EUROBASKET NEWS REPORT - 6/28/2008

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Men News

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  ABA   


New team and new interesting tournment for the ABA - by Gianni Pascucci

The American Basketball Association announced that an expansion team will begin play in December in Bowling Green, Kentucky. The majority team owner is 24 years old Jason Smith, who is the former CEO of the Memphis Thunder Semi-Pro Football Team (NAFL), former VP of R.B.G. Corporation (his family business), former Youth Pastor of Solid Rock Pentecostal Holiness Church in Memphis, TN where he was born, and currently President of S & A Corporation, and is the youngest ABA team owner. For more information, call Jason at 901 603 7292 or email smithjason@bellsouth.net. The league also announced plans to host a world professional basketball tournament in late June, 2010. According to Joe Newman, ABA CEO, 'The tournament will be modeled after soccer's very successful World Cup with professional basketball teams from around the world qualifying for the final tournament to be held in Atlanta, Georgia. The tournament is being organized by the ABA and representatives from several international organizations that have expressed interest in producing qualifying tournaments around the world with the top 16-32 teams (to be determined) meeting in Atlanta to compete in the finals.' 'There are so many great professional basketball teams around the world,' added Quentin Townsend , ABA President, and owner of the ABA Atlanta Vision. 'This is an opportunity for the best of them to compete in a PRIZE MONEY tournament on a world stage. We've named the tournament the World Basketball Cup. We are now reaching out to teams, leagues and businesspeople from throughout the world to participate. And we would like to see the best teams in Asia, Europe, Africa, South and Central America, Australia and other areas to compete in this prestigious tournament. The website, www.worldbasketballcup.com is now under construction.' For more information, email Joe Newman at conniejoenewman@aol.com or Quentin Townsend at qtownsend@abaisback.com or call 317 844 7502.



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  AUSTRALIA   


Indiana Pacers pick Nathan Jawai in the Draft - by Eurobasket News
The Cairns Taipans power forward Nathan Jawai (207-C-86, college: Midland CC) was drafted by the Indiana Pacers under the 41st overall number yesterday. However he is not expected to stay with the Pacers. As Indiana and Tornto reached an agreement to swap players in blockbuster deal Nathan Jawai can be part of it. The day prior to the Draft it became known that the Indiana Pacers decided to send Jermaine ONeal and their 41st pick to Toronto in exchange for T.J. Ford, Radoslav Nesterovic, Maceo Baston and the 17th Raptors draft pick. So the 17th pick Roy Hibbert will join the Pacers, while Mathan Jawai will head to Canada. Nathan Jawai wrote history as he became the first indigenous Australian to be drafted in the NBA. The 22-year-old forward already played in the USA. He spent one season at the Midland College. There Jawai averaged 11.4 points and 5.8 boards per game. He then left for Australia and played for the Taipans. Nathan Jawai was named the NBL Rookie of the Year last season. He was also trumped the NBL All-Star Game MVP posting 24 points and 12 boards in the event. His average stats in the last season with the Taipans came up to 17.7 points and 9.6 boards per game. Nathan Jawai became the 10th Australian to be drafted to the NBA. However his selection under overall 41st number made him the fifth-highest pick among Aussies in the Draft history.

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  AUSTRIA   


Market news - by Stefan Heinrich
A couple of days ago the Oberwart Gunnes announced that Tomislav Gaspar (200-F-83) and Paul Radakovics (187-G-88) will stay in Oberwart for anothers season. Gaspar started the season pretty good and was most of the times in the Starting 5 but during the Play-Offs he only received a few minutes per game. During 43 games he had 3.6ppg and 1.3rpg. Radakovics is a young talented Guard who scored 2.4ppg in 20 games this season.

Also the UBC St. Polten renewed the contracts with captain Martin Speiser (200-F-83, agency: Court Side) and Andreas Bauch (186-G-85). Speiser had a very good season with 16.3ppg, 6.0rpg, 2.3apg while shooting 42.3 % from 3 point distance. Bauch came off the bench and had 3.2ppg, 1.9rpg and 1.6apg.

Market news - by Stefan Heinrich


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  BELGIUM   


Div 1 Transfer News - by Peter Buyse


Spirou Charleroi has announced the arrival of 2 Croatian players for next season's roster.
From Zadar come teammates Jure Lalic (212-C-86) and Pankracije Barac (196-G-81).

Barac started his career at Botinec Zagreb before moving to KK Zadar where he played the past 4 years.

Has lots of ULEB Cup experience with Zadar. Played this past season in the ULEB cup, the Adriatic league and the Croatian league.

Lalic was signed by Zadar one year prior to Barac, so they have been teammates for the past 4 seasons.

Averged 7.9 ppg and 3.9 rpg in this years Uleb Cup where Branac averaged 5.4 ppg and 2.2 apg.

Barac upped his scoring in the Adriatic league and Croatian league to over 8.0 ppg.

Lalic played for the Croatian U18 and U20 teams.


The team is still looking to sign an American forward since it seems less and less likely that Matt Walsh will be staying.
they are also looking for a young Belgian to fill in for the departing Christophe Beghin who is however still under contract with Charleroi.



VOO Verviers-Pepinster has acquired young Belgian/Russian Center Ioann Iarochevitch (207-C-89).

Ioann played the past season for another Belgian team Liege Basket.



Stats Leaders - Division I
D1 Stats Leaders
Points Per Game
1 Emmett, Liege 23.9
2 Freeman, Gent 18.8
3 Lewis, Leuven 17.8
4 Wilson, Pepinster 17.6
5 Miller, Gent 17.2
6 Perkins, Bree 15.6
7 Gray, MH 15.1
8 Gay, ADG 14.9
9 Lojeski, Aalst 14.6
10 Gonzales, Aalst 14.5
Rebounds Per Game
1 Fisher, Bree 10.8
2 Turek, Gent 10.6
3 Cantrell, Aalst 8.6
4 Pelle, Liege 7.4
5 Ebong, MH 7.1
5 Poole, Aalst 7.1
7 Hodge, Bree 6.6
8 Riddick, Char 6.1
9 Oefugbu, Gent 6.0
10 Ovcina, Oost 6.0
Assists Per Game
1 Perkins, Bree 5.8
2 Bosco, Leuven 3.8
3 Conlan, MH 3.8
4 Van Rossom, Oost 3.2
5 Hamilton, Char 3.1
Steals Per Game
1 Perkins, Bree 3.1
2 Sears, ADG 2.6
3 Bosco, Leuven 2.6
Blocks Per Game
1 Fisher, Bree 2.8
2 Riddick, Char 2.2
3 Turek, Gent 1.4


Liege Transfer News - by Peter Buyse


Liege is working hard at getting its roster filled for next season. They now adding former Aalst center Eric Poole (204-F/C-76, college: Richmond) to their team.
Poole already played for present Liege and former Aalst coach Tom Johnson during the 2006-2007 season.
That year Poole was the leading rebounder in the Belgian league with over 9 rebounds per game.
The past season Eric averaged slightly over 7 rpg.

