EUROBASKET NEWS REPORT - 4/2/2008

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Men News

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ABA

The good and bad of the ABA season -by Chris Munson
The good:
The Vermont Frost Heaves, Halifax Rainmen, Manchester Millrats, Quebec City Kebekwa, Atlanta Vision and the Texas Tycoons.

Teams like Atlanta, Vermont, Halifax and Manchester stepping to the plate and filling in for teams that folded. The loss of even one game in the world of minor league basketball can be devastating for the finances and fan base of a franchise.

The All-Star Game in Barre, Vermont which was an incredible success. The place was packed, the cowbells were ringing, (I suggest Advil by the dozen when attending a game for the guaranteed post-game headache) and the players put on a fantastic show. The guys were signing autographs before the game and after the game until their hands fell off.



The bad:
35 percent of the original schedule being played.

19 teams folding during the season.
Houston Takers owner Larry Leonard failing to appear for a scheduled game against the Texas Tycoons because of icy road conditions. (It was 67 degrees outside. The only thing icy were the ice cubes in Leonard's morning orange juice.

The Georgia Gwizzlies announcing they had made the ABA playoffs…….In December!!! An addition to the Gwizzlies is owner Embry Malone's inability to write a press release that did not cause my spell and grammar check to explode. One of the releases was so bad that exploding computer parts landed in Washington DC. That in turn forced President Bush to contemplate declaring war against the great state of Georgia because he thought the nation was under attack.

Oh, more on the Gwizzlies. When Atlanta went to play the Gwizz, the total attendance was estimated at 15. There were no concessions, no ticket takers, and one individual who was at the game said, 'It looked like we were going to a rec league game.'

Did I mention that only 35 percent of the league's scheduled games were actually played?

I could go on, but I have a 5,000 word limit on this article.

ABA 2007-08 All Star Teams released -by Gianni Pascucci
The American Basketball Association released the 2007-2008 All Star teams as well as the league's Most Valuable Player and Coach of the Year Awards. They are:

ABA Most Valuable Player:
Anthony Anderson (5'11''-G-81, college: Massachusetts), Manchester Millrats

ABA Coach of the Year:
Will Voigt , Vermont Frost Heaves

First Team All-ABA
Anthony Anderson, Manchester Millrats
Mario Kinsey (6'2''-G-82, college: Sam Houston St.), Texas Tycoons
Cardell Butler (6'4''-F-81, college: Utah St.), San Diego Wildcats
Eric Crookshank (6'7''-F-80, college: Idaho St.), Halifax Rainmen
Terrance Greene (6'4''-G/F-81, college: Nevada), Vermont Frost Heaves
Sun Yue (6'9''-G/F-85), Beijing Aoshen

Second Team All-ABA
Robin Kennedy (5'11''-G-74, college: Nevada), Orange County Gladiators
Tommy Mitchell (6'3''-G-82, college: Siena), Montreal Royal
Issa Konare (6'8''-F-80, college: High Point), Vermont Frost Heaves
Samuel Audet-Sow (6'6''-F-80), Quebec Kebekwa
Jerome Habel (6'10''-F-85, college: San Diego St.), San Diego Wildcats

Third Team All-ABA
Darwin Carter (6'0''-G-76, college: Angelo St.), Maywood Buzz
Kenny Wright (6'0''-G), Long Beach Breakers
Antonio Burks (6'6''-F-82, college: Stephen F. Austin), Vermont Frost Heaves
Devaughn Lamont (6'10''-C-84, college: Cal.St.-Monterey), San Francisco Rumble
Jamal Kendrick (6'8''-F-75, college: Baylor), San Diego Wildcats

ABA Honorable Mention:
Cordell Jeanty (6'5''-F-79, college: John A.Logan CC) (Montreal Blizzard), B.J. Puckett (6'9''-F-83, college: Clayton St.) (Atlanta Vision), Al Stewart (5'10''-G-83, agency: Rice and Rice, college: Drake) (Manchester Millrats), Jamaal Brooks (6'5''-G-83, college: New Haven) (Boston Blizzard), Joey Britto (6'6''-G-83, college: Mass.-Dartmouth) (Jersey Express), Tarron Williams (6'7''-F-76, college: Cal.St.-San Bernar.) (OC Gladiators), Sean Dixon (6'2''-G-85) (Atlanta Vision), Ismael Caro (6'0''-G-82, agency: Paris Global Sports, college: New Haven) (Manchester Millrats), Charles Fortier (6'4''-G-79) (Quebec Kebekwa), Staten Jamel (6'6''-G-83, college: Minn.St.-Mankato) (Beijing Aoshen), Jomo Belfor (6'0''-G-83, agency: Tank Sports, college: JMU) (Westchester Phantoms), Randall Williams (6'8''-F/C-82, college: Tarleton St.) (Texas Tycoons).

ABA Playoffs are Over! -by Chris Munson
Well, it is playoff time in the ABA, and of course not only is the Great Eight being played, but the rumor mill surrounding the ABA has heated up, and for those who know my work from Our Sports Central, there is of course commentary on the state of the ABA.

First off, before the playoffs even started, we saw the latest casualty of the troubled league as the Halifax Rainmen ceased operations before their first playoff game. Nancy Shepard, the PR representative from the Rainmen told me that the decision was made due to the lack of stability in the league, and the fact teams could not be counted on to show up for games. The proverbial last straw was when the Bahama Pro Show informed the Rainmen less than 24 hours before the first of two games that they would not be making the trip. As a result, the Atlanta Vision pulled their team together and filled in for the Pro Show with the two teams splitting the weekend series. Hats off to Atlanta owners Quinton Townsend and Carter Patterson for getting the team together and up to Halifax on such short notice. The loss of those two home games could have been financially devastating to the Rainmen.

The ABA All-Star Game in Barre, Vermont; the home of the defending champion Vermont Frost Heaves, was a huge success. A crowd of about 1,500 turned out for the game that was won by the East squad 161-140. Manchester's Anthony Anderson won MVP honors with a team high 33 points; San Diego's Cardell Butler had a game high 34 for the West. ABA CEO Joe Newman was in attendance along with Manchester GM Ian McCarthy, Atlanta owner Quinton Townsend and a strong contingent of NBA and CBA scouts. Kudos to Frost Heaves owner Alex Wolff and his staff for putting together a great show for the fans of Central Vermont.

CEO Newman has repeatedly said that he has not, and will not recruit teams from other leagues to play in the ABA. A copy of an e-mail has been obtained from CEO Newman to PBL teams that certainly give the appearance that he is in fact trying to get PBL teams to return to his troubled league. The e-mail says:

'Hope all is well with you. Congratulations on completing your season. I hope that you did well. Just wanted to let you know that you would be welcome back into the ABA next season. We have significant expansion in your area with solid new teams in New Jersey, Pennsylvania, New York et al. New teams are posting a $30,000 LOC and a non-compete. If you are interested, please let me know. Thanks. Best personal regards.
Joe Newman
ABA CEO'

Now I don't know about you, but this certainly looks like Mr. Newman is in fact trying to get former ABA teams back into the league. Newman has gone on record in the past saying that he will never recruit teams from other leagues for his own; obviously he is not standing by his own statements.


Commentary on the state of the ABA - Part 1 -by Gianni Pascucci

(courtesy of Chris Munson chris.munson8@gmail.com )
Well, it is season over in the ABA, and it is time to talk about the state of this league. First off, before the playoffs even started, we saw the latest casualty of the troubled league as the Halifax Rainmen ceased operations before their first playoff game. Nancy Shepard, the PR representative from the Rainmen told me that the decision was made due to the lack of stability in the league, and the fact teams could not be counted on to show up for games. The proverbial last straw was when the Bahama Pro Show informed the Rainmen less than 24 hours before the first of two games that they would not be making the trip. As a result, the Atlanta Vision pulled their team together and filled in for the Pro Show with the two teams splitting the weekend series. Hats off to Atlanta owners Quinton Townsend and Carter Patterson for getting the team together and up to Halifax on such short notice. The loss of those two home games could have been financially devastating to the Rainmen.
The ABA All-Star Game in Barre, Vermont; the home of the defending champion Vermont Frost Heaves, was a huge success. A crowd of about 1,500 turned out for the game that was won by the East squad 161-140. Manchester's Anthony Anderson (5'11''-G-81, college: Massachusetts) won MVP honors with a team high 33 points; San Diego's Cardell Butler (6'4''-F-81, college: Utah St.) had a game high 34 for the West. ABA CEO Joe Newman was in attendance along with Manchester GM Ian McCarthy, Atlanta owner Quinton Townsend and a strong contingent of NBA and CBA scouts. Kudos to Frost Heaves owner Alex Wolff and his staff for putting together a great show for the fans of Central Vermont. CEO Newman has repeatedly said that he has not, and will not recruit teams from other leagues to play in the ABA. A copy of an e-mail has been obtained from CEO Newman to PBL teams that certainly give the appearance that he is in fact trying to get PBL teams to return to his troubled league. The e-mail says:
'Hope all is well with you. Congratulations on completing your season. I hope that you did well. Just wanted to let you know that you would be welcome back into the ABA next season. We have significant expansion in your area with solid new teams in New Jersey, Pennsylvania, New York et al. New teams are posting a $30,000 LOC and a non-compete. If you are interested, please let me know. Thanks. Best personal regards.
Joe Newman - ABA CEO'
Now I don't know about you, but this certainly looks like Mr. Newman is in fact trying to get former ABA teams back into the league. Newman has gone on record in the past saying that he will never recruit teams from other leagues for his own; obviously he is not standing by his own statements.


NOTE: Chris Munson is a brand new contributing writer for US Basket. Chris is the former Sports Director for ESPN Radio Vermont and has written for Our Sports Central, Varsity Magazine, d3football.com, the Vermont Guardian and the Vermont Times. Chris has also been selected by the Vermont chapter of the ALS Association to represent the state at ALS National Advocacy Week in Washington DC. The event takes place May 11th-13th with the goal being to raise awareness of the disease to the public and to lobby our leaders to push for greater funding for ALS research. For more information on the ALS Association, go to www.alsa.org



Rumors about the ABA and the PBL -by Gianni Pascucci
(written together with Chris Munson)
Let's write a piece about the rumors involving the PBL and the ABA.... After all, the PBL was born from an ABA rib, you know...
Sources are saying Atlanta owner Quinton Townsend may be purchasing a part of the ABA. When asked about this at the ABA All-Star Game, Townsend denied the claim. Speaking of which, it is also rumored that CEO Joe Newman will be stepping down. Newman has asked for an undisclosed amount of cash spread out over six years in exchange for his retirement....
Merger talks between the CBA and PBL seem to be heating up. Multiple sources say a deal could be reached by May. One of the other pervasive rumors has stronger ABA teams such as Manchester, Vermont, Montreal and the former Halifax franchise being invited to join the new league.
ABA Vice President of Operations Brad Hester, and step-son of CEO Newman has resigned from his position with the league. Numerous sources have said Hester resigned in part because of the fact he has not been paid since August and well, he does have a family to support.
The Texas Tycoons were rumored to be leaving the ABA before the start of the playoffs, but that could not be confirmed. One source says it is due to issues with the ABA, another has said CEO Newman may be removing the Tycoons from the ABA. This is due to the fact that Tycoons head coach Jean-Paul Afif, assistant coach Mike Senters , and a large number of the Tycoons players have been playing for the PBL's Dallas Defenders, as Usbasket.com revealed some weeks ago. Are you ready to see all the Tycoons finally playing a PBL game with their original gold and green shirt ?
Just after the PBL Final game, PBL Co-Owner Severko Hrywnak stated to local media that, because of this season's success, teams in 22 cities submitted applications to play in the PBL next year. But he wants the leagues growth to be slow and methodical. Hrywnak says only 4 to 6 new teams will play in the 08-09 season. How all this can go along the rumors regarding a possible merger between the CBA and the PBL ?? And what about the interest in PBL showed by top ABA teams like Vermont, Manchester, and all the Canadian ones ? We remember that the same official PBL website tells about two 2008-09 expansion teams based (what a case !) in Toronto and Montreal ....

Commentary on the state of the ABA - Part 2 -by Gianni Pascucci

(courtesy of Chris Munson chris.munson8@gmail.com )
This season was yet another unmitigated disaster for the ABA. The league started the season with 35 teams and was down to 16 or so by the end of the regular season. How is this for a statistic? Only 36 percent of the league's originally scheduled games were played this year. 36 percent!!!! This is a ridiculous, appalling, and shameful number. How in the world can a league expect to survive when only 36 percent of their games were actually played? In between teams folding, teams like the Houston Takers failing to show for a game due to a 'ice storm', (The temperature that day was 67 degrees....) arena issues, etc, it was another train wreck of a season for the league. I had the opportunity to meet CEO Newman at the All-Star Game in Barre. I found Newman to be pleasant, polite, and a total and complete gentleman. But, the fact remains that the only way this league has a chance of survival is for Newman to resign. The ABA website isn't filled with news on the league; it is filled with releases regarding Mr. Newman's various business ventures that have nothing to do with the ABA. The standings are never updated, and simple things like scoring averages, three point percentages, and statistical information is nowhere to be found on the ABA website. For goodness sakes, there isn't even any updated information on the Great Eight. I actually had to e-mail Mr. Newman to get the score of a couple of the games. One would think that the post season tournament deserves some mention on the league's official website.
Finally, another statistic: Since Newman took over the league in 2000-2001, there have been 172 teams (!!) that have left the ABA. (Believe it or not, I have a list of the teams. Shoot me an e-mail if you want a copy and let me know if I missed any.)
Newman says he wants to expand to 50 teams next season, but logically, how can he keep expanding when he can't keep his existing teams? What it boils down to is once the $10,000 market reservation fee is received by the ABA office, Mr. Newman's involvement is more or less complete. Due diligence is not performed on prospective teams, marketing plans are not reviewed, and simple things like the ability to write a press release (See the Georgia Gwizzlies releases for a typo filled, grammar check exploding excuse for writing.) are not taught or emphasized. All of this not only makes the league look bad, it makes all of minor league basketball look bad. For the sake of the game and the fans, this league needs to be blown up and started from scratch. Speaking of starting the league from scratch, as I really should not be saying the league should be blown up without my own solutions. First of all, leave the teams in the league that are doing well, and then limit expansion to a reasonable number of teams. The league has had problems keeping teams, so the teams that are in the league need to be stable. Secondly, Mr. Newman has said the market reservation fee will go up to $30,000 and a line of credit will be required to help in covering expenses. I say this needs to be taken one step further and perform due diligence on each and every team entering the league. Conduct a background check, make sure ownership groups have enough cash to get through the season, and make sure each team not only has a signed arena deal in place, but review marketing plans, website designs, and require each team has a radio deal in place so games can be broadcasted. This will ensure a prospective owner has his/her act together and is committed to building a fan base. Now, I have to say, there are owners and personnel in this league whom I have immense respect for. Alex Wolff of the Frost Heaves has done incredible things for the State of Vermont, and especially Barre where the economy has been suffering and crime has gone up. Alex and the Heaves have given this area something to cheer for. Quinton Townsend and Carter Patterson in Atlanta are world class human beings; Jean-Paul Afif and Michael Senters of Texas are not only NBA caliber coaches, but are two of the nicest guys I have ever met. That being said, these guys deserve better.



Resuming the good and bad of the last ABA season -by Gianni Pascucci
(courtesy of Chris Munson chris.munson8@gmail.com )
THE GOOD:
- The Vermont Frost Heaves, Halifax Rainmen, Manchester Millrats, Quebec City Kebekwa, Atlanta Vision and the Texas Tycoons.
- Teams like Atlanta, Vermont, Halifax and Manchester stepping to the plate and filling in for teams that folded. The loss of even one game in the world of minor league basketball can be devastating for the finances and fan base of a franchise.
- The All-Star Game in Barre, Vermont which was an incredible success. The place was packed, the cowbells were ringing, (I suggest Advil by the dozen when attending a game for the guaranteed post-game headache) and the players put on a fantastic show. The guys were signing autographs before the game and after the game until their hands fell off.
THE BAD:
- 35 percent of the original schedule being played.
- 19 teams folding during the season.
- Houston Takers owner Larry Leonard failing to appear for a scheduled game against the Texas Tycoons because of icy road conditions. (It was 67 degrees outside. The only thing icy were the ice cubes in Leonard's morning orange juice).
- The Georgia Gwizzlies announcing they had made the ABA playoffs…….In December !!! An addition to the Gwizzlies is owner Embry Malone's inability to write a press release that did not cause my spell and grammar check to explode. One of the releases was so bad that exploding computer parts landed in Washington DC. That in turn forced President Bush to contemplate declaring war against the great state of Georgia because he thought the nation was under attack.
- Oh, more on the Gwizzlies. When Atlanta went to play the Gwizz, the total attendance was estimated at 15. There were no concessions, no ticket takers, and one individual who was at the game said, 'It looked like we were going to a rec league game.'
- Did I mention that only 35 percent of the league's scheduled games were actually played ..... ?
- I could go on, but I have a word limit on this article......

Commentary on the state of the ABA -by Chris Munson
This season was yet another unmitigated disaster for the ABA. The league started the season with 35 teams and was down to 16 or so by the end of the regular season. How is this for a statistic? Only 36 percent of the league's originally scheduled games were played this year. 36 percent!!!! This is a ridiculous, appalling, and shameful number. How in the world can a league expect to survive when only 36 percent of their games were actually played? In between teams folding, teams like the Houston Takers failing to show for a game due to a 'ice storm', (The temperature that day was 67 degrees) arena issues, etc, it was another train wreck of a season for the league.

I had the opportunity to meet CEO Newman at the All-Star Game in Barre. I found Newman to be pleasant, polite, and a total and complete gentleman. But, the fact remains that the only way this league has a chance of survival is for Newman to resign. The ABA website isn't filled with news on the league; it is filled with releases regarding Mr. Newman's various business ventures that have nothing to do with the ABA. The standings are never updated, and simple things like scoring averages, three point percentages, and statistical information is nowhere to be found on the ABA website. For goodness sakes, there isn't even any updated information on the Great Eight. I actually had to e-mail Mr. Newman to get the score of a couple of the games. One would think that the post season tournament deserves some mention on the league's official website.

Finally, another statistic: Since Newman took over the league in 2000-2001, there have been 172 teams that have left the ABA. (Believe it or not, I have a list of the teams. Shoot me an e-mail if you want a copy and let me know if I missed any.)

Newman says he wants to expand to 50 teams next season, but logically, how can he keep expanding when he can't keep his existing teams? What it boils down to is once the $10,000 market reservation fee is received by the ABA office, Mr. Newman's involvement is more or less complete. Due diligence is not performed on prospective teams, marketing plans are not reviewed, and simple things like the ability to write a press release (See the Georgia Gwizzlies releases for a typo filled, grammar check exploding excuse for writing.) are not taught or emphasized. All of this not only makes the league look bad, it makes all of minor league basketball look bad. For the sake of the game and the fans, this league needs to be blown up and started from scratch.

Speaking of starting the league from scratch, as I really should not be saying the league should be blown up without my own solutions. First of all, leave the teams in the league that are doing well, and then limit expansion to a reasonable number of teams. The league has had problems keeping teams, so the teams that are in the league need to be stable.

Secondly, Mr. Newman has said the market reservation fee will go up to $30,000 and a line of credit will be required to help in covering expenses. I say this needs to be taken one step further and perform due diligence on each and every team entering the league. Conduct a background check, make sure ownership groups have enough cash to get through the season, and make sure each team not only has a signed arena deal in place, but review marketing plans, website designs, and require each team has a radio deal in place so games can be broadcasted. This will ensure a prospective owner has his/her act together and is committed to building a fan base.

