player with 28years old of age named Robert Cheeks (202-F/C-79, college: St.Bonaventure).
So far in the season Cheeks averaged 14.2 pts, 9.1 rebounds, 1.1 assists, 0.9 steals and 0.8 block shots in 18 games.
Thiago averaged 10.5 pts, 8.4 rebounds, 1.3 blocks, 1.3 steals and 0.8 assists.

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PUERTO RICO

Guayama notches first Win -by Luis Ramirez
The Guayama Brujos finally got their first victory at the expense of the Fajardo Cariduros 90-84. Guayama was determined to get its first win and started on fire the 1st quarter of the game, 28-17. They swarmed the Cariduros and took control of the game in the first half 50-36. In the 2nd half the Cariduros tried to make a comeback but the Brujos had done enough damage in the first half to cruise to their win. For Guayama, Rafael Perez (185-G-82, agency: Huss Sport Agency) scored 21 points while Matt Freije (206-F-81, agency: Priority Sports, college: Vanderbilt) followed up with 20 points. For Fajardo, Kevin Hamilton (193-G-84, agency: Paris Global Sports, college: Holy Cross) scored 24 points while Jesse Pellot scored 16 points.

In other BSN action, it seems that the San German Athletics have acquired a taste for winning in dramatic fashion as they did once again last night over the Bayamon Cowboys 75-73. The Cowboys took the 1st quarter 23-16 but San German came right back in the 2nd quarter to take the lead to end the 1st half 45-39. In the 3rd quarter the Athletics continued to dominate the game but in the final quarter things got tough as the Cowboys looking for their 2nd win gave it their all but simply came up short in their efforts. Ivan Lopez (208-C-85, agency: Next Level, college: Memphis) purposely missed a free throw attempt and was lucky enough to have his teammate Lee Benson come up with the rebound but Benson fell and could not get off the shot as time expired to end the game. For San German, Robert Lazor scored 20 points and grabbed 12 rebounds while Omar Alvarado (180-G-83, agency: Next Level) scored 16 points and had 7 assists. For Bayamon, Franklin Western (200-F-72, college: Providence) came up big with 26 points followed by Ivan Lopez with 12 points.

In the last game of the night the Santurce Crabbers kept their record immaculate as they got a win over Humacao 74-71. Humacao got a good jump offensively in the 1st quarter 26-16 and were leading at the end of the 1st half 44-35. In the 3rd quarter the Crabbers were able to chip into the lead but were still behind at the end of the quarter 58-54. In the 4th quarter the Crabbers played their best offensive game and kept the Grays to just 13 points in the quarter to get the win. For Santurce, Larry Ayuso (190-G-77, agency: Edge Sports, college: USC) scored 24 points followed by Luis Rivas (200-F-80, agency: Paris Global Sports, college: W.Illinois) with 12 points. For Humacao, Ricky Sanchez (212-C-87) scored 22 points and captured 14 rebounds followed by Roberto Nieves (194-G-82, agency: Paris Global Sports, college: Valparaiso) with 16 points.

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SLOVAKIA

Latest results and stats -by Eurobasket News
Pezinok sent another message that echoed all around the country by overcoming Slavia TU Kosice 89:91 on a road. The favorite of the Slovak league this year did not mind 26:15 in the last quarter, but luckily survived in the game. The guests had an advantage through the game as won the third quarter 16:27. Williams led the winners with 24 points. Marek Kozlik (187-F-86) nailed 20, while Snopko and Micuda added 16 each.
Pezinok is first at 25-6 while Inter is second at 23-8. Inter Bratislava topped MBK Rieker Komarno 100:84. After 23:30 in the opening quarter the hosts woke up and produced 27:18 in the second. Then Inter desired not only to win but to reach three digits on the board. The team solved the task to reach the 23rd win. Novak paced all the winners with 29 points. Pandula netted 23, while Micka had 18. Igor Majoros (200-F-80, agency: Promotex, college: SW Baptist) posted 22 points for Komarno that fell at 13-18.
In another games Chemosvit Svit beat BK Dolny Kubin 85:75 with 25:18 in the last quarter. Zachary Ingles (188-G-83, college: E.Kentucky) top-scored for the winners with 27 points and Tibor Kmetoni (196-F-72) scored 18 in defeat. Nova Ves topped Slovintegra Levice 76:66 in overtime as Jozef Bucak (207-C-81) produced 20 points. ESO CLUB Lucenec was stronger than MBK Handlova 85:69 with 20 points from Antonio Bicvic (199-F-82). Nitra edged HBK Prievidza 93:62 as Hill and Brock Gillespie (188-G-82, college: Rice) chipped in 21 points apiece.

Chemosvit Svit - BK Dolny Kubin 85:75 (24:17, 17:15, 19:25, 25:18)
Chemosvit Svit:Zachary Ingles 27, Sedmak 22, Pezer 12
BK Dolny Kubin: Tibor Kmetoni 18, Findura 17, Kurilic 16

Nova Ves - Slovintegra Levice 76:66 OT(14:19, 30:10, 6:19, 13:15 - 13:3)
Nova Ves: Jozef Bucak 20, Baldovsky 15, Ridzoň 14
Slovintegra Levice: Steve Rich (208-C-72, college: Miami, FL) 16, Klein 11, Ristanovic 9

ESO CLUB Lucenec - MBK Handlova 85:69 (25:13, 22:15, 17:14, 21:27)
ESO CLUB Lucenec:Antonio Bicvic 20, Praznovsky 17, Kovacevic 15, Tarabus 15
MBK Handlova: Milosevic 18, Stefanik 13, Golian 11

Nitra - HBK Prievidza 93:62 (19:20, 31:12, 22:15, 21:15)
Nitra:Hill 21, Brock Gillespie 21, Seman 17
HBK Prievidza: Hrvoje Puljko (193-G-83, agency: Interperformances) 27, Stevula 9, Immink 7

Inter Bratislava - MBK Rieker Komarno 100:84 (23:30, 27:18, 23:15, 27:21)
Inter Bratislava:Novak 29, Pandula 23, Micka 18
MBK Rieker Komarno: Igor Majoros 22, Jurik 20, Pivac 20

Slavia TU Kosice - SKANSKA Pezinok 89:91 (22:25, 25:24, 16:27, 26:15)
Slavia TU Kosice: Dejan Stojanovic (206-C-78) 26, Misinsky 25, Baťka 15, Probala 15
SKANSKA Pezinok: Williams 24, Marek Kozlik 20, Snopko 16, Micuda 16

Standings - D1
Extraliga Standings
1. Pezinok 25-6
2. Inter Brat. 23-8
3. Lucenec 20-11
4. Nova Ves 20-11
5. Svit 19-12
6. Handlova 15-16
7. Nitra 15-16
8. Levice 14-17
9. Komarno 13-18
10. Prievidza 12-19
11. Dolny Kubin 6-25
12. Kosice TU 4-27


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SOUTH KOREA

DONGBU PROMY KBL REGULAR SEASON CHAMPS -by Rick Ross
Dongbu Promy has Captured another regular season Title defeating LG Sakers
At Home 77-67, with a record of 36-12 now standing alone with 6 games remainning
And Closing in on perhaps another KBL Crown, Head Coach Chun Chang Jin has maintained
His Troops steady all season and is well deserving of the 1st Position going into the Finals.

The Battle continues with Samsung Thunders - KT&G - KCC and LG Sakers for the 2nd Spot
And best position to wait on the winners of the 6-3 and 5-4 match-ups come Play-Off Time.