According to GM Giovanni Bozzi they are looking to use Poole as they did Moss the past season, coming off the bench and going for every rebound.

Wherever he has played in the past Poole has been the leading rebounder on his team.



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  BOSNIA   


Bosnia and Herzegovina National Team 2008 - by Elvir Halilovic
Nemanja Gordic (195-G-88) BUDUCNOST (MNG)
Aleksej Nesovic (189-G-85) OLIMPIAS (GRE)
Vedran Princ (192-G-82) CIBONA (CRO)
Ernest J.R. Bremer (191-G-80) SPARTAK-P. (RUS)
Goran Ikonic (196-G-80) BOSNA ASA BHT (BIH)
Henry Domercant (192-G-80) DYNAMO M. (RUS)
Dino Hodzic (190-G-90) CIBONA (CRO)
Nihad Djedovic (196-G/F-90) BARCELONA (ESP)
Ivan Opacak (202-SG/SF-80) MURCIA (ESP)
Jasmin Hukic (204-SG/SF-79) OLIMPIJA (SLO)
Ante Masic (200-SG/SF-85) ZLATOROG (SLO)
Milan Milosevic (205-F-85) SLOBODA DITA (BIH)
Mujo Tuljkovic (203-F-79) BANK BASKET (POL)
Mirza Teletovic (205-F-85) TAU CERAMICA (ESP)
Kenan Bajramovic (206-F-81) BC KYIV (UKR)
Oliver Stevic (201-F-84) SLASK (POL)
Edin Bavcic (210-PF/C-84) BOSNA ASA BHT (BIH)
Damir Krupalija (205-PF/C-79) DIJON (FRA)
Elmedin Kikanovic (210-C-88) CRVENA ZVEZDA (SRB)
Ermin Jazvin (208-C-80) MAROUSI (GRE)
Dragan Tubak (203-C-87) BORAC CACAK (SRB)
Nedzad Sinanovic (221-C-83) KOELN (GER)

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  CAMEROON   


LUC MBAH A MOUTE have done it - by Gilles Bouwe
Last night our countrymen Luc Richard Mbah a Moute was pick at the 37 th position by the Milwalkee Bucks during the 2008 NBA Draft . LUC is the second cameroonian enrolled in the NBA draft after Boumtje Boumtje in 2001.
All the cameroonian basketball is proud of him and want to tell him good luck .
Luc Richard Mbah a Moute (born 9 September 1986 in Yaounde, Cameroon) is a 6' 8' Cameroonian basketball player who plays for the University of California, Los Angeles (UCLA) Bruins in the Pacific Ten Conference of the NCAA.

Mbah A moute makes it... - by Yann Tientcheu


Mbah A Moute makes it... - by Yann Tientcheu
Cameroon own, Luc Richard Mbah a Moute (200-G/F-88), will carry the national colors at the highest stage of world basket after being drafted by the Milwaukee Bucks
last night. Mbah A Moute was the 37th pick of the 2nd round, and will undoubtedly bring a notable defensive presence to the Milwaukee Bucks'
roster. Mbah A Moute averaged 8.8pts and 6rbds per game his junior year. His offensive capabities can be reached granted he improves his shooting as his
former UCLA coach, Ben Howland, clearly contended after the Cameroon native decided to enter the draft. Mbah A Moute's 2007-2008 season's highlights (among others)
and team high performances such as 21 pts against Davidson (Dec. 8th) and 14pts against high caliber, Texas ( Dec. 2nd), are testimonies of the offensive potential
our young Cameroonian player will certainly develop and put into use in the NBA.
We wish the best of Luck!!!!!

Alfred Aboya talks about his immediate future in hoops - by Cyril Empig

Alfred Aboya is currently at the Rico's Get Better Summer League in San Diego, California. The league is comprise of college players and teams are mostly made up of 5-6 players, so everyone is playing close to 40 minutes per game. With its unique system, this summer league should increase endurance and court experience in every player in attendance here.


Alfred took time out to talk to UCLA Radio about his plans for the summer. Alfred talked about his upcoming plans to play for the Cameroon National Team at the Olympic Qualifying Tournament in Athens, Greece starting on July 14. He is scheduled to leave for France, where the team will having their first workout in preparation for Athens. The teams that Alfred regards as stiff competition in their group are Puerto Rico and Croatia. Cameroon would need to beat these two teams in order to win their group and move on to the playoffs. It is a 12-team tournament, all 12 are vying for the remaining three slots in the Beijing 2008 Olympics. Also in the tournament are Brazil, Canada, Cape Verde, Germany, Greece, Korea, Lebanon, New Zealand and Slovenia. Alfred envisions that he would play power forward since Cameroon already has a 7-footer manning the center position. Alfred also mentioned the possibility of Luc Richard Mbah a Moute joining the team but that it depends on whether Luc's NBA team, the Milwaukee Bucks would let him play. Finally, Alfred speaks of his continuing desire to pursue a Master's degree.

Good luck to Alfred, good luck to the Cameroon National Team in Athens, Greece!
Alfred Aboya (203-F/C-85)

Listen to Alfred's inteview here:

http://www.ricosgetbetterleague.com/wp-content/uploads/2008/06/ucla-radio-live-interview-_-host-kyle-hyman-speaks-with-ucla-senior-power-forward-alfred-aboya-3.mp3



Luc Richard Mbah a Moute is a Buck - by Cyril Empig
Luc Richard Mbah a Moute was chosen by the Milwaukee Bucks with the 37th pick in the second round in yesterday's NBA 2008 Draft.
This does not guarantee that Luc has made the team, which is what players who were selected in the first round were able to get.
But this says that the Bucks are serious enough about Luc that he will be part of the Milwaukee summer league team in a few months. It is incredibly difficult to get invited to play in a team's summer league team. It is one more step you would need to make in order to get closer to joining an NBA team. Luc has achieved this and will hope to impress during these summer leagues, enough that the Bucks sign him up with a contract. From all the chatter surrounding Luc, it looks like NBA folks are seeing him as a defensive stopper, similar to Bruce Bowen of the San Antonio Spurs, who has the unenviable task of shutting down the best scorer on the opposing team. Imagine Luc defending Kobe Bryant or Dwayne Wade. And people think that Luc will be better than Bowen since he is a much longer player. It seems common knowledge that Luc could improve on his offense, but he is primarily seen as providing instant hard-nose defense. Plus, there is enough offensive firepower in the Bucks. Luc joins Richard Jefferson who joined the Bucks from the Nets, All-star Michael Redd, and solid front court players in Charlie Villanueva and Desmond Mason. And finally, the Bucks are now coached by Scott Skiles who came over from the Chicago Bulls.

