EUROBASKET NEWS REPORT - 4/17/2008

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Men News

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ARGENTINA

Quarterfinals: Game 3 -by Ana Soifer
Quilmes from Mar del Plata knocks Libertad out by 90 to 83 in an advance game, played tonight on tv.
Libertad is taking the series 2-1 in their favour, and will have to wait up to next Friday where they will play the 4th game. If Libertad beat Quilmes will be in the semi finals, if Quilmes won again will be a 5th game on Wednesday 23rd in Sunchales.
In Libertad couldn't play one of their important players, Andres Pelussi (198-F-77), and he will be probably out for few weeks for an injury in his leg.
Quilmes (90): Starters: Hernando Salles 11, Eduardo Villares 5, Carl Edwards (196-F-81, college: Charleston) 30, Harold Arceneaux 14, Ezequiel Dentis 9; Off the bench: Nicolas Aguirre 7, Roberto M. Maciel 8, Diego Romero 6. Coach: Oscar Sanchez
Libertad (83): Starters: Sebastian Ginobili (190-G-72, agency: Interperformances) 14, Pablo Moldu 13, Laron Profit 24, Emilio Dominguez 2, Robert Battle (200-C-81, college: Drexel) 20; Off the bench: Jorge Benitez 6, Marcos Saglietti 4. Coach: Julio Lamas

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AUSTRIA

The end of the regular season -by Eurobasket News
The Oberwart Gunners won the regular season in Austria. In the last game of the Austrian league Gunners smashed UBC St. Polten 102:59. It was an easy win and a good way to finish the season clinching the top position. Marko Moric (207-F-81, agency: World Sport Agency) led the winners with 20 points and 11 rebounds. Domonique Crawford (193-G-84, agency: Strategic Sports, college: Youngstown St.) nailed 18, while Hannes Ochsenhofer (186-G-85) had 15. Andreas Bauch (186-G-85) ended up with 18 points in the losing effort.
BSC Raiffeisen Furstenfeld lost to Xion Dukes Klosterneuburg but finished second. Xion Dukes Klosterneuburg tied at 18-18 record after 92:78 advantage. Marquis Wright paced the winners with 17 points.Christoph Nagler (193-G-84) added 15 and Calvin Watson scored 14. Michael Fraser collected 18 points and 11 rebounds in defeat.
The defending champion Allianz Swans Gmunden beat the Kapfenberg Bulls 78:52 to finish in third place. Deteri Mayes (189-G-74, agency: Court Side, college: Murray St.) paced the way with 15 points. Ian Boylan added 14, whilst Rashard Sullivan (203-F/C-84, college: S.Indiana) scored 13. WBC Kraftwerk Wels defeated Arkadia Traiskirchen 96:58.

Standings - 2.Bundesliga
2.Bundesliga Standings
Group Middle East
 1. LZ NO Sud 11-1 
 2. Baden BJ 10-2 
 3. WAT Wieden 7-5 
 4. UBBC Wien 5-7 
 5. Basket 2000 4-8 
 6. GeeBau AF 3-9 
 7. Mattersburg 2-10 
Group South
 1. Villach 7-2 
 2. Klagenfurt 6-3 
 3. ATSE Graz 6-4 
 4. Mattersburg R. 5-5 
 5. Worthersee 2 2-6 
 6. UBSC Graz 1-7 
Group West
 1. Schwaz 9-1 
 2. Salzburg 6-4 
 3. Dornbirn 6-4 
 4. SVO/BRG 5-5 
 5. TI Sparkasse 4-6 
 6. Bludenz 0-10 


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BELGIUM

Liege outscores Dexia Mons-Hainaut 78:76 -by Eurobasket News

In the latest game of Belgian league Belgacom Liege Basket outscored Dexia Mons-Hainaut at home. In a very close game throughout the whole match the hosts advantaged with 78:76 win. Dexia Mons-Hainaut spurted however with 22:21 in the last period, but could not catch up the opponent. Andre Emmett (196-G/F-82, agency: Octagon, college: Texas Tech) paced the winners with 28 points and 9 rebounds. He had support from Stephane Pelle (204-C/F-80, college: Colorado) who collected 16 points and 11 rebounds. George Evans (202-F/C-71, agency: Court Side, college: George Mason) resisted for the guests with 22 points.
Before that Bree survived an overtime battle over Dexia Mons-Hainaut 85:79. Bree improved to 22-7 and holds a slim margin over Spirou Basket Charleroi. Bree was led by Doron Perkins (188-G-83, college: Santa Clara) who top-scored with 20 points, grabbed 7 rebounds and dished 6 assists. Dor Fisher netted 13 points and made 21 rebounds.
The defending champion BC Oostende is 21-8 after the win over Antwerp Diamond Giants on the road 79:84. Chris McCray (195-G-84, college: Maryland) led the way with 18 points, while Veselin Petrovic (194-G/F-77, agency: Beo Basket) added 17. Charleroi beat VOO Verviers-Pepinster 57:94 with 22 points from Matt Walsh (197-F/G-82, agency: Arik Krayn Services, college: Florida).

The next games are scheduled for tonight.



Standings - Division I
D1 Standings
1. Bree 22-7
2. Charleroi 22-9
3. Oostende 21-8
4. Liege 19-11
5. M.Hainaut 19-12
6. Aalstar 14-17
7. Verviers-Pep. 11-19
8. Antwerp 9-20
9. Leuven 7-22
10. Gent 5-24


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BELIZE

Belize Bank Diamonds Beat the Champs!!! -by David Magana
Last Friday night at the Falcon Field in San Ignacio the BECOL Tournament continued games of the regular season featuring three games. In the first game, in the U-17 division, Sacred Heart College (2-2) beat the Wolves (0-3) by a score of 45 - 25. For Sacred Heart, Shimeon Simpson scored 21 pts, 4 rebs and 2 assists while Dijon McNabb 11 pts. In a losing effort, Julian Guzman scored 13 pts.
In the second game of the night, in the Senior division, Maratown Patriots (1-4) defeated Venus Warriors (0-6) to make them the worst team of the league. The game was exciting since both teams went out looking for the win to avoid the cellar. In the end, the Patriots come out victorious by 66 - 50. Mason 'Pallad' Berry had a marvelous night a double double figure, 18 pts 14 rebs, 3 assists, 3 steals and 1 block, Jermaine 'Bull' Pandy, 14 pts, 4 rebs and 2 assists, while Jovian 'Grease' Urbina with 11 pts, 2 assists, 2 steals and Paul Smith 11 pts, 2 assists and 2 steals. In a losing effort, Englebert 'Squeaky' Haylock scored 16 pts, 2 rebs, Leon Myers wth 15 pts, 4 rebs and Jamie Edwards, 11 pts and 4 rebs.
In the main attraction of the nigh, in the Senior division, the champs - E-Three Stars (4-1) in two straight season had never lost a game. They went undefeated last season. E-Three Stars leading scorer and rebounder, Center Mark O'Brien 6'2'', did not get any minutes in the second half, due to his coach's decision to sit him??? Probably one of the biggest coaching mistake to cost a game. Nevertheless, Belize Bank Diamonds (4-1) took advantage and played their game to win by 72 - 67. For the Diamonds, Lester Cadle (188-G-80) scored 31 pts, 4 rebs, Micheal Martinez 10 pts, 2 rebs, 3 assists and Milton Hoare 12 pts and 2 assists. In a losing effort, Elroy 'Shabba' Willis, had 16 pts, 5 rebs, Jason Daly (183-G), 17 pts, 6 rebs and Shannon Guzman 14 pts.

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BOSNIA

Standings - BIH League
D1 Standings
League 8
 1. Bosna S. 3-0 
 2. Igokea 3-0 
 3. Sloboda Dita 2-1 
 4. Slavija 2-1 
 5. Siroki 1-2 
 6. Zrinjski MC 1-2 
 7. Grude 0-3 
 8. Borac Nektar 0-3 
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 


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 77:79

Slavija - Grude 87:78


Borac Nektar - Bosna Asa BH Telecom 77:79
(18:23, 16:21, 21:22, 22: 13)
Banja Luka, SD Borik; Att.: 1.000; Ref.: Kunosic, Drmic, Lakic
BORAC NEKTAR: Atanackovic 2, Z. Jovanovic 13, Stupar, Rothbart 13, Frenklin 13, Gemaljevic 14, N. Djurasovic 6, Pavlovic, Milinovic, Velimirovic 8, Paunovic, Popovic 8
Coach: Slobodan Nikolic
BOSNA ASA BHT: Jefferson 15, Sehovic 6, Tomovic, Panic 4, B. Djurasovic, Zimic, Bailey 3, Rahimic 10, Williams 20, Hajric 14, Pasalic, Jackson 5
Coach: Jurij Zdovc


Slavija - Grude 87:78
(26:16, 22:20, 23:25, 16:17)
Istocno Sarajevo, SD Slavija; Att.: 200; Ref.: Obradovic, Biscevic, Sobot
SLAVIJA: Gvozdenovic 13, Stanic 13, Tomasevic, Simeunovic, Mladenovic 21,
Vukovic 14, Malovic 6, Grubisic 10, Anderson, Ivanovic 10, A. Damjanovic
Coach: Goran Sehovac
GRUDE: Lovric, Vranjes, Djulabic, M. Gligora 2, L. Gligora 9, Jelcic 14, Vujcic 10, Bura 4, Lozanciæ 5, Zitko 15, Peraica 19
Coach: Predrag Mikulic


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



Djokic and Oluic leave KK Celik -by Nedzad Kladusak
After missing the Centrotrans-Liga 8, Zenica already took some decisions related to their roster. Milan Oluic (210-C-84, agency: Promotex) and Andreja Djokic (195-G-78) will leave KK Celik as their contracts expired. There will be a couple of very interesting players on the bosnian market as the young Armin Avdibegovic (189-G-84), Asmir Sadibasic, Admir Alic and Haris Jahic became free-agents. Particularly the two first-named raised some eyebrows. KK Celik announced to try to extend the contracts with them.

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BRITISH VIRGIN ISLANDS

Coach: ‘Young Legs is still the team to beat' -by David Edole
With everyone talking about the perceived ‘power shift' to the western division of the upcoming BVI Basketball Federation league with players moving from Young Legs to the Guns, coach Brian 'Bash' Brewley, said Young Legs is still the team to beat.

'We've added some youth to the Legs after the season we had last year,' Brewley said. 'The old guys aren't going to be there all the time so you have to start molding the younger ones to replace these guys. I don't want to fall in the category of the East Rockers or Disciples that had all old players. They never phased them out so I'm starting to replace now.'

With the new look, Brewley said he's coming with a team full of energy and up-temp games. They are coming back for the crown this season, he said.

'I know what happened to me last year and I'm not looking for excuses,' he said of his Young Legs' failure to defend its title after being eliminated by the Bad Boys.

'Clearly the Guns have a nice team—on paper. They have to come out and play now and I'm ready for the action. I'm not going to prepare them for mid season, I'm going to peak them early this year. Young Legs is the team to beat,' he assured. 'Plain and simple.'

DEAN GREENAWAY

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BULGARIA

Spartak Pleven in 4-th place after a win in Samokov -by Valentin Anguelov
Spartak Pleven defeated Rilski Sportist in overtime in Samokov - 92-89 - and finished 4th in the Regular Season of First A-1. So now they will play Cherno More Eurohold and will have home court advantage.

Rilski Sportist went down to 8th place and will meet Dunav 2007. The first team to win two games will play against Lukoil Academic in the quarterfinals.

The visitors started very strong and had a 19-8 lead after seven minutes. Then the hosts stabilized their game and cut the deficit to five, 18-23 after ten minutes. In the second quarter Miko Golubovic played very well and with his good performance the hosts took the lead for the first time with 3'53'' to go. The two teams went into the break with Rilski Sportist leading 42-41.

At the end of the third quarter the margin went up to 12 points, 63-51 for the hosts, who started to think it would be an easy from there on in. In the 33rd minute the score was 69-57 for Rilski Sportist and after another two minutes the visitors had cut only a single point of the deficit, 72-61. But then, in the next two and a half minutes the hosts didn't score, as Spartak cut it to 4 with 2'18'' to go. With a minute to go the hosts were ahead 75-74. After a few turnovers and misses by both teams Mirkovic scored two free throws to make it 77-74, but then, instead of fouling, the hosts let Dyakovski unmarked on the 3-point line and he hit the target to level the score with 8 seconds to go. Then Gruev missed in the closing second and the game went to overtime.

