EUROBASKET NEWS REPORT - 6/12/2008

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Men News

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ARGENTINA

Market News (part 1) -by Leonardo Contieri
The league main teams are moving quickly to assemble their 2008/09 rosters. League Champion Libertad Sunchales has kept coach Julio Lamas and a bunch of players from their championship run, guard Pablo Moldu, Sebastian Ginobili and Marcos Saglietti will continue on the roster while injured guard Martin Muller will be back once gets in shape, until that time, Libertad confirmed it will keep using gusard Juan Pablo Sartorelli as a replacement. Libertad also re-signed forwar Andres Pelussi nad signed center Alejandro Zilli. They will try to keep guard/forward Mariano Cerutti and center Robert Battle. Atenas also moved quickly trying to get back to first places as they re-signed guards Bruno Labaque and Juan Pablo Figueroa, signed guards Federico Ferrini from El Nacional and Juan Manuel Locatelli from Penarol. They also re-signed center Diego Osella and signed two time league MVP Leonardo Gutierrez. Ruben Magnano returns after coaching in europe and will be assisted by Alejandro Lotterio. Penarol will keep coach Sergio Hernandez and several players from last season, guards Sebastian Rodriguez and Lucas Piccarelli will return as so will center Roman Gonzalez and forward Marcos Mata and Alejandro Diez. Byron Johnson, from Independiente will be one of the foreigners. Regatas Corrientes signed backup guard Luis Cequeira from Boca, they will keep Alejndro Montecchia, Roberto Lopez, Ramzee Stanton and Damian Tintorelli from last season and coach Silvio Santander will continue directing the team.

Liga A: Latest transactions -by Facundo Iatzky

Sionista Parana: resigned Juan Pablo Cantero (186-G-82), Alejandro Burgos and Agustin Carnovale and signed Eduardo Villares (186-G-79)
Atenas: resigned Diego Osella (207-F/C-69)
Penarol: Signed Byron Johnson (201-F/C-80, college: Belm.Abbey) and Jose Muruaga
Boca Jrs: resigned Gabriel Fernandez (204-C-76)
Libertad: signed Alejandro Zilli (200-F-82) Independiente: resigned Leandro Lauro


TNA:

Union sunchales: signed Gustavo Martin

Central Entrerriano hired Fabio Demti as head coach. Demti comes from Quimsa where he was runner up of LigaA.



Finally win for Roberto Gabini's Lottomatica Roma -by Eurobasket News
Roberto Gabini (198-F-75, agency: Interperformances) of Lottomatica Roma finally had a reason to celebrate. After three defeats in the final of Italian play-off, his team outsmarted Montepaschi Siena 84-70. Gabini and his teammates were already seen as a 4-0 loser in this final but they succeeded to stay in the race for the title in Serie A.

They was really close to win in the last game but Siena made fantastic turn taking lead 3-0 in series. This time Lottomatica did not let them to do the same. The hosts took control on Siena at the early beginning which resulted with 15-5 after 8 minutes. Their lead couldn't last long as the top ranked team of regular season woke up in the second frame tying the score on 39-39 before the breather. It happened once again, Gabini's team had bigger lead and Siena meted it without problems. It was a very difficult situation for the hosts but they continued third period very strong. Montepachi continued at the same way but the hosts were a little bit better entering into the last stanza with plus 3. At the beginning of the last 10 minutes Lottomatica intensified defense and thanks to Roko Leni Ukic and Ibrahim Jaaber made 9-2 run. Once again they had double digits lead and the question was will Siena be able to make a turn once again. It seems that Gabini and his teammates suffered enough during the last three games so they played very tough until the end strongly keeping their lead.

Jasmin Repesa once again named Roberto Gabini in the starting five letting him play the most in his team. He spent 29 minutes on court adding 9 points and 9 rebounds. Gabini finished the game shooting 2/3 FG, 1/2 from behind the arc and 2/2 free throws.

The next game will be played in Siena where Lottomatica is looking for another chance to come even close in the final series.

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BELGIUM

Flanders Basketball Trophy -by Peter Buyse

The Flanders Basketball Trophy is a unique event not be missed.
The 6th edition takes place in and around Gent on Aug 23 and 24th of this year.
This basketball tournament is without a doubt the biggest event in Belgium.
The organizers again expect between 130 and 140 teams from 20 different countries, including Canada and the USA.
for the first time ever teams from Russia (U14 team CSKA Moscow), Ukraine, Iran and possibly Nigeria will participate.
At present there are still free spots in 10 age categories.
Games are played with 2 international refs (140 refs from 25 countries).
On Saturday a game between Belgian Div 1 team Dexia Mons-Hainaut and Columbia (USA) will take place at 20.15 followed by a show by the world famous Crazy Dunkers. http://www.crazydunkers.com/

More information as well as enrollment forms can be found on the following site


http://www.flandersbasketballtrophy.com/



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BOSNIA

Bosna ASA enjoys first win in the final -by Eurobasket News
Bosna ASA BHT grabbed the first win in the play-off final against Igokea Partizan 84-79. It was the first meeting ever of these two teams in the final of Bosnian championship.

The hosts had fantastic support of almost 3.000 their fans in Sarajevo. It was very tough win for Bosna ASA. Visitors showed better performance in the first period ending it 21-25 but second quarter belonged to Bosna. They succeeded to go on the breather with minimum lead. After the half time both teams started to play more aggressively, especially on the defensive end. It resulted with totally equalized period 22-22. With four minutes to go the game was tied 69-69. At the next Bosna's offense Milijan Bocka (187-G-82) of Igokea committed a personal foul after what people from Igokea's bench protested to the refs. Bocka made unusual move then showing three fingers to Bosna's fans, who were very irritated with this starting to make troubles after what referees decided to send some of them out of the gym. Ten minutes later the game was continued. Bosna played these 4 minutes much better and mostly owing to Goran Ikonic (196-G-80), who netted 7 points in the row, took 1-0 lead in the final.
Lance Williams (206-C-80, college: De Paul) was the best scorer for the winning team with 27 points. Hero of the game Goran Ikonic scored 22 while Edin Bavcic (210-F/C-84, agency: Beo Basket) had 12 points and 7 rebounds. Stjepan Stazic (198-G-78, agency: World Sport Agency) delevered 15 points and grabbed 9 rebounds for Igokea Partizan. Milijan Bocka finished the game with 14 points and 3 assists.

Next game will be played on Saturday at Igokea's home court in Aleksandrovac. The hosts will try to stay in the race for the title while Bosna will give its best to finish the championship in just two games.


Bosna ASA BH Telecom- Igokea Partizan 84-79
(21-25,22-17,22-22,19-15)

Bosna ASA BHT: Williams 27, Ikonic 22, Bavcic 12 (7 rebs), Bailey 7 (5 as.)
Igokea Partizan: Stazic 15 (9 rebs, 3 as), Bocka 14 (3 as.), Kovacevic 12, Stefanovic 10

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CANADA

Le Mans Sarthe Basket hires new head coach -by Eurobasket News
After defeat in third deceive game of the French Pro A semifinals against Roanne 57-71, head coach Vincent Collet leaved the club. The team immediately agreed terms with their its former player J.D. Jackson (196-F/G-69, college: UBC).

Vincent Collet was a head coach of Le Mans over the past 8 years. Before that he spent there two seasons as an assistant coach. In this period Le Mans won one National Cup and became the championship winner in 2006. Collet was named to be the coach of the year twice. On 06/07 the team finished regular season on sixth place. Everybody expects the final this year as Le Mans totally dominated during the regular season with score 23-7 but as it was mentioned above they lost 2-1 in the semis. Coach Collet will continue career in ASVEL, where his signed 3-years contract.

President of the club Jean-Pierre Goisbault also leaved the club after the last season game.

Canada (Burnaby) native J.D. Jackson is not a new face in Le Mans as he spent there seven consecutive seasons as a player. He was a member of Le Mans from 1999 to 2006. During his playing career in Le Mans people around the club loved him because of his positive attitude and willingness to give 120% of his capability on every game. In the past Jackson played four years for Canadian National Team. Finally, after leaving of Collet, he stepped up as a new head coach of Le Mans Sarthe Basket.

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COLOMBIA

National Men Tournament in Medellin, Monday and Tuesday Results -by Victor Garcia

Monday Results:

Valle and Antioquia A in the group A, and Bogota in the group B remain undefeated after the Monday night games.

Valle blasted a weak Magdalena-Gaira team with a strong performance of Eleuterio Renteria (6'4' F/G), but Renteria was ejected of the game and will not play next game against Antioquia A.

Valle 102

Magdalena 48

Antioquia A defeated Norte, Enielsen Guevara (6'8' F/C) leaded the winers with 27 points, but was also ejected and will miss the game against Valle.

Antioquia A 103

Norte 83

Bogota defeated Caldas with a couple of three pointers of Miguel Matamoros (5'11' G) at the end of the game.

Bogota 74

Caldas 70

San Andres won in the game against the young Antioquia B, Edgar Moreno (6'3' G- UTEP) leaded the team of the island.

Antioquia B 57

San Andres 93

Tuesday night results.

Bogota almost clinched the first place of the B grupo defeating Antioquia B, Emiro Romero (6'5' F) leaded the ofensive of the winners.

Antioquia B 68

Bogota 79

Cundinamarca surprised everybody defeating San Andres and almost clinched a place in the next round.

Cundinamarca 78

San Andres 74.



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COSTA RICA

Barva to play tonight -by Gianni Pascucci
Ferreteria Brenes Barva and Coopealianza UNA Perez Zeledon will play tonight at the Palacio de los Deportes to decide who will advance to the semifinals. The officials of Liga de Baloncesto Superior (LBS) decided to replace the playoff sereis, delayed due to the inclement weather caused by Hurricane Alma, with an unique game. No doubt that the favourite is Barva, that, in case of win, will meet Santa Cecilia on friday night for the first semifinal game. The other Semifinal, between Liceo and Limon, starts tonight at 8 pm in Eddy Bermudez Gymnasium of Limon.

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CROATIA

Repesa and Ukic finally celebrates in Italy -by Eurobasket News
Head coach of Croatian National Team Jasmin Repesa and Roko Leni Ukic (195-G-84) succeeded to grab the first win in the final of Italian play-off. After two very inconvenient defeats, Lottomatica Rome outplayed Montepaschi Siena at home 84-70.

Everything started good for Repesa and Ukic as their Lottomatica made 15-5 after 8 minutes. As it was in the last game, this deficit was a signal for Siena's players to wake up. They done it successfully tying the game on 39-39 until the half time. After the breather both teams appeared on court showing strong willingness to take this one. Siena wanted to end the final series for these 20 minutes while Repesa's players wanted to stay in the race for the title. Lottomatica played just a bit better in third stanza which resulted with plus 3 before the last 10 minutes. Actually crucial period of the game was beginning of the last frame when the hosts made 9-2 run thanks to Roko Leni Ukic and Ibrahim Jaaber. It was 71-58 at that point, what fortunately to Repesa and Ukic was unreachable last night for the regular season champion Montepashi Siena.

Roko Leni Ukic showed very good performance in this game. For 27 minutes he collected 12 points and 3 dished out assists. He had a good percentage from the field 4/6 and also from the free throw line 4/4. However he struggled from behind the arc finishing the game without any triple 0/4.

Next game will be played in Siena, what will be their first chance to win championship title.

Corey Brewer joins ASK Riga -by Eurobasket News
One of the best players of Croatian champion Zadar, 33-year old Corey Brewer (188-G-75, college: Oklahoma), agreed terms with Latvian team ASK Riga. He is the first player who leaved Zadar after winning of championship title.
Brewer is a player with huge international experience. He changed many teams in Europe over the past 8 years. He was a player of Caja San Fernando Sevilla one season after what he moved to Adecco Estudiantes, where he spent two years. His next destination was Italian Lega due team Caffe Maxim Bologna, who was champion of the regular season 04/05. After Italy he played on year in Greece and Belgium. It is important to be mentioned that Brewer participated in ULEB Cup Final in 2006 with Aris. After Oostende he finally joined Zadar where for 14 games in ULEB Cup he averaged 14.8 ppg, 3.1 rpg and 3.6 apg. He also had 30 appearances in Adriatic league adding 14.4 ppg, 4.9 rpg and 3.6 apg. His team lost in the final of Adriatic league against Partizan Igokea.
Brewer put signature on one year deal with ASK Riga.

Another player could leave Zadar soon. It is Juby Johnson (196-G-81, college: Miami, OH), who according to the Croatian media already has offer from Azovmash and Pamesa. Management of the club denied all stories about Johnson's leaving at this moment.

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DOMINICAN REPUBLIC

DOMINICAN NATIONAL TEAM INVITEES ARE CHOSEN! -by Ozell Wells
Today was announced the list of players to participate this July 28 2008 in training camp for the CENTROBASKET 2008.
The list is as follows: Al Horford (208-F/C-86, college: Florida), Francisco Garcia (201-F-81, agency: Octagon, college: Louisville), Luis Flores (188-G-81, college: Manhattan), Antonio Pena (203-F-86), Ronald Ramon (185-G-86, agency: CAA Sports), Enye Polynice, Stevie Mejia, Edgar Sosa (185-G-88), Dominick Mejia (196-G-83, college: Drexel), Sammy Mejia (198-G-83, college: De Paul), Luis Martinez, Manny Quezada (188-G-85, college: Rutgers), Franklin Western (200-F-72, college: Providence), Josh Asselin (211-C/F-78, agency: Duran International, college: Michigan), Alex Salas, Amaury Filion (206-C/F-81), Ivan Almonte (198-F-81, college: Florida Intern.), Kelvin Pena (193-G-81, college: Southeastern CC), Ricky Soliver (191-G-84, college: Iona), Alberto Ozuna (203-F-82), Andy Williams (195-G/F-80, agency: Court Side), Manuel Fortuna (187-G), Manuel Guzman (203-F-82, college: Bemidji St.), Eulis Baez (201-F-82, college: W.Illinois), Carlos Morban (187-G-82, agency: Global Sports Plaza, college: Florida Intern.), Joel Ramirez (191-G-81), Jack Michael Martinez (203-F/C-81, agency: Paris Global Sports) y Sandro Encarnacion (203-86). The Team, once selected is to be coached by Scott Roth , who will be assisted by Edgar De La Rosa and 2 other assistants to be named later.
The selected players have been invited to a special luncheon on saturday, 26 July 2008 to discuss plans for the newest edition of the Dominican National Team. The team, once selected will play n the CENTROBASKET 2008, scheduled to commence in Cancun, Mexico 26-31 August 208. The tournament will qualify 3 countries to play in the Pre World Tournament 2009. The Pre World Tournament wil lead to the 2010 World Basketball Championships in Turkey.