Congrats..........! Dongbu Promy 2008 Regular Season Champs

Standings
KBL Standings
1. Dongbu 36-12
2. Samsung 29-19
3. KCC 28-19
4. KT&G 28-19
5. LG 27-21
6. ET 24-23
7. SK 24-23
8. KTF 19-28
9. Mobis 12-36
10. Orions 10-37


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SPAIN

Junyent to Estudiantes and Maras to La Palma -by Robert Mayor
- MMT Estudiantes was looking for a center and Oriol Junyent (207-C-76) is the chosen. Veteran center said no to Granada and has signed with capital team.

- German center Robert Maras (216-C-78, agency: Court Side) is new LEB Gold UB La Palma player for the remainder of the season. Freiburg center started the season in Greek team Egaleo where played untill few weeks ago. Maras has several Spanish experience after playing for Caja San Fernando, Ricoh Manresa and Llanera Menorca. Maras, 62 times international with Germany, will be a very important player in island team.

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SWEDEN

Öresundskraft lets go of "Action Jackson" -by Erik Sundberg

The Scanian team Öresundskraft Basket sends their American guard Damon Jackson (195-G-80, college: Fresno St.) back home. He has been injured for a long time but the club had hoped he would recover in time for the play off. Unfortunately he won't and that's why Öresundskraft Basket sees no other option than to let him go, they cant keep paying for a player they can't use in the games.

The 27-year old 'Action Jackson', as he has become known, signed with the Swedes in early September last year. He left Germany and a fabulous season with Duesseldorf behind him. The success in Sweden wasn't any less great, with a scoring average of 19,3 and impressive shooting percentages he has been one of Öresundskraft Baskets most important players this season.

That's why his minor injury that for some reason turned out much worse than expected was so unfortunate.

Öresundskraft Basket have earlier this year decided not to replace Damon Jackson.



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TANZANIA

Standings
RBA Kili League Standings
1. Oilers 0-0
2. T.M.Rokets 0-0
3. JKT 0-0
4. UDSM 0-0
5. Mgulani 0-0
6. Bosco Savio 0-0
7. Vijana 0-0
8. Cargo 0-0
9. Magone 0-0
10. Chamg ombe 0-0
11. ABC 0-0
12. Pazi 0-0
13. Sinza 0-0
14. Mwanza 0-0
15. Tegeta 0-0
16. Magereza 0-0


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

Efes Pilsen lost again -by Onur Decani

Efes Pilsen played an away match against Panathinakos in the 4th week of group D in Euroleague Top 16. Efes Pilsen was playing a match after 2 defeats in the Euroleague , also 1 defeat against Besiktas Cola Turka in the Beko TBL. Efes Pilsen lost in this match too , the score was 74-65. Now they are in the last place of the group D with just 1 win (against Panathinaikos in Istanbul 74-64) and they have 3 loses. Now their chance to qualify to the quarterfinals is very difficult.
Anyway Efes Pilsen had a good start of the match with Andre Hutson (202-F-79, college: Michigan St.) (202-F-79, college: Michigan St.) and Kenny Gregory (197-G/F-78, college: Kansas) (197-G/F-78, college: Kansas) (197-G/F-78, college: Kansas) , getting a 6-0 advantage until 2 minutes were played since the match start. Efes Pilsen continued scoring with Scoonie Penn (178-G-77, college: Ohio St.) and Kenny Gregory to make a 10 points difference just in the 6th minute.Panathinakos attempted to make an advantage but Efes Pilsen finished the 1st period 20-15. Panathinaikos get a draw in the start of 2nd period (11th minute) with Vasilis Spanoulis (193-G-82, agency: Beo Basket) (193-G-82, agency: Beo Basket) (20-20).Anyway Efes Pilsen get an advantage again in the 15th minute (27-26). Then Efes Pilsen used Andre Hutson (202-F-79, college: Michigan St.) to score points and get an advantage 33-28 in the 17th minute. Also scoring with Kerem Gonlum (208-C/F-77) (208-C/F-77) Efes Pilsen closed the 1st half with 7 points difference (38-31) . The 2nd half was different , now Panathinaikos was the leading team. They got the advantage 43-42 in the 24th minute and made a 6 points difference (52-46) in the 27th minute.Efes Pilsen minimized the advantage of Panathinaikos to 2 points with a triple of Kenny Gregory . In the end of the 3rd period the score was 54-52. Efes Pilsen get a draw in the start of the last period and they were in advantage 60-57 , 5 minutes to the game end. But Panathinaikos started doing their own in that minute. They made the score 61-60 with Michael Batiste (203-F-77, college: Arizona St.) (203-F-77, college: Arizona St.) (203-F-77, college: Arizona St.) in the 36th minute. They were 3 points ahead 3 points before the end of the game and they scored 9 points too before the game end , the score was 74-65 .

The key player of this match for Panathinaikos was Michael Batiste with 20 points and 6 rebounts. Also for Panathinaikos Vasilis Spanoulis scored 15 points and 4 rebounds , Dimitris Diamantidis (196-G-80) 11 points - 6 rebounds - 5 assists and Dimos Dikoudis (207-F/C-77, agency: Court Side) scored 12 points.

The top scorer of Efes Pilsen in this match was Andre Hutson who scored 21 points and also made 8 rebounds. Kenny Gregory scored 12 points while Ender Arslan (190-G-83) scored 9 points and Kerem Gonlum end the match with 7points - 6 rebounds.


Panthinaikos(74): Nikos Hatzivrettas 7 , Sani Becirovic 2 , Dimitris Diamantidis 11 , Michael Batiste 20 , Fragiskos Alvertis 0 , Vasilis Spanoulis 15 , Sarunas Jasikevicius 3 , Kennedy Winston 2 , Dimos Dikoudis 12 , Andrija Zizic 2

Efes Pilsen(65): Scoonie Penn 7 , Mustafa Abi 6 , Kenny Gregory 12 , Ermal Kurtoglu 3 , Andre Hutson 21 , Kerem Gonlum 7 , Ender Arslan 9 , Bora Pacun 0 , Baris Hersek)


(15-20 , 31-38 , 54-52 , 74-65)



Starts the countdown for Beko All Star 2008 -by Onur Decani
The 2008 edition of annualy orginizing Beko All Match will be played at March 23 , 2008 . The organization will be held in Istanbul , Abdi Ipekci Arena . The most important event of that night will be the All Star Match that will be played between the team of turksih players and the team of foreign players who play at Beko Basketball League. Also there will be several activities and other basketball competitions . The players that will parcipiate are not chosen yet , but we will be able to see that in the following days.

Besiktas won the derby against Galatasaray -by Onur Decani

In the 23rd week of the Beko TBL in Darussafaka Ayhan Sahenk Sports Centre , Galatsaray Cafe Crown meet in a derby match the league leaders Besiktas Cola Turka. Besiktas Cola Turka started the match as leaders while Galatasray was in the 4th place with 2 victories less then Besiktas. Whwn we just look the match result it doesn't seems like a derby match , because Besiktas Cola Turka win the match with 17 points differnce , 83-66.

