Eurobasket Daily News Report:

EUROBASKET NEWS REPORT - 6/1/2008

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Men News

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ANTIGUA

Playoff stage gets under way in Antigua and Barbuda -by Eurobasket News
The Antigua and Barbuda Basketball Association welcomed the start of the playoffs. The Diamond Stars and Savoy Roots opened their first round series with victories. The Diamond Stars overcame Ovals 69:60 to take a 1-0 lead in the best-of-three series. Adissa Harris knocked down 18 points to pace the winners. Sylvester Carbon provided 16 points for the Stars. Winston Roberts answered with 16 points for the losing side.
Savoy Roots thumped Reflexions 57:38 for the lead in the series. Markland Wright provided 20 points for the Roots. Terry Roberts was helpful with 14 points. John Samuel answered with game-high 22 points in a losing effort.

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AUSTRALIA

Gleeson returns from US -by Eurobasket News
Townsville Crocodiles head coach Trevor Gleeson recently returned from a three week stint in the United States, where he caught up with import Rosell Ellis and a variety of high profile US coaches.

While with Ellis in Seattle, Gleeson took him through a variety of tough workouts to judge his fitness and how his recovery is coming along since last year's season ending pectoral muscle injury.

'Rosell looks great, he has recovered extremely well from the injury last year,' Gleeson said. 'He has been working out very hard the past few months and will definitely be ready for our upcoming 2008/09 NBL season campaign.'

'I'm looking forward to seeing Roe join us again with us this season. He's a tough competitor, and will definitely add a lot of strength and inside presence to our lineup,' he added.

While in the US, Gleeson spent time with a number of basketball contacts, including former USA Head Coach Mo McHone. He also spent time with Paul Woolpert, coach of the CBA's Yakima Sunkings, Brett Brown of the San Antonio Spurs and Bob Thornton, former assistant coach of the Chicago Bulls and Minnesota Timberwolves.

In addition, Gleeson was able to catch up with defensive specialist coach Garry Kloppenburg in Indiana. Kloppenburg is currently the assistant coach of the WNBA Indiana Fever and recently served with the Charlotte Bobcats as their defensive specialist coach.

'Defense is an area in our team that I really want to continue to focus on. Garry is a man with a wealth of knowledge and I was privileged enough to sit down with him and go through the latest defensive principles and pressure defensive techniques,' Gleeson said.

'Since leaving the states four years ago, the game has changed remarkably. By staying in touch with these coaches in the US, it's definitely given me an insight in to the direction the game is heading and the advancements that have been made in teaching techniques and game scouting,' he added.

The Crocs coach said he was also able to watch workouts of a few up and coming Australian kids in the college system and also participate in the World's Largest Coaching Clinic, which was held in Las Vegas.

'As coaches, we need to continue develop and look at new practices and principals on the way we do things,' Gleeson said.

'Taking part in the coaching clinics and observing practices of some of the top teams in the US, has definitely been a positive experience for me.'

Now back in Townsville, Gleeson says he'll be busy planning the upcoming pre-season training schedule for when the remainder of the team arrives in Townsville in July.

The 2008/09 NBL roster for the Townsville McDonald's Crocodiles is complete with the signing this week of Young Australian Player Steven Broom.

The roster includes John Rillie, Corey Williams, Rosell Ellis, Brad Sheridan, Daniel Egan, Kelvin Robertson, Michael Cedar, Ben Pepper, Brad Williamson & Steven Broom.
Courtesy of www.nbl.com.au

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BELGIUM

Charleroi Wins Championship -by Peter Buyse

Charleroi finally broke the ban and won their first Championship since 2004.
The went into Bree and got its second road win of the finals 59-61 to seal the deal.
In a rematch of the 2004-2005 finals this time around it was Charleroi who were victorious and win their 7th Championship overall.
It was also the first sweep (3-0) since Charleroi beat Verviers at the end of the 2002-2003 season.
Onto the game itself now. The first quarter ended very even on a 14-15 score. Neither team took a serious lead and it was Roel Moors who put the 14-15 on the scoreboard with 2 Ft's. The second quarter was probably the worst 10 minutes of basketball ever produced by Spirou Charleroi and it took them more than 9 minutes to score their first points of the quarter when Andre Riddick finally scored a basket to make it 28-17. It was Michael Meeks who did most of the scoring for Bree with 6pts in the period.

Things kept on looking good for Bree when Brian Lynch made a 3pt shot to up the score to 32-17 the biggest lead of the game so far.

Bree was not able to keep all of its lead in the 3rd quarter and saw Charleroi close the gap to 44-37 at the 30 minute mark. Free thorw by Tabu and the scoring of Matt Matt Walsh (197-F/G-82, college: Florida) brought Charleroi to within 3 pts of Bree untill Doron Perkins made a 3pointer to get the lead back up to 50-44.

Charleroi finally reclaimed the lead around the 37 minute mark on 3pt shots by Matt Walsh and Wilkinson (54-55).

With a little more than a minute to go Michael Meeks made another 3pt shot to tie the game at 59 a piece.

It was finally Justin Hamilton who with mere seconds to go scored the go ahead basket giving Charleroi a 59-61 lead.

Doron Perkins missed the desperation 3pointer for a chance to extend the playoffs.

Charleroi went without loss in the playoffs and is the well deserved champion of the 2007-2008 season.

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BOSNIA

Play-off semifinal games are ready to start -by Eurobasket News
Play-off semifinals of Bosnian championship will start today. Battle between Igokea Partizan and Siroki Prima pivo for sure will be much more interesting than the other semifinal where Bosna ASA BHT will meet Sloboda Dita.

Igokea Partizan and Siroki Prima pivo finished regular season with same score 10/4 but Igokea will have home court advantage due to better result in two games vs Siroki. Igokea showed much better performance than Siroki in regular season but both teams know it is not important when play-off begin. The team which succeeds to reach the final most probably will participate in Adriatic league next season. But the team who finishes championship at the semis will have to be satisfied with participation in Bosnian league next season.

'This game is one of the most important games for us this year. I am sure that people from Igokea Partizan have the same thought. Pressure is on very high level so who succeed to stay cool will have more chance for the final' - said Ivan Velic, head coach of Siroki prima pivo. Siroki suffered very inconvenient defeat in Aleksandrovac during the regular season as Igokea smashed them with plus 19 points.
'Tonight's game will be much different than our last two matches. Just one ball could be deceive tonight. Maybe on free throw or one more rebound will be crucial. The first game is very important but it won't be the last one. If we loose tonight I am sure we will celebrate in Siroki so we will have a one more chance in Aleksanrovac. I guarantee we will give our maximum and we will try to reach the final after only two games' - said Velic.

It is not known will Toni Dijan (203-F-83) of Siroki be able to help his team tonight because of ankle injury.

Bosnian Play-Off, Semifinal games - win for Bosna and Igokea -by Elvir Halilovic

Bosna ASA BH Telecom - Sloboda Dita 82:65
(24:15, 21:18, 22:14, 15:18)
Sarajevo, SD Skenderija; Att.: 600; Ref.: Jovanic, Okuka, Drmic
BOSNA ASA BHT: Jefferson 8, Sehovic 7, Tomovic T. 5, Ikonic 16, Bavcic 12, Djurasovic, Bailey 4, Rahimic 14 (7 reb.), Hajric 2, Pasalic, Jackson, Williams 14 (6 reb.)
Coach: Jurij Zdovc
SLOBODA DITA: Halilovic 1, Milosevic M. 27 (9 reb.), Hrncic, Halilbegovic 3, Albijanic, Persic, Tomovic V. 2, Tanasilovic 3, Matic 7, Milosevic N. 2, Jocovic 8 (7 reb.), Ross 12
Coach: Senad Muminovic

Igokea Partizan - Siroki Prima Pivo 81:65

(30:10, 16:14, 19:20, 16:21)

Aleksandrovac, SD Nenad Bastinac; Att.: 1.300; Ref.: Zurapovic, Bijedic, Duskaj
IGOKEA PARTIZAN: Tosic 5, Patterson 6, Bocka 19, Stazic 2, Djurica, Vucurovic 7, Cup 4, Wright, Lydeka 6, Stefanovic 17, Kovacevic 4, Allen 11

Coach: Drago Karalic
SIROKI PRIMA PIVO: Bubalo, Planinic, Grays 21, Stemberger 4, Dijan 9, Zupic 2, Sola 10, Naletilic, Susak, Fayardo 12, Bethel, Ezugwu 7

Coach: Ivan Velic

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BRAZIL

Flamengo take care of business in Game 1 -by Eurobasket News
Flamengo - Universo/BRB 93:66

Flamengo nipped Universo/BRB in the first game of the BNL Finals in Rio de Janeiro. The defending champions failed to hold their former player Marcelinho Machado (200-F/G-75, agency: Interperformances), who led them to the title in 2007. Machado this time donned Flamengo jersey and lived up to his status of the leader. The guard finished with 24 points, 6 boards and 6 assists to secure a cruising win for the hosts in this one. Flamengo opened the game at a stunning speed. The home team accounted for 32 points in the first frame to pile up a 20-point buffer before the second quarter. Universo/BRB looked for answers in the second stanza but found none as Flamengo extended the lead to as many as 34 points at the interval. Universo/BRB however did not say die. They fought for their lives in the third period outgunning the hosts 23:9 and cutting the deficit. But the effort ran dry pretty quickly as Flamengo regained the control in the final quarter and drove to an overall win at the end. Eduardo Duda Machado (197-F-82) and Helio Vitor Lima (185-G-81) contributed 19 points apiece for the winners. Alirio de Souza (208-C-77) had 11 points and 11 boards for Flamengo. Valtinho Silva (187-G-77, agency: Interperformances) poured in 17 points to lead Universo/BRB. Arthur Luiz Belchior (197-G/F-82) had 10 points, while Maurice Spillers had 9 points in defeat. The teams were equally matched on the boards with 38 caroms apiece. Flamengo shot solid 45% from the field limiting their opponents to only 37%. The next game is scheduled for Sunday in Rio de Janeiro.

Flamengo: Marcelinho Machado 24, Eduardo Duda Machado 19, Helio Vitor Lima 19
Universo/BRB: Valtinho Silva 17, Arthur Luiz Belchior 10

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CHINA

Summer League Info. -by Robert Wang
Summer league has been playing for 8 games till now. Lee Nailon from Tian Jin team led the score at 36 points per game.Tian Jin team , Guang dong 2 teams are on the top 3, and Qing Dao team, Hei Long Jiang team are after them. Hei Long Jiang team lost all the games so far. Here is the game result from last game:
Jiang Su 93:106 Dong guan, Guang Dong 95:86 Shen zhen, He Nan 105:93 Hei Long Jiang, Qing Dao 101:114 Tian Jin. Tian Jin would be the best candidate to go the D-1 this year.

Zhang Kai Scores 20 as China Defeats Memphis 87-80 -- Updated -by Arthur Volbert

Zhang Kai (211-C-82) scored 20 points to lead the Chinese National Team to an 87-80 victory over the NCAA Division I Memphis Tigers.