Congratulations on being drafted, Luc. We wish you all the best and hope you have a successful summer and get signed up before the 2008-09 NBA season starts.

http://www.jsonline.com/story/index.aspx?id=766664

Bucks take standout defender in second round
Mbah a Moute exudes toughness
By TODD ROSIAK
trosiak@journalsentinel.com
Posted: June 26, 2008
St. Francis - The reshaping of the Milwaukee Bucks' frontcourt began Thursday afternoon and wound up carrying on well into the evening before ultimately being capped by the second-round selection of UCLA forward Luc Richard Mbah a Moute.

Mbah a Moute, 6-foot-7, 221-pounder, started 106 of 107 games in three seasons for the Bruins, all of which ended in the Final Four. He averaged 8.7 points and 7.2 rebounds per game over that span, forging a reputation as a top-notch defender and solid rebounder with a developing offensive game.

Hes from a winning program, hes got great length, he can guard two or three different positions, coach Scott Skiles said about Mbah a Moute, who was chosen 37th overall. Hes kind of an improving offensive player, and I think hell still improve, and another high-quality person.

Especially at that pick; thats an important thing to have right there.

Mbah a Moute averaged 8.8 points last season but his rebounding and shooting percentage 6.0 per game and 47.8%, respectively were well off the numbers he had put up as a freshman and sophomore. He did miss six games with a variety of injuries, however, and ultimately chose to forgo his senior season at UCLA despite the dip in his numbers.

Fit exactly, I think, for the rest of things that happened today, general manager John Hammond said. Energy, toughness, defender, role player. Kind of a guy that will do whatever it takes to win. Rock-solid person.

Feel good about having him here. You never know, but sometimes guys like that find a way to get on the court and play. Not saying that hes going to play, but you never know.

Mbah a Moute joins Richard Jefferson, for whom the Bucks traded Yi Jianlian and Bobby Simmons earlier in the day, and West Virginias Joe Alexander, whom the Bucks drafted in the first round with the eighth overall pick.

All three figure to bring versatility to a frontcourt that returns only two other proven commodities at the forward spot in Charlie Villanueva and Desmond Mason.

Obviously right now as we stand we traded away a power forward for a prototypical 3-man, Skiles said. Hopefully as the summer goes on well address some of our other issues, and well try to do that. But were going to need energy guys to get on the glass.

The games become so versatile . . . so to have guys you feel like can help you guard multiple positions, it gets you out of some mismatch situations that you may not have been able to deal with.

Mbah a Moute burst onto the scene as a freshman, averaging 9.1 points and 8.2 rebounds per game in helping lead the Bruins to the NCAA title game, which they lost to the Florida Gators.

Mbah a Moute averaged 8.2 points and a team-best 7.4 rebounds as a sophomore, and ranked third in the Pacific 10 in steals at 1.7.

He posted 19 double-doubles in his three years at UCLA and ranks 15th on the schools all-time rebounding list with 775.

Mbah a Moute brings an interesting background with him to Milwaukee as well. A global studies major, Mbah a Moute is a prince in his village of Bia Messe in his native Cameroon. His father, Camille Moute a Bidias, is the king of his province in Yaounde, Cameroon.

From the June 27, 2008 editions of the Milwaukee Journal Sentinel
Luc Richard Mbah a Moute (200-G/F-88)

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  CAPE VERDE   


National Senior Mens' Preparation - by Pedro Gomes

Cape Verdes senior mens basketball pre-selection began preparations last week, June 16, for the qualification
tournament for the 2008 Olympic Games. Among those called upon to play for the national basketball team are six
important reinforcements, among them Peter Cipriano (206-F-83, college: Southern), a 2.06-meter, 130-kilogram

giant who plays in Finland's Professional Basketball League, Josh Gomes (190-G-83, college: E.Illinois), who plays

in Israel, and Jeff Xavier (185-G-85, college: Manhattan), who plays college basketball for the University of Providence

in the United States.

Marito (Desportivo, Cabinda, Angola), Rodrigo Mascarenhas and Marques Houtman (1 de Agosto, Angola), Vini and
Tony Barros (USA) and Abdulay Faty (Desportivo, Hula, Angola) are the returners from the lineup that won Cape
Verde the bronze medal in Afrobasket 2007 in Angola.

Ivan Almeida (from Stonehill College) and Fidel, who plays in Portugal, are two new promises who have just
joined the national basketball selection. Mrio Jorge will not be present, as the date coincides with his wedding.

The coaching team also has a number of new faces: Kula, the only level III coach working in Cape
Verde. And Rico, who was Emanuel Trovoadas assistan during Afrobasket 2007 in Angola.

Meanwhile, the Cape Verdean Basketball Federation continues to look for financing for Cape Verde to participate
in the qualification tournament, which will take place in Athens, Greece in July. So far, the Federation has
managed to raise 16 million of the 30 million escudos in its budget.



Santiago South Semifinals - by Pedro Gomes
Seven Stars beat Predio CVT 78 to 64 in the second game of the much awaited play off semi-finals of the Santiago South Regional Championship of Basketball.

First the protest from Predio CVT, which took too long to be decided by the Federation, and second the referees going on strike, requesting their delayed payment. In the end, and agreement was reached with the direction of the Association of Basketball for Santiago South, and the games went on.

The game was somewhat balanced in the first period, with Seven Stars taking a slight advantage of 4 points, (18-14), but going into the break the balance continued, and at halftime both teams were tied at 30 points. In the third period, Seven clearly the much better team, pulling away from Predio CVT, and finishing the period with a 15 points lead (57-42). The fourth and final period, saw Seven managing their lead and take the victory, 78 to 64.

The next game, and final game of the semi-finals, is scheduled for next Wednesday. The series is now tied 1 a piece. Predio CVT taking the first game, thanks to the Federations decion to penalize Seven with a forfeit, for using and illegal player.

The winner of the next game on Wednesday will play ABC, they have been waiting for more than a month for the other finalist of the Santiago South Regional Championship of Basketball.

