EUROBASKET NEWS REPORT - 4/16/2008

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ARGENTINA

Quarterfinals: game 2 -by Facundo Iatzky

Penarol 2- El nacional 0

Regatas 1 - Quimsa 1
Huge victory of Quimsa who could win in Corrientes, where Regatas had lost just two games in the whole season. Julio Mazzaro (186-G-79) was outstanding with 29 points.

Regatas Corrientes (78): A. Montecchia 18, J. Martinez 13, R. Stanton 8, C. Robinson 14, R. Lopez 9 (St), D. Tintorelli 4, J. M. Rivero 9, R. Serantes 3, coach: S. Santander.

Quimsa (89): J. Treise 5, J. Mazzaro 29, C. Brown 15, W. McFarlan 15, G. Mikulas 15, (St), A. Reinick 2, S. Castineira 3, A. Rodriguez 0, V. Cajal 5 (x), coach: F. Demti

Libertad 2 - Quilmes 0
This time, libertad had not problem. Robert Battle (200-C-81, college: Drexel) was terrific in the second half and Quilmes had not good offensive game.

Libertad (81): Sebastian Ginobili 1, Pablo Moldu 9, Laron Profit 18, Andres Pelussi 13, Robert Battle 20 (St), Marcos Saglietti 7, Jorge Benitez 7 Juan Pablo Sartorelli 6. Coach: Julio Lamas.

Quilmes (65): Hernando Salles 10, Eduardo Villares 9, Carl Edwards 17, Harold Arceneaux 4, Ezequiel Dentis 2 (St), Maximiliano Maciel 14, Nicolas Aguirre 6, Diego Romero 3 Selem Safar 0. Coach: Oscar Sanchez

Boca 1 - Obras 1
With an amazing game of Gabriel Fernandez (204-C-76), Boca jrs defeated easily Obras and tied the serie.

Boca Juniors (83): Luis Cequeira 4, Devon Ford 16, Gustavo Orona 3, Leonardo Gutierrez 24, Gabriel Fernandez 30 (St), Alejandro Alloatti 4, Lionel Schattmann 0, Raymundo Legaria 0, Fernando Funes 0, Grady Reynolds 2. Coach: Gabriel Piccato.

Obras Sanitarias (62): Fernando Titarelli 5, Gabriel Cocha 9, Chris Jeffries 12, Fernando Calvi 5 (x), Tyler Field 4 (St), Lazaro Borrell 16, Facundo Venturini 7, Cristian Cortes 2, Daniel Chaher 2, Emilio Olsson 0. Coach: Bernardo Murphy

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BOSNIA

Suprise in Siroki Brijeg -by Elvir Halilovic

League 8, 2ND round:


Results:

Siroki Prima Pivo - Sloboda DIta 74:76

Igokea Partizan - Zrinjski Mik Company 101:80

Borac Nektar - Bosna ASA BH Telecom (Wednesday April 16TH)

Slavija - Grude (Wednesday April 16TH)


Siroki Prima pivo - Sloboda Dita 74:76
(24:18, 19:15, 15:20, 16:23)
Siroki Brijeg, SD Pecara; Att.: 500; Ref.: Jovanic, Karovic, Coric
SIROKI PRIMA PIVO: Bubalo, Grays 10, Stemberger 16, Dijan, Zupic, Sola 3, Spralja 12, Naletilic, Susak, Fajardo 16, Bethel 15, Ezugwu 2
Coach: Svan Velic
SLOBODA DITA: Halilovic, M. Milosevic 23, Hrncic 5, Halilbegovic, Albijanic, Persic, Tomovic, Tanasilovic, Matic 7, N. Milosevic 16, Jocovic 9, Ross 16
Coach: Senad Muminovic


Igokea Partizan - Zrinjski Mik Company 101:80
(29:22, 27:17, 24:22, 21:19)
Aleksandrovac, SD Nenad Bastinac; Att.: 900; Ref.: Kralj, Bijedic, Milosevic
IGOKEA PARTIZAN: Tosic 10, Patterson 2, Bocka 14, Stazic 15, Djurica, Vucuroviæ 16, Cup, Wright 10, Lydeka 18, Stefanovic 14, Kovacevic, Myron 2
Coach: Zoran Sretenovic
ZRINJSKI MIK COMPANY: Bisko 10, Sarenac 11, Norac, Petric, Oroz 2, Dzidic 8, Simovic 6, Brecic 18, Vuckovic 22, Buhac, Planinic 3, Grbavac
Coach: Nedeljko Zelenika



Standings - D2 Leagues
D2 Leagues Standings
A1 League
 1. Novi Grad 18-2 
 2. Limometal 16-3 
 3. Kakanj 15-5 
 4. Brcko 15-5 
 5. Velpak 14-6 
 6. Trica 7-13 
 7. Student T. 7-13 
 8. Play Off 6-13 
 9. Bihac 6-13 
 10. Lukavac 6-14 
 11. Velez 5-15 
 12. Bosnjak 3-16 
D1 Srpska Liga
 1. Mladost MG 19-3 
 2. Radnik B. 17-5 
 3. Bratunac 16-6 
 4. Varda 14-8 
 5. Rudar 14-8 
 6. Glasinac 12-10 
 7. Igokea II 10-12 
 8. Bijeljina 9-13 
 9. Wolf Security 9-13 
 10. Sutjeska 8-14 
 11. Mladost G. 4-18 
 12. Vrelo 0-22 
Herceg-Bosne
 1. Vitez 15-1 
 2. Siroki II 14-2 
 3. Zrinjski II 14-4 
 4. Rama 9-7 
 5. Brotnjo Citluk 8-8 
 6. Ljubuski 7-8 
 7. Odzak 7-8 
 8. Posusje II 5-9 
 9. Busovaca 5-12 
 10. Tomislav 5-12 
 11. Livno 1-16 


Standings - BIH League
D1 Standings
League 8
 1. Igokea 2-0 
 2. Bosna S. 1-0 
 3. Sloboda Dita 1-1 
 4. Zrinjski MC 1-1 
 5. Siroki 1-1 
 6. Slavija 0-1 
 7. Grude 0-1 
 8. Borac Nektar 0-1 
Places 9-14
 1. Posusje 10-14 
 2. Zenica Celik 10-14 
 3. Hercegovac 10-14 
 4. Leotar 9-15 
 5. Capljina 8-16 
 6. Vogosca 2-22 


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BRITISH VIRGIN ISLANDS

Chino represents Sharks in dunk off -by David Edole
Paul On The Ball Hewlett
These days when one calls the name of Randy ‘Chino' George in Sheffield, the word stardom comes to mind, as that is exactly the way he is treated in Yorkshire, as one of their sporting celebrities.

With the national slam dunk competition being staged in a few weeks, one might have wondered who would be chosen to represent the Sharks, but it was not even a debate for them as Randy, who has won the hearts of the people in Sheffield with his dunking ability, was the unanimous choice to represent their team during the final four weekend of the BBL ( British Basketball League) Championship Playoff finals in the NIA (National Indoor Arena) in Birmingham on Sunday, 4th May 2008.

The final four is far from a foregone conclusion for the Sharks, despite the fact that they have won their last six outings with one of the scalps over the weekend being the number two ranked Plymouth Raiders; the Sharks will have to win their next two games to make the final four. Plymouth, a team which the Sharks would have lost to comfortably six weeks a go, instead led from start to finish in their final home game of the season which saw a capacity crowd, and included two supporters from Virgin Gorda, UK-based Kelly Matthew and Jamille Horton who has braved the cold and traveled to the UK to see Randy play. Both men were greeted by the Sharks Mascot ‘The Dude' and were also invited to a special reception held for the players after the game.

In the game, the Sharks opened the first quarter with a quick run but the Raiders clawed back to end the first, 18-15. The Sharks then made a run in the second quarter leading by 40-28 with a minute left in the second but yet again the Raiders fought back to end the quarter, 42-34. The Raiders came out hard in the third and closed the Sharks down, tying the game three times before Sheffield made a run to end the quarter, 57-52. The fourth quarter tied up once with 3:30 left at 70 but that would be the last time for the Raiders as the Sharks won 78-73 for win number five.

At the reception after the game players where honored for their achievements and asked to speak, with the first player called to the mike being Randy George (200-F-81, college: Henderson St.). It must also be noted that George was greeted with a loud cheer and applause when he entered a packed room for the reception after the game, where food was also served. George spoke elegantly and promised the fans to go all the way in the playoffs.

The following night the Sharks went to Birmingham and blew out the last placed team by an impressive 96-71 margin with George maintaining his average of 12 points and 4 rebounds. This has set the stage nicely for the Sharks who have now moved up one place to fifth and a chance to get into the top four when they play the number one seeds the Newcastle Eagles away from home this coming Sunday.

Should the Sharks achieve the win they then get home court advantage in the first game of the playoffs where 1st place plays 8th, 2nd plays 7th, 3rd plays 6th and 4th play 5th. The winners will advance to the BBL Playoff semifinals on the 3rd of May on neutral ground at the NIA, with the finals being held at the same venue the following day.

Should the Sharks advance to Sunday's final then Randy George will be forced to pull out of the slam dunk as it is scheduled just one hour and a half before the finals on the 4th of May.

Commented George on the prospect of missing the Slam Dunk, 'I'm hoping we make it to the finals, but it's a double edge sword; if we make it to the finals that will keep me out of the competition, but if we happen to come up short of the finals, I will be there for sure'.

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CAPE VERDE

Another Cape Verdean signs for 1º de Agosto -by Pedro Gomes
Abdulai Faty will be a 1º of Agosto player, current leader of the Angola basketball championships. The Cape Verdean player, currently playing for Desportivo da Huila, will sign a contract for two years, with the option of another.

1º de Agosto's signing of Abdulai Faty is fruit of his excellent performances while playing for Desportivo da Huila, averaging around 20 points per game, and contributing to the remarkable performance of his team, which holds the fourth place in the Angola championship.

Manuel Travoada, ex-National team coach of Cape Verde and current coach of Faty, affirms that 'he has been playing well and gaining better physical condition to fight with Angolan, Portuguese and American big men in the low post, and he is growing in this very competitive championship. He will be a serious case in the future'.

Abdulai Faty,(205-C-85), former-player of Seven Stars, Bairro, Sporting of Praia, and Belenenses (Portugal), also played for the senior nation team, and hopefully it will be able to repeat itself when it's time for the pre-selection of the NT for the pre-Olympic qualifying tournament.

Cape Verde National Team for African Championships 2007 -by Pedro Gomes
#s#
#e#6


Correia


Houtman


Jorge


Barros


Mascarenhas
4 Antonio Moreira (196-F-76) of University of Massachusetts-Dartmouth (USA)
5 Odair Sanches of Seven Stars (CPV) (180-G-82)
6 Agildo Cabral of Pantera Nega Sal (CPV)
7 Aquiles Semedo (190-F-75) of ABC (CPV)
8 Mario Correia (189-G-78) of Maia Basket (POR)
9 Antonio Monteiro (-75)
10 Marques Houtman (190-G-79) of Desportivo 1. De Agosto Luanda (ANG)
11 Aldevino Lima (203-C-86) of Northeastern University (USA)
12 Mario Jorge (190-G/F-77) of CAB Madeira Funchal (POR)
13 Victor Hugo (192-C-71) of ABC
14 Tony Barros (193-F) of University of Massachusetts Boston (USA)
15 Rodrigo Mascarenhas (198-F-79) of Desportivo 1. De Agosto Luanda (ANG)
Coach: Emanuel Trovoada


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COSTA RICA

Standings - D1
NL Standings
 1. Barva 4-0 
 2. Santa Cecilia 3-1 
 3. San Luis Gonzaga 3-1 
 4. Liceo 2-0 
 5. Limon 2-2 
 6. Escazu 2-2 
 7. Perez Zeledon 2-2 
 8. UCR 1-3 
 9. Santa Ana 0-4 
 10. Goicoechea 0-4 


Barva alone at the top -by Gianni Pascucci
Thanks to the win, 78-53 over Universidad de Costa Rica, Ferreteria Brenes Barva is alone at the top of the National League table. The only other team yet undefeated is Liceo de Costa Rica, that is traveling to Mexico for the Liga Centroamericana Final Four. The best scorers of the last round were Jeffrey Spencer (189-F-81), who poured in 37 pts in the win of Santa Cecilia, 113-86 over San Luis Gonzaga, and Rayner Archer (-G), who scored 22 pts for Limon in the win, 131-77 over Coyotes Santa Ana.