Besiktas started scoring with Predrag Drobnjak (212-F/C-75) and Sinan Guler (192-G-83, college: Carroll (MT)) and took a 6-5 advantage in the 4th minute.But Tufan Ersoz (197-F/G-80) (197-F/G-80) came from the bench to score triples and Galatasaray draw the result 18-18 in the end of 1st period. The two sides started the second period bad , each team scoring 2 points in 4 minutes.Then Galatasaray started scoring with Charles Gaines (201-F-81, college: S.Mississippi) , also Besiktas was succesfull with Preston Shumpert (198-G-79, college: Syracuse) (198-G-79, college: Syracuse) (198-G-79, college: Syracuse) and Sandro Nicevic (210-C-76, agency: Beo Basket) . The score in 18th minute was 30-30 . The two sides were scoring , while the first half closed with 2 point difference of Besiktas (38-36). Besiktas had a good start in the 2nd half with a 10-3 serie mostly affectable with Christian Dalmau (194-G-77, agency: Paris Global Sports, college: Daytona Beach CC) and Preston Shumpert to take the advantage 48-39 in the 24th minute. They countinued scoring to make the score 61-45 in the end of the 3rd period. In the start of the 4th period Galatasaray took down to 11 points the advantage of Besiktas with baskets of Charles Gaines and Britton Johnsen (208-F-79, college: Utah). But Besiktas had a fast response with Preston Shumpert to make the score 70-55 in the 37th minute and then win the match 83-66

The most scoring player from Besiktas Cola Turka in this match was Preston Shumpert who scored 20 points - 5 rebounds 3 another players from Besiktas also scored double points : Rick Apodaca (192-G-80, agency: World Sport Agency, college: Hofstra) 15 points - 4 rebounds - 4 assists , Sinan Guler 13 points - 5 rebounds - 4 assists and Christian Dalmau 11 points - 4 assists.

In the other side Charles Gaines scored double-double 24 points - 12 rebounds to be the most scorer of the match. For Galatasaray Cenk Akyol (200-G-87) played with 9 points , Tufan Ersoz and Britton Johnsen with 7 points each and Robert Hite (188-G-84, college: Miami, FL) with 6 points - 4 rebounds - 4 assists.


Galatasaray(66): Cuneyt Erden 2 , Robert Hite 6 , Cenk Akyol 9 , Chris Owens 6 , Charles Gaines 24 , Cemal Nalga 2 , Tufan Ersoz 7 , Rifat Murat Kaya 3 , Britton Johnsen 7 , Brown 0

Besiktas(83): Christian Dalmau 11 , Rick Apodaca 15 , Sinan Guler 13 , Kaya Peker 5 , Predrak Drobnjak 9 , Mehmet Yagmur 0 , Sandro Nicevic 8 , Preston Shumpert 20 , Cevher Ozer 0 , Erkan Veyseloglu 2


(18-18 , 36-38 , 45-61 , 66-83)

Preston Shumpert (198-G-79, college: Syracuse)

Standings - TBL
TBL Standings
1. Besiktas 18-5
2. Efes P. 16-6
3. T.Telekom 15-7
4. Antalya 15-7
5. Galatasaray 15-8
6. Fenerbahce 14-8
7. Karsiyaka 14-8
8. Kepez Bld 11-11
9. Mersin 9-13
10. Banvitspor 9-13
11. Alpella 8-14
12. TED Koleji 8-14
13. Oyak Renault 7-15
14. Selcuk Uni. 7-15
15. Beykoz 6-16
16. Darussafaka 5-17


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U.S.VIRGIN ISL.

James helps Coast Guard to first ever post season win -by David Edole
Hartford — Maybe this was why the celebration after the conference championship game was so subdued last weekend. Maybe they had a hint of the unwritten script and how there was more history to be made.
And made with an exclamation point.
Yes, at 8:47 p.m. on a Thursday night 50 miles from campus, Coast Guard Academy won the first NCAA tournament game in the history of the men's basketball program. The Bears seemingly had to crawl over a mile of broken glass by the end, but they held off Trinity, 70-65, before 1,300 howling fans at Ray Oosting Gym.
Coast Guard, with a school-record 22 wins, plays for a berth in the Division III Sweet 16 at 7 p.m. Saturday night at UMass-Dartmouth. Coast Guard not only won its 11th straight game, but can earn coach Pete Barry's 400th career win with a victory Saturday night.
The Bears trailed by 11 early and led by 13 late, before the Bantams, the champions of the elite New England Small College Athletic Conference, went on a safety blitz to get within a point.
When it was over, associate head coach Bob Bono bearhugged Barry, just before the two busloads of cadets rushed the floor in the happiest and wildest victory celebration in program history.
'This is a team you dream of,' Barry said. 'This is a once-in-a-lifetime chance for me, the academy and these people.'
The Bears trailed 19-8 early until Barry inserted freshman Jevon James (193-F) into the game. Bono, who calls him 'big-game James,' could have pointed to the floor Thursday night and said, 'See why I call him that?'
James finished with eight points, seven rebounds and three blocks, but perhaps more importantly, gave his team an early belief. Coast Guard held Trinity without a point for 8:08 after James entered the game.
'I have no role on this team,' said James, who comes from the Virgin Islands. 'I sit there and watch some of the best players I've ever seen. I don't have that much basketball skill either. But I can work hard.'

Anthony is latest nemesis for Bell on defense -by David Edole
Jerry Brown, Tribune
DENVER - Saturday it was Andre Igoudala. Tuesday it was Brandon Roy. Wednesday? Meet Carmelo Anthony.
No player has been more affected by the departure of Shawn Marion than Raja Bell (196-F/G-76, agency: Interperformances, college: Florida Intern.), trying his best to match up with assignments that usually fell to Marion during his first 2˝ years as a Sun.

At 6-foot-5 and 215 pounds, Bell had little success when Anthony, listed at 6-8 and 230-pound went inside and collected 30 points and 13 rebounds in Denver's 126-113 win.

'It's my job. But on a night like this when I'm giving up a good 30 pounds and three inches to the kid ... and when they are calling the game the way they called it, there wasn't much I could do with the kid,' Bell said. 'He's going to have me under the rim.

I'll fight until I can't no more, but he's too big.'

Bell picked up three fouls in the first half as Anthony continually pulled him down into the paint for post-ups. 'He walks right down the court and tries to bury me under the rim,' Bell said. 'What do you do? I tried to let him run me over and that didn't work. I tried to body him, that didn't work. It was frustrating.'

The Suns might have survived that, but with Allen Iverson pouring in 30 and J.R. Smith and Anthony Carter combining for another 31, the Nuggets just had too much..

'It's unfortunate because we felt like we'd started to do some good things last night,' Bell said. 'This is a setback.'

Elegar Collects Conference Honors -by David Edole
Drexel senior Frank Elegar (206-C-86) was named Second Team All-Colonial Athletic Association and was selected to the conference's All-Defensive Team. The center led the team with averages of 13.9 points and 8.2 rebounds per game. His 1.97 blocks per game ranked third best in the CAA during the regular season. Elegar was also a Second Team All-CAA pick last season.

Elegar has scored 20 points in a game nine times as a senior and recorded nine double-doubles, including a 33-point, 17-rebound performance against Delaware on Jan. 5. For his career, Elegar is 15th all-time in scoring at Drexel with 1,270 points and is sixth in blocked shots with 137.

The Dragons will play seventh-seeded Delaware in the opening round of the CAA Tournament on Friday, March 7 at 6:00 p.m.

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URUGUAY

Newsome wil play for Goes in Div. 2 -by Walter Sobrero
In the meanwhile than the League is deciding if the foreign players who will play Division 2 this year, will or will not be allowed to play in Division 1 -which makes many of them wait until hiring-, Goes announced the signing of Reque Newsome (203-C-82, college: S.Indiana) to play in this team since April 11. It's the first time a foreign player is allowed in all Division 2, and not all the teams have decided yet what to do. There is also the chance of using the spot on a senior national player. But, the rumours are that only Urunday, Larranaga and Olivol won't bring foreign players.