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EUROLEAGUE

Pekovic and Fotsis in Panathinaikos! -by Chris Mammides

Nikola Pekovic (210-C-86) and Antonis Fotsis (210-F-81) are officially members of the Green team of Coach Obradovic. For the Serb everybody knew that he agreed with Panathinaikos four months ago and was just waiting for the official announcement from the Green management. For the Greek forward though, things were a bit different as the whole situation was quite complicated since PAnagiotis Giannakis and Olympiakos wanted quite badly the skillful player, according to some behind the scene news, Fotsis was offered by Olympiakos the same money if not more but he finally agree to go back to his 'old love' Panathinaikos. It is most certain that the next target for Panathinaikos will be the Croat experienced center Vujsic, ex player of Maccabi Tel Aviv and/or the Argentinean Carlos Delfino (199-G-82) who had a not so good season in NBA, rumors are bringing Dimitris Itoudis to the States especially for the Argentinean player



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FINLAND

Transfer News: Petri Virtanen back to Joensuu -by Rauno Hurmalainen
Kataja (Joensuu) has succeeded pretty well re-building Team roster during the last weeks and months. Kataja and Head Coach Ray Ailus have now nine Finnish players signed. The 'big fish' and news was when NT G Petri Virtanen (183-G-80) decided to return back to Joensuu. Virtanen played on Kataja's roster 2005-07 and will play again in Joensuu 2008-2010. Last season Virtanen averaged on YMCA Lappeenranta roster 15,4 ppg - 3,9 apg in 33 mpg and in the EuroCup 16,3 ppg - 4,4 apg.

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FRANCE

Le Mans Sarthe Basket hires new head coach -by Eurobasket News
After defeat in third deceive game of the French Pro A semifinals against Roanne 57-71, head coach Vincent Collet leaved the club. The team immediately agreed terms with their its former player J.D. Jackson (196-F/G-69, college: UBC).

Vincent Collet was a head coach of Le Mans over the past 8 years. Before that he spent there two seasons as an assistant coach. In this period Le Mans won one National Cup and became the championship winner in 2006. Collet was named to be the coach of the year twice. On 06/07 the team finished regular season on sixth place. Everybody expects the final this year as Le Mans totally dominated during the regular season with score 23-7 but as it was mentioned above they lost 2-1 in the semis. Coach Collet will continue career in ASVEL, where his signed 3-years contract.

President of the club Jean-Pierre Goisbault also leaved the club after the last season game.

Canada (Burnaby) native J.D. Jackson is not a new face in Le Mans as he spent there seven consecutive seasons as a player. He was a member of Le Mans from 1999 to 2006. During his playing career in Le Mans people around the club loved him because of his positive attitude and willingness to give 120% of his capability on every game. In the past Jackson played four years for Canadian National Team. Finally, after leaving of Collet, he stepped up as a new head coach of Le Mans Sarthe Basket.

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FYRMACEDONIA

Arsic Announces a 24 man squad -by Todor Chalovski
Macedonian NT coach Јоvicа Аrsic announced a list of 24 players for the qualifying games for EC 2009 in Poland. The list is consisted of:

Prеdrаg Sаmаrdziski (FMP Zеlеznik),
Tоdоr Gеcеvski (Zаdаr),
Jeremiah Massey (Rеаl Mаdrid),
Pеrо Аntic (Lukоil Аkаdеmik),
Zlаtkо Gоcеvski (Fеni Industri),
Pеrо Blаzеvski (Vаrdаr Оsiguruvање),
Mаrјаn Gjurоv (Fеni Industri),
Dimе Tаsоvski (Strumicа 2005),
Ristе Stеfаnоv (Lukоil Аkаdеmik),
Dаrkо Sоkоlоv (Strumicа 2005),
Vојdаn Stојаnоvski (Аmаk SP),
Gоrаn Sаmаrdziеv (Fеni Industri),
Vrbicа Stеfаnоv (Mеnоrkа),
Vlаdо Iliеvski (Mоntеpаschi),
Dimitаr Mirаkоvski (Fеrspеd Rаbоtnicki),
Оgnеn Stојаnоvski (Fеrspеd Rаbоtnicki),
Јаnе Pеtrоvski (MZT FОN Univеrzitеt Skоpје),
Еftim Bоgоеv (Strumicа 2005),
Dаrius Wаshingtоn (Аris),
Mајk Wilkinsоn (Khimky),
Gjоrgji Cеkоvski (Cherkassy),
Tоni Grncаrоv (Strumicа 2005),
Аlеksаndаr Dimitrоvski (Fеni Industri),
Аlеksаndаr Kоstоski (Grаvelinnes).

Macedonia will play in the Group B, against Portugal, Latvia and Estonia.

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GAMBIA

Two more Gambians to the D1 ranks. -by Rolando Delabarrera
Southern Illinois University-Edwardsville is joining the Ohio Valley Conference. They will be official members in July and begin competition in the OVC during the 2011-2012 seaon. Saihou Jassey, the 6'6'' Gambian small forward, was a sophomore this year for the cougars. Mahamoud Jabbie reported that he will be transferring to Binghamton University of the American East conference. Jabbie participated this past season for UNY-Oswego where he posted solid numbers at the D3 level. These two recent additions push the Gambian Division 1 player total to 5 at the moment. Tijan Jobe has signed with Indiana< Mohammed Conteh will play for Western Michigan and Abdulai Jallow is at James Madison. Amadou Sambou is expected to graduate this year but there is no word as to where he will be attending school next year. Saihou Jassey (198-F-86)

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GERMANY

Richmond Pittman joins Essen -by Moritz Korff
The ETB Wohnbau Baskets Essen, champion of the 2. Bundesliga Pro B and newcomer to the Pro A, signed Richmond Pittman (198-F-83, college: Cent.Conn.St.) to a contract for the 2008-2009 campaign. He will be the third import player on the Essen-roster after Brandon Lincoln (193-G-83, college: Oregon) and Ethan Shaw (203-F-83, college: Detroit Mercy) extended their contracts. Pittman played for FC Schalke 04 until November 07 (9 games: 18.2ppg, 8.4rpg, 1.7apg), but got dismissed because he had hit a teammate in the locker room. He returned to the United States and joined the Manchester Millrats. In 4 appearances for the ABA-side he averaged 10.0 points and 4.7 rebounds.

Bundesliga Finals Wednesday June 11th: Bonn 81 ALBA 71 -by Michael Taylor
Telekom Baskets Bonn 81 ALBA Berlin 71 (Series even 1-1)
Ronnie Burrell scored 21pt with 5reb and Miah Davis added 17pt 5ast as Telekom Baskets Bonn evened the Bundesliga Finals Series at 1-1 with an exciting 81-71 home win over ALBA Berlin Wednesday night at the new Arena, the Telekom Dome in Bonn. Fueled by the energy and emotion of their new home floor and first home game of the Bundesliga Finals, Bonn raced to a strong 24-13 1Q before ALBA Berlin fought back in the 2Q. Bonn held a 45-37 lead at half. Head coach Michael Koch and his Bonn team expanded their lead to 61-48 after 3Q and held off an ALBA run in the 4th to even the series with the 81-71 Game 2 win. Veteran Bernd Kruel continued his excellent post season contributions for Bonn with 10pt 5reb and Winsome Frazier also added 10pt to the win. Bobby Brown drilled 6 of 12 threes to lead Berlin with 21pt with help from Julius Jenkins (12pt) and Goran Nikolic (10pt). Bonn overcame the loss of hardworking post man John Bowler with an emotional win at their new Arena. In the win, Bonn shot 54% from the floor and made 5 of their 9 three point attempts while sinking 12 of 16FT (75%). Bonn outrebounded ALBA 29-25. ALBA shot 52% from the floor and made 10 of 21 threes (47%) while converting 15 of 20 FT (75%). A key stat in the offensive oriented game was the 19 turnovers ALBA suffered compared with only 11 for Bonn. Game 3 is scheduled for Sunday June 15th tipping off 3pm at MaxSchmellinghalle in Berlin.

Itzehoe Eagles land NAIA All-American -by Moritz Korff
Brad Harris (191-G, agency: Profibasketball.de) has been added to the roster of the Itzehoe Eagles (Regionalliga North) for the 2008-2009 season, as announced on the clubs' website today. The 22-year-old Shooter spent his collegiate career at Tennessee Temple University and moved to Lee University, one of the top-schools in NAIA Division One, for his senior-year. Harris led the Flames in points per game (15.2ppg) and shot 39.1% (100/256) from beyond the arc over this past season. Other remarkable averages were 3.0 assists and 2.2 rebounds per contest. He led Lee to the quarterfinals of the NAIA National Championship and then dropped out of the tournament when falling short to Oklahoma City, who won the National Title shortly after. Harris made the 2007-2008 NAIA Division One All-America First Team and was honored as the Player of the Year in the Southern States Athletic Conference.

Paderborn: Peavy to stay one more season -by Moritz Korff
Nathan Peavy (203-F-85, agency: LimeLight, college: Miami, OH) will spend a second season in the Bundesliga with the Digibu Baskets from Paderborn, as the team published on its website today. The 23-year-old Forward came to Germany in 2007 after he finished his NCAA-career at Miami University, Ohio. In his first year as a pro Peavy saw action in 34 games of the highest German league and averaged 9.4 points as well as 3.8 rebounds per contest.
Meanwhile, Robert Oehle (209-C-88) inked a three-year-contract with Paderborn. The talented Center, who is 20 years of age, had 3 appearances in the Bundesliga during 2007-2008. He played mostly for the clubs' second team.

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GREECE

Pekovic and Fotsis in Panathinaikos! -by Chris Mammides

Nikola Pekovic (210-C-86) and Antonis Fotsis (210-F-81) are officially members of the Green team of Coach Obradovic. For the Serb everybody knew that he agreed with Panathinaikos four months ago and was just waiting for the official announcement from the Green management. For the Greek forward though, things were a bit different as the whole situation was quite complicated since PAnagiotis Giannakis and Olympiakos wanted quite badly the skillful player, according to some behind the scene news, Fotsis was offered by Olympiakos the same money if not more but he finally agree to go back to his 'old love' Panathinaikos. It is most certain that the next target for Panathinaikos will be the Croat experienced center Vujsic, ex player of Maccabi Tel Aviv and/or the Argentinean Carlos Delfino (199-G-82) who had a not so good season in NBA, rumors are bringing Dimitris Itoudis to the States especially for the Argentinean player



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HOLLAND

Stephan van der Schoot remains at Rotterdam Challengers -by Fred Roggen
Stephan van der Schoot (198-F-82) remains at the Rotterdam Challengers. The 26-year-old forward signed a contract for a season with the Challengers.
Van der Schoot averaged 3.7 points and 3.5 rebounds per game this season for the Challengers.
Stephan van der Schoot is glad that he nevertheless plays coming season at the Challengers.
' I was not ready yet for my feeling at Rotterdam. ', thus van der Schoot.

Paz Costa remains at Rotterdam -by Fred Roggen
Yasalde Fernandes Paz Costa play also the coming season for the Rotterdam Challengers. Paz Costa signed a contract for one more year with the Challengers. The 21-year old Paz Costa from Angola,who will get his Dutch passport this year ,will start to his third season at the Rotterdam Challengers. He is the third pointguard in the team of coach Terence Stansbury after Charles Richardson and Richard Maxwell.

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IBL

Flight poised for strong finish -by Trask Frost

Grand Rapids, MI -The Grand Rapids Flight's fourth season in the IBL is winding down, and the Flight are looking to close out the regular season on a high note. The Flight currently sit at second place in the IBL's Midwest Division, and are playing their best basketball of the season, having won four of their last seven games.

Kenny Langhorne (6'5''-F/G-83, college: S.Arkansas) is having a breakout season for the Flight in 2008. Langhorne, a 6'5' shooting guard is coming off consecutive 40-plus point performances, and is sixth in the IBL in scoring at 25.9 points per game. Over the Flight's last seven contests, Langhorne is averaging over 35 points and 8 rebounds per outing.

Terrance Shaw is also having an outstanding year for Grand Rapids. Shaw, a 6'7' forward, is pulling down 10.0 rebounds per gameA˘â‚¬â€ťgood for fourth in the IBL. Shaw is also averaging 21.1 points per game.

The Flight also feature three players with ties to the area, highlighted by former Detroit Piston Charles Thomas. Union High School alum Stevie Akridge and local product Melvin Lofton are also on the roster.

The Flight have two home games remaining, including a game against the Edmonton Chill this coming Friday, June 13, and, to close out the regular season, a Tuesday, June 24 contest vs. the Battle Creek Knights. Both games will be played at the Courthouse Athletic Center (8455 Byron Commerce Drive SW, Byron Center, MI) and tip off at 7:11pm. Tickets will be available at the door, and cost $5--with children 12 and under admitted free.



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ICELAND

Stefanson is still alive in Italian final 1-3 -by Eurobasket News
After three defeats in the final of Italian play-off, Jon Stefansson (195-G-82) and his Lottomatica finally grabbed the win. They were better than Montepaschi Siena at home 84-70. As it was in the last game, visitors once again had fantastic come-back tying the score after big minus. The beginning of the game belonged to Stefansson and his teammates. After 8 minutes the hosts already made comfortable lead 15-5. It seemed that Lottomatica learned a lesion in their last game knowing that Montepaschi is the most dangerous when it is the most important but still they couldn't handle them in the second stanza. The top ranked team from regular season succeeded to equalize until the breather 39-39. Third frame was extremely tough as both teams played concentrated and without easy baskets on both sides. Crucial period of the game was beginning of the last quarter when Lottomatica made 9-2 run setting the score on 71-58. They had on their mind for sure the last game when Siena celebrated despite Lottomatica had advantage of more than 15 points. The hosts succeeded to keep its lead staying alive in the play-off final 1-3.

Jon Stefansson had important role in his team scoring 7 points for 26 minutes. He also grabbed 3 rebounds for the winners.

The next game will be played in Siena and it will be almost mission impossible for Jon Stefansson and his team to grab two wins and capture the title.