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CUBA

Cubans Abroad -by Alessandro Fontana
CUBANS ABROAD
Following 'our fulano's' abroad
In Puerto Rico, Indios de Mayageuz was defeated by Cariduros Fajardo 79-65. Angel Caballero played 22 minutes with 13 points (6/7 2pts, 1/2 FT) with 6 rebounds and 2 steals.
Guayama was defeated by Santurce 66-80. Roberto Carlos Herrera, for Guayama, played 24 minutes with 2 points (1/8 2pts, 0/1 3pts) with 4 rebounds and 1 block.
In Argentina, It is play-off time, in the first game of the quarter of finals 2008, Obras Buenos Aires won against Boca Juniors 78-73. For Lazaro Borrell again a 'partidazo' with 20 points (8/16 2pts, 0/2 3pts, 4/4 FT) and 6 rebs in 24 minutes.
A. Fontana

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CYPRUS

Stats Leaders - A2
A2 Stats Leaders
Points Per Game
Prokopiou (Anagen) 16.1
Hristodoulou (Digenis) 15
Hatzifedonos (Olym) 15
Christodoulou (APOP) 15
Alexandrou(Anagen) 14
Antoniou (APOP) 14
Georgiadis (Philips) 13
Grigoriou (Anagen) 13
Papadopoulos(Paral)13
Rebounds Per Game
Koutsoloukas (Philips) 8
Papadopoulos (Paral) 7.5
Alexandrou (Anagen) 7.1
Hristodoulou (APOP) 7
Christodoulou (Digeni) 7 Grigoriou (Anagen) 6
Assists Per Game
Prokopiou (Anagen) 2.9
Georgiadis (Philips) 2.4
Papadopoulos(Paral) 2.1
Hatzifedonos (Olym) 2.1
Daniel (Digenis) 1.7
Steals Per Game
Karagiannis (Anagn) 2.1
Hristodoulou (APOP) 2.1
Alexandrou (Anagen) 2.1
Karvazonis (Digen) 1.5
Achilleos (Argon) 1.5
Blocks Per Game
Christodoulou (APOP) 2
Papadopoulos (Paral) 1.5
Hatzifedonos (Olymp) 1.1
Hristodoulou (Digenis) 1
Koutsoloukas (Philips) 1
Zagorov (Philips) 1
2FGP
Prokopiou (Anagn) 68
Antoniou (APOP) 65
Haralambus (Doxa) 60
Mihail (Achilleas Ag) 58
Christodoulou (Digen) 58
Zagorov (Philips) 57
3FGP
Christodoulou (Digen) 55
Philippou (Doxa) 54
Shiakallis (Olympos) 53
Papanikolaou (Philips) 50
Georgiadis (Philips) 50
Free Throws
Prokopiou (Anagen) 85
Hristodoulou (Digenis) 85
Hatzifedonos (Olymp) 83
Antoniou (APOP) 82
Mastoris (APOP) 82
Ranking
Prokopiou (Anagen)
Christodoulou (APOP)


Keravnos Strovolou to keep the captain? -by Chris Mammides

Keravnos Strovolou and President Paris Papaellinas stated (unofficially) that they would like to keep the architect of this season's title, and one of the top Cypriot players of the last decade, Giorgos Anastasiadis (194-G/F-77) in the Strovolos team.

This announcement was made just a day after the victory and the title over Aspis Apoel. It is more than obvious that the atmosphere (fortunately enough) changed in the Strovolos site and everybody (even the people that doubted Anastasiadis' value quite a lot, this season) are in favor of Keravnos' captain keeping wearing the red/yellow jersey of the Strovolos team.

Giorgos Anastasiadis though, will most probably think it over as in the middle of this season he wanted to leave Keravnos in order to join his ex team ENAD, especially when the coaching team of Keravnos Strovolou kept the natural leader of Strovolos team at the bench for numerous games without a good reason. No one can forget that in the European games the role of Giorgos Anastasiadis was limited and that was probably the reason why Keravnos failed.

Nevertheless, Eurobasket.com wishes all the best to the captain of Cyprus National Team.



Standings - Division B
Division B Standings
 1. A.Yermasogias 22-1 
 2. Philips Coll. 20-3 
 3. Doxa 16-6 
 4. Olympos A. 16-7 
 5. APOP Paphou 16-7 
 6. Digenis 15-7 
 7. Paralimni 13-9 
 8. Achilleas Agrou 11-12 
 9. Asteras 7-15 
 10. Enosis K. 4-15 
 11. Argonaftes 3-17 
 12. Onisilos 3-19 
 13. A.Yeroskipou 0-22 


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DENMARK

Another win for Bakken Bears -by Eurobasket News
Svendborg - Bakken 77:78

The Bakken Bears made a huge step towards defending their Basketligaen title. They overcame the Svendborg Rabbits in a dramatic battle in Game 2 and grabbed a 2-0 lead in the series. The Rabbits looked ready to challenge the league favorites and the defending champs in the second game of the final series but fell agonizingly short of victory. Svendborg stormed ahead in the opening stanza and built a 23:15 lead with 10 minutes gone in regulation. But the Bears adjusted their pace pretty quickly and struck back narrowing the gap to only 2 points at the interval 40:42. Svendborg still maintained the lead and due to the advantage under the rims stretched the lead to as many as 6 points after three-quarter time. But Bakken recovered late in the encounter. The experienced Bears' squad switched to full court pressure and forced the hosts to numerous turnovers. It paid off late in the game when the Bears jumped ahead and sealed the winning outcome in the dying seconds. Jason Siggers (193-G/F-85, agency: Strategic Sports, college: Albany) led the action with 24 points and 5 assists. Chris Christofferen nailed 17 points and grabbed 11 boards. Jarrett Howell (188-G-84, agency: Worldwide Hoops, college: Texas Arlington) responded with 22 points for Svendborg. Ivan Hoger (225-C-82, agency: Global Sports Plaza) secured 21 points and 14 rebounds in a loss. The home side outrebounded their opponents 45:38 but committed 18 turnovers down the stretch.
Meanwhile Amager claimed the Bronze medals of the championship after beating Horsholm 96:81. Matt Cooper (201-F-85, college: Le Moyne) notched 27 points for Amager. Peter Johansen (204-F/C-80, agency: Arik Krayn Services) added 15 points and 15 boards for the winners. The 79ers replied with 15 points from Christian Nielsen (201-F-86, college: Wagner).

Svendborg: Jarrett Howell 22, Ivan Hoger 21+14 boards
Bakken: Jason Siggers 24, Chris Christoffersen (218-C-79, college: Oregon) 17+11 boards, Andreas Jakobsen (187-G-83, college: Columbia (MO)) 12

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D-LEAGUE

Los Angeles Knocks Off 14ers in First Game of D-League Playoffs -by Surujh Roopnarine
The West Division runner-up Los Angeles D-Fenders (32-18) defeated the Central Division second place Colorado 14ers (29-21) 102-95 at the Staples Center. Up 93-90 late in the fourth quarter, Los Angeles capitalized on a late three from Cecil Brown then withstood a counter from Kaniel Dickens (6'8''-F-78, college: Idaho) as they outscored Colorado 31-26 in the fourth to move on to face their division rivals, the Idaho Stampede in Boise on Friday.
Los Angeles capitalized on Colorado's 25 team turnovers and were able to win despite shooting a woeful 2-15 from behind the arc. Errick Craven (6'2''-G-83, college: USC) led Los Angeles with a game high 22 points on 9-18 shooting. The match-up of NBA assigned players went to Taurean Green (6'0''-G-85, college: Florida) (Denver Nuggets) of Colorado who out dueled Coby Karl (6'4''-G-83, college: Boise St.) (Los Angeles Lakers) 16 points to seven, but Carl's team pulled out the victory. Veteran Billy Thomas (6'5''-G-75, college: Kansas) led Colorado with 20 points, but on only 6-15 shooting. It was a change of pace for Los Angeles from earlier in the season when they relied heavily upon the scoring of Sean banks and the rebounding of veteran Jelani McCoy. In this victory, Banks only accounted for 11 points in 22 minutes, while McCoy was an effective 6-7 from the field for 12 points to go along with eight rebounds.
14ERS: Billy Thomas (20p+6rb), Taurean Green (16p), Roderick Riley (14p+8rb), John Thomas (11p+10rb)
D-FENDERS: Errick Craven (22p+7rb+8as), Brandon Wallace (16p+12rb), Wendell White (17p+8st), Cecil Brown (17p)

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EGYPT

Ahly - Ittihad leave Egyptain cup -by Eslam Mohamed
In a two big surprizes Sporting and Shorta win their games against Ahly and ittihad
In Ahly Club el Ahly had a big trouble playing against Sporting without Tarek el ghanam although Ahly just beat Sporting in his Hall in Alexandria
the game ended with 76-60 for sporting
in Shorta Club was another big surprize when Ittihad fail to win this game
the game score was 67-64 for Shorta
this is the first time for Egyptain Cup competetion that two big teams leave the finals before the semi finals
we used to see the semi finals between the four big teams Ahly - Gezira - Ittihad - Zamalek
but this year it's different
i expect a very exciting games and results in this year finals

Quarter Final cup games -by Sherif Soliman
Egyptian cup games will be continued tonight. Ahly v.s Sporting, Gezira vs. Eastern company, Zamalek vs. EL Giesh army and Shorta polise vs. Itthad .Games start at 6 pm. The big teams will not face any resistance to reach the semi final, the only equal game will be Ahly vs. Sporting held in Cairo. This game is the last chance for Sporting to do something this season after the bad performance in the first round of the Super Six League last week. On the other hand Ahly will play the game with high spirit after beating Sporting in Alex last week and will never leave the chance to reach the semi final.

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EL SALVADOR

Standings - Liga Superior
Liga Superior Standings
 1. ExSAL 4-1 
 2. UTEC 3-1 
 3. San Marcos 2-2 
 4. Denver 2-2 
 5. Nacionales 0-0 
 6. Cosmos 0-5 


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ESTONIA

BC KRAFT MAKES THE PLAYOFFS! -by Ozell Wells
In a crazy weekend, BC Kraft defeated Dalkia Triobet 69-56 in front of their home crowd to advance to the EMKL playoffs. After starting the season 0-12 and facing a dismal future with no import players after the departure of troubled player Malcolm Battles, things slowly turned around. With the return of Greg McQuay (201-F-76, college: Purdue) who had been in a 2yr retirement, they quickly began outrebounding opponents as he led Estonia in rebounding at 11.47 per game. Coupled with Heiko Niidas (206-C-83) at 7.74rpg, Kraft used the leaue's two top 5 rebounders to battle from dead last place into an undefeated month of February, a winning streak to end the regular season and a place in the quarterfinals of the EMKL. With the teams constant chant of 'FAMILY', the BC Kraft Moobel players and coaches have stood & come TOGETHER, climbing out of the basement of the EMKL.

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ETHIOPIA

Ethiopian basket ball champion -by Yoseph Zemede
On the mid of may the ethiopian basket ball champion will held on jimma.jimma was one of the famous city which consists more cultural and historical events of ethiopia.hopefully many regions will participate at the ceremony beside to this the ethiopian higher clubs competion will schedul at the same calander and place more news based on this story will post as soon as i recieve from the ethiopian basket ball federation.

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EUROLEAGUE

Three years contract with Euroleague for Partizan Igokea ? -by Dragan Jankovski
According to the official statement of ULEB before the decisive game of Final 8 in Turin, one Serbian representative will most probably get a three years contract with Euroleague.

Namely, management of ULEB announced possible changes of the best European competition from season 2009/2010. It will take effect also on new contracts which have to adjust quality changes in European Basketball which happened since 2000, when Euroleague was founded. Thus, it is almost sure that one Serbian representative, who earns the most points from 2006 to 2009, will get an exclusive 3-years contract. It is almost impossible that any other team get close to Partizan Igokea who had fantastic Euroleague season, with 54 points while FMP follows with just 22.

Nothing is officially confirmed yet by ULEB but it is expected to happen on official Euroleague Assembly at the end of the season.

On Sunday's Euroleague Assembly it was also talked about proposal of new competition system. One of the biggest changes in Euroleague probably will be seen at the first stage where instead 3 groups teams will be placed into 4 groups.

MVP for April: Ramunas Siskauskas, CSKA Moscow -by Kostas Papadopoulos
In the 20 years of the Final-4 era until now, only two players have won consecutive Euroleague titles with different teams. CSKA Moscow's small forward Ramunas Siskauskas (197-G-78), who has been chosen April MVP by Euroleague Basketball, can become the third such player thanks to his own heroics when his team's survival was at stake in the Quarterfinal Playoffs against Olympiakos. With their versatile small forward pointing the way, CSKA became just the second team in four seasons to advance to the Final Four despite losing the opening game in the best-of-three playoffs. With CSKA's season on the line, Ramunas Siskauskas was unstoppable, averaging 22 points on 69.2% three-point shooting, 3 rebounds, 2 assists and 1.5 steals in two must-win victories against the Reds. Having won the Euroleague title last season with Panathinaikos, Ramunas Siskauskas now has the chance to match an accomplishment that is truly rare. In the Final-4 era, from 1988 to 2007, only two players - both among the 50 top contributors in the first half-century of European club basketball - have won back-to-back Euroleague titles with different teams. Dejan Bodiroga (204-F-73) did so with Panathinaikos in 2002 and Barcelona in 2003, while his teammate for the second of those trophies, Sarunas Jasikevicius (192-G-76, college: Maryland), won again in 2004 with Maccabi Tel Aviv. Ramunas Siskauskas, the MVP for April, can now become the third to do so at the Final Four in Madrid starting on May 2nd.
Euroleague Basketball's MVP of the Month honour is in its fourth season. Although statistics and performance index ratings are taken into consideration for the award, they alone do not determine who is honoured. The winner is named by Euroleague Basketball based both on his performance and his team's one during the previous month. The award for April was decided considering three Quarterfinal Playoff games played by eight teams during that month.
After having seen his old team and defending champion Panathinaikos eliminated in the Top 16, Ramunas Siskauskas and CSKA started April by suffering a rare home loss to Olympiakos that snapped the team's 27-game Euroleague winning streak in Moscow. Ramunas Siskauskas scored 12 points and went a perfect 7-for-7 from the foul line in that game, but otherwise struggled with his normally accurate shot. A week later at Athens, CSKA was again on the ropes, down 12 points after the 1st period to Olympiakos, when the series started to turn. Ramunas Siskauskas scored 5 points in the second period as CSKA surged into the lead and then came out after halftime and pumped in 9 more, including back-to-back triples, that suddenly put the visitors up 40-55 on the way to a double-digit victory. Ramunas Siskauskas finished with 20 points in just 21 minutes despite not getting to the foul line, having made 4 of 4 two-pointers and 4 of 7 triples. Back in Moscow for Game 3, he was even hotter. His 5-for-6 three-point, 3-for-5 two-point and 3-for-3 free-throw shooting never gave Olympiakos a chance to think of an upset. When Ramunas Siskauskas was done leading all scorers for both teams in those two do-or-die games, CSKA was headed for its sixth consecutive Final Four. Over the entire month of April, Ramunas Siskauskas averaged 18.7 points, 3.3 rebounds, 1.7 assists and 1.3 steals. He also made 61.5% of his two-pointers (8 for 14), 62.5% of his threes (10 for 16) and all 10 free throws he took.
Although its month started in the worst possible way, CSKA saved chance to win a second Euroleague title in three seasons with a team effort in which Ramunas Siskauskas stood tall. His willingness to create and take clutch shots, and his overall efficiency, often makes Ramunas Siskauskas seem a mistake-free player. No one is perfect, but Ramunas Siskauskas was nearly so in the month when his new team needed him most, making him an appropriate choice as MVP for April.
By the courtesy of Euroleague.net