However Memphis was not the team that was runner-up in this year's NCAA championship. The three best Memphis players -- Derrick Rose, Chris Douglas-Roberts and Joey Dorsey -- are preparing for the NBA draft.

This squad contains Memphis players who would not be drafted as well as some good conference USA players who also are not NBA prospects. The team wore 'Conference USA' on its uniforms rather than 'Memphis' which further indicates the nature of the team.

The game was close throughout, with several lead changes, despite the absence of the Memphis NBA-caliber players. But Yao Ming and Yi Jianlian were also absent. Wang Zhizhi also did not play. China went ahead for good at 75-74.

However this game does indicate that Zhang Kai is very likely to make the Olympic team, barring injury, and may see significant playing time. Zhang is a thin but very athletic 6-11 late-bloomer and may do well in international competition. I predicted during the CBA season that Zhang was likely to make the Olympic team. It would not shock me to see Zhang take playing time away from Wang Zhizhi, especially when the team needs defense and rebounding rather than offense.

Zhang had 10 rebounds to go along with his 20 points and played 30 minutes. He hit 9 of 11 shots. Zhu Fangyu had 17 points, 6 reboundS and 3 assists in 40 minutes. Liu Wei played 27 minutes with 10 points and 3 assists. Du Feng had 7 points and 7 rebounds but made only 3 of 17 shots.

Box Score:

http://cba.sports.sina.com.cn/look_scores.php?m_id=2054

China----- 16 21 21 29 87
Memphis 18 22 17 23 80

Ding Jinhui 12min+2p+3r+1a, Liu Wei 27min+10p+1r+3a, Li Xiaoxu 16min+2p+2r, Zhu Fangyu 40min+17p+6r+3a, Wang Shipeng 17min+8p+4r, Wang Lei 6min+2p+1a, Zhang Kai 30min+20p+10r, Sun Yue 15min+4p+2r, Liu Xiaoyu 8min+7p+1r+1a, Li Nan 18min+6p+3r, Chen Jianghua 11min+2p+1r+2a, Du Feng 26min+7p(3-17)+7r+1a

Summer League Info. -by Robert Wang

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CROATIA

Croatia loses twice in Italy -by Eurobasket News
Croatian National team travelled to Italy to take part in Bandiera Blu tournament in Roseto. Croatia arrived in Italy with the closes reserves for the National team and faced Iran and Italy in the opening two rounds of the competition. In the opener Croatia failed to tame Iran and Hamed Hadadi (218-C-85, agency: Huss Sport Agency). The Iranian centre led his teammates to a confident 76:66 victory over Croatian youngsters.
Yesterday Croatia took on the hosting Italy. The visitors spurred ahead at the start of the game and controlled the situation throughout the first frame. Croatia enjoyed a 17:15 lead ten minutes into the encounter. However Italy gradually took over and solid performance from Luigi Datome (202-G/F-87) allowed the hosts to roll to the long break up by 3 points. Italian side kept on mounting the pressure and it resulted in the margin being stretched to 7 points midway through the third frame. But Croatia refused to give in as they cut the deficit to 4 points heading into the final frame and then came as close as a single point with 5 minutes remaining. But Italy withstood all the efforts from Croatian players to deny the deficit in the crunch time and celebrated the second win at the tournament. Luigi Datome led all scorers with 18 points. Marco Passera (180-G-82) added 12 points for the winners. Vedran Vukusic (203-F-82, college: Northwestern) answered with 17 points for Croatia. Luka Zoric (211-C/F-84) scored 12 points, while Krunoslav had 9 in defeat.
Croatia will wrap up their Bandiera Blu campaign against Algeria later tonight.

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CZECH REPUBLIC

Nymburk leads 1:0 in the finals -by Ondra Simecek
CEZ Basketball Nymburk enetered the final series with a victory over Geofin Novy Jicin. 4 time Czech champion had to work hard to get the victory and turned the score to their side in the last 3 minutes of the game. Novy Jicin started the game very well and after the first quarter was winnning 21:27. The second quarter was also in the lead of Novy Jicin, but Nymburk took few chances to equalise the score and the halftime finnished 41:41. After the halftime Novy Jicin continued in their tempo a Nymburk could not get over them. 4 minutes till the end of the game Novy Jicin was winning 67:70 and Nymburk started with agresive defense and let NovyJicin to score just 3 points. Nymburk had a ofensive support in Sokolovsky, Petr Benda (203-F/C-82, agency: Court Side) and Mack during last minutes and the game finnished 84:73.
Next game will be played on Sunday from 4:00PM in Nymburk.

Points: Rancik 22, Petr Benda 16, Sokolovsky 15, Mack 11 - Sarovic 22, Walker 14, Pelikan 9

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EGYPT

Super League Standings

Superleague Standings

Group A
1. Gezira	12-3
2. Zamalek	10-5
3. Ahly	8-7
4. Al Ittihad	8-7
5. Somouha	6-9
6. Sporting	5-10
Group B
1. Geish Army	8-1
2. Shorta-Police	7-2
3. Shams	7-2
4. Gazco	7-3
5. Eastern Co.	5-4
6. Damenhor	1-8

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EL SALVADOR

Liga Superior awards given -by Gianni Pascucci
At the end of Game 3, the Liga Superior officials awarded Nathan Watson (191-G-83, agency: TASM, college: Auburn) as the league MVP, Julio Mancia (202-C-80) as the domestic MVP and Ernesto Mauro Oglivie (202-F-88) as the LSB Top Scorer. Watson joined ExSal in mid-season and added the scoring knack that allowed his team to win all the games played with him. Mancia was very effective under the boards almost all the season, and can now be considered the best inside player in El Salvador. Young Panamanian Oglivie, who has yet left the league to join Caimanes de Rio Abajo in CBS league, showed great improvements all season long and became one of the best offensive players in El Salvador.
with the help of Jaime Arevalo

ExSal triumphs in Apertura -by Jaime Arevalo
Defeating Denver even in Game 3 of the Final Series, ExSal was crowned the Apertura Champion 2008. The game ended 107-90, and ExSal was quarterbacked very well by Salvador Bandek (181-G-78), who allowed all his teammates to take easy shots. Nathan Watson (191-G-83, agency: TASM, college: Auburn) was the game top scorer at 29 points, Oscar Rivera (186-G-80) added 21 pts and Dion Harper (202-F/C-74, college: Texas Arlington) 16. Julio Mancia (202-C-80) shined at the rebounding department and added 14 points. Denver was led by Carlos Espinal (175-G-76) who scored 21 points, and Oscar Tobar (195-F/C-75) added 17. ts

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FYR MACEDONIA

Will name of the new champion be known tonight ? -by Eurobasket News
Feni Industrija will meet defending champion Strumica 2005 tonight at their home court in Kavadarci. Current score at the final series is 3-1 for Feni. Tonight's hosts had 1-0 before the finals series even started because of their position at the end of the regular season. Feni finished it on top registering 26 victories and 4 defeats while Strumica was on the second place with score 22-8.

At the first game in Kavadarci Feni celebrated in the last minute of the game thanks to lot of missed free throws by its opponent when it was the most important. It was 79-75 and 2-0 for Feni. At the second game the defending champion gave real basketball lesson to Feni beating them 82-69. They total smashed Feni in the first quarter 27-10 keeping lead until the end. At the last game Feni won mostly owing to nice played third quarter and Zlatko Gocevski (206-C-82, agency: Global Sports Plaza), who netted 24 points against his ex team Strumica 2005.

Head coach of Strumica 2005, Miodrag Kadija, is not satisfied with status which defending champion has this season. 'We can not struggle against everyone. We play this final without two very important players while at the same time there is a lot of people in FYROM who would like to see Feni as a new champion. I really don't understand what we have done badly and why our status here is so much different than Feni's. At the end we are current Macedonian champion yet' - said Kadija.

Maybe the decisive game is scheduled for tonight and Feni will have a chance to become the new champion of FYR Macedonia. On the other side Strumica 2005 for sure looks forward to stay in race for the title after tonight's game.

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GERMANY

Noerdlingen's captain stays -by Manuel Schust
Bundeliga newcomer VPG Giants Noerdlingen re-signed teamcaptain Carl Mbassa (194-G/F-78, agency: Scorers 1st Sportmanagement) for another season.

The 30-year-old german only played 18 games for Noerdlingen in ProA due to an injury and averaged 9.2 points and 4 rebounds in 25 minutes.
It will be Mbassa's second chance in BBL. During the 1999/2000 season, he played just 3 games for Skyliners Frankfurt and then moved back to the second division, where he became an important player for Freiburg, Chemnitz and Noerdlingen.
After re-signing Avi Kazarnovski (209-C-80, agency: Scorers 1st Sportmanagement) and Ty Shaw (202-F/C-79, agency: Scorers 1st Sportmanagement, college: Albertson), Carl Mbassa is the third player, who remains with the club.

Q&A with Stephen Cramer -by Moritz Korff
It's never easy if you leave home to start a job some place you have never been before. Especially when you are going overseas for the first time in your life. Like Stephen Cramer (188-G, college: Hope (MI)). Coming out of a small town in Michigan with a population of about 1,000, he decided to make the big step to Europe after having completed a stellar NCAA-career at Division 3-powerhouse Hope College in 2007 and having received recognition as an All-American as well as MVP-honors in the MIAA. He signed with the COOCOON Baskets Weiden and made an impact from day one. At least when Cramer scored 54 points for his new team in a preseason game, Weiden's Coach Uwe Glaser knew that he had picked the right player. And Cramer continued to put up outstanding numbers. Actually through the whole campaign, as he finished his rookie-season with a league-leading 32.2 points per contest and was named to the Eurobasket All-Regionalliga South-East First Team.
Stephen took the time to answer some of our questions. If you want to learn more about Stephen Cramer, please check out his website: http://www.stephencramer.com

Please sum up your first season as a pro. Did it run like you had expected?
Honestly, I didn't really know what to expect in my first season as a professional basketball player. I also didn't know what it was going to be like living overseas since I had never been to Europe before this past year. I just wanted to be the best player that I could be and help the team the best I could. But as far as expectations I really didn't have any because I didn't know what to expect.

You scored 32.2 points per game for Weiden during this past season. In your senior-year at Hope College you had 17 points on average. Do the players in the NCAA Division 3 attach greater importance to defense than the players in the German Regionalliga?
There was more emphasis on defense in college than in the Regionalliga. However part of the difference from college to Weiden was that we had a team with lots of scorers so I didn't need to shoot as often and we often won by a large margin so I didn't play nearly as many minutes as I did this past season.

Besides your ability to score. What else makes your game special?
Well I have never tried to just be a scorer just be to an all-around player. I just try to see how the team is that I am on and figure out how I can best contribute to give that team the best chance of winning. This past season it was scoring but I feel like I can adapt and find my niche depending on the team. I played both the one and the two and I think I was able to create some things for my teammates.
But overall I just try to be a good teammate and continue to encourage my teammates no matter what the situation is. I try to make that the most important part of my game because sometimes people have off days, I know no matter how hard I try there will be games that I don't play the way I want to, but I can always help my team by encouraging them to be a good teammate and do their best.