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

Iranian National Team 2008 -by Eurobasket
#s#
#e#6


Kamrani


Zandi


Hadadi


Bahrami


Tadjik
Pooya Tadjik (202-F/C-80) of Paykan Tehran
Amir Amini (196-G-84) of Kaveh Tehran
Javad Davari (185-G-83) of Petrochimi Imam Harbour
Mehdi Kamrani (181-G-82) of Mahram
Mohammad Reza Akbari (197-F/G-86) of Zob Ahan Esfahan
Iman Zandi (186-G-81) of BEEM
Hamed Afagh (191-G-83) of Saba Battery
Hooman Rezaei (207-C-81) of Mahram
Jaber Rouzbahani (223-C-86) of Zob Ahan Esfahan
Hamed Hadadi (218-C-85) of Saba Battery
Samad Bahrami (200-F/G-83) of Saba Battery
Oshin Sahakian (202-F-86) of Zob Ahan Esfahan
Ali Baheran (186-G-86) of Saba Battery
Saeed Davarpanah (190-G-87) of Kaveh Tehran
Hamed Sohrabnejad (205-C/F-83) of Petrochimi Imam Harbour

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

Italy ends with a win -by Gianni Pascucci
Team Italy ended yesterday night in Montebelluna the first stage of the preparation to the EC 2009 Qualification Round defeating Ukraine 90-73 (20-20, 41-41, 66-55). The key of the game was a good defense of the Azzurri, who made the decisive effort during the last quarter. This time, the best scorer was Federico Bolzonella (185-G-84), with 15 pts, Luigi Datome (202-G/F-87) added 14, Luca Garri (207-C/F-82) and Daniele Cinciarini (194-G-83, agency: Interperformances) 13 each. Ukraine was led by Viktor Kobzisty (200-F-79), who was the game top scorer at 24, and the only other Ukrainian to score in double digits was Andriy Agafonov (207-F-86, agency: Interperformances) at 11. Coach Recalcati will reopen the NT camp on July 18 in Bormio, and expects to have there all his top players. .

Serie A Finals Game 4 -by Luca Bianchin
It's not finished. Lottomatica Roma won 84-70 game4 and did not allow Siena to sweep the series. It was a close game, played with effort by Lottomatica despite trailing 0-3: Roko Leni Ukic (195-G-84) played his best game in this Finals, while Ibrahim Jaaber (188-G-84, college: Pennsylvania) was the first offensive option for Repesa. The guard from New York closed with 22 points, a season high, and an impressive 10/11 from the field. However Roma needed good numbers by Roberto Gabini (198-F-75, agency: Interperformances) and Erazem Lorbek (210-F/C-84, college: Michigan St.), who combined for 26 points and 15 rebounds. Siena wasn't that good: Montepaschi had only two players in double figures (Lavrinovic with 14 and Thornton with 13) and lost the game in the first three minutes of the last quarter. With ten minutes to play we had a 3 point game, then Lottomatica, led by Ukic and Jaaber, built a 9-2 run to obtain the first win in the series. In Siena it will be more difficult for Lottomatica: Montepaschi is planning to close the series on Thursday night, in game5.

*****************************************************
JAMAICA

Standings
NBL Standings
 1. Port Royal 2-0 
 2. Urban K. 1-0 
 3. Tivoli Wizards 1-0 
 4. Runnin' R. 1-0 
 5. Majestic G. 1-0 
 6. W.Cumberland 1-0 
 7. Slayers 0-0 
 8. Arnett GR 0-1 
 9. JDF 0-1 
 10. Catherine AS. 0-1 
 11. Linkup All-S. 0-2 
 12. Blazing P. 0-2 


*****************************************************
KOSOVO

WORKING ASSEMBLY III -by Edona Shabani
On Sunday, June 8th 2008 in Hotel 'Victroy' took place the third Working Assembly of the Basketball Federation of Kosova.

The Assembly where participate around 39 deputies from the total 49 members that this Assembly has discussed on this Agenda'
1. Election of Working Bodies
- Working headship
- Verifying Commission
- Report keepers

2. Approving the report from the previous Assembly.
3. Mr. Erolld Belegu's speech, president of BFK
4. Identifying some of the problems in kosovar basketball.
5. Board's decision proposals
6.Different topics


The Assembly unanimously approved all the documents proposed and completed with deputies' notices.
Since BC' Fushe Kosova' withdraw its representatives from the Supervisory Council, the Assembly named this Council which consist from:
Arian Haxhibeqiri, president ,Sejdi Mehmeti member and representative of BC 'Sigal Prishtina'

Source: www.basketbolli.com




FIBA meeting in Athens -by Edona Shabani
Athens, June 2nd 2008

During the activities to internationalize kosovar sports, Mr. Valton Beqiri Minister of Culture, Sports and Youth of Kosova and Mr. Erolld Belegu president of BFK met with highest FIBA officials.

FIBA delegation consisted of Mr. Bob Elphinson, president of FIBA, Mr. Patrick Baumann general secretary, and Mr. Marcus Studer, chef of operations in this organization.

In this meeting mainly was discussed for the membership of BFK in FIBA and the obstacles that are affecting this membership. FIBA official another time pointed out that the general recognition of the state of Kosva is the main factor that is impeding the membership of BFK in FIBA

FIBA official expressed that, they are aware that the membership of BFK is a matter time and they promised that this issue will be discussed in the next meeting of the Central Board of FIBA which will take place on November. But if it happens that Kosova is not recognized as a state by most of the international federations, it will be very difficult for FIBA to take a positive decision on BFK's membership.

Meanwhile, FIBA will also discus the possibility of finding technical support to BFK through FIBA Europe. It is possible that during the week to take place a meeting between FIBA, FIBA Europe and kosovar delegations.

The meeting which was described with a very friendly atmosphere took place in Hotel 'Hilton' where same time is taking place the yearly international conference 'SPORTACCORD'.

Mr. Elphinson president of FIBA expressed his satisfaction for the support of minster Beqiri, by appreciating his presence in the meeting. Mr. Beqir as well thanked FIBA delegation for their willingness to meet and asked that for further help kosovar sport.

On behalf of BFK president Belegu, informed FIBA on the development of kosovar basketball and asked for all possibilities to start collaboration. And as a first steps toward this collaboration Mr. Belegu invited FIBA's experts to visit the state of Kosova, a vist which will be on September.

BFK APPLIED FOR MEMBESHIP IN FIBA

After the discussions between FIBA, FIBA Europe and our delegation in Athens, president Belegu and minister Beqiri were suggested to apply for membership in FIBA Europe. The complete documentation and the application form were handled.

The president of FIBA Europe Mr. George Vasilakopoulos promised that BFK request will me taken into consideration urgently.


Source: www.basketbolli.com

A succesesful presentation of young categories teams -by Edona Shabani
Organized by the Professional Council of BFK, in the Sports and Youth Hall In Prishtina took place a presentation of cadets and pioneers teams. From all four teams( Peja & Gjilan, Prizren&Therana , Mitrovica & Vushtrri and Prishtina) in both categories were around 120 most talented kosovar basketball players.

The goal of this activity is to point out the potential candidats for NT.
In the next weekend will be organized matches between teams representing two parts of Kosova ' Rrafshi I Dukagjinit' and 'Rrafshi I Kosoves' in both categories cadets and pioneers( men and women).


Source: www.basketbolli.com

*****************************************************
LATVIA

Corey Brewer joins ASK Riga -by Eurobasket News
One of the best players of Croatian champion Zadar, 33-year old Corey Brewer (188-G-75, college: Oklahoma), agreed terms with Latvian team ASK Riga. He is the first player who leaved Zadar after winning of championship title.
Brewer is a player with huge international experience. He changed many teams in Europe over the past 8 years. He was a player of Caja San Fernando Sevilla one season after what he moved to Adecco Estudiantes, where he spent two years. His next destination was Italian Lega due team Caffe Maxim Bologna, who was champion of the regular season 04/05. After Italy he played on year in Greece and Belgium. It is important to be mentioned that Brewer participated in ULEB Cup Final in 2006 with Aris. After Oostende he finally joined Zadar where for 14 games in ULEB Cup he averaged 14.8 ppg, 3.1 rpg and 3.6 apg. He also had 30 appearances in Adriatic league adding 14.4 ppg, 4.9 rpg and 3.6 apg. His team lost in the final of Adriatic league against Partizan Igokea.
Brewer put signature on one year deal with ASK Riga.

Another player could leave Zadar soon. It is Juby Johnson (196-G-81, college: Miami, OH), who according to the Croatian media already has offer from Azovmash and Pamesa. Management of the club denied all stories about Johnson's leaving at this moment.

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

New players in Siauliai -by Lukas Zajancauskas
BC Siauliai are reinforcing. They renewed contract with Saulius Kuzminskas (210-C/F-82, college: California) and signed 3 new players - Saulius younger brother Mindaugas Kuzminskas (203-F-89), former Marijampole Suduva-Arvi playmaker Aurimas Birgelis (190-G-88) and Laimonas Lukosevicius (193-G/F-86).

Mindaugas Kuzminskas and Laimonas Lukosevicius last played in NKL. Mindaugas averaged 7 points and 2 boards for KM-SSK-Perlas Vilnius, Laimonas - 21 points and 5 rebounds. He played for Pieno Zvaigzdes Pasvalys. By the way, Laimonas Lukosevicius was already in BC Siauliai couple of years ago, but he didn't gained place in the team and was loaned to weaker teams.

Aurimas Birgelis played in Marijampole Suduva-Arvi, LKL. He averaged 7.4 points and 1.9 assists. It is expected that he and Gediminas Maceina (188-G-84) will make a good playmaker duo.

BC Siauliai boss Adomas Klimavicius also said that the club is looking for a Power Forward and a Center.

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

Leon Preparing for Next Season -by Carlos Chapa
After a scouting trip in the United States made by new head coach Luis Turcios, the Lechugueros de Leon have officially announced new additions for the team.

Confirmed is Chad Bell (213-C-82, college: Nevada), who played recently in the ABA, he will look to add more strength and presence inside the painted area. Leon is looking to add point guard Daniel Tavarez from Dominican Republic, informed Gustavo Saggiante –team's president,- in their official website.

Small forward Adrian Sanchez and power forward Jose Martinez will also be included in Leon's roster, which opens the season September 4, against Santos Reales de San Luis Potosi.

With information from Leon's official website

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

Maggette to Opt out of his Contract. -by Bryan Floyd
Clippers guard Corey Maggette will officially opt out of his contract at the end of the month, according to The Los Angeles Times.He will become an unrestricted free agent, with teammate Elton Brand having the same option.Coach Mike Dunleavy still believes that both will be playing for the team next season.'The reality is that there's no money out there,' Dunleavy said of the market value for free agents. Later, he added, 'People will come to reality and probably make a deal. That's how I see it.' Maggette joins Gilbert Arenas in the Free Agent market. Arenas decided to opt out yesterday and will be representing himself in order to save money.

NBA dismisses allegations of rigging from ex-referee -by Eurobasket News
NBA commissioner David Stern dismissed allegations from a former referee at the center of a gambling scandal that the 2002 playoff series was rigged by league referees and officials, calling the claims baseless.

'He turned on basically all of his colleagues in an attempt to demonstrate that he is not the only one who engaged in criminal activity,' Stern said of Tim Donaghy before Game 3 of the NBA finals in Los Angeles on Tuesday. 'The U.S. attorney's office, the FBI have fully investigated it, and Mr. Donaghy is the only one who is guilty of a crime.'

The allegations about the 2002 series were contained in a letter filed by a lawyer for Donaghy, who pleaded guilty last year to felony charges alleging he took cash payoffs from gamblers and bet on games himself. Donaghy, 41, faces up to 33 months in prison at sentencing on July 14.

Without identifying anyone or naming teams, Donaghy also claimed the NBA routinely encouraged refs to ring up bogus fouls to manipulate results but discouraged them from calling technical fouls on star players to keep them in games and protect ticket sales and television ratings.

'If the NBA wanted a team to succeed, league officials would inform referees that opposing players were getting away with violations,' the letter said. 'Referees then would call fouls on certain players, frequently resulting in victory for the opposing team.'

Donaghy's lawyer has sought to convince a federal judge in Brooklyn that Donaghy, of Bradenton, Fla., deserves more credit for coming forward before he was charged to disclose behind-the-scenes misconduct within the NBA. The letter, filed Monday, suggests prosecutors have hurt Donaghy's chances for a lesser prison term by downplaying the extent of his cooperation.

Both Donaghy's attorney, John Lauro, and prosecutors declined comment.

The league said the scandal was limited to Donaghy and two co-defendants, both former high school classmates who also pleaded guilty to gambling charges.

'The NBA remains vigilant in protecting the integrity of our game and has fully cooperated with the government at every stage of its investigation,' Richard Buchanan, NBA executive vice president and general counsel, said in a statement. 'The only criminal activity uncovered is Mr. Donaghy's.'

Larnell McMorris, a spokesman for the NBA referees union, said in a statement that Donaghy 'has had honesty and credibility issues from the get-go.'

Donaghy's letter said that in the first of several meetings with prosecutors and the FBI in New York in 2007, he named names while describing 'various examples of improper interactions and relationships between referees and other league employees, such as players, coaches and management.' For example, it said, referees broke NBA rules by hitting up players for autographs, socializing with coaches and accepting meals and merchandise from teams.

In one of several allegations of corrupt refereeing, Donaghy said he learned in May 2002 that two referees known as 'company men' were working a best-of-seven series in which 'Team 5' was leading 3-2. In the sixth game, he alleged they purposely ignored fouls made by opponent 'Team 6' and made phantom calls putting its players at the free-throw line.

'Team 6' won the game and came back to win the series, the letter said.
Courtesy of examiner.com


Bryant lead the Lakers in the Game 3 of the Finals -by Eurobasket
On his floor and on his game, Kobe Bryant (6'6''-G-78) revived the Los Angeles Lakers and the NBA finals.
With his team one loss from having to make an impossible climb, Bryant was close to MVP form, scoring 36 points on an assortment of spins, drives and jumpers and reserve Alexander Vujacic (6'7''-G-84) added 20 points as the Lakers beat the Boston Celtics 87-81 in Game 3 on Tuesday night.
A change of time zones, jerseys and attitude did wonders for the Lakers, who staggered home from Boston in an 0-2 hole and couldn't afford to fall any further behind in the first best-of-seven matchup between the league's marquee teams since 1987.
No team in NBA playoff history has ever overcome an 0-3 deficit.
Bryant made sure the Lakers won't have to.
And this time, the superstar got some help.
Vujacic, the self-proclaimed 'Machine,' made three 3-pointers, including a crucial one from the left corner with 1:53 left that gave the Lakers an 81-76 lead. Pau Gasol (7'0''-F/C-80) finally flexed his muscles with two inside baskets in the fourth quarter and Derek Fisher (6'1''-G-74, agency: Priority Sports, college: UALR), who took an $8 million pay cut to come back and play for the Lakers, made two free throws with 1:33 remaining as the Lakers held on.