In that one Spartak took a 5-point lead that was quickly erased. But then the visitors went ahead by 6 points and that time they managed to keep the advantage to secure the win. Hrisimir Dimitrov (197-G/F-74, agency: Interperformances) was once again the top player with 23 points and 10 rebounds, as Bozo Barac added 17 for the winners.

For the hosts Saraliyski and Golubovic finished with 18 and Gruev had 17.

FULL STATS OF THE RILSKI SPORTIST - SPARTAK PLEVEN GAME

Standings A1
A1 Standings
1. Lukoil A. 32-0
2. Levski 22-10
3. Balkan 20-12
4. Spartak P. 16-16
5. CSKA 15-17
6. Cherno More 15-17
7. Yambol 11-21
8. Rilski S-list 10-22
9. Dunav 2007 0-0
10. Sliven 0-0


Crucial win for Yambol as they finished seventh -by Valentin Anguelov

Yambol made the surprise of this round in the last round of regular season. They managed to defeat Levski with a point advantage, 77-76. So now after Rilski Sportist missed the chance to win Yambol took the 7th place and will play with Academic Varna in the first round of the playoffs.

The game started good for the hosts who took a 8-4 lead but then Levski made a 9-0 run and took the iniciative. And so after ten minutes the visitors were ahead 24-15.
In the second quarter both teams both teams made a mistakes, missed a lot of shots and they managed to score only 13 points for a team and went to the break with 28-37 score.

In the second half Levski continued to have an advantage and were gaining more points. The difference went up to 16 points. So at the end of the third quarter the score was 46-59.

After the start of the last quarter nobody expected what was going to happen in the final minutes. Levski continued to have a good lead but Yambol was striving to come back in the game. With four minutes to go the hosts started a 9-0 run and the difference went down to 3 with 2 minutes to go. Very strong was playing Govedarov and Vadim Reka scored important 3-pointers. The last minute started with 4 point advantage for Levski but then Yambol scored for 74-76. The visitors didn't manage to organize an attack and after the time out for Yambol Kirilo Skumatov scored a 3-pointer with five seconds to go. In the next play Levski lost the ball and gave the precious win to Yambol.

Veselin Veselinov was the best scorer for Levski with 23 points and Stefan Georgiev finished with 18 and 9 rebounds.

Stanislav Govedarov (185-G-80) was above all as he finished with 37 points as Vadim Reka added 21 and 9 rebounds.


FULL STATS FROM THE GAME YAMBOL - LEVSKI



Stats Leaders
Men First A-1 Stats Leaders
Points Per Game
1 Antic Lukoil Academic 23
2 Anguelov 21
3 Lilov Balkan 18.2
4 Barac Spartak Pleven 17.6
5 Deane Lukoil Academic 17.2
Rebounds Per Game
1 Antic Lukoil Academic 9.3
2 Tmuzic Dunav 2007 8.6
3 Vitas Cherno More Eurohold 8.2
4 Payne CSKA 8
5 Reka Yambol 7.9
Assists Per Game
1 Deane Lukoil Academic 6
2 Smith Lukoil Academic 5.1
3 Paskov CSKA 4
4 Smith 3.3
5 Antic Lukoil Academic 3.3
Ranking
1 Antic Lukoil Academic 28.5
2 Smith Lukoil Academic 24
3 Slaveykov Levski 19.4
4 Morton Balkan 19
5 Barac Spartak Pleven 18.7


Standings A2
A2 Standings
 1. Cherno M. E-on 13-1 
 2. Alvina 12-2 
 3. Spart.MVR 8-6 
 4. Slavia 7-7 
 5. Chernomor. 6-8 
 6. Vidabasket 6-8 
 7. Dunav 2 3-11 
 8. Sportist Svoge 1-13 


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CHINA

Xu Has Cyst, Not Tumor, Agent Reveals -by Arthur Volbert
The agent for Xu Yong (204-F-89), who is unnamed in the article, has told the Beijing Times that Xu was discovered to have a cyst, not a tumor, according to www.fiba.com.

'The doctors have now ruled out the possibility that the cyst is a malignant tumor or an intermediate-grade malignant one,' the agent said. 'Xu Yong is resting at home, and doesn't feel unfit.'

The agent predicted that Xu would be ready to play in the Olympics.

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CZECH REPUBLIC

43rd round without a surprise -by Ondra Simecek
There was not any surprise in the last but one round of the regular season of Mattoni NBL. Prostejov after a weak first half when Sadska was not just resisting the game leader but winning by even 14 points proved its strenght and won 99:73 especially by great performace of Ames, Tomaszek and experienced vet Goran Savanovic (198-G-73). USK lost to Nymburk 52:94 in a promotional basketball roadshow in Klatovy. Pardubice after having an equal halftime with Brno finally won 66:78. Geofin won at home above Kolin 99-72. Half-time finished only with a difference of 9 pts, but after a halfftime the hosts outplayed their competitors more expressively. Match proceeded in unfastened rhythm, both teams already had sure his positions (message from Geofin by Radek Horak). Ostrava played an equal game almost till the last minutes of the game on the court of Decin, but Decin managed the last 4 minutes of the game better and won 94:86.

Standings - NBL
NBL Standings
1. Nymburk 42-1
2. Geofin 33-10
3. Prostejov 31-12
4. Decin 27-16
5. Pardubice 25-18
6. Ostrava 22-21
7. A Plus B. 18-25
8. USK Praha 18-25
9. Sadska 16-27
10. Liberec 14-29
11. Kolin 9-34
12. Usti n/Labem 3-40


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D-LEAGUE

Undermanned Skyforce knock off Defending Champ Wizards in Bismarck! -by Surujh Roopnarine
The Sioux Falls Skyforce, playing without 2007-08 D-League MVP Kasib Powell (With Miami HEAT) went into Bismarck and knocked off the defending champion Dakota Wizards 101-89 last night. Riding the back of guard David Bailey (5'8''-G-81, college: Loyola, IL)'s game high 29 points the Skyforce, who finished a game behind Dakota in the Central Division standings, will now move on to face the Austin Toros in Austin on Friday night. Dakota, which overtook Sioux Falls in the standings in the final week of the season, continued its trend of poor performances against the Skyforce winning just three of 11 meetings during the season. Dakota was led by the duo of Tony Gipson (6'1''-G-82, college: LSU) and Carlos Powell (6'7''-F-83, college: S.Carolina) who scored 25 a piece. Foul trouble for Rod Benson (6'10''-F/C-84, college: California) was a cause for the underwhelming post play the Wizards received. Starters Benson, Kevin Lyde (6'9''-C-80, college: Temple) and key reserve Wil Frisby (6'8''-F/C-81, agency: Edge Sports, college: Miami, FL) combined for only 26 points on 10-23 shooting after the trio averaged nearly 34 points a game during the regular season. Late season addition Glen McGowan (6'9''-F-81, college: Pepperdine) was a key contributor to the victory for Sioux Falls, chipping in 21 points and 11 rebounds in 29 minutes.
With the losses by Colorado and Dakota, last year's two championship finalists will be home for the remainder of the playoffs. The only team in the D-League's history to repeat, the Asheville Altitude (03-04 & 04-05) will hold that distinction for at least another season.
SKYFORCE: David Bailey (29p), Glen McGowan (21p+11rb), Chris Alexander (18p+14rb), Carl Elliott (13p+5as+6st),
WIZARDS: Carlos Powell (25p+12rb+6to), Tony Gipson (25p), David Bell (11p+6rb), Kevin Lyde (11p+5rb)

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EGYPT

Ahly - Ittihad leave Egyptain Cup -by Eslam Mohamed
In a couple of upsets, Sporting and Shorta defeated Ahly and Ittihad, respectively. Sporting beat Ahly 76-70, and Shorta edged Ittihad 74-71
Ahly Club el Ahly had problems against Sporting, as they had to play without Tarek el ghanam. Ahly had recently beaten Sporting on their court in Alexandria.
This is the first time in Egyptain Cup competetion that the two top teams have been knocked out before the semi finals.
Many had predicted Ahly, Gezira, Ittihad, and Zamalek to make up the semifinals (as has often been the case in the past), but this year it's different.
I expect a very exciting games and results in this year's finals.

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FRANCE

French Cup: Nanterre defeats Strasbourg -by Chris Spiesser
Nanterre is becoming a French Cup specialist as they join for the second year in a row the 1/4 finals. This time they downed Strasbourg which couldn't lead any second in the game. No other surprise happened this time, the ASVEL, Nancy, Gravelines and Cholet had expected wins. Pau had a big home victory against the ProA leader, Le Mans. At home, the NM1 teams did good job facing their ProA/B opponents. Angers drove Poitiers to overtime while Challans lost in the final minutes against Le Havre.

Nanterre 72-71 Strasbourg
20pts, 9rbs, 4ass for Ricky Soliver and 20pts, 5rbs for Souarata Cisse
Strasbourg slowly came back but lost the final ball.

Pau 104-98 Le Mans
Trepagnier: 21pts, Ferchaud 4/4 3pts in 11'
Clancy: 27pts (12/16), 7rbs, 3ass

ASVEL 102-67 Hyeres-Toulon
45rbs vs 26rbs for the ASVEL which had 7 players above 10pts.

Challans 80-87 Le Havre
Marcellus Sommerville: 30pts (11/16), 12rbs
Challans was led by Driss (14pts, 8rbs, 3blk, 4ass) and Judith (16pts, 7rbs, 3ass)

Angers 72-79 Poitiers (ot)
Angers grabbed 49 rbs (vs 32) with double-doubles for Doles, Lesieu and Sulpice plus 23pts (9/12) for Rajnak.
Costentin nailed 16pts, 8rbs, 5stl, 4ass.

Cholet 72-53 Orleans
Beaubois had 18pts (6/7) and 4rbs against Orleans who couldn't score more than 23 pts in the second half.

Gravelines 85-59 Chalon
Worse, Chalon had only 21 pts in the second half...
Dubiez posted 21pts and 4ass while Brun had 17pts, 5rbs and 3ass

Vichy 64-72 Nancy
Nancy shot at 47%, Vichy only at 37% in this defensive game.
Issa had a 12pts-12rbs double-double but the Greer family went for 24pts, 14rbs and 11ass.

The 1/4 and semi-final will be held in the same time, next Tuesday and Wednesday, in Limoges and Denain.

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FYR MACEDONIA

Stats Leaders - Superleague
First Macedonian League Stats Leaders
Points Per Game
1. Jarrid Frye (Amak SP) 19.77
2. Dime Tasovski (Strumica 2005) 19.30
3. Dimitar Mirakovski (Fersped Rabotnicki) 18.48
Rebounds Per Game
1. Damir Latovic (Strumica 2005) 8.86
2. Muhamed Thaci (MZT FON Univerzitet Skopje) 6.57
3. Sasko Vasilev (Karpos Sokoli 2000) 6.53
Assists Per Game
1. Dimitar Mirakovski (Fersped Rabotnicki) 5.83
2. Jane Petrovski (MZT Skopje) 5.14
3. Milan Miljkovic (Swisslion Pelister) 4.93
3FGP
1. Goran Veselinovski (Fersped Rabotnicki) 45.29 %
2. Pero Blazevski (Vardar Osiguruvanje) 45.07 %
3. Ognen Stojanovski (Fersped Rabotnicki) 43.17%


Donald Cole is MVP of the second phase -by Todor Chalovski
American power forward from Feni Industri, Donald Cole (204-C-81, agency: Edge Sports, college: Sam Houston St.) has been voted MVP of the second phase in the First Macedonian league, in the survey conducted by the official site of the Basketball Federation of Macedoniam www.basketball.org.mk, and the daily sport newspaper Makedonski sport.
the survey has been based on the number of times a player has been nominated for MVP of the round, as well as for the number of times a player has been a part of the best five players of each round.
Cole collected a total number of 140 points, and he was ahead of Dime Tasovski from Strumica 2005 (110 points) and Vojdan Stojanovski from Amak SP with 100 points.

Cole has been voted as a member of the best starting five players for this part of the season.
Other members from the best five are: Dimitar Mirakovski (Fersped Rabotnicki), Jarrid Frye (Amak SP), Dime Tasovski (Strumica 2005) and Damir Larovic (Strumica 2005).