How did you get along off the court in your first year in Germany?
I felt like I got along pretty well. Obviously there were times where I really missed my family and friends from back home but I also made a good group of friends in the city of Weiden that I will never forget. I am very appreciative of the kindness they showed toward me and they made my transition of living in another country very easy.

Greg Immink, your teammate at Hope College, came to Weiden one year before you signed with the team. Who is going to be the next Flying Dutchman to play overseas?
I am not exactly sure who the next player will be. But a guy named Marcus Vanderheide just graduated from Hope and was an All-American this past season as well. He has shown some interest in playing overseas this next season and if he decides to do that and finds a team I think he can find success.

Hope College advanced to the NCAA 3 Final Four in 2007-08, only one season after you had left school. How does that make you feel? Happy or sad?
My senior year we were one game away from the Final Four. Only 3 points. That is obviously a sad feeling knowing you were so close to a goal that you and your teammates had worked so hard to make and it didn't work out. But as far as the 2007-08 team I think they gained some experience learning from the year before that and they used it to their advantage. I am very happy for them, they deserved to make it and had a great season. Of course I wish I could have made a trip their with a team myself but at Hope we are very close and I am in touch with a lot of those players and when I see them succeed I felt like a part of me succeeded with them.

You will run a basketball camp for children in the USA this summer. What are you going to teach them?
First of all my two favorite things to do are play basketball and work with younger people. So anytime I can do that I am going to have a great time. We are going to work on a lot of different skills and a lot of it has to do with footwork and how to position yourself in certain areas when you are playing. I want to show the kids that they really can become quicker just by using the correct footwork to put themselves in the right position during games. I am also going to give them lots of individual drills that they can use when they go home to become a better player. I also have some people that are going to speak on having good character, integrity and discipline. I want the kids to be able to take some things from the camp that they can not only apply to the basketball caourt but to things that will help them be a better person off the court.

Have you made any plans for the 2008-2009 season yet?
I currently do not know where I will be playing next season. I have been in contact with a few teams but besides that I am just working on my game. My only goal is to become the best player I can be and see how high of a level that can take me. I am not one of those guys who wants to stay in a lower league for a long time and put up a lot of points I would much rather play in a higher league and find a role and continuing to play against better and better players, which I know will make me better. But as of right now I have not counted anything out and we will see what happens next season God willing.

Does a player who averages more than 30 points a game in his rookie-season receive many offers from higher league teams?
Yes I have been in contact with some higher league teams and am just waiting to see if anything materializes.

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GREECE

Maroussi has renewed Kostas Kaimakoglou for 2 years. -by Simon Varvakis
Kostas Kaimakoglou (206-C/F-83) has agreed financial terms with Maroussi and will continue to play for the team for 2 more years. The 25 year old power forward has been with the team for 4 years when he was transferred from Near East and renewed his contract with Maroussi before the end of the play-offs. Kostas Kaimakoglou mentioned how Maroussi is one of the most efficient teams when it comes to their financial state and the administration of Maroussi mentioned that they were delighted to have him in their ranks. Maroussi is now one win away from securing the 3rd place in the greek league play-offs that will ensure their participation in next year's Euroleague.

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HOLLAND

FEB Finals: MyGuide Amsterdam Spoils Eiffel Towers Party, Win Game #6 -by Sanders Jackson

Thursday night in the Maaspoort, defending Dutch champions Eiffel Towers had a chance to retain its title and 15th overall Dutch title at home, but MyGuide Amsterdam would not be denied, keeping the champagne on ice and forcing a game #7, winning by the score of 82-72. MyGuide shook off a good Eiffel 1st quarter start by winning every quarter after that, with the MyGuide backcourt making a difference in not only the comeback, but by making their three-pointers. MyGuide's Sergerio Gipson

(193-G/F-80, agency: 540 Sports, college: Arkansas) was a thorn in Eiffel's side, scoring a game-high 26 pts., including a big go-ahead three-pointer at the end of the 3rd quarter that gave MyGuide the psychological edge, with Tamien Trent

(183-G-82, agency: Strategic Sports, college: Fairleigh Dickinson) scoring five straight points to spark an 11-0 run at the start of the 4th quarter that gave MyGuid ethe egde for good. MyGuide made 11 three-pointers and dominated the glass 41-31. MyGuide also made 13 of 14 free throws. MyGuide will have homecourt advantage for the final game of the Dutch competition. Who will be on Sunday the 2007-08 Dutch FEB champions?

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ISRAEL

Eurobasket.com All-Israeli League Awards 2007-08 -by Eurobasket

Burtt

Morris

Tucker

Hill

Arnold

Player of the Year - Steve Burtt (185-G-84, college: Iona) of Eldan Ashkelon
Guard of the Year - Steve Burtt (185-G-84) of Eldan Ashkelon
Forward of the Year - Terence Morris (206-F-79) of Maccabi Elite Tel-Aviv
Center of the Year - Otis Hill (203-C-74) of Iscar Nahariya
Newcomer of the Year - Nir Cohen (202-F/C-81) of Maccabi Ironi Ramat Gan
Most Improved Player of the Year - Yuval Neimi (187-G-85) of Eldan Ashkelon
Bosman Player of the Year - Juan Mendez (202-F-81) of Maccabi Rishon Le-Zion
Import Player of the Year - Steve Burtt (185-G-84) of Eldan Ashkelon
Domestic Player of the Year - Meir Tapiro (194-G-75) of Bnei Hasharon
Defensive Player of the Year - Terence Morris (206-F-79) of Maccabi Elite Tel-Aviv
Coach of the Year - Miki Dorsman of Hapoel Holon

1st Team
Steve Burtt (185-G-84) of Eldan Ashkelon
P.J. Tucker (196-F-85) of Hapoel Holon
Terence Morris (206-F-79) of Maccabi Elite Tel-Aviv
Jamie Arnold (203-F-75) of Hapoel Migdal Jerusalem
Otis Hill (203-C-74) of Iscar Nahariya

2nd Team
Meir Tapiro (194-G-75) of Bnei Hasharon
Yogev Ohayon (189-G-87) of Hapoel Galil Elyon
Brian Tolbert (188-G-74) of Maccabi Ironi Ramat Gan
Marcus Fizer (203-F-78) of Maccabi Elite Tel-Aviv
Ndudi Ebi (206-F-84) of Bnei Hasharon

Honorable Mention
Ori Ichaki (196-G-81) of Maccabi Ironi Ramat Gan
Elton Brown (206-F/C-83) of Hapoel Holon
Eric Campbell (199-F-76) of Hapoel Holon
Chester Simmons (198-G-82) of Hapoel Holon
Jason Williams (196-G/F-83) of Bnei Hasharon
Yotam Halperin (196-G-84) of Maccabi Elite Tel-Aviv
Omri Casspi (204-F/G-88) of Maccabi Elite Tel-Aviv
Omar Sneed (203-F/C-76) of Maccabi Rishon Le-Zion
Guy Pniny (201-F-83) of Hapoel Migdal Jerusalem
Timmy Bowers (188-G-82) of Hapoel Migdal Jerusalem
Tunji Awojobi (201-F-73) of Gilboa/Afula/Migdal Haemek

All-Domestic Players Team
Yogev Ohayon (189-G-87) of Hapoel Galil Elyon
Meir Tapiro (194-G-75) of Bnei Hasharon
Omri Casspi (204-F/G-88) of Maccabi Elite Tel-Aviv
Gil Mosinzon (200-F/G-78) of Hapoel Galil Elyon
Erez Markovic (208-C-78) of Hapoel Migdal Jerusalem

All-Imports Team
Steve Burtt (185-G-84) of Eldan Ashkelon
P.J. Tucker (196-F-85) of Hapoel Holon
Marcus Fizer (203-F-78) of Maccabi Elite Tel-Aviv
Terence Morris (206-F-79) of Maccabi Elite Tel-Aviv
Otis Hill (203-C-74) of Iscar Nahariya

All-Defensive Team
Terence Morris (206-F-79) of Maccabi Elite Tel-Aviv
Ndudi Ebi (206-F-84) of Bnei Hasharon
Chris Massie (206-F-77) of Eldan Ashkelon
Ousmane Cisse (206-C-82) of Bnei Hasharon
Eric Campbell (199-F-76) of Hapoel Holon

All-Newcomers Team
Nir Cohen (202-F/C-81) of Maccabi Ironi Ramat Gan
Dagan Yavzuri (193-G-85) of Gilboa/Afula/Migdal Haemek
Sheer Lavi (204-C-87) of Gilboa/Afula/Migdal Haemek
Tal Michael Dunne (197-G/F-87) of Maccabi Rishon Le-Zion
Amit Shimon (197-G-89) of Maccabi Ironi Ramat Gan

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ITALY

Eurobasket.com All-Italian Lega2 Awards 2007-08 -by Eurobasket

Collins

Moss

Maggioli

Childress

Bougaieff

Player of the Year - Andre Collins (183-G-82, college: Loyola, MD) of Carife Ferrara
Guard of the Year - Andre Collins (183-G-82) of Carife Ferrara
Forward of the Year - David Moss (196-F-83) of Fileni Bpa Jesi
Center of the Year - Michele Maggioli (212-C-77) of Fileni Bpa Jesi
Newcomer of the Year - Nicolo Melli (204-F-91) of Trenkwalder Reggio Emilia
Most Improved Player of the Year - Massimo Chessa (188-G-88) of Banco di Sardegna Sassari
Bosman Player of the Year - Alex Bougaieff (208-C-77) of Indesit Fabriano
Import Player of the Year - Andre Collins (183-G-82) of Carife Ferrara
Domestic Player of the Year - Michele Maggioli (212-C-77) of Fileni Bpa Jesi
Defensive Player of the Year - Otis George (205-C-81) of Fastweb Casale Monferrato
Coach of the Year - Giorgio Valli of Basket Club Ferrara

1st Team
Andre Collins (183-G-82) of Carife Ferrara
Randolph Childress (190-G-72) of Pepsi Caserta
David Moss (196-F-83) of Fileni Bpa Jesi
Alex Bougaieff (208-C-77) of Indesit Fabriano
Michele Maggioli (212-C-77) of Fileni Bpa Jesi

2nd Team
Otis George (205-C-81) of Fastweb Casale Monferrato
Trent Whiting (185-G-76) of Banco di Sardegna Sassari
Omar Thomas (195-F-82) of Coopsette Rimini Crabs
Oluoma Nnamaka (200-F/C-78) of Carife Ferrara
Harold Jamison (204-C-76) of Carife Ferrara

Honorable Mention
J.R. Reynolds (188-G-84) of Vanoli Soresina
Quadre Lollis (200-F/C-73) of Vanoli Soresina
Rashad Anderson (195-G/F-83) of TDShop.it Livorno
Alvin Young (191-F-75) of Trenkwalder Reggio Emilia

All-Domestic Players Team
Mauro Morri (190-G-77) of Vanoli Soresina
Raymond Tutt (194-G-75) of Pepsi Caserta
Matteo Formenti (194-G-82) of Fastweb Casale Monferrato
Tommaso Fantoni (203-F-85) of TDShop.it Livorno
Michele Maggioli (212-C-77) of Fileni Bpa Jesi

