EUROBASKET NEWS REPORT - 5/17/2008

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Men News

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ADRIATIC LEAGUE

Saso Ozbolt returns on court after knee injury -by Dragan Jankovski
After very long period guard of Union Olimpija, Saso Ozbolt (188-G-81, agency: World Sport Agency), recovered from serious knee injury. Namely, the player had last official appearance almost 18 months ago but he finally returned on the court. He played 14 minutes for Olimpija against TCG Merkator in Slovenian league scoring 6 points.

At the time when Ozbolt got injured he terminated the contract with Union Olimpija but the team promised to sign him again when he gets fully recovered and it happened in January. New contract will keep Ozbolt in Olimpija until the end of the current season.

Bosnia will take one place from Croatia for the next season ? -by Dragan Jankovski
As it was this year, Adraitic league will have 14 participants for the season 2008/2009. Five teams once again will come from Serbia. Croatia and Slovenia will be represented by 3 teams each while Montenegro will have one team in regional championship next season. Bosnia and Herzegovina, who previous season had one participant, will most probably get a wild-card for one more team.

According to the rumors there will be a battle for Adriatic league between Zagreb and second ranked team in Bosnia and Herzegovina, which possibly could be Bosna Sarajevo, Siroki Prima pivo and Igokea Partizan.

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ARGENTINA

Argentina will hold U18 american tournament -by Facundo Iatzky
FIBA Americas announced last week that Argentina will hold the either male and female U18 american tournament. The male one will be played in Formosa on July (14-18). the teams will be Venezuela, Uruguay, Puerto Rico, Mexico, Republica Dominicana, USA, Canada and Argentina. The best four will qualify to the 2009 world championship in New Zealand. On the other hand, the female tournament will be played in Buenos Aires one week later than the male one. The following teams will be looking for qualify to 2009 world championship in Tailand: Brasil, Venezuela, USA, Canada, Puerto Rico, Republica Dominicana, Costa Rica and Argentina

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AUSTRALIA

Conner Henry steps up as Perth head coach -by Eurobasket News
Conner Henry was appointed as the new head coach of the Perth Wildcats. Henry signed a two-year deal with the team. Conner Henry spent the last two seasons as an assistant coach with the Wildcats organization. Beforehand he used to work as an assistant coach at the Claremont McKenna College in California for 5 years. There he celebrated two division titles with the Stags. Last two years he spent under the guidance of Scott Fisher in Perth and was chosen among other candidates after Fisher decided to step down following the last season. Conner Henry had a rich player career as he used to play in the NBA at Houston, Sacramento, Milwaukee and Boston. Conner Henry is now in the States looking for two imports to fill in the roster.
Meanwhile there were some player movements around the NBL. The Brisbane Bullets have agreed on terms of the deal with Adam Tanner (203-C-84, college: Seward County CC). The Melbourne-born talent spent the last four seasons in the USA playing at college level. He spent two years at the Seward County Community College. There he was picked for the All-Kansas CC West Conference First Team. In 2006 Adam Tanner moved to the Denver University.
In the meantime the Brisbane Bullets continued to lose players. Dillon Boucher (196-G-75) and CJ Bruton (188-G-75, college: Indian Hills CC) were confirmed by the league to have joined the NZ Breakers. The 32-year-old Bruton would bring much needed experience for the Breakers. He won the NBL title for three times and talked about his desire to celebrate the fourth one with the Breakers. The Boomers point guard signed a three-year contract with the New Zealand outfit. Dillon Boucher has agreed on the two-year contract with the Breakers.
Brad Williamson (197-F/G-81) decided to continue his career with the Townsville Crocodiles. He signed a two-year contract with the Crocs. With 5 years of NBL experience under his belt Williamson averaged 8.5 points per game in 17 minutes in the last season with the Bullets. Brad Williamson is currently playing in the ABA's SEABL conference for the Southern District Spartans, averaging 21.3 points and 8.2 rebounds per game.

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AUSTRIA

Furstenfeld ties the Finals -by Stefan Heinrich
The Furstenfeld Panthers won game 2 on their homecourt after a close game with 97:89. Oberwart led at halftime with 50:52 and they started the second half with 5 points in a row, but a 11:0 run of the Panthers turned the game around and they won the third quarter 23:13. During the last quarter they didnt allow the Gunners to regain the lead.

Furstenfeld (97): Samo Grum (194-G/F-79, agency: VTBM/SRBM) 21, Milan Goljovic (203-F-71, agency: Globalsports/Globalevents) 20, Fraser 18, Colwell 14, Shavies 8, Sims 7, Ocokoljic 6, Dragsic 3
Oberwart (89): Jay Youngblood (196-G-84, agency: Strategic Sports, college: Kent St.) 23, Domonique Crawford (193-G-84, agency: Strategic Sports, college: Youngstown St.) 19, Johnson 13, Moric 11, Boone 10, Ochsenhofer 6, Stegnjaic 4, Artner 3

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BELGIUM

Defending champion Telindus Oostende is eliminated -by Eurobasket News
The Quarterfinals in Belgium went to the end and the league will have another champion this year. Generali Okapi Aalstar eliminated defending champion Telindus Oostende last night in overtime.
Generali Okapi Aalstar had an overtime 80:76 victory due to 11:7 in extra time. The hosts opened the game with 20:13 and then easily increased to 15 points by the halftime. Telindus BC Oostende reduced the gap after 16:22 in the third and tied the game by the end of the last period. In the extra period, Oostendes offense went cold and Aalstar took advantage to grab the game and the series. Loren Stokes (190-G-83, agency: David Lee services, college: Hofstra) led the winners with 25 points. Cantrell Damian collected 18 points and 15 rebounds, while Trevor Huffman (187-G-79, agency: Duran International, college: Kent St.) posted 12. Jerry Green (191-G-80, college: Cal-Irvine) ended up with 19 points in the losing effort.
Dexia Mons-Hainaut swept the series over Belgacom Lige Basket. Dexia had a road 84:86 win to advance to the semis. It was a back-to-back game, the teams remained on track and stayes nose to nose. Only with 1 point win in the opening period and 1 point in the last Dexia Mons-Hainaut benefit from the game. Mike Lenzly (189-G-81, college: Wofford) and Nate Reinking (183-G-73, college: Kent St.) paced the winners with 15 points each. Evans George supported them with 13 points for the win. Hopkins Brian top-scored in the game for the hosts with 27 points.

Generali Okapi Aalstar - Telindus BC Oostende 80:76 OT (20-13,22-14,16-22,11-20, 11-7)
Generali Okapi Aalstar:Loren Stokes 25, Cantrell Damian 18+15 rebs, Trevor Huffman 12
Telindus BC Oostende:Jerry Green 19, Brunner Greg 17

Belgacom Lige Basket - Dexia Mons-Hainaut 84:86(26-27,19-19,19-19,20-21)
Belgacom Lige Basket:Hopkins Brian 27, Larry Owens (201-G/F-83, college: ORU) 16
Dexia Mons-Hainaut:Mike Lenzly 15, Nate Reinking 15, Evans George 13

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BRITISH VIRGIN ISLANDS

Young Legs ring hunt begins with Bad Boys -by David Edole
By MERRICK ANDREWS, Publisher/Editor-in-Chief 15.MAY.08
Days after telling BVI NEWS that the Bad Boys will die trying for a ring ahead of the BVI Basketball Federation season that opened on Saturday, Dalvern Blyden jumped ship and left the Boys on their own as he seeks to get a coveted ring elsewhere.

During the parade of teams ahead of the league opener, Young Legs displayed what teams will be playing forRINGSas some players sported at least two. Young Legs and the Bad Boys will hook up on Saturday night for the first time after Bad Boys ousted them from returning to the championships to get another RING.

One Young Legs player told BVI NEWS that this first matchup is about sending a messagenot only to the Bad Boysbut to the rest of the league. Should they lose, Bad Boys are in jeopardy of falling out the race and some teams in its division have not even suited up as yet. The reigning senior division champs East, schooled the Bad Boys, 101-88 in Saturdays opener.