Bigua defeated Hebraica 86-70 and it's one game far from Championship !!! -by Walter Sobrero
Atletico Bigua, defeated Hebraica Macabi in the second game of the finals of Uruguayan League 07/08. Atletico Bigua led all the game, with Leandro Garcia Morales (186-G-80, college: Texas A&M) with 19 points, and the foreign players Mark Alan Mark Alan Bortz (208-F-82, college: Buffalo) (208-F-82, college: Buffalo) with 15 points and 7 rebounds and Kevin Kevin Young (206-C-84, college: Missouri) (206-C-84, college: Missouri) with 18 points and 11 rebounds as standouts. In Hebraica Macabi, coached by Miguel Volcan seemed tired in the court and mentally defeated, Gustavo Barrera (194-G-85) with 15 points and Adrian Bertolini (191-G-78) wiith 11 were the scorers. Grady Reynolds (198-F-80, agency: Strategic Sports, college: St.John's) made 10 points and Letheal Cook (208-C/F-80, college: Bowie St.) 6.
With a young coach like Marcelo Signorelli who studied in USA and coached in Italy, Paraguay and Mexico.; the two best uruguayan players (Martin Osimani (194-G-81, college: Duquesne) and Leandro Garcia Morales), a great shooter and reliable player who is in the team for almost 13 years (Juan Jose Rovira (180-G-76)) and the best couple of foreign players inside the paint (Mark Alan Bortz and Kevin Young) Atletico Bigua is just one game away from being Champion of The Uruguayan League. The third game will be held on monday. After being runner up last season, Bigua wants to win the title. And Hebraica, a well known and important team who is coming from Division 2 it's a great season despite the problems they had regarding finding a foreign player to help Grady Reynolds. Will be the last one on monday ?

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VENEZUELA

Standings - LPB
LPB Standings
1. Gaiteros 3-0
2. Trotamundos 2-0
3. Cocodrilos 2-1
4. Guaiqueries 2-1
5. Gatos 2-1
6. Panteras 1-2
7. Gigantes 0-1
8. Dep.Tachira 0-1
9. Marinos 0-2
10. Guaros 0-3


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WABA

WABA for Clubs 2008 (Iran 6 - 19 March) -by Mohammed Malas
The West Asian Basketball Championship for clubs will begin next sunday under the host of Petrochimi Imam Harbour club of Iran and will resume until of March, Three teams from different countries will qualify to Asian Clubs Championship in Kwuait next may.

8 Teams from 6 countries will participate in this tournament, They will be divided into two groups in the draw which will be made tomorrow.....

- The participating teams are:
Petrochimi Imam Harbour (IRI) - Hosts
Saba Battery (IRI)
Zain (JOR)
Orthodox (JOR)
Sporting Al Riyadi Beirut (LEB)
Al Ittihad Aleppo (SYR)
Al Ahli Sanaa (YEM)
Al Hilla (IRQ)

Petrochimi Imam Harbour will have the services of their rival team Mahram's imports Tony Madison (197-G-71, agency: China-Hoop, college: New Orleans) and Art Long (206-F/C-73, college: Cincinnati) with the coach Mustafa Hashemi , While Saba Battery will be forced to change their injured point guard Makan Dioumassi (191-G-72) with the american guard Mike Jones (196-G-75, college: TCU) who was one of the best imports in the Iranian league, The team's second import is the giant Garth Joseph (217-C-73, college: St.Rose (NY)).

While the jordanian teams are also ready for the championship, Orthodox is coming to iran with a full roster adding to two good imports (Chris Campbell (194-G/F-81, agency: 011 Sports, college: Harding) and Kelly Wise (208-F-80, college: Memphis)), From the other side, Zain will loose the abilities of 3 of their stars due to injuries (Rasheim Wright (193-G-81, college: District of Col.), Sam Daghlas (197-G-79, college: Midwestern St.) and Enver Soobzokov (193-G/F-78, college: Cal.St.-San Bernar.)) but there are still some good weapons in Maz Trakh 's hands such as the imports Nate Johnson (199-F-77, college: Louisville) and Soumaila Samake (215-C-78, agency: CAA Sports) alongside with Moussa Al Awadi (190-G/F-85), Zaid Al Khas (205-C-76, college: Gannon) and Islam Abbas (201-C-80) who will play with the team in this tourney.

Al Ittihad of Syria and Al Riyadi of lebanon prepared themselves very well to fight for a place in Kuwait, As for syrians, Tyrone Washington (208-C/F-76, agency: Interperformances, college: Mississippi St.) was the latest add to the team who will also have Jay Joseph (193-G-82, agency: Pro Management Agency, college: NC-Greensboro) and other good locals who are willing to help the team to acheive their goal leaded by Salah Shawa (198-F-79), Ali Diarbakrly (180-G-82) and Firas Al Masri (195-F-83), While Fadi El Khatib (197-F-79, agency: Pro Management Agency) and the egyption pharo Ahmad Ismail (201-F-76) will lead the lebanese roster with very talented players and fighters in the field.



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Women News

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ARMENIA - Women

Aleksan top-scored against the defending champions -by Eurobasket News
Zaruhi Aleksan (194-82) top-scored against the defending champions in Slovak Republic. In the Play-offs for the 1-6 places the battle for the 3-5 places is only beginning. If KOSIT 2013 and MBK Ruzomberok stay on top of the standings than Nitra, Victoria and UMB struggle for the third.KOSIT 2013 smashed Slavia UMB Banska Bystrica 38:99 on a road. After 17:18 in the opening quarter the guests did not like the way the game had scenario and produced 4:37 in the second. It was not a big problem to lead the game to another victory. Michulkova was unstoppable with 38 points. McCarvillova netted 20, while Kovacova scored 10. Zaruhi Aleksan was the only player to reach double digits scoring 12 points for the hosts.

Slavia UMB Banska Bystrica - KOSIT 2013 Kosice 38:99 (17:18, 4:37, 7:19, 10:25)
Slavia UMB Banska Bystrica:Zaruhi Aleksan 12, Simova 8 Mehmedic 8
KOSIT 2013 Kosice: Michulkova 38, McCarvillova 20, Kovacova 10

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BRAZIL - Women

Stats Leaders - Women
CNBF Stats Leaders
Points Per Game
1 Iziane, Ourinhos 25.6
2 Clarissa, Flum. 22.3
3 Iris, Florian. 18.2
4 Karla, Catanduva 17.6
5 Ariadna, Catand. 16.3
Rebounds Per Game
1 Clarissa, Flum. 15.5
2 Iris, Florian. 11.0
3 Lisdeivi, Ourinhos 10.1
4 Simone, S.Andre 9.7
5 Angeloni, Nassau 7.9
Assists Per Game
1 Natalia, Catanduva 7.1
2 Gattei, Ourinhos 5.7
3 Gigi, Nassau 4.3
4 Manfredi, Bernard 4.0
5 Bethania Ourinhos 3.6
Steals Per Game
1 Iris, Florianopolis 3.1
2 Fabiana, Nassau 2.8
3 Tayara, Nassau 2.8
Blocks Per Game
1 Josiane, Botafogo 1.6
2 Lisdeivi, Ourinhos 1.5
3 Simone, S.Andre 1.3
2FGP
1 Natalia, Catand. 61.4
2 Cintia, S.Bernard 59.2
3 Iziane, Ourinhos 58.3
3FGP
1 Angeloni, Nassau 42.9
2 Priscila, S.Bernard 42.6
3 Fabiana, Catandu.40.6
Free Throws
1 Angeloni, Nassau 42.9
2 Priscila, S.Bernard 42.6
3 Fabiana, Catandu.40.6


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CAMEROON - Women

Collegiate News: Alice Jamen 2008 Big ten Conference Champion!!! -by Yann Tientcheu

Alex Tchangoue (180-G/F-85) of Wake Forest University was named to the 2008 All-ACC Academic Women's Basketball Team. The Junior, who is averaging 11.4pts and 6.8rbds per game this season had 11pts, 5rbds, 5Asts and 2 steals in the first round game opener of the ACC Tournament against Florida State on March 6th. The deacons were closed to accomplish an upset when they fell 52-57.