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FINLAND

KORISLIIGA: Honka to the finals -by Rauno Hurmalainen

Korisliiga, Semi-finals, Game 4: Last season Finnish Champion Honka (Espoo) will be in the Finals also this season. Honka crushed YMCA Lappeenranta's
'Dream Team' tonight 81-61 (50-25) in the fourth contest and defeated YMCA LPR 3-1. The quarters: 29-8, 21-17, 16-19, 15-17 tell the language, that Honka
run away from visitor YMCA LPR already during the first 10 minutes: 7-0, 17-3, 29-8! Honka was so tough during the opening quarter and made YMCA LPR
seem so weak. Team, which won the regular season and played pretty well in the EuroCup during the winter. And Honka was playing without starter, PG
Petteri Koponen, who was on injured list (thumb fracture)! So, there will be regular season # 3 (Kouvot, Kouvola) vs regular season # 4 (Honka, Espoo) in

the finals starting on Monday, April 21 at Kouvola. Three victories will be needed to win the Championship. The same teams were in the finals nine years ago

1999. Then Kouvot won it all. The bronze game (YMCA LPR vs Torpan Pojat, Helsinki) on Saturday, April 19, at Lappeenranta.

Honka - YMCA Lappeenranta 81-61 (50-25) (Akeem Scott (186-G-83, college: High Point) 25, Kimmo Muurinen 14, Ben Perkins 13 - Adrian Henning (203-F-82, agency: EM-PA, college: Austin Peay St.) 16, Juha Sten 15, Ivan Harris 9).



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GERMANY

Regionalliga News -by Moritz Korff
Niklas Cox (186-G-83) is the name of the first new player who is going to join BG Dorsten for the 2008-2009 season. The team moved up to the Regionalliga West just recently and announced to have signed five new boys for the upcoming campaign. Cox is playing for the ETB Wohnbau Baskets Essen (2. Bundesliga Pro B) in this current season and is posting 2.8 points per contest.

Meanwhile, Dorsten's local -rival BSV Wulfen (Regionalliga) informed about the arrival of a pair of fresh players for 2008-2009. Steffen Hummelt (202-F-84), who attended the Bundesliga Rookie All-Star Game back in 2004 and 2005, comes from TV Salzkotten. The second one is Timm Schrader (193-F), a 27-year-old Wing. He shot hoops for Oberliga-side TV Friesen Telgte in 2007-2008.

Coach Koch gets contract extension in Bonn -by Moritz Korff
Michael Koch, the Head Coach of the Telekom Baskets Bonn (1. Bundesliga), signed a three-year contract extension Thuesday. The German basketball-legend (140 caps for the National Team, 1993 European Champion, 2000 Euroleague Champion, 1995 Germany's Basketball Player of the Year) came to Bonn as an Assistant Coach for Danijel Jusup in 2005. When Jusup had to leave his position Koch took over. In this current season the 42-year-old has good chances to guide Bonn to another play-off appearance, the 11th within the past 12 years.

Marcus Dathe to Lok Bernau -by Moritz Korff
SSV Lok Bernau (Regionalliga North) added the first new player to the roster for the 2008-2009 season. Marcus Dathe (180-G-87) will join the team of Coach Torsten Schierenbeck. The 20-year-old Berlin-native is a very talented Guard who suited up for Marzahner Basketbaeren (2. Regionalliga) in this past season and averaged a team-high 22.1 points per contest. Dathe has been a member of the German Junior National Team and wore the jersey of TuS Lichterfelde earlier.

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GREECE

A2: Market News -by Chris Mammides

Halkida is among the 'suffered' teams this seazon in A2, the club begun this seazon with many hopes and dreams even for the promotion but slowly-slowly everybody relised that the financial situation of the club was not the best feasible one, so one by one the players are leaving the team, so after Fotis Vasilopoulos (187-G-86) and Boris Dzidic (206-F/C-80), Giannis Kritikos (201-G/F-78) split ways with the Halkida club which will obviously go all the way down to the Second division.


The new Head Coach of Ionikos Lamias, Loukas Zaranikolas who replaced Branislav Prelevic who is now Techical Advisor and scouter in BC CSKA Interlogic Sophia in the Bulgarian league, allready set the goals for the coming seazon.



Stats Leaders - A1
A1 Stats Leaders
Points Per Game
Jaaber, Egaleo 22.4
Grundy, Panellinios 21.4
Massey, Aris 18.1
Keys, AEL 16.9
Pinnock, Kolossos14.26
Nikolaidis, Egaleo 14.26
Kiritsis, AEK 14
Wesson, AEK 13.8
Tsiaras, Olimpia 13.8
Rebounds Per Game
1 Wesson, AEK 8.64
2 Massey, Aris 8.36
3 Bourousis, Oly. 7.73
4 Ceranic, AEL 7.57
Assists Per Game
1 Spanoulis, PAO 5.04
2 Jaaber, Egaleo 4.2
3 Diamantidis, PAO 3.78
4 Kojadinovic, Mar. 3.48
Steals Per Game
1 Jaaber, Egaleo 2.80 2 Massey, Aris 2.32 3 Grundy,Panellinios2.26
Blocks Per Game
Klimavicius, AEL 1.52
Bourousis, Oly. 1.14
Massey, Aris 1.05
2FGP
Giannoulis Pan 64%
Klimavicius, AEL 64%
Massey, Aris 63%
3FGP
Kurtovic Olympias 52%
Kiriakopoulos, AEL 48%
Becirovic, PAO 46%
Vasiliadis, Olympiakos 45%
Stevenson, Marousi 45%
Tsaldaris, Aris 45%
Free Throws
Papanikolopoulos, AEL 91%
Wright, Aris 87%
Kalampokis, Panionios 86%
Ranking
Bourousis Oly 0.787
Massey Ais 0.694
Batiste Pan 0.681
Jackson Oly 0.670
Ostojic Pan 0.612
Vougioukas Reth. 0.608
Tsakalidis, Olym. 0.607
Golemac, Panell. 0.602


Stats Leaders - A2
A2 Stats Leaders
Points Per Game
1 Fotiou, Sporting 18.56
2 Liakopoulos, Pagr, 17.7
3 Kaklamanos, Trik,16.84
4 Totsios, Irakl, 16.73
5 Despos, MENT 15.65
6 Moulakis, Xanthi 16.34
Rebounds Per Game
1 Despos, MENT 9.03
2 Koutroulias, Ilys. 8.36
3 Symeonid. Irakl, 8.17
4 Bucci, Peristeri 7.42
5 Petrodimop, Dafni 7.26
Assists Per Game
1 Karidas, MENT 5.42
2 Moshovitis, Perist. 4.64
3 Liakopoulos, Pagr. 4.16
4 Kantartz, Halkida 4.00
5 Katsares, Trikala 3.15
Steals Per Game
1 Karidas, MENT 2.53
2 Tomaras, Halkida 1.90
3 Bucci, Peristeri 1.77
Blocks Per Game
Trybanski, Peristeri 1.50
Psathas, Halkida 1.09
Koutroulias, Ilysiak 1.05
Papanikol. Ilysiak.1.05
2FGP
1 Despos, MENT 68%
2 Pashalis, Ionikos 64%
3 Harismidis, Trikala 63%
3FGP
1 Fountas, Trikala 49%
2 Apostolop, Iraklis 48%
3 Panagiot, Panorama 48%
Free Throws
1 Daniel, Iraklis 87%
2 Bucci, Peristeri 85%
3 Mandic, MENT 85%
Ranking
Harismidis, Trikala 0.598
Anagnost, I.C.B.S. 0.577
Paschalis, Lamia 0.567
Papanikolaou, Ilisiakos 0.555
Koutroulias, Ilisiakos 0.554


*****************************************************
ICELAND

Comeback of the year -by Siggi Hjorleifsson
What a comeback. What character. Snaefell were down by 19 in the fourth quarter with 5 minutes left. The game should be over. But not when Snaefell are playing. They are never giving up, making big threes, and making big plays.
This was a great game, live on TV, with a packed gym. What else do you want?
Grindavik played great in the first 3 periods with great shooting from outside from Adame Adame Darboe (190-G-86, agency: Rasmussen Services). Pall Axel Pall Axel Vilbergsson (197-F/G-78) & Helgi Jonas Gudfinnson. Grindavik were leading at halftime 62-49 and 86-70 after third period. Then Sigurdur Thorvaldson & Slobodan Slobodan Subasic (191-G-79) took the game over on offense with great 3 point shooting. Sigurdur Thorvaldsson (201-F-80, agency: IceBasket) 5/6 from threes and Slobodan Subasic 4/5 from threes. Score in regular time 106-106. In overtime Snaefell had better control of the game and 10 seconds from the end Justin Shouse (180-G-81, agency: IceBasket, college: Mercyhurst) drove to the basket and made the final winning basket on a lay-up.
What an end of a great game.
Snaefell made it to the finals of the play-offs with this win and won the series 3-1. It was a pity for a great Grindavik team to loose this game but you have to play the game to the end.
SigurdurSigurdur Thorvaldsson had his best game 39 points 7 rebounds. Slobodan Slobodan Subasic had his best game so far for Snaefell 23 pts. Justin Shouse 21 pts & 14 assists and made the winning shot. Once again Hlynur Hlynur Baeringsson (200-F-82, agency: IceBasket) totally out rebounded a big US player 18 pts and 17 rebounds. Magni Ingvaldur Magni Hafsteinsson (197-G/F-81) 8 pts. Anders Katholm (202-F-77) 6. Arni Asgeirsson 3.
For Grindavik Adame Adame Darboe had a big game 32 pts & 13 assist 6/10 grom threes. Jamaal Williams (196-F-83, agency: Life Sports, college: Washington) 27 pts but lost the rebounding battle and only had 4 boards. Pall A Pall Axel Vilbergsson 19. Helgi Jonas Gudfinnsson (185-G-76) 15. Thorleifur Olafsson (192-G/F-84) 8. Pall Kristinsson (202-F-76, college: S.Carol.Upstate) 7. Igor Beljanski (201-C-78, college: Chaminade) 6.

*****************************************************
INDIA

Kerala Junior State Meet reaches last 8 stage -by Anil Kumar
Thrissur, Kottayam and host Alappuzha, among the front-runners for the boys' title, marched into the quarterfinals of the 32nd Kerala State junior basketball championship here on Monday evening.

But Thiruvananthapuram, a traditional stronghold in all age groups for decades, surprisingly failed to make the last-eight stage.

Strangely, Thiruvananthapuram's best players seem to be playing elsewhere.

Both defending champion Malappuram, which is powered by the Capital's G.V. Raja Sports School boys, and last year's runner-up Wynad — virtually the Thiruvananthapuram's St Joseph's School — entered the quarterfinals.

However, there were no surprises in the girls section with favourites Kottayam and Kollam moving into the last-eight stage without much fuss.

The results (league): Boys: Group ‘A': Kottayam 80 (Jobin Varghese 25, Ebby Sony 15, Maheshdas 12) bt Pathanamthitta 65 (Richard Baby 18, J. Arun 14); Malappuram 76 (Basil Philip 31, Padma Girish 17, Sainul 9) bt Pathanamthitta 66 (Jomon Joseph 25, Richard Baby 16). Qualifiers to quarterfinals: Kottayam (group topper), Malappuram and Pathanamthitta.

Group ‘B': Wynad 53 (Shan Shoukath Ali 13, Sanil Antony 13) bt Kannur 42 (Lijo Mathew 13, Mohammed Sahhaib 11); Wynad 63 (Sanil Antony 18, Shan Shoukath Ali 17) bt Kasargod 33. Qualifiers: Thrissur, Wynad and Kannur.

Group ‘C': Kollam 29 (Pritham 12, Abhijith 10) bt Idukki 10. Qualifier: Kozhikode.

Group ‘D': Alappuzha 57 (Samju A. Joy 19, Sreejith A. Nair 14, Ashin Xavier 9) bt Palakkad 33 (T. Paul 9, Deepak 9). Qualifier: Alappuzha.

Girls: Group ‘A': Kottayam 35 (Archana P. Nair 11) bt Idukki 10.

Qualifiers to quarterfinals: Kottayam and Pathanmthitta.

Group ‘B': Qualifiers: Kollam and Ernakulam.

Group ‘C': Wynad 67 (Jincy Joseph 18, Sonumol Sonam 21, Jain Marcella 14) bt Malappuram 54 (Anjali 12, Arya 11, Kavitha 10).

Group ‘D': Qualifiers: Thrissur and Alappuzha.