Weekend schedule:

Friday: Another Level vs All Ball. No Limit vs Peace Makers and Guns vs Latinos.

Saturday: And 1 vs Wolf pack. Off Da Chainz vs Squad Up. Young Legs vs Bad Boys.

Sunday: Full Force vs The Rams and Rebels vs Outkast

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CAPE VERDE

Santo Antao, and Fogo Finalists -by Pedro Gomes

Santo Antao Island Basketball: Fiorentina and Maritimo fights for Regional title

Fiorentina and Maritimo are the two teams that have advanced to the finals in the Santo Antao regional championship.
The teams finished in the top two positions in the regular season, with Fiorentina on top. With the regular season title secured, Fiorentina will now

try to beat Maritimo in the finals of the playoffs, to go and represent the island in the national championship.

The games will this week, and end by the end of May.


Island of Fogo Basketball: Spartak and Cutelinho in the finals

Spartak (So Filipe) and Cutelinho (Mosteiros), the two best team in the Fogo regional championship, are now battling in the finals of the playoffs (best of 5) to determined the Fogo regional champions. The regular season champion is Spartak, and Cutelinho is the runner up.
In the first game, Spartak beat Cutelinho 86 to 75, taking a 1-0 lead in the series. The second game is programmed for this weekend, in the Simao Mendes Pavilion in the city of Sao Filipe.
The championship also included the participation of Lem, and Faxa da Terra, both teams from Sao Filipe.

The regional championship began in March, and is set to finish at the end of May.
Besides the regional championship, the Fogo Basketball Association, organized other activities; such as the Opening Tournament, and theSao Filipe cup,

which Spartak won both.



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CBA

The Atlanta Krunk moves to Augusta -by Eurobasket News
The CBA team Atlanta Krunk Wolverines will move to Augusta this fall. The franchise will be given the name of the Augusta Groove and will participate in the upcoming CBA season. Team co-owner Gary Perry confirmed the relocation plans. He however admitted some minor problems that kept the event from being officially announced. He talked about his plans to alert the CBA in writing about the plans to relocate the franchise.
Meanwhile the CBA plans to hold the Caribbean Summit from May 21 through 23. The event will take place in Santo Domingo, Dominican Republic. The event is aimed at discussion of the possible CBA expansion into the Caribbean. The CBA announced its plans to explore the possibility of establishing the CBA Caribbean League. With basketball being vastly popular in the Caribbean one of the oldest professional leagues decided to take a closer look at the opportunities to capitalize on the interest and maybe make some steps towards creating a full-scale professional league in the region.

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FINLAND

KORISLIIGA: Transfer news -by Rauno Hurmalainen

Korisliiga, I-division, transfer news: Kataja (Joensuu) has signed three new Finnish players. G Jussi Eskola (189-G-87) will leave Team Componenta (Karkkila) after one season and has signed a 2-year-contract with Kataja. Eskola averaged 6,6 ppg - 1,0 rpg in 21:23 mpg and 38 contests at Karkkila. F Juho Nenonen (202-F-87) and PG Anselmi Vanjoki (193-G-88) were both members of Finnish Champion Honka (Espoo) and in the future (two years) on Kataja's roster. Nenonen averaged 4,4 ppg - 1,9 rpg in 14:36 mpg and 52 games. Vanjoki had 3,1 ppg - 0,9 rpg in 12:56 mpg and in 23 games.

Also in the I-division there is some movements going on. Anton Telih (187-G-90), 18, 192 cm, will leave YMCA Helsinki and join BC Jyvaskyla. Telih averaged 4,4 ppg - 2,8 rpg last season. BC Jyvaskyla's new Head Coach is Ilja Saralahti. Antti Raami (197-F-81), has signed with Honka (Tapiola). Raami had nice figures passed season on Visa-Basket (Helsinki) roster: 21,5 ppg - 11,0 rpg. Honka's Head Coach in I-division is Jussi Syrjanen , 25.



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FRANCE

Pro B : James Mathis extended for 2 more seasons -by Aurelien Hipp
*Very satistified with his performances, Evreux's staff has decided to extend James Mathis (198-F-84, agency: Court Side, college: Niagara)' contract for 2 more seasons. The powerful US forward posted 13.9pts and 7.4 rebounds, playing all 34 games of the regular season. Despite he couldn't make the playoffs with his team, Mathis will be part of next season's project in Evreux. 'It's an important signature for us' said coach Remy Valin'. The team ended the regular season at the 10th place.

Standings - ProA
ProA Standings
 1. Le Mans 23-7 
 2. Nancy 21-9 
 3. ASVEL 21-9 
 4. Roanne 20-10 
 5. Le Havre 18-12 
 6. Hyeres-Toulon 17-13 
 7. Vichy 17-13 
 8. Cholet 15-15 
 9. Dijon 13-17 
 10. Pau 13-17 
 11. Chalon 13-17 
 12. Orleans 12-18 
 13. Strasbourg 12-18 
 14. Gravelines 11-19 
 15. Paris-Levall. 10-20 
 16. Clermont 4-26 


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GABON

MANGA BASKET takes back the Cup of the Gabon 2008 to Port-Gentil -by Tim Ndjiki
The Cup of Gabon named 'Cup David NZOUBOU', whose trophy has been taken back by MANGA BB of MOANDA, in finale against his rival of the previous edition, STADE MANDJI of Port-Gentil, on the score of 82 to 71.
The whole of participants appreciated the elevated level of the competition and the quality of organization of the League of the Maritime Ogoou.
The only regret is the absence of clubs of the League of the estuary to this competition. We recall that at the time of the edition 2007, the two finalists had found again in half final to Moanda and STADE MANDJI had taken back it after the report to Libreville. MANGA BB follows to SOMO BB winner of the edition 2007.
MANGA BB will be the representative of Gabon this year, in African continental competition.
Final ordering after the Cup of the Gabon 2008.
- 1st MANGA BB
- 2nd STADE MANDJI
- 3rd ATOMICK BB
- 4th ASSCTG BB
- 5th IZO BB
- 6th ENGONG
- 7th AIRBALL
- 8th CAS 1987.

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HOLLAND

Rotterdam Challengers signing coach Terence Stansbury -by Fred Roggen
The old-player of EBBC Den Bosch and Upstairs Weert, Terence Stansbury become the new head-coach of Rotterdam Challengers. He is the continuator of Toon van Helfteren who left the Challengers after some problems. He started his coach-career at the Finnish Jyvaskyla and was also coach of Huima one season.
Stansbury was last season actif as coach of ASH Soleuvre in Luxembourg and therefore two seasons of Black Star Mersch also in Luxembourg.

Nick Stapleton new pointguard of Upstairs Weert -by Fred Roggen
Nick Stapleton (186-G-79, agency: Court Side, college: Austin Peay St.) become the new pointguard of Upstairs Weert. The guard concluded in 2001, his college period at the Austin Peay State University. Stapleton played last season in Germany for Dusseldorf. In 2003 Stapleton played a short period in the Netherlands at MPC Capitals in Groningen but was sent away through coach Ton Boot. He played further in Turkey, Austria, Kosovo, Germany and France.

Upstairs Weert also announced that Ramon Sendar, Nick de Graaf, Bob Keijzer, Mahrnord Martina and Jelle Esveldt do not return coming season.

Stefan Mladenovic choose for Dutch U-18 team -by Fred Roggen
17- year old Stefan Mladenovic (188-G-90) of Hanzevast Capitals has chosen to play for the Dutch U-18 team instead of that of Serbia.
He is born in Belgrad but moved with his family 12 years ago to Groningen in the Netherlands. This season he made his debut in the Dutch eredivisie for Hanzevast Capitals.
He was invited through both Serbia and the Netherlands for their U-18 team but decided to play for the Netherlands.
'I was honoured by the invitation of Serbia but I have chosen for the Netherlands because I feel me Dutch, I am living, study and play basketball here', thus Stefan Mladenovic.