Alice Jamen (191-F) and the Buckeyes of Ohio State University are the 2008 Big 10 Champs and the senior class of the team, which Jamen is part of is the winningest of the history of the Buckeyes with 109 wins. Jamen is Averaged 1.5pts and 2.2rbds, spending 6mns on the floor per game. Good Job Jamen!!!

Amina Njonkou (185-F-88) keeps cruising past the competition. The 6-1 junior from Foumban, signed 18pts and 5rbds against UCLA on march 1st after recording 12pts and 6rbds against USC on feb 28th. Ndjonkou is currently averaging 13pts and 7.2rbds per game. Her teammate and countrywoman, Beatrice Bofia is averaging 17.4mns per game, scoring 3.4pts and grabbing 3.4 rbds.

Michelle Messaga (1m88-C) is gradually establishing herself as a pillar of the Mississipe valley State University Women's basketball program. Messaga posted 7pts and 9rbds on march 1st against Jackson State University in a 50-56 loss. It was the 2nd consecutive loss of Mississipi Valley after the February 25th loss to Prairie View A&M (53-67) during which she scored 8pts and had 3rbds.



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EUROCUP (W) - Women

EuroCup Women 2008 semifinals. First games -by Eurobasket News
Galatasaray beat Beretta-Familia Schio in the first semifinal game of the teams. A 63:55 victory gave the Turkish side 8 points advantage before the second game in Italy. Galatasaray out-scored the Italian guests 9-0 to close the game as Vickie Johnson (177-G/F-72, college: Louisiana Tech) led the winners with 19 points. Petra Ujhelyi (192-C-80, college: S.Carolina) added 15 points and Sophia Young (186-F-83, college: Baylor) collected 11 points. Deanne Butler (169-G-81) ended up with 14 points in the losing clause.
Two players from Elitzur Ramla solved the first game between Elitzur Ramla and BC Moscow in the semifinal of EuroCup. Israeli team beat Russian representative 80:74 as Shay Doron (175-G-85, college: Maryland) top-scored with 30 points and 8 rebounds. Baker followed her with 25 points and as a total 55 points from two of them were too much for Moscow team. Monique Currie (183-G/F-83, agency: Ronsport, college: Duke) 's effort was noticeable as she ended up with 30 points and 12 rebounds. Plenette Pierson (188-F/C-81, college: Texas Tech) netted 10 and Beglova had 9.
Elitzur Ramla grabbed the control of the game in the opening tip as Shay Doron scored four points for 6:2. Israeli team led 19:14 but Russian squad was able to tie the score after the first ten minutes. Shay Doron poured another five points in a row as her team created 19-5 run. The game saw one team leading the game at that time when Ramla had 38:25 advantage. And Ina Gourevitch (180-G-68) closed the first half with a lay-up for 40:29.
BC Moscow did not change in the beginning of the second half and trailed even 15 points. Baker kept Elitzur ahead 52:39 midway throughout the third period. It was the time for the guests to come back to the game and 16:24 was a good answer for it.
Elitzur Ramla opened the last period with 10-2 surge to take 66:55 lead. Israeli team realized that the trip to Moscow on the March 12th would be a tough one and the deficit had to be bigger. BC Moscow's task was to stay closer and they managed to end the game with 80:74. A loss in the first leg, but 6 points should not be a problem for the Russian squad at home.

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EUROLEAGUE (W) - Women

Brno will host Euroleague Final Four -by Eurobasket News
FIBA Europe mentioned that Gambrinus Brno will host EuroLeague Final Four this year. The semi-finals taking place on 11th April and the finals two days later on 13th April.

As you know four teams advanced to the Final Four after a tough road to it. Probably the most difficult way was for Czech champions Gambrinus that beat the odds and celebrated a tough 75:69 road win over Ros Casares to claim the last available spot in the Euroleague Final Four. Gambrinus were on verge of losing the series after falling short to Ros Casares in the first game of the series. But the Czech outfit recovered and struck back winning back-to-back encounters and coming from behind to book the Final Four birth. So Gambrinus now has a chance of repeating their success of 2006 when they triumphed in the Euroleague.
Bourges Basket will be the opponent of the hosts in the semifinal advanced to the Final Four with 72:74 win in Istanbul that allowed them to sweep the series over Fenerbahce. After 85:69 in France Bourges Basket realized that the road to Istanbul will be tough. Petrovic gave the guests 0-3 lead after the shot from the arc. Emmeline Ndongue (194-F-83) with a tap-in and then a free throw kept French advantage to 2:8. It seemed that the visitors would not have problems in the game, but they already had them in the end of the first period. Vardarli's three reduced the gap to 16:19. Sutton-Brown with a jump-shot brought the hosts the first lead at 25:24. In a back-to-back period Bourges Basket was still in front. Sutton-Brown sent both squads to the lockers making 31:34 margin. A lay-up by Emmeline Ndongue opened another battle for the teams in the third quarter. Fenerbahce could not tie the game but stayed 3-4 points behind. Belinda Snell made it 41:44 and then her three-pointer reached 43:48. Lepron brought her team 45:52 lead before the final quarter. The last period was the game between Bourges Basket and Cappie Pondexter who took the leading skills of her team. She made first eight points of Fenerbahce that still trailed 53:62. Sutton-Brown reduced to 60:65 with 3.35 to play in the game. Cappie Pondexter scores another 9 points in a row for 69:70. She was the last to pour in the game but her free throw only gave 72:74 as Dumerc's four free throws reached the aim.
UMMC Ekaterinburg has one of the best rosters now in the world. UMMC beat one of the favorites CSKA 94:90 and advanced to the Final Four. Agnieszka Bibrzycka (184-F/G-82, college: Abil.Christian) paced the winners with 22 points. Sandrine Gruda nailed 17, while Yelena Leuchanka collected 14 points and 12 rebounds. Becky Hammon top-scored for the guests with 24 points.
Spartak Moscow Region will defend the title being the champion of Euroleague last year.The team from Russia proves the ambitions in Euroleague this season. In the second game of the Quarterfinals the defending champions smashed Dynamo 58:98. Tatiana Shchegoleva (193-F/C-82) led the winners with 19 points and 9 rebounds. Lauren Jackson and Diana Taurasi followed her with 16 points each.

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FRANCE - Women

Foreign players speak about their experience playing basketball in France -by Leslie Anderson

International basketball has become away of life in recent years. Every country has it own rules about the number of non residents allowed to play at any one time.

Today in France every club in the top division has at least one player from another country playing for them.

Some of these ladies speak about their experience in France.

Francesca Zara (177-G-76), Nicole Ohlde (193-F/C-82, college: Kansas St.), Laurie Koehn (174-G-82, college: Kansas St.) and Reka CZerny (190-F-81, agency: LBM Management, college: Harvard) from USVO all speak in English. Sonja Petrovic (189-F-89) and Sonja Kireta (198-C-76) speak in Serbian and Croatian while Belinda Snell (182-F-81, agency: LBM Management) adds some comments in English.