Now, I have to say, there are owners and personnel in this league whom I have immense respect for. Alex Wolff of the Frost Heaves has done incredible things for the State of Vermont, and especially Barre where the economy has been suffering and crime has gone up. Alex and the Heaves have given this area something to cheer for. Quinton Townsend and Carter Patterson in Atlanta are world class human beings; Jean-Paul Afif and Michael Senters of Texas are not only NBA caliber coaches, but are two of the nicest guys I have ever met. That being said, these guys deserve better.


Rumor mill runs rampant -by Chris Munson
Sources are saying Atlanta owner Quinton Townsend may be purchasing a part of the ABA. When asked about this at the ABA All-Star Game, Townsend denied the claim. Speaking of which, it is also rumored that CEO Joe Newman will be stepping down. Newman has asked for an undisclosed amount of cash spread out over six years in exchange for his retirement.

At the All-Star Game, CEO Joe Newman told me next season there will be a team in Oakland, CA and two teams in Las Vegas. Plans for a team in Concord, CA; a San Francisco suburb, seem to have fallen through. Having grown up in the Bay Area, I can tell you this is another team that would fall into the infamous ABA graveyard. The area east of the Caldecott Tunnel can barely support high school basketball, so professional basketball would be a stretch.

Merger talks between the CBA and PBL seem to be heating up. Multiple sources say a deal could be reached by May. One of the other pervasive rumors has stronger ABA teams such as Manchester, Vermont, Montreal and the former Halifax franchise being invited to join the new league.

ABA Vice President of Operations Brad Hester, and step-son of CEO Newman has resigned from his position with the league. Numerous sources have said Hester resigned in part because of the fact he has not been paid since August and well, he does have a family to support.

The Texas Tycoons are rumored to be leaving the ABA but that could not be confirmed. One source says it is due to issues with the ABA, another has said CEO Newman may be removing the Tycoons from the ABA. This is due to the fact that Tycoons head coach Jean-Paul Afif, assistant coach Mike Senters, and players such as All-Star guard Mario Kinsey have been playing for the PBL's Dallas Defenders.

The rumors continue to fly regarding a possible merger of the CBA and the PBL. Added to this are reports from a couple of different sources that if asked, the ABA's Vermont Frost Heaves, Manchester Millrats, Montreal Royal and the former Halifax franchise would be joining the new league.

Chris Munson is a contributing writer for US Basket. Chris is the former Sports Director for ESPN Radio Vermont and has written for Our Sports Central, Varsity Magazine, d3football.com, the Vermont Guardian and the Vermont Times. Chris has also been selected by the Vermont chapter of the ALS Association to represent the state at ALS National Advocacy Week in Washington DC. The event takes place May 11th-13th with the goal being to raise awareness of the disease to the public and to lobby our leaders to push for greater funding for ALS research. For more information on the ALS Association, go to www.alsa.org

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ADRIATIC LEAGUE

Play-off quarterfinals: Union Olimpija joins Partizan, Hemofarm, and Zadar in Final 4 -by Dragan Jankovski
Crvena Zvezda suffered a very inconvenient home defeat against Union Olmpija 74-96. Thus the team from Ljubljana is the last member of Adriatic League Final 4. Except for the first quarter, the team of head coach Aleksandar Dzikic dominated until the end of the game. The visitors had a much better percentage for FG2 and from behind the arc (11/21). Their maximum advantage during the game was plus 26, which happened in the last period. Jasmin Hukic (204-G/F-79, agency: Beo Basket) was the key player for the winners as he added 19 points, 5 assists and 4 steals. Goran Dragic (192-G-86, agency: Interperformances), who added 18 points and 5 assists, and Ronell Taylor (196-G-82, college: UAB), who scored 19 points, followed Hukic. Zvezda got 18 points from Vujadin Subotic (198-G-81, agency: Beo Basket) and 15 points and 6 assists from Omar Cook (186-G-82, college: St.John's).

Zvezda's head coach Stevan Karadzic after the game stated that his players are very tired because they played a lot of games during the last month. He also stated that their captain and best player Tadija Dragicevic has slight muscle injury and he has only played games during the last 20 days without any practice.

Head coach of Union Olimpija Aleksandar Dzikic was satisfied after the game, especially because his team showed they are able win important road games.


Crvena Zvezda - Union Olimpija 74-97
(17-19,21-29,14-23,22-26)

Crvena Zvezda: Subotic 18, Cook 15 (6 as), Lekic 10
Olimpija: Hukic 19 (5 as, 4 st), Taylor 19, Dragic 18 (5 as), Zupan 15

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ARGENTINA

TNA update -by Facundo Iatzky
Quarterfinal series: (will start the next wek- best of 5)

1 Union sunchales - Echague Parana
2 San martin marcos juarez - Argentino junin
3San martin Corrientes - Lanus
4Pedro Echague Saladillo - Ciclista Olimpico

Echague with some problems:
Atletico Echague parana is having some mony problms so the players decided not to train until the club pay them. They even thought not to play the quarterfinal series, but it seems they will do.

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AUSTRALIA

Bogut keen to stay with Bucks -by Sohail Nasri


ANDREW Bogut was left bloodied and bruised after yet another loss with NBA cellar-dwellers Milwaukee, but the Australian insists he wants to extend his multi-million dollar deal with the Bucks.

Bogut continues to produce impressive numbers in his third season, averaging 13.9 points, 9.5 rebounds and 1.8 blocks per game, all NBA career highs.

But the 23-year-old has played virtually a lone hand for Milwaukee, who entered the season with high hopes but currently are last in the Central Division with a 24-46 record.

Milwaukee are 24th overall in the 30-team league.

Bogut had 27 points, nine boards and three blocks against Atlanta, but it wasn't enough to prevent another defeat, 115-96.

Injury was added to insult when the Victorian had to leave the game with seven minutes left with a suspected broken nose after copping an errant elbow from Hawk Marvin Williams.

Bogut is set to make $US6.3 million ($A6.85 million) next season in the final year of the contract he signed after the Bucks made him the No.1 overall pick in the 2005 draft.

He would be highly-coveted if he decided to leave Milwaukee and could boost his profile immeasurably if he linked up with franchises in more prominent cities like Los Angeles, Chicago or New York.

But, despite the team's troubles, Bogut says he wants to remain with the Bucks and help to turn the club around.

The seven-footer is hoping to sign a contract extension before linking up with the Australian team for the Olympics after the season.

'I'd love to return,' he told the Milwaukee Journal-Sentinel.

'I wouldn't have bought a house (in Milwaukee) if I didn't see a long-term future.

'I'm settled off the floor, I'm settled on the court.

'It's a proud franchise, so we'd like to get it back to be a winning franchise and have people be proud of wearing a Bucks jersey or a Bucks hat or whatever.'

Bogut will be a key member of the Boomers at the Beijing Olympics, part of what should be an impressive frontline including former NBA player Chris Anstey and the European-based Matt Nielsen and David Andersen.

Having put pressure on himself to lift his production in his third season in the NBA, Bogut has certainly delivered.

'I think he's received the ball more and is being counted on more to produce,' Bucks coach Larry Krystkowiak said.

'I think he's one of the best passing big guys in the league.

'He just seems like he's got more confidence.'

*****************************************************
AUSTRIA

Round 33 -by Bernd Maurer
Kapfenberg Bulls - Arkadia Traiskirchen Lions 80:87 (55:57, 40:45, 23:27)

Bulls: Ivan Grgat (210-F/C-74, agency: Court Side) 21, Kevin Nelson (192-G-84, agency: Strategic Sports, college: Park) 17, Branimir Josipovic (204-F-81, agency: Court Side) 15
Lions: Dragan Zekovic (210-F-87, agency: Interperformances) 22, Davor Lamesic (205-F-83, agency: Interperformances) 17, Joey Vickery (180-G-67, college: Brandon) 10

Allianz Swans Gmunden - Xion Dukes Klosterneuburg 97:83 (79:60, 53:38, 30:15)

Swans: Deteri Mayes (189-G-74, agency: Court Side, college: Murray St.) 25, Kevin Johnson (201-F, agency: Hart Sports Mngm, college: Humboldt St.) 19, Ian Boylan (198-G/F-83, college: Cal.St. Northridge) 18
Dukes: Calvin Watson (196-G-85, college: N.Texas) 25, Kevin Martin (208-C-83, college: Florida Gulf Coast) 21, Marquis Wright (203-F/C-80, college: Alabama) 7, Christoph Nagler (193-G-84) 7

Basketball St. Polten - Kraftwerk Wels 95:91 (70:70, 44:45, 18:20)

UBC: Martin Speiser (200-F-83) 21, Martin Kohlmaier (218-C-84, agency: Octagon) 20, Thomas Schreiner (195-G-87) 11
WBC: Kendrick Davis (193-G-84, agency: Hart Sports Mngm, college: N.Texas) 22, Elijah Palmer (201-F-81, agency: Court Side, college: Duquesne) 15, Tilo Klette (205-C/F-77) 15

BSC Raiffeisen Furstenfeld Panthers - Macabido Oberwart Gunners 85:89 (80:80, 62:62, 52:35, 25:16) OT

Panthers: Shelton Colwell (202-F-80, agency: Court Side, college: Missouri St.) 23, Mike Fraser (203-C, agency: Hart Sports Mngm, college: Oklahoma Baptist) 18, Milan Goljovic (203-F-71, agency: Globalsports/Globalevents) 14
Gunners: Jay Youngblood (196-G-84, agency: Strategic Sports, college: Kent St.) 21, Marko Moric (207-F-81, agency: World Sport Agency) 20, Jason Johnson (202-F/C-77, college: Tennessee St.) 18

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BELIZE

SHJC/BNE Harpy Eagles Stuns The Diamonds!!! -by David Magana
Last Friday night at the Falcon Field in San Ignacio the BECOL Basketball Tournament continued its regular season with three games. In the U-17 category the L. A. Tigers (3-0) were victorious over the Wolves (0-2). For the Tigers, Elvis Usher Jr. scored 14 pts, 3 rbs and Shelton Defour Jr: 10 pts, 8 rbs. In a losing effort, Amir Westby scored 11 pts, 5 rbs and Michael Williams 6 pts.

In the U-20 division, St. Ignatius High School (4 - 0) is still unstoppable. This time they walked over the Young Stars (2-1) 51-37; with four players scoring 10 or more pts. Frank Fuller scored 12 pts with 4 rbs, Omar Yacab 10 pts, Elliot Bermudez 10 pts, 3 rbs and Garrett Bermudez 10 pts, 3 rbs. In a losing effort, Julian 'Rrah' Maldonado nailed 13 pts, 3 rbs, 2 steals and Regis Morris 12 pts, 3 rbs.

The night's concluding feature was a senior division game between the undefeated Belize Bank Diamonds (3-1) and the SHJC/BNE Harpy Eagles (3-2). The Diamonds were knocked-out of their complacency last Friday night when the Harpies became the night stars and walked away with a win of 66-55. The first quarter was a slow, but productive one for the Harpies as they started out 15-10. Soon, the Harpies found a way to neutralize the scoring drive of Lester Cadle (188-G-80) through good defensive efforts. The Harpies shut down the Diamonds allowing them a gain of only 8 pts while the Harpies scored 17 pts. Once they had their strategy down, the Harpies easily stole away the lead and did not let go again. The team work displayed by the Harpies was particularly extraordinary in the third quarter as they had their maximum lead of 14 pts. In this quarter, the Harpies scored a total of 25 pts. In the fourth quarter, the Diamonds got as close as 4 pts, but due to lack of concentration allowed the Harpies to increase the deficit to 11 pts. In the end, the college boys took the win by 66-55. For the Harpies, Elton Moore had a great night scoring 19 pts, 2 steals; Halil Alcoser scored 13 pts and Kurt Burgess (-F/C) 9 pts, 10 rbs and 4 assists. In a losing effort, Lester Cadle scored 21 pts, 9 rbs, Milton Hoare 12 pts, 3 rbs and Emerson 'Emo' King 10 pts.

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BOSNIA

Standings - BIH League
D1 Standings
1. Bosna S. 20-3
2. Sloboda Dita 18-5
3. Igokea 16-7
4. Grude 14-9
5. Slavija 12-11
6. Borac Nektar 12-11
7. Zrinjski MC 11-12
8. Hercegovac 10-13
9. Posusje 10-14
10. Zenica Celik 9-14
11. Leotar 8-15
12. Capljina 8-15
13. Vogosca 2-21
Will join on later stage:
1. Siroki -


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BRITISH VIRGIN ISLANDS

Chino does it with monster dunk -by David Edole
Paul On The Ball Hewlett 01.APR.08
The Sharks have continued on the momentum gained in last week's blowout and followed it up with yet another blowout, taking them now into sixth position and in a comfortable place, considering that only the top eight advance to the play-offs.

Randy George (200-F-81, college: Henderson St.) continued his 10-point average which included a monster dunk as the Sharks defeated the Everton Tigers, a massive 104-81.

The first quarter was for the second consecutive game a run-away one for the Sharks which ended 32-14 with guard Alto Virgil scorching the nets from 3-point land and George holding up a solid defense as the very animated Sharks fans got into the heat of the game early on. The second quarter saw the Tigers begin to fight back and close the gap within 10 points, but it was short lived and the half ended 33-46 in favour of the Sharks.

The first half of the third quarter belonged to the Tigers as they trimmed the lead down to a 9-point game 51-42, but the Sharks exploded late in the quarter, amazingly the rock hard defense of George and company allowed just one point and ended it 63-43.

The final quarter was the quarter that any and every BVIslander would have paid money to see as Chino George brought the house down with his biggest monster dunk of the season which may well be one that Sharks fans will talk about for years to come and just kept them buzzing off their seats for the remainder of the game every time George got possession of a ball. I guess it could best be described as an air Jordan style dunk, all that was missing was the dance afterwards; instead the modest George hurried back to defense.

An excited George first spoke about the win, 'Well we approached the game similar to any other game we play now. I came out with a defensive mindset from the start. This was a very important game for us cause they were ahead of us in the standings and we were tied one a piece in the season series and we knew we had to come out and win this game as it was important for playoff positioning.

'I just go out and do what I need to do. I stayed aggressive at all times on both ends of the floor; I just let my offense come to me. I take pride in playing defense, whether it be taking a charge, diving for a loose ball etc, it really doesn't matter, as long as I get the job done and we get the W.'

With the two back to back wins George gave his views why he feels the team have maintained the momentum. 'Well I think it's all about coming together and helping the man next to you, trusting each other and just staying solid all around. We know we are one of the more athletic teams in the league, and when we play the right way, we can beat anyone. We also shot the ball pretty well from the 3 point arc throughout the game, and we had some consistent effort from everyone. Everyone was ready to play, and I think we just need to stay focused and continue pushing.'

And the monster dunk in the 4th quarter where did that come from?

' I just had to show them what time it is and send a message abroad that Chino not only can play defense but is very dangerous offensively,' Chino said.

BVI Basketball League pushing for Mother's Day opening -by David Edole
Paul On The Ball Hewlett 01.APR.08
In the BVI, the basketball season has very much become the supreme sporting event of the year eclipsing sports such as cricket, softball, volleyball and football as the number one sport. Traditionally, the basketball league begins either on or somewhere close to Mother's Day and this year, President Guy ‘The General' Malone has no intention of letting down the fans.

In an exclusive interview with BVI News Online, Mr. Malone outlined his plans for this year's league.

'I am actually in the process of putting together an agenda to address that now as we speak. We are giving out the rosters and we want them back by the 19th of April because we are going to start the league on the 10th of May, the day before Mother's Day. I have already sent letters off to CCT Global Communications asking them to sponsor the opening of the 2008 basketball league.

'When I say sponsor, they will be responsible for decorating the gym with their logos and give us a half-time show. I have also asked them to give an incentive for the best dressed team. They will have an inspection during the ceremony at the opening. I have sent off the letter to them and they are presently working with their executives to come up with something good and have a grand opening,' he explained.

Malone also stated that being President is a tough job.

'I actually took over the presidency after Juggy (Hon. Elvis Harrigan) couldn't do it any more. I volunteered to do it after some of the guys asked me and I just decided to do it. It's a hassle and still an enjoyment to see the league go on because the young guys come out to play. One of the joys I had was last year putting the senior national team together and us going to Puerto Rico. The way the guys performed, the way they behaved and some of the comments we got especially from CBC and FIBA with respect to the team being out of action for so long and still performing so well was really a joy.'

He added: 'Most of you know I started out as player, then a coach for the Disciples and now I am president. I remember being on the other side of the fence, being a coach and attending the meetings with what was then an association. Of course, we are now a federation, and you would ask questions and take for granted the amount of work involved to keep this thing afloat and now I am in the seat of president I can appreciate it is a lot. What I am trying to put across to the coaches and managers is that it's not just the executive body's job, it is their job as well to come together as one and work and do the best we can to raise the level of basketball in the BVI. That is one of the main messages I want to get across to everyone for the 2008 basketball league.'

When asked about the criticism directed at the association and him recently, Malone responded: 'It is easy to turn up on the day and play basketball but when you have the responsibility of president it is a whole different ball game. I wish more people would get involved in the administrative side of basketball and attend some of the overseas meeting that I have to attend. Many I understand can't make it due to job restraints; otherwise I suspect they would take a different view to basketball if they traveled to the meetings. Nevertheless I take all criticism positively. If we put our personal feelings aside, we who are in the federation, and realize that we are here to help and teach the new breed of players coming in and help them learn, things will be much improved.

Regarding the fans, The General stated: 'We are going to do our best to put on a good league. One of the things that were discussed is to put on some good half time entertainment; we want to do more things to involve the fans. We are going to try our best and we are asking for the support of the fans and we in return are really going to put on a good show for them!'

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BULGARIA

Julian Aladjov is the new head coach of Levski -by Valentin Anguelov

Julian Aladjov was selected from the management of Levski as the new head coach of the team. His assistant will be the athletic coach Georgi Draganov.

Aladjov finished his career as a player in Slavia back in 1990 and started as coach in junior formations of the team. He worked in Slavia until 2006 when he moved to Levski. Aladjov is two time champion with Slavia for juniors (14) and juniors (16).

Aladjov has worked in the national youth formations of Bulgaria. Back in 1998 he is assistant of Petko Delev when national juniors team (18) finished eight in Eurobasket in Varna. He was national team coach of juniors (16) from 2001 to 2003 and juniors (18) from 2004 to 2007. During that time he has one 8th place, two times 12th place and once 14th in Division A of Eurobasket.

Until now Aladjov worked as head coach of men team only once, back in 1998/99 when he was ahead of Slavia Sofia.



Standings A1
A1 Standings
1. Lukoil A. 27-0
2. Levski 19-8
3. Balkan 17-10
4. Spartak P. 14-13
5. CSKA 14-13
6. Cherno More 13-14
7. Yambol 9-18
8. Rilski S-list 8-19
9. Dunav 2007 0-0
10. Sliven 0-0


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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CAMEROON

National Basketball News -by Gilles Bouwe
The season have really started littoral and centre provinces.In the littoral province the championship is lead by ECOLE DE BASKET and Phoenix and in the center province the championship is lead by BEAC of yaounde.
But the big news now in the country is the 'SUSPENSION' of our federation by the FIBA.This news coming from a local newspaper which was informed by and international refree who have not saw his name on the international refree list and was told by and FIBA official that our country is suspende due to nonpaiement of cotisations since four years.The federation have denied this allegation but one thing is clear there is no cameroonians now on the FIBA international refrees list.