All-Imports Team
Andre Collins (183-G-82) of Carife Ferrara
Randolph Childress (190-G-72) of Pepsi Caserta
David Moss (196-F-83) of Fileni Bpa Jesi
Otis George (205-C-81) of Fastweb Casale Monferrato
Harold Jamison (204-C-76) of Carife Ferrara

All-Bosmans Team
Mats Levin (188-G-77) of Edimes Pavia
Janis Porzingis (201-F-82) of Carmatic Pistoia
Oluoma Nnamaka (200-F/C-78) of Carife Ferrara
Rodger Farrington (200-C-76) of Fileni Bpa Jesi
Alex Bougaieff (208-C-77) of Indesit Fabriano

All-Defensive Team
Alberto Rossini (192-G-69) of Fileni Bpa Jesi
Rodolfo Jr. Valenti (198-F-80) of Vanoli Soresina
Andrea Ghiacci (200-G/F-81) of Pepsi Caserta
Otis George (205-C-81) of Fastweb Casale Monferrato
Marco Cusin (211-C-85) of Vanoli Soresina

All-Newcomers Team
Massimo Chessa (188-G-88) of Banco di Sardegna Sassari
Franko Bushati (188-G-85) of Banco di Sardegna Sassari
Fiorello Toppo (198-F/C-80) of Carmatic Pistoia
Nicolo Melli (204-F-91) of Trenkwalder Reggio Emilia
Marco Cusin (211-C-85) of Vanoli Soresina

Another win for Team Italy -by Gianni Pascucci
In Day 2 of 'Bandiera Blu' tournment at Roseto, Italy defeated Croazia 67-63, but it wasn' t an easy job, like it is everytime that Team Italy meets Croatia in one of those classic 'Adriatic Derbies'. The dynamic inside players and the physical impact of the guest team was a serious challenge for the Azzurri, the consequence was a poor scoring accuracy and the clear need of more defensive intensity and inside toughness. Coach Recalcati stated at the end he was enough satisfied of his team's reaction. The game best performers were Luigi Datome (202-G/F-87), who led Italy with 18 points, and Vedran Vukusic (203-F-82, college: Northwestern), who scored 17 for Croatia. In the other game of Day 2, Iran prevailed over Algeria upset Croatia 80-78 and tonight will meet Italy for the Tournment crown.

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JORDAN

NT duo agree with ASU Sports Club -by Mohammed Malas
The newly promoted team ASU Sports club had confirmed earlier today the signature of 2 of the Jordan National Team stars Zeid Abbas (203-F-83) and Abdalla Abu Koura (202-C-84).

Zeid Abbas's performance developed to a better level in the last few months following his leadership in scoring between locals in Excellent League (27.8 ppg) last season with his old club Arena Amman adding to his big add to Zain's succession in winning the Arab Club Championship title last month, While ex-Orthodox player will have a better chance to appear with a another team which has a big plan to appear in a good shape next season.

ASU has another good local players in the team such as NT player Islam Abbas (201-C-80) with veterans Faisal Nsour (180-G-75) & Nihad Madi (200-F/C-78).

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LEBANON

Asia-Basket.com All-Lebanese League Awards 2007-08 -by Eurobasket

Ismail

Fahed

Kelly

Nolan

Tarver

Player of the Year - Ahmad Ismail (201-F-76) of Sporting Al Riyadi Beirut
Guard of the Year - Rony Fahed (182-G-81) of Sagesse - Al Hekmeh Beirut
Forward of the Year - Ahmad Ismail (201-F-76) of Sporting Al Riyadi Beirut
Center of the Year - Norman Nolan (202-F/C-76) of Al Moutahed Tripoli
Newcomer of the Year - Nadim Souaid of Antranik Beirut
Most Improved Player of the Year - Roy Samaha (205-F/C-84) of Al Moutahed Tripoli
Import Player of the Year - Ahmad Ismail (201-F-76) of Sporting Al Riyadi Beirut
Domestic Player of the Year - Rony Fahed (182-G-81) of Sagesse - Al Hekmeh Beirut
Defensive Player of the Year - Ahmad Ismail (201-F-76) of Sporting Al Riyadi Beirut
Coach of the Year - Toni Vujanic of Al Moutahed Tripoli

1st Team
Rony Fahed (182-G-81) of Sagesse - Al Hekmeh Beirut
Darren Kelly (190-G-78) of Al Moutahed Tripoli
Ahmad Ismail (201-F-76) of Sporting Al Riyadi Beirut
Norman Nolan (202-F/C-76) of Al Moutahed Tripoli
Derrick Tarver (192-G-80) of Blue Stars

2nd Team
Jarred Merrill (206-F-81) of Champville
Joe Vogel (211-C-73) of Sporting Al Riyadi Beirut
Jean Abdel-Nour (198-G/F-83) of Blue Stars
Jonathan Jones (211-C-79) of Champville
B.J. Spencer (193-G-84) of Antranik Beirut

Honorable Mention
Ace Custis (202-F-74) of Sporting Al Riyadi Beirut
Ali Mahmoud (182-G-83) of Sporting Al Riyadi Beirut
Nadim Souaid of Antranik Beirut
Roy Samaha (205-F/C-84) of Al Moutahed Tripoli
Mazen Mneimneh (192-G-86) of Sporting Al Riyadi Beirut
Hussein Tawbe (198-F-82) of Sporting Al Riyadi Beirut
Joe Mansour (191-F-77) of Sagesse - Al Hekmeh Beirut
Jihad Murr (196-F-85) of Blue Stars
Aaron Haynes (202-F-81) of Sporting Feytroun
Kevin Jolley (197-F-82) of Champville
Kevin Johnson (202-F-79) of Sagesse - Al Hekmeh Beirut

All-Domestic Players Team
Rony Fahed (182-G-81) of Sagesse - Al Hekmeh Beirut
Jean Abdel-Nour (198-G/F-83) of Blue Stars
Joe Vogel (211-C-73) of Sporting Al Riyadi Beirut
Hussein Tawbe (198-F-82) of Sporting Al Riyadi Beirut
Ali Mahmoud (182-G-83) of Sporting Al Riyadi Beirut

All-Imports Team
Ahmad Ismail (201-F-76) of Sporting Al Riyadi Beirut
Darren Kelly (190-G-78) of Al Moutahed Tripoli
Norman Nolan (202-F/C-76) of Al Moutahed Tripoli
Derrick Tarver (192-G-80) of Blue Stars
Jarred Merrill (206-F-81) of Champville

All-Defensive Team
Ali Mahmoud (182-G-83) of Sporting Al Riyadi Beirut
Ahmad Ismail (201-F-76) of Sporting Al Riyadi Beirut
Joe Mansour (191-F-77) of Sagesse - Al Hekmeh Beirut
Rodrigue Akl (185-G-88) of Blue Stars
Kevin Johnson (202-F-79) of Sagesse - Al Hekmeh Beirut

Tebnine to 1st division -by Rony Daccache
A typical final between Tebnine and Kahraba Zouk. Game 4 was similar to previous ones where excitement and tension prevailed till the end of game. Tebnine made a good start in the 1st quarter by applying a 1-3-1 zone defence and succeeded in building a 7-point difference 21-14.
In the 2nd quarter, Kahraba Zouk's experienced players broke the zone by moving the ball very fast from inside to outside and scoring from all ranges, which forced Tebnine to switch into men-to-men defence. At half, the score was 34-38 for Tebnine.

The old Duo, Saba and Kozah, kept their team focused in the game by leading the team, scoring, grabbing fouls and going to free throw line where they had a high shooting percentage.
The game pace remained stable during the whole game. In the middle of the 4th quarter, Tebnine made a run and lead by 7 points (69-62). Saba answered quickly by a 3 point shot and the foul shot, then Kozah took another 3 pointer to tie the game at the last minute. Khaled El Mawla (190-G-82) (190-G-82) (24 pts), with an all the way drive, scored 2 points + 1 foul shot. There were 20 remaining seconds: Khaled stole the golden ball, picked a foul to score 1 point and ended the precious game for his team by 73-69.

Referees were up to the final's level in that game and not too many fouls were called. Finally, the two present federation's members Fares Medawar, FLB Secretary General, Ali Fawaz and Kahraba Zouk's team manager Joseph Zgheib, distributed the cups and medals to the team's captains: Hilal Shit (Tebnine), Mark Kozah (190-F-73) (Kahraba Zouk), and Anis Feghali (Antonins).

Kahraba Zouk will meet Antranik in 2 out of 3 games for relegation.
Congratulations for Tebnine club and good luck for the next season in the 1st division!

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LIBYA

Libya Offers to Host Basketball's African Nations Championship -by Eurobasket News

The Libyan Basketball Federation has officially offered to host the 1st African Nations Championship qualifiers for Basketball's World Cup. Alen Karar, the head of the African Basketball Federation who recently paid a visit to the country and also made a courtesy call on the Libyan Leader, made the announcement of Libya's application.

During his visit to Libya, Karar also had a meeting with Eng. Mohammed Al-Qathafi, chairman of the Libyan Olympic Committee.

Libya's application is expected to be discussed at the African Federation's next meeting.

In the meantime, Al-Ahli Tripoli's defeat at the hands of Al-Shabab by 64-57 has allow-ed the Basketball League title race to hot up with three teams now sharing the top billing. After 17 matches Al-Ahli have been joined by Al-Shabab, but even have a better points' difference than AL-Ahli and the other table-toppers Al-Ittihad who beat Al-Tahaddi 71-49.

Al-Nasser, who obtained their 13th victory in the campaign, with the round's largest points' difference, 103-52 over Al-Yarmouk, are fourth (a pint behind) in the standings in a healthy enough position from where they are able to spring a final challenge for honors with five matches remaining.

ROUND 17 Results
Al-Tahaddi v Al-Ittihad 49-71
Al-Jazeera v Al-Wehda 68-60
Al-Hilal v Al-Morog 59-47
Al-Ahli (B) v Al-Madina 83-63
Al-Nasser v Al-Yarmouk 103-52
Al-Shabab v Al-Ahli (T) 64-57

Courtesy of Tripoli Post

Ittihad beats Shabab in the crucial game -by Anas Seddigh
There were only two games played yesterday in the round 19.
Jazera - Ahli Tripoli 56-63 at Nelson Mandela Sports Gym. , Zwara
Ittihad - Shabab 79-70 at Cortoba Sports Gym. ,Tripoli

The game between Ittihad and defending champion Shabab could be called game of the season for both teams.
The stake was very high as many experts predict it could be almost championship final game.
There were no surprises as it was actually the best game of this season so far.
1st & 2nd quarters were very close and the lead was changed 9 times. Ittihad won that period slightly with two point lead (21-19).
In the first minutes of the 2nd quarter Ittihad managed to extend their lead to 7 points.
But two three-point shots of Shabab's Mohammed Issa and Eslam El Karbal (-83) reduced the point difference for Shabab and the 2nd quarter ended again with just two points lead 38-36 for Ittihad.
The 3rd quarter was a perfect start for Shabab having 16-5 run in just four minutes.
But Ittihad did not give up and after making some adjustments to the game, they scored 9 consecutive points, tieing the game 58-58.
Free throw made by Mohammed Issa and another two points by Sohaib Ftaita ended the 3rd quarter with Shahab's three point lead 61-58.
But it was 4th quarter, which decided the whole game. Ittihad speed up and took back control of the game.
Shabab managed to score just nine points in the entire quarter, while four points in the last minute.
At the other side Ittihad scored 21 points to secure the win and confirm the top spot in the league.