Just click on this link to listen:


Listen to the comments: of Shala Crawford, Zuzanna Klimesova, Anne-Maria Parau, Mia Fisher,Kirsten Mann,Liz Moeggenberg


Listen to the comments of: Sheana Mosch, Carla Thomas,Tamara Moore, Tiffany Stansbury



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ISRAEL - Women

Standings (W)
D1 Standings
Upper Playoffs
1. Bnot Hash. 16-3
2. Ramat H. 15-4
3. Elizur Ram. 14-5
4. Ramat Hen 11-8
5. M.Ashdod 9-10
6. Elitzur Holon 7-12
Lower Playoffs
1. B.Yehuda 8-12
2. M.Tel Kabir 4-14
3. Hap.T-A 3-18


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LATVIA - Women

Standings - LSBL
LSBL Standings
1. Cesis 25-0
2. Avantis T. 17-10
3. RTU/Klond. 16-10
4. Liepajas met. 16-10
5. TTT/Rapa 13-14
6. TTT Riga 12-1
7. Ridzene 9-18
8. SK Riga 5-23
9. LU/US 0-27


Stats Leaders - Women
LSBL Stats Leaders Stats Leaders
Points Per Game
Ozolina (Rapa) 20.0
Tillis (TTT) 20.0
Okonkvo (Cesis) 19.3
Malkevica (Rapa) 18.7
Niedola (Liepaja) 18.2
Rebounds Per Game
Niedola (Liepaja) 12.0
Crockett (Cesis) 10.8
Vitola (Riga) 10.4
Okonkvo (Cesis) 10.2
A.Eglite (Rapa) 10.1
Assists Per Game
Ose-Hlebovicka (Kl.) 5.9
Derevjanik (Cesis) 5.7
Eibele (Avantis) 4.8
Neimane (Cesis) 3.5
Z.Eglite (TTT) 3.5
Steals Per Game
Z.Eglite (TTT) 3.6
Okonkvo (Cesis) 3.5
Strupovica (Ridzene) 3.0
Blocks Per Game
Vitola (Riga) 3.9
Gailite (TTT/Rapa) 1.9
Kityzina (TTT) 1.6
Ranking
Okonkvo (Cesis) 27.4
Niedola (Liepaja) 24.2
Kityzina (TTT) 22.7


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MALI - Women

Maiga will play in Final Four of Euroleague -by Eurobasket News
Czech champions Gambrinus and Hamchetou Maiga (185-G/F-78, college: ODU) beat the odds and celebrated a tough 75:69 road win over Ros Casares to claim the last available spot in the Euroleague Final Four. Gambrinus were on verge of losing the series after falling short to Ros Casares in the first game of the series. But the Czech outfit recovered and struck back winning back-to-back encounters and coming from behind to book the Final Four birth. So Gambrinus now has a chance of repeating their success of 2006 when they triumphed in the Euroleague. Ros Casares entered the game confident of their own strength. Delisha Milton-Jones and Katie Douglas quickly set the right tone with 4 consecutive points to put the hosts in front. But back-to-back treys from Tamika Whitmore and Zuzana Zirkova soon denied the deficit. The lead changed hands for a couple of times before Ivana Vecerova and Hana Machova capped the first frame with straight jumpers and put the visitors up by 7 points 21:14. Gambrinus maintained the gap and hen Tamika Whitmore scored 5 points in a row the Czech team enjoyed a 10-point advantage midway through the second term. Hamchetou Maiga and Tamika Whitmore added pain for the hosts as the margin grew to 14 points. Laia Palau and Katie Douglas converted a couple of free throws and Zuzana Zirkova sank a layup for a 40:27 Gambrinus cushion at halftime.
Elena Tornikidou and Katie Douglas teamed up for quick 7 points at the start of the second half and trimmed the deficit to just 6 points. Marina Ferragut soon nailed a three-pointer and Ros Casares climbed within 4 points from the visiting side. But Zuzana Zirkova and Jana Vesela dropped a bunch of free throws to restore an 8-point distance. Elisa Aguilar fired from downtown but her effort was immediately matched by Tamika Whitmore. Aguilar hit another three-pointer late in the third stanza, while Eva Viteckova replied with a jumper to make it 56:48 for Gambrinus after 30 minutes of action. The teams could not convert for almost two minutes at the start of the final frame before Zuzana Zirkova connected from beyond the arc stretching the lead to 11 points. Ros Casares responded with 6 straight points and cut the difference. When Elena Tornikidou dropped a jump shot the Spanish team closed the gap to just 4 points. But Zuzana Zirkova stepped up for Gambrinus and her massive treble iced the effort. Three free throws from Elena Tornikidou put Ros Casares within 4 points with 95 seconds remaining. Hana Machova was able to convert just one free throw, while Elena Tornikidou penetrated under the rim and accounted for two more points to pull the hosts within 3. Kulichova missed a layup but Jana Vesela was there to tap it in and made it a 71:66 game with 26 seconds on the clock. Elena Tornikidou was unstoppable at the moment as she completed a three-point play and Ros Casares trailed by only 2 points with 18 seconds remaining. However Hana Machova was deadly from charity stripe and Laia Palau missed her jumper to seal the win for Gambrinus. Hamchetou Maiga ended up with 4 points, 2 assists and 2 rebounds.Gambrinus will now take on Bourges Basket in the Euroleague semifinal on April 11.

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MOLDOVA - Women

Irina Krasnoschek signs with Tim-Scuf -by Eurobasket News
Irina Krasnoschek that started the season for Dynamo from Kursk joined Ukrainian Tim-Scuf. The player from Moldova has experience not only in Russian Superleague, but in EuroCup as well. Her great game Game 4 of EuroCup was when the team played against Kara Trutnov. Russian team had a road win over the Czechs 54:71. A 7:20 in the second quarter was fatal for the hosts that fell at 1-3. Irina Krasnoschek scored 8 points for only 10 minutes. In the first game for the team Irina Krasnoschek was one of the leaders scoring 14 points and making 7 rebounds.
Tim Scuf signed another player, Jennifer Fleischer from Israel and hopes to be a good representative from Ukraine in Baltic League. The first round Ukrainian side finished on a second place with only one loss. In the most interesting game that was played in Vilnius of Baltic League between Lithuanian Arvi and Tim-Scuf from Ukraine two teams showed the best games during the season and became the favorites of the league. In order to decide the winner of the season four quarter were even not enough for the battle. Arvi created 11-0 in overtime to take 99:88 victory. It was a game where Tim-Scuf could have also won. Ukrainian side trailed 25:20 after the opening quarter but then replied with 12:23 in the second.Arvi tried hard and caught up the opponent in the end of the game to tie it after the fourth quarter. Ukrainian team finished the regular season and will play in Group A with TEO, Laisve and Olimpia.

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MONTENEGRO - Women

Standings - Women League
Premier Standings
1. Jedinstvo 5-0
2. BC Kastel 5-1
3. Roling Niksic 2-3
4. Kotor 1-2
5. BC H.Novi 0-0
6. BC Rozaje 0-1
7. Rudar 0-5
Will join on later stage:
1. Buducnost -


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POLAND - Women

Standings - PLKK
PLKK Standings
1. Lotos 22-0
2. Wisla 20-2
3. T. Leszno 16-7
4. AZS Gorzow 15-7
5. Utex Row 14-8
6. CCC 12-10
7. AZS Poznan 11-12
8. LKS 9-13
9. MMKS Energa 9-13
10. MUKS Poznan 8-14
11. Cukierki 5-17
12. AZS J.Gora 2-20
13. Lomianki 1-21


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RUSSIA - Women

Doron and Baker upset BC Moscow in EuroCup -by Eurobasket News
Elitzur Ramla - BC Moscow 80:74 (19-19, 21-16, 16-24, 24-15)

Two players from Elitzur Ramla solved the first game between Elitzur Ramla and BC Moscow in the semifinal of EuroCup. Israeli team beat Russian representative 80:74 as Shay Doron (175-G-85, college: Maryland) top-scored with 30 points and 8 rebounds. Sherill Baker (174-G-82, agency: Ronsport, college: Georgia) followed her with 25 points and as a total 55 points from two of them were too much for Moscow team. Monique Currie (183-G/F-83, agency: Ronsport, college: Duke)'s effort was noticeable as she ended up with 30 points and 12 rebounds. Plenette Pierson (188-F/C-81, college: Texas Tech) netted 10 and Elena Beglova (173-G-87) had 9.
Elitzur Ramla grabbed the control of the game in the opening tip as Shay Doron scored four points for 6:2. Israeli team led 19:14 but Russian squad was able to tie the score after the first ten minutes. Shay Doron poured another five points in a row as her team created 19-5 run. The game saw one team leading the game at that time when Ramla had 38:25 advantage. And Gourevitch closed the first half with a lay-up for 40:29.
BC Moscow did not change in the beginning of the second half and trailed even 15 points. Sherill Baker kept Elitzur ahead 52:39 midway throughout the third period. It was the time for the guests to come back to the game and 16:24 was a good answer for it.
Elitzur Ramla opened the last period with 10-2 surge to take 66:55 lead. Israeli team realized that the trip to Moscow on the March 12th would be a tough one and the deficit had to be bigger. BC Moscow's task was to stay closer and they managed to end the game with 80:74. A loss in the first leg, but 6 points should not be a problem for the Russian squad at home.