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CAPE VERDE

The Basketball Federation defines plan for Beijing Olympic qualifiers -by Pedro Gomes
In order to make the admittedly difficult dream of participating in the 2008 Beijing Olympics come true, the Cape Verde National Team national basketball selection will undergo special training prior to heading off to the pre-Olympic tournament in Greece in July.


The president of the Cape Verde National Team Basketball Federation, Kitana Cabral, says that the players will be called together in early June, and will play in an international competition in Praia between June 20 and 23. The event, which will also be used to introduce the team to the Cape Verde National Team public, will feature the national selections of Senegal, Mali, Cameroon and current African champion Angola.

After the tournament, the Cape Verde National Team selection will undergo training in France and Spain before heading to Greece for the Olympic qualifiers.

Kitana Cabral is hopeful regarding Cape Verde's prospects at the Greece tournament, and says that Cape Verde could surprise people. 'As most people are unfamiliar with our style of play, we could surprise them once we get there. Even with renowned countries in the running, even if we have just a 1% chance, we're going to take full advantage of it. Basketball is a marvelous game and we have to believe in our dream,' he affirmed. Basketball instructor Francisco Romero stresses the fact that the bronze medal achieved by Cape Verde in the last African championship is an important motivating factor for the national team, and he is certain the players will give their all in Greece 'and put Cape Verde's name on the highest possible pedestal.'

Lamine Delgado, former National team member, for his part, is not so confident, as he believes that the team still lacks a good deal of experience and a good sequence of games. Delgado affirms that the Cape Verde National Team national team will only make it to the Olympics when a long-term project is put into action in Cape Verde - in other words, investment in the next generation of players. 'If we work with the young athletes of today, in the future they'll be a part of the much-awaited Olympic generation. I am sure of this.' But, like all Cape Verde National Teams who love basketball and the country's national team, he says, 'But if we win the first game...'

*****************************************************
CHINA

Yao May Resume Normal Training in June -by Arthur Volbert
Ming Yao (226-C-80) may resume normal training as early as in June if everything goes smoothly, according to www.sohu.com. Yao's teammate on the national team, Mengke Bateer, revealed the timetable in an interview with the website, saying the star will take about four months to recover.

Bateer said the optimal result will be that Yao will be able to start intensive training when the NBA finals kick off in June. He said the Houston Rockets center has been doing special training to help regain strength in his legs. Yao was diagnosed with a stress fracture in his left foot on February 27 and underwent operation in early March.

If this schedule is maintained, China's national team might actually benefit from Yao's injury. Yao would have been exhausted had the Houston Rockets reached the June NBA finals. He would have accumulated nagging little injuries because of the intensity of the NBA playoffs. Now, if recovery proceeds as estimated, Yao will be well-rested for the Olympics and in better physical condition than if he had continued playing.

*****************************************************
CROATIA

Adriatic League for Croatian side -by Eurobasket News
In the last day of March only four teams remained in Adriatic League and they will participate in Final Four. Croatia will be represented by Zadar that survived against FMP. That was the best pair in the Quarterfinals and both squads showed three games that could be seen even in the Final series. Zadar won the opener in Croatia 95:91 in overtime but then lost also in extra time 94:99 away from home. In the decisive Game 3 Zadar advanced to Final Four with 74:73 win. Croatian side opened the game with 22:15, however was caught in the third quarter as FMP replied with 17:26. The last period brought 18:15 and the ticket to the Final Four. Corey Brewer (188-G-75, college: Oklahoma) led the winners with 23 points. He was named also the MVP of the game and the best player in Games 3 of the Quarterfinals. Todor Gecevski (209-C-77, agency: Interperformances) nailed 17, while Juby Johnson (196-G-81, college: Miami, OH) ended up with 15. Zoran Erceg (211-C/F-85) top-scored in the losing effort with 21 points.
Cibona lost the Quarterfinals campaign to the winner of the regular season Partizan. At first Serbian team won 90:80 at home and then upset Cibona in Croatia 93:100. Split and Zagreb finished the campaign before the Play-offs as they could not advance to them.

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CYPRUS

A tragedy for the Cyprus basketball! -by Chris Mammides
The ex player of Omonia Nicosia, American center Marvin Stone (208-C-81, college: Louisville) is no longer in life. The American center who finished successfully the season with Omonoia, agreed to terms with the Saudi Arabia team Al Ittihad. During the last game of his team, the American center felt dizzy and all of a sudden lost his senses. The people of his team took him immediately in the hospital where they simply announced his death, the causes of his death announced to be a heard attack.
The American player was a gentleman in and out of the courts; he was a smiling person with an open personality. The 27 years old American, had friends in all the countries and courts he ever played as his character and culture were his allies in his career allover the world.
God bless his soul!

Apoel beat Keravnos 79-64 and equilized the finals -by Chris Mammides
Aspis Apoel was dominant this time and beat fairly the Strovolos team 79-64 in the neutral court of Agios Dhometios, which the yellow fans of Apoel created an amazing atmosphere (some say even better than their home court)
Yiangloulis team started the game much better with great focus on defense and great productivity in the scoring from nearly all the team, just after the first five minutes showed their mood as the score was 11-1. The first quarter ended with 21-10, this score created a chaos in the Strovolos team and this was obviously shown as the changes in the team were irregularly and not only that in the second quarter, the Strovolos team saw the men in Gray to be quite tough by calling two technical fouls, increasing the deficit to 20 points. The half time finally ended 40-23. The Strovolos site had big problems in the organization part as the absence of Patrick Lee was more than obvious with Hart, Yiannas and Pilavas trying their best but still not enough to win such a game.
During the third quarter, Keravnos tried to cut the deficit mainly with Bryant Smith (196-G/F-77, college: Auburn) but he was quite alone as the team of Apoel was more of a team and their team spirit and abilities overcome with one way or another the heroic game of Bryant Smith. The fourth and final quarter starter with Keravnos minimizing the deficit up to 7 points but somewhere there, the strength of the only threads for Aspis Apoel, Bryant Smith and Radojevic got silenced, Aspis Apoel with Weeler, Balca Radunovic (206-F/C-80) and Pantouris increased the deficit to 15 points with the final score being 79-64
Top scorers for the two teams:
Aspis Apoel: Gerben Van Dorpe (211-F/C-76, college: Mt.St.Mary's) 11, Pantouris 13, Jo-Jo Garcia 2 and 12 rebounds, Balca Radunovic 15, Weeler 14, Miceta 4, Hansel 9, Serdaris 3 and Jones 8
Keravnos Strovolou: Bryant Smith 22, Hart 9, Anastasiadis 6, Radojevic 8, Damjanovic 6, Yiannas 6, Pilavas 1, Stefanovic 3 and Trisokkas 3.

Nest game will take place in Strovolos on Friday with the psychology being on the site of the visiting team of Apoel as they overcome their 'court punishment' successfully.

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D-LEAGUE

Vipers Knock Off Thunderbirds for Third Time in As Many Games -by Surujh Roopnarine
Trying a new approach to defeat the Vipers, Thunderbirds Head Coach Jeff Ruland started four players who had seen limited or no action in the Thunderbirds last two losses against RGV. Unfortunately for Coach Ruland, the plan did not lead to victory as Kris Collins (6'2''-G-83, college: N.Mexico) tied a career high with 31 points and the Rio Grande Valley Vipers knocked off the visiting Thunderbirds 120-113 for their third consecutive win in as many meetings against Albuquerque. With the win, the Vipers improved to 20-29, still three games behind Albuquerque for fifth in the Southwest Division. Albuquerque has now dropped four in a row and is 20-26 on the season. Julius Hodge (6'7''-G-83, college: N.Carolina St.) and Will Conroy led Albuquerque with 16 points a piece off the bench.
T-BIRDS: Julius Hodge (16p+5rb), Will Conroy (16p+6as), Dwight Brewington (15p), Alando Tucker (13p+5rb)
VIPERS: Kris Collins (31p+8rb+7as), Desmon Farmer (24p+5rb+6as), Stanley Asumnu (20p+11rb), Trent Strickland (17p+6rb)

Last Transactions -by Surujh Roopnarine
The Utah Jazz have re-called rookies Morris Almond (6'6''-F-85, college: Rice) and Kyrylo Fesenko (7'0''-C-86, agency: Arik Krayn Services) from the Flash.
Almond, the 25th selection of the 2007 NBA Draft, has appeared in a total of 31 games for the Flash during two separate stints (Dec. 6 - Jan. 8 and Jan. 25 - March 29), averaging a D-League leading 25.0 points, along with 3.5 rebounds and 1.6 assists in 36.8 minutes per game. Fesenko, a 21-year old native of the Ukraine, has been assigned to the Flash three times this season (Nov. 10-30, Dec. 6-13, and Dec. 27-March 29), and per league rules will remain with the Jazz for the remainder of the season. He appeared in 37 games (25 starts) for the Flash, averaging 10.1 points, 7.7 rebounds and 1.92 blocks.

Idaho Stampede
Signed Dwuan Rice (5'11''-G, college: CSU Bakersfield) and waived Ernest Scott (6'7''-F-82, college: Valdosta St.). Rice is coming off of an ABA Championship with the Vermont Frost Heaves, where he was named MVP of the ABA Final 8 Championships after contributing 18 points, six assists, four rebounds and two steals in the final. Rice was originally selected by Idaho in the seventh round (#88 overall) of the 2007 D-League Draft, but signed with the ABA in December. Scott, a veteran of the US minor leagues out of Valdosta State, appeared in 40 games (12 starts) for the Stampede, averaging 8 points, 3.5 rebounds and 1.1 assists while shooting 41.2 percent from the field.

Ft. Wayne
Re-acquired Rob Griffin (6'6''-F/G-78, agency: Naiditch Entertainment, college: Iowa) and waived Corey Minnifield (6'8''-F-81, agency: Naiditch Entertainment, college: Loyola (LA)) due to injury. Griffin, a University of Iowa alumnus, rejoins Ft. Wayne after being released earlier in March. Minnifield had been continuing his string of strong play, coming off of successful CBA and USBL seasons, the ex-Loyola big man averaged 16.7 points, 5.8 rebounds and shot 46.2 from the field in 41 games for Ft. Wayne. Minnifield's most impressive run came in February, where he scored more than 20 points in five of Ft. Wayne's 10 games that month.

Standings
D-League Standings
Central Division
1. Sioux Falls S. 27-20
2. Dakota W. 26-20
3. Iowa E. 19-26
4. Ft.Wayne MA 16-29
Southwest Division
1. Austin T. 29-16
2. Tulsa 66ers 25-20
3. Colorado 14ers 24-21
4. Albuquerque T. 20-26
5. Rio Grande VV 20-29
West Division
1. Idaho S. 31-13
2. LA D-Fenders 31-14
3. Utah 21-24
4. Anaheim A. 20-26
5. Bakersfield J. 10-35


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DOMINICAN REPUBLIC

BAEZ is Week 27 MVP -by Ozell Wells
Eulis Baez (201-F-82, college: W.Illinois) (Akasvayu Vic) was the MVP in the 27th round in the Adecco LEB Silver with 41 of efficiency. He scored 23 points and grabbed 15 rebounds in a great win game of Akasvayu Vic at home of Axarquia, the leader in the Adecco LEB Silver. Kelvin Pena (193-G-81, college: Southeastern CC) finished 3rd in this weeks efficiency ratings after he notched a 33 after scoring 26 points and dishing out 4 assists in Caceres victory 100-78 over Cornella.

Week 27: TOP 5 By Efficiency LEB Silver

Eulis Baez (201-F-82) (Akasvayu Vic): 41 (23pt + 15rb)

Marc Sola (185-G-85) (Sabadell): 33 (23pt + 8rb + 6as)

Kelvin Pena (193-G-81) (Caceres): 33 (26pt + 4as)

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EUROLEAGUE

Quarterfinals. The start of the surprises? -by Eurobasket News
First games of the best-of-three Euroleague Basketball Quarterfinal Playoffs series brought three home wins. Olympiacos stole the victory from Moscow team and made the biggest surprise of the Day. Gree side grabbed the victory from CSKA Moscow 74:76. Lynn Greer (186-G-79, college: Temple) became the game hero by sinking the game-winning jumper at the buzzer. Qyntel Woods (204-F/G-81, college: N.Mississippi JC) paced the winners with 20 points, while Lynn Greer added 19. Matjaz Smodis (205-F-79) had 21 points for CSKA who was the favorite number one before the game with the Greek side.
Maccabi Elite beat Barcelona 81:75 in Tel Aviv. The Israeli champs had 36:29 by halftime but then Barca tied the score at 57:57. Anyway Game 1 belonged to the hosts who won the encounter. Esteban Batista (208-F/C-83) paced all the winners with 15 points. Terrence Morris ended up with 14 points and 10 rebounds, and Vujcic had 12. Ilyasova finished with a career-high 21 points and 9 rebounds for the visitors.
Italian Montepaschi Siena overcame Fenerbahce Ulker 73:66 at home. Lithuanian Ksistof Lavrinovic led the winners with 16 points. Bootsy Thronton added 14 and Terrell McIntyre had 12. Tarence Kinsey (200-G-84, college: S.Carolina) and Semih Erden (211-C-87) each had 12 points for Fenerbahce.
Spanish Tau edged Partizan 74:66 to lead the series. The game that was finished last among the others brought the win for the hosts. A 20:12 in the third quarter was decisive in the game after which Tau dominated in the court. Mario Plannic led the winners with 18 points and Igor Rakocevic (191-G-78) added 15. Dusan Kecman (197-G/F-77, agency: Beo Basket) top-scored for the guests with 13 points.

Many chances to have a Greek team in Madrid!! -by Chris Mammides
Olympiacos provided one of the biggest road wins in Euroleague Quarterfinal Playoffs history by downing the all mighty power house CSKA Moscow 74-76 in their in between first game in this best of three series. CSKA Moscow the most expensive team in the history if Euroleague with a budget more than 30 million euros is very close to watch the Final four in Madrid from a distance. Lynn Greer (186-G-79, college: Temple) became the game hero by sinking the game-winning jumper at the buzzer. Olympiacos now has the home-court advantage in the series and will advance to the Final Four if it downs CSKA again in Athens on Thursday. Meanwhile, CSKA is in a do-or-die situation and needs to get consecutive wins to reach its sixth consecutive Final Four. Qyntel Woods paced the winners with 20 points on 4-for-4 three-point shooting, 4 rebounds and 2 steals, the American guard, Lynn Greer added 19 points 2 rebounds and 6 assists in one of his best games with the red jersey of Olympiakos, Panagiotis Vasilopoulos added 14 points, 2 rebounds and a lot of passion and dirty job while Roderick Blakney (181-G-76, college: S.Carolina St.) added 10 very crucial points for Olympiacos, which won its fifth straight game. Matjaz Smodis had 21 points for the Russians, who had the longest active Euroleague home winning streak - 27 games - snapped. David Andersen added 15, Ramunas Siskauskas (197-G-78) 12 and Trajan Langdon 10 for the hosts. A quick transition game and an unstoppable Vasilopoulos allowed Olympiacos to take a 20-24 edge after 10 minutes. Woods took over from that moment and got some help from Greer to make it a 14-point game, 46-60, late in the third quarter. Three-pointers by Andersen, Smodis and Langdon got CSKA within 67-72 with less than three minutes to go. Smodis tied the game with 15 seconds to go but, Greer became the man of the game with the winning jumper. It is worth mentioned the fact that the Greek players of CSKA, Papaloukas and Zisis were in not so good day as they scored 6 and 7 points respectively not being able to help their team against the Hellenic team of Panagiotis Giannakis.

Quarterfinals: TAU vs Partizan 1-0 -by Dragan Jankovski
Spanish TAU Ceramica beat Partizan Igokea 74-66 in the first game of Euroleague quarterfinals and took lead in series 1-0. TAU is now a step closer to its fourth consecutive trip to the Final 4. It was not an easy win for the team from Vitoria. Both teams played not so good in the first half, with a lot of missed shots, which Partizan exploited in the second period. Milenko Tepic made jumper after pick and roll setting the score on 31-33 after 20 minutes. TAU started the third quarter much better making 7-0 run for immediate time-out of Partizan's head coach Dusko Vujosevic. Later, in 33rd minute Planinic hit 3-pointer for 63-54 but very good Kecman revenged with successful 3-pointer on the other side. TAU succeeded to make the biggest advantage at the middle of the last quarter which was plus 10. After that Partizan came closer two times on minus 6 but it was their maximum last night.

Zoran Planinic (198-G-82) led the winners scoring 18 points while Igor Rakocevic (191-G-78) netted 15. Partizan's centers stopped Tiago Splitter (211-C/F-85, agency: Interperformances) on just 8 points. Reining Serbian and Adriatic league champion got 13 points and 5 rebounds from Dusan Kecman (197-G/F-77, agency: Beo Basket), who is playing in a life shape this season. The best European center Nikola Pekovic (210-C-86, agency: Beo Basket) collected 12 points and 5 rebounds while Novica Velickovic (205-F-86) had 10 points and 8 rebounds.

Like it was expected Partizan was better under the basket having 5 rebounds more than TAU but it wasn't enough for the win.

Next game will be played on Thursday in Belgrade's arena Pionir where Partizan will try to remains in battle for the Final 4. Black and whites showed they can beat every team this season so it won't be a surprise if quarterfinal series finish in Vitoria.


TAU Ceramica - Partizan Igokea 74-66
(18-16,18-22,20-12,18-16)

TAU: Planinic 18, Rakocevic 15, McDonald 8 (6 rebs), Splitter 8
Partizan: Kecman 13 (5 rebs), Pekovic 12 (5 rebs), Velickovic 10 (8 rebs), Palacio 10 (5 rebs, 4 as)

*****************************************************
EUROPEAN CHAMPIONSHIPS

Giannakis will remain as the coach of the Greek National Team this summer -by Kostas Papadopoulos
Panagiotis Giannakis will continue to lead the Greek national team as the country's basketball federation president emeritus and FIBA Europe president George Vassilakopoulos has confirmed last Sunday.
Uncertainty over the coaching post arose when Panagiotis Giannakis , who led the Greek national team to the gold medal at Eurobasket 2005 at Belgrade and silver at the 2006 FIBA World Championship at Japan, accepted the offer to replace Pini Gershon at Olympiakos' bench at the beginning of February.
Many of his national team players are at the roster of Panathinaikos, the arch rivals of Olympiakos and some wondered if the situation would add tension to the national team set-up.
However, Vassilakopoulos has said both in remarks published by the Greek Sunday paper PROTO THEMA and at the Greek national television that: 'there has never been a question on whether we have a coach for the national team or not; the fuss about it was created when Panagiotis Giannakis took over at Olympiakos; our national team has a coach and that is Panagiotis Giannakis . Our agreement is a gentlemen's agreement and is still valid.'
Panagiotis Giannakis will now be in charge when Greece host the FIBA Olympic Qualifying Tournament on July (14-20), where three places are up for grabs for the Beijing Games.
None of this has ever been an issue for Panagiotis Giannakis , who at his unveiling as Olympiakos' coach back in February had stated that: 'we all love the national team and the proof is on the court. The national team is a big part of my career and remains the highest point for anybody that loves basketball. We will all help in order the team to be even stronger and I will do it every time I am asked to. The national team is my family and we will discuss (at the right time) what is going to happen.'
Panagiotis Giannakis has done a fine job at the leader point of Olympiakos' bench, keeping the Reds just a win away of Panathinaikos at the league title race. And the rivalry gets even bigger counting on that Panathinaikos won Olympiakos last week at the Greek Cup final while in Europe, Olympiakos has already advanced to the Top-8 of the Euroleague, playing against CSKA tonight.