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

Round 21 First Team -by Netanel Dahan
#s#
#e#6


Bynum


Tucker


Dixon


Burtt


Kozikaro


Round 21 MVP: Will Bynum (180-G-83, agency: Priority Sports, college: Georgia Tech) of Maccabi Elite Tel-Aviv


First team:
Will Bynum (180-G-83), Will was amazing in the game against Jerusalem, he lead Maccabi to amazing comeback With 29 points in 33 minutes and 5 assists.
P.J. Tucker (196-F-85, agency: CAA Sports, college: Texas) of Hapoel Holon, P.J scored 20 points in 26 minutes and took 9 rebounds.
Malik Dixon (187-G-75, college: UALR) of Hapoel Holon, Malik scored 20 points in only 11 minutes!.
Steve Burtt (185-G-84, agency: CAA Sports, college: Iona) of Eldan Ashkelon, Steve scored 25 points, 4 rebounds, 8 assists and extorted 11 fouls at only 30 minutes.
Ido Kozikaro (202-F/C-78, agency: Arik Krayn Services) of Iscar Nahariya, Ido scored 11 points, 12 rebounds and extorted 6 fouls.


Second team:
Erez Markovic (208-C-78, agency: Avi Zilberman), Erez scored 23 points and took 16 rebounds (from them 13 at the offense).
Timmy Bowers (188-G-82, college: Mississippi St.), Tmmy scored 24 points,took 8 rebounds and extort 7 fouls.
Tunji Awojobi (201-F-73, college: Boston U.), Tunji scored 24 points took 4 rebounds and extort 10 fouls at 30 minutes.
Jamie Arnold (203-F-75, agency: Avi Zilberman, college: Wichita St.), Jamie scored 23 points and took 10 rebounds.
Jason Williams (196-G/F-83, college: UTEP), Jason scored 23 points, took 6 rebounds and extorted 7 fouls



Belcher is out for the season -by Yarone Arbel
Big hit to Bnei HaSharon. One of the top clubs in the league this season will miss Cookie Belcher (191-G-78, college: Nebraska) until the end of the season, after the skilled forward tore his Achilles tendon during the second half of Bnei's 75-90 home loss to Hapoel Holon on Monday night and will have to go under surgery in the next days. Belcher, in his third season with Bnei, supposed to be out for 3 months before he'll be able to play again. Belcher arrived to Bnei three years ago but already on the third week of his debut season was badly injured and had to sit out the whole season. He came back magnificently the previous season, which made Bnei re-sign him for two more years.

Bnei lost the first place to Maccabi Tel Aviv already after one week of conquering the top with a huge one point win at Nokia arena. Bnei play on a short rotation already and since the deadline to sign new players in Israel is over, they will have to wait and try to step up in the league's Final Four without one of their key players.

Standings - National League
National L. Standings
 1. Macc.Netanya 20-6 
 2. Givat Shmuel 19-7 
 3. Elitzur Q.Ata 17-9 
 4. Maccabi Haifa 15-11 
 5. Hap.Y./Megido 14-12 
 6. Elitzur Yavne 14-12 
 7. Hap.N.Elite 13-13 
 8. Hap.B-Sheva 13-13 
 9. Macc.H.Hash. 12-14 
 10. Macc.Ashdod 12-14 
 11. Benyamina 11-15 
 12. Elitzur Ramla 10-16 
 13. Hap.L.Hashar. 9-17 
 14. Macc.Shoham 3-23 


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JAMAICA

USA junior team defeats world all-stars -by Leonard Whyte
Portland, OR (4-15-2008) - A USA junior national select team scored an impressive 98-78 victory over a World select team, led by Samardo Samuels, in the Nike Hoop Summit on Sunday night. Samuels finished with 10 points for international team, which featured players from 11 countries, including Jamaica, France, Puerto Rico, Argentina, Republic of Congo, Canada, Ukraine, Lithuania, Serbia, Nigeria, and Germany. Samuels, the No.1 high school center in the country, plans to attend the 8th annual Star Search Basketball & Life Skills Development Camp is set for July 13-18, 2008 at the G.C. Foster College of Physical Education & Sports in St. Catherine, Jamaica - the place where it all started for him.

Tulsa wins CBI Championship -by Leonard Whyte
Tulsa, OK (4-8-2008) - The University of Tulsa fell behind 16-2 to start the game, but staged a remarkable comeback to capture the first ever College Basketball Invitational championships, beating Bradley University 70-64 in the final game of the best-of-three series. Sophomore center, Jerome Jordan, just missed a triple-double after finishing with 11 points, 12 rebounds, and eight blocked shots to earn tournament MVP honors. Tulsa ended the season 25-14.

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

Sampson to add power to Zain's roster -by Mohammed Malas
According to Al Rai, Al Ghad and Addustour local newspapers in their today's editions, The american player Jamal Sampson (209-C-83) will be the new addition to current power in Zain's roster for both Arab Clubs Championship (April 24 - May 6 Amman, Jordan) and Asian Clubs Cahmpionship (May 12 - 23 Kuwait City, Kuwait), He will replace the Malian NT player Soumaila Samake (215-C-78, agency: CAA Sports) who finished his contract with the champions of the 2007/2008 Excellent League, The player will arrive during this week to begin trainings with his new teammates.

Jamal Wesley Sampson (born May 15, 1983 in Inglewood, California) was an American professional basketball player in the NBA, He is positioned as a power forward and a center. He attended the University of California, Berkeley and was selected by the Utah Jazz in the 2nd round (47th overall) in the 2002 NBA Draft and then was traded along with Ryan Humphrey to the Orlando Magic for Curtis Borchardt. The Magic then traded Sampson to the Milwaukee Bucks for Rashard Griffith.

After barely playing with the Bucks, Sampson was signed by the Lakers but then was placed on the injured list. He was later selected by the Charlotte Bobcats in the expansion draft in 2004, but ended up signing as a free agent with the Kings in 2005. On July 28, 2006 Sampson signed with the Denver Nuggets. He was waived by the Dallas Mavericks on October 22, 2007, He has just finish playing in China in the last three months, He led his team Liaoning Panpan Hunters to the Finalist of the Chinese CBA against Guandong Southern Tigers and averaged 28 ppg and 22.0 rpg in his career there.

In a related issue, The other Jordanian team in the coming Arab Clubs Championship Orthodox are looking to change their imports in order to view themselves in a better shape in the tourney, Rumours is talking about deals with Al Riyadi/Aramex's forward Rob Anderson (196-G/F-79, college: George Mason) and Arena Amman's importMark Strickland (208-F/C-70, college: Temple) to replace Leroy Davis (194-F-81, agency: ProSportsCareers, college: Georgia St.) and Torraye Braggs (203-F/C-76, college: Xavier) in the red's squad, Something official will be known soon....

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KUWAIT

Fuller signs for Al Kuwait -by Ali Ahmed
Al Kuwait SC basketball team management agreed terms with the American Forward Hiram Fuller (206-F-81, agency: Octagon, college: Fresno St.) to play for them in Arab Clubs Championship (April 24 - May 6 Amman, Jordan).



Fuller played in the NBA, P.Rico, China and France.




Strength: Has NBA-like body and smooth outside jump shot. Will challenge big men in lane and block shots.
Weakness: Tends to lose himself in offense at times. Has difficulty finishing in paint.



Awards/Achievements:
All-NBDL 1st Team -05
French Cup Semifinals -06

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LEBANON

Standings - Division A
Div.A Standings
 1. Al Riyadi 13-0 
 2. Moutahed 10-3 
 3. Sagesse 9-4 
 4. Blue Stars 6-7 
 5. Antranik 5-8 
 6. Feytroun 4-9 
 7. Champville 4-9 
 8. Anibal 1-12 


*****************************************************
LUXEMBOURG

Etzella loses again! Amicale gets past Musel Pikes to take over 3rd place! Sparta showing consistency, balance and depth earning top spot! -by Alex Meyers
Saturday, April 12, 2008

Contern 88 - Etzella 87

Etzella has lost now four of its last five title group games. The last several without injured guard Jairo Delgado who brings defense, scoring and athleticism. Former Etzella playmaker Gilles Becker, besides going 0 for 5 from downtown, had a good game against his former teammates. Becker score 19 points on 7/8 shooting from inside the three point line, 5/6 from the charity strip, dished for 8 assists and grabbed four rebounds. But most importantly, Becker and his teammates consistently found Yves Braun open at the three point line where he nailed 6 of 10, winding up with a team high 22. Braun hit his biggest three at the buzzer for the win. Eric Bissener added 13 points and Eric Jeitz along with Dave Mallon added 10 points each. Mallon also contributed 10 rebounds and 5 assists. Etzella's Marcus Kennedy (193-F-84, college: Montevallo) led all scorers in the contest with 31 points while tearing down 10 boards. Nelson DelGado had 21 and Tim Giver 19 for Etzella. Noone else from Etzella reached double figures. Etzella lost the game during the third quarter where Contern dominated on home turf out-scoring Etzella 13-28. Etzella made a marvelous comeback in the fourth but Contern played smart enough down the home stretch, hanging on for the thrilling one point victory behind some Braun heroism. Bench scoring was a key factor where Contern won the stat category 14-4.

With the loss, Etzella drops to second place in the DBBL giving way to the defending Champs Sparta who take over the top spot. Both teams have identical 19-7 records. However, in their first playoff meeting in Bertrange. Sparta thumped Etzella hard 89-75. So, in the DBBL standings, Sparta has 29.5 points compared to Etzella's 28.5. The big showdown for the top seed going into final four will be on Sunday, April 20th at 5:15 in Ettelbruck. Etzella vs. Sparta! You'd better get there early if you want a good seat. Contern will travel to Remich to play against Musel Pikes. That game is slated for 6:00pm.

Contern: 36 field goals, 6 three pointers, 10 for 12 free throws, 32 rebounds, 20 fouls and 15 turnovers.
Mallon 10, Jeitz 10, Becker 19, Braun 22, Bisener 13, also Donnersbach 8 and Herber 6.
Etzella: 27 field goals, 11 three pointers, 22 for 29 free throws, 23 rebounds 16 fouls and 13 turnovers.
N. DelGado 21, Kennedy 31, Giver 19, Schroeder 7, Garganese 5, also Benseghir, Ittenbach 4, Kerger and Pravisani.

Score by quarters: 1st Q 24-20, Halftime 45-42, 3rd Q 58-70, Final 88-87



Sparta 92 - Residence 76

Sparta had another successful night out by dropping Residence by 16 in a game where import Larrie Smith was able to rest up playing only just 19 minutes. Residence, who is playing without its import William Brand, E.U. player Marko Leschek and Steve Mangen was led by Frank Mangen who topped all scorers with 22 points. Gilles Kayser and Thierry Abdiu notched 15 and 14 respectively. Nearly every player from Sparta scored but Christian Wulff took honors with 22 points followed by Larrie Smith 15, Pit hoffmann 15, Christophe Baustert 11 and Sohrab Ziai 10. After losing their first two games in the playoffs, Sparta has now won six straight and have an enormous amount of momentum going into the next game in Ettelbruck on Sunday, April 20th at 5:15 where they will face their arch rivals a struggling Etzella team.

Sparta: 33 field goals, 11 three pointers, 13 for 21 free throws and 28 fouls (no other game stats are available)
Smith 15, Wulff 22, Ziai 10, Hoffmann 15, Baustert 11, also Palumbo 2, Evans 3, Wolzfield, Tripodo 3, Rupil 7, Nittler 2 and Klein 2.
Residence: 26 field goals, 7 three pointers, 17 for 24 free throws, and 23 fouls(no other game stats are available)
F. Mangen 25, Kayser 15, Abdiu 14, Julien 6, Felten 9, also Bichel 2, Torres 1 and Ludwig 4.

Score by quarters: 1st Q 22-20, Halftime 44-36, 3rd Q 70-54, Final 92-76



Amicale 69- Musel Pikes 66

details coming soon...

Sparta earns tie for top spot with 5th win in a row!! Etzella falters losing at Musel Pikes! -by Alex Meyers
Since mid-February when Sparta suffered huge back to back losses to Musel Pikes and Amicale they have gone on a winning streak of 5 games in a row in the playoffs. One of those wins was a 14 point home win over Etzella. Sparta's latest victim was Amicale. With Residence, Etzella and Contern remaining on their schedule, Sparta is looking more and more like the team to beat again for this season's DBBL title.

Amicale 60 - Sparta 69

Larrie Smith continued his dominating ways last evening in Steinsel by once again carrying his team across the finish line with a 9 point lead by the end of the game. Smith finished with 29 points, 9 rebounds, 2 steals and a blocked shot. Smith got some help from teammates Sohrab Ziai and Christian Wulff with 16 and 10 points respectively. Sparta struggled from the free throw line(13 for 27) throughout the game to keep Amicale(14-11) within striking distance.Amicale had a decent first half going into intermission down by only 3 points. Amicale continued its success against the visitors in the 3rd period and tied things up by the quarter's end at 47 all. Sparta(18-7) then cranked up its defensive intensity holding Amicale to only 13 while scoring 22 themselves to get the 9 point road victory.

Amicale: 23 field goals, 8 three pointers, 6 for 11 free throws, 25 rebounds, 20 fouls and 10 turnovers.
Depree 15, Ney 10, Scholtes 17, Schartz 7, Jones 5, also Steinmetz, Rausch, Kartheiser, Gillardin and Birenbaum 6.
Sparta: 25 field goals, 6 three pointers, 13 for 27 free throws, 20 rebounds, 11 fouls and 6 turnovers.
Smith 29, Ziai 16, Wulff 10, Baustert 8, Hoffmann 2, also Palumbo 2 and Evans.