Cape Verde National Team 2008 - by Pedro Gomes
#s#
#e#6


Xavier


Mascarenhas


Houtman


Correia


Lima

Jeff Xavier (185-G-85) of Providence College (USA)
Rodrigo Mascarenhas (197-F-80) of Desportivo 1. De Agosto Luanda (ANG)
Marques Houtman (190-G-79) of Desportivo 1. De Agosto Luanda (ANG)
Mario Correia (189-G-78) of Promade Cabinda (ANG)
Aldevino Lima (203-C-86) of Northeastern University (USA)
Tony Barros (193-F-84) of University of Massachusetts Boston (USA)
Odair Sanches (180-G-82) of Seven Stars
Josh Gomes (190-G-83) of Baitar Benyamina (ISR)
Peter Cipriano (206-F-83) of Kouvot Kouvola (FIN)
Avery Oliver (193-F-83) of TV Hohenlimburg (GER)
Ivan Almeida (197-F-89) of Mohawk Valley CC (USA)
Abdulay Faty (205-C-85) of Desportivo da Huila (ANG)

Head Coach: Eric Silva



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  CONGO-BRAZAVILLE   


Serge Ibaka joins Sonics - by Eurobasket News
Last night Serge Ibaka (208-C/F-89) joined Seattle SuperSonics to play in NBA. It was great news both for the player and the country.
Last season Serge Ibaka spent in C.B. LHospitalet - Spain LEB Gold averaging 11.3 per game for the team. In 26 games played he made 214 rebounds, 79 blocks, 15 steals and 6 assists. The stats are much better with those he spent in DKV Joventut in 2006.
Serge Ibaka grew up playing in his native Congo with the Avenir du Rail club before coming over to Europe. He is a great member of the Congolese National Team. In 2006 U18 African Championships that was held in Durban, South Africa he was named MVP.
It will be a pleasure to see another African player in NBA and of course the one from Congo. Last year Seattle SuperSonics finished the regular season with 20-62 record that was the last spot in Northwest Div. of Western Conference.
Meanwhile The Chicago Bulls drafted Derrick Rose from Memphis as #1 pick just hours ago. Michael Beasley of Kansas State University was selected as the second pick by the Miami Heat. The Minnesota Timberwolves opted for O.J. Mayo of University of Southern California but traded him immediately. That was the Draft night full of interesting choices and trades.

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  CROATIA   


Croatian U18 Team plays in France - by Eurobasket News
Croatian U18 National Team travelled to France to take part in the international Douai tournament. Croatian team tipped off their campaign against the USA counterparts. Croatia controlled the tempo throughout the action and led comfortably in the first half. The USA side cut the deficit after the long break but Europeans managed to withhold the attempt and grabbed an 89:77 victory at the end. Toni Prostran (190-G-91) topscored with 29 points for Croatia. Sven Smajlagic (190-G-90) had 28 points, 8 boards and 4 assists in a win.
Yesterday Croatian U22 Team faced Lithuania. Lithuanian youngsters got to a better start as they accumulated a 24:15 lead after ten minutes of action. But Croatia gradually took over and clipped the difference to a single point after three quarters of action. Croatia battled back and forced overtime in the intriguing closing seconds. But Lithuanian U18 Team proved stronger in the overtime and pulled away with an 86:77 win. Donatas Motiejunas (214-C-90) led the winners with 19 points and 10 boards. Tautvydas Slezas (207-C-90) came up with 12 points and 10 rebounds for Lithuania. Leon Radosevic (207-F/C-90) poured in 22 points for Croatia. Croatian U18 Team will now have to beat Israel today to try to reach the semis.
Croatia is getting fit for the upcoming European championship. The event is due to be held in Greece at the end of July. Croatia got into preliminary Group C together with Turkey, Latvia and Bulgaria. They tip off their campaign versus Latvia on July 25.

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  EUROBASKET SUMMER LEAGUE   


Berlin beats Rome by 35 points in Day One - by Eurobasket

Elzie Bibbs of Paris was the top scorer of Day One with lost game against Madrid


Day One Box scores:

Game 1: Rome - Berlin 43-78
ROME: Keith Hampton 3pts, Jessan Gray 5pts, Jerrah Young 8pts, Tyler Moretto 4pts, Alex Davenport 8pts, Chip Sodermann 6pts, Edward James 2pts, Vangelo Smith 4pts, Irvin Yomans 3pts, Ben Hebl 0
BERLIN: Diego Agular 2pts, Lantrice Green (191-G-83, agency: CGL Sports, college: Virginia Union) 10pts, Florentino Valencia (196-F-85, agency: Paris Global Sports, college: Toledo) 16pts, Terry Ayers 4pts, Joel Haviland 7pts, Danny Brown 2pts, Jantee Willhite 5pts, Matt Salley 8pts, David Johnson 11pts, Ryan Edwards 12pts


Game 2: London - Athens 92-62
London: Ronnie Davis 6pts, 3rbs, Lenard Houston 14pts+3rbs+3ast, Emmanuel Little 13pts+1rbs+1asts, Marcus King-Stockton 5pts+8rbs, Kyle Lamonte 11pts+1rbs+7asts, Jermaine Dailey 10pts+3rbs, Dane Cruz 7pts+1rbs, Andre Muse 13pts+2rbs, Corley Lee 9pts+3rbs, Carl Marshall 8pts+1rbs+6asts
Athens: Lawrence Brooks 6pts+3rbs, Tyler Sickmeyer 2pts, Stephen Flucker 10pts+6rbs+3asts, John Little 2pts+2rbs+4asts, Phillip Gilbert 10pts+2rbs+3assists, Jordan Lear 10pts+8rbs, Rodrick Smith 0pts, Mike Lytle 2pts+4rbs+5ast, Jeffrey Mayi 3pts+5rbs+2ast, Stanley Thomas (189-G-80) 19pts+6rbs+4ast


Game 3: Madrid - Paris 114-102
Madrid: Michael Rembert 10pts+7rbs, Matt Martin 6pts+1rbs+4ast, JJ Tauai 9pts+6rbs+2ast, Dshon Cannon 10pts+1rbs+2ast, Eric Vierneisel (201-F-85, college: California) 23pts+10rbs, Jangki Che 2pts+4ast, Maurice Gibbs 8pts+3rbs+3ast, Justin Johnson 15pts+3rbs, Daniel Bandy (178-G-84, college: Coll.of the Ozarks) 22pts+3rbs+5ast, Brian Filyes 4pts+8rbs
Paris: Brent Cowles 4pts+1rbs, Elzie Bibbs (193-G/F-82, agency: Champion Sports Management, college: Ferris St.) 30pts+10rbs+3ast, Peter Gecelovsky 2pts+3rbs, Corey Niles 6pts+1rbs, Courtney Bradley 2pts+2rbs, Jermel Nelson 3pts+2rbs, Ryosuke Nozawa 0pts, Jontee Willhite 17pts+12rbs+3ast, Mark Stovall (197-F-84, agency: Strategic Sports, college: McKendree) 23pts+9rbs+2ast, Olalekan Esho 16pts+1rbs