Tim Blue re-signs with West Brabant Giants -by Fred Roggen
Forward Tim Blue (206-F-84, agency: Worldwide Hoops, college: Middle Tenn.St.) has reached an agreement with the West Brabant Giants to extend his contract for one year. He is the first player who has extend his contract with the Giants, the technical staff is trying to keep the starting-five together after a succesfull season. Coach Erik Braal is extremely happy that Blue has extend his contract. ' For me he was the surprise of the season, thus Erik Braal '.
Tim Blue finished the season averaging 14.5 points and 7.9 rebounds per game.

Standings - Eredivisie
Eredivisie Standings
 1. Amsterdam 31-9 
 2. Eiff.Towers 27-13 
 3. West-Brabant 27-13 
 4. M.Magix 25-15 
 5. Hanzev.Cpt 24-16 
 6. Rotterdam 23-17 
 7. Zwolle 18-22 
 8. Weert 17-23 
 9. Leiden 15-25 
 10. Aris Friesland 8-32 
 11. Den Helder 5-35 


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HUNGARY

Standings - B Division
B Standings
Places 1-10
 1. DEKE 14-3 
 2. Veszpremi 12-5 
 3. Obudai 10-7 
 4. Flextronics 9-8 
 5. SMAFC 9-8 
 6. Phoenix KK 8-8 
 7. Melo Diak 8-9 
 8. Kanizsa 5-11 
 9. Bajai FKE 5-12 
 10. Jaszberenyi 4-13 
Places 11-20
 1. B-BETON 11-6 
 2. Szedeak 11-6 
 3. Siokosar 11-6 
 4. Bp. Honved 10-7 
 5. Elite Basket 10-7 
 6. Fehervar 9-8 
 7. Univer KSE 8-9 
 8. Budafoki 8-9 
 9. Nagykalloi 6-11 
 10. Papai 1-16 


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INDIA

Indian Army starts with a winning note -by Murali Krishnan

Coimbatore, the nerve centre for Basketball in southern India, dressed up for the big moment--the Golden Jubilee All India Tournament for Nachimuthu Gounder Cup.


Conducted by the Coimbatore District Basketball Association, the tournament had been one of the regular features, which every basketball lover in the country wish to witness eagerly.

Coimbatore had the rare distinction that every single basketball player who represented the country in international tournaments played in one of the city courts or other.

The men from Indian Army displayed excellent athleticism to prove that they are too good their rivals.

After an easy opener against Bharat Sanchar Nigam Limited (BSNL), which the Army team won 52-30, the defence players tactically maneuver in to the fortress of Integral Coach Factory (ICF) and drub them in 64-54.

There was indeed a keen tussle between the winning teams Jayaram Jat (25) and losers Vinod, who contributed 22 valuable points to ICF.

Earlier, in the womens tournament for CRI Pumps Trophy on its seventh year, the Mumbai-based Western Railways humbled South Central Railway, Secunderabad in 82-41 with Lincy Joseph did the lead role for the victors by scoring 24 pts.

The All-India tournament to conclude on Thursday (15 May).

League results:

Men:
Indian Army 64 (Jayaram Jat 25) bt. ICF 54 (Vinod 22);
Customs & Central Excise 69 (Vivek 16) bt. SCR 42 (Tirupathi 12, Nihal Yadav 12);
Indian Army 52 (Jayaram Jat 14, Sirajudeen 12) bt. BSNL 30 (Ulas Jose 12);
Indian Overseas Bank 76 (Ravikumar 16, Chandrasekhar 16) bt. Central Reserve Police Force 58 (Ashfaq Khan 18).

Women:
Western Railway 82 (Lincy Joseph 24) bt. SCR 41 (Kanwaljit Kaur 18)


Ram. Murali Krishnan



IOB lifts Golden Jubilee Nachimuthu Gounder Cup -by Murali Krishnan
Coimbatore, 15 May 2008:

Aided by international star Robinson, the Indian Overseas Bank (Chennai) made a thumping victory over Customs and Central Excise (Cochin) in an exciting finals of the 50th Nachimuthu Gounder Cup all-india basketball championships at the VOC Park Corporation Sports Complex here.

On Thursday evening, the bankers garnered 78 points as against 63 scored by the custom-house men.

In the semi-finals, IOB humbled Integral Coach Factory 103-84. Thanks to Manojs splendid display (34 pts) with which Customs & Central Excise had a comfortable victory over Indian Army in the other semi-final with a score of 86-59.

Southern Railway took womens trophy

The favourites Southern Railway (Chennai) had an easy outing against Central
Railway (Mumbai) in the CRI Pumps womens tournament which the Chennai team won in 61-45.

Ram. Murali Krishnan

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ISRAEL

Standings - Premier League
Premier L. Standings
 1. Hap.Holon 19-7 
 2. Macc.T-A 17-9 
 3. Bnei Hash. 17-9 
 4. Nahariya 14-12 
 5. Ashkelon 13-13 
 6. Jerusalem 13-13 
 7. Ramat Gan 12-14 
 8. Rishon LZ 9-17 
 9. Hap.G.Elyon 9-17 
 10. Gilboa/Afula 7-19 


Round 26 First and second teams -by Netanel Dahan
Round 26 MVP:Nitzan Hanochi (190-G-86, agency: Ronsport).
First team:
Nitzan Hanochi, Nitzan scored 29 points from them 10-of-15 at the 2 points, grabed 3 rebounds, 3 fouls and passed 4 assists.
Elton Brown (206-F/C-83, agency: Elfus-Siegel Management (ESM), college: Virginia), Elton scored 21 points in just 24 minutes, took 11 rebounds drew 9 fouls, 1 blockshot, 1 assists,and added 1 steal.
Ori Ichaki (196-G-81, agency: Avi Zilberman, college: Clemson), Ori scored 27 points in 20 minutes!, took 3 rebounds, drew 4 fouls, passed 3 assists, and added 1 steal.
Jamie Arnold (203-F-75, agency: Avi Zilberman, college: Wichita St.), Jamie scored 20 points, grabed 11 rebounds, drew 3 fouls, passed 1 assists, and added 2 steals.
Timmy Bowers (188-G-82, college: Mississippi St.), Timmy scored 19 points, took 3 rebounds, drew 8 fouls, bloked 2 shots, passed 6 assists and 3 steals.

Second team:
Mike Campbell (197-G/F-75), Mike scored 23 points, took 4 rebounds, drew 7 fouls, bloked 1 shot, passed 2 assists, and added 1 steal.
Otis Hill (203-C-74, college: Syracuse), Otis scored 21 points, took 1 rebound, drew 7 fouls, passed 2 assists and added 2 steals.
Ido Kozikaro (202-F/C-78, agency: Arik Krayn Services), Ido scored 18 points, grabed 9 rebounds, drew 6 fouls, passed 2 assists and added 2 steals.
Steve Burtt (185-G-84, agency: CAA Sports, college: Iona), Steve scored 21 points in just 28 minutes, grabed 5 rebounds, drew 5 fouls and passed 3 assists.
Yuval Neimi (187-G-85, agency: Arik Krayn Services), Yuval scored 15 points, took 5 rebounds, drew 5 fouls, passed 3 assists and added 2 steals.

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ITALY

Serie A Quarterfinals Game 3 (Thursday games) -by Stefano Pini
Air Avellino-Pierrel Capo d'Orlando 89-79 (aggregate 3-0) Avellino qualified to semifinals
Air Avellino reaches Siena to semifinals and continues his amazing season. Devin Smith (196-G/F-81, college: Virginia) was unstoppable for Pierrel's defense in game 3: 35 points (10/13 by 2p.), 7 rebounds, 4 steals and 4 assists. He ends this series with an average of 28 points with 73% by 2p. Catalin Burlacu (210-C-77, agency: Court Side) helped his teammate with 14 points and 8 rebounds. Pierrel Capo D'Orlando can celebrate a great season too. Most of all, this was the last game of the carrer for Gianmarco Pozzecco (185-G-72). All the opposite fans dedicated great standing ovation to him. He is one of the most shining talent of the history of italian basketball. Pozzecco ended this series with 14,5 points and 7,7 assists.
Lottomatica Roma-Tisettanta Cantu 86-67 (aggregate 2-1) Game 4 will be scheduled next Saturday at 9pm
Lottomatica Roma had to take back the control of this series. In game 3 everyhing seemed easy since the beginning (24-13 first quarter). But Cant created trouble to Roma in the central part of the game. Lottomatica Roma reached to take a good advantage only in the last quarter. Top scorer for Roma was Rodrigo De La Fuente (200-F-76, agency: Interperformances, college: Washington), even Roberto Gabini (198-F-75, agency: Interperformances) gave his contribute with 15 points and 8 rebounds. For Cantu Herve Toure (202-F-82, agency: ACMT) wrote 14, In this series Wood is scoring 10,3 points with 20% by 3p (regular season 17,9 points, 45,3% by 3p.)

