EUROBASKET NEWS REPORT - 5/11/2008

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Men News

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ARGENTINA

Olimpico La Banda will play in LigaA -by Facundo Iatzky
Ciclista Olimpico La Banda won 72-67 to Union Sunchales in the 4th game of semifinals and moved to Liga A , among Lanus, for the 2008/2009 season. Olimpico returns to LigaA where they have been for three seasons a long time ago. Union had finished first in the regular season but in semifinals lost the first game and could not recover.

4th game:
Ciclista Olimpico (72): Martin Trovellesi 5, Juan angel Lopez 7, Mario Sepulveda 8, Anthony Glover (196-F-79, college: St.John's) 26 Fernando Gutman 6 (St); Federico Sureda 10 (X), Federico Arce 3 German Boero 7. coach: Gonzalo Garcia

Union (67): Jorge Toriano 8, Gaston Luchino 0, Todd Williams 14, Facundo Brizuela 21 Lucas Martina 4 (X) (St); Facundo Giorgi 0, Alejandro Ledesma 3, Lucas Gornatti 4, Leandro Mosconi 0 Miguel Isola 13. coach: Osvaldo Arduh

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ASIAN CLUB CHAMPIONSHIPS

Asia Champions Cup. Day 2 -by Eurobasket News

Al Rayyan, Qatar -Zain, Jordan 90:85 OT
After triumph in 21st Arab Clubs Championship, Zain could not continue their winning streak and lost the opener of Asia Champions Cup. In a overtime battle Al Rayyan beat Zain 90:85. The team from Jordan controlled the first half, but then failed in the last quarter. Daoud Musa (193-G-82) led the winners with 27 points. Eric Chatfield (191-G-79, college: N.Mexico) nailed 25, while Darlon Johnson scored 14. Zeid Abbas (203-C-83) top-scored for Zain with 25 points. Wesam Alsoos netted 23 and Boney Wilson added 16. Eric Chatfield, with eight assists and 25 points was named the MVP of the game.
Zain took a control of the game after the teams exchanged the lad in the very beginning. The team from Jordan had 18:15 and then increased to 40:33 at the half. Zain posted a 15-0 run towards the close of the second quarter, capitalizing on Rayyans switchover from man to zone defense.
Rayyan hit back with a 10-0 run at the start of the third quarter. It was a fall for Zain that produced only 8 points in the period. Being locked at 75 at the end of the fourth quarter, Rayyan held the edge as Eric Chatfield called the shots in setting up the plays. Al Rayyan wins the game and improves to 2-0 in Group A, while Zain will hope for the next games.

Al Rayyan, Qatar:Daoud Musa 27, Eric Chatfield 25, Darlon Johnson 14
Zain, Jordan:Zeid Abbas 25, Wesam Alsoos 23, Boney Wilson 16

Al Riyadi Beirut, Lebanon -MABU Hangtuah, Indonesia 79:44 26-6, 44-12, 56-21

Al Riyadi Beirut recorded their second win in Group A decimating Indonesias MABU Hangtuah 79:44. Al Riyadi Beirut smashed the opponent in the opening quarter 26:6 and never looked behind. They increased to 44:12 after the first half and had 56:21 entering the last period. El Khatib Fadi led the winners with 21 points, whilst Fakhreddine Ali posted 16. Marquello Morgan was the only one to reach double digits in defeat having 10 points.

Al Riyadi Beirut, Lebanon:El Khatib Fadi 21, Fakhreddine Ali 16
MABU Hangtuah, Indonesia: Marquello Morgan 10


Al Wasl, UAE -Saba Battery, Iran 116:100 2 OT
Al Wasl opened Asia Champions Cup in double-overtime thriller over Saba Battery from Iran. Emirates club was confident in the first three quarters, but then Saba Battery bounced back and tied the game after four quarters. The second overtime was the last for the latter to struggle as Al Wasl won the first game. Courtney Fields (206-F-82, college: Iona) was unstoppable with 37 points. Herve Lamizana (208-F/C-81, college: Rutgers) and Ibrahim Ahmad nailed 21points apiece, while Rashid Al-Zabi netted 18. Samad Nikkah led the way for Iran team with 29 points. Enyinn Mounike produced 28 points in defeat, whilst Mehdi Kamrani (181-G-82, agency: Huss Sport Agency) posted 20.
Al Wasl caught defending champions Saba Battery with their initial onslaught to cause the first upset. Emirates club took the lead from the very beginning and enjoyed 27:19 lead after the opening quarter. Another spurt in the second stanza led to 49:34 when the teams disappeared in the lockers. The lead was still increased for Al Wasl in the third quarter and they saw plus 16 entering the last period. Saba pulled their ranks together and began to fire back in the the fourth quarter, but with Hamed Ehadadi struggling under foul trouble the efforts of Samad Nikkah and Enyinn Mounike, well supported by Mehdi Kamrani failed to seize the initiative.
It was the best game so far in Asia Champions Cup and both teams will for sure deserve a top place.

Al Wasl, UAE:Courtney Fields 37, Herve Lamizana 21, Ibrahim Ahmad 21, Rashid Al-Zabi 18
Saba Battery, Iran: Samad Nikkah 29, Enyinn Mounike 28, Mehdi Kamrani 20

Al Qadsia, Kuwait-ONGC, India 116:35
Al Qadsia beating Oil and Natural Gas Commission from India116:35. The hosts dominated the court from the beginning until the end. It was an easy win after the first loss in the tournament. Abdullah Al Saraf led the winners with 26 points. James Williams posted 16, whilst Alpha Bangura (197-F/G-80, college: St.John's) scored 12. Trideep Rai (190-F-83) ended up with 12 points for Indian team.

Al Qadsia, Kuwait:Abdullah Al Saraf 26, James Williams 16, Alpha Bangura 12
ONGC, India: Trideep Rai 12



Standings
Asian Club Championships Standings
Group A
 1. Al Riyadi 2-0 
 2. Al Rayyan 2-0 
 3. Zain 0-1 
 4. BK Almaty 0-1 
 5. MubaHang 0-2 
Group B
 1. Muharraq 1-0 
 2. Al Wasl 1-0 
 3. Saba 1-1 
 4. Al Qadsia 1-1 
 5. ONGC 0-2 


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AUSTRIA

Alvin Sims in Furstenfeld -by Stefan Heinrich

Alvin Sims (193-G/F-74, agency: Heinrich Sports, college: Louisville) joined the Panthers during the Play-Off series against the Gmunden Swans. He earned minutes during the 4th game in Gmunden and was responsible for 5 points, 2 rebounds and 4 assists. During his outstand career Sims played in a lot of different countries on a very high level and was also played 4 games in the NBA for the Phoenix Suns, which makes him the first former NBA player who played in an Austrian team. While he played in Italy he was on the same roster with his new Head-Coach Aaron Mitchell and he also knows his new teammate Milan Goljovic (203-F-71, agency: Globalsports/Globalevents) from this team, as he was on the same roster too.



Furstenfeld joins Oberwart in the Final! -by Stefan Heinrich
In today's game 5 the current champion of Gmunden got eliminated in the Stadthalle Furstenfeld. against the Panthers. In the first half Furstenfeld opened a 14 point advantage with good defense and great work on the boards, but Gmunden came back in the second half. The deciding moment of the game happened 2 minutes before the end of the game, Peter Hutter (196-F/G-80, agency: Interperformances) went to the basket for an easy fastbreak dunk, but when the ball went the ball hit Hutters head and came out of the basket again, Furstenfeld grabbed the Rebound and Milan Goljovic (203-F-71, agency: Globalsports/Globalevents) scored a 3 pointer to bring the Panthers a 5 point lead in stead of a tied game and in the following time the Panthers secured the 95:86 victory.

In the Final series they will meet the Oberwart Gunners and there will be a new champion in the history of the Austrian Bundesliga.

Panthers: Mike Fraser (203-C, agency: Hart Sports Mngm, college: Oklahoma Baptist) 24+15 Rebounds, Milan Goljovic 18, Grum 15, Colwell 11+8 Rebounds, Shavies 10+12 Rebounds+7 Assists, Ocokoljic 10+7 Rebounds, Dale 5, Dragsic 2
Swans: Ian Boylan (198-G/F-83, agency: Passing Lane, college: Cal.St. Northridge) 26, Deteri Mayes (189-G-74, agency: Court Side, college: Murray St.) 19, Hutter 15, Johnson 12+15 Rebounds, Sullivan 6, Mayer 5, Schoninger 3

Oberwart Gunners book a spot in the Final -by Eurobasket News
Oberwart Gunners became the first finalist of Austrian League. The series between Allianz Swans Gmunden and BSC Raiffeisen Furstenfeld went into the fifth, decisive game, that will be held tonight.
Oberwart Gunners overcame Kapfenberg Bulls 81:72 and finished the series at 3-1. Oberwart Gunners lost the first half, but then bounced back in the second. At first they produced 24:19 in the third quarter and then finished the last with 23:16. Georg Florian (190-G-89) led the winners with 21 points to the Final. Adam Louis Boone posted 17, while Marko Moric scored 14. Kevin Nelson (192-G-84, agency: Strategic Sports, college: Park) top-scored with 14 points in the losing effort as other three players nailed 12.
Swans Gmunden edged Raiffeisen Furstenfeld 105:92 to tie the series at 2-2. The Swans stormed ahead with a 35:16 second period and never looked back. Deteri Mayes (189-G-74, agency: Court Side, college: Murray St.) paced all the charge with 37 points. Ian Boylan (198-G/F-83, college: Cal.St. Northridge) added 25 and Kevin Johnson (201-F, agency: Hart Sports Mngm, college: Humboldt St.) had 18. Anthony Shavies (191-G-83, college: Missouri St.) scored 25 for Furstenfeld in defeat. Michael Fraser had 16 and 12 rebounds and Samo Grum (194-G/F-79, agency: VTBM/SRBM) produced 15.
Game 5 between the teams for the second spot in the Final is planned for May 10th.

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BELGIUM

Standings - Division I
D1 Standings
 1. Bree 27-8 
 2. Charleroi 26-9 
 3. Oostende 25-10 
 4. M.Hainaut 22-13 
 5. Liege 20-15 
 6. Aalstar 16-19 
 7. Verviers-Pep. 14-21 
 8. Antwerp 11-24 
 9. Leuven 9-27 
 10. Gent 6-30 


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BOSNIA

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


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BRITISH VIRGIN ISLANDS

East, Bad Boys to headline Saturdays 2008 league opening -by David Edole
A rematch of last years Senior Division Championship game between East and Bad Boys will headline the start of the BVI Basketball Federations 2008 League, which will tip off with an opening ceremony Saturday beginning at 5:00 p.m. at the Multi-Purpose Sports Complex.

The colourful opening ceremony will include a parade of the 29 participating teams who will march off from the Elmore Stoutt High School (ESHS) at 4:30 p.m.

Teams must assemble outside the ESHS by 4:00 p.m. and are required to present at least seven players in uniform or face a fine of $250. Prizes will be awarded for punctuality and uniformity.

As part of the opening ceremony, Federation President, Guy General Malone, along with senior sport officials will deliver feature addresses. Basketball enthusiast and Past Federation President, Marvin Blyden MB will officially declare this years league open.

There has been much talk within the community of the start of the 2008 league. There continues to be a lot of talk, a lot of intensity and I expect it to be very good league this year, Malone stated.

Reigning Miss BVI and Miss Caribbean World, Leilani Stephens will also attend the opening ceremony to present the championship trophies to last years winners.

At the conclusion of the formal opening programme, action heats up with a youth game featuring players in the 9 12 age group followed by a rematch of last years Jr. Division Championship game featuring 3-peat champions, Virgin Gordas Jr. Mystics against Basics.

In the final game on opening night, Bad Boys will go head-to-head against last years Senior Division Champions, East.

The league continues Sunday at 6 p.m. with two enticing games featuring Ghetto Mix and Da Boys, who squared-off in last years Intermediate Division Championship.

Division Champs Ghetto Mix will take on the Long Look Bull Dogs in Zone A action, while in Zone B, Da Boys will challenge 2006 champions Run It Red.

Teams: Junior Division Zone A: Jr. Mystics, And One, Young Gunners, The Saints and Wolf Pack. Zone B: Basics, Another Level, Full Force, All Ball and Rams.

Intermediate Division Zone A: Ghetto Mix, Long Look Bulldogs, Off Da Chainz, No Limit, Top Shottas, Peace Makers and Squad Up. Zone B: Da Boys, Against Da Odds, Run It Red, Rebels, Outkast, Finishers and D-Unit.