Game 4: Warsaw - Amsterdam 131-103
Warsaw: Jimmy Miles 6pts+7rbs, Maurice Carter (191-G-74, college: Brandon) 20pts+1reb, Marcus Arnold 14pts+6rbs+2ast, Giani Bearden 6pts+1rbs+2ast, Jason Warren (203-F-83, college: Missouri Western) 28pts+10rbs, Demarius Bolds (191-G-83, college: Missouri Western) 20pts+3ast, Reo Logan 3pts+3rbs+1ast, Brandon Watkins 3pts+3rbs+1ast, KC Love 15pts+3rbs+2ast, Perrick Robinson 16pts+6rbs+4ast
Amsterdam: John Griffin 16pts+2rbs+5ast, Latrice Green 2pts, Kevin Chester 6pts+5rbs, Eugene Seals (199-F-82, college: Miami, OH) 24pts+5rbs+2ast, Fred Oguns 6pts+1rb, David Jordan 1pts, Jimmy Williams (196-F-86, college: Alders.-Broad.) 21pts+5rbs, Cortez Forte 18+3rbs



Eurobasket Summer League starts in Chicago - by Eurobasket

The first edition of the Eurobasket Summer League (ESL) took place in Chicago at the famous Attack Athletics www.attackathletics.com facility where some of the famous NBA players train daily during the summer. The ESL in Chicago feature 80 players across the United States and some international players looking to advance the careers in the European market.
In the first game Rome destroyed Berlin 78-43 and Florentino Valencia led a balance attack with 16 points.
The second game featured a very talented London team led by Leonard Houston (191-G-85, college: Drake), Emmanuel Little (196-F-85, college: N.Dakota) and Jermaine Dailey (201-F-86, college: Ill.-Chicago) beating Athens 96-62.


Jermaine Dailey had a couple of thuderous dunks that shock the crowd of Chicago fans. Stan Thomas led Athens with 16 points but was overwhelmed the power of London.
Madrid and Paris played in the third game as they gained a 114-102 victory.
Madrid was impressive as Daniel Bandy (178-G-84, college: Coll.of the Ozarks) and Eric Vierneisel (201-F-85, college: California) put on a show by scoring 23 and 22 points a piece. Dainiel Bandy scored on an array of sweet drive to the baskets finishing with either hand.
Eric Vierneisel shot the ball extremely well while Elize Bibbs led Paris with 30 points and 10 rebounds.

The final game of the night featured a strong Warsaw team that bounced the Amsterdam team by the score of 131-103. Demarius Bolds (191-G-83, college: Missouri Western), Jasson Warren and Maurice Carter scored 20, 28 and 20 a piece. Demarius Bold stood out with some nice athletic plays and a spetacular dunk. Amsterdam plated a strong game led by John Griffin's shooting, Eugene Seals had 24 points and Jimmie Williams scored 21 points.



Standings
Eurobasket S.League Standings
 1. Berlin 1-0 
 2. London 1-0 
 3. Madrid 1-0 
 4. Warsaw 1-0 
 5. Amsterdam 0-1 
 6. Athens 0-1 
 7. Paris 0-1 
 8. Rome 0-1 


*****************************************************
  EUROPEAN CHAMPIONSHIPS U16   


European Championship Division C. Day 1 - by Eurobasket News
Moldova U16 - Andorra U16 71:61
Moldovan U16 National team got to a winning start of the European championship in Division C campaign. The event tipped off in Gibraltar and saw eight teams taking part. Moldova got into preliminary Pool A together with Andorra, Gibraltar and San Marino. Another group comprised Malta, Scotland, Monaco and Wales. Moldova met with Andorra in the starting game. Andorra began the game aggressively as Palleja and Casellas drained back-to-back three-pointers to lift the team in front. Cojuhari nailed 5 points to keep Moldova in visibility. Soon Mescoi scored 8 straight points for Moldovan team and lead them ahead 15:13. Calvis and Cerda capped the first frame with 4 points and Andorra claimed a 17:15 advantage after the first quarter. Moldova struck back early in the second quarter as they surged ahead through 4 consecutive points from Melniciuc. The lead changed hands for several times before Kaigodorov sealed the first half outcome at 28:23 for Moldova. Modlovan team stretched the gap to 10 points heading into the fourth term. Andorra failed to cut the deficit in the final minutes and suffered the first loss at the competition. Mescoi nailed 20 points and grabbed 9 boards to lead Moldova. Cojuhari added 19 points and 8 caroms, while Carali had 14 points and 14 boards in a winning case. Casellas answered with 13 points and 8 boards for Andorra Juniors. Palleja contributed 12 points in a loss. Moldova will face San Marino, while Andorra will take on Gibraltar tomorrow.

Moldova U16: Serghei Mescoi 20+9 boards, Nicolai Cojuhari 19, Vladimir Carali 14+14 boards
Andorra U16: Ricard Casellas 13, Alexandre Palleja 12


Wales U16 - Malta U16 78:20
Welsh U16 National Team got to a flying start of their European Championship in Division C campaign. They held off Maltese counterparts for the first win at the tournament. The game turned into a one-sided traffic with Welsh thumping their opponents. The teams got to a slow start of the game with Trotman and Hinchliffe giving Wales a 10:3 lead at the end of the starting period. Wales went on a 12:0 run in the second quarter to clear off to a 25:7 mark. Coleman capped the first half with 3 points to give Welsh side a 30:8 lead at the interval. Adams and Owen teamed up for 10 unanswered points late in the third stanza as Wales accumulated a 48:10 advantage. Wales kept on piling point untamed in the final minutes. They breezed to an easy victory at the end toppling the ladder in preliminary Group B. Hinchlife secured 18 points and 15 boards for Wales. Kilmartin added 10 points for the winners. Bugeja led Malta with 7 points in defeat. Wales had an outstanding dominance in all game components. They outrebounded their opponents 64:32 and forced those to unbelievable 52 turnovers. Maltese team also shot only 17% from the field. Wales answered with 38% accuracy from the field. Malta will try to rebound against Monaco today. Wales takes on Scotland today.