Courtesy of TOM WITHERS, AP Sports Writer

*****************************************************
NEW ZEALAND

Auckland enter semis -by Eurobasket News
Harbour - Auckland 84:94

The Auckland Stars were on the brink of being thrown out of the playoffs. However they proved they are still worth it when they edged the Harbour Heat at the North Shore Events Centre to qualify for the NBL semifinal. The Auckland Stars were disqualified of the NBL postseason a couple of days ago being unable to get sufficient funds for playoff bid. Nevertheless the NBL authorities reinstated the team soon after the Stars' lawyers worked it out. And the Stars added some more positive emotions to their fans holding off the Harbour Heat away from home in the quarterfinal. Adrian Majstrovich (202-F/G-80) and George Baker (195-F-80, agency: Profibasketball.de, college: Georgetown, KY) came up with 24 points apiece to lead the Stars to an impressive victory. The visitors stunned the Heat with a 33:19 first frame and controlled the tempo further on. They enjoyed a 45:34 lead at halftime. Harbour seemed to be taken aback and could not find proper answers in the second half. The situation hardly changed after the long break as the Stars kept the hosts at bay. The visiting team accumulated a 65:51 advantage heading into the final period and never looked back in the fourth stanza. Reece Cassidy (200-F/G-82) nailed 18 points for the Stars. Jonathon Shepherd provided 10 points in a winning case. Oscar Forman (205-G/F-82) answered with game-high 26 points. Tim Behrendorff (211-C-81, college: Gardner-Webb) drilled 16 points and Mika Vukona (197-F-82) came up with 13 points and 11 boards in a losing effort. Harbour outrebounded their opponents 45:36 but converted just 35% from the field. The visitors replied with 58% accuracy, while both teams suffered 13 turnovers down the stretch. Auckland will next take on the Waikato Pistons in the semifinal on Friday.

Harbour: Oscar Forman 26, Tim Behrendorff 16, Mika Vukona 13+11 boards
Auckland: Adrian Majstrovich 24+11 boards, George Baker 24, Reece Cassidy 18

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PANAMA

Caimanes and Magnates won in CBS 2008.- -by Eddie Munoz
Caimanes de Rio Abajo one of the two undefeated teams of CBS 2008 won over Toros del Chorrillo 101-65 in a game who was disputed during the 1st half of the game but in the 2nd Caimanes open a comfortable lead over the Toros. The best scorers of the game were Ernesto Oglivie and Alfonso Stoute both with 20 Points by the winners and Jonathan King 17 Points and Orlando Jordan 16 Points by Toros. In the 2nd game Magnates de Calidonia won in a very disputed game to Colosos de Tumba Muerto 81-78 again Joel Munoz (179-G-80, agency: HM Sports Agency) with 24 Points and 6 Assistances was the motor of the Magnates de Calidonia.

Standings - CBS
CBS Standings
 1. Caimanes 3-0 
 2. Fieras 2-0 
 3. Magnates 2-1 
 4. Navieros 1-1 
 5. Canguros 1-1 
 6. Colosos 0-3 
 7. Toros 0-3 


*****************************************************
PHILIPPINES

PBA Fiesta Cup Results -by Lorenzo Gahol
June 4 (Wed) Araneta Coliseum
Welcoat 86 Magnolia 94
MBM: Racela 20 pts, Tugade 19 pts
WD: Santee 21 pts

Coca Cola 98 Purefoods 100
PG: J. Yap 31 pts, Simon 23 pts
CCT: Dixon 31 pts, 12 rebs

June 6 (Fri) Cuneta Astrodome
Alaska 86 Air21 84
ALA: Willie Miller (180-G-77) 21 pts
A21: Thomas 20 pts, 21 rebs

Sta. Lucia 104 Ginebra 112
BGK: Alexander 35 pts, 25 rebs, Helterbrand 31 pts
SLR: Espino 28 pts,

June 7 (Sat) Mindanao Civic Centre Gym, Tubod, Lanao del Norte
Purefoods 97 Welcoat 102
WD: Wainwright 26 pts
PG: Rhalimi 21 pts, 22 rebs, 4 blks

June 8 (Sun) Araneta Coliseum
Talk N Text 96 Coca-Cola 103
CCT: Dixon 30 pts
TNT: Cardona 24 pts, 9 rebs

Magnolia 75 Red Bull 84
RBB: Baguio 16 pts, 15 pts
MBM: Watkins 13 pts, 17 rebs

June 11 (Wed) Aranea Coliseum
Welcoat 81 Alaska 104
ALA: Willie Miller 19 pts, Holcomb 18 pts
WD: Gainous 31 pts, 16 rebs

Ginebra 89 Purefoods 81
BGK: Tubid 21 pts, Alexander 20 pts, 16 rebs, 3 blks
PG: Rhalimi 28 pts, 15 rebs, 1 blk

Standings - PBA Fiesta Conference
PBA Standings
 1. Red Bull 9-5 
 2. Coca-Cola 9-5 
 3. Air21 8-6 
 4. Alaska 8-6 
 5. Magnolia 7-7 
 6. Talk N Text 7-7 
 7. Sta Lucia 6-7 
 8. Ginebra 6-8 
 9. Purefoods 6-8 
 10. Welcoat D. 4-11 


*****************************************************
PUERTO RICO

Caguas and Arecibo Game Suspended -by Luis Ramirez

The game that was supposed to be played between the Caguas Criollos and the Arecibo Captains was abruptly suspended on Tuesday night as the appeals board revoked the decision the BSN League had taken in regards to letting import player Rodney White play for the Captains. There was to be a new hearing today to decide if the decision of the appeals committee would stand or if the decision would be revoked by the Governing Board of the P.R. Basketball Federation.

In other BSN action, the Fajardo Cariduros surprised the Guaynabo Conquistadors 88-83. The Cariduros played good defense in the 1st quarter to keep the Conquistadors to just 12 points in that quarter while the Cariduros would go on to score 20 points. In the 2nd quarter it was the Conquistadors playing a much better defensive game to reclaim the lead as the 1st half came to an end, 38-36. In the 2nd half once again the Conquistadors played a poor defensive game and the Cariduros took the lead once again 58-51. The Conquistadors played a good 4th quarter but it was too little too late as the Cariduros got the win. For Fajardo, Javier Mojica scored 23 points and grabbed 14 rebounds followed by Kevin Hamilton with 13 points. For Guaynabo, Carmelo Lee scored 17 points followed by Antonio Latimer with 14 points.

In the last game of the night, the Carolina Giants continued to hold 1st place as they beat the Santurce Crabbers 80-73. It was pretty even in the 1st quarter with the Giants taking a 1 point lead 19-18. In the 2nd quarter the Crabbers had problems scoring and the Giants widen their lead to end the half in the lead 37-30. In the 2nd half the Crabbers just could mount a serious threat and the Giants got the win. For Carolina, Ebi Ere scored 27 points followed by Filiberto Rivera and Alejandro Carmona both scoring 17 points. For Santurce, Robert Traylor (204-F/C-77, college: Michigan) scored 27 points and grabbed 12 rebounds followed by Larry Ayuso with 23 points.



Standings - BSN
BSN Standings
Super 6
1. Carolina 25
2. Arecibo 22
3. Santurce 22
4. Guaynabo 21
5. Caguas 20
6. Fajardo 16
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

Maccabi in Erceg inquiry -by Zoran Klansic
Euroleague runners up - Maccabi Electra Tel-Aviv has made contact with FMP Director Ratko Radovanovic about the services of Serbian Center - Zoran Erceg.
According to the report in B92,an inquiry has been made from Maccabi for the 23 years old center services.who has a two years left in his contract with FMP.
Radovanovic confirmed to B92 about the interst of the Israeli team.but said that nothing has been agreed or discussed yet.
Erceg avreged 15.1ppg, 5.1rpg, 1.0apg in 28 games in the Adriatic league and 14.0ppg, 5.5rpg, 1.1apg, in the Uleb Cup.
Erceg already stated that he would be very happy to move abroad,but if it won't materialized he would be happy to stay in FMP.

Vladimir Petrovic returns to Greece -by Dragan Jankovski
After two years shooting guard / small forward Vladimir Petrovic (198-F/G-77, agency: Beo Basket) will return to Greece. Petrovic started previous season in Mega Aqua Monta and in December he moved to Polish team Anwil Wloclawek. Before Anwil, he spent one season in French Pro A team Paris Basket Racing. Later, when French regular season finished, he joined Vidi Vici Bologna.

Petrovic played for Greek Aris on season 05/06. He also played there two years in his first season out of Serbia. Petrovic competes in Greece as domestic player because he posses double citizenship Serbian/Greek.

Team Serbia for Eurobasket 2009 qualifications announced -by Dragan Jankovski
Head coach of Serbian National Team, Dusan Ivkovic, announced list with 19 players which he called to join NT preparations for the Eurobasket 2009 qualifications:

Milos Vujanic
Bojan Popovic
Stefan Markovic
Milos Teodosic
Milenko Tepic
Uros Tripkovic
Dusan Kecman
Bojan Krstovic
Branko Cvetkovic
Vuk Radivojevic
Novica Velickovic
Zoran Erceg
Tadija Dragicevic
Ivan Radenovic
Nenad Krstic
Darko Milicic
Kosta Perovic
Boban Marjanovic
Luka Bogdanovic

Ivkovic also announced who will assists him in his future work with NT. It will be Aco Petrovic and Aleksandar Kesar. Preparations officially will start on July 6th but couple of days before some players will already start to work with Ivkovic and his assistants. First friendly game Serbian NT will play on July 25th while Eurobasket 2009 qualifications begins on August 20th in Italy.

'Short term target for us is to reach Eurobasket 2009. The much more important long term target for us is to make a NT who will be together for at least 4 years and who will be capable to lead us to the Olympic Games 2012. It is not a change of generations because I have on my list Bojan Krstovic, who had very good year behind him. I also called Dusan Kecman, who played the best season in his career. Our main target is to return winning mentality and spirit of the National Team from the past' - said Dusan Ivkovic.

Ivakovic also said that he called the players who will be able to spend complete preparation period with NT and it was the reason why he didn't call the biggest names of Serbian basketball. The most important thing is that Ivkovic stated that he believes in this team and success on Eurobasket 2009 qualifications.

Ivkovic also announced that they will have an eye on players from NT younger selections. There is a possibility that some of those players join senior NT after they finish obligations with their team.

Well respected coach Dusan Ivkovic stated that Serbia is completely new National Team who has to start for zero in order to return on place where it was in the past.

*****************************************************
UKRAINE

Another loss for Ukraine in Italy -by Eurobasket News
Italy - Ukraine 90:73

Ukrainian National team suffered their third loss in the series of friendly games in Italy. Yesterday they met Italian National team once again and were beaten 73:90. The teams played a couple of days ago and Italy celebrated a 76:68 victory. This time the dominance of the hosts was even more obvious as they stepped up in the second half to thump Ukraine. The teams were well-matched early on as the scoreline read 21:21 after the opening stanza. The things hardly changed in the second period as Ukraine responded for every basket from the home side and kept things leveled at 41 at halftime. However Italy opened the second half with a 10:1 run to clear off. The hosts jumped to a double-digit lead late in the frame and kept the visitors at bay throughout the reminder of the quarter. Skutelnik and Panchenko received technical fouls late in the third and early in the fourth terms respectively giving Italy a chance to maintain the buffer. The home side accumulated a 15-point cushion midway through the fourth stanza and eased past Ukrainian team in the final minutes. Federico Bolzonella (185-G-84) provided 15 points to pace the hosts. Luigi Datome (202-G/F-87) knocked down 14 points, while Luca Garri (207-C/F-82) and Cincarini added 13 points apiece for the winners. Viktor Kobzisty (200-F-79) topscored with 24 points for Ukraine. Andriy Agafonov (207-F-86, agency: Interperformances) provided 11 points, while Rostislav Krivych (198-F-78) nailed 9 in a loss. Ukraine had a slight advantage under the rims outrebounding the home team 26:24. Italy meanwhile converted solid 53% from the field. Ukraine will now take a pause before the second training period starting late in July.

Italy: Federico Bolzonella 15, Luigi Datome 14, Luca Garri 13, Cincarini 13
Ukraine: Viktor Kobzisty 24, Andriy Agafonov 11, Rostislav Krivych 9

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URUGUAY

Aguada and Capurro increased their leadership -by Hector Lopez
Aguada and Capurro took a two points lead over Verdirrojo after the 18th round of the Metro League. The champions will be promoted to the Uruguayan League 2009 and four other teams will qualify for a playoff for another promotion. The results and main figures for the import players are as follows:
Aguada 102 - Wendell Gibson (201-F/C-83, college: Hofstra) 24 points 15 rebounds and a ranking of 43
Yale 76 - Tarrie Monroe (202-F-77, agency: R.H.Consultancy, college: Lewis) 30 points
- - -
Goes 84 - Howard Wilkerson (198-F-84, college: Wofford) 14 points 10 rebounds 3 blocks
Waston 81 - Alexander Blackwell (205-F/C-70, agency: Duran International, college: Monmouth) 29 points 11 rebounds
- - -
Capurro 77 - Brian Craig (206-C-79, college: Miles) 13 points 9 rebounds 2 blocks
Olivol Mundial 67
- - -
Nacional 104 - Marcelo Correa (208-C-77, college: San Diego St.) 16 points 9 rebpunds 2 blocks
Marne 77 - Antonio McMillion (196-F-83, college: Md-Eastern Shore) 22 points
- - -
Larre Borges 98 - 'Pop' Thornton (201-F-74, college: W.Kentucky) 31 points
Verdirrojo 85 - Cam-Ron Clay (203-F) 12 points 9 rebounds
- - -
25 de Agosto 85
Urunday Universitario 76

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VENEZUELA

Gaiteros squashed Gigantes 118-77 -by Antonio Gomez
The gaita were listened in Puerto Ordaz. Gaiteros del Zulia defeated Gigantes de Guayana 118-77, at the Hermanas Gonzalez Arena, in the beginning of the fifteen week of the Liga Profesional de Baloncesto (LPB).

Chris Jeffries (199-F-80, college: Wash.-St.Louis) was the best player of the game with 24 points. Also, Hernan Salcedo scored 22 points (8 rebounds) and Ruben Nembhard made others 14. The dominican player Luis Lopez, the most recent acquisition of the zulian troop, made 13 points in 27 minutes.

The musical team reached its victory number 26 of the season. In the other side Carl Krause scored 24 points, Daniel Dominguez made 13 and Justin Allen 12.