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GEORGIA

Head Coach of Georgian National Team is Igor Kokoskov -by Levan Mikeladze
Today Georgian Basketball Federation declared that they reached an agreement with Assistant Coach of Detroit Pistons Igor Kokoskov.

Igor Kokoskov
Hometown: Belgrade, Yugoslavia
Birthdate: December 17, 1971
Education: University of Belgrade, 1993

Kokoskov became the youngest coach in Yugoslavian basketball history shortly after suffering serious injuries sustained during an automobile accident that ended a promising playing career.

He brings an international approach to teaching basketball, and has worked with European stars such as Toni Kukoc, and Vlade Divac. Considered to be one of Yugoslavia's top young coaches, Kokoskov has been instructing the basketball power country's top amateur and professional players for the past seven years. Kokoskov got to know MU Coach Quin Snyder while spending two months in 1998 as an observer with the Duke University basketball program.

Since 1996, Kokoskov has been the head coach of BC Partizan cadet and junior teams. BC Partizan is considered to be Europe's top basketball squad. In 1997 he took on added responsibilities as an assistant coach of Yugoslavia's Junior National Team, and has been working with the team ever since. Prior to joining Mizzou, he helped lead the team to a silver medal at the Olympic Youth Games in Denmark over the summer.

From 1992-95, Kokoskov was a coach with another of Belgrade's top programs - BC Belgrade. During 1992-93, he was the head coach of the BC Belgrade cadet team, (the United States equivalent of a high school team). He coached the squad to a fourth place ranking in Yugoslavia. In 1994, he was the head coach of the BC Belgrade junior team (the U.S. equal of a college freshman team), which he led to the countries' second place ranking.

He then moved up to BC Belgrade's senior team (professional league), where he was an assistant from 1994-95. In 1995, he assumed the head coaching duties of the senior team when the squad's head coach became ill. That made Kokoskov, at just 24 years old, the youngest head coach in the history of Yugoslavian basketball.

Active on the lecture and coaching seminar circuit, Kokoskov first became interested in American basketball when he met Jim Calhoun, head coach at Connecticut in 1997. Shortly thereafter, Kokoskov spent nearly three months as an observer in the United States with such basketball programs as UConn, DePaul, Northwestern and the NBA's Chicago Bulls.

After returning to Yugoslavia, Kokoskov then came back to the U.S., where he spent November and December of 1998 as an observer at Duke.

Kokoskov is engaged to fellow Belgrade native and current fashion model Angelia Vujovic.

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GERMANY

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 the Berlin Baskets (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

A1: Big Sofo is Back!! -by Chris Mammides

Sofocles Schortsianitis (206-C-85) is back in action. The powerful Greek center appeared last night in the court, this time with his uniform and ready to ramble. The game between Olympiakos and AEL 1964 was the 'kick off' game for the 'big Sofo'. The talented center scored his first 9 points in only 6 minutes, proving first of all that he wants to come back in action very soon. Big Sofo was much different in the court, with at least 30 kilos less, mood to run, passionate and above all ready to work hard in order to reach the best feasible level and become ready for the coming play-offs and of course if possible the games of the Hellenic NT for the pre-Olympic Tournament which will take place in Athens, Greece. Coach Panagiotis Yiannakis is definitely the most delighted person as he can add a 'weapon' in both of his teams, firstly at his club, Olympiakos and secondly and most important at his National team.

In regards to the games now for the 24th week, the menu had the best game from Jasikevicius against Panionios, the Lithuanian super star showed a little bit of his glam in the specific game as with his 28 points and his 3 assists in 24 minutes, in the home win of the Greens against Panionios 84-74, he was definitely the MVP of the week!

In the other games we had the very important victory of PAOK over Panellinios 62-58, which is the one that actually gives the right to the Thessaloniki team to stay in the division, with Tsiakos being the MVP of the game with his 14 points and 7 rebounds; moreover we had the crucial win of Coach Alexandris, Kolossos Rodou over Egaleo in a very nice derby, with 92-89, with the Panamanian Pinnock being the MVP of the game with his 23 points, 14 rebounds and 5 assists, he could also be the MVP of the week.

Rethymno lost the chance to seal the ticket for A1 after the negative result against Aris, 59-70, with Terry being the MVP with his 16 points and 12 rebounds. Lastly, we had the victory of Maroussi over AEK Athens, Coach Markopoulos very good job proved to be crucial for the sixth place which Maroussi seems to be 'locking' 71-62 was the final result with Stevenson being the MVP of the game.



Standings - A1
A1 Standings
 1. Panathin. 21-3 
 2. Olympiak. 20-4 
 3. Aris 16-8 
 4. Panellinios 14-10 
 5. Panionios 13-11 
 6. Maroussi 12-12 
 7. AEK 11-13 
 8. AEL 11-13 
 9. Olimpia L. 11-13 
 10. Egaleo 11-13 
 11. PAOK 9-15 
 12. Kolossos 8-16 
 13. Rethimno 8-16 
 14. Olimpiada P. 3-21 


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HOLLAND

Coach Erik Braal extends contract with West Brabant Giants -by Fred Roggen
The governing board of the West-Brabant Giants has agreed with Head-coach Eric Braal to break up his present contract and lengthening it up to 1 july 2012. The present contract of the successful coach of the year still up to 1 July 2009, some time ago spoke Eric Braal and President Rick Mijnsbergen already about the intention to continue the contract.
The positive conversations has now conducted to a lengthening of a new contract.

Landstede Zwolle extends contract of Gerard Punch -by Fred Roggen
Landstede basketball has the first American player for the new season already under contract. The American guard/forward Gerad Punch (193-G/F, college: Furman) has earned an contract-extension with Landstede Zwolle for the next season. The guard/forward is now busy with his first season at the team from Zwolle. For Punch means this a longer stay in zwolle, 'I have got the chance to play professional basketball and hopes to develop my career further. Punch season-averages: 13.1 points and 6.7 rebounds per game.

MyGuide Amsterdam Holds Off Strong Landstede Challenge -by Sanders Jackson

Tuesday night in the ZBC-hal, FEB leader MyGuide Amsterdam had a double digit lead going into halftime, before Landstede Basketball made a strong 3rd quarter challenge, but MyGuide's depth, more strength on the glass and more scoring punch both inside and outside was a difference maker, with MyGuide going on to win 84-77. Five MyGuide players scored in double figures, led by FEB MVP and go-to guy Peter Van Paassen (210-C/F-78, agency: Court Side, college: St.Bonaventure), who scored 17 pts. and 9 rebounds. Robby Bostain (191-G/F-84, agency: Sports Plus International, college: Furman) led all scorers with 23 pts., Gerad Punch (193-G/F, college: Furman), who re-signed with Landstede for another season, added 22 pts., including 7 three-pointers in the 2nd half. The win moves MyGuide's record to 31-8, while Landstede remains in 7th place.

Standings - Eredivisie
Eredivisie Standings
 1. Amsterdam 31-8 
 2. West-Brabant 27-13 
 3. Eiff.Towers 25-13 
 4. M.Magix 24-15 
 5. Rotterdam 23-15 
 6. Hanzev.Cpt 23-16 
 7. Zwolle 17-22 
 8. Weert 16-23 
 9. Leiden 15-24 
 10. Aris Friesland 8-31 
 11. Den Helder 5-34 
 12. Almere 0-0 


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HUNGARY

Standings - A Division
A Division Standings
 1. Falco 20-5 
 2. Dombovar 18-7 
 3. Albacomp 16-9 
 4. Pecs 16-9 
 5. Szolnok 15-10 
 6. Atomeromu 15-10 
 7. Nyiregyhazi 14-11 
 8. Kormend 13-12 
 9. Soproni 11-14 
 10. Univer KSE 11-14 
 11. ZTE KK 10-15 
 12. Kaposvari 6-19 
 13. MAFC 6-19 
 14. Bodrogi Bau 4-21 


ZTE lost against Albacomp in the re-played game -by Tamas Deri
The hungarian Federation decided to play the game between ZTE KK and ALBACOMP again, as the table stuff made a big mistake with the shot clock in the last minute of the game in Round 15. ZTE won that game by 4 points, but last night the guests had better luck and could win by 3 points. With this victory they made a very big step to be under the best 4 teams before the playoffs.


ZALAKERAMIA-ZTE KK-ALBACOMP 89-92
(24-22, 18-26, 28-25, 19-19)
Zalaegerszeg, Att.: 1100, Referees: dr. Vigh, Kothay, Győrffi
ZTE: Vladimir Miskovic (188-G-78) 32/12, Mark Walters (188-G-82, agency: Warren Sports, college: N.Mexico) 25/6, Kaman 10/3, Hoffmann 2, Reggie Bassette (206-C-77, college: ODU) 16, Baki, Gaspar, Simon L., Keresztes, Toth A. 4, Coach: Nikola Lazic
ALBACOMP: Balazs Simon (188-G-80, agency: Court Side) 33/12, Cory Bradford (191-G-78, agency: Edge Sports, college: Illinois) 28/18, Radovic 14/6, McClendon 6, Boozer 5, Soos 4/3, David 2, Coach: Peresztegi Nagy Akos

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IBL

EXPRESS TO APPEAR AT MALL OF CHAMPIONS -by John Gary
courtesy oursportscentral.com The two time IBL champion Elkhart Express ARE TO APPEAR FROM 1-3PM at the 'Mall of Champions,' event at Concord Mall. The Locomotion,the Expess dance team,will perform. There will be exhibitions in gymnastics,cheerleading,taewando,karate,and more. In additional news,the Vancouver Volcanoes extended their IBL winning streak to nine games sunday defeating the Portland Chinook 107-103 at portland despite playing without one of their leading scorers in Kevin Tyner.

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INDONESIA

Second Round Play-Off IBL 2008 -by Ronald Purba

We will watch an interesting game in the second round play-off IBL 2008. The game between Kalila Jakarta and Garuda Bandung will be held at GOR C'tra Arena, Bandung, 19-20 April.

Garuda Bandung will have the advantage because the game will be held at their home court, they will get full support from their home-based fans. But it won't be easy; Kalila Jakarta is a different team this year.

From their last two meetings, Garuda Bandung won both of them, but Kalila coach Raoul Miguel Hadinoto said that his players will give Garuda Bandung some shock therapy. According to Raoul, the team has prepared well for these games. In their practice, Raoul instructed his players to do more 3-point shooting.

Garuda Bandung manager, Simon Pasaribu said his team is ready for the game. He is confident that they don't need to play the third game (best of 3) to go to semifinal of IBL 2008.



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ITALY

Scavolini defeats Solsonica -by Gianni Pascucci

In the anticipated game of Serie A Rd. 32, Scavolini-Spar Pesaro took the second win at home in a row, prevailing over Solsonica Rieti 80-55. Pesaro started well, ending the 1st quarter 24-13, and never looked back. Panamanian Michael Hicks (193-G-76, college: Texas A&M - C.C.) ended the game at 18 points, 7 rebounds, 2 steals, 1 assist and is our night MVP. Carlton Myers (192-G-71, agency: World Sport Agency) added 12 points and Rasheed Brokenborough (191-G-77, college: Temple) 11 at the Pesaro side, while LeRoy Hurd (202-F/G-80, college: UTSA) scored 18 points and grabbed 10 rebs to lead a bad version of Solsonica Rieti
See complete boxscore at www.legabasket.it



Ezugwu leaves Imola -by Gianni Pascucci
Aget Andrea Costa Imola announced that Nkechi Ezugwu (203-C-76, agency: World Sport Agency, college: E.Michigan) left the team to join Bosnian team Siroki Prima pivo. He will strangthen his new team for the Bosnian league playoffs. In its official release, the Italian team crediits to Ezugwu a great professionality and a sincere affection to Aget Imola all season long.

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JORDAN

Zain & Orthodox preperations for ACC -by Mohammed Malas

# Zain:

After the signature with the american center Jamal Sampson (209-F/C-83, agency: Octagon, college: California) who will arrive to Amman tomorrow, Islam Abbas (201-C-80) and his brother Zeid Abbas (203-C-83) will be the new additions for Zain in the Arab Clubs Championship (Amman, Jordan April 23-May 6) on loan, The team is also waiting for the arrival of the natuarlized player Rasheim Wright (193-G-81, college: District of Col.) who was out for 2 months following a surgery and he is looking to be fit enough for the tournament, The same thing for Enver Soobzokov (193-G/F-78, college: Cal.St.-San Bernar.) who resumed trainings with his teammates.