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MEXICO

Dorados take the revenge -by Gianni Pascucci
After falling to Peppers the night before, Dorados de Playa del Carmen took an immediate revenge winning the second match 100-91, coming back at the top of the table. Greg Lewis (198-F-78, college: Winthrop) was the game MVP, with 33 points for Dorados. Aluxes, instead, did not take any revenge, falling again to Leopardos, this time 80-102. Eric Martin (197-F-76, college: Cincinnati) was the game best scorer with 29 pts, followed by Reggie Jordan (193-G-68, college: N.Mexico St.) at 20. Eric Carr (200-F-71, college: Penn St.) tried to shoulder Aluxes, but it wasn' t enough, even because Tomas Rios (175-G-84), the other best player of Cancun, was expelled together with Nick Jones (190-G-81, college: UCSB) at the beginning of the second half. Aluxes stay at the bottom, yet without any win.

Standings - Lower Leagues
Other Standings
CIMEBA Northern
 1. Cuervos 0-0 
 2. Aztecas 0-0 
 3. Chamanes 0-0 
 4. Titanes 0-0 
CIMEBA Southern
 1. Coras 0-0 
 2. Caudillos 0-0 
 3. Indios 0-0 
 4. Guerreros 0-0 
Liga del Sureste
 1. Dorados 6-3 
 2. Peppers 6-4 
 3. Leopardos 5-3 
 4. Marineros 2-3 
 5. Aluxes 0-6 


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MONTENEGRO

Buducnost and Mogren in Final -by Dragan Scepanovic
Semi - Final games 2 Round :

ABS PRIMORJE - BUDUCNOST 75-94 (18:17,17:24, 18:19, 22:34)
IGALO - Sport ceneter in Igalo.Spect: 400. Reff: Vojinovic(Niksic), Dragojevic i Sundic (Podgorica).
ABS PRIMORJE: G. Bulatovic,Radovanovic 20 (4-4), Boricic 16(4-3), Lucic,Milan Stojanovic (191-F/G-83), Komatina14 (2-0), N. Bulatovic 5 (2-2),Bacovic, Vujovic 12 (6-2), Kabine,Goran Pejovic (203-F-77), Gojsina 8 (4-4).
BUDUCNOST: Otasevic 10 (2-1), Micov 13 (7-7), Popovic 8, Gordic 8 (8-6), Bjelica 5, Sehovic, Markovic 4 (4-2), Maras 14 (4-3), Dasic 6 (1-0), Dragicevic 26 (3-2), Sutulovic.

NIKSIC-MOGREN 67-73 (16:19,14:15, 18:16, 19:23)
NIKSIC - Sport center in Niksic. Spect. 500. Reff: Jokic, Sutulovic(Podgorica), Lepetic (Herceg Novi).
NIKSIC: Kastratovic 15 (2-1),Nikola Djokovic (188-G-89), Filip Barovic (205-F-90) 2, Nemanja Vranjes (188-G/F-88) 6(2-2), Ma. Kuveljic 17 (6-6), Mi,Kuveljic, Djurkovic 20 (11-4),Goran Gajovic (199-G-88) 2,Nikola Pavlicevic (192-G-88) 2, Vladimir Masulovic (212-C-85),Vukotic 1 (4-1), Sturanovic 2.
MOGREN: Stefanovic 8 (4-3), Sinisa Tepavcevic (201-F-87) 2 (2-2), Palalic 3,Mitrovic, Vujicic,Zarko Dragicevic (188-G-81) 3(2-1), Boskovic 2 (3-0), Subotic 7 (3-1), Vasic, Boris Lalovic (206-C-81) 12 (6-6),Smiljanic 20 (8-7), Samir Leric (204-F/C-74) 16 (2-2).

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NBA

San Antonio forces the decider -by Eurobasket News
San Antonio survived the 6th game of their Western conference semifinal series against New Orleans and forced the 7th game on Monday. Emanuel Ginobili (6'6''-G-77, agency: Interperformances) scored 25 points, while Tim Duncan (6'10''-F-76, college: Wake Forest) nailed 20 points and 15 boards as the Spurs overcame the Hornets 99:80 at the AT&T Center. The Spurs faced elimination for the first time since 2006 when they were down 1-3 against the Dallas Mavericks. The defending champions survived the threat and routed the visitors to square things up at 3-3. Chris Paul (6'0''-G-85, college: Wake Forest) dropped 21 points and added 8 assists for the Hornets. David West this time was limited to 10 points and left the game early in the fourth period with sore back. Tony Parker nailed a jumper late in the first quarter to put the Spurs up 19:17 and the hosts never looked back again. San Antonio enjoyed a 24-point advantage throughout the game. The Spurs shot 49% from the field, while limiting the visitors to 41% accuracy. The home side also outrebounded their opponents 45:40. The Spurs grabbed a 36:23 lead after the first period but New Orleans never said die. They trimmed the deficit to 7 points at halftime and kept mounting the pressure early in the third stanza. The visitors stayed close till the final minutes of the frame but than the Spurs could not convert a single field goal in the final 4 minutes of the frame and San Antonio cleared off to a safe distance. Tyson Chandler (7'1''-C-82) came up with 14 points and 6 boards, while Predrag Stojakovic had 13 points in defeat. Tony Parker scored 15 points and Ime Udoka contributed 13 for the winners.

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NEW ZEALAND

Taranaki stays in tight playoff race -by Eurobasket News
The Dynamos Taranaki joined Auckland at 6-6 record and the sixth spot in the NBL ladder. They overcame the Canterbury Rams 98:84 in New Plymouth yesterday to stay in the playoff picture. The team celebrated the 100th game of point guard Ben Jeffrey with an overwhelming victory over the Canterbury Rams to go 50% wins in the season. Link Abrams (198-F-73) provided 21 points and 12 boards to pace the Dynamos to an important victory. Taranaki got to a better start at the TSB Stadium and easily ran away in the starting frame. They accumulated an 18-point cushion after the frame and Canterbury looked hapless at the moment. The things hardly changed in the second term as the hosts stretched the gap to as many as 23 points by halftime. The Rams failed to reignite the intrigue after the long break and Taranaki cruised to their 6th win in the season. Keith Salscheider (196-G/F-82, agency: Sports Plus International, college: San Diego Chr.) provided 18 points for the hosts. Tony Rampton (213-C-76, college: Iowa St.) had 14 points, while his younger brother Damon Rampton (206-F-76, college: Morningside) added 12 points for the winners. Jeremy Kench (184-G-84) led Canterbury with 26 points and 10 boards. John Whorton (205-C-78, college: Kent St.) produced 14 points and Joey Harrell (204-F-85, agency: 540 Sports) had 13 in defeat. The Rams continue their Round 12 schedule against the league leaders Waikato on the road tomorrow. Taranaki await the Pistons at home on Sunday.

Standings Men
NBL Standings
 1. Waikato 12-2 
 2. Wellington 10-4 
 3. Harbour Heat 9-5 
 4. Nelson 8-6 
 5. G&H Hawks 7-5 
 6. Taranaki 6-6 
 7. Auckland 6-6 
 8. Manawatu 3-9 
 9. Canterbury 3-11 
 10. Otago 2-12 


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PARAGUAY

National League Group B restarts tonight -by Gianni Pascucci
The first leg of the National League will end this weekend in the new Arena of Concepcion, where the teams of the 'Group B' will play their last three games. America de Pilar is the only team yet qualified for the next phase, but will try to end at the first place to gain the additional point in the standiings. America will meet for first Deportivo San Jos, that will be under a new coach, Eduardo Pfleger , hired last week. Home team Gigantes will meet Libertad and hope to prevail in front of its fans. In the time between the two games of tonight the Arena 'Estadio de la Liga Concepcionera de Bsquetbol' will be officially inaugurated by the local Autorities.