Senior Division: East, Bad Boys, Young Legs, Guns and Latinos.

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BULGARIA

Lukoil Academic reached the final for seventh time in a row -by Valentin Anguelov
9 games against Spartak Pleven this season, 9 wins for Lukoil Academic. After 4 wins in the regular season, 2 in the Cup, the students swept the team from Pleven 3-0 in their semifinal series.

Today in Pleven Lukoil Academic didn't had trouble with the local team, beating them 98-78 and going in the final phase of the playoffs for the seventh time in seven years. The last 5 of those were succesfull for Lukoil, and only a miracle won't let them make it this year.

The final series was pulled back a few days, because both semifinals finished earlier. Lukoil Academic and Balkan will face off in the first game on Tuesday, 13th of May in Pravec. The series is 3 out of 5. Lukoil hasn't lost in Bulgaria in year and a half. Guess who will win?

Today in Balkanstroy, there was some kind of intrigue until the middle of the first quarter, when Spartak lead it 15-13. That was followed by a 15-2 run by Lukoil, and after 10 minutes of play they had a 28-17 lead.

Pero Antic (210-F-82, agency: Interperformances) was above all today. The macedonian star played only 26 minutes, but had 27 points (4 three-pointers) and grabbed 8 boards. Captain Todor Stoykov had 17, and Larry O'Bannon and Nenad Canak had 15 each.

For the home side, Sasha Topcov played good with 25 points in just 23 minutes. Hrisimir Dimitrov added 12 points, 6 rebounds and 5 assists.

Both coaches gave chance to some of the younger and not so used players.

Spartak Pleven is starting the battle for the bronze medals against Levski on the 15th in Sofia. The second game is on 18th in Pleven, and if needed number 3 will be in Sofia again - 21 May.

Balkan in the final again afer two decades -by Valentin Anguelov
Balkan qualified for the final of the playoffs of the Bulgarian Championship for the first time in 19 years. The team from Botevgrad did some heroics series against Levski Sofia, and swept the second best team in the regular season 3-0. On an emotional and dramatic night in front of their faithful fans, who filled the arena in Botevgrad, Balkan took the third game 78-71. Levski was one step away from getting back in the series.

The federation's new president Mihail Mihov and the national team coach Pini Gershon both saw the game. The Israeli specalist was especially interested in watching some potential Bulgarian national team players from both teams.

Levski started the game strong, as giving up was the last thing on their mind, despite the 0-2 deficit in the series, after a couple of home losses. Yet Balkan led it 7-4, but Levski scored 6 consecutive points through Stanislav Slaveykov and Asen Velikov for 7-10. After that Veselin Veselinov joined the good plays on offense, and his team had a 7-point lead - 12-19. Then 'The Blues' started missing some three-pointers, and they were punished by Dwayne Morton (200-F-71, agency: Interperformances, college: Louisville), who made it 17-19. After missing a shot though, youngster Tsvetelin Ivanov scored a three of his own and Levski was 7 ahead again, just before the first quarter ended 19-24.

The second ten minutes started with another three-pointer from Asen Velikov for 19-27 and from that moment until halftime Levski kept their 8 point lead. Balkan tried to shoot from downtown too, especially Dwayne Morton and Ivan Lilov. The latter was one of the Bulgarians also playing under the watchful eye of Gershon. Maybe that was a bit scary for the 19-year old and it wasn't going all his way during those minutes. That gave the temporary advantage to Levski, as Stanislav Slaveykov played a perfect first half with 16 points. Asen Velikov had 11 at the half, including shot-clock buzzer-beating three from 8 metres and at that point Levski was even 11 ahead - 31-42. At halftime it was 36-44 Levski. For Balkan Morton had already amassed 14 points, and Boljkovac - 10.

The key moment todnight was the third period. Balkan started strong in defense. Georgi Mladenov's players pulled it back to only 3 points, after Lubo Lilov scored a three-pointer for 46-49. The turnaround was complete when 3 minutes before the end of the third, the home side was leading 52-51. Julian Aladjov's headache was double, as Stefan Georgiev committed his 4th personal foul. After 30 minutes of play Balkan fans were alreday sensing triumph - 58-55.

Levski had no intension of surrendering. Just three months ago they smacked Balkan in that same hall by a margin of almost 30 points. Lead by their young guard Velikov, they turned the last 10 minutes into a real battle. For Levski their top scorer of the first half Slaveykov had 4 personal fouls, and was without a basket for a very long time. That was - until he scored a trey for 68-69.

And then came the decisive baskets from young Ivan Lilov and Dwayne Morton. Lilov scored a three-pointer, and then the veteran American made a fadeaway jumpshot and with a minute left on the clock Balkan was ahead of Levski 73-69. Then all that was left was a game of nerves, which the young Levski players weren't able to win. Asen Velikov made two free-throws, but after that he missed from long range, as did Veselinov and young Pavel Ivanov. When the game was already dead and buried, Atanas Radev capped Balkan's victory with a dunk, and the buzzer sounded at 78-71.

For the winners Morton had 24 points, Ivan Lilov finished with 20, Boljkovac scored 16 and their sixth man Radev added 15.

For Levski Velikov scored 24 (4 three-pointers). Slaveykov finished with 19, after those only 3 of his in the second half, and Stefan Georgiev had 10 rebounds, but only 6 points.

FULL STATS OF THE BALKAN - LEVSKI GAME

Pini Gershon: I'm impressed by Asen Velikov -by Valentin Anguelov
National team coach Pini Gershon left satisfied from the game between Balkan and Levski in semifinal playoffs in Botevgrad. He saw the match from the first row in the gym together with one of his assistants Titi Papazov.

First I would like to say that the atmosphere was great. I believe better team won despite their best player is 37 years old. As far as I know it is very hard to beat Lukoil Academic in Bulgaria, so this game for them was like winning the championship, said Pini Gershon for Gong.

Izraeli coach also said that he is very pleased with the play of Asen Velikov from Levski who had a great game and finished with 24 points.
Point guard of Levski Velikov played very good. Unfortunately his team lost but he was very good in this game. He makes me think what kind of foreigner we have to bring. I need to think about it, finished Gershon.



First BIBL working meeting took place in Sofia -by Valentin Anguelov
Today, 10 May 2008, the first working meeting of the BIBL took in Sofia, Bulgaria. The major decisions, accepted by all the participating federations (Bulgaria, FYR of Macedonia, Greece, Romania and Serbia) are:
I. The Executive Director of the BIBL shall be:
Mr. Robert Gergov

II. The Sports Director of the BIBL shall be:
Mr. Shay Shtriks

III. Members of the BIBL Board shall be:
1. Bulgarian Basketball Federation - Mr. Ivan Tsenov
2. F.Y.R. of Macedonia Basketball Federation - Mr. Ilija Merdzanovski
3. Hellenic Basketball Federation - Mr. Panagiotti Tsagronis
4. Romanian Basketball Federation - Ms. Carmen Tocala
5. Serbian Basketball Federation - Mr. Vladan Stoiljkovic
6. Balkan Sport & Travel Ltd. - Mr. Robert Gergov
7. Balkan Sport & Travel Ltd. - Mr. Shay Shtriks

IV. The BIBL Board approves the BIBL Regulations for season 2008/09, proposed and changed on 10.05.2008

V. The members of the BIBL Technical Commission shall be:
1. Mr. Ruven Virovnik - Vice President of FIBA Europe Technical Committee
2. Mr. Andreas Papadopoulos - Member of the Technical Committee of Greece
3. Mr. Shay Shtriks - Sports Director of the BIBL

VI. The members of the BIBL Competition Commission shall be:
1. Mr. Ilija Merdzanovski (F.Y.R. of Macedonia)
2. Mr. Radu Draganescu (Romania)
3. Ms. Eleonora Rangelova (Bulgaria)

VII. The names of the clubs to participate in the BIBL season 2008/09 will be proposed by the respective federations up to 1 June 2008.

VIII. The proposal of the calendar is BIBL to start in the first weekend of October and to finish the first week of March. The FINAL FOUR will take place 21-22 March 2009. There will be also an ALL STAR GAME on 17 December 2008.

IX. It was also proposed during the FINAL FOUR, a Juniors (U18) tournament to take place as the teams to participate in that tournament will be the juniors teams of the clubs in the Men`s FINAL FOUR.

X. The next meeting of the BIBL Board will be on 06-07 June 2008 in Sofia, Bulgaria. Mr. Nar Zanolin (Secretary General of FIBA Europe) and Mr. Kosta Iliev (Sports Director of FIBA Europe) will attend the event. The official meeting with the federations will take place on 06 June, 14:00h, and the draw and the official meeting with the clubs will be on 07 June.

List of participants in the BIBL Working meeting:
1. Ms. Carmen Tocala - President of Romanian Basketball Federation
2. Mr. Radu Draganescu - Secretary General of Romanian Basketball Federation
3. Mr. Mihail Mihov - President of Bulgarian Basketball Federation
4. Mr. Ivan Tsenov - Secretary General of Bulgarian Basketball Federation
5. Ms. Eleonora Rangelova - General Manager of Bulgarian Basketball Federation
6. Mr. Daniel Dimevski - President of F.Y.R. of Macedonia Basketball Federation
7. Mr. Ilija Merdzhanovski - General Manager of National Teams of F.Y.R. of Macedonia Basketball Federation
8. Mr. Miodrag Raznatovic - Law representative of Serbian Basketball Federation
9. Mr. Andreas Papadopoulos - Representative of Hellenic Basketball Federation
10.Mr. Robert Gergov - Executive Director of BIBL
11. Mr. Shay Shtriks - Sports Director of BIBL


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CHINA

China Summer League Schedule -by Robert Wang
Hello all, here is the summer league schedule on the request from the people out of China:

May 21 Tian Jin vs Jiang Su, Hei LongJiang vs Guang Dong, Shen Zhen vs He Nan, Dong guan vs Qing Dao
May 24 Tian Jin vs Guang Dong, Hei Long Jiang vs Jiang su, Shen Zhen vs Qing Dao, Dong guan vs He Nan,
May 28 Jang Su vs Shen Zhen, Guang Dong vs Dong Guan, He Nan vs Tian Jin, Qing Dao vs Hei Long Jiang,
May 31 Dong Guan vs Jiang su, Guang Dong vs Shen Zhen, He Nan vs Hei Long Jiang, Qing Dao vs Tian Jin,
June 4 Tian Jin vs Hei Long Jiang, Jang Su vs Guang Dong, Shen Zhen vs Dong Guan, He Nan vs Qing Dao,
June 7 Hei Long Jiang vs Shen Zhen, Guang Dong vs He Nan, Dong Guan vs Tian Jin, Qing Dao vs Jiang Su,
June 11 Hei Long Jiang vs Dong Guan, Guang Dong vs Qing Dao, Shen Zhen vs Tian Jin, He Nan vs Jiang su,
June 14 Jiang Su vs Tian Jin, Guang Dong vs Hei Long Jiang, He Nan vs Shen Zhen, Qing Dao vs Gong guan,
June 18 Guang Dong vs Tian Jin, Jiang su vs Hei Long Jiang, Qing Dao vs Shen zhen, He Nan vs Dong guan,
June 21 Shen Zhen vs Jiang su, Dong Guan vs guang Dong, Tian Jin vs He Nan, Hei Long Jiang vs Qing Dao,
June 25 Jiang Su vs Dong Guan, Shen Zhen vs Guang Dong, Hei Long Jiang vs He Nan, Tian Jin vs Qing Dao,
June 28 Hei Long Jiang vs Tian Jin, Guang Dong vs Jiang Su, Dong guan vs Shen Zhen, Qing Dao vs He Nan,
July 2 Shen Zhen vs Hei long Jiang, He Nan vs Guang Dong, Tian Jin vs Dong Guan, Jiang Su vs Qing dao,
July 5 Dong Guan vs Hei Long jiang, Qing Dao vs Guang dong, Tian Jin vs Shen Zhen, Jiang Su vs He Nan.

All games will start at 7:35pm in local time. The champion team will move up to the D-1 this year with Bei Jing Aoshen team (ABA team) together.