Islam who led his team ASU Sports Club for promotion to Excellent League next season played with the Jordanian champions Zain in WABA for club tournament in Iran last month and will appear again in ACC, While Zeid Abbas played a perfect season with Arena Amman this year helping them to be 3rd, Abbas brothers will continue with Zain until the end of the Asian Clubs Championship which will be held in Kuwait on the 12th of May.

Zain was drawn in Group A alongside with Qatar Club (Qatar), An Nasr (UAE) and Al Tilal Aden (YEM).

# Orthodox:

Jordan NT point guard Wesam Sous (181-G-83) will be with the reds in the ACC coming on loan from Al Riyadi/Aramex Amman, Wesam deserved to be best domestic player in the Excellent League following to his big development in his abilities, He will be a good add to the local roster in the team.

Adding to Wesam, Rob Anderson (196-G/F-79, college: George Mason) and Mark Strickland (208-F/C-70, college: Temple) will be the new faces from the imports side in the roster of the runner ups of the Excellent League to replace both Torraye Braggs (203-F/C-76, college: Xavier) and Leroy Davis (194-F-81, agency: ProSportsCareers, college: Georgia St.), The managament who announced those deals officially are looking to finalize another deal with a 3rd import who may be a big addition to be instead of the injured Chris Campbell (194-G/F-81, agency: 011 Sports, college: Harding).

Anderson played with Al Riyadi/Aramex Amman in the last stages of the Excellent LEague and appeared in a high level of performance, While Strickland was a big add to the roster of Arena Amman and made a huge role in putting the team in the 3rd place in the table of the league.

Orthodox's group (Group C) in ACC contains Sporting Al Riyadi Beirut (LEB), Al Kahraba (IRQ) and Al Manama (BHR).



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LATVIA

LBAL play-off -by Gunars Gailitis

Latvian Amateur Basketball League

1/4 finals

Variants (Ventspils) - Vamiera-2 74-80
Silarajs 17; Bergmanis 27

Valmiera-2 - Variants (Ventspils) 67-81
Bergmanis 15; Steinbergs 27

DU/Hansabanka - Fenikss/Jurmalas Sports 58-103

Terentjevs14; Indans 19

Fenikss/Jurmalas Sports - DU/Hansabanka 114-56

Keizarmezs-2 - ASK Kadeti 54-85
Dvinskis 11; Martins Laksa (196-F-90) 20

ASK Kadeti - Keizarmezs-2 98-86
Mediss 23; Zvaigzne 28

SK Kandava - Liepajas papirs 75-61

Celms 18; Freimanis 21

Liepajas papirs - SK Kandava 64-51

Ate 20; Kilps 22

1/2 finals (best of three)

Fenikss/Jurmalas Sports - Variants

ASK Kadeti - SK Kandava



Latvian Basketball League -by Gunars Gailitis

Latvian Basketball League

1/8 final (best of three)

BK Keizarmezs - BK Zemgale 72-85 (24-9; 14-21; 20-27; 14-28) Series 0-1

Arturs Berzins (204-C-88) 22+8reb, Strelnieks 21+6reb, Aizpurs 8, Spelmanis 8; Martins Berkis (198-F-85) 23, E.Krumins 21+6reb, Bambis 16+9reb

SK Valmiera - ASK Juniors 109-53 (29-11; 22-20; 35-11; 23-11) Series 1-0

Agnis Cavars (196-F-86) 17, Jankauskas 16+9reb, Bankevics 15, Simac 14+10reb; Kaspars Rubenis (192-G-87) 12, Senhofs 12+7reb


Liepajas Lauvas - RNS-D/Livani 70-61 (19-11; 19-17; 12-18; 20-15) Series 1-0


Mareks Jurevicus (198-F-85) 22, Stalbergs 12, Hamilton 10; Janis Lasmanis (199-F-87) 16, Gargazins 13, Slesers 12



Standings - LBAL
LBAL Standings
Austrumi 1-4
 1. Valmiera-2 11-1 
 2. DU/Hansabanka 7-5 
 3. Maksis/LTI 5-7 
 4. Madona 1-11 
Austrumi 5-7
 1. Jekabpils 5-3 
 2. Preili 5-3 
 3. Ezerzeme 2-6 
Centrs 1-4
 1. ASK Kadeti 5-1 
 2. Keizarmezs-2 3-3 
 3. Jurmala 2 3-3 
 4. Ogre/Sonora 1-5 
Centrs 5-8
 1. Kursa/MRU 6-0 
 2. Turiba 3-3 
 3. LU 3-3 
 4. VIA Riga 0-6 
Centrs 9-12
 1. VEF Riga 4-1 
 2. Ridzene 89 4-1 
 3. Salacgriva 1-3 
 4. Saulkrasti 1-5 
Centrs 13-16
 1. I.O.S. 3-2 
 2. ASK Kadeti-2 3-3 
 3. 3.BJSS 3-3 
 4. Ridzene M. 2-3 
Centrs 17-20
 1. DSN 3-1 
 2. Ridzene 91 2-1 
 3. LNSF 0-3 
Rietumi 1-4
 1. Liepajas Papirs 8-4 
 2. Kandava 6-6 
 3. Variants 6-6 
 4. Dartija 4-8 
Rietumi 5-9
 1. Perkons 11-2 
 2. Zemgale/Juniors 11-3 
 3. Talsi 5-7 
 4. Baldone 3-10 
 5. Olaine 3-11 


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LUXEMBOURG

Standings - DBBL
DBBL Standings
Title Group
 1. Sparta 19-7 
 2. Etzella 19-7 
 3. Amicale 15-11 
 4. Musel Pikes 15-11 
 5. Contern 11-15 
 6. Residence 10-16 
Relegation Group
 1. T71 13-11 
 2. Black Star 10-14 
 3. Soleuvre 10-14 
 4. BBC Nitia 4-20 


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MOLDOVA

UASM takes the lead in the Play-offs -by Eurobasket News
UASM took 1-0 in the series over Gamma. It was the first game of the semifinals of the league. In the end of the regular season Gamma celebrated 78:77 victory. This time the game remained tough as well from the beginning until the end. In another semifinal Asem will face Orhei.
Even though the games are seen by 100-200 spectators the level of the basketball is coming up. it is expected an increased number of fans when the teams will make up a Final.

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MONTENEGRO

MNT Play-Out League 8.Round: In derby Rudar-Primorje 76-74 -by Dragan Scepanovic
Basketball Club Rudar form Pljevlja win in most important game of season in 8 Round of Montenegrin 1A Play-Out League against Primorje form H.Novi 76-74 (22-14,19-24,16-29,19-17).In team of Basketball Club Rudar from Pljevlja best was Borjan Dzogaz with 25 points, good game play Dujovic with 17 points.In team of Primorje from H.Novi best was Aleksandar Bogojevic with 19 points.Today will be play two game of 8 Round of MNT Play-Out league BC Kotor-BC Ulcinj and Mornar-Jedinstvo

MNT Super league 5.Round: In adriatic derby ABS Primorje-Mogren 79-75 -by Dragan Scepanovic
In Montenegrin adriatic derby game of 5 Round of Montenegrin Super-League Basketball Club ABS Primorje in city of H.Novi win against Basketball Club Mogren 79-75 ( 16-23,21-17,27-16,25-19 ).In team of Basketball Club ABS Primorje best was Boricic with 20 points and Radovanovic score 19 points.In team of Basketball Club Mogren Boris Lalovic (206-C-81) have index 40 (24 points and 12 rebounds) and Samir Leric (204-F/C-74) have index 30 (19 points and 12 rebounds) , good game play Sinisa Tepavcevic (201-F-87) 10 points and 3 rebound but this is not what BC Mogren need to win becouse other player do not play good.In other two games results was : Danilovgrad-Buducnost 63-79 (Micov 16 points and Dasic 15 Points for Buducnost,Simonovic19 points and Danilo Vojvodic (202-F/C-83) 15 Points for Danilovgrad) and Niksic-Lovcen 84-75 ( Nemanja Vranjes (188-G/F-88) 18 points for Nksic, Ljubo Jovanovic 17 points for Lovcen)

Standings - 1A
1A Standings
Superleague
 1. Buducnost 5-0 
 2. Niksic 3-2 
 3. Lovcen 2-3 
 4. Mogren 2-3 
 5. Danilovgrad 2-3 
 6. ABS Primorje 1-4 
Play-Out
 1. Mornar Bar 5-2 
 2. Jedinstvo 5-2 
 3. Ulcijn 5-2 
 4. Rudar 4-4 
 5. Primorje-M. 4-4 
 6. Kotor 0-7 


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MOROCCO

News from Morocco -by Nour Amri
News from Morocco

RCA and MAS will play this coming week-end the King's Cup Final. The final will be broadcasted live on 2M satellite channel at 15h00 GMT (Nilesat 101 (7° Ouest) 12 015 Mhz Verticale 27500 / Hotbird 8 (13° Est) Mhz Horizontale 27500). AS/FAR and WAC will play the women final at 12:00.

AMEB (national basketball coaches association) is organising a coaches clinic on the 19th of April. Coach Naoufal Uariachi and Coach Javier Malla from Spain will conduct the clinic. More information on www.ameb.ma

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NBA

LA Lakers are the best in the West -by Eurobasket News
The LA Lakers edged Sacramento 124:101 and clinched the first spot in the Western conference. It was a typical night for the new-looking Lakers with Pau Gasol (7'0''-F/C-80) dropping 22 points, Kobe Bryant (6'6''-G-78) adding 20 and Lamar Odom (6'10''-F-79, college: Rhode Island) producing 15 points and 12 boards in a win. Gasol and Bryant spent the final frame on the bench but it never prevented the hosts of crushing the short-handed Kings. Quincy Douby (6'3''-G-84, college: Rutgers) scored career-high 32 points to pace the visitors. Beno Udrih (6'5''-G-82) had 22 points in a losing case. The Lakers now wait for the result of the last day of regular season action to get to know their opponents in the opening round of playoffs. It will be the Denver Nuggets unless they beat Memphis and Dallas loses to New Orleans at home.
The New Orleans Hornets won their last but one clash of the season overcoming the LA Clippers 114:92 at home court. The win clinched the second spot in the West for the Hornets. David West (6'8''-F-80, agency: Octagon, college: Xavier) came up with 32 points to lead the Hornets past ailing Clippers yesterday. Chris Paul (6'0''-G-85, college: Wake Forest) notched 12 points during a 26:6 run in the third period that put the home side up for good in this one. It was the sixth straight loss for the Clippers. In the meantime it was the 300th win for the Hornets' head coach Byron Scott . Chris Paul tallied 22 points and 12 assists, while Tyson Chandler had 11 points and 11 boards for the winners. Al Thornton (6'8''-F-83, college: Florida St.) netted 26 points for the Clippers. Corey Maggette delivered 13 points in defeat.
New Jersey and Charlotte played the only overtime on the night. The Nets prevailed 112:108 denying a 20-point deficit throughout the game. Richard Jefferson (6'6''-F/G-80, college: Arizona) finished with 28 points for the winners. Vince Carter (6'5''-G-77, college: N.Carolina) had 18 points and Devin Harris (6'3''-G-83, college: Wisconsin) added 17 points and 8 assists for the Nets in a win that meant notching for both sides. Jason Richardson (6'6''-G-81, college: Michigan St.) answered with 31 points and 8 steals for Charlotte. Nazr Mohammed contributed 19 points for the Bobcats who had no motivation whatsoever. Two treys from Jefferson and Devin Harris put the game away for the Nets in overtime.