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

KORISLIIGA: Pasi Riihela The Player of March -by Rauno Hurmalainen
Pasi Riihela (199-F-75) (YMCA Lappeenranta) has been named The Player of March. Riihela was averaging 23,3 ppg and 9,8 rpg, while his Team YMCA LPR was 4-0
in March. The following Players have earned same kind of nomination during the regular season: October - Jukka Matinen (203-F-78) (Honka), November - Timo Heinonen (198-F-81) (Torpan Pojat, Helsinki), December - Damon Williams (199-F-73, college: Colorado St.-Pueblo) (Pyrinto, Tampere), January and February - Corey Smith (196-G/F, agency: Warren Sports, college: Vanderbilt) (Kouvot, Kouvola).

KORISLIIGA: Transfer news -by Rauno Hurmalainen
Some new contracts have been signed for next (2008-09) season. KTP (Kotka) and American F Steve Smith (200-F-81, agency: CAA Sports, college: Iona) have agreed and re-signed the contract for coming season. Ville Vesala (188-G-83) will leave Joensuu and move back to Lahti. Vesala has signed the contract for seasons 2008-10. Last season Vesala averaged on Kataja roster 8,6 ppg - 4,3 rpg in 30:00 mpg. Mikko Jalonen (186-G-82) will return from Turku back to FoKoPo (Forssa).
Jalonen averaged 20,1 ppg, 6,6 rpg and 2,3 spg in YMCA Turku (I-div). Jalonen was twice The Player of the Year in the 1.-division.Teemu Heiskanen (188-G-84)
has re-signed with FoKoPo. This season Heiskanen averaged 13,2 ppg.

KORISLIIGA: Honka and Kouvot ready for the semi-finals -by Rauno Hurmalainen

Korisliiga, Play-Off-games, Game(s) 3: Kouvot (Kouvola) crushed again Korihait (Uusikaupunki), when defeating the visitor by 33 pts 87-54.
Corey Smith (196-G/F, agency: Warren Sports, college: Vanderbilt) led Kouvot in points (22). Korihait had only Darius Glover (196-G/F) in double figures. Kouvot - Korihait 3-0. Honka (Espoo) beat YMCA Lahti by eight pts and is ready for the semi-finals. Akeem Scott (186-G-83, college: High Point) scored 29 pts for Honka. Honka - YMCA Lahti 3-0. YMCA Lappeenranta lost yesterday in Tampere a close game and had to work hard to win over Pyrinto (Tampere) tonight 80-75. The Player of March Pasi Riihela (199-F-75) had tonight 24 pts/14 rbs. Damon Williams (199-F-73, college: Colorado St.-Pueblo) led Pyrinto with 32 pts/17 rbs. YMCA LPR - Pyrinto 2-1. In Helsinki Torpan Pojat and Tarmo (Porvoo) made the contest a thriller after all. Tarmo won finally in Kisahalli: 99-100. Mark McCarroll (208-F/C-80, agency: CAA Sports, college: Pittsburgh) led Tarmo with 26 pts and 11 rbs. Torpan Pojat had all five starters in double figures. Tyson Patterson (175-G-78, college: Appalachian St.) led ToPo with 26 pts. Torpan Pojat - Tarmo 2-1. Next games on Thursday, March 3.

Kouvot - Korihait 87-54 (50-36) (Corey Smith 22, Tuomas Iisalo 15, Wayne Bernard 15 - Darius Glover 18/11, Niilo Lehtila 9).

Honka - YMCA Lahti 81-73 (44-37) (Akeem Scott 29, Ben Perkins 16, Petteri Koponen 13).

YMCA Lappeenranta - Pyrinto 80-75 (40-43) (Pasi Riihela 24/14, Ivan Harris 17, Adrian Henning 15/10 - Damon Williams 32/17, Joni Harjula 16, M.C.Mazique 15).

Torpan Pojat - Tarmo 99-100 (39-53) (Tyson Patterson 26, Josh Gonner 20, Elias Kajander 17 - Mark McCarroll 26/11, Mikael Holme 25, Esa Maki-Tulokas 17/10).




*****************************************************
FYR MACEDONIA

Coach changes in the First League -by Todor Chalovski
Strumica 2005 changed their coach after the game against Karpos Sokoli 2000. They swapped Jordancho Davitkov with the Serbian coach Miodrag Kadija, who previously coached Lovcen, Buducnost, Atlas and Igokea Partizan.
Kadija is the third Strumica 2005 coach since the start of this season. They started with the Macedonian NT coach Jovica Arsic, who left in November, and he was replaced by Davitkov.

Previously, Swisslion Pelister parted ways with Miodrag Perisic. His assistant Blagoja Pecalov will coach the Bitola based team until the end of this season.

Feni Industri nailed in Ohrid -by Todor Chalovski
Amak SP beat league leaders and recent Cup winners Feni Industri 82:75 in a game in Round 29 in the Macedonian First league.
Goran Samardziev injured himself, while Gjurov, Gocevski, Mihajloski and Prekovic all went out with 5 fouls.
Former U 20 Macedonian NT member Vojdan Stojanovski scored 31 points for Amak SP.

Fersped Rabotnicki beat city rivals MZT FON Univerzitet Skopje 87:75. They made most of the game with 6 minutes remaining. Fersped Rabotnicki had a narrow 3 point lead at that point, but after the break, they changed to upper gear and gained the victory. Dimitar Mirakovski scored 26 points for the winners.

Swisslion Pelister beat Vardar Osiguruvanje 82:79 to stay in the game for placing high in the standings. Miljan Miljkovic scored 18, while Dejan Djokic added 16 for Swisslion Pelister.

Strumica 2005 had a convincing 103:62 win against Karpos Sokoli 2000. Both Dime Tasovski and Ivan Bosnjak scored 28 for the champions.

Torus tops the leaders -by Todor Chalovski
Torus moves up to second place in the Macedonian First 'B' league, after beating league leaders Pop Sport VSA 97:92 in a game from Round 3.
Igor Atanasovski was top scorer for Torus with 25 points.

Ovce Pole continued their winning streak, beating Negotino 84:62. Former U 18 NT member Vladimir Brckov scored 28 for the winners.

Goce Delchev are also on a good run at home, after topping Vardar Centar 85:71, thanks to 26 points from Daniel Kalov.

Heraklea beat Plejmejker Kubus 104:98 in the only game from Round 3 in the Second play out league. Former Swisslion Pelister player Goce Anakievski scored 37 points to help Heraklea gain their fifth win of the season.



Standings - Division II
D2 Standings
1. Pop Sport S. 16-7
2. Ovce Pole 15-7
3. Torus 15-8
4. Centar S. 14-7
5. Goce Delchev 13-10
6. Negotino 11-11
7. Teteks 10-12
8. Plejmejker C. 10-12
9. Kozuv 9-13
10. Heraklea 5-17
11. ABA 4-18


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

Giannakis will remain as the coach of the Greek National Team this summer -by Kostas Papadopoulos
Panagiotis Giannakis will continue to lead the Greek national team as the country's basketball federation president emeritus and FIBA Europe president George Vassilakopoulos has confirmed last Sunday.
Uncertainty over the coaching post arose when Panagiotis Giannakis , who led the Greek national team to the gold medal at Eurobasket 2005 at Belgrade and silver at the 2006 FIBA World Championship at Japan, accepted the offer to replace Pini Gershon at Olympiakos' bench at the beginning of February.
Many of his national team players are at the roster of Panathinaikos, the arch rivals of Olympiakos and some wondered if the situation would add tension to the national team set-up.
However, Vassilakopoulos has said both in remarks published by the Greek Sunday paper PROTO THEMA and at the Greek national television that: 'there has never been a question on whether we have a coach for the national team or not; the fuss about it was created when Panagiotis Giannakis took over at Olympiakos; our national team has a coach and that is Panagiotis Giannakis . Our agreement is a gentlemen's agreement and is still valid.'
Panagiotis Giannakis will now be in charge when Greece host the FIBA Olympic Qualifying Tournament on July (14-20), where three places are up for grabs for the Beijing Games.
None of this has ever been an issue for Panagiotis Giannakis , who at his unveiling as Olympiakos' coach back in February had stated that: 'we all love the national team and the proof is on the court. The national team is a big part of my career and remains the highest point for anybody that loves basketball. We will all help in order the team to be even stronger and I will do it every time I am asked to. The national team is my family and we will discuss (at the right time) what is going to happen.'
Panagiotis Giannakis has done a fine job at the leader point of Olympiakos' bench, keeping the Reds just a win away of Panathinaikos at the league title race. And the rivalry gets even bigger counting on that Panathinaikos won Olympiakos last week at the Greek Cup final while in Europe, Olympiakos has already advanced to the Top-8 of the Euroleague, playing against CSKA tonight.

Olympiakos beat CSKA in Moscow 74-76! -by Chris Mammides

For the Greek Basketball and the Greek basketball followers, the big road win of Olympiakos tonight wasn't such a big surprise as the 'renewed' team of Olympiakos has nothing to do compare to Gershon's Olympiakos two months ago.

Coach Panagiotis Giannakis is the Coach to break the unbeaten series of the Russian Super power CSKA Moscow after 27 consecutive victories in the Euroleague games.
Olympiakos beat earlier tonight the all mighty team of CSKA Moscow 74-76 and is now just a step away from representing the Hellenic Basketball in the Final Four of Madrid. The reds of Piraeus need simply to win the second game (on Thursday) in Athens and they will be the team to qualify in the Spanish Final Four.
The hero of the game was (once more) the American Lynn Greer (186-G-79, college: Temple) as he scored the last basket after Matjaz Smodis (205-F-79) equalized the score 74-74 13.5 seconds before the end of the game, the American super scorer, had the courage and the coolness to beat the Russian team and the really very bad management of the game from the men in Gray and gave the victory to the Greek team.

Coach Panagiotis Yiannakis proved allover the world that it's only fair for being considered as one of the best coaches in the world! The Greek Coach, dominated in all edges of the court, his Italian colleague and even though Mr. Lamonica (well known for being very hostile against all the Greek teams the last decade) tried to give as many calls, as possible to the home team, the passion of Vasilopoulos, the persistence of Greer and the scoring abilities of Qyntel Woods (204-F/G-81, college: N.Mississippi JC), couldn't overcome, not even from the men in gray. The quarters were: 20-24, 32-39, 52-62 and the final 74-76.

Top scorers for the Greek teams were:

Qyntel Woods 20, Greer 19 and Vassilopoulos 14 for Olympiakos, while from CSKA, top scorer was Matjaz Smodis with 21 and Andersen with 15.



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

Favorite teams Elite Sport and Sat Cybertec add wins at Liga Metro 2008 -by Victor Padilla
In a comfortable 114-76 win over Creaciones RL, Elite Sport added a second victory in their road to what may be a retake of the championship obtained last year for Torneo de Apertura. The top scorers for Elite Sport were Hector Vandeveire with 25 pts, Juan Jose Rosales 21 and Alejandro Carrillo 18, while for the losing side Jaime Hercules led his team with 16 points. On the other hand, Sat-Cybertec encountered a fierce resistance with Compusys in a game that was not defined until the last seconds with a spectacular 3-point shot made by Diego Berreondo (177-G-88) and an under-the-board shot made by Thomas Gillespie (204-F/C-74, college: Regis). The final score of 77 to 76 demonstrated that all teams in Liga Metro will fight every inch at the court during the present tournament. Top scorers for Sat-Cybertec were Diego Berreondo 18 and Victor Padilla 14, and for Compusys, veteran player Rudy Rosales led his team with 25 points.

Standings
Liga Metropolitana Standings
1. Elite Sport 2-0
2. Markvision 2-0
3. Leones de Marte 1-0
4. Lemans 1-0
5. SLT 1-1
6. USAC 0-0
7. Millonarios 0-1
8. URL 0-1
9. R L 0-1
10. Zencas 0-1
11. Estudiantes 0-1
12. Corpoevisa 0-1


Elite Sport wins again -by Gianni Pascucci
Elite Sport Pollo Rey won even its second game in Liga Metro Apertura, defeating Creaciones RL 114-76. Hector Vandeveire led Elite Sport with 25 points (18 of them from 3pointers), Juan Jose Rosales (181-G-82) added 21 pts and Alejandro Carrillo (191-F-88) 18. The main performers in Creaciones RL were Jaime Hercules with 16 points and Ronald Sandoval. In another game of last round, SLT Compusys defeated Estudiantes with 15 pts of difference.
with the help of Walter Corado

Guatemala is candidate to host the Final Four Round of Liga Centroamericana -by Victor Padilla
Fibaamericas (www.fibaamericas.com) has invited Liga Premier 2007 Champions, SAT-Cybertech, and the National Basketball Federation of Guatemala to host the Final Four Round of Liga Centroamericana de Clubes 2008, scheduled tentatively for the end of April. Although the Second Round of the classification phase is still under way, having Sat Cybertec at the top of Group B of the tournament has ignited the process to evaluate the feasibility of this event, which will include an International Satellite TV Broadcast under FIBA requirements for the six final games of the competition. -'It will be very interesting to organize this event in Guatemala, as our people would have the chance to see at home a high level of professional basketball, because the leading teams in the competition are including former NBA players in their rosters', meditated Mr. Everardo Berreondo, owner of SAT-Cybertech. Preliminary talks have concluded that Gimnasio Nacional Teodoro Palacios Flores, with a 5000 seats capacity, would be used as the main venue for the event, and discussions are under way with TV stations and sponsors to define key details for the project. 1st and 2nd places of the Final Four of Liga Centroamericana will capture two spots to participate in the Second Edition of Liga de las Americas, a tournament that is also organized by Fibaamericas and is scheduled for later this year.

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

IR lost at home to KR -by Siggi Hjorleifsson
Just as it was year ago. IR won KR at KR in first round and then lost at home. Now in overtime. Avi Fogel tight the game up on a lay-up 6 second before the end 73-73.
IR been leading the game most of the time 39-38 at halftime and 60-55 after three quarters. In overtime a big three pointer from Palmi Sigurgeirsson (190-G-78, agency: IceBasket) and another basket from Joshua Helm (198-F-82, agency: IceBasket, college: Mercyhurst) (198-F-82, agency: IceBasket, college: Mercyhurst) secure the win for KR 86-80. Serie is now 1-1. Final game at KR on thursday.
Nate Brown (183-G-80, agency: IceBasket, college: St.Peter's) had a great game for IR 25 pts & 10 assist. Tahirou Sani (205-F-85) 18. Sveinbjorn Claessen (191-G-86) 16. Hreggvidur Magnusson (198-F-82) 15.
For KR. Avi Fogel 23. Joshua Helm 15

Keflavik beat Thor.Skallagrimur beat Grindavik. -by Siggi Hjorleifsson
Keflavik made it to final four by beating Thor 86-83. Thor leading most of the game 50-37 at halftime and 71-67 after third period but when they lost their best player Cedric Isom (188-G-84, agency: IceBasket, college: E.Texas Baptist) out with 5 fouls it was hard to keep the lead. Luka Marolt (202-F-85, agency: Global Sports Plaza) did very well for Thor 25 pts 9/10 in shooting and 4/5 from the line. Cedric Isom 19.
For Keflavik Sigurdur Thorsteinsson (203-C-88) 20. Bobby Walker 18.

Skallagrimur are still in the play-offs after they beat Grindavik at home 96-91. Huge game from Milojica Zekovic Agency. Icebasket.(203-F/C-75) 36 pts. 15/21 in shooting from the field. Darrell Flake (193-F-80, agency: IceBasket, college: McKendree) 23 + 11. Petur Sigurdson 19.
For Grindavik Adame Darboe (190-G-86, agency: Rasmussen Services) 32. Jamaal Williams 18.

Snaefell to the quarter finals -by Siggi Hjorleifsson
Snaefell did not have difficulty in beating Njardvik 2-0 in the play-offs serie. This has not been good year for one of the top Clubs in Iceland Njardvik. No trophy. Snaefell on the other hand has already won Powerade Cup & Lysing Cup and have made it to final four in the league.
Final score in yesterday game Snaefell 80 Njardvik 66. Justin Shouse (180-G-81, agency: IceBasket, college: Mercyhurst) 21 pts. Slobodan Subasic (191-G-79) 14.
For Njardvik. Damon Bailey (197-F-80, agency: Icebasket. college: Missouri Western) 21

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

Sneed in Rishon, Nahariya changed coaches -by Yarone Arbel
Omar Sneed (203-F/C-76, college: Memphis) is back in Israel. The player who used to dominate the Israeli league signed until the end of the season in Rishon LeZion, his last stop in Israel before the move to Russia. Sneed spent the last months in Iran, and as a result the Israeli league had a difficulty to get Sneed's letter of clearance. Rishon got a special approval to register Sneed since the deadline was several days ago, but in the last eight games of the season Sneed will be there, trying to keep the team in the SuperLeague.

Coach Arriel Bet Halekhmi left Ironi Nahariya after the team suffered three losses in a row, including a home loss to the last team in the standings - Galil Elyon on Sunday night. Miki Gorka, his assistant, will take over his spot for now. Bet Halekhmi is the seventh coach to be fired this season in the 10 teams SuperLeague in Israel.

Round 19 first team -by Netanel Dahan
Round 19 MVP: Cory Carr (192-G-75, agency: Priority Sports, college: Texas Tech) of Ashkelon
Carr scored 17 points,took 7 rebounds,and grab 6 steals.

Terence Morris (206-F-79, college: Maryland) of Maccabi Tel Aviv
Morris scored 20 points and took 8 rebounds in 28 minutes.

Gil Mosinzon (200-F/G-78, agency: Gross Zeev ISA) of Galil
Gil scored 16 points and took 8 rebounds and won the game for Galil.

Meir Tapiro (194-G-75, agency: Avi Zilberman) of Bnei Hashron
Meir scored 16 points took 7 rebounds, and lead Bnei Hashron to amazing win.

Eric Campbell (199-F-76, agency: SportsTalent, college: Spring Hill) of Hapoel Holon
Campbell finish the game with Double Double 11 points and 12 rebounds, and lead Holon to the victory

*****************************************************
JAPAN

New JBL team Link Tochigi Brex names Kato head coach -by Kenny
According to an article in the Daily Yomiuri, the newest member of the JBL, the Link Tochigi Brex, has named high school coach Mitsuhiko Kato as their new head coach. The 45-year old Kato has been coaching at prep powerhouse Noshiro Kogyo (Noshiro Tech) for the past 21 years and has led them to 25 different national titles along the way. Noshiro Kogyo is famous for being the Oak Hill Academy of Japan and has produced legendary players like Makoto Hasegawa of Niigata Albirex and Yuta Tabuse, the first Japanese player to play in the NBA. There are rumors that Kato will try to lure Tabuse back to Japan to play for the Link Tochigi Brex, but whether he will be able to or not remains to be seen.