Score by quarters: 1st Q 15-18, Halftime 26-29, 3rd Q 47-47, Final 60-69

April Fool's Prank stirred up a lot of discussion. -by Alex Meyers

www.Basketnews.lu published an article on their website siting the following news in Luxembourg basketball world:

Black Star Mersch can still possibly be relegated to National 2.!

It has been confirmed by several sources that Black Star Mersch's use of Aleksandar Dulovic, was not correct because of a problem with his FLBB player's licence. AS Soleuvre officials have filed a protest with the FLBB and the Luxembourg basketball world will have to await the decision made by the federation as to whether or not the game will be declared a forfeit. If Black Star loses the game by forfeit, Zolwer will get two points for the win and Mersch will get no points. Zolwer would then have 20 points and Mersch 18.5 points and the upcoming weekend's results would not be a factor.


Hundreds of readers were fooled by this very tricky stunt. Eurobasket.com says great job and tips their hats to the ones who came up with this idea. It fooled us too... for a while. April Fool's day can be lots of fun. Good going guys. Keep up the good work. Your coverge of basketball in Luxembourg is impecable.



Etzella, Sparta and Amicale with wins in DBBL playoffs!!! -by Alex Meyers

March 28, 2008

Sparta 80 - Musel-Pikes 65

Sparta jumped out to a 14 point first quarter lead and continued to dominate in the second period. The 20 point halftime lead would prove to be important as the Musel Pikes team bounced back in the second half winning it by a total of five points 37-42. Larrie Smith (195-F-75, college: Tennessee Tech) made all the folks in red and white in Atert happy with a 38 point 9 rebound effort. Ziai Sohrab pitched in with 16 points and the rest of Sparta's scoring was very balanced as five other players scored points for the home team. Musel Pikes' Christopher Braier was held to 11 points. Guy Schmit scored 14 and Samy Picard 13. Sparta will play Amicale in Steinsel on Saturday, April 5th at 8:30pm and Musel pikes must host Etzella on Sunday April 6 in Remich at 6:00pm.

Sparta: 19 field goals, 8 three pointers, 14 for 26 free throws, 37 rebounds 20 fouls and 12 turnovers.
Smith 38, Sohrab 16, Baustert 7, Hoffmann 5, Wulff 7, also Tripodo, Wolzfeld 3, Rupil, Nittler 2 and Evans.
Musel Pikes: 25 field goals, 5 three pointers, 10 for 17 free throws, 29 rebounds, 24 fouls and 12 turnovers.
G. Scmit 14, Schwartz 6, Picard 13, Braier 11, Kirch 4, also C. Dentzer, R. Dentzer 6, Kox 3, C. Schmit 8 and Schmitz.

Score by quarters: 1st Q 24-10, Halftime 43-23, 3rd Q 69-46, Final 80-65



March 30, 2008

Etzella 105 - Residence 81

Residence's 24 turnovers were costly and league leader Etzella took advantage of the depleted squad from Walferdange. Residence, playing without injured Steve Mangen and import William Brand struggled especially in the fourth quarter where they gave up 38 points to the home team. Tim Giver took scoring honors on the night with 27 for Etzella followed by Marcus Kennedy 24 and Nelson DelGado 22. Kennedy added 18 big rebounds, took 5 steals and dished for 4 assists. Residence had a great 3rd quarter however and trailed by only 3 points going into the fourth period 67-64. It was all Etzella from there on out as they cruised to an easy 24 point victory to keep hold of the top spot in the DBBL. Residence was paced by Marco Leschek with 26 points and 13 rebounds. Frank Mangen had 22, Thierry Abdui 15 and Gilles Kayser 10 foir the visitors. Up next for Residence is a home game with Contern Saturday night, April 5th at 8:30pm. Etzella will face Musel Pikes on the road on Sunday, April 6th at 6:00pm.

Etzella: 41 field goals, 6 three pointers, 17 for 21 free throws, 47 rebounds, 24 fouls, and 9 turnovers.
Kennedy 24, Schroeder 9, N. DelGado 22, Giver 27, Garganese 6, also Benseghir 3, Eckes, Herrmann, Ittenbach 2, Kerger 5, Pravisani 7, and Wiesenbach
Resdience: 30 field goals, 6 three pointers, 15 for 25 free throws, 31 rebounds 21 fouls and 24 turnovers.

Score by quarters: 1st Q 22-13, Halftime 46-34, 3rd Q 67-64, Final 105-81




March 29, 2008

Contern 50 - Amicale 95

Struggling Contern found themselves down by 28 points at the half and things got worse. In the third quarter, Contern could only muster 8 points and Amicale fired away from downtown hitting 15 of 27 three pointers on the night. Contern went an embarrassing 0 for 14 from the 3 point line. Contern's 21 turnovers were also a key factor in the 45 point blowout victory for Amicale. Eric Jeitz was a bright spot for Contern knocking down 22 points and Chris Donnersbach added 12. Dave Mallon was held to a season low 2 points. For Amicale, Travis Depree grabbed 9 rebounds and scored 29 points. Raul Birenbaum tossed in 16. Christopher Jones played well with 14 points 8 rebounds followed by Chris Scholtes 12 and Sam Ney 10. Amicale will host Sparta next and Contern will travel to play Residence in Walferdange. Both games are on Saturday, April 5th at 8:30pm.

Contern: 20 field goals, 0 three pointers, 10 for 19 free throws, 25 rebounds, 19 fouls and 21 turnovers.
Jeitz 22, Mallon 2, Donnersbach 12, Braun 6, Bissener 2, also Becker 4, Fasbender 2, Herber, Mathieu and Torres Dos Santos.
Amicale:32 field goals, 15 three pointers, 16 for 24 free throws, 37 rebounds, 15 fouls and 19 turnovers.

Score by quarters: 1st Q 18-22, Halftime 28-56, 3rd Q 36-78, Final 50-95



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

Standings
NBA Standings
Eastern Conference
Atlantic Div.
 1. Boston C. 65-16 
 2. Toronto R. 41-40 
 3. Philadelphia 40-41 
 4. New Jersey N. 34-47 
 5. New York K. 23-58 
Central Div.
 1. Detroit P. 58-23 
 2. Cleveland C. 45-36 
 3. Indiana P. 35-46 
 4. Chicago B. 32-49 
 5. Milwaukee B. 26-55 
Southeast Div.
 1. Orlando M. 51-30 
 2. Washington W. 43-38 
 3. Atlanta H. 37-44 
 4. Charlotte B. 31-50 
 5. Miami H. 14-67 
Western Conference
Northwest Div.
 1. Utah J. 54-27 
 2. Denver N. 49-32 
 3. Portland T.B. 41-40 
 4. Minnesota T. 21-60 
 5. Seattle S. 19-62 
Pacific Div.
 1. Los Angeles L. 57-25 
 2. Phoenix S. 54-27 
 3. Golden St. 48-33 
 4. Sacramento K. 38-44 
 5. Los Angeles C. 23-58 
Southwest Div.
 1. N.Orleans H. 56-25 
 2. San Antonio S. 55-26 
 3. Houston R. 54-27 
 4. Dallas M. 50-31 
 5. Memphis G. 22-59 


*****************************************************
NCAA1

Beasley, Rose declare for NBA draft after freshman seasons -by Jeremy Rubio
Michael Beasley (206-F-89, college: Kansas St.) and Derrick Rose (193-G-88, college: Memphis) have both declared for the NBA draft. Beasley, a 1st-team All-American, made his announcement on Sunday. He averaged an astounding 26.2 ppg in his freshman season, and led the country in rebounding (12.4 rpg). He helped lead his Wildcats to a 21-12 (10-6 Big-12) record, and to an NCAA Tournament 1st Round upset of 6th-seeded USC. The KSU Wildcats were one of only three teams to beat National Champion Kansas all season. Rose declared earlier today. The Tigers' point guard scored 14.9 ppg (including 20.6 during the NCAA Tournament) and dished out 4.7 assists per game, helping Memphis advance all the way to the NCAA title game before falling to Kansas in overtime. Memphis won an NCAA-record 38 games during the 2007-08 season. Both are likely to be selected early in the draft.

*****************************************************
NORWAY

U16 NT for Nordic Championship -by Kaare Vangen
The following players will represent Norway in the Nordic Championship in Stockholm, Sweden beginning in week 18.
Sindre Aarum, Langhus
Joachim Bergh, Centrum Tigers
Valentin Musangwa, Ullern
Baste Morken, Ulriken
Marius Botolfsen, Centrum Tigers
Anders Fjærestad, Kirkevoll
Morten Kjølhamar, Ullern
Fridtjof Elgesem, Centrum Tigers
Victor Endal, Ullern
Anders Solem, Varden/Tromsø Storm
Steinar Rakneberg, Gimle
Alexander Lindløkken, Ullern

*****************************************************
NPBL

Important changes in Hawks roster -by Gianni Pascucci
The Hudson Valley Hawks will be featuring a new roster for this Saturday's game against the Elmira Bulldogs. The team announced that Tay Fisher (5'9''-G-86) will be joining the Hawks along with Dayshawn Wright (6'6''-F-85, college: Mountain St.) of Syracuse, N.Y. and Anthony Bitting (6'9''-F/C-71, agency: Tank Sports, college: Cent.Conn.St.) of Bristol, Connecticut. These key roster additions come at a time when the Hawks have a 1-5 record and are in a desperate need of a turnaround. Each player should bring the Hawks much needed improvement on every area of the floor.

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

Logan a trouble-maker -by Michal Falkowski

David Logan (184-G-82, college: Indianapolis) (player of PGE Turow Zgorzelec) and two friends of him - Shyra Ely and Brittany Jackson (representatives Woman Polish Basketball League team - Finepharm AZS KK Jelenia Gora) directed to the disco in Jelenia Gora three days ago where they scuffled with the security of the disco.


Official announcement of the club PGE Turow Zgorzelec:
'Basketball Sport Club Turow Zgorzelec S.A. informs that in the night from 12th to 13th in April of 2008, in Jelenia Gora the act of hooliganism happened. In this case David Logan, member of the team of PGE Turow, suffered from beating. As the effect of this occurence, there is serious assumption that the Logan's left hand bone is probably cracked.
KKS Turow Zgorzelec S.A. made a decision to inform the District Public Prosecutor's Office about this act of hooliganism. which may have had a racial prejudices background. Simultaneously KKS Turow phrased the conviction, that the police investigation will clarify this event and pinpoint the guilties.'


That's the whole announcement from the club side. The content of this document suggests the innocence of David Logan. On the other hand such a situation is shown quite differently in one of the websites abnout Jelenia Gora city. According to www.jg24.pl the main guilties are Shyra Ely and David Logan. This website's article is based on some eyewitnesses.


After some hours of partying Logan with two sportswomen started to behave very noisy and aggresively. When the security considered this bad behaviour, the grouped did nothing. In this case the security decided to poured the water on them (such a way of treating aggresive people in this disco) and showed the door. In the moment when the foreigners were outside they continued to behave very badly. They were throwing the stones towards the door and the wall of the disco. Moreover Shyra Ely behaved aggresively and tried to attack the security who had no choice and used power to tone her emotions. After the police arrived Americans didn't decide to carry in the accusation and request the medical help. When it comes to Logan's injured hand, some sources said that he had hit the door using his left hand.
At the moment Logan and the club are waiting for the result of medical examinations. Actually it is already known that Logan will miss two-three weeks at least so this means he won't play in play-off quater-final games and perhaps semi-final games also. If the injury is more serious, he won't play about 6 weeks. It would mean the end of this season for the best player in DBE this year (19.7 ppg., 2.9 rpg., 1.7 spg. nnd 1.5 apg. ; MVP of regular season in Poland).



*****************************************************
PORTUGAL

LIGA UZO playoffs quarter finals round 2 -by Luis Rocha
Ovarense and Ginasio won their second game, but Porto and Vagos saw their opponents tie things up. Ovarense won 68-57 and played a bit better than in the first round. They saw the come back of Greg Stempin (203-F-79, agency: Duran International, college: Toledo) altough Cordell Henry (178-G-80, agency: Naiditch Entertainment, college: Marquette) is still out. Barreirense made things dificult to the home team, but their lack of consistency was enormous once again and made things go down. Deforrest Riley-Smith (198-G/F-84, college: Southern) and E.J. Drayton (204-F-82, agency: Strategic Sports, college: Charlotte) were lousy in the game, E:J. was the best player of the first round....
Coach Joao Freitas of CAB made a good psicological work with his pl,ayers and he almost saw his team getting the win. Some 'crazy' mistakes near the end made all go down. Ginasio played as usual but thia time the opposition was tougher and they need to go to an overtime to decide the game and even there only by 2 points (76-74). Nevertheless the pressure is now on Barreirense and CAB, they cannot fail at home, to be able to decide things on ta 5th game. Porto wasn't able to win over a well motivated and much experienced Belenenses. The 4th period of Porto was too bad, when many would have tought that Belenenses will fall phisicaly, it was Porto that fall by nervousness. Belenenses got the game under control and in the last period climb a mountain like it was a valley. Final result 77-83, hard work for coach Babo...at these days it isn't easy to be a Porto player. Vagos lost and made a bad game, Lusitania played with all they got, even Jamar McKnight (195-G/F-80, college: Clemson) finally get on the court after his injurie, and they succeed. Vagos were not good enough, they played strangely in an apatic way, Lusitania by his side work diferently, they were motivated, helping each other strongly in defence and very confident when it comes to shooting. the final result of 74-86 is a big blow in the confidence of Vagos, it's gonna be a hard time for them in Acores. The best player of this second round was Daniel Monteiro (182-G-82) (Belenenses). He scored 19 points, get 7 rebounds and gave 5 assists. Another good game for him this season. A season were he show some more maturaty, more consistency and some more will power to become a good professional player.