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Women News

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ANGOLA - Women

Angola silence Argentina in thriller -by Eurobasket News
Angola - Argentina 59:58

Angolan National team relied on the late surge to claim a narrow victory over Argentina. Thus Angola clinched the quarterfinal birth and sent Argentina packing. Argentina looked favorites for the upcoming battle and they lived up to the status early in the encounter. They held the African side to 7 points in the first frame to grab a 10-point advantage into the second quarter. Angola however played physically and started to prevail. They limited the Latin American side to 9 points in the second term and cut the deficit to 3 points. Angola kept on mounting the pressure and accumulated a 1-point lead at three-quarter time. However Argentina went on a 17:8 run to open the final frame. They held a comfortable 54:46 lead with under 3 minutes remaining but Angola fought back. The African team struck with 10:3 rally that put them in charge 57:56 with 22 seconds left. Angola led 59:56 when Florencia Fernandez (190-C-86) netted two freebies to cut the gap to minimum. Then Stephany Thomas (179-F-89) intercepted the pass and had a chance to win it for Argentina but her last second jumper went wide and Angola celebrated an impressive success.
Astrida Vicente (174-F/G-78) led Angola with 17 points. Nassecela Mauricio (-F-80) dropped 16 points, while Nakiasha Manuel (188-F/C) had 12 points and 14 boards in a winning case. Florencia Fernandez answered with 19 points and 11 boards. Maria Landra (188-F-83) had 11 points and 8 boards, while Stephany Thomas knocked down 10 in a loss. Angola will play versus Czech Republic for the top spot in Group B today.

Angola: Astrida Vicente 17, Nassecela Mauricio 16, Nakiasha Manuel 12+14 boards
Argentina: Florencia Fernandez 19+11 boards, Maria Landra 11, Stephany Thomas 10

Olympic Qualifiers: Angola redeem Africa image beat Argentina 59-58 -by Olusegun Ikuesan
Angola Women national team Tuesday restored Africa pride at the Olympic Women Qualifiers holding in Madrid, Spain with a 59-58 points win over South America power-house, Argentina.

The Africa Queens lost the first quarter to the Argentine by 17-07 points but rallied back to pick the second, third and fourth quarters (16-09, 15-11 and 22-21).

Three Angolan players were in superb form on the night with Astrida Vincente leading the floor with 17 points, forward Nassecela Mauricio had a double double of 16 points and 13 rebounds while Nadir Manuel complete the good work with a double double of 12 points and 14rebounds.

Africa second representative at the qualifiers, Senegal crashed out of proceeding after losing her second group game to Japan Tuesday evening.

The Lioness who were roundly beaten by Latvia (94-34) in her first group-A game Monday were unlucky against the Japanese losing by two points margin 71-69 to bid the 2008 Beijing Olympic Games goodbye.

Bineta Diouf, Fatou Dieng and Aya Traore outstanding performance not withstanding, the first runner-up and host of the 20th FIBA Africa Championship for Women last year still went down to the more determined Japanese side who ends Nigeria hope of making it from the group stage of the Athens 2004 Olympics.

Diouf had a game high of 20 points and 11 rebounds, Dieng recorded 18 points and 3 rebounds while Traore contributed 17 points, 5 rebounds and 3 assists to Senegal failed attempt at securing a ticket to the women basketball event of the 2008 Olympic Games.

Angola will this evening attempt to book a place for the games proper when it takes to the floor against Czech Republic who also defeated the Argentine in her first group game by 77-55 points.

In other games billed for today Brazil will battle Spain for the first position in group-C, both sides enjoyed a smooth first matches beating less fancied Fiji Island.

Latvia will take on Japan for the first ticket in group-A, the odds seems favour Latvia who was ruthless against Senegal but the Japanese can post some surprises and the last match will be between Belarus and Chinese Taipei. Winner of this match qualifies for the quarter-finals and a chance to fight for the fifth ticket to Beijing as the group leader, Cuba is through to the Olympic Games after beating both Belarus and Taipei.

FIBA Olympic Qualifying Tournament for Women: Angola Succumbed to Czech 86-54 -by Olusegun Ikuesan
Africa pride, Angola this evening bow to the superior fire-power of the Czech Republic by 86-54 points in her second and last group-B game.

Angola thus precedes to the last eight and a golden opportunity to battle for a place in the main basketball event of the 2008 Beijing Olympic Games.

The European took the first third and fourth quarter of the explosive match (24-09, 21-10 and 27-14) leaving the second quarter to the Angolan who won by 21-14 points.

Angola guard/forward Astrida Vincente was the only Angolan player to have her name with a double figure of 12 points on the score-sheet.

The teams placed 1st and 2nd in each group will play in the Quarter-Finals; the teams placed 3rd in each group will go home. A total of 12 games will be played in the Preliminary Round.

Angola will now battle group-A leader, Latvia in the fourth quarter-final match on Thursday as Wednesday will be observed by all the teams as rest day.

Brazil will battle Belarus in the first quarter-finals; Cuba will take to the floor against host Spain in the second quarter-finals while Czech Republic engages Japan.

The four quarter-finals winners will qualify for the Olympic Games. The four losers will play in the Semi-Finals and Finals for one remaining qualifying place

Q/Finals Pairing:

Brazil Vs Belarus

Cuba Vs Spain

Czech Vs Japan

Angola Vs Latvia

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ARGENTINA - Women

Angola silence Argentina in thriller -by Eurobasket News
Angola - Argentina 59:58

Angolan National team relied on the late surge to claim a narrow victory over Argentina. Thus Angola clinched the quarterfinal birth and sent Argentina packing. Argentina looked favorites for the upcoming battle and they lived up to the status early in the encounter. They held the African side to 7 points in the first frame to grab a 10-point advantage into the second quarter. Angola however played physically and started to prevail. They limited the Latin American side to 9 points in the second term and cut the deficit to 3 points. Angola kept on mounting the pressure and accumulated a 1-point lead at three-quarter time. However Argentina went on a 17:8 run to open the final frame. They held a comfortable 54:46 lead with under 3 minutes remaining but Angola fought back. The African team struck with 10:3 rally that put them in charge 57:56 with 22 seconds left. Angola led 59:56 when Florencia Fernandez (190-C-86) netted two freebies to cut the gap to minimum. Then Stephany Thomas (179-F-89) intercepted the pass and had a chance to win it for Argentina but her last second jumper went wide and Angola celebrated an impressive success.
Astrida Vicente (174-F/G-78) led Angola with 17 points. Nassecela Mauricio (-F-80) dropped 16 points, while Nakiasha Manuel (188-F/C) had 12 points and 14 boards in a winning case. Florencia Fernandez answered with 19 points and 11 boards. Maria Landra (188-F-83) had 11 points and 8 boards, while Stephany Thomas knocked down 10 in a loss. Angola will play versus Czech Republic for the top spot in Group B today.

Angola: Astrida Vicente 17, Nassecela Mauricio 16, Nakiasha Manuel 12+14 boards
Argentina: Florencia Fernandez 19+11 boards, Maria Landra 11, Stephany Thomas 10

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AUSTRALIA - Women

Townsville Fire sign Flanagan -by Eurobasket News
A feeling of unfinished business and a chance to take on a leadership role has lured in-demand WNBL player Rachel Flanagan (170-G-82) back to Townsville.

In a massive boost to the Fire, after recently losing co-captain Tania Baxter to retirement, Flanagan agreed to a one-year deal with the club yesterday.

The 26-year-old guard played for Townsville for three seasons before moving to Melbourne to play with the Dandenong Rangers last year.

While the Fire always possessed strong rosters during her time in the North, the team never managed to crack a playoffs berth, regularly falling one place short.

After getting a taste of finals action with the Rangers in 2007/08, Flanagan said she was desperate to have the same experience with Townsville.

'In my last season up here we had the team that could have won it and at the beginning of the season we had people saying we would go all the way,' she said.

'It was very disappointing (not to) but if we can, this season we will give it a real shake.

'With my three seasons here we missed out by one or two games and to get that close so many times and not make it, I think the girls are very hungry for it.'

A seven-season veteran of the WNBL, Flanagan has had a solid career to date and averages four points, two rebounds and two assists.

As a result, Townsville were not the only team after her services, with Flanagan entering talks with up to four other clubs. But she said it didn't take much to convince her to return to the Fire.

The South Australian, currently playing for Townsville in the Queensland Australian Basketball League, said she was looking to step into a leadership role at the Fire.

'I have been able to do that this season with the Flames and to put that from ABA into WNBL, I would definitely be looking to be a leader out there on the court,' she said.

'I feel very loyal to the people up here ... so it was a pretty easy decision (to come back) because I want to be a part of the finals and be with Townsville doing that.'

The sudden retirement of 26-year-old Baxter last month left a hole in the Fire roster.

But Townsville coach Peter Buckle said the return of Flanagan would go a long way towards filling that void in the crucial point guard role.

'With Tania going down Jess (Mahony) and Rachael can now take on a little bit more and that's good for their development and good for our club,' he said.

'We have been talking to Rachael for a while, obviously she was in demand ... and clearly she is excited about being here.'

Fire's roster sits at eight players, but an announcement will be made today.
Courtesy of townsvillebulletin.com.au

Team Australia for European tour announced -by Eurobasket News

After the training camp in Cairns it is known which players will travel with Australian National Team on a European tour.

Currently there are 15 players in the roster but that number will decrease on 12 until July 2nd. Opal's head coach Jan Stirling already released three players form the National Team and they are Abby Bishop, Kethleen MacLeod and Samantha Richards. Stirling thanked these three players for their contribution in Olympic campaign. She stated that they helped the team during this process.

In its European tour the Opals will play three games against World vice-champion Russia. All games will be played in Italy after what Stirling will make the final selection for the Olympic Games.

The top stars of Australian National Team Lauren Jackson (196-F/C-81) (196-F/C-81) and Tully Bevilaqua (164-G-72) will miss the tour because of their obligations in WNBA. It is a big problem for the Opals as Jackson is the top scorer of her WNBA team Seattle Storm. She was the fourth scorer in Euroleague for season 07/08 while she finished WNBA 2007 as a top scorer of regular season with 23.8 ppg. Bevilaqua is also one of the most important players of Indiana Fever. In 2007 her team was Eastern Conference regular season champion in WNBA. Coach Stirling also can not count on MVP from the World Championship 2006 Penny Taylor (185-F-81), who decided to take a rest during the entire summer due to long season In Europe.

The Opals will arrive in Italy on Tuesday. The small town Brunico, located in Italian Alps, will be the host of Australian NT. Three games against Russia are scheduled for June 22, 23 and 24.


Roster of Australian NT for Italian tour:


Suzy Batkovic
Rohanee Cox
Hollie Grima
Kristi Harrower
Erin Phillips
Natalie Porter
Alicia Poto
Emma Randall
Jenni Screen
Belinda Snell
Laura Summerton
Carly Wilson

The team will return to Australia on June 27.



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BELARUS - Women

Belarus grabs the second spot -by Eurobasket News
Belarus-Chinese Taipei 81:65 (13-14, 20-13, 20-15, 28-23)

Belarus grabbed the second position in Group D defeating Chinese Taipei 81:65 in the last game. The latter started better, but could not stay on track with Europeans. Three other quarters saw Belarus claiming the victory and taking the ticket from the group. Olga Masilionene (181-F-80, agency: LBM Management), Yelena Leuchanka (196-C-83, college: W.Virginia) and Tatyana Troina (187-C-81, college: S.Carolina) led the winners with 13 points each. Anastasiya Verameyenka (191-C-87) collected 12 points and 10 boards in a win. Chien Wei Chuan (171-G-71) top-scored with 22 points in defeat, whilst Chiang Feng Chun (184-F-81) nailed 17.
Taking into consideration the fact that Belarus played better with the winner of the group Cuba, the team proved it later in the game. Cuba won the opener in FIBA Olympic Qualifying Tournament for Women defeating Chinese Taipei 96:79 in Group D. Yesterday Cuban National team grabbed the second straight win at the Olympic Qualifying tournament in Madrid beating Belarus 68:58.
A jump shot in the lane by Volha Padabed sparked an 8-2 run for Belarus and put them on top for good although they did not pull away. Chinese Taipei started the campaign offensively and produced 14:13 in the opening period without any facts for stats. Belarus recovered later and went to the break having 6 points lead. Another 20 points in the third period lifted them to plus 11 and more confident end of the game. Due to the team game Olga Masilionene, Yelena Leuchanka, Tatyana Troina and Anastasiya Verameyenka led the team to the win. With 28:23 Belarus finished the last period that brought 81:65 as a total.

Belarus:Olga Masilionene 13, Yelena Leuchanka 13+11rebs, Tatyana Troina 13, Anastasiya Verameyenka 12+10 rebs
Chinese Taipei: Chien Wei Chuan 22, Chiang Feng Chun 17

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BRAZIL - Women

Fiji unable to match Brazil -by Eurobasket News
Brazil - Fiji 125:45

Brazil ruined Fiji hopes of reaching the quarterfinal stage by beating them 125:45 on the second day of action in Olympic Qualifying tournament. Brazil who were crowned the South American Champions just a week prior to the competition had little problems holding off brave but inexperienced Fiji players. Brazil thus booked their quarterfinal spot and would need another win to make it to Beijing. Brazilian team quickly stepped up to grab a 29:12 lead into the second term. Fiji struggled to contain the onslaught as they conceded 31 points in the second frame and arrived at halftime trailing by as many as 36 points. Brazil went on a run right after the break and finished the third stanza up by 55 points. The outcome was pretty clear and the Latin American team breezed to a stunning victory at the end. Brazil played without Erica De Souza who stayed in the USA because of an injury. Iziane Castro (183-G/F-82) provided 28 points to lead the charge. Jucimara Dantas (192-C-78) dropped 22 points, while Kelly Santos (192-C-79) notched 15 points and 8 boards for the winners. Valerie Nainima (165-G-86) answered with 17 points for Fiji. Letava Whippy dropped 11 points in defeat. Brazil outrebounded their opponents 47:27 and forced those to 24 turnovers. Fiji also sank only 24% from the field, while Brazil responded with 63% accuracy. Brazil will now face hosting Spain to decide on the winner of Pool C.