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PHILIPPINES

Standings - PBA Fiesta Conference
PBA Standings
 1. Red Bull 7-2 
 2. Coca-Cola 6-3 
 3. Talk N Text 6-3 
 4. Sta Lucia 5-3 
 5. Air21 4-4 
 6. Magnolia 4-4 
 7. Purefoods 3-4 
 8. Alaska 3-6 
 9. Welcoat D. 3-6 
 10. Ginebra 1-7 


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PORTUGAL

Porto grabs 2-1 in the Final -by Eurobasket News
FC Porto is now 2-1 in the best-of-seven Portuguese League finals. The home game against Ovarense saw a tough campaign for 72:69 win. Porto started confident, but could hardly keep the score for good. Julian Terrell (206-F-84, college: Vanderbilt) paced Porto with 23 points and 10 rebounds. Nuno Marcal (205-F-75) added 15 points, while Joao Figueiredo (183-G-79) posted 13. Greg Stempin (203-F-79, agency: Duran International, college: Toledo) top-scored for the guests with 20 points and 10 rebounds.
Joao Figueiredo helped Porto start the game with a 7-0 and later a 15:2 advantage. The home side had 23:12 when the teams finished the opening quarter. Ovarense bounced back with 1-12 however still trailed in the end of the first half, 38:26.
Porto produced 9-2 run in the beginning of the third period and had 47:30 advantage. The game was almost done, but not for the visitors. Thay came back to the game with 15-4 to tie the score at 69:69. It was Greg Stempin who tied the game with 72 seconds remaining. FC Porto stayed cool and did not allow the guests to taste the win. Julian Terrell and Joao Joao Figueiredo sealed the hosts win for 72:69.

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PUERTO RICO

Carolina Giants Rout Bayamon Cowboys -by Luis Ramirez
It was over right from the 1st quarter as the Giants crushed the Cowboys, 31-16. In the 2nd quarter the Cowboys could not buy a basket as they would only score 7 points in this quarter to end the half down big, 52-23. The Cowboys just couldn't find the way to get into the game and midway in the 2nd half Coach Cintron of Bayamon emptied his bench to give his regulars a rest for the night. For Carolina, Ebi Ere (195-G/F-81, college: Oklahoma) scored 18 points followed by Alejandro Carmona with 16 points. For Bayamon, Florentino Valencia (196-F-85, agency: Paris Global Sports, college: Toledo) scored 14 points followed by Gustavo Salgado with 10 points. This best 2 out of 3 series will continue on Saturday when the Giants visit the Cowboys at Bayamon.

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ROMANIA

Players abroad -by Eurobasket News

Air Avellino and Catalin Burlacu (210-C-77, agency: Court Side) reached semifinals and continue its amazing season. Devin Smith was unstoppable for Pierrel's defense in Game 3 nailing 35 points and making 7 rebounds, 4 steals and 4 assists. He ends this series with an average of 28 points. Catalin Burlacu helped his teammate with 14 points and 8 rebounds.

The regular season was also outstanding for Air as the team finished with 23-11 record. Being now the second team to reach semis is a good sign to prove even more.
Virgil Stanescu (207-C/F-77, agency: Interperformances, college: S.Alabama) and his Unics did not advance to the semifinals in Russia. Ural Great became semifinalist that was not expected by many specialists in Russia. With 1-1 in the series the team from Perm grabbed the ticket to the semis after a road win in Kazan. A 12:19 in the first quarter was fatal for the hosts that could not recover later in the game. Tiny victories in the second half sent Ural Great to the Play-offs semifinals where they will meet Khimky. Ralph Biggs led the winners with 21 points and 5 rebounds. Brent Wright poured in 19 and Andrew Wisniewski had 14. Romanian Virgil Stanescu and Dusko Savanovic produced 14 points in the losing clause.



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SERBIA

Igor Mijailovic joins Mega Aqua Monta -by Dragan Jankovski
Point guard Igor Mijajlovic (192-G-84) moved from Masinac Kraljevo to another participant of Serbian A league Mega Aqua Monta from Belgrade.

Mijajlovic spent previous 3 years in Masinac but he was not able to play the entire season 07/08 because of knee injury. He also was a member of Serbian University Team which won the silver medal on World University Championship in Bangkok on summer 2007. Before Masinac, Mijajlovic was member of local team from Belgrade BC Drvomarket Zemun.

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SLOVENIA

Friday's press conference before The Half Finals -by Jan Flac
Union Olimpija will play against Zlatorog Lako at 16.30 in Ljubljana and Krka against Helios at 20.00 in Domale. Second games will be played on Tuesday and Wednesday and third eventually on Saturday.

On the press conference before the half-finals coach Aleksandar Dzikic of Union Olimpija was careful with his predictions concerning the game, saying they will try to prevent Zlatorog from playing their typical game. Olimpija wants to leave a much better impression after this game than they did after the last one with Helios.

Damjan Novakovic, head coach of Zlatorog, said the team lost their big emotional charge in the previous games, also against Olimpija. He sees oportunity to win in Olimpija's underestimation of his team and says his team will have to play with more than 100%.

Zoran Martic of Helios is realistic, but optimistic before the game with Krka, as his team stays cool after the win against Olimpija in the last match and does not have any problems with injuries. They are prepared on the tough series through which they want to reach finale.

Rade Mijanovic, coach of Krka, thinks about Helios as a favourite, not only in this game, but also in this series. Although the team accomplished all the goals for this season, they have a moral commitment to do their best and play for their fans, sponsors and club.

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SOUTH KOREA

6 Days left To Apply For KBL Draft Camp -by Rick Ross
The Deadline is May 22nd and all applications must be entered by then for the
Up and coming Korean Basketball Draft Camp,

This is an invited-players-only pre-draft camp.
KBL will screen all the application documents at the beginning of
June and players that are invited for the pre-draft tryout will be informed in the middle of June.

Click Here For Application:
http://www.kbl.or.kr/english/english_01.asp

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TANZANIA

Eight Cities Register for East And Central African Tourney -by Carlos Pereira
by Majuto Omary

Eight cities have confirmed playing in the East and Central African inter-cities basketball championships scheduled to take place from June 24 at Dar es Salaam's National Indoor Stadium.

The President of the East and Central Africa Inter Cities Basketball Federation, Simon Msoffe named the cities as Nairobi, Kampala, Bujumbura, Kisumu, Kinshasa, Lubumbashi, Lusaka and Mombasa.
Msoffe said more teams were expected to enter the championships before the deadline set for the end of this month.
'There are several more cities that have expressed their interest in competing in the championships and we expect them to confirm their participation in the next few days,' he said.

Dar es Salaam and Nairobi are the only cities that have confirmed competing in both the men's and women's events.
The rest of the cities will send their men's teams.
Msoffe said, however, that the organisers expected more teams to enter their women's teams as well before the entry deadline.
He added that the inter-cities tournament had grown over the years to be one of the most important basketball events in the region.
Basketball Dar es Salaam (BD) has selected its provisional men's and women's teams for the championships.

The men's squad includes Frank Kusiga, Mohamed Yusuf, Gerald Baru, Filbert Mwaipungu, Ashraf Haroun , Frank Majura , Francis Mlewa , Jacob Marenga, Edmund Pastory, and Mohamed Ally 'Dibo'.
Others are Abdallah Ramadhani, Charles Makene, Frank Simkoko, Alfonce Kusekwa, George Tarimo, Mkumbo Mgendi, Claudia Kisanko, Godfrey Chrisant, Tumsifu Apollo, Obote Mwambongo, Gilbert Batungi and Alex George.
The team will prepare for the championships under coaches Bahati Mgunda and Dais Makula.