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

Bimbo Carmona is on fire and BSN Boxscores -by Alessandro Fontana
Carolina won against Guaynabo 110-105. It was an exciting game, very beautiful and spectacular.MVP of the game was Ebi Ere for Los Gigantes de Carolina with 29 points.
It was also worth to mention the game of 'Bimbo' Alejandro Carmona. Carmona is having an incredible season, he is scoring 19.4 ppg (58% 2pts, 44% 3pts, 75% FT) + 6.3 rpg. He seems ready for an European team and for the the Euroleague. Carmona is one of the most important players for los Gigantes, thanks to his points and his intensity in defense.
BSN BOXSOCRES
GUAYANABO-CAROLINA= 105-110
G= Sheppard 26, Lee 23, Latimer 18, Sanchez 11, Ortiz 10, Wilson 9, Escalera 8, Kortwright 0
C= Ere 29, Carmona 26, Cruz 15, Brown 13, Edwards 10, Rivera 8, Hiraldo 6, Reyes 2, Rosa 1, Ruiz 0
A. Fontana

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

Pesic left Dynamo Moscow... Why ? ? ? -by Max Brodsky
Today was declared that Yugoslavian legendary coach Svetislav Pesic and Dynamo Moscow executives mutualy agreed that Pesic will leave Dynamo Moscow. Russian team management and its staffs thanked to Pesic for everything he done for team of Moscow so far and wished him the best in his career and life. New coach was selected for Dynamo Moscow, Sergei Bazarevich who was the assistant coach for Svetislav Pesic . Dynamo Moscow was added in the list of Russian teams who fired a coaches this year and posed assistant coach as a head coach.

Why Pesic left Dynamo Moscow? Everybody knew that he had huge contract and was feeling comfortable. ULEB Cup - Girona? Damn, why? Third place is not bad for a team when its players are sleeping on 3rd quarter of ULEB Cup semi-finals...

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

Three years contract with Euroleague for Partizan Igokea ? -by Dragan Jankovski
According to the official statement of ULEB before the decisive game of Final 8 in Turin, one Serbian representative will most probably get a three years contract with Euroleague.

Namely, management of ULEB announced possible changes of the best European competition from season 2009/2010. It will take effect also on new contracts which have to adjust quality changes in European Basketball which happened since 2000, when Euroleague was founded. Thus, it is almost sure that one Serbian representative, who earns the most points from 2006 to 2009, will get an exclusive 3-years contract. It is almost impossible that any other team get close to Partizan Igokea who had fantastic Euroleague season, with 54 points while FMP follows with just 22.

Nothing is officially confirmed yet by ULEB but it is expected to happen on official Euroleague Assembly at the end of the season.

On Sunday's Euroleague Assembly it was also talked about proposal of new competition system. One of the biggest changes in Euroleague probably will be seen at the first stage where instead 3 groups teams will be placed into 4 groups.

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

Union Olimpija won against Zlatorog Lasko with 85 : 80 -by Jan Flac
In the 4th round of The UPC Telemach League For The Champion Union Olimpija played against Zlatorog Lasko on Sunday. Union Olimpija won with 85 against 80. Union Olimpija: Dragic 10, Rizvic 11, Bailey 26, Zupan 13, Taylor 11. Zlatorog Lasko: Masic 15, Jevdzic 12, Nuhanovic 11, Harris 14, Mason 15. Maurice Bailey hit 6 threepointers; Sasa Doncic assisted 6 times. Union Olimpija struggled to win this game, as they focus more on playing on The NLB Final Four on April 25th.

*****************************************************
SOUTH KOREA

2008 KBL CHAMPIONSHIPS START -by Rick Ross

Number 1 seed Vs Number 3 seed, Dungbu Promy will host Samsung Thunders
In the 2008 KBL Championships which starts April 17th in Wonju, Dongbu finished
The season in 1st place with a record of 38-16 while Samsung finished 32-22.
Both teams are evenly matched as the series boils down to the best of 7,
Both Coaches Chun Chang-Jin Dongbu Promy and Ahn Jun-Ho Samsung Thunders
Have done remarkable Jobs now contending for the prestigous crown in the KBL,
Both clubs have korean stars Samsung Lee Sang-Min (183-G-72) Dongbu Kim Joo-Sung (205-C-79),
Both Clubs have quality imports Dongbu Okosa Reggie (206-F/C-80, college: La Salle) &

Dixon Carlos (202-G/F-81, agency:

Strategic Sports, college: Virginia Tech) Samsung
Leather Terrence (206-C-81, college: S.Florida) & Thomas Victor (201-F-79, college: La Salle).



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

Week 29: Paulo Prestes MVP LEB Silver and Phifer Frank MVP LEB Bronze -by Daniel Fernandez
Paulo Prestes (210-C-88) (Clinicas Axarquia) was the MVP in the 29th round in the Adecco LEB Silver with a rating of 34 in efficiency. He scored 32 points and grabbed 11 rebounds.
Frank Phifer (206-C-80, college: Washburn) (ADT Tarragona) was the MVP in the 29th round in the Adecco LEB Bronze with a rating of 46 in efficiency. He scored 25 points and grabbed 24 rebounds in the important win of his team.

Week 29: TOP 5 by Efficiency LEB Silver
Paulo Prestes (210-C-88) (Axarquia): 34 (32pt + 11rb)
Alex Ros (-G/F-83) (Ourense): 32 (24pt + 7st)
Xavier Ventura (192-G-81) (Sabadell): 31 (22pt + 6as)
Edward Santana (203-F-80) (Palencia): 30 (20pt + 8rb)
Jason Blair (201-F-79) (Plasencia): 30 (19pt + 10rb)

Week 29: TOP 5 by Efficiecy LEB Bronze
Frank Phifer (206-C-80) (ADT Tarragona): 46 (25pt + 24rb)
Jermaine Turner (195-F-74) (CB Tijola): 31 (27pt + 8rb)
Pablo Aguilar (203-F-89) (Real Madrid B): 27 (17pt + 10rb)
Juan Navalon (191-G-75) (Alaior): 26 (22pt + 4rb)
Roberto Nunez (192-G-78) (Guadalajara): 26 (26pt + 5as)

Standings - LEB Silver / Bronze
LEB Standings
Silver
 1. Vic 22-7 
 2. Axarquia 22-7 
 3. Illescas 22-7 
 4. Almeria 20-9 
 5. Caja Rioja 20-9 
 6. Gijon 20-9 
 7. Caceres 16-13 
 8. Plasencia 16-13 
 9. Huesca 15-14 
 10. CB Tarrag. 14-15 
 11. Basq.Muro 12-17 
 12. Qalat Caja Sol 11-18 
 13. Palencia 10-19 
 14. Cornella 9-20 
 15. Ourense 9-20 
 16. Prat 9-20 
 17. Sabadell 8-21 
 18. Santa Pola 6-23 
Bronze
 1. Vigo 21-6 
 2. Archena 20-8 
 3. Guadalajara 17-10 
 4. Torrealta 17-11 
 5. Coruna 16-11 
 6. Navarra 16-11 
 7. Jerez 16-12 
 8. Real M. II 15-12 
 9. Cajasur 15-12 
 10. Salsa Musas 12-15 
 11. Esplugues-P. 11-16 
 12. Merida 10-17 
 13. Tijola 10-18 
 14. Obila 10-18 
 15. Opel Jovent 9-18 
 16. Badajoz 9-18 
 17. ADT Tarrag. 8-19 
 18. Torrevieja 0-0 


*****************************************************
TBL

Standings
WCBPL Standings
 1. Hollywood 0-0 
 2. Ventura 0-0 
 3. Newport Beach 0-0 
 4. Carlsbad 0-0 
 5. Santa Barbara 0-0 
 6. High Desert 0-0 
 7. Pasadena 0-0 
 8. O. County 0-0 


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

Standings - TBL
TBL Standings
 1. Besiktas 21-6 
 2. Efes P. 21-7 
 3. Fenerbahce 19-8 
 4. T.Telekom 18-10 
 5. Galatasaray 17-10 
 6. Antalya 17-11 
 7. Karsiyaka 16-12 
 8. TED Koleji 12-16 
 9. Banvit 12-16 
 10. Mersin 12-16 
 11. Kepez Bld 11-16 
 12. Oyak Renault 11-17 
 13. Selcuk Uni. 9-18 
 14. Darussafaka 9-19 
 15. Alpella 8-19 
 16. Beykoz 8-20 


Enes on his way to Big Apple -by Sinan Can
Turkish young talent Enes Kanter (204-C-92), has been selected among the international player's who were selected to Jordan Brand's Classic International Game which will be played on 19th of April at Madison Square Garden, NY. Fenerbahce's promising player who did great at Albert Scweitzer Tournament in Germany, showed he can be a great NBA prospect in the future, as this performance booked himself a place on the plane to New York. Kanter will play for the Black Team with Joan Creus (Spain), Evaldas Aniulis (Marciulonis Basketball School-Lithuania) Edgaras Ulanovas (Kaunas Basketball School-Lithuania) Tomer Bar Even (Maccabi Tel Aviv-Israel) Miguel Cervera (1m93 - CB San Josep Obrer-Spain) Perica Bobic (1m95 - Red Star Belgrade-Serbia) Baye Moussa Keita (Senegal). As the only Turkish guy in the organization, Kanter will have the opportunity to experience American culture and during the week, will visit attractions around New York City including the Empire State Building and the Statue of Liberty, attend the Jordan Brand Classic award's dinner. 'The Jordan Brand will give the most talented young players from around the globe the opportunity to play in the world's most famous arena,' said Garry Cook, President of Jordan Brand.

*****************************************************
U.S.VIRGIN ISLANDS

Sunstroke Classic this weekend! -by David Edole

Sun Stroke is pleased to announce the rosters for the 10th annual Sun Stroke All VI Hoop Classic. The All Star Basketball tournament features the best male and female high school players in the territory as selected by the coaches. The Classic kicks off 7 p.m. Friday April 18 with a Celebrity Basketball game that features local entertainers and politicians. This year VI NFL special teams standout Hanik Milligan will participate in the game as well. The Celebrity game will be followed by the High School 3 Point Shooting Contest, Slam Dunk Contest and Skills Challenge. There will be a special guest performance by Ras Attitude. Admission is $5 for adults $3 for children. Friday Night there will be a Celebrity Afterparty featuring Hanik Milligan @ Lornie D's Harbor Lights in Frederiksted. The party has been dubbed the Carnival Lay-Up Line and will feature performances by Rudy (STT), Shamall, Singa, Rash on the Radio, Ras Attitude, Rancho (STT), DJBertrum (Tortola), Unleaded Sounds, Phranchise Band and the JDPP Jammers (STT).
Saturday April 19 the Youth Jam Session starts at 6 p.m. with music by the Stylee Band and Bouncers for the kids. The Female All Star game starts at 7 p.m. to be followed by the male game. After the games have been completed there will be an afterparty featuring St. Thomas' Road March Champions the JDPP Jammers. The afterparty ends at 12:30. Tickets for anyone attending the games and afterparty is $10. Admission to the games alone is $6 for adults $4 for children. The event is sponsored by the Tim Duncan Foundation, Hanik Milligan, VI National Guard, Autoworld, Housing Parks & Recreation, Napoleon's Pizza, Elizabeth's @ H2O & Budget Rent-A-Car.


SUN STROKE HOOP CLASSIC ALL STAR ROSTERS

STT ALL STARS Coached by Regular Season Champion Pedrito Estrill (CAHS)

1. Ryan Mills (CAHS) (Big Baller)
2. Merwin Potter (CAHS)
3. Michail George (CAHS)
4. Charles Pemberton (CAHS)
5. Jefferson Faustin (EKHS)
6. Shaquil Bruno (EKHS)
7. Gerard Wiley (ANT)
8. Michael Venzen (SP&P)
9. Keith Nicholson (EKHS)
10. Kymani Walker (CAHS)
Alternate Prince Mills Jr. (EKHS)

STX ALL STARS Coached by Regular Season Champion Alvan Jarvis (CHS)

1. Rashawn Williams (CHS) (Big Baller)
2. Olani Vanterpool (CHS)
3. Lamar Bough (CHS)
4. Khyle Davis (CDS)
5. Mike Komlanc (CDS)
6. Timothy Sneed (EC)
7. Charles Moorehead (St. J)
8. Kahhem Thomas (7th Day)
9. Kerry Rhymer (CHS)
10. Kyle Sylvester (EC)
Alternate Keshawn Jones (EC)

St. Croix boys lead the series five games to four.



*****************************************************
URUGUAY

2nd Round for the Metro League -by Hector Lopez
Howard Wilkerson (198-F-84, college: Wofford) scored 15 points for his team Goes as they beat Larranaga 86-74 at the beginning of the Metro League 2nd Round. The best scorer for Larranaga playing without import players was Sebastian Vazquez (195-F-85) with 29. Brian Craig (206-C-79, college: Miles), the import player for Capurro scored 6 points when his team defeat Yale 97-72. In the last game Olviol Mundial beat Nacional 87-82 after overtime. Joe Fernandez scored 18 points for the winner while the Brazilian Marcelo de Andrade Souza netted 16 for Nacional.