The regular season is over -by Eurobasket News
So now the regular season is over and the main NBA's treat gets under way. Playoffs will start on April 19 with 16 teams striving for the NBA crown. With the situation pretty clear in the East all eyes were on the wild West with no easy answers for placing the 8 top seeds.
The Dallas Mavericks finished the season on a high with a 111:98 win over New Orleans. It meant the Mavs clinched the 7th spot in the West setting up an opening round matchup against the Hornets. Jason Kidd (6'4''-G-73, college: California) notched his 100th career triple-double with 27 points, 10 boards and 10 assists and Jason Terry (6'2''-G-77, college: Arizona) knocked down game-high 30 points coming off the bench and Dallas prevailed in the rehearsal of the first round battle. The Mavs entered the fourth period up by 13 points and though the visitors cut the gap to 4 points midway through the frame the Mavs managed to keep the positive result till the final buzzer. David West (6'8''-F-80, agency: Octagon, college: Xavier) finished with 26 points and 8 boards for New Orleans. The teams are tied at 2-2 in the season series.
The San Antonio Spurs rolled past the Utah Jazz 109:80 at home yesterday to remain with a home-court advantage for the opening round of playoffs. The win set up a mouth-watering San Antonio vs. Phoenix first-round clash. Utah remained in the fourth spot and would play against the 5th ranked Houston in the first round. The Rockets however will have the home-court advantage against Utah because the Jazz had their final spot booked by winning the Northwest Division. Tony Parker (6'0''-G-80) had 24 points and 12 assists, while Tim Duncan (6'10''-F-76, college: Wake Forest) came up with 14 points and 11 boards in the Spurs' win. C.J. Miles (6'6''-G-87) scored 12 points for Utah in a losing case. The Spurs lost the season series to Phoenix 1-3, while Utah had a 2-1 edge against Houston.
Denver eased past Memphis in the regular season finale 120:111 but still remained just in the 8th spot coming into the playoff stage. The Nuggets will now try to challenge the LA Lakers in the opening round. The win marked the first 50-win season for Denver since 1988. Allen Iverson (6'1''-G-75, college: Georgetown) nailed 21 points and Carmelo Anthony (6'8''-F-84, college: Syracuse) dropped 17 as the Nuggets rolled to a winning outcome. Kyle Lowry (6'0''-G-86, college: Villanova) bruised the hosts with 22 points. Andre Brown (6'9''-F/C-81, agency: Priority Sports, college: De Paul) netted career-high 19 points in defeat.

Standings
NBA Standings
Eastern Conference
Atlantic Div.
 1. Boston C. 66-16 
 2. Toronto R. 41-41 
 3. Philadelphia 40-42 
 4. New Jersey N. 34-48 
 5. New York K. 23-59 
Central Div.
 1. Detroit P. 59-23 
 2. Cleveland C. 45-37 
 3. Indiana P. 36-46 
 4. Chicago B. 33-49 
 5. Milwaukee B. 26-56 
Southeast Div.
 1. Orlando M. 52-30 
 2. Washington W. 43-39 
 3. Atlanta H. 37-45 
 4. Charlotte B. 32-50 
 5. Miami H. 15-67 
Western Conference
Northwest Div.
 1. Utah J. 54-28 
 2. Denver N. 50-32 
 3. Portland T.B. 41-41 
 4. Minnesota T. 22-60 
 5. Seattle S. 20-62 
Pacific Div.
 1. Los Angeles L. 57-25 
 2. Phoenix S. 55-27 
 3. Golden St. 48-34 
 4. Sacramento K. 38-44 
 5. Los Angeles C. 23-59 
Southwest Div.
 1. San Antonio S. 56-26 
 2. N.Orleans H. 56-26 
 3. Houston R. 55-27 
 4. Dallas M. 51-31 
 5. Memphis G. 22-60 


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NPBL

Avengers add Coggins -by Justin Moore
The Alexandria Avengers have added Kelvin Coggins (6'4''-F, college: Co.Carolina) to there roster, Coggins is an Alexandria native with overseas experience in Ireland and loved the chance to play in is hometown 'The Avengers play an uptempo Golden State type offense where anyone can score on any given night' Said Coggins, with the Avengers adding Coggins to an already highscoring Avengers squad look for more highscoring affairs as the npbl season moves on.

Avengers add Coggins -by Justin Moore
The Alexandria Avengers have added Kelvin Coggins (6'4''-F, college: Co.Carolina) to there roster, Coggins is an Alexandria native with overseas experience in Ireland and loved the chance to play in is hometown 'The Avengers play an uptempo Golden State type offense where anyone can score on any given night' Said Coggins, with the Avengers adding Coggins to an already highscoring Avengers squad look for more highscoring affairs as the npbl season moves on.

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PARAGUAY

National League introduced to media -by Gianni Pascucci
In an official press conference scheduled for this morning at the Paparazzi Restaurant in Asuncion, the 2008 edition of the Paraguayan National League (Liga Nacional de Basquetbol) will be introduced to media. The ofiicials of CPBA (Confederacion Paraguaya de Basquetbol) led by President Marcelo Bedoya are very proud of their job, someone is telling about a dream that comes true. In fact, for the first time after five years, the best four teams in Asuncion will compete together with other four teams from outside Provinces for a true National Title. The league will start on next April 25, and some South American well-known companies, like Tigo, Petrobras, Sprite, Pilsen, Spalding, Adidas, Multicanal and ABC Color Newspaper agreed to sponsor the competition, supporting the efforts of the teams and the CPBA. The eight teams have been divided into two qualifying groups, the best four will advance to the second leg of the competition.

NL teams roster updatings -by Gianni Pascucci
Libertad was the last team to start practicing under coach Luis Orono , from Argentina, who has been confirmed on the club's bench. Juan Pablo Feliu will coach again Sol de America Asuncion, and his main players will be Gustavo Paniagua (186-G-80), Renzo Ferrari (191-G/F-84) (191-G/F-84) and Kenian Peter Kiganya (197-F-72, college: Abil.Christian). Deportivo San Jose Asuncion inked Argentinean coach Enrique Alonso and is negotiating with two new import players from USA. Gigantes del Norte Concepcion agreed to terms with Hernan Winkler, from Libertad, and are negotiating with an Uruguayan center. This team will also inauguarte soon the new Arena Polideportiva in Conception, with a seating capoacity of 3,000 people. Universal del Sur -Sacachispas Encarnacion inked Argentinean coach Jorge Luis Cortez ans hid officials are negotiating with two USA players and another from Argentina. Estrella del Este Presidente Franco will be coached by Javier Samudio and inked two players from Brazil, named Thiago and Dadilson, coming from XV Paracicaba team.

FPC inks Lee and Hall -by Gianni Pascucci
Felix Perez Cardozo announced the agreement with USA players Brandon Lee (188-G, agency: ProSportsCareers, college: Tarleton St.) and Dwain Hall (208-C, college: UTSA). The team is also testing an African guard and added to its roster Alcides Fernandez (205-C-82) and Anderson Villamayor (192-F-80). To prepare as best as possible the next National League, the team organizes this upcoming weekend a Quadrangolar Tournment with Deportivo San Jose, Sol de America, and Estrellas del Este. The games will be played on Friday 18 and Saturday 19.

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PUERTO RICO

Surging Criollos expand lead over Lions -by Luis Ramirez
The Caguas Criollos who have quietly climbed in 2nd place defeated the defending Champions Santurce Crabbers 93-89. The Criollos started the game on a high offensive streak as they scored 28 points in the 1st quarter while holding the Crabbers to just 15 points. The crabbers showed some sign of life in the 2nd quarter but at halftime the Criollos still maintained a lead 53-46. In the 3rd quarter it was the Crabbers who sent on the offensive scoring 27 points while the Criollos would only score 16 to relinquish the lead, 73-69. In the 4th quarter the Criollos once again played a strong defense to come back one more time to take the lead and the win. For Caguas, Peter John Ramos (222-C-85) and Ricardo Melendez both scored 22 points; Ramos also grabbed 13 rebounds for the Criollos. For Santurce, Eddin Santiago scored 25 points followed by Ricardo Dalmau with 20 points. The Crabbers are without the services of Larry Ayuso who was to be operated from a fractured nose.

Over at Bayamon, the cowboys defeated the Humacao Grays 90-74. Six of the Bayamon Cowboys scored in double figures in the game. The game started with Humacao taking the 1st quarter 22-17. But the Cowboys came right back in the 2nd quarter to take the lead and never looked back. For Bayamon, the leading scorer was Dan Langhi (208-F-77, college: Vanderbilt) with 18 points followed by Lee Benson with 15 points and 13 rebounds. For Humacao, Roberto Nieves (194-G-82, agency: Paris Global Sports, college: Valparaiso) scored 26 points followed by Ansel Guzman with 14 points and 8 assists.

Over at Carolina, the Giants beat the Indians 96-86. The Giant took the lead in the very 1st quarter and although the Indians make a good offensive run in the 3rd they could not catch up to the giants. In the 4th quarter the Indians seemed to fade away as the Giants kept scoring at will. For Carolina, Alejandro Carmona (194-G/F-83, agency: Next Level) scored 24 points followed by Christopher Hiraldo with 15 points. For Mayaguez, Jonathan Smith scored 29 points and captured 9 rebounds to lead all scorers.

At Fajardo, the Cariduros sealed the game with 2 free throws in the late seconds of the game to give the Cariduros a win over the Ponce Lions 82-78 who this season have had a great difficulty trying to win games on the road. Fajardo opened the game with a 24-15 quarter and they were still leading at the end of the 1st half 42-33. The Lions slowly started to put some plays together as Matt Freije (206-F-81, agency: Priority Sports, college: Vanderbilt) and Gabriel Colon got hot to trim the lead somewhat in the 3rd quarter. In the final seconds of the game the Lions managed to tie the game with a 3 pointer but the Criollos went to the line and made their free throws contrary to the Lions who could of tied the game with two free throws from Joel Curbelo, but Curbelo missed both shots and that was the game. For Fajardo, Kevin Hamilton (193-G-84, agency: Paris Global Sports, college: Holy Cross) scored 19 points making 5 out of 6 from 3 point range, followed by Javier Mojica with 14 points. For Ponce, Matt Freije who was playing his first game as a Lions after coming from the Guayama Brujos, scored 23 points followed by Gabriel Colon with 22 points and 12 rebounds.

In the final game of the night, the Guaynabo Conquistadors inflicted the Arecibo Captains with their 2nd straight loss as the Conquistadors beat the Captains 99-95. Guaynabo took the 1st quarter 23-20, and led by the end of the 1st half 47-45. In the 3rd quarter the Captains kept pace with the Conquistadors 67-65. In the 4th quarter the Conquistadors outhustled the Captains for the win. For Guaynabo, Jack Michael Martinez (203-F/C-81, agency: Paris Global Sports) scored 26 points and grabbed 15 rebounds followed by Kevin Sheppard with 21 points. For Arecibo, Angel Figueroa (196-G/F-81, agency: Paris Global Sports, college: Dowling) scored 29 points followed by Bobby Joe Hatton with 15 points.

Standings - BSN
BSN Standings
Island
 1. Arecibo 15-8 
 2. Caguas 12-10 
 3. Ponce 11-12 
 4. San German 9-12 
 5. Guayama 6-15 
 6. Mayaguez 4-18 
Metro
 1. Carolina 15-7 
 2. Guaynabo 13-9 
 3. Fajardo 13-9 
 4. Santurce 12-10 
 5. Humacao 11-10 
 6. Bayamon 9-12 


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SERBIA

Dynamo Moscow waived Svetislav Pesic ! -by Dragan Jankovski

After Final 8 of ULEB Cup, which Dynamo Moscow finished on the third place beating Galatasaray Cafe Crown 84-67, management of Dynamo and highly respected Serbian head coach Svetislav Pesic terminated the contract. The team also parted ways with one of their assistant coaches Oliver Kostic .

'The management of the club thanked to me for my effort and work, my devotion to the club and my energy but they stated that the team didn't meet expectations so they said that the club had to make this decision. It is easier when someone made a decision instead of you. I am not happy because of this but decision wasn't mine and I don't have any reason to be unsatisfied' said Svetislav Pesic.

Pesic's assistant coach Sergei Bazarevich is named to be the new head coach of Dynamo Moscow, who doesn't have an intention to hire any other coach until the end of the season.



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SLOVENIA

Zagorje KD FT, Alpos Sentjur and Hopsi Polzela secure their spot in the 1A league for the next season -by Uros Vujic
Zagorje KD FT defeated Rogla Zrece 87-83 and secured their spot in the 1A league for the next season. Milos Savkovic (207-C-86) was unstoppable again, scoring 25 points (FG-10/11) and grabbing 9 rebounds, Gilbert Goodrich added 17 points and Marko Dimnik had 16 points, 8 assists and 6 steals for Zagorje KD FT. Primoz Brolih had 22 points, Dejan Grkovic added 21 points and Bostjan Sivka had 20 points for Rogla Zrece, heading to the lower competition for the next season.
Hopsi Polzela defeated Kraski Zidar Sezana 68-77 in Sezana. Vladimir Rizman had 19 points in an important win for Hopsi. Mitar Trivunovic and Marko Sekulic had 18 points each for Sezana, who will continue to struggle and compete against Parklji Bezigrad and Nova Gorica, in the mini league for the last spot in the first division.
Alpos Sentjur and Ervin Dragsic part ways, so they will face Zagorje KD FT without him in the last round of the season. Dragsic is close to signing in Austria until the end of this season.