WEEK 19 Games :
Saturday :
Yarmok - Madina , Place : Cortoba Sports Gym. ,Tripoli
Tahade - Ahli Benghazi , Place : Solaiman Darat Sports Arena. , Benghazi
Wahda - Hilal , Place : Olymbe Sports Gym. , Zawia
Sunday :
Moroj - Naser , Place : Solaiman Darat Sports Arena. , Benghazi

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MEXICO

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. Leopardos	9-5
2. Dorados	9-5
3. Marineros	7-5
4. Peppers	5-7
5. Aluxes	0-12

Leopardos take the LBS lead -by Gianni Pascucci
Another banner performances from Harold Arceneaux (198-F-77, college: Weber St.), who scored 32 points, and Reggie Jordan (193-G-68, college: N.Mexico St.), who ended tha game at 28 pts and 17 rebs, allowed Leopardos de Merida to beat again Peppers on the road, 99-79. Thanks to thsi win, Leopardos took the lead in the Liga del Sureste standings, confirming themselves as the main challenger of Dorados for the league title. In the same time, Marineros defeated two times Aluxes, that are yet without any win. The LBS playoffs will start on June 14th.

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MONTENEGRO

Eurobasket.com All-Montenegrin League Awards 2007-08 -by Eurobasket

Otasevic

Dasic

Dasic

Gordic

Leric

Player of the Year - Nikola Otasevic (184-G-82) of BC Buducnost Podgorica
Guard of the Year - Nikola Otasevic (184-G-82) of BC Buducnost Podgorica
Forward of the Year - Vladimir Dasic (208-F-88) of BC Buducnost Podgorica
Center of the Year - Boris Lalovic (206-C-81) of KK Mogren Buvda (Mogren)
Co-Most Improved Player of the Year - Filip Barovic (205-F-90) of KK Niksic and Nemanja Radovic of KK Mornar Bar
Import Player of the Year - Nikola Otasevic (184-G-82) of BC Buducnost Podgorica
Domestic Player of the Year - Vladimir Dasic (208-F-88) of BC Buducnost Podgorica
Defensive Player of the Year - Vasilije Seferovic (193-G/F-85) of KK Danilovgrad
Coach of the Year - Dejan Radonjic of BC Buducnost Podgorica

1st Team
Nikola Otasevic (184-G-82) of BC Buducnost Podgorica
Nemanja Gordic (195-G-88) of BC Buducnost Podgorica
Vladimir Dasic (208-F-88) of BC Buducnost Podgorica
Samir Leric (204-F/C-74) of KK Mogren Buvda
Boris Lalovic (206-C-81) of KK Mogren Buvda

2nd Team
Petar Jovanovic (192-G/F-80) of KK Lovcen Cetinje
Vasilije Seferovic (193-G/F-85) of KK Danilovgrad
Goran Gajovic (199-G-88) of KK Niksic
Milos Komatina (205-C-84) of ABS Primorje Herceg Novi
Ivan Maras (209-C-86) of BC Buducnost Podgorica

Honorable Mention
Aleksandar Radulovic (207-C-84) of KK Danilovgrad
Radoje Durkovic (202-F/C-87) of KK Niksic
Nemanja Vranjes (188-G/F-88) of KK Niksic
Aleksa Popovic (201-G/F-87) of KK Lovcen Cetinje

All-Domestic Players Team
Petar Jovanovic (192-G/F-80) of KK Lovcen Cetinje
Vasilije Seferovic (193-G/F-85) of KK Danilovgrad
Goran Gajovic (199-G-88) of KK Niksic
Milos Komatina (205-C-84) of ABS Primorje Herceg Novi
Boris Lalovic (206-C-81) of KK Mogren Buvda

All-Imports Team
Nikola Otasevic (184-G-82) of BC Buducnost Podgorica
Nemanja Gordic (195-G-88) of BC Buducnost Podgorica
Aleksandar Smiljanic (196-G-76) of KK Mogren Buvda
Danilo Palalic (200-F-82) of Mogren Budva
Samir Leric (204-F/C-74) of KK Mogren Buvda

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NEW ZEALAND

Auckland book postseason birth -by Eurobasket News
The Auckland Stars got away with a narrow 78:76 victory over the Otago Nuggets to secure the playoff appearance. Thus they also eliminated the Dynamos Taranaki from the playoff race. The Stars dominated the start of the game in Dunedin building a 48:40 advantage at halftime. However the Nuggets recovered after the break and almost denied the deficit. They trailed by just two points in the final seconds with Brent Charleton (194-G-82) having a chance to win it for the hosts. However his three-pointer rimmed out and the Stars snatched a vital win in the fight for the playoff spot. Adrian Majstrovich (202-F/G-80) knocked down 37 points to lead all scorers. Reece Cassidy (200-F/G-82) added 11 points for the winners. Brent Charleton put on a leading role for the Nuggets who played without Lemar Gayle. He finished with 27 points. Antoine Tisby had 24 points and 15 boards in a loss.
Meanwhile the Wellington Saints completed the regular season in style thrashing the Manawatu Jets 117:78 in Palmerston North. The Saints who had previously booked the regular season title used their deepest reserves in this one. Nevertheless it never influenced the outcome as the Saints led by 20 points at the long break. The visitors stretched the gap to 30 points before the fourth period and never looked back again. Ernest Scott (200-F-82, agency: Elfus-Siegel Management (ESM), college: Valdosta St.), Nick Horvath (208-F/C-81, college: Duke) and Troy McLean (194-G-79) led the Saints with 18 points each. Kevin Owens provided 14 points for the winners. Keith Davis (198-F-82) was impressive for the Jets tallying 25 points, 11 boards and 9 steals. Kantrail Horton added 20 points in defeat.

Standings Men

NBL Standings

1. Wellington	14-4
2. Waikato	12-5
3. Harbour Heat	11-6
4. Nelson	10-6
5. G&H Hawks	9-7
6. Auckland	9-7
7. Taranaki	7-9
8. Canterbury	5-12
9. Manawatu	4-12
10. Otago	2-15

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NIGERIA

Union Bank lands in Kano confront, AHIP, Pillars -by Olusegun Ikuesan
Its pay back time, Union Bank Technical Adviser, A�¦It will be a repeat performance, Pillars coach

Union Bank basketball club of Lagos is set to round off its road games to the Savannah Conference of the Nigeria Premier League with games against Adolescent Health & Information Programme, AHIP basketball club Saturday (today) and Kano Pillars basketball club Sunday.

Both matches are billed for the Sports Hall of the Sani Abacha Stadium, Kofa Mata, in the ancient city of Kano promises to live up to its billing as Union Bank technical adviser, Ayinla Johnson and Pillars coach Sani Ahmed talks tough.

Union Bank who defeated Tapgun Rockets basketball club of Jos in one of it road game leaving three to the League and Technical Committee (Vs Niger Potters, Vs Plateau Peaks and Vs Bauchi Net) to decide whether they will be awarded the points or forfeit those games files out against youthful AHIP side in the hot Kano weather today.

Though pundits will rightly give it to the bankers against a Harry Ezenibe propelled AHIP side going by the pedigree of both sides but one must also be mindful of the fact that basketball is a game of five players from either side on the court at a given time, while the AHIP side will bank on home support to rattle the bankers, the Ayinla Johnson and Gboyega Vidal tutored Union Bank will bank on its legion of experience players to steal victory at the end of hostility.

And against Pillars on Sunday at same venue, Coach Johnson says his team will pay the host back in its own coin having lost to the Coach Sani Ahmed tutored side in Lagos (71-67points) when the former came for their road game.

Speaking in an exclusive telephone chat with our correspondent the former Nigeria International believed his side (Union Bank) have overcome the shortcoming in the team which characterized in some painful loses.

But Pillars coach has a word for the star-studded bankers that they should be prepared for another defeat.

'We will repeat what we achieve in Lagos and so Union Bank should forget talking about being in Kano to beat us, concluded Coach Ahmed.Adesola Alayande (183-G-84)

*****************************************************
PARAGUAY

Metropolitan league updating -by Gianni Pascucci
Universidad Catolica (UCA), Sportivo San Lorenzo, Universidad Autonoma (UAA) and Olimpia will play the third leg of Metro League 2008. On thursday night, Universidad Catolica defeated Universidad Autonoma 74-71 to keep its lead in the standings, and Sportivo San Lorenzo eliminated Ciudad Nueva beating this team 63-52. Veteran player Luis Fernando Dose (201-F/C-65) scored 30 points to lead San Lorenzo, showing to be yet in great form at 42. The classification is now:
1. UCA 7 points,
2. San Lorenzo 6.75,
3. UAA 4,50,
4. Olimpia 4,
5. Ciudad Nueva 4.
The last round of games will be UAA-Olimpia and San Lorenzo-UCA, and each of these teams will earn al least one point, eliminating Ciudad Nueva.

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POLAND

Gurovic is coming back -by Piotr Biernikowicz

Serbian star of Prokom Trefl Sopot Milan Gurovic (207-F-76, agency: Beo Basket) is coming back for tonight's game vs. PGE Turow Zgorzelec. He got one game suspension after hitting Thomas Kelati in game number 4. The Polish Basketball League has fined also Thomas Kelati (195-G/F-82, college: Washington St.) and Iwo Kitzinger (188-G-85) and both Clubs.

Fines after the game number 4:

Milan Gurovic - 9500USD plus one game suspension

Iwo Kitzinger - 4750 USD

Thomas Kelati - 1400 USD

Prokom Trefl Sopot - 10000 USD

PGE Turow Zgorzelec - 7000 USD

Prokom has won the fifth game without Gurovic 66:59 and they lead in the finals 3:2 in the best of seven.

Play-off final: Prokom - Turow 3-3 ! -by Eurobasket News
PGE Turow Zgorzelec made one more fantastic victory beating Prokom Trefl Sopot on the road 74-69 and tied the score in the play-off final on 3-3. Thus game number seven between these two rivals will decide who will be the next champion of Poland. Turow's chances are slightly better because the team from Zgorzelec will play at their home court.