Standings - Metropolitan League
Metropolitan Standings
 1. Aguada 1-0 
 2. Larre Borges 1-0 
 3. Urunday Univ. 1-0 
 4. 25 de Agosto 1-0 
 5. Verdirrojo 1-0 
 6. Capurro 1-0 
 7. Olivol Mundial 1-1 
 8. Yale 1-1 
 9. Goes 1-1 
 10. Guruyu Waston 0-1 
 11. Marne 0-1 
 12. Nacional 0-2 
 13. Larranaga 0-2 


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

Standings - LPB
LPB Standings
 1. Trotamundos 16-4 
 2. Gatos 13-7 
 3. Guaiqueries 11-7 
 4. Cocodrilos 9-7 
 5. Dep.Tachira 9-8 
 6. Marinos 9-10 
 7. Gaiteros 9-10 
 8. Guaros 7-13 
 9. Panteras 6-14 
 10. Gigantes 5-14 


LPB 2008 - Week 6 (Monday): Gatos splits series against Panteras -by Francisco Vega

Barquisimeto, Venezuela.- Gatos de Monagas achieved a series split as visitors against Panteras de Miranda in Caracas and maintained themselves with respectable advantage at second place of the LPB standings and as the closest rivals of Trotamundos de Carabobo.


MONDAY, APRIL 14TH

Gatos de Monagas 85 - Panteras de Miranda 81

'Jose Joaquin Carrillo' Gymnasium - Caracas, D.C.

Quarter by quarter
PAN: 10-28-23-20= 81

GAT: 28-20-16-21= 85

Top scorers

PAN: Cornelius Mitchell (180-G-82) 22 points, Eduardo Torres (195-F-81) 17 points, Marlon Dumont (206-F-77) 13 points and 11 rebounds, Stanley Jackson (188-G-82) 13 points

GAT: Kenya Capers (194-F-73) 29 points, Alejandro Flores (201-F) 23 points, Ernesto Mijares (190-G-76) 10 points



LPB 2008 - Week 6 (Saturday): Trotamundos doesn't hesitate -by Francisco Vega

Barquisimeto, Venezuela.- Trotamundos de Carabobo did not give any chances to Gigantes de Guayana as visitors and earned their 15th victory in 19 games, while Cocodrilos de Caracas was tough enough to win at home against the rising Gaiteros del Zulia. Guaiqueries de Margarita had to sweat a little bit more than expected to defeat Guaros de Lara as hosts and Marinos de Anzoategui showed no mercy against Deportivo Tachira.

SATURDAY, APRIL 12TH

Trotamundos de Carabobo 80 - Gigantes de Guayana 69
'Hermanas Gonzalez' Gymnasium - Puerto Ordaz, Bolivar

Quarter by quarter
GIG: 12-14-32-11= 69
TRO: 24-28-10-18= 80

Top scorers
TRO: Jose Vargas (196-G/F-82) 18 points, Tomas Aguilera (198-F-77) 17 points and 7 rebounds
GIG: Andrew Hunter (201-F-79) 13 points and 9 rebounds



Guaiqueries de Margarita 83 - Guaros de Lara 75
'Ciudad de La Asuncion' Gymnasium - La Asuncion, Margarita

Quarter by quarter
GUAI: 21-20-23-19= 83
GUA: 25-8-23-19= 75

Top scorers
GUAI: Marcus Fleming (204-F-78) 24 points, Carlos Cedeno (193-G/F-85) 16 points, Rogers Washington (202-F-77) 15 points

GUA: Kervis Ramirez (190-G-78) 21 points, Ronald Blackshear (196-G-78) 13 points



Marinos de Anzoategui 66 - Deportivo Tachira 58
'Arminio Gutierrez Castro' Gymnasium - San Cristobal, Tachira

Quarter by quarter
TACH: 17-17-17-7= 58

MAR: 18-18-17-13= 66

Top scorers

MAR: Jhon Romero (199-F-85) 14 points and 8 rebounds, Kevin Sowell (190-G-81) 13 points, Rafael Guevara (194-F-79) 13 points

TACH: Darius Lane (193-G-78) 15 points



Cocodrilos de Caracas 102 - Gaiteros del Zulia 82
Naciones Unidas Park - Caracas, D.C.

Quarter by quarter
COC: 27-23-27-25= 102

GAI: 19-23-20-18= 82

Top scorers

COC: Leandro Garcia Morales (186-G-80) 17 points, Kevin Houston (180-G-85) 16 points, Kevin Freeman (201-F-78) 16 points, Henry Paez (184-G-70) 15 points

GAI: Ruben Nembhard (191-G-72) 26 points, Jermaine Watson (193-G-81) 19 points



LPB 2008 - Week 6 (Sunday): Trotamundos and Guaiqueries sweep, Panteras surprises -by Francisco Vega

Barquisimeto, Venezuela.- Trotamundos de Carabobo and Guaiqueries de Margarita completed sweeps against Gigantes de Guayana and Guaros de Lara, while Gaiteros del Zulia and Deportivo Tachira got series splits against the tough Cocodrilos de Caracas and Marinos de Anzoategui. Meanwhile, Panteras de Miranda opened a series against Gatos de Monagas with a surprising victory.

SUNDAY, APRIL 13TH

Trotamundos de Carabobo 83 - Gigantes de Guayana 51
'Hermanas Gonzalez' Gymnasium - Puerto Ordaz, Bolivar

Quarter by quarter
GIG: 14-9-15-13= 51
TRO: 22-22-16-23= 83

Top scorers
TRO: J.R. Wallace (183-G-81) 16 points, Jose Vargas (196-G/F-82) 14 points, Mark Alan Bortz (208-F/C-82) 11 points and 7 rebounds, Pedro Brito (202-F/C-82) 10 points
GIG: Deivis Aranguren (192-F-85) 14 points, Reinaldo Charles (190-G-84) 11 points



Guaiqueries de Margarita 81 - Guaros de Lara 75
'Ciudad de La Asuncion' Gymnasium - La Asuncion, Margarita

Quarter by quarter
GUAI: 14-21-20-26= 81
GUA: 24-20-12-19= 75

Top scorers
GUAI: Carlos Cedeno (193-G/F-85) 21 points, Marcus Fleming (204-F-78) 17 points and 11 rebounds, Antonio Torcatt (182-G-76) 16 points

GUA: Heissler Guillent (191-G-83) 23 points, Ronald Blackshear (196-G-78) 18 points, Evan Brock (204-F-84) 10 points



Deportivo Tachira 90 - Marinos de Anzoategui 74
'Arminio Gutierrez Castro' Gymnasium - San Cristobal, Tachira

Quarter by quarter
TACH: 22-24-28-16= 90

MAR: 16-20-24-14= 74

Top scorers

MAR: Rafael Guevara (194-F-79) 25 points, Axiers Sucre (198-F-78) 11 points, David Cedeno (190-G-83) 10 points, Kevin Sowell (190-G-81) 10 points

TACH: Brian Woodward (191-G-81) 22 points, Kevin Mickens (206-F-83) 21 points, Darius Lane (193-G-78) 16 points, Carlos Morris (194-F-75) 15 points



Gaiteros del Zulia 91 - Cocodrilos de Caracas 90
Naciones Unidas Park - Caracas, D.C.

Quarter by quarter
COC: 28-23-19-20= 90

GAI: 27-23-21-20= 91

Top scorers

COC: Kevin Freeman (201-F-78) 25 points, Leandro Garcia Morales (186-G-80) 17 points

GAI: Ruben Nembhard (191-G-72) 27 points



Panteras de Miranda 87 - Gatos de Monagas 85

'Jose Joaquin Carrillo' Gymnasium - Caracas, D.C.

Quarter by quarter
PAN: 21-26-20-20= 87

GAT: 29-19-20-17= 85

Top scorers

PAN: Marlon Dumont (206-F-77) 25 points and 9 rebounds, Eduardo Torres (195-F-81) 24 points

GAT: Alejandro Flores (201-F) 26 points and 8 rebounds, Kenya Capers (194-F-73) 22 points, Duke Freeman-McKamey (208-F-80) 20 points and 17 rebounds, Edgar Arteaga (198-F-76) 11 points



Carlos Cedeno: "Our defense is what makes us strong" -by Francisco Vega
Caracas, Venezuela.- (LPB Press Department) Guard Carlos Cedeno (193-G/F-85), of Guaiqueries de Margarita, conceeded an interview to the LPB Press Department in which he discussed his vital support to the club as the starting player in the number one position in his fifth season with the current champions of Venezuela.

LPB: How do you feel as a member of Guaiqueries?
CC: 'I feel great. Happy. I've been here for five years now. We're a humble team and we've got a lot of communication.

LPB: What do you think of the team's shaky beginning in the present season?
CC: 'We're slowly increasing our level. We're reaching our rythm as the season advances and we'll continue to improve. The outcome will be evident. Julio Toro 's work is a long term plan.

LPB: In what aspect do you think that Guaiqueries has been failing and unstable?
CC: 'Yeah, we have failed, and I think we've mainly failed by making quick shots that have harmed us. We've got to be patient, we gotta be able to find proper offensive transition and find more team game. Each player has got to focus in the role they have on court'

LPB: What's the weakness and the strength of Guaiqueries?
CC: 'Our weakness is collective game. We're not doing it and that's the mistake we've been making. We've failed in lots of things and we're not consistent. Our strength is our defense. We're not going to score a lot, but as long as we keep our averages in defense and we maintain the opposing teams with less points, we'll get more victories'

LPB: What's your opinnion on the team's roster?
CC: 'I'm content with the players. We're not a team of names. We sure need more help in the outside of the paint. With this team we won last year, but we've got to reinforce different aspects like consistency from the perimeter. We've gotta have a player that can take a shot no matter how much pressure he gets'

LPB: Your vision on the LPB's expansion?
CC: 'It's a pretty good thing. There's more work and tension. It's also an opportunity for the young guys and the most visible thing about the expansion is that there are now two more teams willing to make whatever it takes to win. Both Guayana and Tachira are highly competitive'

LPB: What do you thing about coach Julio Toro ?
CC: 'He's very demmanding but he listens to players. He's earned everyone's respect and his virtue is that he is a teacher of the game. He's a master inside and outside of the court and he's not selfish. But, as everyone, he also has his flaws'

LPB: Is it possible to get back to back championships for Guaiqueries?
CC: 'We now have two more enemies in this fight. Last year we had seven rivals but now there are nine. However, Guaiqueries wants to have the privilege of renewing the title and that's what we're working for. We gotta take things easy and calmed and we gotta consider the other teams first'

LPB: You've got lots of responsibilities in this team. How do you assume that?
CC: 'I've done it with respect. I have no pressure and I'm always in touch with both the young players and the more experienced guys. I'm focused on continuing to support the team with my humble contribution, cause the goal here is to be champions again'

Translation: Francisco Vega (Latinbasket.com Venezuela)

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WCBPL

Standings
WCBPL Standings
 1. Santa Barbara 2-0 
 2. High Desert 0-0 
 3. Pasadena 0-0 
 4. O. County 0-0 
 5. Ventura 0-0 
 6. Carlsbad 0-0 
 7. Hollywood 0-1 
 8. Newport Beach 0-1 


Breakers win the first two games. -by Gianni Pascucci
The West Coast Pro Basketball League started last weekend, at the Santa Barbara City College Sports Pavilion. The host team Santa Barbara Breakers defeated 106-94 the Newport Beach Surf in the first game, and the night after they won again, 106-87, over the Hollywood Shooting Stars.



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Women News

*****************************************************
GUATEMALA - Women

Guatemalan Women Standings
Liga Metropolitana Standings
 1. Bodega Radio 0-0 
 2. Mystics 0-0 
 3. Ilgua 0-0 
 4. Energy 0-0 
 5. U.R.L. 0-0 
 6. U.S.A.C. 0-0 
 7. Sagrado C. 0-0 


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

Uniqua NB1 - Round 23 -by Adam Patonay
Everybody knows that Pecs and Sopron will be the 1st and the 2nd after the regular season and Szeged is the 3rd, but the fight is very big for the 4-5-6 position beetwen Szolnok, ZTE and BSE. In this round BSE beat Szolnok by 5 points what is more than Szolnok beat BSE at home court. So if this teams finish with same result after the regular season BSE will be on the better position for the play-off because they better on the compare. Zala Volan has to win one of they home court game against big teams Sopron or Szeged. They're so close against the Euroleague team Sopron, because the american guard Molly Creamer was unstopable, but they couldn't made the surprise, because Bernadett Nemeth 'killed' her former team with a last-second basket.