The women's team's comprises Lucy Augustino, Evodia Kazinja, Khadija Kalambo, Amina Ahmed, Elizabeth Masenyi, Zakia Kondo, Mary Kimiti and Faraja Malawi.
Others are Ester Nelson, Lulu Joseph, Dolita Mbunda, Neema

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TURKEY

Besiktas wins the first semi-final match -by Onur Decani

Besiktas ColaTurka Istanbul have won the first semi-final match against Turk Telekom Ankara..Besiktas ColaTurka Istanbul won 87-77 against Turk Telekom Ankara in Akatlar Arena , Istanbul and tied the score into the series to 1-1. Besiktas ColaTurka Istanbul showed a great performance in the last period and have won the match that have been 10 points down once. In the 1st period both teams showed good performance with consecutive baskets and the score at the end of the period was 22-20 for home side. In the second period Turk Telekom Ankara scored 23 points while , Besiktas ColaTurka Istanbul scored 18 and Turk Telekom Ankara was 43-40 ahead at the end of the first half . Besiktas ColaTurka Istanbul scored 2 points more than Turk Telekom Ankara in the 3rd period so Turk Telekom Ankara was 1 point ahead. The last period was the time that Besiktas ColaTurka Istanbul showed their play and they were 10 points ahead when just a few seconds were taking thwe game to the end so the result at the end was 87-77 .

Even Preston Shumpert (198-G-79, college: Syracuse) scored just 2 points in the 1st half , he scored 19 in the 2nd and became the Man of the Match , with his 21 points . Sandro Nicevic (210-C-76, agency: Beo Basket) scored 16 points , same as the playmaker Brian Chase (178-G-81, college: Virginia Tech).

In the Turk Telekom Ankara side the best scorer was Chris Williams (199-F/G-80, college: Virginia) who scored 18 points , followed by Khalid El-Amin (178-G-79, agency: Beo Basket, college: Connecticut) who scored 17.

The second match of the series will be played in Ankara on May , 19.




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U.S.VIRGIN ISLANDS

Duncan helps halt West -by David Edole
By Dan McCarney
SAN ANTONIO -- After watching New Orleans forward David West savage the Spurs for 38 points in Game 5, San Antonio Coach Gregg Popovich apparently decided enough was enough.

Popovich eschewed the overmatched tag team of Fabricio Oberto and Kurt Thomas and saddled All-NBA defender Tim Duncan (208-F-76, college: Wake Forest) with the responsibility of slowing West down.

West had little trouble locating open shots during Game 5. But West was never able to establish any rhythm against the 7-foot Duncan, scoring just 10 points on 4-of-14 shooting before leaving with a back injury.

'Timmy did a good job defensively,' Popovich said. 'David didn't shoot it very well tonight. Sometimes that happens. It was a combination of that and Timmy playing well.'

Despite his defensive pedigree, Duncan typically doesn't draw such assignments. Instead, Popovich prefers to deploy him as more of an anchor, free to cheat off lesser threats and dispense help to teammates.

On Thursday night, however, Duncan spent virtually the entire game focused solely West.

It was simple, fundamental defense that did the job. When West tried to isolate, Duncan moved his feet and kept West from driving to the basket. When West pulled up for a mid-range jumper, Duncan got a hand in his face.

No highlight-reel blocks, no flashy steals. In other words, typical Duncan.

'He played great,' Spurs guard Tony Parker said. 'We did a much better job guarding him, not giving him anything easy.'

At one point early in the third quarter, Duncan beat the quicker West, who is 6-9, to the spot, drawing a charge for West's fourth foul. West boiled over on the ensuing trip up court, earning a technical.

Of even more consequence, West aggravated his back injury and was helped to the locker room in the fourth. Spurs reserve Robert Horry, who delivered the blow that injured West, left the arena without speaking to reporters. It was Horry whose hip-check sent Phoenix guard Steve Nash into the scorer's table during last season's playoffs, leading to a minor skirmish that resulted in a one-game suspension for Suns star Amare Stoudemire. The Spurs won that series 4-2.

'He took a pretty good shot in the back,' Hornets Coach Byron Scott said. 'It's probably a good thing Game 7 is on Monday. It'll give him a chance to get healthy.'

ILL TIDINGS: The Spurs are 2-6 all-time and 1-1 in the Duncan era in Game 7s.

1974 ABA first round: Lost to Indiana 86-79; 1976 ABA semifinals: Lost to New York 121-114; 1979 Eastern Conference semifinals: Beat Philadelphia 111-108; 1979 Eastern Conference finals: Lost to Washington 107-105; 1981 Western Conference semifinals: Lost to Houston 105-100; 1990 Western Conference semifinals: Lost to Portland 108-105 (2 OT); 2005 Finals: Beat Detroit 81-74; 2006 Western Conference semifinals: Lost to Dallas 119-111 (OT).

PRO REPORT-LATINO STYLE -by David Edole
Virgin Islander Darnell Miller (195-G-82, college: W.Georgia) featured on Basketdominicano.com website. As the new import player for San Sebastin, Miller posted excellent numbers in his dbut in the Baloncesto Superior de Moca. Miller netted 24 points and dished out 13 assists in a win over La Cancha. Miller played with the Club Cupes of Santiago and showed excellent vision by leading the Red Empire to the finals.

CK dishing out dimes
Carl Krauser (188-G-81, college: Pittsburgh) had a big game of 17 points and 15 assists to lead Guyana Giants over Panthers of Miranda, 96-91, Wednesday night in the Venezuelan Professional Basketball League of Basketball (LPB). The Giants (7-25) has won two of their last three games with Krauser at the point and has another winnable game when they play Tachira tonight (Friday).


PUERTO RICO
Jameel Heywood (198-F-77, agency: Paris Global Sports, college: Oklahoma) and Los Leones de Ponce visit los Cariduros de Fajardo tonight with the winner advancing to the Super Six. Both teams won their respective home games but Fajardo has home court advantage. The game can be seen live on TUTV at 7:35pm tonight.

Ja Ja Richards (207-C-75, agency: EM-PA, college: Loyola, IL) and Humacao Grises season came to an end after losing to Bayamon, 91-100, Tuesday night. Humacaco played on back to back nights after defeating San German, 91-89 on Monday. Humacao finished the season at 17-17. Richards averaged six points and three rebounds in the Reto games.

The first game of the Super Six kicks off tonight with a great match up, Kevin Sheppard (182-G-79, agency: Paris Global Sports, college: Jacksonville) and Guaynabo Conquistadors take on Larry 'El Jefe' Ayuso and Santurce Crabbers. Sheppard had a great regular season and spotted the norms of 15 points and four assists a game.
In the Super 6 each team will play five series of three games against the other semifinalists. The series of three gives two points to the winner of each game and a point for winning the series. A team can obtain to a maximum of seven points (6 points and a point extra for winning the series) and a minimum of three. The two teams with the most points advance to the Chrysler Final.

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VENEZUELA

Stats Leaders - LPB
LPB Stats Leaders
Points Per Game
K. Capers (Gat) 19.4
Washington (Guai) 19.3
J. Vargas (Tro) 18.3
A. Flores (Gat) 16.4
V.D. Diaz (Coc) 15.5
Rebounds Per Game
A. Sucre (Mar) 9.4
T. Aguilera (Tro) 7.9
A. Flores (Gat) 7.1
L. Bethelmi (Coc) 6.6
E. Brock (Gua) 6.6
Assists Per Game
C. Cedeno (Guai) 5.6
E. Mijares (Gat) 5.4
M. Osimani (Tro) 5.4
G. Vargas (Pan) 4.8
R. Guevara (Mar) 4.3
Steals Per Game
E. Mijares (Gat) 3.9
C. Cedeno (Guai) 3.6
H. Guillent (Gua) 3.4
H. Salcedo (Gai) 3.3
M. Osimani (Tro) 2.9
Blocks Per Game
M. Bortz (Tro) 1.7
M. Marriaga (Gai) 1.5
E. Brock (Gua) 1.3
L. Bethelmi (Coc) 1.2
H. Bayona (Guai) 1.0
2FGP
L. Bethelmi (Coc) 68.0%
J. Vargas (Tro) 61.0%
H. Salcedo (Gai) 60.0%
A. Sucre (Mar) 59.0%
M. Dumont (Pan) 59.0%
3FGP
L. Cappare (Tro) 51.0%
Dominguez (Gig) 47.0%
C. Morris (Tach) 45.0%
J. Vargas (Tro) 42.0%
T. Aguilera (Tro) 40.0%
Free Throws
L. Wallace (Tro) 96.0%
V.D. Diaz (Coc) 89.0%
M. Osimani (Tro) 82.0%
K. Capers (Gat) 81.0%
Washington(Guai) 80.0%