Standings - BJ League
BJ League Standings
1. Heat Devils 29-21
2. 89ers 28-12
3. Evessa 28-12
4. Five Arrows 27-13
5. Apache 23-17
6. Albirex 23-17
7. Broncos 20-20
8. Fukuoka 16-24
9. Golden Kings 10-30
10. Grouses 6-34


Stats Leaders - JBL Superleague
JBL Pro Superleague Stats Leaders
Points Per Game
Estill OSG 24.88
Williams HOK 24.69
O'Bannon TOY 24.17
Hawkins OSG 23.50
Klette PAN 20.97
Rebounds Per Game
Estill OSG 16.03
Custis PAN 12.49
Cornell HIT 12.06
Newton HOK 10.97
Smith TOS 10.71
Assists Per Game
Hawkins OSG 7.53
Campbell TOY 6.17
Custis PAN 4.60
Sakurai HOK 4.06
Kashiwakura MIT 4.03
Steals Per Game
Hawkins OSG 2.29
Honeycutt MIT 2.26
Kashiwagi AIS 2.21
Custis PAN 2.09
O'Bannon TOY 1.57


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

Pythons fall again -by Numennie Williams
Liberia Basketball Federation champion NPA Pythons has lost two straight matches in row in the big six in the first division of the national league. Pythons forfeited to sensational Flames on Friday March 28,2008 after the team refused to let one of her players Emmanuel Potter leave the court. The LBF action was due to alleged statement was to officials on the table during a match in the league. and on Sunday March 29, the champion fell to former champion LPRC Oilers 82-98 points in a match she led in two straight quarters. In the female division, champions K-Deltas crushed Survivors 57-47 points while Cestors Mogars fell to Dream Team II 49-56 Points in the second division. On Saturday March 30, Uhuru Kings whipped one time champion Mighty Barrolle 76-66 points and in the female division Rockers Angel Shooters fell to Commissioners 34-43 points.

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

Pioneros end Liga Centroamericana undefeated -by Gianni Pascucci
Pioneros de Quintana Roo-Cancun came back from Costa Rica undefeated, ending with a 8-0 record the regular season of Liga Centroamericana. The Mexican team will participate to the Final Four of this competition as the unanimous favourite for the title. The Liga Centroamericana Finals are scheduled for April 11 to 13 and could be hosted by Pioneros in Cancun or by the Guatemalan team SAT at Guatemala City.

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

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

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

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

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


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



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

Pioneros end Liga Centroamericana undefeated -by Gianni Pascucci
Pioneros de Quintana Roo-Cancun came back from Costa Rica undefeated, ending with a 8-0 record the regular season of Liga Centroamericana. The Mexican team will participate to the Final Four of this competition as the unanimous favourite for the title. The Liga Centroamericana Finals are scheduled for April 11 to 13 and could be hosted by Pioneros in Cancun or by the Guatemalan team SAT at Guatemala City.

Victor Avila Makes His Debut in Puerto Rico -by Justin Brink
Fresh off an his LNBP Championship run with the Halcones of Xalapa, versatile 5 man Victor Avila (209-C-77, college: Oklahoma) left Mexico to play for Atleticos de San German in Puerto Rico. Avila joined the team this past Friday and played in his first game yesterday, notching a double-double with 13 points and 10 boards in a 92-84 win over Mayaguez. Avila's arrival was delayed due to Xalapa's championship run (he was contracted in January) but the big man with a smooth shooting touch says he's happy to be joining 'one of the best in Puerto Rico' continuing that he hopes to 'win a title with them.' Atleticos claims the most titles, 14, out of all of Puerto Rico's first division teams and with this recent addition are surely eyeing a 15th. Comment on Avila's Puerto Rican experience here.

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

Amare Stoudemire and Steve Nash team up for 77 points to rout Denver -by Eurobasket News
It was a two-man show at the US Airways Center yesterday. The Phoenix Suns hosted a playoff-haunting Denver and rolled to an impressive 132:117 victory. Amare Stoudemire (6'10''-F-82) scored 41 points and grabbed 14 boards, while Steve Nash (6'3''-G-74, college: Santa Clara) dropped 36 points to ignite come-from-behind win for the Suns. It was the 50th win for Phoenix and they tied the LA Lakers atop the Pacific Division. The hosts battled out a 22-point first half deficit to fire from all guns in the fourth term. Amare Stoudemire notched 16 points in it and the Suns outscored the Nuggets 46:25 to post an outstanding win. Shaquille O'Neal (7'2''-C-72, college: LSU) had 20 points and 12 boards for the winners. The loss threw Denver out of the playoff zone a half-game behind Golden State. J.R. Smith (6'6''-G-85) scored 23 points for the Nuggets. Allen Iverson (6'1''-G-75, college: Georgetown) added 21, while Kenyon Martin (6'8''-F/C-77, college: Cincinnati) secured 19 points in defeat.
Meanwhile the Dallas Mavericks looked good enough for a 93:86 road win over the LA Clippers that put them into the sole 7th spot in the West. Josh Howard (6'6''-F-80, college: Wake Forest) came up with 12 fourth frame points and shifted the momentum to the visitors in this close battle at the Staples Center. Howard finished the encounter with 25 points, while Jason Terry (6'2''-G-77, college: Arizona) contributed 20 points and the Mavs survived in the 7th spot in the West for now. Al Thornton (6'8''-F-83, college: Florida St.) produced 26 points for the Clippers but they trailed for the major part of the action committing 23 turnovers and shooting 36% of field goals down the stretch. Jason Kidd (6'4''-G-73, college: California) finally put on a leading role scoring 27 points, making 4 assists and 4 steals. Corey Maggette (6'6''-G-79, college: Duke) had 23 points and 9 boards for the Clippers in defeat.
The Atlanta Hawks continued to strengthen their 8th spot in the East as they knocked down Memphis 116:99. The Hawks enjoyed a 38-point advantage in the third period but wasted the bigger part of it in a sloppy fourth period to still survive at the very end. Josh Smith (6'9''-F-85) netted 26 points, pulled down 8 boards and dished 6 assists for the winners. Al Horford (6'10''-F/C-86, college: Florida) and Joe Johnson (6'8''-F-81, college: Arkansas) dropped 19 points apiece. Rudy Gay (6'9''-F/G-86, college: Connecticut) answered with 29 points for the Grizzlies.

Standings
NBA Standings
Eastern Conference
Atlantic Div.
1. Boston C. 59-15
2. Toronto R. 38-36
3. Philadelphia 38-37
4. New Jersey N. 31-44
5. New York K. 20-54
Central Div.
1. Detroit P. 53-21
2. Cleveland C. 41-33
3. Indiana P. 31-43
4. Chicago B. 29-45
5. Milwaukee B. 25-48
Southeast Div.
1. Orlando M. 47-28
2. Washington W. 38-36
3. Atlanta H. 34-40
4. Charlotte B. 28-46
5. Miami H. 13-61
Western Conference
Northwest Div.
1. Utah J. 49-26
2. Denver N. 46-29
3. Portland T.B. 38-36
4. Minnesota T. 19-54
5. Seattle S. 17-57
Pacific Div.
1. Los Angeles L. 50-24
2. Phoenix S. 50-25
3. Golden St. 45-29
4. Sacramento K. 34-40
5. Los Angeles C. 22-52
Southwest Div.
1. San Antonio S. 52-23
2. N.Orleans H. 51-22
3. Houston R. 49-25
4. Dallas M. 46-28
5. Memphis G. 19-55


Denver hits back straight away -by Eurobasket News
The Denver Nuggets did not wait for too long to take a revenge for yesterday's loss to Phoenix. The teams moved to the Pepsi Center yesterday and the hosts rolled to a crucial 126:120 victory to leapfrog the Golden State Warriors back into playoff territory. The teams were close in the dying minutes but Denver capitalized on the visitors' misses. First Steve Nash missed a jumper and Carmelo Anthony (6'8''-F-84, college: Syracuse) grabbed a rebound and sank two free throws being fouled. Then Leandrinho Barbosa (6'3''-G-82) also missed a potentially tying three-pointer and Carmelo Anthony once again secured a defensive rebound to be put to the stripe later on and to convert two more free throws that put the hosts away for good. Allen Iverson (6'1''-G-75, college: Georgetown) scored 31 points to lead the Nuggets. Carmelo Anthony had 25 points and 8 boards for the winners. Leandrinho Barbosa secured 27 points for the Suns in defeat. Denver now appeared half-game ahead of the Warriors.
Golden State were tamed by the San Antonio Spurs 116:92 at the AT&T Center. It marked the 8th straight success for the Spurs while the Warriors fell out of the playoff picture. Tony Parker (6'0''-G-80) had 27 points, Tim Duncan (6'10''-F-76, college: Wake Forest) added 17 points and 12 boards and Emanuel Ginobili (6'6''-G-77, agency: Interperformances) delivered 16 points for the Spurs to coast past the dangerous Warriors. Baron Davis (6'2''-G-79, agency: Life Sports, college: UCLA) notched 19 points to pace Golden State as they trailed for almost the whole game. The Warriors now have all eyes on their vital clash with the Dallas Mavericks later tonight.
The San Antonio meanwhile could not go top in the West as the New Orleans Hornets narrowly beat Orlando to remain atop the conference ladder. Predrag Stojakovic came up with 6 points in the crunch time and the Hornets got away with a 99:98 win from the Amway Arena in Orlando. Chris Paul (6'0''-G-85, college: Wake Forest) posted 19 points and 12 assists, while Morris Peterson (6'7''-G/F-77, college: Michigan St.) had 19 points for the winners. Hidayet Turkoglu (6'9''-F-79) answered with 26 points, 7 assists and 5 boards for the Magic.

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NORWAY

Christensen+Storm=TRUE -by Kaare Vangen
Tromsø Storm have signed Dag Christensen for three more years. Christensen has been an important part of the Storm team for three seasons and is now ready for three more. He is a player most known for his defensive qualities. Christensen is an international player for Norway and has been captain on the Storm team that took third place in the regular season and went to the semi finals in the playoff. Coach Jeff Lange is reported to be very satisfied with the signing.

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NPBL

Standings
NPBL Standings


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PARAGUAY

National League Standings
National Standings
GroupA
1. America 0-0
2. Sol de Am. 0-0
3. Felix Perez 0-0
4. Gigantes 0-0
GroupB
1. Libertad 0-0
2. D.San Jose 0-0
3. Estrella del Este 0-0
4. Encarnacion 0-0


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PBL

Stats Leaders
PBL Stats Leaders
Points Per Game
1 Bell, Arkansas 23.4
2 Edwards, QCity 22.1
3 Thomas, Chicago 21.8
4 Anderson, QCity 18.9
5 Lumpkin, Jville 18.5
Rebounds Per Game
1 Williams, Reading 10.7
2 Gourhke, Chicago 9.5
3 Reeves, Rochester 8.9
4 Anderson, QCity 8.7
5 Greene, Jville 8.2
Steals Per Game
1 Lumpkin, Jville 2.4
2 Lawrence, Jville 2.4
3 Greene, Jville 2.2
Blocks Per Game
1 George, Rockford 1.9
2 Rollerson, Roch. 1.6
3 Bell, Rochester 1.4
2FGP
1 George, Rockford 57.2
2 Edwards, QCity 53.3
3 Bell, Arkansas 52.6
3FGP
1 Miles, Chicago 48.4
2 Anderson, QCity 47.7
3 Edwards, QCity 42.5
Ranking
1 Edwards, QCity 22.4
2 Anderson, QCity 22.3
3 Williams, Wilm. 20.4


USBasket.com All-PBL Awards 2008 -by Eurobasket
#s#
#e#6


Edwards


Anderson


Reaves


Bell


Williams
Player of the Year: Bobby Anderson (6'6''-G-79) of Quad City
Guard of the Year: Bobby Anderson (6'6''-G-79) of Quad City
Forward of the Year: James Reaves (6'8''-F-82) of Rochester
Center of the Year: Aaron Williams (6'8''-C/F-85) of Reading
Coach of the Year: Rod Baker of Rochester

1st Team
Ryan Edwards of Quad City
James Reaves of Rochester
Bobby Anderson of Quad City
Jeremy Bell (6'0''-G-83) of Arkansas
Aaron Williams (6'8''-C/F-85) of Reading

2nd Team
Marlin Johnson (6'4''-F-75) of Rochester
Anthony Lumpkin (6'1''-G-78) of Jacksonville
Charles Ward (6'7''-F-79) of Wilmington
Reggie George (6'10''-C-85) of Rockford
Tayron Thomas (6'3''-G) of Reading

Honorable Mention
Brian Greene (6'5''-G/F-84) of Jacksonville
Stanley Thomas (6'5''-F-80) of Chicago
Jermaine Williams (6'7''-G/F-79) of Wilmington
Jared Mills (6'6''-F-81) of Reading
Frank Richards (6'2''-G-82) of Rockford

Rumors about the ABA and the PBL -by Gianni Pascucci
(written together with Chris Munson)
Let's write a piece about the rumors involving the PBL and the ABA.... After all, the PBL was born from an ABA rib, you know...
Sources are saying Atlanta owner Quinton Townsend may be purchasing a part of the ABA. When asked about this at the ABA All-Star Game, Townsend denied the claim. Speaking of which, it is also rumored that CEO Joe Newman will be stepping down. Newman has asked for an undisclosed amount of cash spread out over six years in exchange for his retirement....
Merger talks between the CBA and PBL seem to be heating up. Multiple sources say a deal could be reached by May. One of the other pervasive rumors has stronger ABA teams such as Manchester, Vermont, Montreal and the former Halifax franchise being invited to join the new league.
ABA Vice President of Operations Brad Hester, and step-son of CEO Newman has resigned from his position with the league. Numerous sources have said Hester resigned in part because of the fact he has not been paid since August and well, he does have a family to support.
The Texas Tycoons were rumored to be leaving the ABA before the start of the playoffs, but that could not be confirmed. One source says it is due to issues with the ABA, another has said CEO Newman may be removing the Tycoons from the ABA. This is due to the fact that Tycoons head coach Jean-Paul Afif, assistant coach Mike Senters , and a large number of the Tycoons players have been playing for the PBL's Dallas Defenders, as Usbasket.com revealed some weeks ago. Are you ready to see all the Tycoons finally playing a PBL game with their original gold and green shirt ?
Just after the PBL Final game, PBL Co-Owner Severko Hrywnak stated to local media that, because of this season's success, teams in 22 cities submitted applications to play in the PBL next year. But he wants the leagues growth to be slow and methodical. Hrywnak says only 4 to 6 new teams will play in the 08-09 season. How all this can go along the rumors regarding a possible merger between the CBA and the PBL ?? And what about the interest in PBL showed by top ABA teams like Vermont, Manchester, and all the Canadian ones ? We remember that the same official PBL website tells about two 2008-09 expansion teams based (what a case !) in Toronto and Montreal ....

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POLAND

Interview with Markus Carr -by Jay
Markus Carr (186-G-79, college: Cal.St. Northridge) is currently base point guard in roster of newcomer polish DBE Gornik Walbrzych. Carr helped a lot to getting salvation in the league for Gornik and already played in 11 games of newcomer. During 20 mpg he averaged 6.8 ppg, 3.4 rpg, 3.9 apg and 0.7 spg.

Interview with Markus Carr

1) You are first season in Poland. How do you like Walbrzych?
- I wish I could have played the entire season here in Poland. I feel that this league is very good. The teams here are very serious about basketball. One of the things I like most about playing in Walbrzych are the fans. The fans really show a lot of emotion and support for our team which has helped us very much when we are on the court. Basketball is not just a business, but a way of life. I appreciate the management, the coach, my teammates and all the fans in this city.

2) What do you think about polish league?
- The Polish league is extremely competitive. Not only that, there are some players here whom I know pretty well. Donald Copeland, Pape Sow, Tezale Archie, Brandon Armstrong and other players which are great basketball players. I know these guys can all play which is why I know this league is good. I would like to get into a situation in which I play for one of the 'top teams' in this country so that I could really put my skills on display.

3) You played in other European teams (in Hungary and France). How to compare this game style to polish league?
- For me, each Country is unique with their style of play. Hungary was very physical basketball style and France was more of a mental basketball style. It's really hard to compare the leagues because basketball is the same all over the world. Yes of course, some leagues are stronger than others but a lot of that has something to do with the import players. Poland has more 'big name' players and more money than Hungary so I really like the competitive nature. France is known as one of the strongest leagues in all of Europe so naturally for me, it is a good league.

4) You was top passer in NCAA1 years ago. How you remembered this period?
- When I led the country in assist it was a goal of mines since I first entered my College. My Coach and teammates trusted in me to lead the team and that is what I did. That same season was like a Cinderella season in that my college was champions of our league and also the first time in history that we went to the NCAA tournament. I was able to run the team and be
like 'Magic' on the court. I get just as much satisfaction from getting assist as I do with scoring.

5) How you describe Gornik situation in the league at the moment and last results because your team just was risky close to dropping down the league but now going to play in pre-playoffs against with Ostrow?
- I think the situation couldn't get any better for this team at the moment. I can't really explain what happened since I was only here for the later part of the season but I understand that the goal was to stay in the top league. I know that the players put all their best on the games and in practices. It may seem risky to a lot of people that the team was close to dropping but I know that this team has the potential to do some good things in this play-off should we get past Ostrow. Ostrow has great players so we will have to be prepared when we meet. But I think we are ready and will let our leader JJ Montgomery provide the scoring while I do my best to lead us at the Point Guard position.

6) You mainly like to play on PG position or better for SG?
- I am a true Point Guard. It's the reason why I was able to lead the country in assist in college and just about every professional team that I have played for. Like I mentioned before, I get just as much satisfaction with getting assist as I do with scoring. I also feel that I can have major impact on the game from the SG position because I can score and make plays.

7) Your objectives for current season?
- My objective for this season was to come in and help as much as possible. It took me some time to get adjusted because I came so late to the team but I learned much about the style of basketball and what is expected of a PG. If I will return to the country next season, it will be known that I am here and my impact will be felt.

8) And for another year? Going to stay in Poland or move another country?
- I would like to stay in Poland but like most players I will go over my options. If I get an offer that I can't refuse then of course I have no problem staying in Poland.

9) What are you doing in free time after the season?
- After the season I plan to first of all train like never before. I want to be especially prepared for next season where ever I go. The second thing is my other passion which is business. I am currently working on a jewelry collection of my designs. Things are going pretty well with that and I expect to move into the business world completely after my basketball career is finished.!