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CZECH REPUBLIC

Pardubice is last to join the semis -by Eurobasket News
BK Synthesia Pardubice became the last team in the semifinal series after a real battle against BK Decin. The latter having home-court advantage could not use it for good and lost in the decisive game. BK Synthesia Pardubice hada road 66:76 win to advance to the next stage. Sullivan Phillips (196-F-79, college: Columbia Union) led the winners with 21 points and 9 rebounds. Levell Sanders (189-G-75, agency: Stanley International, college: Seton Hall) nailed 17, while Tarvis Williams (205-F/C-78, college: Hampton) scored 15. Rico Grier (185-G-82, college: Pfeiffer) ended up with 21 points in defeat, whilst Miroslav Soukup (200-F-82) scored 13.
The semifinals will tip off on May 13-14. At first Nymburk will face BK Synthesia Pardubice on May 13 and then Geofin will take on Prostejov. Nymburk was the first NBL semifinalist. They swept A Plus Brno in the quarterfinal best-of-five series and eased to the next round of competition. Nymburk routed their opponents 116:58 at home court to gain the third win.
Geofin overcame USK Praha in the capital to complete a 3-1 series win. Geofin looked confident and easily ran away to a 13-point lead at halftime.
Prostejov knocked out Ostrava beating them 73:59 away from home in Game 4. Ostrava were up by 3 points after the starting stanza but Prostejov surged ahead and rolled to the long break leading by 5 points. The visitors stretched the gap to 8 points after three quarters of action and eased to an overall win in the fourth quarter.

BK Decin - BK Synthesia Pardubice 66:76
BK Decin: Rico Grier 21, Miroslav Soukup 13
BK Synthesia Pardubice: Sullivan Phillips 21+9 rebs, Levell Sanders 17, Tarvis Williams 15

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DOMINICAN REPUBLIC

GUG 2008 SANTIAGO CHAMPIONS -by Oscar Peralta
Gregorio Urbano Gilbert wins championship over Cupes in the finals. They took the best of 7 series in 5 games. This is the second trip in a row for cupes to the championship, but both time felt short. Felipe Lopez was the MVP of the finals. He score 23 in the final game to put cupes out of there misery. Lopez had a good season in Santiago. He put the team that had been struggling for years on his back and led them to the promise land. Congratulations to Gregorio Urbano Gilbert that was there first championship since 1996.

GUG STORMS BACK! LEADS SERIES 3-1 -by Ozell Wells
GUG played like a team on a mission Wednesday night defeating CUPES 74-92 and takng a 3-1 lead in the SERIE FINAL!
Felipe Lopez (197-G/F-74, college: St.John's) led all scorers with 25 points and 11 rebounds. Newly signed Carlos Payano (196-F/G-71, college: Dowling) added 22 poiints on GREAT SHOOTING from behind the 3pt line and Julius Nwosu (207-C-71, agency: Pro Management Agency, college: Liberty) was fierce in the paint with 15 points and 16 rebound.
For CUPES Fausto Alex Sime (192-G-79) gave his best effort with 24 points and was aided by 17 points from Jamaal Thomas (202-F-80, college: Angelo St.) in the losng effort. Early foul trouble for Antoine Broxsie (208-F-79, agency: Court Side, college: Oklahoma St.) and Osvaldo Lopez (189-G/F-83) limited the offense of CUPES in this game.

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EL SALVADOR

Other roster changes in LSB -by Gianni Pascucci
UTEC import Jorge Taton wasn' t aable to recover from his injury, and has been replaced by veteran Pedro Salazar (204-C-72). Cosmos released Guatemalan Gerson Duarte (202-C-83) and Enrique Samayoa (193-F-82), who had played only few games with the team, and replaced them with Panamanian Akbar Lawson (196-G/F-81), Hondurean Jerry Echenique (201-C-79, college: High Point) and Ricardo Amaya (191-G-84, agency: Tank Sports), who is GUA-ESA, because his mom is from El Salvador. Denver released Cristian Herrera (205-F/C-84, agency: Court Side), signing at his place Philip McCandies (206-C-83, college: Charleston)

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FINLAND

KORISLIIGA: Mihailo Pavicevic continues -by Rauno Hurmalainen
Eight years coaching in Finland and on Honka (Espoo) roster seems to be only a good start for Head Coach Mihailo Pavicevic from Montenegro.
Five Finnish Championships may get continuation during the years to come as Honka and Pavicevic have signed a new contract model 2+2 years.
During this coming summer Pavicevic may follow Finnish PG Petteri Koponen to Portland Trailblazers (NBA) camp, but is ready to guide Honka to
new success again from September on.

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FRANCE

ProA Day 29 Round up -by Chris Spiesser
Pau-Orthez 89 69 Gravelines
Pau overcame a 5pt 1st qt deficit on their way to a 20pt victory over Gravelines. Pau won their last home game of the season by shooting 52.1% from the field and only committing 11 turnovers. Antonio Graves led Pau with a game high 29pts on 10-15 shooting from the field and 5 of 7 from the 3pt line. Deji Akindele also had a great game with 18pts on 9 of 11 shooting from the field, 9reb, and 4 steals. Maximiliano Stanic dished out 10ast in the win. Graveslines had only 3 players score in double figures led by Joe Bunn with 18pts and Marcus Slaughter with 15pts and 9rebs.

Hyeres-Toulon 75 68 Orleans
Austin Nichols led Hyeres-Toulon to victory by scoring 27pts on 6 of 8 shooting from the 3pt line. Perincic Hrvoje added a double double with 11pts and 11rebs. Tony Williams and Daniel Horton scored 11pts each in the win. Aloysius Anagonye had a team high 18pts and 7rebs and Benjamin Dewar scored 12pts in a losing effort.

Dijon 78 61 Le Havre
Dijon had no problems with Le Havre handing them a 17pt beat down. Le Havre shot 33.3% from the field while Dijon shot 50% from the field, which proved to be the difference. David Simon carried Dijon by scoring 22pts on 10 of 13 shooting and grabbing 9rebs. Maleye added 18pts while Abdoulaya Mbaye chipped in with 17pts in the win. John Cox had a team high 21pts for Le Havre and Marcellus Sommerville had a double double with 15pts and 10rebs.

Strasbourg 67 88 Le Mans
Le Mans went on the road and blew out Strasbourg by 21pts. Every player reached the scoring column for Le Mans led by Luka Bogdanovic with 12pts and 11rebs. Phillip Ricci had a team high 16pts and Raviv Limonad had 15pts. The five starters accounted for 59 of the teams points led by Rob Lewin with 13pts and 13rebs. John McCord had a team high 16pts and Derrick Obasohan added 15pts in the loss.

Chalon 93 77 Roanne
Chalon earned a16pt victory by shooting 54% from the field and nearly reaching the century mark. John Ford had a game high 22pts on 8 of 11 shooting for Chalon. Rowan Barrett scored 18pts and Xavier Corosine came off the bench to score 15pts. Brion Rush scored 16pts and Laurent Cazalon scored 14pts in the losing effort.

Paris 67 85 ASVEL
ASVEL took care of business on the road by shooting 50% from the field and only committing 9 turnovers. Uche Nsonwu-Amadi had a game high 21pts and 8rebs and Chevy Troutman added 16pts and 9rebs in the win. Paris only had 3 players score in double figures led by Je'Kel Foster with 15pts and Cyril Akpomedah added 14pts.

Clermont 66 80 Cholet
Cholet had no problems with a Clermont team that has packed it in since half way through the season. Nando De Colo had a team high 16pts and Steed Tchicamboud added 13pts in the win. Tony Skinn led Clermont with 18pts and LaVell Blanchard and Lesly Bengarin scored 10pts each.

Nancy 77 54 Vichy
Vichy failed to show up for the game only shooting 29% from the field in the 23pt loss. Nancy had 5 players score in double figures led by Ricardo Greer with 18pts and 5 ast. Victor Sammick added a double double with 13pts and 13rebs. Vicy had two players score in double figures led by Zach Moss with 12pts and Rasheed Wright with 11pts.

*****************************************************
GEORGIA

Final Four - Day 2 -by Levan Mikeladze
TSU was set without its head coach Nugzar Cheishvili who got ejected by the end of first quarter, but managed to stay focused and won the game, that evened the tight series at 1 apiece. Davit Barbakadze (204-F-82) and Davit Berishvili (181-G-78) had solid games for students, while Kote Tugushi (193-G-84), Avia's captain had 5 offensive rebounds and play off high 28 points.

TSU 1:1 Avia

As for the Energy Invest and Vita, David Ustiashvili's team won the second game as well and needs just one win to go to the finals. Jovan Stefanov (208-F-83, college: Ill.-Chicago) was crucial player for Energy Invest's win who made 28 points, 8 rebounds, 4 block shots and 3 steals.

Energy 2:0 Vita

Final Four - Day 1 -by Levan Mikeladze

Energy 102:76 Vita
30:28, 18:21, 34:13, 20:14

The hosts started well and if not for early shining of Vita forward Mikheil Berishvili (205-F-87, agency: N.E.T.) (20 first half points), Energy would have been in control of the match.

However, Energy clamped around Berishvili after the break and it paid off big way. Giorgi Gamqrelidze (183-G-86) had an outstanding game while dishing out 11 assists and the favorites went ahead in this series, while hosting the second encounter as well. Besik Lezhava (192-G-86) was hiting the a lot of three pointers while Serbian forward Jovan Stefanov (208-F-83, college: Ill.-Chicago) took very important lay-ups...

Energy Invest: Besik Lezhava (23 points, 3 assists); Jovan Stefanov (20 points, 3 rebounds); Giorgi Gamqrelidze (13 points, 11 assists, 4 steals).
Vita: Mikheil Berishvili (29 points, 5 rebounds. 2 steals); Giorgi Markhvashvili (14 points); Davit Gvimradze (11 points).



TSU 114:118 Avia
19:35, 24:30, 36:30, 35:23

Levan Moseshvili 's team went ahead by double digits from early on and thanx to an inspired play from Nodar Beraia, they clinged to this lage lead throughout the whole first half. Team captain Kote Tugushi (193-G-84) was solid at playmaking and Tornike Niniashvili (202-C-82) controlled the glass. The lead went as high as 28 points.

In third quarter, however, Kote Tugushi fouled out and TSU cut the lead to 3 points in the closing minutes, but Avia made its free throws and went ahead in the series. 3 players each from both teams fouled out, as Avia shot 54 free throws.



Geogian Stats Leaders
Regular Season Stats Leaders
Points Per Game
1. G. Shermadini 33.5
2. M. Berishvili 21.4
3. J. Stefanov 19.6
4. B. Lezhava 18.1
5. G. Gamqrelidze 17.5
Rebounds Per Game
1. G. Shermadini 18.4
2. J. Stefanov 9.3
3. M. Berishvili 8.1
4. R. Matiashvili 7.6
5. J. Toudjani 7.3
Assists Per Game
1. G. Gamqrelidze 7.6
2. K. Tugushi 5.8
3. G. Shermadini 4.8
4. M. Berishvili 4.8
5. J. Stefanov 4.6
Steals Per Game
Giorgi Gamqrelidze 3.0
Blocks Per Game
G. Shermadini 3.1


Standings - Higher League
Highest League Standings
 1. Energy 24-6 
 2. TSU 17-13 
 3. Vita 16-14 
 4. Avia 16-14 
 5. Dinamo T. 13-17 
 6. Maccabi T. 4-26 


Georgian U16 National Team Roster 2008 -by Levan Mikeladze

Davit Gurabanidze (175-G-92)

Nodar Teneishvili (195-G-92)

Levan Eliadze (196-F-92)

Shalva Kakauridze (188-G-92)

Nodar Sharabidze (199-F-92)

Giorgi Tetelashvili (185-G-92)

Irakli Cherqezishvili (175-G-92)

Duda Sanadze (195-G-92)

Merab Boqolishvili (194-F-92)

Nikoloz Magradze (196-F-92)

Giga Mekhrishvili (195-F-92)

Sergi Meladze (194-F-92)

Goga Javakhishvili (199-F-92)

Irakli Alkhanaidze (199-F-92)

Head coach: Gela Tsuladze



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

Stats Leaders - 1.Bundesliga
1.Bundesliga Stats Leaders
Points Per Game
1 Black, Pader 21.3
2 Allen, Frank 20.0
3 Jenkins, ALBA 18.3
4 Green, Trier 18.0
5 Greene, Kln 16.0
Rebounds Per Game
1 Gibbs, Ulm 9.4
2 Katic, Wal T 8.3
3 Guinn, Bremerh 8.2
4 Haryasz, Bremerh 8.0
5 Merriex, Wal T 7.8
Assists Per Game
1 Whiting, Lever 4.6
2 Rowland, Trier 4.4
3 Joyce, Ulm 4.3
4 Gardner, Bonn 4.3
5 Felton, Jena 4.2
Steals Per Game
1 Ross, Ludwigs 1.8
2 Basden, Bonn 1.8
3 Yarbrough, Ludwigs 1.8
Blocks Per Game
1 Benton, Trier 1.9
2 Haryasz, Bremerh. 1.8
3 Femerling, ALBA 1.4
2FGP
1 Femerling, ALBA 74.2
2 Ratkovica, Oldenb 70.6
3 Nadjfeji, Alba 70.4
3FGP
1 Dill, Goet. 100
2 Johnson, Frankf. 100
3 Shtein, Frankf. 80
Free Throws
1 Stuckemann, Phant 100.0
2 Cage, Trier 93.8
3 Rasic, Alba 93.3