Standings - LPB
LPB Standings
 1. Trotamundos 28-5 
 2. Guaiqueries 19-11 
 3. Gatos 19-11 
 4. Cocodrilos 19-12 
 5. Marinos 18-14 
 6. Gaiteros 18-14 
 7. Guaros 12-21 
 8. Dep.Tachira 11-20 
 9. Panteras 8-25 
 10. Gigantes 7-26 


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WBA

The Majic are making up their roster -by Gianni Pascucci
The Buford Majic is preparing for the 2008 season in the World Basketball Association and getting off on the right foot by announcing the signing of three local stars, Buford High Grad Jakirra Millsap (6'0''-G), former State of Georgia Mr. Basketball, Wayne Arnold (6'4''-G-84, college: Tennessee St.) and Ex-Dacula standout B.J. Puckett (6'9''-F-83, college: Clayton St.). The team had yet signed Lee Burrell (6'2''-G), he too out from North Georgia and announced that its home games will be played at Bogan Park Gymnasium, Buford, Georgia. Some weeks ago, the Majic had called in the League Draft the players Jacob Frazier, F, 6'5', from the University of Mobile, Thomas Hearst, C, 6'9', from Jarvis Christian, Jarred Jackson, G, 6'3', from Lander University, Ricky James, G, 6-3, from Trevecca Nazarene and Carl Johnson, G/F, 6'5', from Livingstone. There are rumors that another top player, Yandel Brown (6'0''-G, college: Columbus St.), could join the team soon. The Head Coach is Lionel Garrett . To sum up, the Majic second season roster is almost ready

Standings
WBA Standings
East Division
 1. Cast.-Baseline 0-0 
 2. Marietta S. 0-0 
 3. Memphis B. 0-0 
West Division
 1. Buford M. 0-0 
 2. Mississippi HH 0-0 
 3. Decatur CK 0-0 
 4. Tri-State 0-0 




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Women News

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CHINA - Women

China outguns Poland in friendly -by Eurobasket News
China - Poland 91:72

Chinese National team continued the string of friendly games as the part of preparation for the upcoming Olympic Games. The team has already played 8 games and was victorious in seven of them. China won the Good Luck Beijing tournament earlier this month beating the USA team in the Final. This time China faced Poland in Wuxi, Southeast China. The hosts dominated the game as they used a 6:0 run to step in front late in the first period. China led 13:9 and later stretched the gap to double figures. Polish side struggled to come closer and trailed by as many as 12 points at the start of the second half. The visitors trimmed the gap to 9 points late in the third stanza but China controlled the pace and kept Poland at bay. The home team stepped on the gas once again in the fourth stanza and coasted to an overall win at the end. Miao Li Jie provided 20 points to lead the charge. Nan Chen (197-C-83) and Zhang Xiaoni (195-C-83) scored 18 points apiece in a winning case. Chen Xiaoli (193-C-82) netted 12 points for the winners. Monika Krawiec (172-G-84) led Poland with 19 points. Dorota Gburczyk (188-F-79) produced 10 points in a loss. China and Poland played at the Olympic Games in Sydney and Chinese team celebrated an 88:74 victory then. The teams will play two more games. The second and the third encounters are scheduled for tomorrow and Monday in Huizhou and Jiyuan respectively.

China: Miao Li Jie 20, Nan Chen 18, Zhang Xiaoni 18, Chen Xiaoli 12
Poland: Monika Krawiec 19, Dorota Gburczyk 10

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FIJI - Women

Whippy in US for Mickealars Big Day -by Eurobasket News
National women's basketball coach Michael Whippy will name his final team for the Beijing Olympic qualifying tournament in Spain next week. Whippy is in the United States to attend his daughter Mikaelar's graduation at Long Island University this week. Whippy is expected to join the national team in their preparation for the qualifying tournament next week. Basketball Fiji secretary Fanny Simpson said Whippy would name the 12 players when he returns from USA.
'We will have training for the players in the squad and their performance will be monitored. 'The five overseas based players Valerie Nainima (165-G-86), Mikaelar Whippy (173-G-86), Helen Rodan, Letava Whippy (Aust) and Bulou Tuisue (NZ) will join the squad next week. 'We are impressed with the performance of the local players in training,' said Simpson. 'They have the ability of playing at International level and most of them will be considered for the qualifying tournament.'
The National side has been pooled with host Spain and Brazil for the tournament that will start next month. The pool winner will earn a spot in the Olympic Games that will be held in Beijing, China in August.
Courtesy of: www.sun.com.fj

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FRANCE - Women

LFB Stats Leaders
LFB Stats Leaders
Points Per Game
1 Mosh, Arras 19.4
2 Davenpo, Challes 16.1
3 Williams, Mondev. 15.6
4 Basko, Montpellier 15.4
5 Lelas, Monrenx 15.0
Rebounds Per Game
1 Stansbu, StAmand 9.8
2 Butler, Clermont 9.2
3 Neaves, Calais 9.0
4 Jackson, Challes 8.5
5 Thomas, Arras 8.5
Assists Per Game
1 Aubert, Mondeville 8.1
2 Wambe, Villeneuve 6.1
3 Pinto, Montpellier 5.1
5 Sharp, Pays d'Aix 4.3
4 Dumerc, Bourges 4.6
Steals Per Game
1 Moore, St Amand 3.7
2 Luptakova, Challes 2.5
3 Cibert, Calais 2.3
Blocks Per Game
1 El-Gargati, Mondev 1.1
2 Davenport, Challes 1.1
3 Moeggen, Tarbes 1.0
2FGP
1 Davenpo, Challes 64.0
2 Mame, Reims 63.5
3 Dijon, Montpellier 63.2
3FGP
1 Ivancevic, Arras 55.0
2 Moeggen, Tarbes 50.6
3 Dijon, Montpellier 50.0
Free Throws
1 Snell, Bourges 97.4
2 Savasta, Tarbes 93.2
3 Pinto, Montpellier 90.0


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GREECE - Women

Maltsi won the League in Europe -by Eurobasket News
Evanthia Maltsi (180-F-78) won the Trophy with Spanish Ros Casares. The opener of the two best teams in Spain was held in Valencia and saw a loss of Ros Casares. The defending champions could not start the home campaign with a positive result and lost to Perfumerias 71:78. 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 and Mondt posted 10. Erika De Souza posted 6 points and made 10 rebounds. 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.
Erika De Souza collected 5 points and 10 boards in game 2 when Ros Casares had a road 69:78 win to tie the series at 1-1. Katie Douglas was unstoppable with 30 points and 9 rebounds last night for 74:52 win in Game 3. Delisha Milton-Jones nailed 14, while Erika De Souza collected 11 points and 13 rebounds. Clara Bermejo ended up with 14 points in defeat, whilst Ivanka Matic and De Mondt Anke produced 12 apiece.
It was a shocking start for the guests that could stay on track with the hosts in the beginning of the game. Ros Casares suggested 28 points in the first 10 minutes and received 12 from Perfumerias Avenida. The latter realized the mistakes in the first period and had an outstanding defense in the second. The visitors left the champions with only 6 points in the period and reduced to 34:25 at the halftime. Montanana and De Mondt Anke tried hard for Perfumerias Avenida and cut the deficit to 44:39. Katie Douglas was not happy with that and after her 4 points the score was 56:43. In the last period Ros Casares not only kept the score for good, but increased the lead in the period. Last quarter saw 16:13 for the hosts and 72:56 as a total.
Ros Casares could enjoy the season so much, but of course desired more in Euroleague. After 10-0 in the Group stage the team lost the Quarterfinal series. That time Czech champions Gambrinus beat the odds and celebrated a tough 75:69 road win over Ros Casares to claim the last available spot in the Euroleague Final Four. Gambrinus were on verge of losing the series after falling short to Ros Casares in the first game of the series. But the Czech outfit recovered and struck back winning back-to-back encounters and came from behind to book the Final Four birth.