Visitors opened the game much better making 2-7 at the early beginning. They let Prokom to score only 8 points in the first period. Logan and Andres Rodriguez (182-G-81, college: American) were key players for their team at the first stanza. For just three minutes of the second quarter Prokom came closer on 15-16. But, thanks to Drobnjak and Petrovic, Turow finished first half with plus 1. At the third quarter visitors had advantage of 4-6 points almost the entire time and they went into the last quarter with 48-52. Prokom had terrible percentage for FG2 as they had just 13/35. On the other side Turow scored 14 of 27 attempts. Interesting is that Prokom totally outrebounded its opponent having 15 more rebounds but it was not enough for the win. Turow succeeded to keep its advantage until the end and they will have fantastic chance to fight for the title at their home court in Zgorzelec.
Andres Rodriguez paced the winners collecting 21 points, 5 rebounds and 5 assists. Dragisa Drobnjak (200-F-77, agency: VTBM/SRBM) also shined adding 19 points and 5 boards. Serbian star Milan Gurovic (207-F-76, agency: Beo Basket) returned after suspension netting 16 points and 7 rebounds for Prokom, who also got 14 points and 7 rebounds from Filip Dylewicz (202-F-80, agency: Beo Basket). Croatian point guard Igor Milicic (194-G-76) scored 15 points.

Name of the new champion of Poland will be known on Wednesday.

Prokom Trefl Sopot - PGE Turow Zgorzelec 69-74
(8-14,23-18,17-20,21-22)

Prokom: Gurovic 16 (7 rebs), Milicic 15, Dylewicz 14 (7 rebs), Slanina 11 (5 rebs)
Turow: Rodriguez 21 (5 rebs, 5 as), Drobnjak 19 (5 rebs), Logan 11, Kelati 10

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PORTUGAL

Proliga finals game 3 -by Luis Rocha
Fisica won today at home 96-79, over Vitoria, and tomorrow can get the championship. Fisica has done a terrific season far better then many expected. In the playoff they are playing greatly getting they're advantages in position 1 where Miguel Barroca (182-G-84) is performing at top level, and always taking advantage over Carlos Fechas (180-G-81). The inside game of Vitoria (much more powerfull) is not at is best, Pedro Silva (198-F-79) seems tired and very slow, and Marcel Momplaisir (205-C-81, college: Rhode Island) takes profit on a quicker pace and agility. Today Fisica made a great first quartertaking a 17 point lead, but in the second Vitoria reduce the margin to 7. Although playing with all their soul the Guimaraes team couldn't find a way to win and and at the end the result is a good image of the game. Kendell Craig (188-G-80, college: Adelphi) was the game MVP, with 29 points, 11 rebounds and 3 steals. Tomorrow last chance for Vitoria, that will try to avoid the first match ball of Fisica.

Eurobasket.com All-Portuguese Proliga Awards 2007-08 -by Eurobasket

Eddie

Barroca

Foss

Winchester

Silva

Player of the Year - Tommie Eddie

(201-F/C-82, college: Mississippi) of Vitoria SC/M.Couto Alves
Guard of the Year - Miguel Barroca (182-G-84) of Fisica Desportiva T.Vedras
Forward of the Year - Bryan Foss (201-F-83) of Queluz Sintra Patrimonio Mundial
Center of the Year - Tommie Eddie (201-F/C-82) of Vitoria SC/M.Couto Alves
Newcomer of the Year - Marco Goncalves (208-C-84) of Sport Lisboa Benfica
Most Improved Player of the Year - Marco Goncalves (208-C-84) of Sport Lisboa Benfica
Bosman Player of the Year - Arnette Hallman (199-F-88) of Sport Lisboa Benfica
Import Player of the Year - Tommie Eddie (201-F/C-82) of Vitoria SC/M.Couto Alves
Domestic Player of the Year - Miguel Barroca (182-G-84) of Fisica Desportiva T.Vedras
Defensive Player of the Year - Tommie Eddie (201-F/C-82) of Vitoria SC/M.Couto Alves
Coach of the Year - Fernando Sa of Vitoria SC/M.Couto Alves

1st Team
Miguel Barroca (182-G-84) of Fisica Desportiva T.Vedras
John Winchester (193-G-83) of Vitoria SC/M.Couto Alves
Bryan Foss (201-F-83) of Queluz Sintra Patrimonio Mundial
Pedro Silva (198-F-79) of Vitoria SC/M.Couto Alves
Tommie Eddie (201-F/C-82) of Vitoria SC/M.Couto Alves

2nd Team
Miguel Minhava (197-G-83) of Sport Lisboa Benfica
Daniel Felix (183-G-82) of Illiabum
Justin Marshall (203-F-85) of Sampaense/Tec.Coimbra
Jamaal Moore (197-F-83) of Cv.Alianca Sangalhos
Ekjersey Viana (203-F/C-77) of Fisica Desportiva T.Vedras

Honorable Mention
Marcel Momplaisir (205-C-81) of Fisica Desportiva T.Vedras
Antonio Tavares (183-G-75) of Sport Lisboa Benfica
Byron Sanders (207-C-83) of Queluz Sintra Patrimonio Mundial
Malcolm Thomas (192-F-85) of Illiabum
Ben Frederick (208-C-84) of Esgueira / Oli
Joao Moreira (200-C-85) of Maia Basket
Wayne Nelson (193-F-81) of Angra/Susiarte/Samsung

All-Domestic Players Team
Miguel Barroca (182-G-84) of Fisica Desportiva T.Vedras
Miguel Minhava (197-G-83) of Sport Lisboa Benfica
Daniel Felix (183-G-82) of Illiabum
Pedro Silva (198-F-79) of Vitoria SC/M.Couto Alves
Ekjersey Viana (203-F/C-77) of Fisica Desportiva T.Vedras

All-Imports Team
John Winchester (193-G-83) of Vitoria SC/M.Couto Alves
Bryan Foss (201-F-83) of Queluz Sintra Patrimonio Mundial
Justin Marshall (203-F-85) of Sampaense/Tec.Coimbra
Jamaal Moore (197-F-83) of Cv.Alianca Sangalhos
Tommie Eddie (201-F/C-82) of Vitoria SC/M.Couto Alves

All-Defensive Team
Miguel Minhava (197-G-83) of Sport Lisboa Benfica
Daniel Felix (183-G-82) of Illiabum
Marcel Momplaisir (205-C-81) of Fisica Desportiva T.Vedras
Pedro Silva (198-F-79) of Vitoria SC/M.Couto Alves
Tommie Eddie (201-F/C-82) of Vitoria SC/M.Couto Alves

All-Newcomers Team
Tiago Pinto (183-G-88) of Queluz Sintra Patrimonio Mundial
Renato Loio (180-G-89) of Esgueira / Oli
Tiago Pinheiro (187-G-87) of Sport Lisboa Benfica
Cristovao Cordeiro (201-F/C-89) of Queluz Sintra Patrimonio Mundial
Marco Goncalves (208-C-84) of Sport Lisboa Benfica

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PUERTO RICO

Andres Rodriguez is a short step away from the title in Poland -by Eurobasket News
Point guard Andres Rodriguez (182-G-81, college: American) of PGE Turow Zgorzelec had fantastic night against Prokom Trefl Sopot on the road 74-69 leading his team to game number 7 of the play-off final. He was unstoppable for Prokom's guards collecting 21 points, 5 rebounds and 5 assists for 32 minutes. Current score in the play-off final series is 3-3 and Turow will play the 7th decisive game at their home court.

Turow is the most pleasant surprise this year in Poland. They finished regular season on top with 17 wins and 7 defeats. The same score had Prokom but Turow was better in two games against current Polish champion.

Turow started tonight's game vs Prokom in style making 2-7. Their defense looked very good at the first ten minutes as Prokom scored just 8 points. Andres Rodrigues was the key player for his team during the first period. Later Prokom showed a bit better performance but still Turow went into the second quarter with minimum advantage. Andres Rodriguez was a real team leader as he successfully organized every single play of his team. Third quarter also belonged to Turow, who had advantage of 4-6 points. They kept it without problems until the end mostly owing to Rodriguez and Slovenian Dragisa Drobnjak.

Andres Rodriguez had 37 appearances for Turow this season averaging 7.1 ppg, 2.7 rpg and 4.6 apg. He got prestigious award Eurobasket.com All-Polish League Defensive Player of the Year -07.

Arecibo Captains back on track -by Luis Ramirez
After losing three game in a row the Arecibo Captains returned to their winning ways as they beat the Guaynabo Conquistadors 103-95 in overtime. The game started out with Guaynabo taking the first quarter 23-20. In the 2nd quarter it was the Captains that reclaimed the lead as the 1st half closed 49-47 in favor of the Captains. Arecibo played a good defensive game in the 3rd quarter to maintain the lead at the end of the quarter, but in the 4th quarter the Conquistadors came back strong to tie the game and send it to overtime. In the overtime period the Captains outscored the Conquistadors 14-6 to take the game. For Arecibo, Bobby Joe Hatton (187-G-76, college: Marist) scored 21 points followed by Angel Figueroa with 19 points and 14 rebounds. For Guaynabo, Carlos Escalera (190-G-79, agency: Paris Global Sports, college: Missouri So.) scored 23 points followed by Carmelo Antrone Lee with 20 points.

In the other Super 6 game, the Fajardo Cariduros remain winless in post season play as the Carolina Giants beat the Fajardo Cariduros 108-102. The game was played at an even pace in the 1st quarter as each team scored 28 points. The Cariduros took the 2nd quarter 26-22 to take the lead at the end of the 1st half. In the 3rd quarter the Carolina Giants once again took control of the game as the quarter ended 79-74 in favor of the Giants. The 4th quarter was played at a very even pace but the Giants had done enough damage to keep their lead and coast to the win. For Carolina, Alejandro Carmona (194-G/F-83, agency: Next Level) scored 27 points with 10 rebounds followed by Ebi Ere with 24 points. For Fajardo, Gabe Muoneke (200-F-78, college: Texas) scored 44 points and had 13 rebounds to lead all players in the game.

Standings - BSN

BSN Standings

Super 6
1. Carolina	15
2. Santurce	14
3. Arecibo	12
4. Guaynabo	11
5. Caguas	10
6. Fajardo	7
Others
1. Bayamon	16-16
2. Humacao	16-16
3. Ponce	15-17
4. San German	15-17
5. Mayaguez	7-25
6. Guayama	6-26

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SERBIA

Who will be the last semifinalist, Vojvodina Srbijagas or Crvena Zvezda ? -by Dragan Jankovski
Vojvodina Srbijagas waits for Crvena Zvezda in Novi Sad tonight at 20h in the most important game of the Superleague round 14. Vojvodina is currently on 5th place with 7 wins and 6 defeats. On the other side Crvena Zvezda is fourth ranked team with score 8-5. Tonight's game will be the last one of the season for one of these two teams. Vojvodina already reached its target for this season, what was to earn a spot for Adriatic league 08/09 but participation at the play-off semifinals will be one more step forward for them. Calculation is simple, Vojvodina have to beat Crvena Zvezda with more than 16 points in order to finish regular season on fourth place. It sounds simple but it will be very difficult job for the Tulips even they will play on their home court 'Spens'.

'It is very difficult job just to beat Zvezda with 1 point so what I can say for plus 17. But my team showed many times this season that we are fighters. First of all we will try to make a victory and if there is any opportunity we will look to create advantage we need for the play-off. Miracles is not happening every day but still they are happening and we hope one will happen tonight. We have a chance, we are motivated and we will give our best tonight' - said Ivica Mavrenski, head coach of Vojvodina Srbijagas.