Standings - 1A
1A Standings
Places 1-8
 1. Olimpija 6-0 
 2. Helios 5-2 
 3. Slovan 4-3 
 4. Zlatorog 3-3 
 5. Luka Koper 3-4 
 6. Krka 3-4 
 7. TCG Mercator 1-4 
 8. Elektra 1-6 
Places 9-13
 1. Polzela 12-18 
 2. Alpos S. 12-18 
 3. Zagorje 11-19 
 4. Kraski Zidar 9-21 
 5. Rogla 6-24 


Olimpija easily over Helios, Koper is still hot, Zlatorog snap losing streak over Krka -by Zeljko Zule
Olimpija never trailed in second half in defeating Helios 93-76. Jasmin Hukic (204-G/F-79, agency: Beo Basket) scored 25 points including five 3-pointers, Hasan Rizvic posted 18 points on shooting 8-of-11 and Goran Dragic had 16 points and 9 assists. Helios finished with just two scorers in double digits. Marijan Mance netted 20 points and Jure Mocnik 14.
Zlatorog outrebounded Krka 29-20 and snapped a four game lossing streak against the runner-up of the first stage. Lance Harris had 24 points and 7 rebounds, Salih Nuhanovic posted with 14 points on shooting 7-of-9 and 10 rebounds, and Chester Mason added 13 points and 6 rebounds. Krka commited 20 turnovers. Davor Marcelic scored 19 points, TJ Sorrentine 14 and Marko Rakocevic 13.
Koper trailed by 15 in first half, but rallied down the stretch, thanks in large part to a 25-8 run that ultimately helped grab the lead, 53-46. Simon Finzgar finished with 21 points and Vlado Pasalic posted 16 points. Slovan shot just 4-of-24 from the downtown. Enique Clemons netted 18 points and Igor Jokic 14.
TCG Mercator in first made a 30-5 run to beat Elektra 94-86. Sasa Ljubenovic scored 23 points on shooting 4-of-4 behind the arc and Mensud Julevic added 20 points. Zan Vrecko led the guests with 22 points.
League Play-Off - Round 7: Helios-Union Olimpija 76-93, Zlatorog-Krka 80-69, Luka Koper-Geoplin Slovan 79-68, TCG Mercator-Elektar Esotech 94-86.
Alpos in last quarter outscored Zagorje 34-7 and crushed the opponent by 91-57. Aldin Kadic finished with 30 points and 12 rebounds to led 11 players in scorers. Zagorje had no player in double digits! Igor Spesic finished with 9 points and 9 rebounds. Rogla trailed just once in the game, that coming in the opening minutes (4-5). Miro Petrovic and Dejan scored 13 points while Marko Meden hiad 13 points for Kraski zidar who shot just 48 percent (16-of-33) from the free throw line.
League Play-Out - Round 10: Alpos Sentjur-Zagorje 91-57, Rogla-Kraski zidar Jadran 79-69, Hopsi bye.

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SPAIN

ACB Round 30 (Wed) -by Paul Nilsen
A protracted Round 30 of ACB action is almost at an end as after two major midweek games with another on Thursday night between Real Madrid and ULEB Cup winners DKV Jovenut in the capital.

Bouncing back from their ULEB Cup disappointment in unanimous fashion to dliver a crushing blow to Unicaja were Akasvayu Girona who travelled to Malaga on Wednesday and picked up a wholly unexpected 71-65 victory.

Sergio Scariolo and his team will be mortified that they lost this one having dominated the first half to hold a nine point lead at the break. In fact it was going very much to the script with many people expecting Girona to be too tired in this game after a mentally and physically gruelling ULEB weekend. However the Catalans ripped up the script and leave Unicaja sweating on their play-off place with a phenomenal second half when they outscored and completely outplayed the hosts to turn the game completely on its head.

Marc Gasol (212-C-85, agency: Interperformances) showed why he is such a leader of the team and one of the best players in Europe by picking his side up when they were looking down and out to carry them to a huge victory that almost secures them a play-off spot. They are nearly there and it is hardly surprising with Gasol picking up 18 points, 7 rebounds, 4 blocks and five assists. He was well supported with four of his team-mates reaching double-figures. Jiri Welsch had 10 points and 7 rebounds for Unicaja.

In the other game it was a case of Pamesa Valencia heading to Leon looking to put pressure on Tau Ceramica for that precious home play-off spot of fourth place. Leon meanwhile knew that a defeat would just about seal their fate of LEB basketball next year. While still mathematically possible, their survival is unlikely after the home team slumped to a 75-91 defeat. Valencia started strongly but Leon managed to keep themselves in the hunt for a win right up until the final quarter when the class of Pamesa shone through. Lamont Barnes had a credible double-double for the home team but it was 18 points and seven assists from Shammond Williams that stood out in this contest as Ruben Douglas also shone with a top score of 22 points.

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SWEDEN

Plannja gets things even against Solna -by Eurobasket News
Plannja threw everything they had to overcome a halftime deficit and secure a dramatic 75:73 victory against Solna. The Vikings entered the game up by one in the series and looked forward to extend the lead. They drove to a minimal 22:20 lead after the opening stanza and stretched the margin to 9 points at the long break. But Terry Williams (187-G-83, agency: Interperformances, college: Georgia Southern) fueled the second-half comeback rally from the hosts. They denied the difference and Terry Williams knocked down a go-ahead bucket with the time ticking off. He finished with 25 points to lead Plannja Basket. Hakan Larsson (184-G-74) and Albert Burditt (203-F-72, college: Texas) scored 12 points apiece for the winners. Brandon McKnight (188-G-83, college: Purdue) answered with game-high 26 points for Solna. Lesli Myrthil (200-F-77, college: Wagner) scored 15 points in defeat.
Sundsvall made another step towards Basketligan Final as they fired down Sodertalje 97:94 away from home in Game 2. The Dragons relied on a strong performance in the second quarter to organize a rally that put them up by 9 points at the interval. The visitors kept the Kings at bay in the fourth period but the hosts stepped on the gas in the final period cutting the gap to minimum. But an inspirational game from Alex Wesby (196-G-80, agency: R.H.Consultancy, college: Temple) ensured the winning outcome for Sundsvall. He poured in game-high 38 points and the Dragons registered a 97:94 win. A.J. Guyton (187-G-78, college: Indiana) came up with 24 points for the winners. Greg Dilligard (203-F-85, agency: Warren Sports) tallied 20 points and Jonathan Skjoldebrand (203-C/F-83, agency: Arik Krayn Services) contributed 17 points in a losing effort.

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TPBL

2008 1st Team All TPBL SELECTION -by Chris Cardenas

The TPBL is very proud to announce this years 1st Team All TPBL selection. These are the players that played all year long, contributed to their teams and showed what the league is made of including good sportsmanship and showing great class on the court.

1st Team :
1. CHARLES TATUM - MIDLAND HEAT
2. TRACY BRAZIEL - SAN ANGELO CHAPARRALS
3. MATTHEW FAMBRO - WEST TEXAS STORM
4. CHAUNCEY EPHRAIM - MIDLAND HEAT
5. RAY WILLIAMS - MIDLAND HEAT

2008 HONORABLE MENTION :

ARTURO ZUNIGA - P.T.S. REBELS (HOUSTON)
CALVIN ANDERSON - SAN ANGELO CHAPARRALS
JOHN CARSWELL - HOUSTON SYNERGY

2008 MVP WILL BE ANNOUNCED AFTER THE TPBL CHAMPIONSHIP SERIES!!!!!

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TURKEY

Stats Leaders - D1
TBL Stats Leaders
Points Per Game
1.Q.Hosley, Karsi. 23.2
2.K.Braswell, Selc 21.7
3.L.Gordon, Kepez 21.4
4.S.Marshall, Karsi. 19.6
5.R.Marsh, Ant. 19.0
Rebounds Per Game
1.Q.Hosley, Karsi. 11.8
2.K.Adeleke, Banvit 11.3
3.D.Harvey, Banvit 10.7
4.D.Kinloch, Alpella 10.6
5.C.Burgess, Beykoz 9.3
Assists Per Game
1.H.Koseoglu, Kepez 7.1
2.K.Braswell, Selc. 5.7
3.W.Solomon, FB 5.5
4.H.Dobie, Ted K. 4.9
5.D.Brown, GS 4.7
Steals Per Game
1.K.Braswell, Selc. 2.3
2.J.Lucas, Ant. 2.1
3.Q.Hosley, Karsi. 2.0
4.S.Cetin, Alpella 1.9
5.H.Koseoglu, Kepez 1.9
Blocks Per Game
1.O.Asik, FB 1.8
2.D.Harvey, Banvit 1.6
3.C.Burgess, Beykoz 1.4
4.S.Nicevic, BJK 1.1
5.H.Besok, GS 1.0
Ranking
1.Q.Hosley, Kars. 558
2.L.Gordon, Kepez 515
3.W.Carter, Selc. 422
4.C.Burgess, Beyk 416
5.A.Adeleke, Banvit 410


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U.S.VIRGIN ISLANDS

Draft Express : elegar all portsmouth second team -by David Edole
6'10, Power Forward, Senior, Drexel
22.7 minutes, 14.0 points, 6.3 rebounds, 3.3 blocks, 17-28 FG, 8-12 FT

Joseph Treutlein

Frank Elegar (206-C-86) is someone we hadn't written about prior to Portsmouth, but has long been on our radar screen. That said, he definitely exceeded expectations with his performance, quickly emerging as one of the more intriguing players in the tournament. Elegar possesses very good mobility and fluidity for his size, along with solid explosiveness and quickness, though his most impressive asset is his freakish 7'4 wingspan, which he uses well in all facets of the game.

On the offensive end, Elegar shows nice flashes of post-up and face-up moves, mostly post-up, where he has the makings of a nice finesse game. Not being the thickest player in the world and probably being in need of more upper and lower body strength (lower more so), he isn't really able to establish dominant position or push his opponents around, so he relies on hook shots, turnaround jumpers, and up-and-unders, which he showed flashes of here and throughout his career. He'll occasionally try to mix in some face-up moves off one or two dribbles as well, but he doesn't usually get very far, and that's definitely an area he could improve on. He also doesn't show much of a mid-range jumper, and for the frequency he gets to the free-throw line (second most free throw attempts per possession in our entire database), he could also improve on his 67% from the line.

Elegar does show nice flashes in multiple areas, but his post game could still use some refining and his footwork doesn't always look especially fluid. Because he really lacks go-to shot-creating moves, he can go through spurts where he isn't able to contribute in the scoring column, resulting in inconsistent performances. For example, during a week in early January, he posted 33 points on Delaware, followed it up with 2 points against Northeastern, and then rebounded back with 29 points against Towson.

Elegar does contribute in other areas of the game, and he notably upped his rebounds, steals, and blocks per game this season without an increase in minutes, and it's definitely apparent how he uses his physical tools to make an impact in these hustle areas of the game. He tries to pull down rebounds in a crowd, contests shots in the post and on the perimeter, and uses his length in the passing lanes. On the boards, due to his thin frame, he isn't the best boxing out, and he relies too much on his physical tools here, resulting in inconsistent performances in this area as well.

Defensively, Elegar shows nice versatility as a post defender, showing good fundamentals and playing a very active game, using his length to front, poking at the ball from behind when his man has the ball, and using his length to contest shots. He can be backed down due to lack of strength at times, though. On the perimeter, he shows an active stance, but he isn't tested much with his lateral quickness, playing center in college.

All in all, Elegar is definitely someone who teams will be studying closely, as with his physical tools, he can possibly make an impact in the NBA, especially if he can progress in his skill development in one way or another. If he can continue to play with a consistently high motor at Orlando and in summer league, he could possibly earn himself a roster spot this year, and if not, he is someone who we'd keep an eye on for the future if he continues to develop his game.

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. Michael Davis (EKHS)
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.