Brazil: Iziane Castro 28, Jucimara Dantas 22, Kelly Santos 15
Fiji: Valerie Nainima 17, Letava Whippy 11

Brazil clinches the first spot in Group C -by Eurobasket News
Brazil - Spain 71:68

Brazilian National team celebrated a narrow win over hosting Spain to claim the top place in the Pool C of the Olympic Qualifying tournament held in Madrid. Both teams secured their quarterfinal birth beforehand and looked to get cozier seed for the second stage of the competition. The teams were well matched in the opening stanza and Spain got a 24:23 lead at the first intermission. However the South American champions tightened their defense in the second term as they held their opponents to 11 points. It allowed the visitors to build a 5-point advantage at halftime. Spain struggled to deny the deficit right after the break as Brazil stayed at distance. Moreover the Latin American side cleared off to an 11-point buffer. Spaniards refused to surrender as Ana Montanana (186-F-80, college: George Washington) hit three-pointer to make it 66:67 with just 16 seconds left in the final frame. Iziane Castro (183-G/F-82) was deadly from the charity stripe to give Brazil a 69:66 cushion but Amaya Valdemoro cut it back to one. Spain had to foul and Claudia Das Neves sealed the winning outcome from charity stripe. Ana Montanana had a chance to force overtime but her buzzer-beater rimmed out. Iziane Castro led the winners with 18 points. Micaela Jacintho (180-F-79) provided 17 points, while Kelly Santos (192-C-79) had 10 for Brazil. Ana Montanana topscored with 20 points and 6 boards for Spain. Laia Palau (178-G/F-79) had 17 points in defeat. The teams were well matched on the boards pulling down 33 boards apiece. Brazil converted 43% from the field, while holding the home side to 37%.

Brazil: Iziane Castro 18, Micaela Jacintho 17, Kelly Santos 10
Spain: Ana Montanana 20, Laia Palau 17

Brazilian National Team 2008 -by Richard
#s#
#e#6


da Costa


Jacintho


Castro


Dantas


Santos
4 Natalia Burian (163-G-84)
5 Karla da Costa (173-G-78)
6 Jacqueline Silvestre (178-F-86)
7 Micaela Jacintho (180-F-79)
8 Iziane Castro (183-G/F-82)
9 Claudia Das Neves (172-G-75)
10 Jucimara Dantas (192-C-78)
11 Soeli Zakrzeski (187-C/F-77)
12 Patricia Ferreira (180-F/G-79)
13 Franciele Nascimiento (187-F/C-87)
14 Graziane Coelho (192-C-83)
15 Kelly Santos (192-C-79)
Head Coach : Paulo Bassul

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CANADA - Women

Senior Women's National Team announces tryout roster and schedule -by Simon Yau
TORONTO - Senior Women's National Team head coach Allison McNeill is excited about the possibilities heading into the team's invitational tryout next month.

Two dozen of the country's top players will be competing for a roster spot at Georgian College in Barrie, Ont., on July 3 and 4.

Team Canada also will be holding an open tryout on July 2 at York University in Toronto. Up to six players may be selected from the session, earning an invitation to compete for a spot on either the Senior or Development Women's National squads.

'Both our Senior and Development Team coaching staffs are really excited about the group of athletes coming into this tryout by invitation,' said McNeill as Canada Basketball announced the training camp schedule on Friday. 'We are having a session that will bring together athletes from last summer's Senior, Young Women's, Development and Junior Teams. I expect this to be an extremely competitive tryout and training camp.'

Training camp will follow for both the Development and Senior women's squads immediately after McNeill and her staff decide on a final pool of athletes. Both teams will be part of a mega-camp at Georgian College from July 5-18. The two squads will go their separate ways after that.

Canada's Senior Women are slated to travel to Europe this summer, competing against top tier international squads from France, Italy, Germany, Poland, Belarus, the Slovak Republic and the Olympic-bound team from Mali.

The Development Women's team will travel to China in late July to compete in an international tournament in Shanghai, facing tournament and Olympic hosts, the Chinese Senior Women's National Team.

'We are using this summer as development as we prepare for our next squad heading towards the 2010 World Championships and the 2012 Olympic Games,'Aâ€sA‚Âť explained McNeill.

Training Camp Roster

Jordan Adams - Forward - Birmingham Power (NWBL) Overton, NV 6'3
Uzoma Asagwara - Guard - University of Winnipeg, Winnipeg, MB 5'9
Chelsea Aubry - Forward - Nebraska, Kitchener, ON 6'2
Miranda Ayim - Forward - Pepperdine University, London, ON 6'3
Krysten Boogaard - Centre - U. Kansas, Regina, SK 6'5
Amanda Brown - Forward - Penn State, Montreal, QC 6'4
Kaitlyn Burke - Guard - U. Nebraska, Vancouver, BC 5'7
Devon Campbell - Guard - Universitario de Ferrol (Spain), Langley, BC 5'10
Kaela Chapdelaine - Guard - U. Oregon, Abbotsford, BC 5'10
Sarah Crooks - Forward - Universitario de Ferrol (Spain), Fife Lake, SK 6'1
Natalie Doma - Centre - Idaho State, Victoria, BC 6'3
Teresa Gabriele - Guard - Simon Fraser, Misson, BC 5'5
Marie-Michelle Genois - Forward - Laval University, Cap-SantAAâ€sA‚©, QC 6'2
Isabelle Grenier - Guard - BG Zehlendorf (Germany), Sainte-Foy, QC 5'10
Kalisha Keane - Forward - Michigan State, Ajax, ON 6'1
Lizanne Murphy - Forward - Honsu (Finland), Beaconsfield, QC 6'1
Megan Pinske - Guard - U. British Columbia, Coquitlam, BC 5'10
Kadie Riverin - Guard - Rice University, Ottawa, ON 5'9
Kendel Ross - Forward - U. Dayton, Sarnia, ON 6'1
Chanelle St. Amour - Guard - CAAâ€sA‚©gep de Sainte-Foy, Montreal, QC 5'8
Alisha Tatham - Guard - U. Massachusetts, Brampton, ON 5'11
Tamara Tatham - Forward - Catz (Finland), Brampton, ON 6'1
Shiela Townsend - Guard - Valosun KP Brno (Czech Republic), Maple Ridge, BC 5'8
Tara Watts - Guard - Rice University, Surrey, BC 5'9

For more, visit: www.basketball.ca

Canada's junior women hold tryout to prep for FIBA Americas -by Eurobasket News
About two dozen players from across the country have been invited to compete for a spot on the 2008 Junior Women's National Team (JWNT), Canada Basketball announced Monday. The invitational tryout will take place at Georgian College in Barrie, Ont., July 11-12.

The Canadian JWNT will be competing this summer in the FIBA U18 Americas Championship July 23-27 in Buenos Aires, Argentina.

Before the invitational tryout, Canada Basketball will hold an open tryout on July 10 at Father Redmond Catholic Secondary School, in Toronto (Etobicoke) from 6-9pm. Athletes intending to participate in the open tryout must pre-register by sending an email to: swnttryouts@basketball.ca with email subject 'JWNT Open Tryout'.

'I am extremely excited about our Under 18 National Team this summer and our coaching staff is looking forward to working with the best young players in the country,' said Rich Chambers, Head Coach of the JWNT.

'I had the privilege of working with the National Elite Development Academy players two weeks ago, and I attended the National Championships last summer, and without question there are some wonderful players throughout the country,' continued the legendary B.C. high school coach. 'The tryouts will hopefully bring out the best in these outstanding athletes and I am confident that we will have a team that will represent our country well in Argentina this July.'

Canada's Junior Women's National Team captured a silver medal in the 2006 U18 FIBA Americas Championships in Colorado Springs, Colo., followed by a ninth place finish at the 2007 FIBA U19 World Championships in the Slovak Republic.

The 2008 Canadian squad will seek to improve upon that standing, but first must finish within the top four in Argentina to qualify for the FIBA World U19 Championship for Women to be held in Thailand July 23-August 2, 2009.

Once the final roster has been selected, Canada's Junior Women's National Team will train at Georgian College from July 13-19 before leaving for Argentina.
Courtesy of basketball.ca

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CHINA - Women

Belarus grabs the second spot -by Eurobasket News
Belarus-Chinese Taipei 81:65 (13-14, 20-13, 20-15, 28-23)

Belarus grabbed the second position in Group D defeating Chinese Taipei 81:65 in the last game. The latter started better, but could not stay on track with Europeans. Three other quarters saw Belarus claiming the victory and taking the ticket from the group. Olga Masilionene (181-F-80, agency: LBM Management), Yelena Leuchanka (196-C-83, college: W.Virginia) and Tatyana Troina (187-C-81, college: S.Carolina) led the winners with 13 points each. Anastasiya Verameyenka (191-C-87) collected 12 points and 10 boards in a win. Chien Wei Chuan (171-G-71) top-scored with 22 points in defeat, whilst Chiang Feng Chun (184-F-81) nailed 17.
Taking into consideration the fact that Belarus played better with the winner of the group Cuba, the team proved it later in the game. Cuba won the opener in FIBA Olympic Qualifying Tournament for Women defeating Chinese Taipei 96:79 in Group D. Yesterday Cuban National team grabbed the second straight win at the Olympic Qualifying tournament in Madrid beating Belarus 68:58.
A jump shot in the lane by Volha Padabed sparked an 8-2 run for Belarus and put them on top for good although they did not pull away. Chinese Taipei started the campaign offensively and produced 14:13 in the opening period without any facts for stats. Belarus recovered later and went to the break having 6 points lead. Another 20 points in the third period lifted them to plus 11 and more confident end of the game. Due to the team game Olga Masilionene, Yelena Leuchanka, Tatyana Troina and Anastasiya Verameyenka led the team to the win. With 28:23 Belarus finished the last period that brought 81:65 as a total.

Belarus:Olga Masilionene 13, Yelena Leuchanka 13+11rebs, Tatyana Troina 13, Anastasiya Verameyenka 12+10 rebs
Chinese Taipei: Chien Wei Chuan 22, Chiang Feng Chun 17

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EUROLEAGUE (W) - Women

Spartak MR hires Laszlo Ratgeber -by Eurobasket News
Hungarian coach Laszlo Ratgeber agreed terms with reining Euroleague champion Spartak MR. Couple of days ago Ratgeber parted ways way with Hungarian team MiZo Pecs after 15 years. During this long period his team made great success. They participated on the Euroleague Final 4 three times while the team also became Hungarian championship winner 9 times. The same number of titles they had in Hungarian National Cup. In his interview from couple of days ago he stated that he already agreed terms with one club but he didn't want to announced its name. Now it is clear that his new team is Spartak MR.

In short interview, which Ratgeber gave for agency Beta on Monday, he said: 'I travel to Moscow tomorrow where I will have press conference and official promotion as a new Spartak's head coach. Nobody won 3 consecutive titles in Euroleague and it is our target for the next season.'

Ratgerebr also said he will return to Hungary in January 2008 when qualifications for European Championships will start. Current head coach of Hungarian women National Team confirmed that he will remain on his position for the second part of qualifications, which will be held in April.

'I had many thoughts and I realized that I have nothing to loose. I am the first coach from Hungary who will lead the top European team and I am very proud on that' - said Ratgeber.

Ratgeber signed 1+1 deal with his new club.

*****************************************************
FIJI - Women

Fiji unable to match Brazil -by Eurobasket News
Brazil - Fiji 125:45

Brazil ruined Fiji hopes of reaching the quarterfinal stage by beating them 125:45 on the second day of action in Olympic Qualifying tournament. Brazil who were crowned the South American Champions just a week prior to the competition had little problems holding off brave but inexperienced Fiji players. Brazil thus booked their quarterfinal spot and would need another win to make it to Beijing. Brazilian team quickly stepped up to grab a 29:12 lead into the second term. Fiji struggled to contain the onslaught as they conceded 31 points in the second frame and arrived at halftime trailing by as many as 36 points. Brazil went on a run right after the break and finished the third stanza up by 55 points. The outcome was pretty clear and the Latin American team breezed to a stunning victory at the end. Brazil played without Erica De Souza who stayed in the USA because of an injury. Iziane Castro (183-G/F-82) provided 28 points to lead the charge. Jucimara Dantas (192-C-78) dropped 22 points, while Kelly Santos (192-C-79) notched 15 points and 8 boards for the winners. Valerie Nainima (165-G-86) answered with 17 points for Fiji. Letava Whippy dropped 11 points in defeat. Brazil outrebounded their opponents 47:27 and forced those to 24 turnovers. Fiji also sank only 24% from the field, while Brazil responded with 63% accuracy. Brazil will now face hosting Spain to decide on the winner of Pool C.

Brazil: Iziane Castro 28, Jucimara Dantas 22, Kelly Santos 15
Fiji: Valerie Nainima 17, Letava Whippy 11

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FINLAND - Women

Transfer News: Taru Tuukkanen changes scenery -by Rauno Hurmalainen
After six seasons in Spain Finnish NT Player Taru Tuukkanen (190-C-77, college: Xavier) has signed with Italian Pro Team Phard Napoli Basket. Tuukkanen will play in Italy under Head Coach Fabio Fossati 2008-09 season. Passed season Tuukkanen played at Canary Islands (Gran Canaria La Caja de Canarias) averaging 15,6 ppg - 7,4 rpg in 26 games. Minna Sten (191-F-87) instead has returned back to Finland after two years at LIU in NY, USA. Sten will play the next two seasons on Catz (Lappeenranta) roster.

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FRANCE - Women

Gruda and her Connecticut Sun remained the top team -by Eurobasket News
Sandrine Gruda (192-F/C-87) and her Connecticut Sun remained the top team in the league after they sent Minnesota to 6-2 record beating them away from home 66:75. Asjha Jones led the charge with 20 points as the Sun improved to 8-1 record. Lindsay Whalen had some nice moments in the area as she returned to her home state to come up with a sizzling performance. The University of Minnesota graduate knocked down 14 points, grabbed 8 boards and dished out 6 assists to help the Sun handle the Lynx. Barbara Turner nailed 18 points, while Tamika Whitmore posted 14 points and 12 rebounds for the winners. Candice Wiggins responded with 22 points for Minnesota. Seimone Augustus had 11 points in a losing effort. Sandrine Gruda collected 3 rebounds, 1 steal and 1 block-shot. The hosts led comfortable by 9 points at halftime following a stunning 23:10 second frame. But the Sun rallied back in the second half and pulled away another confident win in the season.
The Minnesota Lynx got a small pause but quickly resumed their winning rally as they beat the San Antonio Silver Stars with Edwige Lawson (167-G-79) for the 6th win in the season. Charde Houston nailed 11 points in the second half and the Lynx outgunned the visitors in the fourth period to improve to 6-1 record. Seimone Augustus paced the team in the first half as she knocked down 12 points and allowed the hosts to enjoy a 6-point advantage at halftime. Charde Houston finished with 15 points, Seimone Augustus had 18 for the winners. They eclipsed Ann Wauters as the Silver Stars centre matched her career high 24 points and 10 boards in a losing case. Edwige Lawson ended up with 6 points, 3 assists and 2 rebounds. The visitors arrived to Minnesota without Sophia Young who was sidelined with a strained groin. Becky Hammon notched 14 points in a loss. It was the fourth straight road loss for the Silver Stars in the season.