Wales U16: Michael Hinchlife 18+15 boards, Alex Kilmartin 10
Malta U16: David Bugeja 7


Scotland U16 - Monaco U16 83:29
Scottish U16 National Team celebrated the initial victory at the European Championship in Division C in Gibraltar. They dispatched Monaco Juniors yesterday and climbed on top of Group B together with Wales. Buchan scored 4 points and Scotland jumped to a 10:0 lead at the start of the game. Rosenal and Sprile cut the deficit but just to see Scottish team went on a 13:0 run to maintain a 25:8 advantage at the first intermission. Scotland opened the second quarter with an 11:0 rally to leave Monaco far behind. Scotland cruised later on finalizing a stunning win at the end. Alasdair Fraser knocked down 26 points for Scotland. Buchan added 15 points for the winners. Rosenal answered with 10 points for Monaco. Mereto had 8 points and 5 boards in a losing effort. Scottish U16 Team outrebounded their counterparts 42:25. Scotland also forced Monaco to 36 turnovers and limited them to 27% accuracy from the field. Scotland converted 54% of field goals and committed only 13 turnovers down the stretch. Scottish team will next face Wales. Monaco will look for the first win against Malta later tonight. Two teams will advance to the semifinal stage from the group.

Scotland U16: Alasdair Fraser 26, Cameron Buchan 15
Monaco U16: Robert Rosenal 10, Alberto Mereto 8


Gibraltar U16 San Marino U16 65:27
Gibraltar U16: Jamie Sercombe 14, Nicholas Gracia 12+11 boards, Dale Moreno 12
San Marino U16: Andrea Carlini 6

*****************************************************
  FRANCE   


Bobcats and Rockets get rich with French players - by Eurobasket News
First round became lucky for French players in NBA First Round Draft. Alexis Ajinca (215-C-88) and Nicolas Batum (201-F-88) were chosen by Charlotte Bobcats and Houston Rockets respectively and expect their help in the next season.
Portland continued their busy night trading Darrell Arthur of University of Kansas and Joey Dorsey for the right to French swingman Nicolas Batum. Darrell Arthur however did not stay with the Rockets for long. He was sent to Memphis for the rights to Syracuse Donte Green and future second-round pick.
Nicolas Batum has grown up playing for Le Mans in his native France and made his French ProA League debut during the 2005-06 season. He averaged 12.2 points, 5.1 rebounds and 3.6 assists in the French ProA League regular season. He averaged 8.5 points, 3.5 rebounds and 2.7 assists in Euroleague season.
Alexis Ajinca grew up playing in France as an amateur at Centre Federal in the French NM1 League before making his professional debut in 2006-07. In his first season of extensive action, was averaging 5.0 points and 3.1 rebounds in the French ProA league regular season.
Meanwhile Chicago Bulls drafted Derrick Rose from Memphis as #1 pick just hours ago. Michael Beasley of Kansas State University was selected as the second pick by the Miami Heat. The Minnesota Timberwolves opted for O.J. Mayo of University of Southern California but traded him immediately. That was the Draft night full of interesting choices and trades.

Stats Leaders - ProA
Pro A Stats Leaders
Points Per Game
1 Colson, Hyeres 21.4
2 Graves, Orthez 20.4
3 Salyers, Roanne 19.7
4 Cox, Havre 18.8
5 Skinn, Clermont 16.5
Rebounds Per Game
1 Masingue, Hyeres 10.5
2 Issa, Vichy 8.8
3 Krupalija, Dijon 8.2
4 Williams, Hyeres 7.7
5 Nsonwu, ASVEL 7.6
Assists Per Game
1 Colson Hyeres 8.3
2 Sciarra, Dijon 8.1
3 Stanic, Orthez 7.4
4 Thompson, Havre 6.8
5 Mitchell, Chalon 5.3
Steals Per Game
1 Dobbins, Cholet 2.5
2 Foster, Levallois 2.4
3 Rush, Roanne 2.1
Blocks Per Game
1 Issa, Vichy 1.7
2 Benson, Dijon 1.7
3 Simon, Dijon 1.6
2FGP
1 Akindele, Orthez 66.1
2 Ford, Chalon 64.1
3 Slaughter, Gravel, 63.2
3FGP
1 Nichols, Hyeres 46.2
2 Perincic Hyeres 45.1
3 Jeanneau, ASVEL 44.6
Free Throws
1 Colson, Hyeres 91.5
2 Dewar, Orleans 88.9
3 De Colo, Cholet 86.0


Stats Leaders - ProB
Pro B Stats Leaders
Points Per Game
1 Freeman, Nantes 19.8
2 Bradford, Reims 18.2
3 Mulligan, Chalons 17.5
4 Tutt, Nantes 16.7
5 Knight, Portel 16.3
Rebounds Per Game
1 Badiane, Vallier 10.6
2 Freeman, Nantes 9.9
3 McClark, Aix 9.2
4 Almonte, Limoges 8.9
5 Guillard, Poitiers 8.1
Assists Per Game
1 Reid, Bourg 8.3
2 Blanks, Aix 6.0
3 Swift, Quimper 5.3
4 Moncade, Rouen 5.1
5 Boire, Portel 5.0
Steals Per Game
1 Bradford, Reims 2.4
2 Knight, Portel 2.3
3 Stanford, Chalons 2.1
Blocks Per Game
1 Gay, Brest 1.8
2 Ibekwe, Besancon 1.6
3 Pearson, Nantes 1.5
2FGP
1 Almonte, Limoges 65.7
2 Lalugba, Bourg 64.8
3 Passave, Etienne 63.7
3FGP
1 Gosa, Quentin 45.9
2 Buscaglia, Etienne 43.0
3 Rivers, Nanterre 43.0
Free Throws
1 Boissie, Nantes 87.2
2 Reid, Bourg 86.7
3 Moncade, Rouen 86.2


*****************************************************
  GABON   


WHO will BE CHAMPION OF THE GABON THIS SEASON 2008? - by Tim Ndjiki
WHO will BE CHAMPION OF THE GABON THIS SEASON 2008?
The meeting of this Saturday, MANGA BASKET (with 24 points and 13 matches played) against STADE MANDJI (with 23 points and the same number of meetings), will determine the champion of Gabon sporty season 2008.
All the federal office to the head of which lady Sylvie KOTHA, chairwoman of the Basketball Federation Gabonese (FAGABAB), will make the displacement of MOANDA.
SOMO B that beat AOBB past Wednesday on the thin score of 48 to 47, SOMO B occupy the head of the ordering provisionally with 25 points and 14 matches. We will come back there.

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


99ers sign Bjoern Schoo - by Moritz Korff
The Koeln 99ers (1. Bundesliga) acquired Bjoern Schoo (213-F/C-81, agency: Court Side, college: Northern St.) for the 2008-09 season. The German post-player receives a contract for one year. 26-year-old Schoo played college-basketball at Northern State University (NCAA2) and attended the training-camp of the German Men's National Team in 2006. Schoo played for the Den Helder Seals in Holland in this past season (4.5ppg, 3.5rpg) and joined the Kaiserslautern Braves in February. In 10 appearances on the Kaiserslautern-team he averaged 4.0 points and 2.4 rebounds per contest.