Elitzur Ramla: Shay Doron 30+8 rebs, Sherill Baker 25
BC Moscow: Monique Currie 30+12 rebs, Plenette Pierson 10, Elena Beglova 9

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SAINT VINCENT - Women

Young's team wins first semifinal -by Eurobasket News
Sophia Young (186-F-83, college: Baylor) and Galatasaray beat Beretta-Familia Schio in the first semifinal game of the teams. A 63:55 victory gave the Turkish side 8 points advantage before the second game in Italy. Galatasaray out-scored the Italian guests 9-0 to close the game as Vickie Johnson led the winners with 19 points. Petra Ujhelyi added 15 points and Sophia Young collected 11 points. Deanne Butler ended up with 14 points in the losing clause. Trailing 54:55, Galatasaray made the opponents to fail and to convert on their final six possessions.The second leg is scheduled on 12 March.

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SLOVAKIA - Women

A battle for the third -by Eurobasket News
In the Play-offs for the 1-6 places the battle for the 3-5 places is only beginning. If KOSIT 2013 and MBK Ruzomberok stay on top of the standings than Nitra, Victoria, UMB and even Cassovia struggle for the third.
KOSIT 2013 smashed Slavia UMB Banska Bystrica 38:99 on a road. After 17:18 in the opening quarter the guests did not like the way the game had scenario and produced 4:37 in the second. It was not a big problem to lead the game to another victory. Luisa Michulkova (179-F-84) was unstoppable with 38 points. McCarvillova netted 20, while Kovacova scored 10. Aleksanan was the only player to reach double digits scoring 12 points for the hosts.
MBK Ruzomberok is second with 16-5 defeating Cassovia Kosice 74:46. A win in all the quarters was highly appreciated by the fans. Simona Podesvova (186-F-83) top-scored for the winners with 20 points. L. Wilson 18 nailed 18 and Palusna posted 13. Adriana Gresnerova (179-F-86) finished the game with 18 points in the losing effort.
INPEK UKF Nitra won over Viktoria in the battle for the third. Nitra took a control in the first half and had 12 points advantage after 20 minutes of the game. Gabriela Kubatova (172-G-84) paced all the winners with 24 points. Mracnova posted 13 and Sujanova had 10. Dasa Krasnockova (181-F-85) ended up with 13 points in the losing clause.

MBK Ruzomberok - Cassovia Kosice 74:46 (18:13, 17:13, 20:12, 19:8)
MBK Ruzomberok:Simona Podesvova 20, L. Wilson 18, Palusna 13
Cassovia Kosice: Adriana Gresnerova 18, Medviďova 8, D. Wilsonova 7

Slavia UMB Banska Bystrica - KOSIT 2013 Kosice 38:99 (17:18, 4:37, 7:19, 10:25)
Slavia UMB Banska Bystrica:Aleksanan 12, Beata Simova (184-87) 8 Mehmedicova 8
KOSIT 2013 Kosice: Luisa Michulkova 38, McCarvillova 20, Kovacova 10

Viktoria - INPEK UKF Nitra 55:65 (15:20, 12:19, 15:12, 13:14)
Viktoria: Dasa Krasnockova 13, Kovaľova 10, Pindrochova 9
INPEK UKF Nitra: Gabriela Kubatova 24, Mracnova 13, Sujanova 10

Standings - Women
Extraliga Standings
1-6 Places
1. Kosit 2013 21-0
2. MBK Ruz. 15-5
3. Nitra 12-8
4. Viktoria K. 11-9
5. UMB B.B. 11-9
6. Cassovia K. 8-13
7-10 Places
1. Poprad 9-10
2. Roznava 9-11
3. Myjava 2-17
4. Slovan 2-17


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U.S.VIRGIN ISL. - Women

Repeat-minded Lady Mustangs dissect opponent -by David Edole
Greg Abadie

Murrah's Lady Mustangs find themselves in very familiar and expected territory.

Thanks to their 54-37 Class 5A Girls State semifinal win over South Panola on Thursday before an estimated 1,200, the defending champion Lady Mustangs are only one win away from going back-to-back and capturing their eighth state title.

Murrah, ranked No. 3 in The Clarion-Ledger Super 10 and No. 5 nationally by USA Today, improved to 30-1 and will face Greenville at 7 p.m. Saturday for the 5A title.

The Lady Mustangs defeated the Honey Bees by three points for the North title in Tupelo and expect another tough battle.

'They led us most of that game, but LaSondra (Barrett) and Tanecka (Carey) stepped up and carried us that night,' said Murrah coach Anna Jackson, who led the school to all seven of its previous titles. 'Brandi (Simmons) didn't play at all. She was hurt the night before.'

The Lady Mustangs took a closer than expected 25-19 halftime lead over the Lady Tigers (24-8), as the game was delayed some 30 minutes with 23.3 seconds left in the second quarter after South Panola's Essie Thomas went down with an injury.

She was transported by paramedics to the hospital for X-rays as a precautionary measure, according to Tigers coach Ralph Stallings.

'We think she has back spasms or a disc (problem) which is a lot better than what we thought at first,' Stallings said.

Barrett, a Dandy Dozen senior and LSU signee, led Murrah with a game-high 19 points and 11 rebounds. She took a hard spill of her own on a rebound attempt early in the third quarter near the same spot that Thomas fell down.

'It knocked the breath out of me a little,' Barrett said. 'It was getting very physical, but you have to play through that. That's just part of the game.'

The Lady Mustangs, coming off a 12-day layoff, asserted themselves in the third quarter, converting several of their 11 steals for the game into easy layups for a 14-4 scoring advantage.

'It took us a while to get our legs back under us,' Jackson said. 'South Panola is a fundamentally sound team. We didn't take anything for granted with them. I have faith in my young ladies. I think they finally got over their jitters and started playing Lady Mustang basketball.'

Janice Okeke (10 points, 11 rebounds), Simmons (12 points) and Carey (six points) each scored four points in the decisive quarter as the Lady Mustangs went up 39-23.

'We played a pretty good game, the starters and subs,' Carey said. 'We just need to stay focused. It felt good to win a state championship last year, and it will feel even better this year.'

The fourth quarter saw the Murrah lead never get below double figures and even stretched to 21 in the final minute.

'We made more turnovers tonight than we have all year,' Stallings said. 'But the magnitude of this game and their size and intimidation factors and the name Jackson Murrah had a lot to do with that.'

South Panola's Vetorra Cole scored 17 points and gave the Lady Tigers their only lead at 9-8 on a layup midway through the first quarter.