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GERMANY - Women

Roster changes in Goettingen -by Cornelius Damm
Only a couple of weeks ago it seemed as the era of female high class basketball in BG 74 Goettingen had come to an end as the club announced massive financial problems. But the fanatic fans of BG 74 Goettingen basketball refused to let tradition die. In numerous fundraising activities they eventually made the miracle happen and where able to save first league basketball in their hometown.

Now the club reported the first roster changes for the upcoming season. Riikka Lehtonen (178-C-82, agency: Rasmussen Services), Petra Simoncicova (175-F-85) and Bettina Bode (193-C-80, agency: Rasmussen Services) won't return to the team. Head coach Vlastibor Klimes also admitted that it will be quite difficult keeping Ofa Tulikihihifo (180-G/F-84, agency: Rasmussen Services, college: CSU Northridge) in Gottingen after her blowout rookie year last season. The Eurobasket.com All-DBBL 2007/08 1st Team selection and perhaps the best overall player in the DBBL was one of the main reasons for the huge turnaround of the program from tenth place in 06/07 to fourth place in 07/08. Still they haven't given up the hope that she will return.

Meanwhile two Bosmans will strengthen the 1.DBBL club. Sarka Chocholata (180-F-84) Kucerova comes from BK Lokomotiva Karlovy Vary (Czech Republic first league ZBL) and in addition Lucie Mullerova (189-88) also joins Gottingen. The Czech U20 national player leaves this year Slovakian Extraliga last team Cityfarma Spartak Myjava.

Almind and Nawrotek depart from Saarlouis -by Cornelius Damm
Desire Almind (180-F-82, agency: LBM Management, college: Bucknell) captain and topscorer of the 2007/08 DBBL runner-up Saarlouis will head on to Szeviep Szeged. After three years with the Royals the Eurobasket.com All-DBBL 2007/08 2nd Team selection is looking forward to a new challenge with the Hungarian EuroCup team. To do so she rejected a 'considerable salary increase' by the Royals as it is said on the teams webpage.

Former Polish youth national player Dominika Nawrotek (187-F-87) will return to her home country in order to finish school and achieve her university degree. According to the Royals announcement she is willing to extend her playing career in the Polish first league PLKK.

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JAPAN - Women

Japan gives Latvia scares, but falls short at the end -by Eurobasket News
Japan - Latvia 69:83

Latvian National team completed their Olympic Qualifying tournament preliminary round campaign in style beating Japan in the second game of the competition. Thus Latvia clinched the top spot in Group A, while Japan finished at the second spot and also booked their quarterfinal birth. Latvia and Japan exchanged the baskets throughout the starting frame and Latvian team enjoyed a 20:19 advantage at the first intermission. Latvian team stretched the lead to 4 points at halftime. But Japan stayed in the race. They relied on a sizzling shooting performance from Ryoko Yano (178-F-78) to finally draw level at 62:62. The Asian team then surged ahead 64:62 early in the fourth period but Latvian players remained alert. Ieva Tare (185-F-74) notched 4 straight points to regain the lead for Latvia. Japanese team tried hard to snatch a victory and trailed by just 2 points with less than 5 minutes to go in regulation. Ieva Kublina (193-C-82, college: Virginia Tech) and Liene Jansone (188-F/C-81, college: Siena) came up with back-to-back jumpers and Latvia rolled ahead for good. Ieva Tare finished with game-high 25 points for Latvia. Anete Jekabsone-Zogota (176-F-83) posted 18 points, while Liene Jansone had 16 points and caroms in a win. Ryoko Yano responded with 20 points including 6/12 three-pointers for Japan. Al Mitani (181-F-78) registered 16 points and 6 boards in defeat. Latvia outrebounded their opponents 34:22 and shot 53% from the field. Japan managed 38% of field goals but committed just 13 turnovers down the stretch.

Japan: Ryoko Yano 20, Al Mitani 16
Latvia: Ieva Tare 25, Anete Jekabsone-Zogota 18, Liene Jansone 16

First place in Group A reserved for Latvia, Japan second -by Eurobasket News

Latvia outplayed Japan 83-69 in third round of FIBA Olympic Qualifying Tournament in Madrid sealing the first place in Group A. Japan was better than Senegal yesterday but after today's defeat it was enough just for the second place. Senegal finished the tournament winless on the bottom of Group A.

Latvia, which smashed Senegal in their first game in Madrid, had to work very hard in order to beat Japan. Japanese demonstrated great performance until the end of the third quarter. Actually they entered into the crucial 10 minutes with 3 points lead. Latvia struggled a lot against Jepenese Ryoko Yano (178-F-78), who netted 5 of 8 triples for the first three quarters. One of the most important reasons for Latvia's victory was their fans who showed up in Madrid. Japan was close to make a surprise but Ieva Tare (185-F-74) stopped them in the last stanza. Tara shined when it was the most important for Latvia netting 12 of her 25 points in the last 7:48. Japan didn't give up coming pretty close but Ieva Tare, Ieva Kublina (193-C-82, college: Virginia Tech) and Liene Jansone (188-F/C-81, college: Siena) completed 12-0 run with 4:37 remaining sealing the first place for Latvia in Group A.

Ieva Tare paced the winners collecting 25 points and 4 rebounds. Anete Jekabsone-Zogota (176-F-83) followed her scoring 18 points while Liene Jansone also was good finishing the game with 16 points and 8 rebounds. Japan got 20 points from Ryoko Yano. Ai Mitani was the last one with double figures for Japan adding 16 points and 6 rebounds.



Latvia - Japan 83-69
(20-19,21-18,17-24,25-8)

Latvia: Tare 25 (4 rebs), Jekabsone-Zogota 18, Jansone 16 (8 rebs), Kublina 15
Japan: Yano 20, Mitani 16 ( 6 rebs), Ishikava 7



Japanese National Team 2008 -by Richard
#s#
#e#6


Koiso


Ishikawa


Mitani


Yano


Oga

4 Yuko Aizawa (166-G-73) of Chanson V-Magic

5 Noriko Koiso (183-C-74)
6 Naomi Yashiro (182-C-77) of Rabitts
7 Sachiko Ishikawa (178-F-78) of Chanson V-Magic
8 Al Mitani (181-F-78) of Red Wave
9 Mayumi Funabiki (174-G-78) of Red Wave
10 Ryoko Yano (178-F-78) of Red Wave
11 Jumiko Yamada (192-C-79) of Sunflowers
12 Asami Yoshida (165-G-87) of Sunflowers
13 Yuko Oga (170-G-82) of Sunflowers
14 Rika Tanaka (173-G-82) of Sunflowers
15 Ryoko Utsumi (175-G-85) of Sunflowers

Head Coach: Tomohide Utsumi



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LATVIA - Women

Latvian National Team 2008 -by Richard
#s#
#e#6


Basko


Jansone


Jekabsone-Zogota


Tare


Kublina

4 Elina Babkina (172-G-89)
5 Anda Eibele (170-G-84)
6 Zane Eglite (170-G-84)
7 Zane Tamane (194-C-83)
8 Gunta Basko (181-F-80)
9 Liene Jansone (192-F/C-81)
10 Anete Jekabsone-Zogota (176-F-83)
11 Aija Putnina (191-F-88)
12 Dita Krumberga (183-G/F-84)
13 Ieva Tare (185-F-74)
14 Ieva Kublina (193-C-82)
15 Aija Brumermane (191-C-86)
Head Coach: Ainars Zvirgzdins



Japan gives Latvia scares, but falls short at the end -by Eurobasket News
Japan - Latvia 69:83

Latvian National team completed their Olympic Qualifying tournament preliminary round campaign in style beating Japan in the second game of the competition. Thus Latvia clinched the top spot in Group A, while Japan finished at the second spot and also booked their quarterfinal birth. Latvia and Japan exchanged the baskets throughout the starting frame and Latvian team enjoyed a 20:19 advantage at the first intermission. Latvian team stretched the lead to 4 points at halftime. But Japan stayed in the race. They relied on a sizzling shooting performance from Ryoko Yano (178-F-78) to finally draw level at 62:62. The Asian team then surged ahead 64:62 early in the fourth period but Latvian players remained alert. Ieva Tare (185-F-74) notched 4 straight points to regain the lead for Latvia. Japanese team tried hard to snatch a victory and trailed by just 2 points with less than 5 minutes to go in regulation. Ieva Kublina (193-C-82, college: Virginia Tech) and Liene Jansone (188-F/C-81, college: Siena) came up with back-to-back jumpers and Latvia rolled ahead for good. Ieva Tare finished with game-high 25 points for Latvia. Anete Jekabsone-Zogota (176-F-83) posted 18 points, while Liene Jansone had 16 points and caroms in a win. Ryoko Yano responded with 20 points including 6/12 three-pointers for Japan. Al Mitani (181-F-78) registered 16 points and 6 boards in defeat. Latvia outrebounded their opponents 34:22 and shot 53% from the field. Japan managed 38% of field goals but committed just 13 turnovers down the stretch.

Japan: Ryoko Yano 20, Al Mitani 16
Latvia: Ieva Tare 25, Anete Jekabsone-Zogota 18, Liene Jansone 16

First place in Group A reserved for Latvia, Japan second -by Eurobasket News

Latvia outplayed Japan 83-69 in third round of FIBA Olympic Qualifying Tournament in Madrid sealing the first place in Group A. Japan was better than Senegal yesterday but after today's defeat it was enough just for the second place. Senegal finished the tournament winless on the bottom of Group A.

Latvia, which smashed Senegal in their first game in Madrid, had to work very hard in order to beat Japan. Japanese demonstrated great performance until the end of the third quarter. Actually they entered into the crucial 10 minutes with 3 points lead. Latvia struggled a lot against Jepenese Ryoko Yano (178-F-78), who netted 5 of 8 triples for the first three quarters. One of the most important reasons for Latvia's victory was their fans who showed up in Madrid. Japan was close to make a surprise but Ieva Tare (185-F-74) stopped them in the last stanza. Tara shined when it was the most important for Latvia netting 12 of her 25 points in the last 7:48. Japan didn't give up coming pretty close but Ieva Tare, Ieva Kublina (193-C-82, college: Virginia Tech) and Liene Jansone (188-F/C-81, college: Siena) completed 12-0 run with 4:37 remaining sealing the first place for Latvia in Group A.

Ieva Tare paced the winners collecting 25 points and 4 rebounds. Anete Jekabsone-Zogota (176-F-83) followed her scoring 18 points while Liene Jansone also was good finishing the game with 16 points and 8 rebounds. Japan got 20 points from Ryoko Yano. Ai Mitani was the last one with double figures for Japan adding 16 points and 6 rebounds.



Latvia - Japan 83-69
(20-19,21-18,17-24,25-8)

Latvia: Tare 25 (4 rebs), Jekabsone-Zogota 18, Jansone 16 (8 rebs), Kublina 15
Japan: Yano 20, Mitani 16 ( 6 rebs), Ishikava 7



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OLYMPIC GAMES - Women

Olympic Qualifying tournament. Day 3 -by Eurobasket News
Brazil - Spain 71:68

Brazilian National team celebrated a narrow win over hosting Spain to claim the top place in the Pool C of the Olympic Qualifying tournament held in Madrid. Both teams secured their quarterfinal birth beforehand and looked to get cozier seed for the second stage of the competition. The teams were well matched in the opening stanza and Spain got a 24:23 lead at the first intermission. However the South American champions tightened their defense in the second term as they held their opponents to 11 points. It allowed the visitors to build a 5-point advantage at halftime. Spain struggled to deny the deficit right after the break as Brazil stayed at distance. Moreover the Latin American side cleared off to an 11-point buffer. Spaniards refused to surrender as Ana Montanana (186-F-80, college: George Washington) hit three-pointer to make it 66:67 with just 16 seconds left in the final frame. Iziane Castro (183-G/F-82) was deadly from the charity stripe to give Brazil a 69:66 cushion but Amaya Valdemoro cut it back to one. Spain had to foul and Claudia Das Neves sealed the winning outcome from charity stripe. Ana Montanana had a chance to force overtime but her buzzer-beater rimmed out. Iziane Castro led the winners with 18 points. Micaela Jacintho (180-F-79) provided 17 points, while Kelly Santos (192-C-79) had 10 for Brazil. Ana Montanana topscored with 20 points and 6 boards for Spain. Laia Palau (178-G/F-79) had 17 points in defeat. The teams were well matched on the boards pulling down 33 boards apiece. Brazil converted 43% from the field, while holding the home side to 37%.

Brazil: Iziane Castro 18, Micaela Jacintho 17, Kelly Santos 10
Spain: Ana Montanana 20, Laia Palau 17

Japan - Latvia 69:83
Latvian National team completed their Olympic Qualifying tournament preliminary round campaign in style beating Japan in the second game of the competition. Thus Latvia clinched the top spot in Group A, while Japan finished at the second spot and also booked their quarterfinal birth. Latvia and Japan exchanged the baskets throughout the starting frame and Latvian team enjoyed a 20:19 advantage at the first intermission. Latvian team stretched the lead to 4 points at halftime. But Japan stayed in the race. They relied on a sizzling shooting performance from Ryoko Yano (178-F-78) to finally draw level at 62:62. The Asian team then surged ahead 64:62 early in the fourth period but Latvian players remained alert. Ieva Tare (185-F-74) notched 4 straight points to regain the lead for Latvia. Japanese team tried hard to snatch a victory and trailed by just 2 points with less than 5 minutes to go in regulation. Ieva Kublina (193-C-82, college: Virginia Tech) and Liene Jansone (188-F/C-81, college: Siena) came up with back-to-back jumpers and Latvia rolled ahead for good. Ieva Tare finished with game-high 25 points for Latvia. Anete Jekabsone-Zogota (176-F-83) posted 18 points, while Liene Jansone had 16 points and caroms in a win. Ryoko Yano responded with 20 points including 6/12 three-pointers for Japan. Al Mitani (181-F-78) registered 16 points and 6 boards in defeat. Latvia outrebounded their opponents 34:22 and shot 53% from the field. Japan managed 38% of field goals but committed just 13 turnovers down the stretch.