Head coach of Crvena Zvezda, Milan Skobalj said: 'We are prepared for tonight and we know it won't be an easy game for sure. Despite we don't have a must to win, contrary we can afford defeat with even 16 points, we will try to celebrate tonight. Tulips for sure are looking forward to reach the semis. We have some troubles with injured players. Namely, Tadija Dragicevic has slight knee injury yet and the same situation is with Boris Bakic. Mladjan Sljivancanin feels pain in his back while Marko Lekic had some problems with his palm. But anyway those injuries are not the excuse. Our main goal tonight is to finish regular season on position number 4.'

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SLOVENIA

Helios beat Olimpija, tied series 1-1 -by Zeljko Zule
Helios trailed by 72-80 with 4:22 remaining and used a 18-4 run over the next three minutes to make it 90-84 and finally defeated Union Olimpija 93-88 in Game 2 of Play-Off Finals. Helios held Union Olimpija to two field goals in last four minutes and went 9-of-10 from the foul line. Robert Troha (194-G/F-77) 9 of his 27 points scored in that period, Jack Ingram finished with 16 points and 8 rebounds and Jure Mocnik collected 11 points, 7 assists and 5 rebounds while Jasmin Hukic netted 23 points on shooting 8-of-9 from the field, Miha Zupan posted 18 points, Maurice Bailey 12 and Ronell Taylor 11 for Olimpija.
The best-of-five series is now tied at 1-1 with Game 3 on Wednesday in Ljubljana.

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TURKEY

Turk Telecom pay back at home -by Eurobasket News
Turk Telecom - Fenerbahce 87:75

Fenerbahce failed to gain the third straight win in the TBL Finals. After two wins in Istanbul Fenerbahce were beaten in Ankara. Turk Telecom cut the deficit to 1-2 in the best-of-seven series and would try to even things in Game 4 tomorrow. The game was once again a heated battle with Fenerbahce trying to get things solved early in the series. But Turk Telecom's American imports looked impressive on the night. The teams entered the game firing from all guns and traded baskets for some time early in the encounter. The hosts still managed to spur ahead late in the frame and enjoyed a 27:24 advantage at the first intermission. Mirsad Turkcan tied things up at 27 at the start of the second frame. However Kris Lang (211-F/C-79, agency: SportsTalent, college: N.Carolina) and Khalid El-Amin (178-G-79, agency: Beo Basket, college: Connecticut) quickly ignited a rally that put the home team up by 10 points. The home side maintained the distance and went into the dressing room leading 51:41. Khalid El-Amin and Erwin Dudley (204-F/C-81, agency: Interperformances, college: Alabama) kept the scoring list rolling for Turk Telecom as they kept Fenerbahce at 10-point distance. Finally Willie Solomon and James White teamed up for several offensive plays to cut the deficit to 7 points before the fourth term. Haluk Yildirim (200-F-72, agency: Interperformances) put Turk Telecom up by 9 points at the beginning of the final frame. However Samih Erden fueled a 9:0 run from the visitors that evened things up at 73 apiece. Kris Lang and Haluk Yildirim answered with 4 straight points for Turk Telecom to retain the lead for the home team. Later Turk Telecom accounted for two more points to gain a 6-point cushion which proved unassailable for the visiting side. Kris Lang came up with 25 points and 8 boards to pace Turk Telecom. Khalid El-Amin knocked down 24 points and dished out 8 assists, while Erwin Dudley scored 16 points for the winners. Omer Asik (211-C-86) answered with 16 points and 10 boards for Fenerbahce. Semih Erden (211-C-87) contributed 13 points in a losing case.

Turk Telecom: Kris Lang 25, Khalid El-Amin 24, Erwin Dudley 16
Fenerbahce: Omer Asik 16+10 boards, Semih Erden 13

Market news -by Sinan Can
Turkish market opened with various coach moves by the end of may. First big move came from Ergin Ataman as succesful coach who left Besiktas, signed 2 years deal with Efes Pilsen. Another coach transaction is happened between Pinar Karsiyaka and Mersin. Ahmet Kandemir of Pinar Karsiyaka signed with mediterrenean team who were stayed out of Play-Off's with Ahmet Caki. After Kandemir's leaving, Pinar Karsiyaka is in the market for a coach first. Out of real things, there were some rumours too. It's been said that Erman Kunter will be the new coach of Galatasaray for 2008-2009 season. There had been no confirmation from both club an Kunter but a change at Galatasaray is strongly expected.

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Women News

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AUSTRALIA - Women

Jackson shines in Key Arena -by Eurobasket News
Lauren Jackson (196-F/C-81) scored 28 points and the Seattle Storm overcame San Antonio 78:57 at the Key Arena. The victory saw the Storm improve to 4-1 record to tie the best record in the franchise history. Jackson opened the game in a slashing manner scoring 10 quick points as the hosts went on a 14:0 run. The Silver Stars meanwhile had a woeful start missing their first 15 field goals. Seattle grabbed a comfortable advantage leading 39:23 at halftime. The Storm continued their onslaught in the second half never allowing the visitors closer than double-digit distance. Swin Cash came up with 14 points, while Tanisha White scored 10 in a winning case. Ann Wauters and Sophia Young answered with 14 points apiece in a loss. Erin Buescher dropped 10 points for the Silver Stars as they fell to 2-2 record.
Tully Bevilaqua (164-G-72) and Indiana Fever needed two overtimes to edge the Los Angeles Sparks 82:78 at home yesterday. The Fever posted their 3rd win in the season despite some late heroics from Candace Parker. Tennessee graduate almost saved the day for the Sparks scoring 6 points in the last minute of the second overtime but the Fever held off the visitors at the end. The Fever led by as many as 15 points at halftime keeping Candace Parker scoreless. But the visitors recovered in the second half and surged ahead late in the fourth period. Bernadette Ngoyisa knocked down a jumper to force overtime. The teams traded baskets in the first extra period and Hoffman's jumper sealed the outcome at 69:69. LaTanya White opened the second overtime with 5 straight points and Hoffman added two more to give the Fever a 76:69 lead. Candace Parker then came up with 6 points for the Sparks to keep the intrigue burning but LaTanya White ensured the winning outcome with a layup and two accurate freebies for the hosts. Katie Douglas led the home side with 25 points. LaTanya White added 20 points and 10 boards, while Bernadette Ngoyisa had 14 points and 9 boards for the winners. Tully Bevilaqua collected 5 points, 5 rebounds and 5 assists. Lisa Leslie secured 19 points and 9 boards as the Sparks suffered their first loss in the season.

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FRANCE - Women

Gruda opens the season for Sun -by Eurobasket News
Sandrine Gruda (192-F/C-87) played her first game this season in WNBA for her Sun. In her first game she provided 2 points for her Connecticut Sun over Indiana. The latter plagued Connecticut 46:75. Katie Douglas notched 23 points to lead the Fever to an impressive success. Katie Douglas played for the Sun for 5 seasons before she was traded to Indiana. Douglas fired 14 of her points in the first half to carry Indiana to a 46:24 lead at halftime. The Fever never looked back again and improved to 2-1 record in the season. Tan White added 15 points, while Hoffman had 8 points and 13 boards for the winning side. Lindsay Whalen answered with 13 points for the Sun.
The Connecticut Sun rebounded well after the starting loss of the season to Indiana to march past New York yesterday. Tamika Whitmore scored 18 points to lead the charge for the Sun. Asjha Jones added 16 points and 8 boards, while Lindsay Whalen provided 15 points as the Sun improved to 4-1 record. Connecticut jumped to an early lead and completed the first frame ahead by 12 points. The Liberty failed to recover in the reminder of the affair and suffered the third loss in the season. Essence Carson scored 15 points for the Liberty. Shameka Christon and Cathrine Kraayeveld notched 12 points each in a loss. Sandrine Gruda ended up with 6 points and 2 rebounds for 10 minutes in the court.

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HUNGARY - Women

Eurobasket.com All-Hungarian League Awards 2007-08 -by Eurobasket

Gorbunova

Ivanyi

Podrug

Fegyverneky

Tomova

Player of the Year - Olexandra Gorbunova (186-F-86) of MKB Euroleasing Sopron
Guard of the Year - Dalma Ivanyi (178-G-76) of MiZo Pecs
Forward of the Year - Olexandra Gorbunova (186-F-86) of MKB Euroleasing Sopron
Center of the Year - Emilja Podrug (190-C-79) of MiZo Pecs 2010
Newcomer of the Year - Zsofia Varga (182-F-89) of Kanizsai Vadmacskak
Most Improved Player of the Year - Nikolett Turoczi (187-F/C-80) of ZTE-Zala Volan
Bosman Player of the Year - Milena Tomova (191-F-82) of Szeviep Szeged
Import Player of the Year - Olexandra Gorbunova (186-F-86) of MKB Euroleasing Sopron
Domestic Player of the Year - Dalma Ivanyi (178-G-76) of MiZo Pecs
Defensive Player of the Year - Zsofia Fegyverneky (178-G-84) of MiZo Pecs 2010
Coach of the Year - Norbert Szekely of MKB Euroleasing Sopron

1st Team
Dalma Ivanyi (178-G-76) of MiZo Pecs
Zsofia Fegyverneky (178-G-84) of MiZo Pecs 2010
Olexandra Gorbunova (186-F-86) of MKB Euroleasing Sopron
Milena Tomova (191-F-82) of Szeviep Szeged
Emilja Podrug (190-C-79) of MiZo Pecs 2010

2nd Team
Angela Djelmis (173-G-75) of BSE Budapest
Molly Creamer (177-G-81) of ZTE-Zala Volan
Zsofia Varga (182-F-89) of Kanizsai Vadmacskak
Anna Vajda (191-F/C-84) of MiZo Pecs 2010
Lidiya Milkova (192-C-70) of ZTE-Zala Volan

Honorable Mention
Andrea Karolyi (183-F/G-75) of MKB Euroleasing Sopron
Tiffani Williams (200-C-84) of Cegledi EKK
Zsofia Koncz (184-F-85) of Vasas-Csata Budapest
Monika Bukovszki (171-G-79) of Atomeromu-Szekszard
Bernadett Nemeth (173-G-80) of MKB Euroleasing Sopron
Albena Branzova (192-F/C-71) of MKB Euroleasing Sopron

All-Domestic Players Team
Dalma Ivanyi (178-G-76) of MiZo Pecs
Zsofia Fegyverneky (178-G-84) of MiZo Pecs 2010
Andrea Karolyi (183-F/G-75) of MKB Euroleasing Sopron
Anna Vajda (191-F/C-84) of MiZo Pecs 2010
Nikolett Turoczi (187-F/C-80) of ZTE-Zala Volan

All-Imports Team
Angela Djelmis (173-G-75) of BSE Budapest
Molly Creamer (177-G-81) of ZTE-Zala Volan
Olexandra Gorbunova (186-F-86) of MKB Euroleasing Sopron
Milena Tomova (191-F-82) of Szeviep Szeged
Emilja Podrug (190-C-79) of MiZo Pecs 2010