GRIFFONS SEASON ENDS IN FIRST ROUND OF MIAA TOURNAMENT 78-63 TO WASHBURN -by David Edole
KANSAS CITY, Mo. - For the third time this season the Missouri Western Griffons would fall against the Washburn Lady Blues. The Lady Blues knocked down an MIAA Tournament record 15 three point shots in the 78-63 victory. This marks the fourth year in a row that Washburn has knocked the Griffons out of the MIAA Tournament. The Griffons end the season with a 12-15 record.

The Griffons came out ready to go in the first ten minutes of the contest as they traded baskets with the powerful Washburn team only trailing 17-15 with 9:59 left in the first frame. The rest of the way the Lady Blues would connect on numerous three point shots, which propelled them to a sixteen point lead, 40-24 at the half.

Western was led by Johnson as she scored seven points in the first half. Washburn's senior duo of Corkey Stiger and Jessica Mainz combined for 25 points and seven of the Lady Blues nine three pointers' in the first frame.

The second half did not get much better for the Griffons as WU would push it's lead to as many as 25 points at 61-36 with 12:33 left in the contest. Western would battle as it would cut the lead to 15 with 6:49 left. The two teams would each score 12 points the rest of the way. Washburn improves to 23-5 overall and will advance to play Northwest Missouri State or Missouri Southern on Saturday, March 8th at 12:00 pm.

Johnson and Lauren Nolke led the Griffons with 13 points apiece. Woods and Javois had 12 and 10 respectively for the Griffons. The Lady Blues were led by Corkey Stiger as she had 28 points making 10-of-21 shot attempts. Amanda Holmes finished the night with 21 points, while Jessica Mainz finished with 15 points making 5-of-6 three point shots.

The Lady Blues dominated the boards as it had 42 rebounds to the Griffons 21. Washburn had half of its rebounds on the offensive end of the floor. The Lady Blues also put up an MIAA Tournament record 36 three point attempts in the contest. They had 23 assists on 28 field goals made.

The Griffons took care of the ball well as they only had 12 turnovers, but gave up 18 second chance points in the contest.

The Griffon fans watched three seniors play their last game of their career in Chemia Woods, Jill Johnson, and Yanique Javois (176-G-86, college: St.Louis).

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UKRAINE - Women

Tim-Scuf adds 2 players in the roster -by Eurobasket News
In the latest games of the upper Play-offs Tim-Scuf grabbed a road win over Kozachka 70:82. To feel more experienced in the final games and to give the real battle in BWBL tournament the team from Kiev added two players in the roster.
Irina Krasnoschek that started the season for Dynamo from Kursk joined Ukrainian Tim-Scuf. The player from Moldova has experience not only in Russian Superleague, but in EuroCup as well. Her great game Game 4 of EuroCup was when the team played against Kara Trutnov. Russian team had a road win over the Czechs 54:71. A 7:20 in the second quarter was fatal for the hosts that fell at 1-3. Irina Krasnoschek scored 8 points for only 10 minutes. Jennifer Fleischer (191-C-84, agency: LBM Management, college: Pennsylvania) from Israel joined the Kiev roster as well. Both newcomers were the leaders in the game. Jennifer Fleischer collected 28 points and made 19 rebounds. Irina Krasnoschek nailed 14 points and made 7 rebounds. Isachenko top-scored for Kozachka with 23 points.
In EuroCup Ina Gourevitch (180-G-68) scored 5 points and made 2 rebounds as her Elitzur Ramla beat BC Moscow in the semifinal of EuroCup. Israeli team beat Russian representative 80:74 as Shay Doron top-scored with 30 points and 8 rebounds. Baker followed her with 25 points and as a total 55 points from two of them were too much for Moscow team. Elitzur Ramla grabbed the control of the game in the opening tip as Shay Doron scored four points for 6:2. Israeli team led 19:14 but Russian squad was able to tie the score after the first ten minutes. Shay Doron poured another five points in a row as her team created 19-5 run. The game saw one team leading the game at that time when Ramla had 38:25 advantage. And Ina Gourevitch closed the first half with a lay-up for 40:29.BC Moscow did not change in the beginning of the second half and trailed even 15 points. Baker kept Elitzur ahead 52:39 midway throughout the third period. It was the time for the guests to come back to the game and 16:24 was a good answer for it.Elitzur Ramla opened the last period with 10-2 surge to take 66:55 lead. Israeli team realized that the trip to Moscow on the March 12th would be a tough one and the deficit had to be bigger. BC Moscow's task was to stay closer and they managed to end the game with 80:74. A loss in the first leg, but 6 points should not be a problem for the Russian squad at home.

Standings (Women)
Higher Standings
Places 1-3
1. Dnipro 11-1
2. Kozachka 9-5
3. Tim-Scuf 8-4
Places 4-6
1. Chaika 6-7
2. Ol.-NAEK 5-8
3. Dynamo-NPU 0-14


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WNBA - Women

USA Basketball Women's National Team Resumes Training In Spain and offseason news -by Bruno Baltazar
Barbara Turner (6'0''-G/F-84, agency: Merit Sports, college: Connecticut), a former UConn star from Cleveland, has played it the WNBA with the Seattle Storm and the Houston Comets. She was traded from the Comets to the Connecticut Sun for Megan Mahoney today.

Also after a successful year in 2007 that saw the 2007-08 USA Basketball Women's National Team earn an Olympic berth and compile an overall slate of 19-0, the U.S. squad is scheduled to resume its training for Beijing in Salamanca and Valencia, Spain, March 14-20. Included in its 2008 Tour of Spain will be a contest against top EuroLeague pro team Ros Casares in Valencia on March 17 and a game on March 20 against Perfumerias Avenida in Salamanca. The USA's competition is currently ranked No. 1 (Ros Casares) and No. 2 in the Spanish League.

USA Basketball Women's National Team members slated to attend the 2008 Tour of Spain include: Seimone Augustus (Minnesota Lynx), Swin Cash (Seattle Storm), Katie Douglas (Indiana Fever), Katie Feenstra (Atlanta Dream), Lindsey Harding (Minnesota Lynx), Janel McCarville (New York Liberty), DeLisha Milton-Jones (Washington Mystics), Cappie Pondexter (Phoenix Mercury), Katie Smith (Detroit Shock) and Lindsay Whalen (Connecticut Sun). Additionally, USA Basketball has invited Los Angeles Sparks guards Temeka Johnson and Sidney Spencer to attend the Spain training camp.

'I am very excited to resume our training,' said 2008 U.S. Olympic Team head coach Anne Donovan. 'We have a chance to compete against the top two professional teams in Spain in March and then travel to Beijing in April and go against five Olympic teams in the test event. These will be the final two times our team will be able to train before the WNBA season begins. I'm looking forward to getting the players back on the court -- from veterans like Katie Smith and DeLisha Milton-Jones to newcomers who really impressed me last year like Janel McCarville.'

Donovan will be assisted on the sidelines by Connecticut Sun head coach Mike Thibault.

During the USA's Tour of Spain, the team will train in Valencia March 14-16 before taking on 2008 EuroLeague quarterfinalist Ros Casares on March 17 (time TBD). Following two more days of practice, the USA squad will travel to Salamanca to cap its training with a 12:30 p.m. (6:30 a.m. EST) contest against Perfumerias Avenida on March 20.

The USA National Team will have one final training camp before the 2008 WNBA season tips off. Beginning in Chicago on April 13, the U.S. will train through April 16 prior to traveling to Beijing for the April 19-27 Good Luck Beijing Tournament. Featuring six nations, including 2006 World Champion Australia, host China, Cuba, New Zealand and South Korea, the tournament will feature a single round-robin preliminary round with games played on April 19, 20, 21, 23 and 24. Teams will then be seeded for the April 26 finals based on records from the round-robin preliminary round with the top two squads facing off in the gold medal game.