Roster for A2 nationl team announced -by Manuel Schust

Today A2 national coach Frank Menz announced the names of 9 players, that will play for Germany this summer.
The following players got their roster spot secured:

Gordon Geib (180-G-83, agency: LimeLight)

Nikita Khartchenkov (201-F-87, agency: Scorers 1st Sportmanagement)
Alex King (200-F/G-85)
Jan Lipke (193-G-83, agency: Court Side)
Dirk Maedrich (211-C-83, agency: Court Side)
Chris McNaughton (211-C-82, agency: Pro One Sports, college: Bucknell)
Rouven Roessler (200-F-80, agency: Pro One Sports)
Heiko Schaffartzik (182-G-84)
Philip Zwiener (198-F-85, agency: Court Side)

The following 15 players will get the chance to join the team if they do a good job in training camp:

Moritz Wohlers (203-F/C-84, agency: Court Side, college: Montana St. - Billin)
David McCray (188-G-86)
Benjamin Fumey (201-F-87)
Jannik Freese (208-F/C-86)
Tony Granz (205-F/C-87)
Jermain Raffington (205-F/C-85, college: Southeastern CC)
Marco Buljevic (193-G-87)
Tim Schwartz (199-F-87)
Marco Grimaldi (188-G-83)
Bjorn Schoo (213-F/C-81, agency: Court Side, college: Northern St.)
Sebastian Greene (203-F)
Hubertus van Heyden (-87)
Leo Niebuhr (201-F-86)
Flavio Stueckemann (187-G-85)
Andrej Mangold (190-G-87)



Chris Rodgers to Grevenbroich -by Moritz Korff
The Elephants Grevenbroich (Regionalliga West) added Chris Rodgers (186-G-81, college: Bucknell) to the roster for the 2008-2009 season. The 26-year-old Point Guard shot hoops for the Bergheim Bandits during this past campaign and averaged 26.4 points per contest (11 games). Rodgers played college-basketball at Bucknell University (NCAA1) until 2003 and suited up for three different teams of the EBA since leaving school. 'Chris has already practiced with us and fits into the team very well', Grevenbroich-coach Heimo Foerster stated on the team's website. Rodgers will replace Brian Graves (188-G, agency: Profibasketball.de, college: Catawba) who had received an offer to spend another season with the Elephants, but turned it down to play in a higher league.

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GREECE

P.S.A.K : The good and the "bad" teams are... -by Serafim Karaiskakis

P.S.A.K published the good and the 'bad' teams in A1 and A2 regarding the payments to their players this period. Some teams already try to fix the things.



A1: Team Name

Payment delay

AEK

none

Rethimno

none

Kolossos

none

Maroussi

none

Panathinaikos

none

Panellinios

none

Panionios

none

Olympiakos

none

Olympiada

none

Aris

2 & half months

AEL

3 months

Olympia

3 months

Aigaleo

3 months

Paok

5 months


A2: Team Name

Payment delay

Ionikos Lamias

none

Trikala

none

ICBS

none

Panerythraikos

none

Peristeri

none

Ment

none

Apollon Patras

none

Ilysiakos

2 months

Dafni

2 months

Xanthi

4 months

Pagrati

4 months

Panorama

5 months

Iraklis

5 months

Sporting

5 months

Palaio Faliro

6 months

Halkida

7 months




*****************************************************
HUNGARY

Kormend got into the semifinal, Pecs tied the series! -by Tamas Deri
kenneth There was the fourth game between Szolnok and Pecs in the first round last night, and even that game was very exciting.
In the first quarter the home team was lead by Vernard Hollins (192-G-80, agency: Warren Sports, college: Wright St.), but on the other side Nick Williams (192-G-83, agency: Beo Basket, college: Cincinnati) was the man, who did not let decide the game after 10 minutes.
In the next two quarters the guests tied the game and even after 40 minutes there was no winner: OVERTIME! PVSK won the extra-time 12-10, so there will be a fifth game on Sunday in Pecs.

Even Kormend tried to get into the semifinals on home court, as they were leading the series 2-1 after 3 games. In the beginning the home team had a great run, but the guests could get closer, so it was not one easy victory for the red and blacks.


SZOLNOKI OLAJ KK - PVSK-EXPO CENTER PECS 74-76
(23-16, 13-17, 14-18, 14-13, 10-12)
Szolnok, Att.: 2500, Referees: Hartyani, Bognar, Farkas
SZOLNOK: Thomas Kelley (188-G-76, agency: Avi Zilberman, college: Michigan St.) 26/12, Cziczas 5/3, Vernard Hollins 15/3, Sabaliauskas 6/6, Gobi, Andras Molnar (195-F/G-83) 15/9, Jurkunas 5/3, Harazin 2, Coach: Peter Por
PECS: Nick Williams 21/6, Jovanovic 11/3, Gabor Denes (197-F-82) 12/9, Lapov 6/3, Peter Grebenar (211-C-81) 18, Aleksic 8/6, Toth, Czigler, Kutasi, Coach: Stojan Ivkovic


POLAROID-LAMI-VED KORMEND - PLANET LEASING DOMBOVAR KC 88-71
(23-16, 25-18, 13-22, 27-15)
Kormend, Att.: 2500, Referees: Forrai, Adam, Kiraly
KORMEND: Thomas 10, Fodor M. 9/3, Csaba Ferencz (192-G-85, agency: Laszlo Vinko Services) 19/15, Stanley Ocitti (203-F/C-80, agency: R.H.Consultancy, college: Binghamton) 19/9, Vavra 2, Turmmer 9/9, Kenneth Henderson (201-F-82, college: Texas Arlington) 19/3, Fodor G. 1, Coach: Dragoljub Krivacevic
DOMBOVAR: English 14, Simon 5/3, Balogh, Wiley 14/6, Marco Sanders (202-F-79, agency: Elfus-Siegel Management (ESM), college: Point Park) 15, Bodi 7, Deak 3/3, Andras Molnar 13/9, Coach: Dzunic Branislav

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

MABU Hangtuah has to admit first two losses -by Eurobasket News

MABU Hangtuah started Asia Champions Cup with two losses, but gets enormous experience playing with other teams in the tournament.

Al Rayyan looked too good for Indonesian MABU Hangtuah in the opening game of the Asia Champions Cup for both sides. They got into preliminary Group A of the 19th edition of the prestigious tournament held this year in Kuwait. The teams looked pretty well matched in the starting frame however Al Rayyan still managed to clear off to a 12-point distance. The things started to brighten up for Qatar side in the second period. American point guard Eric Chatfield (191-G-79, college: N.Mexico) orchestrated Al Rayyan offense well and Qatar team gradually went ahead. Chatfield just returned to the team from Turkey and joined the ranks smoothly. The former Asia Champions Cup title holders ran away to a 23-point distance at halftime and controlled the tempo afterwards. They held MABU Hangtuah to only 4 points in the third stanza and never looked in the final term. Daoud Musa (193-G-82) knocked down 25 points for Al Rayyan to be trumped the games MVP. Eric Chatfield compiled 18 points and 9 assists, while Khalid Abdi scored 12 points for the winners. Hapsak Putra (183-G/F-83) nailed 20 points for MABU Hangtuah in a losing effort.
Al Riyadi Beirut recorded their second win in Group A decimating Indonesias MABU Hangtuah 79:44. Al Riyadi Beirut smashed the opponent in the opening quarter 26:6 and never looked behind. They increased to 44:12 after the first half and had 56:21 entering the last period. Fsadi El Khatib led the winners with 21 points, whilst Ali Fakherdien posted 16. Marquello Morgan was the only one to reach double digits in defeat having 10 points.



*****************************************************
IRAN

Al Wasl opens Asia Champions Cup in double-overtime thriller over Saba Battery -by Eurobasket News
Al Wasl, UAE -Saba Battery, Iran 116:100 2 OT

Al Wasl opened Asia Champions Cup in double-overtime thriller over Saba Battery from Iran. Emirates club was confident in the first three quarters, but then Saba Battery bounced back and tied the game after four quarters. The second overtime was the last for the latter to struggle as Al Wasl won the first game. Courtney Fields (206-F-82, college: Iona) was unstoppable with 37 points. Herve Lamizana (208-F/C-81, college: Rutgers) and Ibrahim Ahmad nailed 21points apiece, while Rashid Al-Zabi netted 18. Samad Nikkah led the way for Iran team with 29 points. Enyinn Mounike produced 28 points in defeat, whilst Mehdi Kamrani (181-G-82, agency: Huss Sport Agency) posted 20.
Al Wasl caught defending champions Saba Battery with their initial onslaught to cause the first upset. Emirates club took the lead from the very beginning and enjoyed 27:19 lead after the opening quarter. Another spurt in the second stanza led to 49:34 when the teams disappeared in the lockers. The lead was still increased for Al Wasl in the third quarter and they saw plus 16 entering the last period. Saba pulled their ranks together and began to fire back in the the fourth quarter, but with Hamed Ehadadi struggling under foul trouble the efforts of Samad Nikkah and Enyinn Mounike, well supported by Mehdi Kamrani failed to seize the initiative.
It was the best game so far in Asia Champions Cup and both teams will for sure deserve a top place.

Al Wasl, UAE:Courtney Fields 37, Herve Lamizana 21, Ibrahim Ahmad 21, Rashid Al-Zabi 18
Saba Battery, Iran: Samad Nikkah 29, Enyinn Mounike 28, Mehdi Kamrani 20

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

Round 24:First and second teams -by Netanel Dahan
#s#
#e#6


Sneed


Tolbert


Kadir


Dixon


Ohayon

Round 24 MVP: Omar Sneed (203-F/C-76, college: Memphis).

First team
Omar Sneed, Omar was great, he lead Rishon to important win when he scored 31 points, grabed 9 rebounds, and 2 steals
Brian Tolbert (188-G-74,agency:agency: Ronsport, college: E.Michigan) of Maccabi Ironi Ramat Gan,Brian scored 28 points in just 30 minutes, and 9-of-11 from the 2 points
Elishay Kadir of Maccabi Ironi Ramat Gan (203-F-87, agency: Avi Zilberman), Kadir scored 17 points, took 8 rebounds, and draw 6 fouls
Malik Dixon of Hapoel Holon (187-G-75, college: UALR), Malik scored 18 points in 18 minutes! he grabed 3 rebounds, and also passed 3 assists
Yogev Ohayon of Hapoel Galil Elyon (189-G-87, agency: Interperformances), Yogev organize Galil's offense and lead Galil to amazing win over Maccabi, Yogev scored 8 points took 6 rebounds, draw 4 fouls dishing 5 assists and kidnap 6 steals

Hall
Second team
Adam Hall of Gilboa/Afula/Migdal Haemek (196-F/G-80, college: Virginia), Adam scored 20 points, took 5 rebounds and aslo draw 5 fouls
Rod Grizzard (203-G-80, college: Alabama), Rod scored 24 points points and go with 12 rebounds
Guy Pniny of Hapoel Migdal Jerusalem (201-F-83, agency: Avi Zilberman), Guy scored 19 points took 6 rebounds and go with 7 steals!
Lior Eliyahu of Maccabi Elite Tel-Aviv (205-F-85, agency: ZAG Advocates), Lior scored 17 points took 3 rebounds and go with 2 steals
Terence Morrisof Maccabi Elite Tel-Aviv (206-F-79, college: Maryland), Terence scored 9 points grabed 15 rebounds! dishing 4 assists draw 4 fouls and go with 3 steals



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

Serie A Playoffs: Pesaro out, Cantu' and Fortitudo in -by Luca Bianchin

Pesaro loses at home against Avellino, ending regular season behind Cantu' and Upim: no playoffs for Scavolini. Marques Green (170-G-82, college: St.Bonaventure) led Avellino in the fourth quarter, when Air took the decisive lead with a 9-2 run in 4 minutes. Green closed with 18, while Pesaro had in Hicks the top scorer (26 with 9/10 from the free throw line). Thanks to Avellino, Cantu' and Bologna improved to seventh and eighth place: Tisettanta prevailed in Rieti (but not as easily as expected), while Bologna managed to win in Milano against Armani Jeans. Joseph Forte (193-G-81, agency: Megasport, college: N.Carolina) impressed scoring 31 points with 4 assists and Milano ended the regular season with the usual, positive Danilo Gallinari (202-G-88, agency: Players Group): 19 points for Nba prospect. Armani in first round will face Premiata Montegranaro, able to beat Udine at home. Benetton Treviso outscored Teramo but failed to reach 9th place: no chances to play Euroleague next season for the Greens.