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ITALY - Women

First market moves -by Carlo Grilli
Two weeks after serie A1 end, market is moving. Pozzuoli signed Zuleira Aties (190-F-80) from Hungarian BSE; Taranto confirmed superstar Rebekkah Brunson for the next campaign, leaved coach Corno and acquired Megan Mahoney (183-F-83, college: Kansas St.) from Parma, Suzy Batkovic (193-C-80) from UMMC Ekaterinburg and Ilisaine David (191-F/C-77) from Faenza. Faenza and Venezia traded players: Francesca Modica (175-G-81) returned to Faenza, while Simona Ballardini (183-F-81) and Daliborka Jokic (185-F-81) went to Venezia. Venezia acquired also backup playmaker Licia Corradini (173-G-85) from La Spezia.
Parma renforced its Australian matrix confirming Jennifer Screen and signing Laura Summerton (191-C-83, agency: LBM Management) from Taranto and Natalie Porter (185-F-80) from Sidney.

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MONTENEGRO - Women

Final 3 Round : Buducnost-Jedinstvo 97-57 -by Dragan Scepanovic
In 3 Round of Final series Basketball Club Buducnost from Podgorica in city of Podgorica win against Basketball Clu Jedinstvo from B.Polje 97-57 (2-1)

BUDUCNOST-JEDINSTVO 97-57 (26:18, 22:19, 20:14,29:6)
PODGORICA - Sport ceneter Moraca.Spect: 250. Reff: Koljensic,Savovic i Kaludjerovic
BUDUCNOST: Rasel 10,Maja Milutinovic (176-G-87) 11, Culafic 9, Ana Baletic (185-G/F-85) 13, Djurovic, Aleksic 9, Mihailovic,Popovic 8, Perovanovic 27,Draganicc, Jovanovic, Perovic 10.
JEDINSTVO: Knezevic 15,Bigovic 12, Burdzovic, Vucinic,Kojovic, Markovic, Jeknic 6,Zivana Jankovic (175-G-83) 9, Lazovic, Makismovic 15.

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POLAND - Women

Team Poland in China -by Maciej Schwarz
Polish Women National team accepted invitation from Chinese federation and went for Asian tournee. Three games will be played between national teams in Wu Xi, Hui Zhou, and Yi Jan. Krzysztof Koziorowicz , head coach, said that however the proper preparations to the European Championship Qualifications will start in July, it is right moment to check the players from the league, who could be added to the national team. Players like veteran Edyta Edyta Krysiewicz (164-G-70) (164-G-70) or Martyna Martyna Koc (186-C-83) (186-C-83) may show their best preformance while Agnieszka Bibrzycka (184-F/G-82, college: Abil.Christian) and Magdalena Leciejewska (191-C-86) rest. All players who went to China are: Ewelina Kobryn (193-C-82), Agata Gajda (174-G-80), Dorota Gburczyk (188-F-79), Monika Krawiec (172-G-84), Paulina Pawlak (170-G-84), Marta Jujka (191-C-88), Justyna Zurowska (188-C-85), Agnieszka Szott (186-F-82), Aleksandra Chomac (191-C-85), Edyta Krysiewicz, Martyna Koc, Joanna Jarkowska (183-F/C-81), Magdalena Skorek (177-G-84).

China outguns Poland in friendly -by Eurobasket News
China - Poland 91:72

Chinese National team continued the string of friendly games as the part of preparation for the upcoming Olympic Games. The team has already played 8 games and was victorious in seven of them. China won the Good Luck Beijing tournament earlier this month beating the USA team in the Final. This time China faced Poland in Wuxi, Southeast China. The hosts dominated the game as they used a 6:0 run to step in front late in the first period. China led 13:9 and later stretched the gap to double figures. Polish side struggled to come closer and trailed by as many as 12 points at the start of the second half. The visitors trimmed the gap to 9 points late in the third stanza but China controlled the pace and kept Poland at bay. The home team stepped on the gas once again in the fourth stanza and coasted to an overall win at the end. Miao Li Jie provided 20 points to lead the charge. Nan Chen (197-C-83) and Zhang Xiaoni (195-C-83) scored 18 points apiece in a winning case. Chen Xiaoli (193-C-82) netted 12 points for the winners. Monika Krawiec (172-G-84) led Poland with 19 points. Dorota Gburczyk (188-F-79) produced 10 points in a loss. China and Poland played at the Olympic Games in Sydney and Chinese team celebrated an 88:74 victory then. The teams will play two more games. The second and the third encounters are scheduled for tomorrow and Monday in Huizhou and Jiyuan respectively.

China: Miao Li Jie 20, Nan Chen 18, Zhang Xiaoni 18, Chen Xiaoli 12
Poland: Monika Krawiec 19, Dorota Gburczyk 10

Maslowski in Gdynia -by Maciej Schwarz
Michelle Maslowski (188-F/C-79, college: Drexel) was announced officialy today as Lotos PKO BP Gdynia player. She is fifth, and 2nd international player so far, signed for 2008/09 campaign. Last season she played for Viterbo, Italy.

Still there's no news, however, concerning head coach's position. Marcin Kicior, the club's director says: 'We penetrate market at this stage, looking for all options, domestic and international. I believe that in mid June we should have coach's position filled and then, will finish building the team along with that person'.

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UKRAINE - Women

Mircheva and Sokolan will meet each other in the Final -by Eurobasket News
Viktoria Mircheva (190-C-87) and Anna Sokolan (178-G-84) will meet each other in the Bulgarian Final for the best teams in the country.
Viktoria Mircheva and Dunav had little problems dealing with Rilski 70:51 away from home. The spectators that gathered in Arena Samokov had their hopes vanish in the starting frame as Dunav jumped to a 22:11 lead after 10 minutes of action. Rilski tried to slow the visitors down but the gap kept on growing and reached 15 points at halftime. Dunav shifted to a lower gear in the second half and coasted to energy-saving victory. Diana Naydenova stepped up with 16 points for Dunav. Anna Rimpova nailed 14 points and grabbed 7 boards for the visitors in a winning case. Agnesa Doychinova launched 24 points and collected 7 boards in a losing effort. Doly Tsankova dropped 10 points for Rilski.
In Game 2 Dunav Econt edged Rilski Sportist 85:64 with a defensive beginning. The hosts opened the game with 25:9 and increased to 50:23 due to 25:14 in the second period. In the second half Rilski Sportist scored more than the hosts, but reduced only to 85:64. Anna Rimpova led the winners with 20 points. Petya Djambazka nailed 16 and Diana Naydenova scored 12. Viktoria Mircheva Viktoria provided 4 points and made 2 boards.
Anna Sokolan (178-G-84) and Lukoil thrashed Beroe 07 in Stara Zagora to claim their ticket to the Final. The game turned into a one-way traffic right from the start as Lukoil stepped on the gas and easily ran away to a 25:15 distance after the first stanza. The visitors overwhelmed the hosts 31:12 to accumulate an insurmountable 29-point advantage at the interval. The game was done and Beroe collapsed in the second half scoring just 14 points and losing by 59 points. Radostina Slavova poured in 30 points for Lukoil. Katya Kordova had 22 points, while Natalia Topalova netted 18 points and grabbed 8 boards in a win. Neli Pasheva finished with 12 points for Beroe 07.
In Game 2 Lukoil Neftochimic stun Beroe 07 74:61 with an offensive basketball from the early beginning. The hosts flew with 27:15 and never looked behind in the game. Beroe 07 could win the third period 16:15 and could use it as a tool in the next game. Zornitza Kostova produced 19 points to lead all the scorers. Radostina Slavova posted 18, while Natalia Topalova collected 14 points and 14 rebounds. Ralitsa Naneva finished the game with 18 points in the losing clause.