Zack Whiting replaces John Goldsberry - by Manuel Schust
Artland Dragons found a replacement for John Goldsberry (191-G-82, agency: Pro One Sports, college: NC-Wilmington) who left the team to follow Chris Fleming to Bamberg and signed Point Guard Zack Whiting (193-G-84, college: Chaminade).
Whiting, who led the german league in assists last year with 4.6 per game, signed a two-year deal with the team from Quakenbrueck.

The 24 year-old american played his first pro season in Leverkusen last season and averaged 7.5 points, 3.3 rebounds, 4.5assists and 1.3 steals per game.
During his college years with Chaminade, he got the nickname 'Mr. Dribble-Double'. And last season in Germany he proved that he really deserved that name, becoming the only player to record a triple double. Against Giessen Whiting produced 13 points, grabbed 10 rebounds und dished out 10 assists. Giessens former head coach Thorsten Leibenath is his new coach in Quakenbrueck now!

Adam Chubb joins Alba Berlin! - by Manuel Schust
Reigning champion Alba Berlin announced today its first signing for the upcoming season. American center Adam Chubb (207-F/C-81, college: Pennsylvania), who spent last season with Artland Dragons, joins Alba.
26-year-old Chubb, who was named Eurobasket.com All-German Bundesliga Center of the Year 2008, averaged 13.6 points and 4.6 rebounds in the german league. He also played Uleb Cup with Artland and produced 14.7points and 5.2 rebounds in 13 games.

After his college years at University of Pennsylvania, Chubb joined the korean league to play with Ulsan Phoebus. The following year Chubb joined BBL and signed with Giessen 46ers. In 06/07 Chubb established himself as one of the finest centers in Germany after his very impressive season with Eisbaeren Bremerhaven. After his first experiences in Uleb Cup, Chubb will play Euroleague next season with Alba Berlin.

Jan Lipke remains with Bremerhaven - by Manuel Schust
German A2 national player Jan Lipke (193-G-83, agency: Court Side) signed a contract extension with Eisbaeren Bremerhaven. The 24-year old will remain one more year with the team from northern Germany.

Lipke had a decent season as a role player and energizer, averaging 4.6 points and 1.1 rebound per game. Especially his play-off performance against Alba Berlin was impressive: Lipke managed to produce 9 points and 2 rebounds in this series.
After 4 games for Oldenburg in 2000/01 Lipke joined Braunschweig's basketball programm for five years. Yearning fo more playing time, he decided to join the belgian league and played with Passe Partout Basket Groot Leuven. Last season he came back to Germany and had a promising year with Bremerhaven.

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


Final decision for the participants till July 15th - by George Manousidis

BIBL`s Sports Director Mr. Shay Shtriks commented the current situation with the clubs, which are going to participate in the first season of the international tournament.

'Yes, Strumica has problems with their two major sponsors.They contacted me personally. I spoke with Mr. Panagiotis Karapiperis and he promised to me, that up untill Jul 10th he`ll have financial solution. I told him that, because I respect him I believe, that Strumica is the right team for us. We can wait until 15.07 to see what is going to be the result. Meanwhile the Federation of F.Y.R. of Macedonia contacted me and offered other option. I told them that I`m not interested now for another option and I like to wait and see if and when Strumica will have the possibility. If not, we`ll take decision. It`s not obvious that if Strumica is out we`ll put in other team from F.Y.R. of Macedonia. Maybe we`ll take other team, even from Bulgaria. So, if Strumica is out it`s not sure that F.Y.R. of Macedonia will have another team. Any other rumor that Strumica is out from the Balkan league, it`s not true', said Shay Shtriks.

Regarding the Greek teams Mr. Shtriks added: 'Yesterday I had a meeting there and people there are so busy with the Olympic games. What we know is that Olimpia Larissa requested for wild card in FIBA Cup and probably they will go there. PAOK is still in the picture, but this Friday there`s going to be a new management in the club. The team of AEL Larissa is possible option too. I informed the Greek federation, that we are waiting for them only and the deadline will be July 15. The Balkan league can survive without a Greek team. It`ll be more interesting, if we have a Greek team, but we have other options as well. Again - I prefer to have the Greek teams inside and I`m on the way now from Thessaloniki back to Sofia and they already called me from Thessaloniki that PAOK probably will like to meet me again next week. Now I`ll make a direct contact with the club. The people from the Greek federation asked me to do it. They`ll receive tomorrow official letter from the Balkan league, that they have time until July 15 and this letter will go to FIBA-Europe as well, because Mr. Vassilakopoulos is interested two teams from Greece to be inside. I like to give this chance, but we can`t wait more than July 15.'


From web site of BIBL



Utah Jazz selects Koufos with 23rd pick of 2008 NBA Draft - by Chris Mammides

The American born Greek center Kostas Koufos (213-F/C-89) got the highest ever! Pick (by Greek player) and drafted by Jazz where he will begin his NBA career. Kostas, a member of the Hellenic National team U18 and winner of the silver medal last summer was called by the National Head Coach of Greece, Panagiotis Giannakis for the Pre-Olympic tournament which will be held at the end of July in Athens, Greece.
Kostas Koufos, became the fourth Ohio State freshman to be selected in the opening round of the annual National Basketball Association Draft in the last two seasons



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


Sat-Cybertech ends Torneo de Apertura Undefeated - by Victor Padilla
With a convincing 84-70 win over Leones de Marte, Sat-Cybertech concluded the round-robin phase of Torneo de Apertura as the only undefeated team and handed the 2007 Liga Metro Champions their first loss of the year. Sat-Cybertech showcased once more the same good momentum and performance that they have shown over the past few months. After a slow start from both teams in the first quarter, Sat-Cybertech strongly demonstrated effective team play over a confused Leones de Marte, and obtained a comfortable 20 pt lead by half time that practically wrote the final story of the game. With four players over 10 points (Oscar Salguero 21, Enrique Samayoa 19, Thomas Gillespie 13 and Victor Padilla 11), the undefeated Sat-Cybertech imposed their offensive play to conclude their participation with a sweet triumph over the favorite champs. Now, with Liga Metro's recent reappointment of its authorities, it is yet to be seen what calendar, tournament format, and structural changes will follow in the coming months.