1 Montepaschi Siena - 8 Upim Bologna
4 Premiata Montegranaro - 5 Armani Jeans Milano
3 Air Avellino - 6 Pierrel Capo d'Orlando
2 Lottomatica Roma - 7 Tisettanta Cantu'



Lega2-Playoff QF Game 3 -by Gabriele Fioretti
After three games two series had a sweep. Caserta, led by another great game by Randolph Childress (190-G-72, college: Wake Forest) (22 pts, with 7/8 from the court), won at Rimini (Rashad Bell (200-F-82, college: Boston U.) and Omar Thomas (195-F-82, college: UTEP) both at 21 scored) and now Caserta is going to wait with team will have to face between Casale and Soresina, after that the team coached by Stefano Cioppi defeated on the road Casale (Taquan Dean (193-G-83, college: Louisville) at 22 pts) thanks to J.R. Reynolds (188-G-84, agency: Arik Krayn Services, college: Virginia) (24 pts) but most of all thanks to a big game by Marco Cusin (211-C-85, agency: Interperformances) (16+13 and 3 blocked shots and the 100% from the court). The other semifinal will see Jesi, that swept Sassari (Brent Darby (185-G-81, college: Ohio St.) at 18 scored) with Michele Maggioli (212-C-77) (28 pts) and David Moss (196-F-83, agency: SportsTalent, college: Indiana St.) (19+11), and the team that will win the serie between Reggio Emilia and Pistoia. Anyone of this two teams have still win on the road. Yesterday, thanks to a great defense, Pistoia (Ronald Davis (190-G-82, college: Wisc.-Milwaukee) had 14+10 and Guido Rosselli (196-G-83) scored 17 pts) defeated Reggio Emilia (Benjamin Ortner (206-F/C-83, college: Metro St.) 11+11). Game-4 will be played at Casale and at Pistoia next sunday.
Rimini-Caserta 80-94 (Caserta won the serie 3-0)
Casale M.to-Soresina 81-90 (Soresina led 2-1)
Jesi-Sassari 89-76 (Jesi won the serie 3-0)
Pistoia-Reggio Emilia 63-57 (Reggio Emilia led 2-1)
See complete boxscores at www.legaduebasket.it

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

Zain loses the opener of Asia Champions Cup -by Eurobasket News
Al Rayyan, Qatar -Zain, Jordan 90:85 OT

After triumph in 21st Arab Clubs Championship, Zain could not continue their winning streak and lost the opener of Asia Champions Cup. In a overtime battle Al Rayyan beat Zain 90:85. The team from Jordan controlled the first half, but then failed in the last quarter. Daoud Musa (193-G-82) led the winners with 27 points. Eric Chatfield (191-G-79, college: N.Mexico) nailed 25, while Darlon Johnson scored 14. Zeid Abbas (203-C-83) top-scored for Zain with 25 points. Wesam Alsoos netted 23 and Boney Wilson added 16. Eric Chatfield, with eight assists and 25 points was named the MVP of the game.
Zain took a control of the game after the teams exchanged the lad in the very beginning. The team from Jordan had 18:15 and then increased to 40:33 at the half. Zain posted a 15-0 run towards the close of the second quarter, capitalizing on Rayyans switchover from man to zone defense.
Rayyan hit back with a 10-0 run at the start of the third quarter. It was a fall for Zain that produced only 8 points in the period. Being locked at 75 at the end of the fourth quarter, Rayyan held the edge as Eric Chatfield called the shots in setting up the plays. Al Rayyan wins the game and improves to 2-0 in Group A, while Zain will hope for the next games.

Al Rayyan, Qatar:Daoud Musa 27, Eric Chatfield 25, Darlon Johnson 14
Zain, Jordan:Zeid Abbas 25, Wesam Alsoos 23, Boney Wilson 16

*****************************************************
LEBANON

Al Riyadi recorded two wins -by Eurobasket News
Lebanese Al Riyadi got to an impressive start of their Asia Champions Cup campaign in Kuwait. They routed Kazakhstan BK Almaty to gain their first win at the competition. Both teams were assigned into the preliminary Group A together with Zain Club from Jordan, Al Rayyan from Qatar and Indonesian MABU Hangtuah. Lebanese powerhouse opened the game in a high-flying manner doing perfect defensive job limiting their opponents to 7 points. Al Riyadi held to a 21:7 lead after the first frame and stretched the gap to as many as 31 points at halftime. Fadi El Khatib (197-F-79, agency: Pro Management Agency) and Joseph Joe Vogel looked too good for Almaty defense at the moment and paced the Beirut outfit to a confident success. BK Almaty never threatened the margin after the long intermission. Moreover Lebanese team piled up an insurmountable 51-point buffer before the fourth team. They eased past hapless BK Almaty in the fourth term to celebrate an impressive victory. Ahmad Ismail (201-F-76) scored 21 points and was named the games MVP. Fadi El Khatib provided 17 points and 6 boards for the winners. Anton Kataev (201-F-84) and Vladimir Gellert (202-F-81) answered with 12 points apiece for Kazakhstan team in defeat.
Al Riyadi Beirut recorded their second win in Group A decimating Indonesias MABU Hangtuah 79:44. Al Riyadi Beirut smashed the opponent in the opening quarter 26:6 and never looked behind. They increased to 44:12 after the first half and had 56:21 entering the last period. Fadi El Khatib led the winners with 21 points, whilst Ali Fakherdien posted 16. Marquello Morgan was the only one to reach double digits in defeat having 10 points.

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

News from abroad -by Eurobasket News
Kestutis Sestokas (203-F-76) together with TU/Rock reached the KLM Final. The regular season champions overcame Fausto in the third game of the semifinal best-of-five series to complete the sweep and booked their spot in the championship series. Fausto had little to lose in this one and tried to match the hosts tempo from the start. The visitors answered for every strike from their cross-town rivals and kept it leveled at 19 after the starting frame. Long-range artillery proved helpful for Fausto in the second term. The bunch of trebles from Augenijus Vaskys (196-G-72), Osvaldas Macernis (197-F-82) and Tanel Kaljula propelled the visitors to a surprising lead. Fausto outpaced the home side and grabbed a 48:34 advantage at halftime. However the momentum did not last for too long. TU/Rock came out of the dressing room with a different approach and immediately denied the deficit. The hosts accounted for 29 points in the third period to make it all square before the fourth period. Fausto failed to reignite their inspirational game of the first half and could not match TU/Rock in the final period. The league favorites eased past their opponents to clinch the Final birth. Silver Leppik topscored for TU/Rock with 20 points. Brian Cusworth provided 17 points and 10 boards, while Janar Talts had 11 points and 10 boards for the winners. Another Lithuanian Augenijus Vaskys answered with 17 points for TU/Rock. Tanel Kaljula notched 16 points and Lithuanian Osvaldas Macernis came up with 15 in a loss. The hosts outrebounded Fausto 37:22 and converted 51% from the field.
LeBron James shooting misery continued in the second game of the series against Boston which resulted in the Celtics bagging an easy 89:73 victory. Paul Pierce scored 19 points and Ray Allen added 16 as the Celtics as they accumulated a 2-0 lead in the series. LeBron James once again failed to put on a game-winning performance going for 6/24 from the field. He shot 1/11 in the second and third frames while Boston went on a 36:10 run to leave the visitors far behind. The hosts never looked back afterwards leading by as many as 20 points in the fourth term. Kevin Garnett provided 13 points and 12 boards for the winners. LeBron James secured 21 points, 6 assists and 5 boards for the Cavs. Zydrunas Ilgauskas (218-C-75, agency: Interperformances) had 19 points in defeat. The third game is scheduled for Saturday in Cleveland.
Ramunas Siskauskas (197-G-78) won Euroleague with Russian CSKA Moscow. CSKA powered their way to the Euroleague championship with a 91-77 victory over Maccabi and was lead by Trajan Langdon 21 points, who mas named MVP of the Final Four. Ramunas Siskauskas nailed 13 points and made 4 boards.
Ksystof Lavrinovic (210-C-79) took bronze in Euroleague with Montepaschi. Siena's Ksystof Lavrinovic step his game up and the first quarter ended 21:19 for Italian team over Tau. He top-scored in the game with 19 points.

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LUXEMBOURG

Larrie Smith leads Sparta past Etzella! Sparta in finals again! Musel Pikes wins with Defense! Amicale bows out! -by Alex Meyers

Friday, May 9 2008

Sparta 86 - Etzella 76

Sparta: Smith 27, Ziai 19, Baustert 15, Wulff 12, Hoffmann 7, also Engel 4, Nittler 2, Rupil, Palumbo and Wolzfeld
Etzella: Kennedy, 22, N. DelGado 18, Bach 9, Schroeder 8, Giver 5, also Benseghir 7, Kerger 5, Garganese, Herrmann, Eckes and Ittenbach

Score by quarters: 1st Q 28-17, Halftime 39-36, 3rd Q 62-52, Final 86-76

game details to come as soon as stats are made available...


Amicale 56 - Musel Pikes 64

It was a defensive battle last night in Steinsel. Christian Schartz only played for 3 minutes for Amicale. Schartz had his nose broken in the beginning of the game. His scoring, and most importantly his team play and assists were desperately needed. Christopher Jones stepped it up and led all scorers in the game with 20 points for Amicale. Travis DePree (201-F/C, college: Albion) added a double double with 17 points and 10 rebounds but it wasn't enough. Raul Birenbaum had 12. Sam Ney was held to 3 points and Chris Scholtes was scoreless in nearly 26 minutes of play. Musel Pikes's defense was the key keeping Amicale to 35% from 2 point range on 12 of 35 attempts and 6 of 26 from 3 point range for 24%. Amicale also struggled from the free throw line where they shot only 14 of 24. Rick Brooks had a great last season in Steinsel finishing with an 18-13 overall record.


Musel Pikes was led by former Amicale player Jeff Kirch. Kirsch scored 18 points followed by Christoper Braier with 17 points and 11 rebounds. Raoul Dentzer played well contributing 10 points before fouling out. Musel Pikes' leading scorer Samy Picard was held to only 7. Musel Pikes advances to play Sparta in the final DBBL playoff series which will be played in Dudelange.

Amicale: 18 field goals, 6 three pointers, 14 of 24 free throws, 29 rebounds, 21 fouls and 13 turnovers.
Jones 20, Depree 17, Ney 3, Scholtes, Birenbaum 12, also Schartz, Rausch 4, Kartheiser, D'Angelo, and Steinmetz.
Musel Pikes: 23 field goals, 4 three pointers, 14 for 20 free throws, 29 rebounds, 19 fouls and 14 turnovers.
Braier 17, Kirch 18, Picard 7, G. Schmit 9, Schwartz 3, also C. Schmit, Schmitz and Dentzer 10.

Score by quarters: 1st Q 11-12, Halftime 24-30, 3rd Q 38-46, Final 56-64



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MAURITIUS

16th CCCOI 2008 : Sebam and Sotrata crowned champions -by Kristian Santiago

The 16th tournament of the CCOI was under the spell of Madagascar, as both teams from the island took home the mens and the womens titles respectively.

Although they came to Mauritius with a small staff (Only eight players traveled to Mauritius for SEBAM), the two teams from the big island have shown that their players remain technically and tactically superior to others in the zone.

But before reaching the finals, SEBAM had to throw in all they got to edge Real BC Port Louis of Mauritius 73-69 in the semis.

Coach Salimshita had in Charles Rabekoto the MVP of the tourney on the squad and SEBAM already had the title secured by halftime of the final game when they led by 21 points just to extend it by the end of the third to 26 points (66-40).

SEBAM now recorded the third straight title at the CCCOI, while Real BC Port Louis beat St.Pierre of Reunion 78-75 to finish third in this year's mens competition.

The committee of the zone seven decided that 17th edition will be held in the Seychelles next year.