Szeviep Szeged - Seat Foton Gyor 102:72
Szeged: Tomova M. 14, Zherzherunova O. 19, Furesz E. 17/6, Szlimak H. 17/6, Russai P. 19/3
Gyor: Borovickova I. 14/6, Varga R. 14

BSE - Szolnok 91:86
BSE: Iglesias C. 27/12, Aties Z. 30/3
Szolnok: Angela Djelmis 27/15, Hegedus R. 13, Kozdron M. 16/12, Boskovic M. 14/6, Vescan B. 12/3

BEAC - Kanizsa 63:42
BEAC: Sule K. 16/12, Karasz L. 16
Kanizsa: Varga Zs. 13

Savaria BC Szombathely - Vasas Csata 45:84
Savaria: Szilvia Anyos 8/3
Csata: Fritz J. 22/6, Fejes R. 14, Koncz Zs. 11 (10 reb), Izsak J. 10/6, Szondy D. 12/6

Zala Volan ZTE - MKB Euroleasing Sopron 69:70
Zala Volan: Molly Creamer 32/24, Horvath Zs. 12
Sopron: Gorbunova O. 13, Nemeth B. 11, Branzova A. 13, Sliskovic 10

Mizo Pecs 2010 - Atomeromu Szekszard 105:43
Pecs: Somogyi A. 22/12, Podrug E. 21 (12 reb), Fegyverneky Zs. 11, Coleho G. 12, Krivacevic T. 11
Szekszard: Maksimovic M. 10

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MOLDOVA - Women

Krasnoshchek advances to the Final -by Eurobasket News
Irina Krasnoshchek (190-F-81, agency: LBM Management) and her Tim-Scuf grabbed the first win over Kozachka at home in the season and it proved just enough to advance to the Final. Kozachka left the competition at this stage for the first time since 2000. Now Tim-Scuf will now fight for the title against Dnipro in the best-of-five series.
The teams were all square at 1-1 before the decisive encounter in Kyiv and the parity remained after the first stanza 18:18. But the hosts gradually found the right rhythm and drove to a 35:28 lead at halftime. Kozachka worked hard to deny the deficit in the third period but Kyiv's outfit kept the visitors at bay. Finally Olena Fenko and Viktoriya Pazyuk nailed back-to-back jumpers to trim the deficit to just a single point at the start of the final period. But nevertheless Kozachka could not escape the inevitability. The home side spurred to a 9:2 run to clear off for good. Yelena Savina finished with massive 22 points, 16 boards and 5 blocks for Tim-Scuf. Inna Yegorova dropped 15 points for the winners. Natalia Isachenko answered with 17 points and 6 boards. Iryna Biryuk and Tetyana Shablinska scored 11 points apiece in defeat. Tim-Scuf outrebounded their opponents 45:30 and were more accurate from the field. It is the first Final appearance for Tim-Scuf since 2006.
Trailing 0-1 Tim Skuf tied the series over Kozachka as the teams exchanged the victories on a road again. In Zaporozhye Tim Skuf had a road win 57:71. Inna Yegorova paced the winners with 21 points and 7 rebounds. Yelena Savina collected 15 points and 8 rebounds, while Iryna Biryuk top-scored for Kozachka with 17 points.
The first game between Tim-Scuf and Kozachka brought more interest as the teams seem to be equal. Kozachka had a strong start and led 61:45 after the third quarter. Tim-Scuf woke up only in the last quarter, but to save the game they did not have time. As a result Kozachka won the opener 68:63. Natalia Isachenko paced the winners with 19 points and 7 rebounds. Fenko tried hard and collected 18 points and 11 rebounds. Irina Krasnoshchek top-scored for the hosts with 18 points and 10 rebounds, while Yelena Savina had 16 points and 10 boards in defeat.

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POLAND - Women

Players abroad -by Eurobasket News
Krystyna Szymanska-Lara (173-G-69) contributed into the Final of two best teams of Belgian League. IMC Dames Waregem grabbed 1-0 lead in the series upsetting the representative from Euroleague Dexia Namur 54:52. The latter looked better in the first half taking 8-points lead. With 17:6 in the last period IMC Dames Waregem triumphed in the opener. Op De Beeck Inge led the winners with 14 points. Alke Dietel produced 11, while Deyaert scored 9. Marjorie Carpreaux resisted for the defending champions with 14 points, while Krystyna Szymanska-Lara posted 12.
IMC Waregem won the second game of the Final in Belgian Play-offs. Dexia, playing at home in Game 2 could not tie the series and lost 62:82. Kamila Oplustilova led the winners with 23 points and 10 rebounds. Nele Deyaert collected 18 points and 10 rebounds, while Medevedeva scored 13. Romina Ciappina ended up with 17 points in the losing effort.Krystyna Szymanska-Lara did not play in the game at all.
Belgian representative in Euroleague was not in a good shape and might not win the crown this season. Whatever happened to the team, they started with 0-16 in the first. The quarter was ended by 9:22 with the total advantage of IMC Waregem. Even in the second quarter the guests controlled the game. After 14 minutes played the board showed 14:33 for IMC Waregem. They kept the score for good and won the half 27:47.
The deficit reached plus 27 in the third quarter when IMC Waregem spurted to 40:67 lead. With no chances for the victory Dexia could only reduce the margin in the fourth quarter.
Waregem clinched a historic title as they celebrated a third and decisive victory in the D1 Final series against Dexia. Waregem snapped a 5-season champion rally of Dexia to win the first title since 1990. Dexia seemed unstoppable over the last 5 years but this time it Waregem stunned their opponents sweeping the series. The third game turned out into a real battlefield with both sides fighting for every inch of the court. Waregem got to a quick start and maintained a 22:16 lead after the opening stanza. They dominated the boards and were more accurate from the field which resulted in a 40:29 lead at the interval. Dexia struggled to deny the deficit in the third period as Waregem players wisely kept the distance. Dexia trailed by 12 points heading into the fourth term. However Oksana Agabalova and Olesya Malashenko ignited a comeback rally from Dexia as they trimmed the deficit and tied the score at 66 with just seconds left in the game. But Nele Deyaert had the last laugh as she drained a jumper that propelled Waregem to their second title in the franchise history. Krystyna Szymanska-Lara collected 4 rebounds.
Agnieszka Bibrzycka (184-F/G-82, college: Abil.Christian) tasted bronze with UMMC in EuroLeague. UMMC Ekaterinburg clinched third place in Euroleague in a dramatic game versus Bourges Basket. Russian team won the battle due to the French Caroline Aubert who scored a buzzer-beating three-ball. Russian team won the bronze with 70:69. Another French player Sandrine Gruda and Svetlana Abrosimova led the winners with 13 points. Deanna Nolan followed them with 10 and Caroline Aubert had 7. Sonja Kireta top-scored for Bourges with 20 points and 7 rebounds. It was unlucky Final Four for Bourges that could even win two games. As you remember in the first one, the team lost in overtime and now another story. Leuchanka opened the game with a jump-shot and Sandrine Gruda led UMMC to 7:2. Melain tied the game at 13 for both teams and then Deanna Nolan gave Russian team 21:16 after the opening period. Taylor lifted UMMC to 32:20 but Belinda Snell was the last to score at the first half, 34:26. After 22:11 in the third quarter for the French team the things had changed in the court. Bourges Basket led 48:45 after 30 minutes of the game and dominated the court. Deanna Nolan however gave UMMC 51:50 in the early of the last quarter as the teams started a back-to-back period. Belinda Snell brought french team 68:65 with 14 seconds to play and then Caroline Aubert scored two free throws for 67:68. Belinda Snell scored again, but now from free throw line to give her team two points advantage. Caroline Aubert nailed a buzzer-beating three-ball for 70:69 win and the third place in Euroleague. Agnieszka Bibrzycka averaged 14.1 points per game, 3.6 rebounds and 2.4 assists.

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SERBIA - Women

Standings - Women
A Standings
Superleague
 1. Hemofarm 22-0 
 2. Crvena Zv. 18-4 
 3. Partizan 16-6 
 4. Spartak 16-6 
 5. Vojvodina 14-8 
 6. Proleter 11-11 
Others in Stage One
 1. Kraljevo 9-13 
 2. Kovin 7-15 
 3. Loznica 7-15 
 4. Usce 5-17 
 5. Radnicki NB 4-18 
 6. Stara Pazova 3-19 


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SWEDEN - Women

All square in the Final series -by Eurobasket News
Telge - Solna 81:65

Telge Energi bounced back after the starting loss to Solna and tied the series following an 81:65 win at home court. The Vikings hoped to consolidate their lead in the best-of-five series but a close game was decided in the third stanza. Telge went on a key 27:15 run that put them away for good in this one. The teams kept it close in the starting minutes and trading buckets resulted in the hosts grabbing a 20:19 lead after 10 minutes of action. As the pressure grew on both sides the accuracy decreased and defense started to dominate. Telge were more convincing holding their opponents to just 9 points in the second period and stretching the margin to 5 points at the interval. Louice Halvarsson (189-C-89) ignited a vital rally for the hosts in the third period as the lead snowballed to double digits. The Vikings trailed by as many as 17 points before the final quarter. Solna outscored the home team 22:21 in the fourth frame but it had little impact on the final outcome. Louice Halvarsson notched 23 points and 9 boards to pace Telge. Shelley Hammonds (188-F-83, agency: LBM Management) provided 13 points and 7 boards, while Frida Eldebrink (174-G-88) added 12 points for the winners. Jennifer Harris (178-G-84, college: Washburn) dropped game-high 27 points for Solna. Christy Bacon (182-G/F-80, college: Wyoming) finished with 14 points in a losing effort. The Vikings outrebounded the hosts 33:28 but committed 17 turnovers. Telge converted 49% from the field and held the visitors to 42% accuracy. The next game in the series is scheduled for Thursday.

Telge: Louice Halvarsson 23+9 boards, Shelley Hammonds 13, Frida Eldebrink 12
Solna: Jennifer Harris 27, Christy Bacon 14

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TURKEY - Women

Standings - TBBL
TBBL Standings
 1. Fenerbahce 20-2 
 2. Galatasaray 17-5 
 3. Besiktas 16-6 
 4. Botas 15-7 
 5. TED Kayseri 15-7 
 6. Mersin 13-9 
 7. Ceyhan 11-11 
 8. Burhaniye bld. 7-14 
 9. Migros 6-16 
 10. Cankaya 6-16 
 11. IUSK 4-17 
 12. Edremit 0-22 


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U.S.VIRGIN ISLANDS - Women

Sunstroke Classic this weekend -by David Edole

Sun Stroke is pleased to announce the rosters for the 10th annual Sun Stroke All VI Hoop Classic. The All Star Basketball tournament features the best male and female high school players in the territory as selected by the coaches. The Classic kicks off 7 p.m. Friday April 18 with a Celebrity Basketball game that features local entertainers and politicians. This year VI NFL special teams standout Hanik Milligan will participate in the game as well. The Celebrity game will be followed by the High School 3 Point Shooting Contest, Slam Dunk Contest and Skills Challenge. There will be a special guest performance by Ras Attitude. Admission is $5 for adults $3 for children. Friday Night there will be a Celebrity Afterparty featuring Hanik Milligan @ Lornie D's Harbor Lights in Frederiksted. The party has been dubbed the Carnival Lay-Up Line and will feature performances by Rudy (STT), Shamall, Singa, Rash on the Radio, Ras Attitude, Rancho (STT), DJBertrum (Tortola), Unleaded Sounds, Phranchise Band and the JDPP Jammers (STT). Saturday April 19 the Youth Jam Session starts at 6 p.m. with music by the Stylee Band and Bouncers for the kids. The Female All Star game starts at 7 p.m. to be followed by the male game. After the games have been completed there will be an afterparty featuring St. Thomas' Road March Champions the JDPP Jammers. The afterparty ends at 12:30. Tickets for anyone attending the games and afterparty is $10. Admission to the games alone is $6 for adults $4 for children. The event is sponsored by the Tim Duncan Foundation, Hanik Milligan, VI National Guard, Autoworld, Housing Parks & Recreation, Napoleon's Pizza, Elizabeth's @ H2O & Budget Rent-A-Car.

SUN STROKE HOOP CLASSIC ALL STAR ROSTERS



STT ALL STARS Coached by Regular Season Champion Myron Corbett (CAHS)

1. Victoria Hamilton (ANT) (Big Baller)
2. Lashonda Creque (CAHS)
3. Makeva Aska (CAHS)
4. Shayla Kelly (CAHS)
5. Krystal Fredericks (EKHS)
6. Julia Cassaza (ANT)
7. T'eandra Richardson (CAHS)
8. Aesha Peters (CAHS)
9. Nicki Peterson (CAHS)
10. Shari Jarvis (ANT)
Alternate Kelly Webster (ANT)

STX ALL STARS Coached by Donald Bough (CHS)

1. Sherice Joseph (CHS)
2. Shawna Moving (CHS)
3. Cheynae Rogers (Private)
4. Sidney Rogers (Private)
5. Rebecka Seifer (CDS)
6. Lanese Bough (CHS)
7. Hanifer Hendricks (CDS)
8. Shamyra Vanterpool (CHS)
9. Risheema Burke (CHS)
10. Adisha Christopher (EC)
Alternative Kemisha Harris (EC)



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UKRAINE - Women

Tim-Scuf eliminates Kozachka -by Eurobasket News
Tim-Scuf - Kozachka 65:55

Tim-Scuf grabbed the first win over Kozachka at home in the season and it proved just enough to advance to the Final. Kozachka left the competition at this stage for the first time since 2000. Now Tim-Scuf will now fight for the title against Dnipro in the best-of-five series. Game 1 of the clash in scheduled for April 24.
The teams were all square at 1-1 before the decisive encounter in Kyiv and the parity remained after the first stanza 18:18. But the hosts gradually found the right rhythm and drove to a 35:28 lead at halftime. Kozachka worked hard to deny the deficit in the third period but Kyiv's outfit kept the visitors at bay. Finally Olena Fenko and Viktoriya Pazyuk nailed back-to-back jumpers to trim the deficit to just a single point at the start of the final period. But nevertheless Kozachka could not escape the inevitability. The home side spurred to a 9:2 run to clear off for good. Yelena Savina (186-F-84) finished with massive 22 points, 16 boards and 5 blocks for Tim-Scuf. Inna Krishen dropped 15 points for the winners. Natalia Isachenko (183-G-79) answered with 17 points and 6 boards. Iryna Biryuk (178-G-78) and Tetyana Shablinska (191-C-74) scored 11 points apiece in defeat. Tim-Scuf outrebounded their opponents 45:30 and were more accurate from the field. It is the first Final appearance for Tim-Scuf since 2006.

Tim-Scuf: Yelena Savina 22+16 boards, Inna Krishen 15
Kozachka: Natalia Isachenko 17, Iryna Biryuk 11, Tetyana Shablinska 11