Japan: Ryoko Yano 20, Al Mitani 16
Latvia: Ieva Tare 25, Anete Jekabsone-Zogota 18, Liene Jansone 16

Belarus-Chinese Taipei 81:65
Belarus grabbed the second position in Group D defeating Chinese Taipei 81:65 in the last game. The latter started better, but could not stay on track with Europeans. Three other quarters saw Belarus claiming the victory and taking the ticket from the group. Olga Masilionene (181-F-80, agency: LBM Management), Yelena Leuchanka (196-C-83, college: W.Virginia) and Tatyana Troina (187-C-81, college: S.Carolina) led the winners with 13 points each. Anastasiya Verameyenka (191-C-87) collected 12 points and 10 boards in a win. Chien Wei Chuan (171-G-71) top-scored with 22 points in defeat, whilst Chiang Feng Chun (184-F-81) nailed 17.
Taking into consideration the fact that Belarus played better with the winner of the group Cuba, the team proved it later in the game. Cuba won the opener in FIBA Olympic Qualifying Tournament for Women defeating Chinese Taipei 96:79 in Group D. Yesterday Cuban National team grabbed the second straight win at the Olympic Qualifying tournament in Madrid beating Belarus 68:58.
A jump shot in the lane by Volha Padabed sparked an 8-2 run for Belarus and put them on top for good although they did not pull away. Chinese Taipei started the campaign offensively and produced 14:13 in the opening period without any facts for stats. Belarus recovered later and went to the break having 6 points lead. Another 20 points in the third period lifted them to plus 11 and more confident end of the game. Due to the team game Olga Masilionene, Yelena Leuchanka, Tatyana Troina and Anastasiya Verameyenka led the team to the win. With 28:23 Belarus finished the last period that brought 81:65 as a total.

Belarus:Olga Masilionene 13, Yelena Leuchanka 13+11rebs, Tatyana Troina 13, Anastasiya Verameyenka 12+10 rebs
Chinese Taipei: Chien Wei Chuan 22, Chiang Feng Chun 17


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RUSSIA - Women

Spartak MR hires Laszlo Ratgeber -by Eurobasket News
Hungarian coach Laszlo Ratgeber agreed terms with reining Euroleague champion Spartak MR. Couple of days ago Ratgeber parted ways way with Hungarian team MiZo Pecs after 15 years. During this long period his team made great success. They participated on the Euroleague Final 4 three times while the team also became Hungarian championship winner 9 times. The same number of titles they had in Hungarian National Cup. In his interview from couple of days ago he stated that he already agreed terms with one club but he didn't want to announced its name. Now it is clear that his new team is Spartak MR.

In short interview, which Ratgeber gave for agency Beta on Monday, he said: 'I travel to Moscow tomorrow where I will have press conference and official promotion as a new Spartak's head coach. Nobody won 3 consecutive titles in Euroleague and it is our target for the next season.'

Ratgerebr also said he will return to Hungary in January 2008 when qualifications for European Championships will start. Current head coach of Hungarian women National Team confirmed that he will remain on his position for the second part of qualifications, which will be held in April.

'I had many thoughts and I realized that I have nothing to loose. I am the first coach from Hungary who will lead the top European team and I am very proud on that' - said Ratgeber.

Ratgeber signed 1+1 deal with his new club.

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SENEGAL - Women

Olympic Qualifiers: Angola redeem Africa image beat Argentina 59-58 -by Olusegun Ikuesan
Angola Women national team Tuesday restored Africa pride at the Olympic Women Qualifiers holding in Madrid, Spain with a 59-58 points win over South America power-house, Argentina.

The Africa Queens lost the first quarter to the Argentine by 17-07 points but rallied back to pick the second, third and fourth quarters (16-09, 15-11 and 22-21).

Three Angolan players were in superb form on the night with Astrida Vincente leading the floor with 17 points, forward Nassecela Mauricio had a double double of 16 points and 13 rebounds while Nadir Manuel complete the good work with a double double of 12 points and 14rebounds.

Africa second representative at the qualifiers, Senegal crashed out of proceeding after losing her second group game to Japan Tuesday evening.

The Lioness who were roundly beaten by Latvia (94-34) in her first group-A game Monday were unlucky against the Japanese losing by two points margin 71-69 to bid the 2008 Beijing Olympic Games goodbye.

Bineta Diouf, Fatou Dieng and Aya Traore outstanding performance not withstanding, the first runner-up and host of the 20th FIBA Africa Championship for Women last year still went down to the more determined Japanese side who ends Nigeria hope of making it from the group stage of the Athens 2004 Olympics.

Diouf had a game high of 20 points and 11 rebounds, Dieng recorded 18 points and 3 rebounds while Traore contributed 17 points, 5 rebounds and 3 assists to Senegal failed attempt at securing a ticket to the women basketball event of the 2008 Olympic Games.

Angola will this evening attempt to book a place for the games proper when it takes to the floor against Czech Republic who also defeated the Argentine in her first group game by 77-55 points.

In other games billed for today Brazil will battle Spain for the first position in group-C, both sides enjoyed a smooth first matches beating less fancied Fiji Island.

Latvia will take on Japan for the first ticket in group-A, the odds seems favour Latvia who was ruthless against Senegal but the Japanese can post some surprises and the last match will be between Belarus and Chinese Taipei. Winner of this match qualifies for the quarter-finals and a chance to fight for the fifth ticket to Beijing as the group leader, Cuba is through to the Olympic Games after beating both Belarus and Taipei.

FIBA Olympic Qualifying Tournament for Women: Angola Succumbed to Czech 86-54 -by Olusegun Ikuesan
Africa pride, Angola this evening bow to the superior fire-power of the Czech Republic by 86-54 points in her second and last group-B game.

Angola thus precedes to the last eight and a golden opportunity to battle for a place in the main basketball event of the 2008 Beijing Olympic Games.

The European took the first third and fourth quarter of the explosive match (24-09, 21-10 and 27-14) leaving the second quarter to the Angolan who won by 21-14 points.

Angola guard/forward Astrida Vincente was the only Angolan player to have her name with a double figure of 12 points on the score-sheet.

The teams placed 1st and 2nd in each group will play in the Quarter-Finals; the teams placed 3rd in each group will go home. A total of 12 games will be played in the Preliminary Round.

Angola will now battle group-A leader, Latvia in the fourth quarter-final match on Thursday as Wednesday will be observed by all the teams as rest day.

Brazil will battle Belarus in the first quarter-finals; Cuba will take to the floor against host Spain in the second quarter-finals while Czech Republic engages Japan.

The four quarter-finals winners will qualify for the Olympic Games. The four losers will play in the Semi-Finals and Finals for one remaining qualifying place

Q/Finals Pairing:

Brazil Vs Belarus

Cuba Vs Spain

Czech Vs Japan

Angola Vs Latvia

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SERBIA - Women

Sonja Petrovic in Russia -by Dragana Vukovic
After a very sucessfull season in Frace with Cercle Jean Mace Bourges,Sonja Petrovic (189-F-89) decided to continue her carrier in Russia.She signed contract with Spartak Moscow Region,the winner of the Women EuroLeague.Sonja Petrovic was on the Final Four of Women EuroLeague with her team Cercle Jean Mace Bourges and they took the 4th place.In France she won the Cup and the title with Cercle Jean Mace Bourges.In French championship she was averaging 20.9 minutes,6.9 points and 4.6 rebounds while in EuroLeague she had average of 21.1 minutes,7.4 points and 5.1 rebounds.Sonja Petrovic was voted as the best Young Player in Europe for the year 2007.This summer she is having U20 European Championship and also with senior team Qualification Round for European Championship 2009.

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SPAIN - Women

Spanish National Team 2008 -by Richard
#s#
#e#6


Lima


Palau


Montanana


Valdemoro


Torrens

4 Laura Nicholls (189-C-89)
5 Cindy Lima (192-C-81)
6 Tamara Abalde (192-G-89)
7 Isabel Sanchez (178-G-76)
8 Lucila Pascua (196-C-83)
9 Laia Palau (178-G/F-79)
10 Elisa Aguilar (178-G-76)
11 Silvia Dominguez (166-G-87)
12 Ana Montanana (186-F-80)
13 Amaya Valdemoro (184-F-76)
14 Maria Revuelto (182-G-82)
15 Alba Torrens (191-F-89)
Head Coach: Evaristo Perez



Brazil clinches the first spot in Group C -by Eurobasket News
Brazil - Spain 71:68

Brazilian National team celebrated a narrow win over hosting Spain to claim the top place in the Pool C of the Olympic Qualifying tournament held in Madrid. Both teams secured their quarterfinal birth beforehand and looked to get cozier seed for the second stage of the competition. The teams were well matched in the opening stanza and Spain got a 24:23 lead at the first intermission. However the South American champions tightened their defense in the second term as they held their opponents to 11 points. It allowed the visitors to build a 5-point advantage at halftime. Spain struggled to deny the deficit right after the break as Brazil stayed at distance. Moreover the Latin American side cleared off to an 11-point buffer. Spaniards refused to surrender as Ana Montanana (186-F-80, college: George Washington) hit three-pointer to make it 66:67 with just 16 seconds left in the final frame. Iziane Castro (183-G/F-82) was deadly from the charity stripe to give Brazil a 69:66 cushion but Amaya Valdemoro cut it back to one. Spain had to foul and Claudia Das Neves sealed the winning outcome from charity stripe. Ana Montanana had a chance to force overtime but her buzzer-beater rimmed out. Iziane Castro led the winners with 18 points. Micaela Jacintho (180-F-79) provided 17 points, while Kelly Santos (192-C-79) had 10 for Brazil. Ana Montanana topscored with 20 points and 6 boards for Spain. Laia Palau (178-G/F-79) had 17 points in defeat. The teams were well matched on the boards pulling down 33 boards apiece. Brazil converted 43% from the field, while holding the home side to 37%.

Brazil: Iziane Castro 18, Micaela Jacintho 17, Kelly Santos 10
Spain: Ana Montanana 20, Laia Palau 17

Stats Leaders - LF2 - B -by Sahereh
LF2 B Stats Leaders
Points Per Game
1 Valentin, Tener. 20.5
2 Hutcheson, Eivis. 19.9
3 Navarro, Biurra. 18.5
4 Nwagbo, Canaria 17.9
5 Traore, Jovent. 17.6
Rebounds Per Game
1 NNavarro, Biurra. 13.2
2 Nwagbo, Canaria 13.1
3 Hutcheson, Eivis. 12.4
4 Campos, Girona 10.2
5 Beachem, Navarra 9.9
Assists Per Game
1 Tena, Eivissa 3.8
2 Caparros, Girona 3.0
3 Delgado, Biurra. 2.9
4 Villaesc., Jovent. 2.6
5 Jimenez, Lima 2.5
Steals Per Game
1 Smith, Jovent. 3.5
2 Valentine, Tener. 2.5
3 Fernandez, Palm 2.1
Blocks Per Game
1 Campos, Girona 1.5
2 Palaimaite, Jovent. 1.2
3 Cesnavic., Tener. 1.15
2FGP
1 Campos, Girona 63.0
2 Soller, Estrusal 56.9
3 Castan, Casa. 56.1
3FGP
1 Lopez, Vinaroz 70.0
2 Morillo, Mariana 57.0
3 Sinol, Girona 50.0
Free Throws
1 Traore, Mariana 93.0
2 Vinuela, Estrusal 91.0
3 Valentin, Tener. 91.0


Stats Leaders - LFB
Liga Femenina Stats Leaders
Points Per Game
1 Hodges, Caja 20.2
2 Willingh., Olesa 18.8
3 Christon, Irun 17.5
4 Morales, EBE 15.8
5 Tuukkanen, Taru 15.6
Rebounds Per Game
1 Willingham, Olesa 11.0
2 Lyttle, EBE 10.0
3 Wyckoff Caja 8.9
4 Da Silva, Extrem. 8.19
5 Tamane, Irun 8.1
Assists Per Game
1 Morales, EBE 5.0
2 Ciocan, Burgos 4.3
3 Santos, Cadi 3.4
4 Nunez, Extrem. 3.3
5 Palau Valencia 3.1
Steals Per Game
1 Lyttle, EBE 2.9
2 Musovic, Olesa 2.5
3 Lebrato, Burgos 2.2
Blocks Per Game
1 Lyttle, EBE 1.2
2 Tamane, Irun 1.2
2FGP
1 Matic, Perfume. 59.9
2 Antibe, Rivas 59.8
3 Douglas, Valencia 58.9
3FGP
1 Rasmus., EBE 50.0
2 Maltsi, Valencia 48.6
3 Erceg, Zaragoza 47.9
Free Throws
1 Feaster, S.Jose 92.4
2 Brown, Extrug. 89.9
3 Tornikidou, Valen. 89.0


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TURKEY - Women

Isil Alben sign with GS for 2 more years -by Iva Ivanova
The one of succesful player for Galatasaray last season Isil Alben (170-G-86)sighned again with team. According to information, published on Turkbasket.com, her contract extended for 2 more years. Isil Alben was played Botas and IUSBK. She have a very succesfull season with Galatasaray. She reached silver medal in TBBL 2007/08 season. She was selected in 3 categories: Most Improved Player of the Year-08, Domestic Player of the Year -08 and Defensive Player of the Year -08. Isil Alben is born Feb.22, 1986 in Eminonu, Turkey. She is national player.

Ex-Botasspor Naile Ivegin sign with Besiktas -by Iva Ivanova
Player Naile Ivegin (186-F/C-85) signes with Besiktas. She stay long term contract with them for 2 years, according to her management.

Naile Ivegin plays in Botasspor and she is also National Team player.

Naile Ivegin was born on 29 May 1985 in Adana. She started school in Adana and finished her whole education there as well.

'I started basketball with the try-outs made at the Omer Haluk Ozucak Elementary School at the 4th grade. I also started my career at Botas Spor along with these try-outs', explain player Naile Ivegin.

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WNBA - Women

Connecticut hands Minnesota first home loss -by Eurobasket News
Minnesota - Connecticut 66:75

The Connecticut Sun remained the top team in the league after they sent Minnesota to 6-2 record beating them away from home. Asjha Jones (6'2''-F-80, college: Connecticut) led the charge with 20 points as the Sun improved to 8-1 record. Lindsay Whalen (5'8''-G-82, college: Minnesota) had some nice moments in the area as she returned to her home state to come up with a sizzling performance. The University of Minnesota graduate knocked down 14 points, grabbed 8 boards and dished out 6 assists to help the Sun handle the Lynx. Barbara Turner (6'0''-G/F-84, agency: Merit Sports, college: Connecticut) nailed 18 points, while Tamika Whitmore (6'2''-C/F-77, college: Memphis) posted 14 points and 12 rebounds for the winners. Candice Wiggins (5'11''-G-87, college: Stanford) responded with 22 points for Minnesota. Seimone Augustus (6'1''-G-84, college: LSU) had 11 points in a losing effort.
The hosts led comfortable by 9 points at halftime following a stunning 23:10 second frame. But the Sun rallied back in the second half and pulled away another confident win in the season.

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