Final Standings

1st: SEBAM (Madagascar)

2nd: PLS Hawks (Seychelles)

3rd: Real BC Port Louis (Mauritius)

4th: Saint-Pierre BB (Reunion)

5th: Jeux d'Afrique (Mayotte)

6th: Djabal Club (Comores)



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NBA

Lakers get upset in Play-offs 2008 for the first time -by Eurobasket News
Utah Jazz reduced the gap in the series over the winner of the Western Conference Los Angeles Lakers. Jazz produced an impressive second quarter and remained in front until the end of the game. Jazz won 104:99 EnergySolutions Arena to reduce to 1-2 in the series. Carlos Boozer (6'10''-F/C-80, college: Duke) was unstoppable with 27 points and 20 rebounds. Mehmet Okur (6'11''-C/F-79) collected 22 points and 7 rebounds, while Deron Williams (6'3''-G-84, college: Illinois) posted 18 points and dished 12 assists. Kobe Bryant (6'6''-G-78) shined for the guests with 34 points, 7 assists and 6 rebounds.
The Jazz handed the Lakers their first loss of this season's playoffs and got back into the series. Lakers however opened the game at 6-0 when Derek Fisher (6'1''-G-74, agency: Priority Sports, college: UALR), Lamar Odom (6'10''-F-79, college: Rhode Island) and Pau Gasol (7'0''-F/C-80) each scored from the field. The hosts took the lead early in the second quarter and never gave it up. After 23:23 in the opening quarter Utah produced 29:20 to finish the first half at 52:43.
Los Angeles reduced a bit in the third quarter to stay closer to 7 points. Another spurt saw Lakers trailing only 95:92, but they could not tie the game. Carlos Boozer hit a hook shot over Luke Walton in the lane to put Utah up 97:92. Kobe Bryant lost the ball while falling and didn't get the foul call he wanted.
Game 4 is scheduled for May 11 in Salt Lake City.

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NIGERIA

Lagos City league: Comets declare war on Union Bank... As Dodan Warriors set to ambush Islanders -by Olusegun Ikuesan
The Sports Hall of the Lagos National Stadium will come alive once again on Sunday as four top Atlantic Conference teams of the Nigeria Basketball Federation organized premier league battle for supremacy in the 4th Lagos City league.

At 14.00 hours local time, Ebun Comets basketball club will take to the floor against Union Bank basketball club in what promises to be a must watch match going by the pedigree of both sides.

Comets coached by former Nigeria senior national team tactician, Ayodele Bakare popularly known in Nigeria basketball circle as WAKA will want to prove that its 67-41 points spanking of Dodan Warriors in a premier league pairing last weekend was not a fluke.

Comets, 2001 runner-up of the now rested FIBA Africa Cup Winners Cup will rely on the likes of guards Mike Ogheneme, Deji Egbeyemi and Orseer Ikyaator, forwards Denis Ebikoro and Mike Udo to rattle star-studded Union Bank side that parade the best crop of players at the Nigeria local scene, but have the issue of management to contend with as that cane to the fore last weekend when it failed to manage its early lead over Islanders basketball club in a premier league game.

Some of the players expected to feature for the Union Bank against Ebun Comets in Sunday grudge game includes former Ebun Comets captain, Baba JIbril, Michael Ohiero, Daniel Daudu, Daniel Iremiren, Azuoma Dike, Sola Alayande, Dare Borokini, Friday Ujoh, Chris Okoh, Joshua Agbona among other top players acquired by the banker.

And at 16.00 hours at same venue Dodan Warriors basketball club just recovering from the shock defeat to Comets will file out against Islanders coached by a former captain of the Warriors, Ogoh Odaudu.

The young Islanders coach who piloted its young side to the third place finishing in the City league last years says he has nothing to fear when his side files out against the Warriors coached by the duo of Adeka Dauda and Peter Ahmedu.

Coach Odaudu told www.fiba-africa.com in a chat that he is out to prove a point with the Islanders and hope to repeat last week smooth run when it humbled Union Bank basketball club 49-40 in a premier league game.Daniel Daudu (183-G-89)

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PANAMA

The CBS Players Draft will be held today -by Gianni Pascucci

Today at 2:00pm in the Federacin Panamea de Baloncesto (FEPABA) headquarters will be held the 2008 Players Draft of the Circuito de Baloncesto Superior (CBS League). All the seven teams registered to particpate at the 2008 edition of the tournment will attend the Draft, even if one of them (Navieros de Colon) won' t be allowed to call the players. The order of call has been decided as follows: 1st: Canguros de Parque Lefevre, 2nd: Fieras de Juan Diaz, 3rd: Toros del Chorrillo, 4th: Caimanes de Rio Abajo, 5th: Magnates de Calidonia, 6th: Colosos de Tumba Muerto. Each team will call 15 players, 12 for the active roster and 3 reserve players.

On May 12 will start the preseason camps, and May 20 will be the first day of preseason, with the tipoff of some test matches. The CBS 2008 will eventually start on saturday, May 31, at 4:00pm, with two games played at the GimnasioEPIHO de la Escuela Profesional, in Punta Pacfica.



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PARAGUAY

Sol and Sacachispas shining again -by Gianni Pascucci
In the first day of the Third Round of National League-Group A held in Ciudad del Este, Sol de America destroyed home team Estrellas del Este 109-60 and Sacachispas Encarnacion defeated Felix Perez Cardozo 98-80, with Derek Miller (188-G/F-86) leading all the scorers at 36 points and league top scorer Enzo Ruiz (193-F-88) adding 35 points. Thanks to these wins, both Sol and Sacachispas advance to the next leg of the tournment. The game of tonight, between Estrellas del Este and Felix Perez Cardozo will probably decide the third place in Group A. All the remaining games of Group B will be played in Concepcion the next weekend.

National League Standings
National Standings
GroupA
 1. Sol de Am. 7-0 
 2. Sacachispas 4-3 
 3. Felix Perez 2-5 
 4. Estrella 1-6 
GroupB
 1. America 6-0 
 2. D.San Jose 3-3 
 3. Libertad 3-3 
 4. Gigantes 0-6 


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PUERTO RICO

BSN All-Star Game on Tap tonight -by Luis Ramirez
Using a different format the BSN will hold its All- Star game tonight at the Fajardo Cariduros Arena. There will be two contests tonight, the first one will have NCAA players against BSN players, Top NCAA players such as Angel Vasallo, Walter Hodges Javy Gonzalez, Jesus Verdejo, and Jorge Bryan Diaz among others will match their skills against players such as Jorge Lebron, Alvin Cruz, Kevin Hamilton, and Christopher Vega among others. The second contest will be the Metro BSN stars against the Island BSN stars. The first game gets underway at 6:00Pm ET, and the second game is scheduled to start at 8:00PM ET. In previous years the BSN will have local BSN players play against import players and it seems that they want to return to the original intent of the all star game of having the two sections, Metro vs. Island in a much more interesting match. Players for the BSN all-star game were selected by fan voting. This year the event may be seen live by internet at www.mediasport.tv. The event will be available free of cost, so it is a good opportunity for all fans around the world to catch the event.

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RUSSIA

CSKA wins the semifinal opener -by Eurobasket News
CSKA-Dynamo 74:59

The winner of Euroleague and the defending champion of Russian Superleague opened the semifinals with the home victory. CSKA overcame Dynamo in Moscow 74:59 with 2000 spectators being present in the game.Matjaz Smodis (205-F-79) led the winners with 20 points. Ramunas Siskauskas (197-G-78) produced 18, whilst Anderesen netted 11. Henry Domercant (192-G-80, college: E.Illinois), Travis Hansen (198-G/F-78, college: BYU), Robertas Javtokas (211-C-80, agency: Interperformances, college: Arizona) and Antonis Fotsis (210-F-81) all scored 10 points in defeat.
CSKA opened the game with an early lead in the opening tip of it. After 17:10 for the hosts Dynamo had to call for a timeout, but it did not help in the first period. CSKA increased to 22:10 as the teams finished the first quarter. The second quarter was another disaster for the guests that trailed even 20 points in the middle of it. CSKA controlled the game at 39:19 and then ended up the first half with 45:25.
Dynamo started to wake up in the third quarter and in the beginning of it saw already 47:32. Henry Domercant and Antonis Fotsis closed the gap to plus 12 and brought the intrigue into the game. Dynamo won the third period 22:13, but could not stay tough any more. Matjaz Smodis and Papaloukas Theodoros posted 4 consecutive points in the end and CSKA reached the first win.
Game 2 is scheduled for tonight in Moscow.

CSKA: Matjaz Smodis 20, Ramunas Siskauskas 18, David Andersen (212-C-80) 11
Dynamo:Henry Domercant 10, Travis Hansen 10, Robertas Javtokas 10, Antonis Fotsis 10

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SERBIA

Branko Milisavljevic led Marousi Athens to the semifinals of Greek play-off -by Dragan Jankovski
Serbian PG / 2G Branko Milisavljevic (193-G-76, agency: Beo Basket) became a hero of Greek team Marousi from Athens as he had fantastic performance in play-off quarterfinals where his team knocked out Aris, who had a very good season in Euroleague reaching TOP 16. Milisavljevic netted 85 points for 3 games in quarterfinal series against Aris, destroying their hope to qualify for Euroleague 08/09. In the third decisive game Milisavljevic collected 26 points and 4 assists.

Marousi will meet Olympiakos at the semifinals.

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SEYCHELLES

16th tournament of the CCCOI - Hawks and Stars returned home -by Kristian Santiago
The teams of the Seychelles, the PLS Hawks (Men) and Anse Etoile Stars (Women) returned home after participating in the 16th Tournament of Champions Cup for Clubs of the Indian Ocean (CCCOI), which had been held in Mauritius last week.

On their arrival yesterday afternoon, members of both teams received bouquets of flowers presented by the cadet-national players.

The President of the Seychelles Basketball Federation, Jude Talma, as well as some of his colleagues were also present to congratulate the players.

The Hawks finished second in the men's competition, after losing 54-77 to Malagasy MBC Sebam who celebrated their victory for the third consecutive year.

Coached by Tony Juliette , PLS Hawks had two victories against Real SC of Mauritius (76-66) and Africa Games of Mayotte (81-76) to finish at the top of Group B.

They then beat St Pierre from Reunion by the score of 83-76 in the semi-finals.

The coach said Juliette was satisfied with the performance of his team.

'There were no easy matches in this tournament which was played at a very high level.

We had a good start against MBC Sebam in the final, but my players were tired in the third quarter. The Malagasy took advantage of it to win the match.

Despite this defeat, I am satisfied with the performance of my team', told the coach the local press.

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SLOVENIA

Nova Gorica achieve historic promotion -by Zeljko Zule
Nova Gorica defeated Parklji 80-72 and for the first time in a history will play in A-1 UPC Telemach League. Marko Marcetic (186-G-79) had 21 points, 6 rebounds and 5 assists to lead all starters in double figures. Dalibor Petrovic posted 16 points and grabbed 8 rebounds, Marko Likar netted 15 points, Dejan Cikic 11 and Rok Perko 10. Parklji led 63-58 early in last quarter but Nova Gorica scored 8 straight points and again made s 8-0 run in last 55 seconds. Dragan Pusic scored 19 points, Rade Dzambic 18 and Roman Horvat had 14 points and 10 rebounds.
Relegation Group - Final standings: Nova Gorica 4-0, Parklji 2-2, Kraski zidar Jadran 0-4.

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SPAIN

ACB Final Round of Season Drama -by Paul Nilsen


It was a truly thrilling final round of ACB action in Spain as the relegation battle to avoid the drop into LEB went into the final seconds of the season.

While supporters celebrated across the Iberian peninsula, there was a heavy black cloud hanging over one part of the country and that was in Valladolid after Javier Imbroda and his team paid a heavy penalty for a truly shocking 2008 as they lost in Murcia to lose their top flight status. There were tears all round as the home team preserved their own future in ACB with a 95-89 victory.

There had been little to choose between the teams in a nervy first half with Murcia and it was only a one shot game in the home teams favour going into the third quarter when suddenly Valladolid burst into life to take a five point lead into the last ten minutes. However the problems that have haunted them for the last few months proved to be their downfall yet again as their lack of discipline and defence conspired to give up 33 final quarter points to Murcia as their hopes of survival ebbed away.

Bulgarian big man Vasco Evitmov claimed a double-double for the visitors with 11 points and 11 boards but with French talisman Joseph Gomis effectively locked down, Murcia gave the ball to 35 year old veteran Lou Roe who nailed 25 points to save his team.