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PUERTO RICO

Boricuas Abroad -by Alessandro Fontana
BORICUAS ABROAD
In Turkey, Besiktas won against Antalya 86-71, for 'The Wizard' Rick Apodaca 23 minutes with 9 points (2/4 2pts, 1/4 3pts, 2/2 FT)+2 rebs and 4 assts, Christian Dalmau played 21 minutes with 14 points (2/3 2pts, 3/4 3pts, 1/1 FT) and 6 assists.
In Poland, Turow was defeated by Kotwica 81-75 and Andres Rodriguez did not play, Polpharma was defeated by Slask 95-81, for Donald Copeland 19 points (3/5 2pts, 2/5 3pts, 7/10 FT) and 4 assts in 34 minutes. Copeland is one of the best scorers of the Polish League.
In Italy, Caserta won against Banco Sardegna Sassari 96-74, Guillermo Diaz played 25 minutes with 12 points (4/7 2pts, 0/2 3pts, 4/5 FT) and 1 reb.
In Germany, Paderborn was defeated by Giessen 90-82, Nathan Peavy played 24 minutes with 12 points (5/6 2pts, 2/3 FT) and 3 rebounds. In this season, Nathan Peavy is scoring 9.5 ppg and 3.7 rpg.
In Spain, Unicaja Malaga was defeated by Bilbao 79-67, for Daniel Santiago 7 minutes with only 2 points (0/1 2pts, 2/2 FT).
In NBA, Orlando was defeated by New Orleans Hornets 98-97, Carlos Arroyo played in the starting-five, for 'Our Boricua' 23 minutes with 0 points (0/3 2pts, 0/2 3pts) and 4 assists.
A. Fontana

BSN Boxscores and Marvin Stone -by Alessandro Fontana
Carolina won against Guayama 74-69, MVP of the game, Ebi Ere with 17 points, to mention also the game of Filiberto Rivera with 13 points and 7 assists.
Ponce won against Guaynabo 87-73, MVP Garnett Thompson with 23 points+12 rebs.
Bayamon won against Caguas with the duo 'Christopher Vega and Diego Guevara' (24 pts and 23 pts). To mention also the good debut of Shawn Redhage, the new american-australian player, ex-Arizona State. Last season He played in Australia with Perth with 22.5 ppg and 8.3 rpg. He obtained an Australian Passport and He would like to play for the Australian National Team.
RIP= Marvin Stone (ex-Bayamon in 2006 with 12.7 ppg) died during a game in Saudi Arabia with his team Al Ittihad. This was his first game in Saudi Arabia. Rest in peace Marvin.
BSN BOXSCORES
GUAYAMA-CAROLINA=69-74
G= Frejie 25, Beard 19, Perez 10, Parillon 6, Solano 4, Melendez 3, Herrera 2, Lopez 0, Oliver 0, Rivera 0
C= Ere 17, Carmona 13, Rivera 13 (7 asts), Reyes 10, Edwards 8, Hiraldo 6, Brown 4, Rosa 2, Villafane 1, Cruz 0
GUAYNABO-PONCE= 73-87
G= Ortiz 18, Wilson 15, Langhi 12 (11 reb), Lee 9, Escalera 9, Garcia 5, Lopez 3, Sanchez 2, Simon 0, Paniagua 0, Duran 0, Kortwright 0
P= Thompson 23 (12 rebs), Pagan 17, Martinez 16, Colon 10, Latimer 8, Aubry 5, Curbelo 5, Padilla 2, Lebron 1, Colon 0, Roman 0, Mendez 0
CAGUAS-BAYAMON= 82-93
C= Redhage 19, Ramos 18, Bryant 13, Melendez 10, Alamo 8, Rosas 8, Martinez 6, Casablanca 0, McSweeney 0, Ruiz 0
B= Vega 24, Guevara 23, Benson 18 (17 rebs), Ferguson 12, Lopez 9, Valenzuela 7, Anderson 0, Hinson 0, Colon 0, Valencia 0
A. Fontana

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RUSSIA

Can Lavrinovic family finally get some club hardware? -by Max Brodsky
Watching the Lithuanian Lavrinovic brothers can be a pure joy at times. Both are dominant big guys who can run the floor, play inside and even drain the long ball.

But that memorable mix has yet to translate to a European club title for either 28-year-old brother.

That may change this season as Ksystof Lavrinovic (210-C-79) has helped Italian club Montepaschi Siena to the quarter-final play-offs of the Euroleague, which tip off on Tuesday. And Unics Kazan has been a different team since the return from injury of Darjus Lavrinovic (212-C-79), who has guided the Russian club to the Final Eight of the ULEB Cup, which will be played out in Turin on April 10-13.

Siena face off against Fenerbahce with a berth at the Final Four in Madrid at stake. And Ksystof Lavrinovic will undoubtedly play a big part of the success, averaging 11.7 points, 4.1 rebounds and 1.2 blocks off the bench.

In Madrid, Siena would then play Barcelona or Maccabi Tel Aviv in the semi-finals.

In the ULEB Cup, Darjus Lavrinovic has collected 15.3 ppg, 8.6 rpg, 1.9 apg and 2.4 blpg, including a monster 21 points and 16 rebounds in Unics Kazan's Last 16 return leg win over Artland Dragons to reach the Final Eight.

Kazan will next face Spanish side Akasvayu Girona with a semi-final showdown against either Dynamo Moscow or PGE Turow Zgorzelec waiting.

Neither Lavrinovic brother has an easy road to the hardware. But it will be a welcome sight since the Lavrinovic family cupboard lacks any European club trophy.

Ksystof actually helped the Lithuanian national team to the 2003 European Championships crown, averaging 4.5 points, 2.5 rebounds and 1.5 blocks in Sweden. But Lithuania have failed to grab another international championship despite having both Lavrinovic brothers in the squad since the 2005 EuroBasket.

A European club championship, however, has also been lacking.

Ksystof reached the semi-finals of the FIBA Europe League in 2004, losing to Unics Kazan in the Final Four. Three years later, Ksystof had moved on to Unics and brought them to the 2007 ULEB Cup semi-finals before falling to eventual champions Real Madrid.

Darjus, who did help Zalgiris Kaunas to the 2005 Baltic League title, was also with Unics Kazan last season, but the Lavrinovic combination was not enough.

Now that the big man brothers are separated again, can 2008 be the year when the Lavrinovic family finally can cherish a European club title?

The answer will come soon.

CSKA CSKA CSKA . . . -by Max Brodsky
'First of all, I must congratulate Olympiacos for a well-deserved win. They had the lead for the best part of the game and controlled the tempo. We were never aggressive enough against them to win a game like this. We allowed them to score more than 70% of their two-pointers in the first half, and that is unacceptable. We need to step up in the next game if we want to continue our Euroleague season. We will try to do that in the next two days. We allowed 9-for-9 two-pointers in the first quarter and we lacked confidence. We found good balance in the fourth quarter.' said head coach of CSKA Moscow Ettore Messina .

'I had a great opportunity to take the last shot. Nikos Zisis (195-G-83) played very good defense, but I found the time to get the shot and score. It's a great feeling to decide a big game like that.' mentioned Euroleague TOP playmaker Lynn Greer (186-G-79, college: Temple).

Nikos Zisis said: 'It was a bad night for us, but we can beat Olympiacos away and be back for the third game. They played an excellent game, especially Greer, who is more than the 50 percent of their power. But also they had some big shots and they let us shoot from outside, but we didn't take advantage of this. I trust my team, because CSKA is a big team and has players with experience, personality and character.'

'I have to congratulate my players because they put a lot of effort in the last seven weeks to make it to the playoffs with a chance to reach the Final Four.' commented coach Panos Giannakis.

CSKA tragedy report -by Max Brodsky
Olympiacos provided one of the biggest surprises in Euroleague Quarterfinal Playoffs history by downing CSKA Moscow 74-76 in Game 1 of their best-of-three series on Tuesday. Lynn Greer (186-G-79, college: Temple) became the game hero by sinking the game-winning jumper at the buzzer. Olympiacos now has the home-court advantage in the series and will advance to the Final Four if it downs CSKA again in Athens on Thursday. Meanwhile, CSKA is in a do-or-die situation and needs to get consecutive wins to reach its sixth consecutive Final Four. Qyntel Woods paced the winners with 20 points on 4-for-4 three-point shooting, Lynn Greer added 19, Panos Vasilopoulos and 14 while Rod Blakney added 10 for Olympiacos, which won its fifth straight game. Matjaz Smodis (205-F-79) had 21 points for the Russian champs, who had the longest active Euroleague home winning streak - 27 games - snapped. David Andersen added 15, Ramunas Ramunas Siskauskas (197-G-78) 12 and Trajan Langdon 10 for the hosts. A quick transition game and an unstoppable Vasilopoulos allowed Olympiacos to take a 20-24 edge after 10 minutes. Woods took over from that moment and got some help from Lynn Greer to make it a 14-point game, 46-60, late in the third quarter. Three-pointers by Andersen, Smodis and Langdon got CSKA within 67-72 with less than three minutes to go. Smodis tied the game with 15 seconds to go but, Lynn Greer became the man of the game with the winning jumper.

Andersen needed just 16 seconds to score on a jump hook, but Jake Tsakalidis answered at the other end and Vasilopoulos added a power basket for a 2-4 Olympiacos lead. The Reds tried Tsakalidis on Smodis as a surprise matchup, but Andersen quickly drew consecutive fouls from Woods and sent him to the bench. Blakney and Ramunas Siskauskas traded triples as the score settled at 7-7. Vasilopoulos sank a baseline jumper, which Andersen erased with a jump hook. Lynn Greer made free throws and Vasilopoulos scored in penetration for a 9-13 lead. Smodis buried his trademark triple from the top of the key, but Vasilopoulos scored again to keep Olympiacos ahead. CSKA called timeout, but even after Lynn Greer shined with a floating layup. Langdon tried to get the hosts going and struck from downtown only to see Ioannis Bouroussis erase it with a three-point play for a 15-20 Olympiacos edge. Theodoros Theodoros Papaloukas (200-G-77) made free throws, but a Bouroussis dunk and Blakney driving layup kept the visitors in control. Viktor Khryapa (204-F/G-82) nailed a three-pointer from the right wing to get CSKA within 20-24 after 10 minutes.

Olympiacos continued trying to score in transitions to break CSKA's usual game plan in home games, but started missing open shots. Theodoros Papaloukas stole the ball and scored to get CSKA within 22-24. Lynn Greer rescued the Reds with a free throw and a three-pointer to give his team some breathing room at 22-28. Ramunas Siskauskas hit foul shots, but he didn't find much help around. Lynn Greer fed Bouroussis for an easy layup only to see Nikos Zisis (195-G-83) match with foul shots. Woods provided a highlight with an alley-oop layup, but CSKA kept getting to the line often. Smodis and Andersen hit 2 apiece to get within 30-32. Head coach Panagiotis Giannakis tried Woods on Theodoros Papaloukas, while Milos Teodosic (196-G-87) took over with a driving layup. CSKA struggled to score with Theodoros Papaloukas not being able to dominate due to Woods's outstanding one-on-one defense. Woods nailed a triple to make it a 7-point game. Theodoros Papaloukas scored in the low post, but Woods took revenge with a huge baseline dunk to give the Reds a 32-39 halftime edge.

CSKA improved its defense after the break and forced a 24-second violation on Olympiacos's first possession. CSKA went scoreless for two minutes, however, while free throws by Lynn Greer gave the guests a 32-41 lead. Ramunas Siskauskas made foul shots and Smodis added a driving layup to get the crowd involved at 36-41. Lynn Greer silenced it with a step-back three-pointer and Woods beat the buzzer with another shot from downtown to make CSKA call timeout at 36-47. Andersen tried to change things with a turnaround jumper only for Bouroussis to answer with an alley-oop dunk. Langdon sank a huge jumper and Smodis added a power layup, but Vasilopoulos and Woods struck from downtown to make it a 13-point game, 42-55. Woods took over with a huge alley-oop dunk that forced CSKA to stop the game again, 42-57. Langdon sank a long two-pointer and Smodis added a fast break dunk, but Blakney sank his second triple for a 46-60 Olympiacos lead. Lynn Greer hit an acrobatic layup, but Andersen and Smodis struck from downtown to get CSKA even closer, 52-62, after three quarters.

Just like in its Top 16 opener against Lottomatica Roma, CSKA needed to rally from a double-digit deficit in the fourth quarter. Olympiacos now tried a 2-3 zone, but Smodis beat it a driving layup. Woods collected a steal and flew downcourt for a high-flying dunk only to see Ramunas Siskauskas score again for a 56-64 CSKA deficit. The hosts powered the offensive boards now and Andersen sank a turnaround jumper in a two-chance CSKA offense. Nikos Zisis made free throws to get CSKA within 60-64 with six minutes remaining. Woods buried a three-pointer from the corner and Vasilopoulos soon copied him from downtown to restore a double-digit Olympiacos lead, 60-70. Lynn Greer made an off-balanced jumper, but free throws by Ramunas Siskauskas and a seven-meter bomb by Langdon brought CSKA back to life at 66-72. Smodis made a free throw, but Blakney sank a jumper to keep the Reds way ahead, 67-74. Nikos Zisis shined with a three-point play and Smodis made free throws to get CSKA back in the game, 72-74. Olympiacos struggled to score when it mattered most, but Nikos Zisis missed a go-ahead shot from downtown. Woods missed at the other end, but Smodis scored in the low post with 15 seconds to go. CSKA used a non-shooting foul, after which Olympiacos opted to isolate Lynn Greer, who faked and hit the game-winner at the buzzer, allowing Olympiacos to get the win in thrilling fashion!

CSKA CSKA CSKA . . . -by Max Brodsky


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SAUDI ARABIA

R.I.P Marvin Stone!!! -by Mohammed Malas

The american import of Ittihad Jeddah Marvin Stone (208-C-81, agency: ACMT, college: Louisville) has passed away today during his team's game against Ohod in Elite Cup Semi-Finals due to a heart attack!!!!!!, he collapsed at the locker room during the half time. ! The saudi arabian community was shocked after this accident!!!

Stone who was only 27 years old had just arrived before few days coming from Cyprus as he was playing there.....The player had also a big carrer during his participation top leagues in europe such as Greece, Cyprus, Spain and Germany.....on arrivalto Saudi Arabia, he was 100% mediaclly fit..


He was a great person and great attitude..all the players came to the hospital crying..and the federation postpond tomorrows game..


May God give the patience to Marvin's family and be with them and bless his sole.....R.I.P Marvin Stone



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SERBIA

Dragojlovic joined Swisslion too -by Nenad Ilijev
Serbian Superleague outfit Swisslion Takovo brings one more player to its roster. Former Red Star and Panionios Athens player Vladislav Dragojlovic (206-C-79, agency: Beo Basket) has signed contract till end of season with team from Vrsac. Experienced inside player helped Buducnost to make 15-11 record in Adriatic League this year averaging 10.4ppg and 4.2rpg. Two Swisslion's newcomers, Dragojlovic and Branko Jorovic (205-F-81, agency: Beo Basket) are expected to play in first round of Superleague vs.Borac Cacak.

Quarterfinals: TAU vs Partizan 1-0 -by Dragan Jankovski
Spanish TAU Ceramica beat Partizan Igokea 74-66 in the first game of Euroleague quarterfinals and took lead in series 1-0. TAU is now a step closer to its fourth consecutive trip to the Final 4. It was not an easy win for the team from Vitoria. Both teams played not so good in the first half, with a lot of missed shots, which Partizan exploited in the second period. Milenko Tepic made jumper after pick and roll setting the score on 31-33 after 20 minutes. TAU started the third quarter much better making 7-0 run for immediate time-out of Partizan's head coach Dusko Vujosevic. Later, in 33rd minute Planinic hit 3-pointer for 63-54 but very good Kecman revenged with successful 3-pointer on the other side. TAU succeeded to make the biggest advantage at the middle of the last quarter which was plus 10. After that Partizan came closer two times on minus 6 but it was their maximum last night.

Zoran Planinic (198-G-82) led the winners scoring 18 points while Igor Rakocevic (191-G-78) netted 15. Partizan's centers stopped Tiago Splitter (211-C/F-85, agency: Interperformances) on just 8 points. Reining Serbian and Adriatic league champion got 13 points and 5 rebounds from Dusan Kecman (197-G/F-77, agency: Beo Basket), who is playing in a life shape this season. The best European center Nikola Pekovic (210-C-86, agency: Beo Basket) collected 12 points and 5 rebounds while Novica Velickovic (205-F-86) had 10 points and 8 rebounds.

Like it was expected Partizan was better under the basket having 5 rebounds more than TAU but it wasn't enough for the win.

Next game will be played on Thursday in Belgrade's arena Pionir where Partizan will try to remains in battle for the Final 4. Black and whites showed they can beat every team this season so it won't be a surprise if quarterfinal series finish in Vitoria.


TAU Ceramica - Partizan Igokea 74-66
(18-16,18-22,20-12,18-16)

TAU: Planinic 18, Rakocevic 15, McDonald 8 (6 rebs), Splitter 8
Partizan: Kecman 13 (5 rebs), Pekovic 12 (5 rebs), Velickovic 10 (8 rebs), Palacio 10 (5 rebs, 4 as)

Play-off quarterfinals: Union Olimpija joins Partizan, Hemofarm, and Zadar in Final 4 -by Dragan Jankovski
Crvena Zvezda suffered a very inconvenient home defeat against Union Olmpija 74-96. Thus the team from Ljubljana is the last member of Adriatic League Final 4. Except for the first quarter, the team of head coach Aleksandar Dzikic dominated until the end of the game. The visitors had a much better percentage for FG2 and from behind the arc (11/21). Their maximum advantage during the game was plus 26, which happened in the last period. Jasmin Hukic (204-G/F-79, agency: Beo Basket) was the key player for the winners as he added 19 points, 5 assists and 4 steals. Goran Dragic (192-G-86, agency: Interperformances), who added 18 points and 5 assists, and Ronell Taylor (196-G-82, college: UAB), who scored 19 points, followed Hukic. Zvezda got 18 points from Vujadin Subotic (198-G-81, agency: Beo Basket) and 15 points and 6 assists from Omar Cook (186-G-82, college: St.John's).

Zvezda's head coach Stevan Karadzic after the game stated that his players are very tired because they played a lot of games during the last month. He also stated that their captain and best player Tadija Dragicevic has slight muscle injury and he has only played games during the last 20 days without any practice.

Head coach of Union Olimpija Aleksandar Dzikic was satisfied after the game, especially because his team showed they are able win important road games.


Crvena Zvezda - Union Olimpija 74-97
(17-19,21-29,14-23,22-26)

Crvena Zvezda: Subotic 18, Cook 15 (6 as), Lekic 10
Olimpija: Hukic 19 (5 as, 4 st), Taylor 19, Dragic 18 (5 as), Zupan 15

Miodrag Kadija in Strumica from FYROM -by Dragan Jankovski
BC Strumica from FYROM parted ways with Jordance Davitkov and agreed terms with a head coach Miodrag Kadija. Strumica's new coach has a lot of experience as he changed many teams in the past. Some of them are Lovcen Cetinje, Buducnost Podgorica, Atlas Belgrade, Sloga Kraljevo and Bosnian team Igokea from Aleksandrovac.

BC Strumica is currently on the second pace in FYROM Superleague with score 20-7.

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SLOVENIA

Standings - 1A
1A Standings
Places 1-8
1. Slovan 3-0
2. Helios 2-0
3. Krka 2-0
4. Olimpija 1-0
5. Luka Koper 0-1
6. TCG Mercator 0-2
7. Zlatorog 0-2
8. Elektra 0-3
Places 9-13
1. Alpos S. 10-16
2. Zagorje 9-17
3. Polzela 9-17
4. Kraski Zidar 7-19
5. Rogla 5-21


Standings - 1B
1B Standings
1. Bezigrad 21-3
2. Postojna 20-4
3. Nova Gorica 19-5
4. Hrastnik 18-6
5. Cerknica 14-10
6. Jance KK 12-12
7. Rudar 12-12
8. Rogaska 10-14
9. Litija 10-14
10. Konjice 9-15
11. Radenska 7-17
12. Triglav K. 7-17
13. Celjski KK 6-18
14. Medvode 3-21


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SOUTH KOREA

Samsung Advances To Final 4 KBL Championships -by Rick Ross

Samsung Thunders number 3 seed advance to play KCC 2nd seed
In the second round of the 2008 KBL Championships.
Leather Terrence (206-C-81, college: S.Florida) was instrumental in the best of 3 games series as he
Lead all scores with 34 pts and 17 rebs and ended the season for LG Sakers
Who finished in 6th place.

The Final Four match-Ups,
Best of 5 game series,

Top Seed and Regular Season Champion Dongbu Promy will host
4 seed KT&G - KCC Egis 2 seed will host 3 seed Samsung Thunders,

My Wife Kyoungok Ross ( Rj ) Ross Rick Jr. and
I will take this time to Thank The Wonderful Fans in Korea and Abroad
All the Teams, The KBL, It's Office Management and Staff , Basketball Operations,
Team Officials, Management and Most Importantly My Employer LG Sakers for the opportunity to be a part of their
Coaching Staff and another chance of being a part of the Korean Basketball League's
Tradition and Culture.

Good Luck Final Four - Dongbu Promy - Samsung Thunders - KCC Egis - KT&G Kites


Thank You LG Sakers KBL 2008 Coach Ross Rick ..........!