Elegar preforms at Portsmouth -by David Edole

K&D Round's Landscaping outlasted Frank Elegar (206-C-86) and Norfolk Naval Shipyard, 82-81, in the third-place game of the Portsmouth Invitational Tournament (P.I.T.). As expected, every NBA team had multiple scouts there at the college senior only tournament that was held at Churchill High in Portsmouth. Elegar had his best performance of the tourney when he scored 19 points on 7-of-10 field goal shooting and 5-of-6 at the charity stripe. His major contribution was a PIT record tying eight blocked shots. Jermaine Tate of Cincinnati set the mark in 2000.

On Friday, the Naval Shipyard loss to Tidewater Sealants, 94-91. Elegar finished with 11 points, four rebounds and two blocks in just 22 minutes for Shipyard. Tidewater Sealants lead by 14 in the first half and ten at halftime, but trailed by eight with 11:21 to go and was down 91-85 with under two minutes in the game.

Elegar opened the 56th annual tournament with 12 points and nine boards to lead the Shipyard over Sales Systems LTD, 96-88 on Thursday.

The P.I.T. is the nation's oldest amateur basketball tournament. It is recognized by NBA and European scouts as the premier showcase for future professional players.
The P.I.T. is the only tournament for college seniors to participate in and be evaluated by the National Basketball Association prior to the NBA's pre-draft camp in Orlando.

VIDEO


What a scout had to say about Elegar's preformance

'Elegar makes many emphatic plays over the course of every game, be it athletic dunks or blocks, though his focus doesn't always seem to be at 100%, as he can drift at times, and his reaction time doesn't always seem very sharp on both ends. All in all, though, with his athleticism, length (largest wingspan here), and the little flashes of post-up and face-up moves he shows, he's someone who has a chance to play in the NBA in the future, if he can make some noticeable strides with his skill development and learn how to maintain his focus for longer stretches.'



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UKRAINE

Ukrainian Superleague playoffs have started. -by Alexei Naumov
Politekhnika-Galychyna Lviv and Khimik Yuzhniy both took a 1:0 series lead in the quarterfinals of the 2008 Ukrainian Superleague playoffs.

Lviv defeated Sumykhimprom in a hard-fought 92:85 contest. Sumy had a better start to the game, winning the opening quarter 28:23, but the home side quickly recovered and evened things up.

Lviv's Yaroslav Zubritskiy scored a game-high 22 points. He was closely matched by Sumy's point guard Artem Butskiy, who finished the game with 20.

Khimik, depleted by the absences of leaders Goran Cakic and Alexandar Djuric, beat Mykolaiv 71:63. Sasa Bratic took over the leadership role, scoring 16, while Mykolaiv's Ivan Gilevych had 22.

Kyiv will face Dnipro and Azovmash will test Cherkaski Mavpy in game action on Thursday.

Game stats are available on the Official Website of the Ukrainian Basketball Federation

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ULEB CUP

Dynamo Moscow waived Svetislav Pesic ! -by Dragan Jankovski

After Final 8 of ULEB Cup, which Dynamo Moscow finished on the third place beating Galatasaray Cafe Crown 84-67, management of Dynamo and highly respected Serbian head coach Svetislav Pesic terminated the contract. The team also parted ways with one of their assistant coaches Oliver Kostic .

'The management of the club thanked to me for my effort and work, my devotion to the club and my energy but they stated that the team didn't meet expectations so they said that the club had to make this decision. It is easier when someone made a decision instead of you. I am not happy because of this but decision wasn't mine and I don't have any reason to be unsatisfied' said Svetislav Pesic.

Pesic's assistant coach Sergei Bazarevich is named to be the new head coach of Dynamo Moscow, who doesn't have an intention to hire any other coach until the end of the season.



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UNITED ARAB EMIRATES

Three imports with An Nasr in ACC -by Mohammed Malas
The winner of the UAE league An Nasr are preparing very well to view a good image of the development of the game in the club, The team will be part of Arab Clubs Championship which will be held this time in Amman, Jordan from 23rd of April until the 6th of May.

Three imports will play with the team and they are Justin Murray (198-F-81, agency: Tank Sports, college: Washington St.), Trello Galloway (201-G/F-79, college: Georgia St.) and Amal McCaskill (211-F/C-73, agency: Huss Sport Agency, college: Marquette)........

Murray was an import with Al Sharjah Club while Galloway and McCaskill were with An Nasr in the local league and led them to the title....

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URUGUAY

The Metro League with three leaders -by Hector Lopez
Three teams, Aguada, Urunday Universitario and 25 de Agosto are leading the Metropolitan League after two rounds. Last night Aguada beat 90-60 Larre Borges, with 12 points by the import player Dave Holmes (201-C-82, college: Manhattan). 25 de Agosto defeated Marne 90-77, with 33 points by Camilo Antunez (187-G-84). The best scorer for Marne was Antonio McMillion (196-F-83, college: Md-Eastern Shore) with 20. Urunday Universitario beat Waston 90-83. Diego Perez (196-F-84) scored 29 for the winner and Alexander Blackwell (205-F/C-70, agency: Duran International, college: Monmouth) 29 for Waston.

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


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VENEZUELA

Stats Leaders - LPB
LPB Stats Leaders
Points Per Game
K. Capers (Gat) 19.6
Washington (Guai) 19.5
J. Vargas (Tro) 18.1
O. Bradley (Gig) 18.0
A. Flores (Gat) 17.6
Rebounds Per Game
A. Sucre (Mar) 10.2
R. Allen (Gig) 10.0
T. Aguilera (Tro) 8.1
K. Young (Mar) 7.1
L. Bethelmi (Coc) 7.0
Assists Per Game
C. Cedeno (Guai) 5.1
E. Mijares (Gat) 4.9
C. Mitchell (Pan) 4.6
G. Vargas (Pan) 4.3
K. Houston (Coc) 4.0
Steals Per Game
E. Mijares (Gat) 3.7
C. Cedeno (Guai) 3.4
H. Guillent (Gua) 3.4
D. Lane (Tach) 3.2
L. Wallace (Tro) 3.2
Blocks Per Game
R. Allen (Gig) 3.8
L. Bethelmi (Coc) 1.4
M. Bortz (Tro) 1.3
A. Barrios (Tro) 1.1
M. Marriaga (Gai) 1.0
2FGP
L. Bethelmi (Coc) 64.0%
M. Dumont (Pan) 63.0%
J. Vargas (Tro) 62.0%
H. Salcedo (Gai) 62.0%
K. Freeman (Coc) 59.0%
3FGP
C. Morris (Tach) 58.0%
Dominguez (Gig) 50.0%
P. Brito (Tro) 47.0%
H. Paez (Coc) 47.0%
J. Vargas (Tro) 46.0%
Free Throws
V.D. Diaz (Coc) 91.0%
C. Mitchell (Pan) 89.0%
K. Capers (Gat) 83.0%
Blackshear (Gua) 80.0%
C. Cedeno (Guai) 77.0%


Ray Castillo: "I apologize to the LPB, Nestor Moran and Gigantes de Guayana" -by Francisco Vega
Barquisimeto, Venezuela.- American player Ray Castillo (196-G/F-82, college: UTPA), who was expelled from Venezuela's Liga Profesional de Baloncesto (LPB), where he played for Gaiteros del Zulia as an imported player, told his side of the story and apologized with sincere words of sorrow through an e-mail message sent to Latinbasket.com Venezuela.

Castillo was forced to leave after he injured player Nestor Moran, of Gigantes de Guayana, by hitting him in the face, a punch that cut Moran's skin and had to be fixed with nine stitches. However, no one ever stopped to ask Castillo about his actions and they just proceeded to made him go.

'The incident that took place in Venezuela (LPB) was and is a very unfortunate situation. I am in now way, nor have I ever been, a dirty player' said Castillo at the beginning of his letter. 'I have a lot of love and respect for the game of basketball so, when violent incidents, such as the one I was involved in occur, then there surely was provocation by my opponent'.

'It is not in my character to react in this manner as this was the first time in my career that I have ever been involved in such an event. The truth is that during the game, the coach of Gigantes put his goon (Nestor Moran) in the game to try and slow me down by grabbing, elbowing, holding and whatever he could do to prevent me from touching the ball', he explained. 'That was typical in every game there in the LPB for me. However, Nestor crossed the line when he sucker punched me in the face while the referees weren't looking and proceeded to do so throughout the remainder of the second quarter', he added.

'That's when I lost my composture and punched Nestor back. I feel much remorse for my actions toward Nestor as he was probably only doing what his team asked him to do, but nonetheless, I felt that, at that point, it had nothing to do with basketball and everything to do with defending myself. So on my behalf, I would like to take this opportunity to apologize to the LPB, as well as to Nestor Moran and the entire Gigantes organization for this unfortunate situation', he concluded.

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WBA

WBA 2008 Player pool announced -by Gianni Pascucci

As we have yet published, the WBA Exposure League held its Free Agent Camp on April 11- 12, 2008 at Life University in Marietta, GA. Players from around the world came to showcase their talent. At the end of the camp, the following Players have been selected for the WBA Player Pool for the 2008 Season:

A.J. Mastin - 6'3, Tennessee Mud Frogs
AJ Stallworth - 6'8, Life University
Al Stewart - 5'11, Drake University
Antonio Parker - 6'6, Lander University
Antwan House - 6'5, Fayetteville State University
Avery George - 6'1, W. Kentucky
Brandon Proby - 5'10, Marygrove College
Carl Johnson - 6'5, Livingstone College
Cory Sims - 6'0, Northern Illinois University
Curtin Clark - 6'5, Pickerington, OH Community College
Dele Ojo - 6'0, Delaware Fusion
Derrick George - 6'8, St. Catherine College
E.J. Ollison - 6'0, Chicago East -West University
Ernest Jones - 6'0, USBL
Jacob Frasier - 6'5, University of Mobile
Jarred Jackson - 6'3, Lander University
Jermaine Wilkerson - 6'5, SE El Camino
Joseph Gray - 6'5, USC Spartanburg
Joseph Spiers - 6'2, Chawon College
Kendrick Fox - 6'6, University of Mississippi
Kenneth McKenzie - 5'10, Atlanta Vision
Kenneth Samuels - 5'6, Bloomfield Tech
Kenyon Jones - 6'7, Glenville State College
Lee Urquhart - 6'6, Saint Paul's College
Malik Edwards - 6'2, Cascade College
Marcus Fisher - 6'4, NA
Maurius Miles - 6'2, Southwestern
Michael Griffin 6'0, Lander University
Pawel Witt - 6'2, University of ECO
Ricky James - 6'3, Trevecci Nazarene University
Rodney Mayes - 6'6, Europe
Ronald Wright - 6'9, Manchester MillRats
Roy Bright - 6'6, Delaware State University
Seon Kennedy - 6'1, Francis Marion University
Shamarco Carter - 6'6, Holmes Community
Shaun Cox - 5'7, Atlanta Speedboys
Sherman Holland - 6'0, Essex College
Stephen Yamoah - 6'6, Shaw University
Steven Eluett - 6'10, St. Petersburg College
Terrence Jones - 6'7, Livingstone College
Thomas Hearst - 6'9, Jarvis Christian College
Tony Car - 6'8, UNCP
Travon McGruder 6'6, Albany State
Vernon Collins - 6'6, NC A&T State University
William (B.J.) Walker - 6'9, Oklahoma City
Yandel Brown - 5'10, Columbus State

We hope to be able soon to publish also the 2008 WBA Draft results.

For additional information about the WBA Exposure League, visit www.wbaball.net





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Women News

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ARMENIA - Women

Aleksan finishes the season with UMB -by Eurobasket News
Zaruhi Aleksan (194-82) and her UMB Banska Bystrica finished the participation in Slovak Play-offs. Viktoria beat Slavia UMB Banska Bystrica 71:48 as Perostijska produced 15 points for the winners. Kandracova scored 14 and Krasnockova added 9. Nina Makkova chipped in 19 points in the losing clause. In the second game Viktoria beat UMB Banska Bystrica 67:51. UMB had to admit the loss, but struggled until the end. In her best game Zaruhi Aleksan recorded 13 points over Viktoria on March 15th.