It was a different story in Granada where Great Britain star Pops Pops Mensah-Bonsu (206-F-83, agency: SportsTalent, college: George Washington) was drafted in for the home team for their survival battle in a tough game with Euroleague Final Four side Tau Ceramica but the decision paid dividends. In front of 8,000 crazy fans Bonsu became a hero after just 40 minutes as the celebrations went on into the early hours across the city.

It was an astonishing game that had a real roller-coaster of emotion for the players and fans of the hosts. They couldnt have got off to a better start as Bonsu led the charge against Tau with Granada racing into a 22-10 lead to ease the nerves. 17 points up going into the last quarter it all looked done and dusted but eventually the Basque side came to life and Tau had the nerves jangling by outscoring their opponents 34-19. Ultimately it wasnt enough and that was thanks mainly to Italian point guard Andrea Pecile and Pops Pops Mensah-Bonsu who claimed a pivotal offensive rebound in the dying seconds to secure an 89-87 win and spark scenes of wild celebration. Pecile scored 19 points and dished up 5 assists while Bonsu claimed 22 points and 9 rebounds to go with three stunning blocks.

It was a similar scene in Leon where the travelling hoards of Estudiantes fans celebrated their great escape having won their last three games of the season under Coach Perasovic to secure their survival - something that has looked wholly unlikely after a disturbing season all round. However their turbulent campaign finished on a high and as the tears of joy and relief flowed, Estu fans can look forward to a brighter future after this comprehensive 96-71 win against relegated Leon whose fate had already been sealed a few weeks ago.

The visitors took control early and dominated from start to finish to keep Leon at bay and ensure their noisy fans didnt have to suffer too much. It was an outstanding perimeter shooting display that did the work with Estu drilling a phenomenal 16 three-pointers during the game to shoot over 50% from outside. While Leon played lazy perimeter defence, they still had to make the shots - and they did.

An explosive 13-31 opening period had the result not really in question much to the relief of the side from the capital and with Larry Lewis and Sergio Sanchez in good shooting form with the latter also claiming 10 assists to be given the MVP award, it has been a fortnight of real happiness after 7 months of misery for Estu.

Their were mixed emotions in the Balearics after ViveMenorca lost their relegation must win game in overtime by 103-105 in agonising and dramatic fashion against Gran Canaria. The home supporters and Ricard Casas and his team didnt know whether to laugh or as news of Valladolid losing in Murcia filtered through while losing 88-82 in the final quarter. Casas wiped his face with a towel in relief and his side fought back to force the extra period but just couldnt round the season off with that win. Anyway, by the skin of their teeth, Menorca survived after coming third from bottom and just one place above the two relegation spots.

Mario Stojic continued his blistering form for Menorca with 27 points while Carl English scored 20 for Granca who finished in 9th spot just one place away from that coveted final play-off spot.

That position goes to Unicaja who continue to frustrate and remain inconsistent. They lost 86-90 against Ricoh Manresa in front of less than 7,000 disgruntled fans who know their team will have to really pick up their game to have any chance of getting past league winners Real Madrid in the play-offs. With Scariolo seemingly ending his association with the club perhaps his players have been affected and to finish the season with a 50-50 record with the talent available is definitely an under-par campaign.

Malaga dominated the first half with a 13 point lead at the break but just like in their previous game against derby rivals Seville, they went to sleep in the second half and were punished by the surprise team of the season in Manresa. Josh Asselin scored 27 points for the visitors while Davor Kus scored 20 for the hosts.

In the capital, a place Unicaja will visit first in the play-offs, the Whites of Madrid faced Seville and made hard work of seeing off Manel Comas and his Cajasol side. Real eventually won the game 89-81 but only because of a tremendous finish to the contest as they dominated 27-13 in the last ten minutes.

Belgian big man Axel Hervelle showed his class with a valuation of 33, the second highest of the round thanks to 24 points and 7 rebounds. He wasnt the only top performer in the game however as Greek Michalis Kakiouzis rounded off a superb season for Cajasol with a double-double at Vistalegre of 22 points and 12 boards. Real Madrid meanwhile finished the season having lost just five league games.

An outstanding performance by Marcelo Huertas led Bilbao to a 90-84 victory in their play-off dress rehearsal against Barcelona. 12,000 fans celebrated inside the Bizkaia Arena and they will be hoping that will be repeated when Bilbao play the second leg of the three game series against the Catalan giants in the quarter finals. Huertas scored 26 points and dished 7 assists as the home team picked up a confidence boosting victory.

One team certainly on a roll ahead of the play-offs is Pamesa Valencia who after their mid season injury woes are finally gathering some momentum and they will need it against play-off opponents Tau Ceramica - a team they lost to in a rare loss of late only a few weeks ago. Pamesa hosted DKV Joventut in a big game for both clubs in terms of confidence for the quarter-finals and it was the home team that picked up an 85-76 win.

Much of that was due to an astonishing third quarter defensive performance when they held a talented and free-scoring Badalona team to just 9 points. Ruben Garces had 18 points and 9 rebounds while his fellow Ruben, namely Douglas top scored with 25. Former NBA player Shammond Williams also got into the twenties with 21 points.

For Coach Reneses, his team have been a little inconsistent of late, albeit because of the high standards they have set themselves and they will face local rivals Girona in the quarters, perhaps not the game they might have liked. The experienced play-caller will know he cant afford many nights like this when none of his big guns put in a match winning performance.

Finally Girona warmed up for their series with Joventut by wrapping up an 85-69 win against Fuenlabrada who already had sand on their feet as they prepare for the summer on the beach having met their ambition of staying in the league a couple of weeks ago. Marc Gasol shows no sign of easing up with another relentless performance of 14 points and 14 rebounds to once again get the highest valuation of the week.

Check out a full review of the ACB season (in English) during June on www.badaball.com.

CAI Zaragoza promotes to ACB -by Francisco Martinez
CAI Zaragoza won yesterday the game which assure their promotion to ACB league.

The team of Curro Segura defeated CB L'Hospitalet and maths says that they will be the champion of the regular season.

The second team promoted to ACB will be determined in playoff time. THere will be quarter final series played by teams between 2nd and 9th regular season standings spots, and the four winner teams will be in the Final Four which will take place in Caceres from may-30 to june-1.


Results (stats)
BEIRASAR ROSALIA - LECHE RIO BREOGAN 64-93
ALICANTE COSTA BLANCA - CIUDAD DE LA LAGUNA CANARIAS 79-86
ALERTA CANTABRIA - CB VILLA DE LOS BARRIOS 76-73
AGUAS DE VALENCIA - MELILLA BALONCESTO 84-64
FORD BURGOS - FUNDACIO BASQUETINCA.COM 90-74
C.B. CIUDAD DE HUELVA - PALMA AQUA MAGICA 94-89
BASKET CAI ZARAGOZA - C.B. LHOSPITALET 91-64
BRUESA GBC - PLUS PUJOL LLEIDA 76-79
TENERIFE RURAL - UNION BALONCESTO LA PALMA

Best five
Chuck Kornegay (206-F/C-74, agency: Interperformances, college: Villanova)
Suleyman Drame (202-F-80)
Shalawn Miller (204-C/F-74, college: Mass.-Lowell)
Anthony Johnson (198-G/F-79, college: La-Lafayette)
Ondrej Starosta (216-C-79)

Standings - LEB Gold
LEB Gold Standings
 1. Zaragoza 27-6 
 2. Bruesa 24-9 
 3. Alicante 23-10 
 4. Leche Rio 23-10 
 5. Tenerife 19-14 
 6. Plus Pujol 19-14 
 7. Rosalia 17-16 
 8. Los Barrios 17-16 
 9. La Laguna 16-17 
 10. Burgos 15-18 
 11. Melilla 15-18 
 12. Huelva 14-19 
 13. Basquetinca 12-21 
 14. Aguas Gandia 12-21 
 15. Palma Aqua 12-21 
 16. Cantabria 11-22 
 17. La Palma 11-22 
 18. L'Hospitalet 10-23 


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TANZANIA

Dar set to start inter-cities preps -by Carlos Pereira
By Renatha Msungu

Dar es Salaam basketball teams will start training to prepare for the East and Central African Inter-cities Championship on Monday.
The championship is expected to take off from June 24-28 at Indoor Stadium and TCC Chang`ombe grounds in Dar es Salaam.
The team`s coach, Zabron Manase, said yesterday that the men`s team would train at Zanaki ground while women would train at UDP grounds.
``Currently I have 30 players in my team, 15 ladies and 15 males. The team will be later reduced to 24,` Manase said.
He said nine cities had so far confirmed to compete in the regional championship.
They are the host Dar es Salaam, Mwanza, Arusha, Nairobi, Mombasa, Kampala, Addis Ababa and Kigali.

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TURKEY

Karadag On His Way Back To M.U. Selcuk Uni -by Serdar Ortakuyu
Mutlu Aku Selcuk Uni. management is about to put an end to their head coach search to replace Mete Babaoglu and the biggest nominee is rumored to be Cengiz Karadag who started 06-07 season at Konya team as an assistant and took over the head coach seat after Hakan Yavuz's departure. Despite the financial problems Karadag has been able to take Akcakoca Poyraz to TB2L playoffs this season and is likely to complete his move back to Selcuk Uni. this week.

Okur and Turkoglu shine in NBA Play-offs -by Eurobasket News
Hidayet Turkoglu (206-F-79) spends his best season in NBA for Orlando Magic. Hidayet Turkoglu was named as the NBA's most improved player, according to a report in the Orlando Sentinel. Hidayet Turkoglu's 19.5 points, 5.7 rebounds and 5.0 assists were all career highs. He helped lead the Magic to a 52-30 record and the third seed in the Eastern Conference playoffs.
His Orlando narrowed the distance to Detroit beating them 111:86 at the Amway Arena. The Pistons received a major setback early in the game as Chauncey Billups fell awkwardly after the collision with Jameer Nelson and left the game with a strained right hamstring. He never returned to action and the absence of their leader influenced the game of the Pistons. Rashard Lewis nailed 12 points out of the last 14 points in the first half as the Magic grabbed a 54:42 lead at halftime. Lewis knocked down 33 points, collected 6 boards and issued 5 assists to lead the Magic as they coasted to an overall win in the second half. Dwight Howard provided 20 points and 12 boards for the winners. Hidayet Turkoglu ended up with 18 points, 6 assists and 5 rebounds. Richard Hamilton scored 24 points for Detroit. Tayshaun Prince secured 22 points and 7 rebounds in defeat. The Pistons remained hopeful Chauncey Billups would take part in Game 4 on Saturday.
Mehmet Okur (210-C/F-79) and his Utah Jazz reduced the gap in the series over the winner of the Western Conference Los Angeles Lakers. Jazz produced an impressive second quarter and remained in front until the end of the game. Jazz won 104:99 EnergySolutions Arena to reduce to 1-2 in the series. Carlos Boozer was unstoppable with 27 points and 20 rebounds. Mehmet Okur collected 22 points and 7 rebounds, while Deron Williams posted 18 points and dished 12 assists. Kobe Bryant shined for the guests with 34 points, 7 assists and 6 rebounds.
The Jazz handed the Lakers their first loss of this season's playoffs and got back into the series. Lakers however opened the game at 6-0 when Derek Fisher, Lamar Odom and Pau Gasol each scored from the field. The hosts took the lead early in the second quarter and never gave it up. After 23:23 in the opening quarter Utah produced 29:20 to finish the first half at 52:43. Los Angeles reduced a bit in the third quarter to stay closer to 7 points. Another spurt saw Lakers trailing only 95:92, but they could not tie the game. Carlos Boozer hit a hook shot over Luke Walton in the lane to put Utah up 97:92. Kobe Bryant lost the ball while falling and didn't get the foul call he wanted. Game 4 is scheduled for May 11 in Salt Lake City.

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UNITED ARAB EMIRATES

Al Wasl opens Asia Champions Cup in double-overtime thriller over Saba Battery -by Eurobasket News
Al Wasl, UAE -Saba Battery, Iran 116:100 2 OT

Al Wasl opened Asia Champions Cup in double-overtime thriller over Saba Battery from Iran. Emirates club was confident in the first three quarters, but then Saba Battery bounced back and tied the game after four quarters. The second overtime was the last for the latter to struggle as Al Wasl won the first game. Courtney Fields (206-F-82, college: Iona) was unstoppable with 37 points. Herve Lamizana (208-F/C-81, college: Rutgers) and Ibrahim Ahmad nailed 21points apiece, while Rashid Al-Zabi netted 18. Samad Nikkah led the way for Iran team with 29 points. Enyinn Mounike produced 28 points in defeat, whilst Mehdi Kamrani (181-G-82, agency: Huss Sport Agency) posted 20.
Al Wasl caught defending champions Saba Battery with their initial onslaught to cause the first upset. Emirates club took the lead from the very beginning and enjoyed 27:19 lead after the opening quarter. Another spurt in the second stanza led to 49:34 when the teams disappeared in the lockers. The lead was still increased for Al Wasl in the third quarter and they saw plus 16 entering the last period. Saba pulled their ranks together and began to fire back in the the fourth quarter, but with Hamed Ehadadi struggling under foul trouble the efforts of Samad Nikkah and Enyinn Mounike, well supported by Mehdi Kamrani failed to seize the initiative.
It was the best game so far in Asia Champions Cup and both teams will for sure deserve a top place.