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SPAIN

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


Week 27: Eulis Baez MVP LEB Silver and Brett Beeson MVP LEB Bronze. -by Daniel Fernandez

Eulis Baez (201-F-82, college: W.Illinois) (Akasvayu Vic) was the MVP in the 27th round in the Adecco LEB Silver with 41 of efficiency. He scored 23 points and grabbed 15 rebounds in a great win game of Akasvayu Vic at home of Axarquia, the leader in the Adecco LEB Silver.
One more time, Brett Beeson (193-G-72, college: Minnesota St. Univ.) (Balneario de Archena) was the MVP in the Adecco LEB Bronze with 43 of efficiency. He scored 36 points and grabbed 7 rebounds to help the Archena team keep hold of the in second spot in LEB Bronze.

Week 27: TOP 5 By Efficiency LEB Silver

Eulis Baez (201-F-82) (Akasvayu Vic): 41 (23pt + 15rb)

Marc Sola (185-G-85) (Sabadell): 33 (23pt + 8rb + 6as)

Kelvin Pena (193-G-81) (Caceres): 33 (26pt + 4as)

Ville Kaunisto (205-F-82) (Qalat Cajasol): 26 (12pt + 8rb)

Reggie Moore (203-F-81) (CB Illescas): 26 (24pt + 7rb)

Week 27: TOP 5 by Eficiency LEB Bronze

Brett Beeson (193-G-72) (Archena): 43 (36pt + 7rb)

Pablo Aguilar (203-F-89) (Real Madrid B): 32 (24pt + 9rb)

Eloy Almazan (195-G/F-84) (Salsas Musa): 29 (19pt + 10rb)

Manel Nunez (190-G-81) (AB Esplugues): 26 (16pt + 7rb)

Pablo Sanchez (197-F-81) (Badajoz): 26 (16pt + 6rb)



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TURKEY

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


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U.S.VIRGIN ISLANDS

Elegar Named to College Insider Defensive All-America Team -by David Edole
Collegeinsider.com named Drexel senior Frank Elegar (206-C-86) as one of 16 member of its 2008 Defensive All-America Team. The center was named Second Team All-Colonial Athletic Association and was selected to the conference's All-Defensive Team. His 1.97 blocks per game ranked third best in the CAA during the regular season. The other two centers on the 2008 Defensive All-America Team are Hasheem Thabeet of UConn and Jarvis Varnado of Mississippi State.

The College Insider Defensive All-America Team is one team consisting of 16 players. Division I coaches and NBA scouts are part of the selection process, but final decision rests with the collegeinsider.com staff.

The 2008 College Insider Defensive All-America Team:
Stanley Burrell G 6-3 Sr. Xavier
Darren Collison G 6-1 Jr. UCLA
Joe Crawford G 6-5 Sr. Kentucky
Joey Dorsey F 6-9 Sr. Memphis
Marcus Dove F 6-9 Sr. Oklahoma State
Frank Elegar C 6-9 Sr. Drexel
Michael Flowers G 6-2 Sr. Wisconsin
Jeremiah Rivers G 6-4 So. Georgetown
Russell Robinson G 6-1 Sr. Kansas
Diamon Simpson F 6-7 Jr. St. Mary's
Garrett Temple G 6-6 Jr. LSU
Hasheem Thabeet C 7-3 So. Connecticut
Jarvis Varnado C 6-9 So. Mississippi State
Deron Washington F 6-7 Sr. Virginia Tech
Kyle Weaver G 6-6 Sr. Washington State
Russell Westbrook G 6-3 So. UCLA

2008 SUPER 12 -by David Edole
In my fifth year of writing about the better players in the tri-island territory, I have never been to a point where it has been this tough to signify a number one player. I hope my reasons for classifying each player are in the individual write ups.
I hope you enjoy it and remember the season is more than 7 months away so don't get so tight. This is just a projection……

12. Jonathan 'Jon-O' Fontanelle, 5-9, G, Class of 2012
Comment: Why doesn't he shoot? He has the proper form but his coaches prefer him to drive to the basket at all times. The soon to be freshman at an unknown High School is dangerous around the basket. Because of his upper body strength, Fontanelle finishes everything. Although he is only 5-foot-9, the lefty makes his living in the lane amongst the trees. He usually outplays players bigger than him.

11. Edwin 'Ti-Ti Bread' Ventura, 6-6, Educational Complex, Class of 2011
I an extremely high on Ventura, he is a good shot blocker and aggressive rebounder. Surprisingly he is an excellent ball handler for a big man. Sometimes he fancies himself a point guard. However, offensively the big man could use some work. He struggles to finish. He misses so many lay ups and his free throw shooting mechanics are non existent. Only in the 9th grade, I expect improvement over the course of his high school career.

10. Michael Venzen, 6-5, F/C, St. Peter & Paul, Class of 2010
Venzen had a 27 point game this season. But the same problem persists; he needs to work on his conditioning. The big man is a better football player than basketball player. Venzen is a demon defensive end on the football field.

09-B. Taaron Jones (-G-91), 5-9, G, Central, Class of 2010
The junior national team member received little game time this season but when he did manage to get time performed extremely well. He sat behind O'lani Vanterpool, and Rashaun Williams. Shooting the basketball is his strength. He loves the 3-ball and could finish well (left or right). He should have a monster senior year.

09-A. Irayn Williams (-G-91), G, 6-3, Central, Class of 2009
No player in the territory lost so much in so little time. Williams was forced to play power forward and center. Positions he is not comfortable playing for Central High. As a result his play this past season was uninspiring. His outside shot was non existent. His rebounding went for a walk, all because he was the second tallest player on the team.
Williams is a guard and nothing but a guard. He is not a post up center or a head up shot blocker. He is a creator!

08. Kyle Sylvester (-F-90), 6-2, F, Educational Complex, Class of 2009
The surprise of the junior national team! Sylverster had a double double of 17 points and 11 rebounds in a loss to Mexico in Centro Basket play. Sylvester has been improving game to game. He dribbles well and can pass the ball. His biggest attribute is the ability to shoot the ball. The big man has three point-range and has the ability to defend bigger players.

07. Osel Edney F, 6-4, Manor, Class of 2009
Edney will graduate high school at 16 years of age. He is a big and strong kid. He probably weighs 230. His rebounding numbers has improved from year to year. His offense consists of steady diet of putbacks. Edney could be coming to a prep school near you.

06. Charles Pemberton, F, 6-3, Charlotte Amalie, Class of 2010
AGGRESSIVE! This guy attacks the offensive and defensive glass like his life depends on it. Pemberton out rebounds and or outworks bigger players. His motor is always running. He needs to work on his offense but he will have some big rebounding games next season.

05. Aubrey Daniel (-G-91), G, 6-1, Eudora Kean, Class of 2011
Daniel is a verstatile guard. He was instrumental in returning Eudora Kean back to an elite status. He had several 20 point games and showed of his dunking ability. When he plays with a purpose he is one of the better players in the territory.

04. James 'Ne Ne' Sneed, G, 5-10, Educational Complex Class of 2010
James Sneed (-G-92) caught the bug. The love bug which cost him most of his regular season. When Sneed played he was awesome. In the St. Croix interscholastic championship game, he was held out for the first half. With Complex down 14 points to eventual champions Central High. Sneed nailed four three pointers to tie the game at 48 in the waning moments. Imagine if Sneed played the entire game. Some basketball enthusiast say Sneed only plays in games with big crowds. If that is so he will find it hard to advance to the next level. Sneed is also a great baseball talent.

03. Ryan Mills, G, 6-0, Charlotte Amalie, Class of 2010
The offense was geared around ALL VI First team standout Khalid Gerard, last season. Now, it is time for Mills. Mills led the Chicken Hawks to two tournament wins in three chances. He probably is the most versatile player in the territory. Mills is an excellent outside shooter and is a good decision maker. He is a good defender who can fill up a boxscore. However, his best sport may be football where he is the teams quarterback and safety. He led Charlotte Amalie to its second consecutive football crown.

02. Lamar Bough (-G-91), G, 6-0, Central, Class of 2009
The starting point guard for the Virgin Islands junior national team is the quickest thing in the territory. His spend and sheer quickness gives him the ability to get to the basket where he is a good finisher. He was named MVP of the Country Day Invitational after leading the Caribs to the championship. His speedy feet sometimes get him into trouble where he over penetrates and sometimes looks out of control. He needs to develop an outside shot if he wants to play at the next level but he is a great free throw shooter.

01. Charles Morehead, G/F, 6-3, St. Joseph's, Class of 2009
As most readers know, I am a big Charles Morehead supporter. I called him the best player from St. Joseph's since Cuthbert 'Cuffy' Victor . However, it has been another frustrating year for Morehead. His team finally won a game in three seasons behind his 23 points. No player in the territory has to go through what Charles goes through. He has to rebound, defend, score, bring up the ball, pass the ball and play all 32 minutes. If he was on a contending team, he would be the best player in the territory hands down. But the wear and tear of doing everything frustrates him.
He is still the most athletic player in the territory and his guard skills have only enhanced since being in his unique position. A jump shot away from being a mid major player.

2008 ALL VI HIGH SCHOOL HOOPS TEAM -by David Edole
2008 ALL VI HIGH SCHOOL HOOPS TEAM
First Team
F 6-1 Kyle Sylvester (-F-90), Jr., Educational Complex
G 6-1 Aubrey Daniel (-G-91), Fr., Eudora Kean
G 6-0 Ryan Mills, Soph., Charlotte Amalie
G 5-10 O'lani Vanterpool (-G-90)<, Sr., Central
G 5-9 Rashawn Williams, Sr., Central

Second Team
F 6-3 Charles Pemberton, Soph., Charlotte Amalie
G/F 6-3 Charles Morehead, Jr. St. Joseph's
G 5-10 Jefferson Faustino, Sr., Eudora Kean
G 6-0 Lamar Bough (-G-91), Jr. Central
G 5-10 Michail George, Charlotte Amalie

Third Team
C 6-6 Mike Komlanc, Sr., Country Day
F 5-10 Timothy Sneed, Jr., Educational Complex
F 6-5 Michael Venzen, Soph., Sts. Peter and Paul
G 5-10 Anwar Gregory, Sr., All Saints
G 5-10 James Sneed (-G-92), Soph., Educational Complex

Honorable mention: Merwin Potter (CAHS), Khery Rhymer (Central), Keith Wilkerson (Kean), Shaquille Bruno (Kean), Taaron Jones (-G-91) (Central), Irayn Williams (-G-91), (Central)

Individual Awards:
Tim Duncan Player of the Year Award: Ryan Mills, Charlotte Amalie
Raja Bell Defensive Player of the Year Award: Kyle Sylvester, Educational Complex
Holman Harley Lead Guard Award: Lamar Bough, Central
Fitzroy Brow Shot Blocking Award: Charles Morehead, St. Joseph's
Ronald Charles Rebounding Award: Charles Pemberton, Charlotte Amalie
Will 'Pewee' Petersen Shooting Award: O'lani Vanterpool, Central
Glen 'Kimble' Williams Scoring Award: Rashawn Williams. Central
Cuthbert Victor Most Versatile Player Award: Ryan Mills, Charlotte Amalie
Leon Trimmingham Sixth Man Award: Alston Creque, Charlotte Amalie
Danny Cornelius Coach of the Year Award: Pedrito Estrill, Charlotte Amalie
Milton M. Newton Territory Champs: Charlotte Amalie

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UKRAINE

AllStarDay roster changes -by Alexander Muzyka
- Artur Drozdov won't take part in the AllStarDay dunk cintest because of his knee problems as well as Manuchar Markoishvili. There will Anatoli Dubniuk show his art instead of Drozdov. Manu's substitute is still unknown, basket.com.ua informs.

- Oleksandr Berkhin won't play in AllStarDay for the South team because of injury. Stanislav Timofeienko is invited instead of his Dnipro partner, ukrbasket.net informs.

Remind, AllStarDay will take place in Donetsk at Apr. 4-5.

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VENEZUELA

Pablo Machado shines for Domo Oviedo in Spain -by Francisco Vega
Barquisimeto, Venezuela.- Venezuelan center Pablo Machado (207-C-77) continues to shine in Spain's EBA league as a player of the league leading team, Domo Residencial Oviedo (20-4), for whom he netted 17 points and grabbed 12 rebounds in 26 minutes of action during last weekend's victory against Marin Peixegalego (11-12), 98-63.

Machado scored eight of nine two-point shots attempted and his only free-throw of the match. Four of his 12 rebounds where in the offensive end and he also gave a couple of assists, blocked a couple of shots, stole a ball and lost another two.

Javier Rodriguez (201-F-81) scored 25 points to lead Oviedo, Jose Prieto (-85) added 15 and Albano Fernandez (-85) ended up with 13. For the loosing team, Alvar Vasquez scored 13 points and Bruno Pineiro (192-F/G-84) followed him with 10. Machado and his team are going to face Recinor San Rosendo (5-19) next week.

The player is still waiting to get paid completely by Guaros de Lara so he can begin firm negotiations to come back to the country and play LPB. A trade/loan had sent him to Gaiteros del Zulia for a year in exchange for Luis Julio (199-F-80), but the transaction was left with no effect last month. Machado had started this season in Spain's LEB Bronze playing for Estructuras Torrevieja, but the team folded due to a bad finantial situation.

Greg Echenique chooses Rutgers for 2009 -by Francisco Vega
Barquisimeto, Venezuela.- Venezuelan young center Gregory Echenique (208-C-90), a starter in Venezuela's U19 NT that will play the U19 FIBA Americas Tournament this year in Argentina, looking for a ticket to the 2009 World Cup in Bulgaria, has verbally comitted to play for Rutgers University, the Scarlet Knights, after he finishes high school duties at for Saint Benedict's Prep School in Newark, New Jersey, which is gonna be in 2009.

Echenique averaged 11.2 points, 9.2 rebounds and 3.3 blocks per match which made him 5th in the United States High School basketball rankings and had been followed by other universities such as Duke, Maryland, Villanova, Creighton, Notre Dame, Miami and Penn. He led Saint Benedict to a 24-1 record that put his team second in the nation's ranking.

A tall player who's only 17 years old and is already 2.05m tall, he's the son of former Venezuela's Senior NT player Jose Echenique, now retired. In fact, his parents were an important factor in his decision to choose Rutgers over other scholarship offers. He's projected as the future center of Venezuela's Senior NT and his name is in the surface as one of the top young players in the country alongside talents such as Maryland's Greivis Vasquez (196-G-87), Marquette's David Cubillan (183-G-87) or Colorado's Robert Palacios (187-G), among other young players.

Guillermo Narvarte: "We can't be glad by just winning" -by Francisco Vega

Caracas, Venezuela.- (LPB Press Deparment) Argentinian head coach Guillermo Narvarte has been a key to Trotamundos de Carabobo's best season start ever in their history as a franchise in Venezuela's Liga Profesional de Baloncesto. That's why he granted an interview to the league's press department in which he explained his philosophies when it comes to coaching pro basketball and how he's feeling in the country.

LPB: How do you feel about the team's good start?
GN: 'It's been very good. Even though we've had some dificulties, the team has understood the game philosophy I've tried to teach them. Nowadays, these are the results of the will and the good disposition of the players to try and do things as good as possible out there'

LPB: What's been the key for this season's start?
GN: 'I think one of the keys for the team to be where it stands is the fact that we have great defense. We pass the ball. And our team work is fundamental to win'

LPB: How do you foresee the development of the 'Blue Express' in the upcoming games?
GN: 'This is a long competition. We must continue to grow as a team and improve in every aspect of the game. There's no particular angle to this. We gotta work from defense to offense. We gotta keep the same work profile. What's coming up is gonna be a constant challenge for what's left in the regular season. We can't be glad by just winning, cause that would be mediocre'

LPB: What do you think of the LPB's level?
GN: 'It's high and competitive, that's why my team's gotta keep improving. Things are working out well for us so far, but there's also things that we gotta correct both as a team and individually. It's the fourth week of the tournament now and every team is going to make changes to get established and the level of the championship will continue to evolve till every team has reached their desired level'

LPB: How has it been so far in your first experience as a coach in this country?
GN: 'The LPB seduces me. It's dinamic. Everyone knows that working in Venezuela is a big step for foreigners. I feel comfortable in Valencia. Everyone has treated me very well and there's a big will for things to be done well here, players and general management included. There are players with high quality'

LPB: What's the strongest and the weakest aspect in Trotamundos game?
GN: 'Our main strenght is the fact that all the players are willing to work and are comitted for things to be done well. We all work for the same objectives. Our weakest point are the games, cause in each one of them we have to go through several different tests, but if every player is comitted, difficulties tend to solve themselves'

LPB: A few words for the fans of Trotamundos
GN: 'We thank you for supporting the team cause we're gonna give it everything we've got out there every single day'


Translation: Francisco Vega (Latinbasket.com Venezuela)



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




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Women News

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AUSTRIA - Women

Herzogenburg enters semifinal stage as the top rank -by Eurobasket News
Herzogenburg claimed an important win over their arch-rivals Flying Foxes to claim the top spot in the qualifying round. The teams clashed in the final round of the second stage of the championship. They headed into the battle tied at 13-2 record. But Herzogenburg proved a bit stronger in a defensively-minded encounter. Herzogenburg played at home court and got to a better start. They grabbed a 20:17 lead after the opening frame. Flying Foxes stayed close and trimmed the gap to a single point entering the final stanza. The teams headed entered the final seconds with the hosts up by 1 but Szoke completed the winning result for the home side with accurate free throws. DiAndrea Humpries (170-G-85) led the victors with 21 points. Maree Jones added 13 points for Herzogenburg. Yaneth Arias (188-F-82, agency: Next Level) dropped 27 points, while Esmary Vargas (191-C-81, agency: Next Level, college: Emporia St.) had 11 in defeat.
Wels finished the round at the third spot. They thumped Vienna 87 in the final game 97:35 to set up their semifinal clash with Flying Foxes. Everything was done in the first frame as Wels rolled to a 31:4 advantage. They coasted to an overall win afterwards. Dana-Ranae Jones stepped up with 27 points for Wels. Natalia Gavrilova (191-C-78) nailed 23 points in a win. Anna Kadensky (183-89) answered with 16 points for Vienna 87.

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


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BULGARIA - Women

Standings - Women
A1 Standings
1. Dunav 16-1
2. Lukoil 15-2
3. Rilski Sportist 8-9
4. Beroe 2007 8-9
5. Slavia 5-12
6. Montana 2003 5-12
7. NSA 0-12


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CROATIA - Women

Standings - Women
A1 Standings
1. Sibenik 5-0
2. Gospic 4-0
3. Pozega 3-0
4. Medvescak 3-3
5. Croatia 2006 2-1
6. Mursa 2-1
7. Ragusa 2-3
8. Agram 1-2
9. Montmontaza 1-2
10. Zadar 1-5
11. Studenec O. 1-5
12. Novi Zagreb 0-3


Jolly Sibenik wins Ruzica Meglaj Rimac Cup -by Eurobasket News
Sibenik - Gospic 78:66

Jolly Sibenik triumphed in the Ruzica Meglaj Rimac Cup. They defeated their key opponents in Croatia Gospic in the final game. Previously Jolly Sibenik overcame Ragusa 77:53 in the semis. Gospic beat Medvescak 73:63 in another semifinal battle. The win in the title decider marked the 6-game winning streak for Sibenik against Gospic in the season. It was also a revenge for the last season's loss to Gopsic in the Rimac Cup. Gospic kept it close in the first half and led 18:17. But soon Sibenik took control over the game and gradually piled up a 31:28 lead midway through the game. Sibenik continued to stretch the gap through the third period. Tihana Juric (194-C-76) nailed a buzzer-beating trey to make it 61:53 after 30 minutes of action. The hosts dominated the scene in the final period and sparked to a 9:0 rally to pull away for good. Sibenik accumulated a 76:59 gap that turned unassailable for Gospic. Anda Jelavic (173-G-80) dropped 24 points, grabbed 7 boards and dished out 7 assists. Luca Ivankovic (201-C-87) and Tihana Juric provided 12 points apiece for the winners. Sandra Popovic-Mandir (177-G-77) nailed 18 points to lead Gospic. Pinto netted 14 points, while Katarina Maloca (190-F/C-75) had 12 in a loss.