All-Bosmans Team
Bronislava Borovickova (170-G-80) of Seat Foton Gyor
Ivelina Vrantcheva (175-G-82) of Szeviep Szeged
Magdalena Kozdron (173-F-80) of Szolnoki NKK
Milena Tomova (191-F-82) of Szeviep Szeged
Albena Branzova (192-F/C-71) of MKB Euroleasing Sopron

All-Defensive Team
Dalma Ivanyi (178-G-76) of MiZo Pecs
Zsofia Fegyverneky (178-G-84) of MiZo Pecs 2010
Katalin Honti (178-G-87) of MKB Euroleasing Sopron
Andrea Karolyi (183-F/G-75) of MKB Euroleasing Sopron
Emilja Podrug (190-C-79) of MiZo Pecs 2010

All-Newcomers Team
Krisztina Pungor (170-G-85) of Cegledi EKK
Viktoria Szabo (178-G-85) of SAVARIA BC-Szombathely
Zsofia Varga (182-F-89) of Kanizsai Vadmacskak
Zsofia Koncz (184-F-85) of Vasas-Csata Budapest
Nikolett Turoczi (187-F/C-80) of ZTE-Zala Volan

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ISRAEL - Women

Ayana Walker joins Holon -by Eurobasket News
Ayana Walker (191-F/C-79, college: Louisiana Tech) decided to continue her career in Holon next season. The team will be the 5th working place for Ayana Walker in 6 years she played in Israel. Ayana Walker tipped off her Israeli career in 2003 when she played for Ramla. American import led Ramla to the championship as well as Cup titles. She then moved to Ramat Hen before joining Maccabi Tel Aviv in 2005. She once again celebrated the Israeli championship this time with Maccabi. Last season Walker spent with Ashdod where she averaged 20.1 points and 11.6 boards per game. She made it to the league's First Team. Walker had stints with Tarbes in France as well as in the WNBA with the Detroit and Charlotte. She won the WNBA title in 2003 together with the Shock.
In the meantime Israeli National team captain Liad Suez-Karni (191-F/C-81, college: Villanova) signed to play for Electra Ramat Hasharon. She played for the team in 2003 winning the championship and the cup with them. In 2004 she began studying overseas at Villanova University. She played for the college team for four years averaging 14.9 points and 5.2 boards per game in her senior season. Suez-Karni then moved to Poland to play for Wisla Krakow. After the stint in Poland Liad Suez-Karni travelled to France to play for Nice.
Ramat Hasharon also extended the contract of Mirav Dori (178-F-86) for one more year. Dori averaged 5.8 points with the team in the last season.
Ramat Hen announced the new head coach shortly after the team decided to axe Anan Inbar. Edne Dagnar will now be at the helm of the team that finished with 13-10 record in the last season. Edne Dagnar previously coached Ramla in the second men's division.

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NCAA1 - Women

The Tar Heels completes exciting European tour -by Eurobasket News
The University of North Carolina basketball team just recently went on a fascinating basketball trip to Europe. There the Tar Heels played three friendly games in England, France and Switzerland. The college team started their journey in the UK where they took on UK Select Team. North Carolina opened the game confidently and grabbed a 24:16 lead after the starting frame. The Tar Heels controlled the rhythm further on and accumulated an unassailable 23-point cushion before the final term. The UK Select Team could not recover in the fourth term and lost 68:94. Cetera Degraffenreid (5'6''-G) led all scorers with 27 points and 5 assists. Rashanda McCants (6'1''-G/F) and Iman McFarland provided 15 points apiece for the winners. Particia Da Silva answered with 17 points for the hosts. Joanna Clayden (6'0''-G-84, college: Auburn) had 12 points in a losing effort.
Then the college ladies travelled to France to face French Junior National team. The game was held at the National Institute of Sport and Physical Education in Paris. The Tar Heels once again jumped to an early lead and never gave it up. The US team comfortably rolled to a 73:59 victory at the end to improve to 2-0 on the tour. Rashanda McCants led the charge with 31 points. Jessica Breland (6'3''-F) produced 13 points and 7 boards, while Italee Lucas (5'8''-G-89) tallied 9 assists and 8 boards in a winning case.
Next North Carolina team moved to Luzern, Switzerland. There they played against Swiss National team. This time failed to surge ahead in the starting frame. The teams traded baskets and headed into the second term all tied at 17. Swiss team went on a 22:8 run to cap the second frame and clinched a 54:40 lead at halftime. The Tar Heels remained competitive and outscored the hosts 28:16 in the third quarter to cut the deficit to 2 points. Heather Claytor drained a three-pointer to give North Carolina a 71:70 lead early in the fourth stanza. The visitors kept leading for some time before Karen Twehues (6'0''-G-83, college: Cincinnati) and Bettina Mueller (5'6''-G-82) took over. Thwehues cut the deficit and then Mueller knocked down back-to-back trebles to give Switzerland lead for good. Karen Twehues topscored with 32 points for Swiss team. Marielle Giroud (5'11''-F/C-87) finished with 20 points and 12 boards for the winners. Rashanda McCants answered with 24 points and 9 boards for the Tar Heels. Italee Lucas dropped 14 points in a loss.

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NEW ZEALAND - Women

Spain overwhelm New Zealand in Valencia -by Eurobasket News
Spain - New Zealand 77:58

New Zealand continued their European tour as they took on Spain in Valencia in the second game. Spain that is fifth-ranked in the world looked more fresh and energetic throughout the encounter and deservedly posted a confident victory. Tall Ferns scored the first two points of the game but it was the only lead of the game they enjoyed. Spanish side answered with 8 straight points to gain the advantage for good in this one. The hosts held their opponents to just 9 points in the starting frame and piled up a 9-point lead. The situation hardly changed in the second term. A tight defense allowed Spanish team to control the tempo and keep the Kiwis at bay. The home side widened the margin to 12 points at halftime. Tall Ferns struggled to come any closer after the break and trailed by as many as 15 points before the final frame. Spain coasted to an overall win in the final minutes. Ana Montanana (186-F-80, college: George Washington) scored 17 points to lead the winning side. Amaya Valdemoro (184-F-76) added 16 points for Spaniards. Angela Marino (166-G-86) led the Kiwis with 18 points. Lisa Wallbutton (183-F-86) scored 14 points, while Natalie Purcell (183-F-82, college: SE Missouri St.) pulled down 10 boards. Jillian Harmon (185-F-87) that led Tall Ferns against Angola was limited to just 2 points on 1/5 field goal shooting. New Zealand shot only 36% from the field including 2/10 from downtown. They also committed 18 turnovers down the stretch. Tall Ferns will now take on Japan in Valencia. Later they will travel to Madrid to face Angola once again.

Spain: Ana Montanana 17, Amaya Valdemoro 16
New Zealand: Angela Marino 18, Lisa Wallbutton 14

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SPAIN - Women

Spain overwhelm New Zealand in Valencia -by Eurobasket News
Spain - New Zealand 77:58

New Zealand continued their European tour as they took on Spain in Valencia in the second game. Spain that is fifth-ranked in the world looked more fresh and energetic throughout the encounter and deservedly posted a confident victory. Tall Ferns scored the first two points of the game but it was the only lead of the game they enjoyed. Spanish side answered with 8 straight points to gain the advantage for good in this one. The hosts held their opponents to just 9 points in the starting frame and piled up a 9-point lead. The situation hardly changed in the second term. A tight defense allowed Spanish team to control the tempo and keep the Kiwis at bay. The home side widened the margin to 12 points at halftime. Tall Ferns struggled to come any closer after the break and trailed by as many as 15 points before the final frame. Spain coasted to an overall win in the final minutes. Ana Montanana (186-F-80, college: George Washington) scored 17 points to lead the winning side. Amaya Valdemoro (184-F-76) added 16 points for Spaniards. Angela Marino (166-G-86) led the Kiwis with 18 points. Lisa Wallbutton (183-F-86) scored 14 points, while Natalie Purcell (183-F-82, college: SE Missouri St.) pulled down 10 boards. Jillian Harmon (185-F-87) that led Tall Ferns against Angola was limited to just 2 points on 1/5 field goal shooting. New Zealand shot only 36% from the field including 2/10 from downtown. They also committed 18 turnovers down the stretch. Tall Ferns will now take on Japan in Valencia. Later they will travel to Madrid to face Angola once again.

Spain: Ana Montanana 17, Amaya Valdemoro 16
New Zealand: Angela Marino 18, Lisa Wallbutton 14

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WNBA - Women

Lauren Jackson propels the Storm past the Silver Stars -by Eurobasket News
Lauren Jackson (6'5''-F/C-81) scored 28 points and the Seattle Storm overcame San Antonio 78:57 at the Key Arena. The victory saw the Storm improve to 4-1 record to tie the best record in the franchise history. Jackson opened the game in a slashing manner scoring 10 quick points as the hosts went on a 14:0 run. The Silver Stars meanwhile had a woeful start missing their first 15 field goals. Seattle grabbed a comfortable advantage leading 39:23 at halftime. The Storm continued their onslaught in the second half never allowing the visitors closer than double-digit distance. Swin Cash came up with 14 points, while Tanisha White scored 10 in a winning case. Ann Wauters (6'5''-C-80) and Sophia Young (6'1''-F-83, college: Baylor) answered with 14 points apiece in a loss. Erin Buescher dropped 10 points for the Silver Stars as they fell to 2-2 record.
The Connecticut Sun rebounded well after the starting loss of the season to Indiana to march past New York yesterday. Tamika Whitmore (6'2''-C/F-77, college: Memphis) scored 18 points to lead the charge for the Sun. Asjha Jones added 16 points and 8 boards, while Lindsay Whalen provided 15 points as the Sun improved to 4-1 record. Connecticut jumped to an early lead and completed the first frame ahead by 12 points. The Liberty failed to recover in the reminder of the affair and suffered the third loss in the season. Essence Carson (6'0''-G/F-86, college: Rutgers) scored 15 points for the Liberty. Shameka Christon and Cathrine Kraayeveld notched 12 points each in a loss.
Nicole Powell (6'2''-G/F-82, college: Stanford) netted 16 points to carry the Sacramento Monarchs past the Houston Comets 73:66 at the ARCO Arena. The hosts built a 5-point cushion at the interval and survived fierce attempts from the Comets to save the game. Ticha Penicheiro and Laura Harper produced 11 points each to pace the winners. Houston were led by 14 points from Matee Ajavon (5'8''-G-86, college: Rutgers) and Tina Thompson (6'2''-F-75, agency: Merit Sports, college: USC).

Standings

WNBA Eastern Standings

1. Detroit S.	4-1
2. Connect. S.	4-1
3. Seattle S.	4-1
4. Minnesota L.	3-0
5. Indiana F.	3-1
6. L.Angeles S.	2-1
7. S.Antonio SS	2-2
8. Washingt. M.	2-2
9. Sacram. M.	2-3
10. Chicago Sky	1-2
11. New York L.	1-3
12. Charlotte S.	0-0
13. Phoenix M.	0-3
14. Houston C.	0-4