Al Wasl, UAE:Courtney Fields 37, Herve Lamizana 21, Ibrahim Ahmad 21, Rashid Al-Zabi 18
Saba Battery, Iran: Samad Nikkah 29, Enyinn Mounike 28, Mehdi Kamrani 20



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Women News

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AUSTRALIA - Women

Lauren Jackson wins another crown -by Eurobasket News

Lauren Jackson (196-F/C-81) together with Spartak won the Final series over CSKA in Russia. This is how it was:
CSKA grabbed the first win away from home as seven players reached double digits for the winners. CSKA lost the opening quarter but then triumphed with 90:71. More than 3000 spectators came to see another thriller of the best teams of the Play-offs and even the whole Europe. Spartak felt comfortable in the opening quarter taking 25:21 advantage. CSKA tied the score only at the half time as both squads left the court having 41:41. It was expected another battle in the second half, however CSKA had another opinion. The team from Moscow bounced with 26:13 and closed the game at 23:17 in the last period. Spartak had nothing to do but to accept the loss, however tomorrow Vidnoe expects another game, another Final.
Spartak MR drew level with their archrivals CSKA in the Russian Superleague Final. CSKA quite easily claimed the win in the opening encounter of the series but the Euroleague champions struck back in the second game in Vidnoe. Lauren Jackson came up with a dazzling performance tallying game-high 34 points and 13 boards and Spartak stormed past CSKA for 1-1 draw in the series. CSKA got to a better start and held to a 21:15 lead after the first frame. But then Lauren Jackson and Diana Taurasi took over the floor. They gradually matched CSKA tempo and kept it at a striking distance throughout the second period. The breakaway for the hosts came in the third stanza as Spartak limited the visitors to 9 points and accumulated a 7-point lead before the fourth quarter. The teams flew over the court in the fourth period with the shots dropping from every corner. However Spartak were just more successful in this exchange of blows and celebrated a confident victory at the end. Diana Taurasi provided 23 points, while Sue Bird had 12 points in a winning case. Rebecca Hammon scored 26 points for CSKA. Maria Stepanova nailed 14 points and pulled down 10 boards in defeat. Spartak sank 49% from the field and committed just 4 turnovers down the stretch.
Spartak Moscow Region beat their rivals CSKA both times in Moscow to clinch 3-1 in the Final series. Spartak Moscow Region won the title and defended their previous success in 2007. Moreover Spartak Moscow Region added the title to Euroleague success and remains the Best in the continent.
In Game 3 Spartak Moscow Region had a road 81:95 win. That time CSKA struggled hard in the first half, but then Spartak Moscow Region benefit from the game due to the second half. Bird led the winners with 20 points, while Diana Taurasi netted 18. Ann Wauters ended up with 21 points and 9 rebounds in defeat.
Just an hour ago CSKA saw a disaster as Spartak Moscow Region smashed them 101:63 to win the trophy. The champion grabbed the lead from the very beginning and never looked behind. Spartak Moscow Region enjoyed 21 points advantage at the half and could celebrate the win even at that time. Another productive third and last quarters brought unexpected easy win over CSKA, that won the opener of the Final. Lauren Jackson paced all the winners with 30 points. Tatiana Shchegoleva collected 20 points and 8 rebounds, while Tina Thompson netted 19. Ann Wauters was the best for CSKA again nailing 14 points.

Taylor Penny and Harrower Kristi won bronze with UMMC. In the game for the third place UMMC beat Vologda 89:65. Taylor Penny top-scored for the winners with 19 points. Agnieszka Bibrzycka nailed 17, while Gruda and Rakhmatulina Oxana had 14 each. Sapova and Elena Volkova ended up with 12 points in defeat. UMMC won the series 3-0.



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BELGIUM - Women

Ann Wauters was step from the crown again -by Eurobasket News
Ann Wauters (194-C-80) and her CSKA is second in Russia again. Spartak Moscow Region beat their rivals CSKA both times in Moscow to clinch 3-1 in the Final series. Spartak Moscow Region won the title and defended their previous success in 2007. Moreover Spartak Moscow Region added the title to Euroleague success and remains the Best in the continent.
In Game 3 Spartak Moscow Region had a road 81:95 win. That time CSKA struggled hard in the first half, but then Spartak Moscow Region benefit from the game due to the second half. Bird led the winners with 20 points, while Diana Taurasi netted 18. Ann Wauters ended up with 21 points and 9 rebounds in defeat.
Just an hour ago CSKA saw a disaster as Spartak Moscow Region smashed them 101:63 to win the trophy. The champion grabbed the lead from the very beginning and never looked behind. Spartak Moscow Region enjoyed 21 points advantage at the half and could celebrate the win even at that time. Another productive third and last quarters brought unexpected easy win over CSKA, that won the opener of the Final. Lauren Jackson paced all the winners with 30 points. Tatiana Shchegoleva collected 20 points and 8 rebounds, while Tina Thompson netted 19. Ann Wauters was the best for CSKA again nailing 14 points.
De Mondt Anke nailed 10 points as her Perfumerias beat the defending champions Ros Casares in the Spanish Final Game 1 71:78 away from home. The latter being second after the regular season survived the series over EBE Promoc and now remains on track. Ana Montanana led the winners with 20 points and 8 rebounds. Ivanka Matic netted 19. Evanthia Maltsi and Delisha Milton-Jones top-scored with 20 points each for the hosts.
Perfumerias did not feel homesick taking 20:14 win after the opening quarter. Ana Montanana and Ivanka Matic kept the lead for her team in the second quarter as the team even increased to 9 points lead. The squads left the court for the break at 29:40.
A third quarter was a real defensive battle and Ros Casares was able to reduce to 7 points after 15:13 in it. In an opposite to the third quarter last period was 27:25 win for the hosts, but that was not enough for Ros Casares to tie the game. Perfumerias takes 1-0 in the series and is looking forward to triumph at home on May 11. The series are until two wins in Spanish Play-offs and that is why the series might be over next time.

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FINLAND - Women

INTERNATIONAL: Tiina Sten will play in Europe? -by Rauno Hurmalainen
NT F Tiina Sten (185-F-85) spent two weeks at Los Angeles Sparks (WNBA) camp in LA, but finally no contract this time. Anyway, St. John's (7,4 ppg - 3,6 rpg)
graduated will probably play next professionally somewhere in Europe? There is a lot interest and several contacts from several European countries on Sten.
Sten was invited to Sparks' camp by Coach Michael Cooper, who was pretty satisfied with her playing skills and invited her back to the camp after 1-2 seasons
in European leagues.

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GERMANY - Women

Hicran Oezen to stay in Marburg -by Moritz Korff
Hicran Oezen (169-G-81) is going to stay with BC pharmaserv Marburg (DBBL) for one more season. The 26-year-old German international scored 11.2 points per outing during the 2007-2008 campaign and served as a team captain. Also Jana Heinrich (188-F-86, college: San Diego St.), Natascha Heuser (178-G/F-82) and Marlena Schoen (168-G-87) got one year-contract extensions. Meanwhile, Karolin Holtz (188-C-86) was announced as the first newcomer to the roster of the Blue Dolphins for 08-09. The 21-year-old Post Player comes from TV 1860 Hofheim (2. DBBL South). She appeared in 22 games for the Huskies in this past season and averaged 13.9 points per game.

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HOLLAND - Women

The semifinal series are tied at 1-1 -by Eurobasket News
The series between ProBuild Lions and Amazone as well as Yellow Bike and Perik Jumpers are tied at 1-1.
ProBuild Lions lost the opener to Amazone in overtime 60:54. Judy Wright (172-G-84) paced all the winners with 17 points, 7 rebounds and 5 steals. Patricia Chukwuma (186-F/G-85) collected 13 points and 5 rebounds, while Tyler McIlwraith had 11 points and 8 boards. Gerda Heinen, Anouk Biesters and Belinda Bos (180-G-84) all scored 9 points. Rene Haynes and Jasmijn Overbeeke both contributed 8. At halftime the margin was still in tact, 24-30, and in the third period ProBuild widened the gap to 27:39. Then Amazone put up a 16-0 run and led the game to the win.
ProBuild Lions evened up the series with Amazone taking 65:47 victory at home. Nadine Boesaart (185-C-81) led the Lions with 13 points, Jinga Gosschalk added 12 and Cherie Lea contributed 11 points. Judy Wright top-scored for Amazone with 12 points and Marloes Renskers posted 11.
Yellow Bike beat Perik Jumpers 83:61 in the opener at home. It was not a difficult win for the winner of the regular season. Kooij Laura led the winners with 22 points. Roetgerink Marloes nailed 18 and Anna Vicenzetto (183-C/F-77) had 12. Perik Jumpers bounced back over Yellow Bike 71:63 in Game 2 and tied the series. Myrthe Beld (175-G-89) top-scored for the winners with 20 points, 7 rebounds and 4 assists. Sharon Beld (180-F-88) collected 17 points, 6 rebounds and 6 assists, while Marianne van der Hoek scored 11 points.

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NIGERIA - Women

Chukwuma shines for Amazone -by Eurobasket News
ProBuild Lions lost the opener to Amazone with Nigerian Patricia Chukwuma (186-F/G-85) in overtime 60:54. Judy Wright paced all the winners with 17 points, 7 rebounds and 5 steals. Patricia Chukwuma collected 13 points and 5 rebounds, while Tyler McIlwraith had 11 points and 8 boards. Gerda Heinen, Anouk Biesters and Belinda Bos all scored 9 points. Rene Haynes and Jasmijn Overbeeke both contributed 8. At halftime the margin was still in tact, 24-30, and in the third period ProBuild widened the gap to 27:39. Then Amazone put up a 16-0 run and led the game to the win.
ProBuild Lions evened up the series with Amazone taking 65:47 victory at home. Nadine Boesaart led the Lions with 13 points, Jinga Gosschalk added 12 and Cherie Lea contributed 11 points. Judy Wright top-scored for Amazone with 12 points and Marloes Renskers posted 11.

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RUSSIA - Women

Spartak Moscow Region is the CHAMPION... again -by Eurobasket News
They are the best, they are an outstanding team of the whole Europe and of course of the Russian Superleague. Spartak Moscow Region beat their rivals CSKA both times in Moscow to clinch 3-1 in the Final series. Spartak Moscow Region won the title and defended their previous success in 2007. Moreover Spartak Moscow Region added the title to Euroleague success and remains the Best in the continent.
In Game 3 Spartak Moscow Region had a road 81:95 win. That time CSKA struggled hard in the first half, but then Spartak Moscow Region benefit from the game due to the second half. Bird led the winners with 20 points, while Diana Taurasi (182-G-82, college: Connecticut) netted 18. Ann Wauters (194-C-80) ended up with 21 points and 9 rebounds in defeat.
Just an hour ago CSKA saw a disaster as Spartak Moscow Region smashed them 101:63 to win the trophy. The champion grabbed the lead from the very beginning and never looked behind. Spartak Moscow Region enjoyed 21 points advantage at the half and could celebrate the win even at that time. Another productive third and last quarters brought unexpected easy win over CSKA, that won the opener of the Final. Lauren Jackson (196-F/C-81) paced all the winners with 30 points. Tatiana Shchegoleva (193-F/C-82) collected 20 points and 8 rebounds, while Tina Thompson (188-F-75, agency: Merit Sports, college: USC) netted 19. Ann Wauters was the best for CSKA again nailing 14 points.

CSKA-Spartak Moscow Region 63:101 (15:24, 17:29, 14:27, 17:21)
CSKA: Ann Wauters 14, Nicole Powell (188-G/F-82, college: Stanford) 13, Ilona Korstine (183-G-80) 9+8 rebs
Spartak Moscow Region: Lauren Jackson 30, Tatiana Shchegoleva 20+8 rebs, Tina Thompson 19, Diana Taurasi 5+9 assists