Sibenik: Anda Jelavic 24, Luca Ivankovic 12, Tihana Juric 12
Gospic: Sandra Popovic-Mandir 18, Pinto 14, Katarina Maloca 12

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FYR MACEDONIA - Women

Standings - Women
D1 Standings
1. Vigor Skopje 15-1
2. Mladines 12-4
3. Biljana 8-8
4. Pelister 8-8
5. V.Lisici 6-10
6. Kumanovo 5-11
7. Gostivar 0-12


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GUYANA - Women

Youngstown State Highlights Guyanese National - Nikita LaFleur in 2007-08 Junior Season -by Patrick Haynes

Nikita LaFleur (188-C-86) in 2007-08 Junior Season

Appeared in 26 games... Averaged 2.2 points and 3.3 rebounds per game... Scored four points and grabbed nine boards against Cleveland... Posted a season-high seven points against Green Bay …Grabbed eight rebounds and scored six points against Cleveland State... Scored four points with five boards against Detroit (1/19)... Tied a career high with 10 rebounds against Milwaukee... Grabbed six rebounds against St. Francis (Pa.)... Scored six points in just eight minutes against Long Island... Grabbed six rebounds against Albany.

Nikita made her international appearance last August representing Guyana at the 19th CBC Championships in Puerto Rico where she averaged 10.2 points, 9.6 rebounds, 0.8 assists, 2.2 steals, 0.6 blocks and 31 minutes in 5 games.

Courtesy of Patrick Haynes guyanabasketball.com



Guyanese National LaToya Chalmers signs with Harlem “Canadian” Ambassadors -by Patrick Haynes

To form the nucleus of the Harlem 'Canadian' Ambassadors, the team has signed Canadian/Guyanese player who is presently training and performing with one of the team's two touring units during the 2007-08 U.S. tour which tipped off on September 15, 2007 and includes over 200 performances. The Canadian tour will begin on April 3, 2008 in British Columbia and will tour west-to-east concluding in the Maritime Provinces.

LaToya Chalmers (185-F-84), from Toronto, Ontario and an NCAA Division 1 star at New York's Fordham University and current Guyanese National Forward, is currently training on the Ambassadors' 'Stars and Stripes' touring unit in preparation for the Canadian tour.

'We are thrilled with the quality of LaToya's game which will secure the nucleus of the Canadian Ambassadors team,' said President Dale Moss, adding that 'more importantly she is a quality pplayer who will represent our message that encourages youth to get a good education and avoid substances.'

Chalmers recently represented Guyana at the 19th CBC championships in Puerto Rico last August where she averaged 4.2 points, 3.8 rebounds, 3.2 steals, 3.4 assists 2 blocks and 34 minutes in 5 games




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HOLLAND - Women

Laki Lakner returns in Landsmeer -by Mannus Etten
Former coach of ProBuild Lions Laki Lakner will return to this club after one year absence.
Last year he left the team and coming season he will come back. His new contract will last for three years.

He will be responsible for the first women team but also the development of young talent.

Between 2005 and 2007 he won twice the final four, one time the Dutch cup and also one Dutch Championship.

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HUNGARY - Women

Uniqua NB1 - Round 21 -by Adam Patonay
Mizo Pecs 2010 - BEAC 96:30
Pecs: Somogyi A. 16/12, Tijana Krivacevic 21 (10 reb), Vajda A. 15 (12 reb), Podrug E. 14, Coelho G. 12
BEAC: Sule K. 9

Seat Foton Gyor - MKB Euroleasing Sopron 53:89
Gyor: Szakacs I. 14/9, Borecka I. 10/6
Sopron: Honti K. 10, Gorbunova O. 18/3, Barnzova A. 10, Dora Horti (195-C-87) 18 (9 reb)

BSE - Vasas Csata 93:53
BSE: Iglesias C. 17/6, Aties Z. 17, Furesz 10/6, Imbergerova D. 22/9, Vida A. 13/3
Csata: Czank T. 11, Izsak J. 13/9

Szolnoki NKK - Atomeomu Szekszard 77:62
Szolnok: Hegedus R. 12, Kozdron M. 19/9, Djelmis A. 19/9
Szekszard: Tamas R. 14/6, Varda D. 14/3 (10 reb), Balint R. 12/9, Maksimovic M. 12

Zala Volan ZTE - Cegledi EKK 69:60
Zala Volan: Milkova L. 16, Turoczi N. 14/3, Szelesy J. 11/6
Cegled: Williams T. 23 (13 reb), Coronado S. 18/15

Szeviep Szeged - Kanizsai Vadmacskak 109:61
Szeged: Torok Sz. 10 (6 ass), Tomova M. 23, Russai P. 18/6, Zherzherunova 13 (11 reb), Kovacs K. 11
Kanizsa: Robinson R. 20/3, Puric A. 15 (5 ass)

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ISRAEL - Women

Round 24th Results. -by Gil Goshen


Nobody thought the women's league playoffs would get off to a start quite like this one. Ramat Hasharon destroyed Ramla in a 99-65 win while Ramat Hen led through out in Hertzeliya and eventually got the win, 70 - 67. Games #2 are in a week from today.

Electra Ramat Hasharon 99 - Ramla 65

For Ramat Hasharon:
Jia Perkins 21 pts, 6 ast
Dada Vilipic 20 pts, 9 rebs
Tatyana Troina 15 pts
Nomi Kolodny 12 pts
Merav Dori, Limor Mizrachi & Monique Coker 9 pts each
Shimrit Gigi 3 pts
Shani Levi 1 pt

For Ramla:
Sherill Baker 20 pts
Shay Doron & Michelle Snow 14 pts each
Katia Abramzon 10 pts, 8 rebs
Laine Selwyn 6 pts
Brasheeda Elohim 1 pt

Raanana Hertzeliya 67 - Ramat Hen 70

Tight game and a tight win for Ramat Hen on the road vs. the #1 ranked team. After a good first half for Ramat Hen, the locals got back in the game in the 3rd and forced a close finish which featured many errors on both sides. Ramat Hen, who shot 20 for 36 from the line, somehow managed to hit enough free throws down the stretch and did the little things to go up 1-0 in the series.

Recap soon
For Ramat Hen:
Taj McWilliams Franklin 27 pts, 14 rebs
Armintie Price 15 pts
Edwina Brown 10 pts, 8 rebs, 5 ast
Shiri Sharon 10 pts, 9 rebs
Chen Shtain 8 pts

For Raanana Hertzeliya:
Tanisha Wright 23 pts, 13 rebs
Mistie Williams 16 pts
Abiola Wabara 9 pts
Neda Djuric 6 pts
Chen Nusel & Noa Ganor 5 pts each
Ornit Shwartz 3 pts





Jia Perkins (173-G-82, agency: Merit Sports, college: Texas Tech)

Standings (W)
D1 Standings
Upper Playoffs
1. Ramat H. 17-5
2. Ramat Chen. 16-6
3. Bnot Hash. 16-6
4. Ramat Hen 13-9
5. M.Ashdod 10-11
6. Elitzur Holon 8-13
Lower Playoffs
1. B.Yehuda 8-12
2. M.Tel Kabir 4-14
3. Hap.T-A 3-18


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KAZAKHSTAN - Women

Tigers are ready for a battle -by Eurobasket News
On April, 3 the main game among the teams from Kazakhstan will take place in Kustanai. It's supposed to be a decisive game between Astana Tigers and Okzhetpes Kokshetay-1 who are also the major candidates for the golden championship.Valeryan Koptelov, the Director of Astana Tigers was interviewed about the preparation of the capital club. He was asked whether the team could manage the last year success when the girls held the national champions title. He answered that the main task of the team was to win and make the fans happy, especially before the anniversary of Astana. But, of course, the whole thing will be determined on the play-ground. The only thing that he could share about the forthcoming game was that the teams would not meet halfway. As for the evaluation of the opponents, he considered them to be a well-balanced team. They couldn't be underestimated for their past victories for the last four seasons.
As for the final match, the preparation in Astana is done. On April, 2 the team takes off to Kustanai for the final preparation stage. Fortunately, there are no injured or disqualified members in the team.The Astana team overcame their opponents from Barsa-Atyrau in semi-final. During that match they were in a good position and ended up with a good point gap. And on the contrary, the Atyrau team lagged behind throughout the whole game. By the way, last season Astana got the first place by beating the strong Pavlodar team Irtysh - PNHZ.

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NCAA1 - Women

Tennessee and Connecticut complete Final Four picture -by Eurobasket News
Dislocated shoulder was not an obstacle for Candace Parker (6'4''-F/C-86). The Lady Vols' leader was forced off court with an injured shoulder and missed opening minutes of the second half but it did not prevent Texas A&M from falling to Tennessee. The Aggies looked concentrated and ready to fight early in the game. They grabbed the lead and kept ahead with Candace Parker struggling on and off court. Candace Parker missed starting 8 minutes of the second half and Texas A&M drove ahead to a 42:37 distance. But soon Parker reappeared on the court and fueled a comeback effort from the Lady Vols. She scored 4 points and Shannon Bobbitt (5'2''-G-85) added two more for Tennessee to surge ahead 43:42 with just under 4 minutes to play in regulation. Candace Parker later added two more free throws and then fed Alexis Hornbuckle (5'11''-G-85) for a long trey as the Lady Vols jumped into a 48:43 advantage with 48 seconds left. Hornbuckle, Bobbitt and Parker then were deadly from charity stripe to seal the winning outcome. It would the 6th Final Four birth for the Lady Vols in the last seven seasons. They are also looking for the second straight trophy. Candace Parker led Tennessee with 26 points in a 53:45 victory. Alexis Hornbuckle had 14 points for the winners. Takia Starks (5'8''-G-87) answered with 12 points for the Aggies. Aquonesia Franklin (5'3''-G-85) had 11 points in defeat.
Connecticut head to their 9th Final Four after holding off Rutgers 66:56 in the Greensboro Regional final. The Huskies denied a 15-point deficit to step in front late in the game following a go-ahead three-pointer from Maya Moore (6'0''-F-89). The Huskies' leader was held to only 7 points in the game but the shot was worth the money. Renee Montgomery (5'7''-G-86) and Ketia Swanier (5'7''-G-86) contributed 15 points apiece to pace the Huskies. Connecticut will now face Stanford in the semifinal. Matee Ajavon (5'8''-G-86) responded with 18 points for the Scarlet Knights. Essence Carson (6'0''-G/F-86) provided 12 points and 12 boards in a losing effort.

No mercy for top seeds -by Eurobasket News
The LSU Lady Lions made it to the fifth straight Final Four edging the top-ranked North Carolina yesterday. Sylvia Fowles (6'6''-C-85) produced 21 points, 12 boards and 5 blocks and the second-ranked LSU snapped the 16-game winning streak for the Tar Heels. LaToya Pringle (6'3''-F/C) scored 21 points and pulled down 11 boards to lead the Tar Heels. She launched 19 points after the break but could not spark her teammates as they struggled to fight back a 3-point halftime deficit. The defense was telling it all for the Lady Lions as they limited the Tar Heels to 50 points, while North Carolina would not score less than 71 throughout the whole season. Pringle was the only player to score in double figures for North Carolina. LSU held their opponents to 33% shooting from the field and forced them to 16 turnovers. Quianna Chaney (5'11''-G-86) added 13 points, while Erica White (5'3''-G-86) had 8 points and 8 boards for LSU. Rashanda McCants (6'1''-G/F) contributed 9 points and 9 boards for the Tar Heels as they failed to enter the third consecutive Final Four.
In the meantime another top seed Maryland was upset by Stanford 87:98 in the Spokane Regional final. Candice Wiggins (5'11''-G-87) came up with a sizzling performance of 41 points to pace the Cardinal into the Final Four. Stanford will now face the winner of Connecticut vs. Rutgers clash in the semifinal. JJ Jones was helpful with 23 points, while Kayla Pedersen provided 15 points, 7 assists and 6 boards for Stanford to prevail. The Cardinal built a 10-point lead into the second half and maintained it well after the break. Kristi Toliver (5'7''-G) notched career-high 35 points for the Terrapins. She matched Wiggins's effort well enough as they both scored 24 points in the second half. But it turned out that Wiggins had more backup yesterday. Toliver scored 9 points in a row to drag the Terrapins within 7 points with just over 6 minutes left in regulation. But Candice Wiggins answered with her own trey seconds later and the Cardinal pulled away for good.

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POLAND - Women

Interview with Brittany Jackson -by Wojciech Strzebinczyk

Beautiful blond american forward who came help in league salvation to Jelenia Gora is the best 3pt shotter in the league. We are talking about Brittany Jackson (180-F-83, college: Tennessee) whose in her 11 games played averaged 32 mpg and made total 33 for attempted 80 shots from 6.25m range. Jackson recorded also 12.6ppg, 3.7rpg, 1.3apg, 1.3spg. Lets interview Brittany!

Interview with Brittany Jackson

1) You are first season in Poland. How do you like Jelenia Gora?
- Yes, it is my first year in Poland and it has been a great experience. I have really enjoyed my time in Poland, especially in Jelenia Gora. Jelenia Gora is a very nice city and great location.

2) You are media person. Got a experiences in modeling and in Poland visiting TV's and often in newspapers with your great photos. How you do that?
- The media here in Poland have been very generous. It was very nice to get to go on one of the biggest tv shows in Poland. I was very honored. The people here have been very welcoming!

3) And about basketball :) What do you think about polish league?
- The Polish league is a very competitive league. There are some great players playing in this league. I knew that coming in and it was definitely one of the reasons I choose to come to Poland.

4) You just playing first professional season and after graduated NCAA top school Tennessee played shortly in Turkey. How to compare this game styles and experiences?
- Yes I played in Turkey as well and I think the style of basketball overseas is a little different than in the States. I would definitely say that it is different than playing at Tennessee. As a professional athlete now you have much more responsibilities.

5) How you describe Finepharm situation in the league at the moment and last results?
- We have been struggling a little lately in the league. I think its just been a little tough because we got here late and we are trying to make up for the beginning of the season. But we are going to be fine, we are fighting back strong.

6) Objectives for current season?
- My objectives right now are to finish this season strong with Finepharm and go home this summer and have a great season in the WNBA. I am very excited about signing with Atlanta Dream and look forward to playing this summer!

7) And for another year? Going to stay in Poland or move another country?
- I would love to stay in Poland. Poland has been a great experience for me.

8) What are you doing in free time after the season?
- Well I definitely will not have much free time after I finish up here. I will get to go home for a few days and see my family before I have to be in camp on April 20th.



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SLOVENIA - Women

The second stage of A1 League starts in Slovenia -by Eurobasket News
Six teams qualified for the upper playoffs in Slovenian A1 league. Celje finished the regular season undefeated and easily secured their place in the top sestet. Celje also got to a winning start of the second stage of the championship. They faced Jezica away from home in the opening round and rolled to a confident 97:68 win. The visitors built a 44:28 advantage at halftime and rushed towards a cruising win at the end. Lucie Conkova (186-F-83) nailed 26 points to lead Celje. Kristina Verbole (193-F/C-88) and Milijana Evtoukhovitch (190-C-81) added 17 points apiece for the winners.
Maribor handled Neso Ihke 88:67 at home to gain their first win. The game was pretty even but the hosts outscored their opponents 20:9 in the second period and it proved enough for Maribor to pull away an important victory. Alma Pehadzic (173-G-82) provided 24 points and 6 boards for Maribor. Andreja Tisler (178-G-85) had 21 points and 6 boards for the winners. Jonetta Brown (194-C-82, college: Cameron) paced Neso Ihke with 20 points and game-high 14 boards.
The second-ranked HIT Kr. Gora outpaced Odeja 78:59. The home side accumulated an unassailable 42:22 advantage at the interval and coasted to an overall win after the long break.
The next round is scheduled for Wednesday. Celje will host Odeja, while Neso Ihke will take on HIT Kr. Gora at home.

Standings - Women
1A Standings
Places 1-6
1. Celje 1-0
2. AJM Maribor 1-0
3. Hit Kr.Gora 1-0
4. Odeja 0-1
5. Jezica 0-1
6. Neso Ihke 0-1
Places 7-12
1. NT U16 1-0
2. Konjice 1-0
3. Triglav 1-0
4. City Center 0-1
5. Domzale 0-1
6. Crnomelj 0-1


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U.S.VIRGIN ISLANDS - Women

Akeema Richards named to the First team all Baltimore -by David Edole
Akeema Richards of Western HS was named to the First team all Baltimore Area.
The junior guard added a new dimension to her game this season -- leadership. A quiet player who prefers to lead by example, Richards accepted a more active role in helping to guide her many younger teammates. At the same time, the repeat first-team selection lost none of her game.
She led the No. 7 Doves (23-4) with 12.9 points, 4.7 assists and 4.5 steals per game. In the Class 3A semifinals, Richards had a triple double -- 11 points, 10 rebounds and 10 steals -- in a 60-54 overtime loss to Atholton. She had 18 points and 15 rebounds in a victory over City in the Baltimore City final, and 15 points and 13 rebounds as the Doves avenged a midseason loss to Catonsville in the regional final.
Exceptionally quick, with slippery moves to the hoop, Richards shot 50.9 percent from the field. She already has scored more than 1,000 points.
VIDEO

2008 All Virgin Islands Hoops team -by David Edole

2008 All Virgin Islands Hoops team

First Team
F 5-9 Sherice Joseph, Sr., Central
F/C 5-10 Cheynae Rogers, Sr., PVT
G 5-10 Victoria Hamilton, Jr., Antilles
G 5-8 Lashonda Creque, Jr., Charlotte Amalie
G 5-5 Lanese Bough, Fr., Central

Second Team
F 5-8 Makeva Aska, Fr., Charlotte Amalie
F/G 5-8 Shayla Kelly, Soph., Charlotte Amalie
C 6-1 Hanifah Hendricks, Soph., Country Day
G 5-6 Julia Cassazza, Jr., Antilles
G 5-5 Shawna Moving, Sr., Central

Honorable Mention: Kemisha Harris (Complex), Nique Llanos (Complex), Shamyra Vanterpool (Central), Risheema Burke (Central), Sidney Rogers (PVT), Rebecca Siefer (Country Day), Aesha Peters (Charlotte Amalie), Teandra Richardson (Charlotte Amalie), Shari Jarvis (Antilles), Krystal Fredericks (Kean),

Individual Awards:
Tajama 'Taj' Abraham Most Valuable Player of the Year: Victoria Hamilton, Antilles
La'Keisha Frett Defensive Player of the Year: Sherece Joseph, Central
Martha Bodley Shot Blocking Award: Aesha Peters, Charlotte Amalie
Tombi Bell Lead Guard Award: Lanese Bough, Central High
Shaquanna Wilkins Shooting Award: Victoria Hamilton, Antilles
Stephanie 'Piedy' Williams Scoring Award: Victoria Hamilton, Antilles
Lynia Liburd Most Versatile award: Victoria Hamilton, Antilles
Natasha 'Roxie' Lettsome Rebounding Award: Sherece Joseph, Central
Budd Hazzard Coaching Award: Donald Bough, Central High
Vanice Frazier Territory Champs: Central High