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AUSTRIA - Women

Standings - AWBL
AWBL Standings
Hauptrunde 1
 1. Herzogenb. 14-2 
 2. Fl.Foxes 13-3 
 3. Wels 9-7 
 4. Klosterneub. 4-12 
 5. Vienna 87 0-16 
Hauptrunde 2
 1. Wien 5-2 
 2. Graz 2-3 
 3. Baden 2-4 


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BULGARIA - Women

Standings - Women
A1 Standings
1. Lukoil 18-2
2. Dunav 18-2
3. Beroe 2007 10-10
4. Rilski Sportist 9-11
5. Montana 2003 6-14
6. Slavia 5-15
7. NSA 0-12


Lukoil Neftochimic moved at top of the table, defeated Dunav Econt once again -by Valentin Anguelov

Lukoil Neftochimic defeated Dunav Econt with the score of 72-60 as they managed to do the same coming back victory as the one in the final of Cup of Bulgaria. With this win Lukoil Neftochimic moved ahead of Dunav Econt in the table and practically got the home court advantage in eventual final series in the playoffs 2008. They do have two games left until the end of the regular season but there is a big gap between the best two women teams in the country and other squads. If both Lukoil Neftochimic and Dunav Econt finish with the same record, the team fro Bourgas will hold the edge in the games between them during the year.

The players of coach Petko Marinov started the game very motivated and after 3:30 minutes of play they had 6 points advantage (9-3). They hold the same difference in the next 3 minutes when the visitors stopped them with strong defense for a while. Veteran Hristina Minkova gave Dunav Econt their first lead 16-18 but soon after that Nataliya Topalova (187-F-80) equalize at 18 apiece. That was the score at the end of the first quarter.

The visitors got their second lead of the game at 25-26 while soon after that two 3-pointers by Aneta Miteva and Diana Naydenova pushed the score up to 7 points in their favor (25-32). Until the half time break Lukoil Neftochimic cut the distance to only 4 points (31-35).

Coach Marinov knew how to motivate his players and with 3 pointer by American Chamika Scott and two pointer by Radostina Slavova (186-F-86) put the home team up by a point (36-35). At the end of the third quarter Lukoil Neftochimic led by 50-47 and from that point on run away from their opponent. Home team players gave no chance to Dunav Econt and at the end even won the game by double digits.

Once again Chamika Scott played very well as she did in the final of Cup of Bulgaria against the same team. She got big help from Slavova, Topalova and Mihalkova while shooting percentage of Svetla Asenova from Dunav wasn't one of her best. She played some of the best games this season versus Lukoil Neftochimic but this time she managed only 3 of 13 for 2 points.

For the winners Slavova was the best scorer with 16 points as she added 9 boards as well. Scott finished with 15 points and 7 rebounds while Topalova ended with 14 points.For Dunav Econt Diana Naydenova captured the most points - 15.

FULL STATS FROM THE GAME LUKOIL NEFTOCHIMIC - DUNAV ECONT



Stats Leaders
Women First A-1 Stats Leaders
Points Per Game
1 Doychinova Rilski Sportist 22
2 Dimitrova Montana 2003 16.1
3 Nikolovska 15.8
4 Topalova Lukoil Neftochimic 15.8
5 Fabianova 15.8
Rebounds Per Game
1 Doychinova Rilski Sportist 10.4
2 Ninova NSA Delta 9
3 Miteva Rilski Sportist 7.3
4 Dimitrova Montana 2003 7.1
5 Petrova Montana 2003 6.9
Assists Per Game
1 Koleva NSA Delta 3.1
2 Bachkova Beroe 07 3.1
3 Naydenova Dunav Econt 2.9
4 Kostova Lukoil Neftochimic 2.5
5 Jordanova Dunav Econt 2.2
Ranking
1 Doychinova Rilski Sportist 20.1
2 Topalova Lukoil Neftochimic 17.6
3 Zhelyova Beroe 07 16.4
4 Fabianova 15.5
5 Minkova Dunav Econt 15.1


Lukoil Neftochimic meets Dunav Econt tonight at 17.30 -by Eurobasket News
Another key game between two beat teams of Bulgarian League is scheduled for tonight in Bourgas. For now Dunav Econt has 18-1 record taking the top position in Bulgaria. Lukoil Neftochimic follows it with 17-2 and has a good chance not only to catch up, but to take the first position.
In the three games that already were played by the teams in the regular season. At first Dunav won over Lukoil 66:61. Lukoil Neftochimic beat Dunav Econt in the last game of the round and finished the first part of it on the top place. After 61:66 in the first game Lukoil Neftochimic advantaged with 69:53 victory. The hosts started as if they had to and finished the first quarter at 19:14. Dunav Econt bounced back with 13:17 to reduce the score at the half. The third quarter brought much success for the hosts as they spurted with 18:7 in it. Radostina Slavova (186-F-86) nailed the winners with 19 points. Katya Kordova and Dimana Makarieva (183-C-84) followed her with 11 points each. Roksana Yordanova (184-G-84) top-scored with 14 points in the losing effort.
On February 18th Dunav Econt outscored Lukoil Neftochimic in another thriller shown from both teams. The hosts grabbed 81:74 win that was second this season between these teams. Dunav Econt opened the game with 20:12 lead and held the score for good in the second quarter as well, but Lukoil Neftochimic reduced due to 20:27 in the end of the half. The guests tasted the victory in the third quarter with 19:22, however Dunav Econt thanked the spectators for their support producing 22:13 in the last. Svetlana Asenova-Lozanova (190-F-74) paced the winners with 21 points and 11 rebounds. Petya Djambazka netted 17 and Anna Rimpova (183-F-82) scored 16. Natalia Topalova finished the game with 29 points in defeat.

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LATVIA - Women

TTT beat Cesis again! -by Gunars Gailitis

Latvian Woman`s Basketball League

Final second game (best of three)

TTT Riga - SK Cesis 76-56 (17-18; 19-8; 24-12; 16-18) Series 2-0

LaTanya White (170-G-82, college: Mississippi St.) 19+6st, Tare 17+7reb, Brumermane 11, Riley 9+7reb; Nykesha Sales (183-F/G-76, college: Connecticut) 19+5st, Jekabsone 10, Cinite 9

For 3.place. Second game (best of three)


Liepajas metalurgs - Avantis/Turiba 85-57 (15-16; 28-9; 19-16; 23-16) Series 1-1


Viktorija Nazarova (179-C-84) 22+10 reb, Niedola 19+18(!)reb, Zuzane 10, Cirsa 10; Ieva Vitola (189-C-85) 12, Vorma 10



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MONTENEGRO - Women

MNT Super League 3.Round: In derby Jedinstvo-Roling 74-65 , Buducnost win against K.Nuovo 109-49 -by Dragan Scepanovic
In derby game of 3 Round of Montenegrin woman Super-League Basketball Club Jedinstvo in city of B.Polje win against Basketball Club Roling form Niksic 74-57 (23-11,17-20,18-17,16-9).In team of Basketball Club Jedinstvo best was Maksimovic with 19 points and also good game play Vucinic with 17 points, Knezevic and Bigovic score 15 points.In team of Basketball Club Roling Maltez score 14 points and Todorovic score 10 points.In second game of 3 Round of MNT woman Super-League Buducnost win in city of H.Novi against Basketball Club Castel Nuovo 109-49 , best player of the game was Iva Perovanovic with 27 points

Standings - Women League
League Standings
Superleague
 1. Buducnost 3-0 
 2. Jedinstvo 2-1 
 3. Roling Niksic 1-2 
 4. BC Kastel 0-3 
Premier League
 1. BC Rozaje 0-0 
 2. BC H.Novi 0-0 
 3. Kotor 0-0 
 4. Rudar 0-0 


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NORWAY - Women

U18 NT for Nordic Championship -by Kaare Vangen
These players will represent Norway when the Nordic Championship will be played in Sweden. The tournament is played in week 18.
Katrine Fjærestad (Gimle)
Edda Ulset (Asker)
Caroline Hannisdal (Asker)
Sigrid Skorpen (Asker)
Tonje Milde (Gimle)
Hannah Hirsch (Ullern)
Marit Moberg Vossgård (Hop)
Katrin Bruce (Hop)
Marte Karlstad (Hop)
Cecilie Wetter (Sodertalje)
Maren Austgulen (Hop)
Hege Blikra (BK)


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PORTUGAL - Women

Final 4 draw results -by Bruno Baltazar
In a polemic rule the draw to define the final 4 match ups was there and here's the result of the same draw:

26th April
15h: Vagos vs Alges
17h: Olivais vs ESSA

27th April-FINAL
15h:

The 1st place in the regular season will face the 3rd and the 2nd will match up against the 3rd.
Anything can happen in just one game and any team might win the champ or go to the final of the portuguese league ,a model that in many persons view need to be changed for the good of womans portuguese basketball.

Liga Feminina final four ( semi-finals) preview -by Luis Rocha
The draw to the final four was held today, and ...it could be worse....it could turn out that the first of the regular season will play the second, and the third the fourth....but all things consider it comes out the second best solution, the first (Olivais) will play the third (ESSA) and the second (Alges) will face the fourth (Vagos). The first game of this 'strange' semis will be aremake of the final of Taca de Portugal. Then Vagos beat Alges and comes out as the deserved winner. Both teams have good players and some of them capable to turn things to their teams side, this game will be the fourth of the season between the two teams. In the regular season Vagos won in Alges, and lost at home. The third game was the already talked final that Vagos won. Vagos has a roster with taller players than Alges to play inside, Alges has better players to play in the perimeter. This game will certainly be decided by the capacitie of Vagos to stop Maxann Reese (176-G-78, college: Michigan St.). If they managed to stop her I really think they got half way in to the final, the other half will be the game that specially Fernanda Beling (180-F-82) will do, if she's in a day off, Vagos will not set the other 50% to assure the game. Alges by his side has to solve the big problem that comes in position 3, because Belling can play well inside and outside, and Alges doesn't have a player to do this position as decisive as she. I'll go for Vagos, but will certainly be a fun game tgo watch. Olivais is my favourite to the game with ESSA. In the regular season Olivais won at home and on the road. Pauline Nsimbo is faster than Lindsay Brown (191-F-84, college: W.Michigan) and that will certainly cause that ESSA will have to help a lot inside, leaving space to Aja Parham (-84) to shoot and penentrate, and that can seriously harm ESSA. But coach Carlos Caetano knows that and has a ggod chance to cause problems to Olivais if he managed to take profit on the missmatch in position 1, where Larisse Lima (177-G/F-88) (strong and tall for a guard) is very much capable to cause some real damage to anyone that Olivais will set to defend her. All the guards of Olivais will have big trouble to defend Larisse. Another good game to watch, and now each team will have to prepare this final stage of the competition, and leave behind their backs the abnormal decisions took by the Portuguese Federation and some Basketball Associations of the countrie. Time to play not to sob.

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SLOVAKIA - Women

The semifinals are on the way to start -by Eurobasket News
KOSIT 2013 and Viktoria open the first semifinals tonight in Slovakia. None of the four Quarterfinals brought more than two games in the series.
Quarterfinal Round in Slovak Republic brought 2-0 for KOSIT 2013 over AT GEMTEX Roznava. Janel McCarville (188-C-82, college: Minnesota) led the winners with 24 points in 100:66 first game. Fabianova netted 19, while Jurcenkova scored 16. Eva Antalecova (180-F-66) ended up with 17 points in defeat. KOSIT 2013 won also away from home 99:64 in the second game to advance.
Viktoria beat Slavia UMB Banska Bystrica 71:48 as Perostijska produced 15 points for the winners. Kandracova scored 14 and Krasnockova added 9. Nina Makkova (181-C-88) chipped in 19 points in the losing clause. In the second game Viktoria beat UMB Banska Bystrica 67:51.
Tomorrow MBK Ruzomberok will take on INPEK UKF Nitra that upset the first one for several times this season. In the Quarterfinals MBK Ruzomberok overcame Whirpool Poprad 88:74. The game was done already after three quarters but then the guests reduced the gap. Whirpool Poprad won the last period 21:29 and lost with 14 points margin. Regina Palusna (192-C-89) paced all the winners with 19 points. Podesvova scored 17 and Okonkwova had 13. Sadio Sangare (191-C-80, college: Oklahoma City) showed a good game in defeat nailing 28 points. In the second game MBK Ruzomberok won 96:75.
Gabriela Kubatova (172-G-84) and Dagmar Chlebovcova paced Nitra with 18 points each over Cassovia, 80:59 in the opening game. With 66:49 Nitra advanced to the semis.

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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. Kelly Webster (ANT)
7. T'eandra Richardson (CAHS)
8. Aesha Peters (CAHS)
9. Nicki Peterson (CAHS)
10. Shari Jarvis (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. Nicki Llanos (EC)
Alternative Kemisha Harris (EC)