*****************************************************
  HOLLAND   


Upstairs Weert adds Marcus Jackson - by Fred Roggen
Upstairs Weert announced the signing of Marcus Jackson (202-F-82, agency: Court Side, college: Marquette), a player that will surely strengthened up the frontcourt of Upstairs Weert. Jackson signed a contract for one season.
Jackson played for the Swedish Plannja Lulea the past season but a serious injury did not allow him to play for the whole year, he played just five games and avaraged 15,2ppg, 11.6rpg. In the past Jackson played for German team of Phoenix Hagen and Team Componenta Karkkila from Finland.

Brandon Griffin from EiffelTowers to WestBrabant Giants - by Fred Roggen
The 26-year-old PF/C agreed to terms with the team of Coach Erik Braal, as announced today. Brandon Griffin (203-F-82, agency: R.H.Consultancy, college: SE Missouri St.) went from EiffelTowers Den Bosch to the WestBrabant Giants and signed a contract for one season.
Griffin came halfway the 2007/08 season of the bankrupt Omniworld Almere ( av. 18ppg. and 13 rpg) to Den Bosch and played 26 Eredivisiegames for the EiffelTowers, averaged 3.7 points and 4 rebounds in this past season.

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


Lajos Meszaros: head coach of our NT again - by Tamas Deri
The Hungarian Basketball Federation just published that Lajos Meszaros will replace Stojan Ivkovic on the bench of our NT. The serbian coach of Pecs wanted to have at least two domestic players on the court in every season game from 2009 and so push the teams not to employee four foreigners as allowed now. The managements of the 14 first division clubs did not agree with that, so he decided not to be the head coach of our NT anymore.

Lajos Meszaros is one experienced coach, he used to work for our NT before. His assistant coach will be Imre Horvath .

*****************************************************
  IBL   


Extra exposure for IBL players in Michigan at Rivertown Sports - by Lucius Jones
Rivertown Sports Basketball Draft League on Friday nights at Rivertown Sports in Grandville, MI. There is a ton of talent that shows up from week to week and a draft is conducted and teams play games. It's only $8.00 and over 20 IBL players have played over the past few weeks. RTS is located at 2605 Sanford Ave. SW Grandville, MI 49418. In the 8th week the games will be recorded for agent purposes and Tyler Recommends any player trying to get noticed to participate. Tyler is the Director of Basketball Operations for the Holland Blast and is currently the all-time wins leader amongst Dir. of basketball ops with over 65 wins and helping over 60 pro basketball players get there start over the past few years.

IBL Playoff preview - by Jeffrey Duncan
EAST

Elkhart Express

Head Coach: Daimon Bethea

Record: 21-1

Note: Two time defending IBL Champions

Comments: What more can be said about Elkhart? They are the gold standard for the IBL. On and off the court this is a first class organization. Elkhart is lead by their three core players, Tim Pledger, Cedric Moodie and Coleco Buie. This is not just a three man show however. Elkhart is the deepest team in the IBL. Lincoln Glass, Jarrod Lovette, Chris Charles and Will Whittington make major contributions. How do you guard Elkhart? Do you take away the inside game of Lovette, Charles, and

7-2 James Tyler or do you guard the perimeter players, Buie, Pledger, Moodie and three point specialist Whittington? I am glad I don't have to coach against them. I guess this is why they are 21-1 (the lone loss being to Gary) and two time defending IBL champs.



Elgin Racers

Head Coach: Michael Murphy

Record: 8-10

Note: Second place in the Midwest division

Comments: Elgin has been a bit up and down this season. They are 0-3 against Elkhart this season but no game was decided by more than 7 points. The Racers have played very well at times but have never managed to put a long streak together. DeAnthony Bowden has been a nice pick up for Elgin. He is averaging 15 points and 5 boards in eight games. The Racers are lead by guard Brandon Watkins and his 23 points and 6 dimes per game. Keith Gayden provide inside muscle with 17 points and 10 rebounds per game. Parrish Brown and Phil Watson also contribute double figure scoring for Elgin. If Elgin gets a decent draw in the first round and they get to play Elkhart it could be a heck of a game as Elgin knows they can play with Elkhart.



Battle Creek Knights

Head Coach: Terry Sare

Record: 8-11

Note: 2005 IBL Champions.

Comments: It's been a year of roster and coaching changes for the Knights. They have never really found their groove. Terry Sare took over the head coaching duties early on after ownership decided they wanted to move in a different direction. Many roster moves have led to an up and down season. Leading the way for the Knights is Bobby Madison and his 19 points per game and 7 rebounds. He has been the one consistent player this season. Also contributing to BC this season is Rashi Johnson who is averaging 14 points and 5 boards. Nick Zachery, Ryan Edwards, Ed McCants and Jamal Ward all have been contributors but none have played in over seven games. Tough to have a team gel when half the roster is new.



Chicago Windy City Soldiers

Record: 11-15

Note: Second-year IBL Franchise

Comments: What a difference a year makes. Last season the Soldiers finished 0-18-this year they have 15 wins. The Soldiers are lead by a core group of five solid players. 6'9 Eric Rhinehart leads the way with 23 points and 6 rebounds per game. He closely followed by DeMarcus Bolten and his 20 points and 7 boards per game. Rounding out the big five are Barry Bradford, Anthony Spencer and Marcus Jackson. On any given night Windy City can sneak up and beat someone. They are coming into the playoffs on a four game losing skid.



WEST



Vancouver Volcanoes

Head Coach: Theo Evens

Record: 17-6

Note: Second place in the West division

Comment: Aside from Windy City, Vancouver made the biggest turn around in the

IBL. From never winning more than six games in the previous three seasons the Volcanoes have racked up 17 W's this year. Vancouver has flown a little under the radar because they do not have the star power of teams like SnoCo, Portland and LA. It would be a major mistake to underestimate the talent on the Volcanoes roster. Vancouver is lead by a group of seven players who have all played in the vast majority of games this season. Porter Troupe leads the way with 22 points a game, 6 rebounds and 6 assists. Close behind is point guard Kevin Tyner with very similar stats as Troupe. Jake Carlisle, Kevin Bloodsaw, Alex Hartman, Brad Lechtenberg, and Josh Jackson all average at least 14 points per game. Vancouver will be a tough out.



Snohomish County Explosion

Head Coach: Randy Redwine

Record: 13-9

Note: Third place in the West Division

Comments: SnoCo struggled to be a .500 team this season after a fantastic first year record of 17-6. Much of the struggle can be attributed to the absence of Rashaad Powell and Justin Murray. Both were playing overseas and just recently rejoined the Explosion. No surprise after playing in two games they are 1-2 in scoring on the Explosion. Aleksey Adediran was a very good mid season pick up and is scoring 18 points a game along with seven rebounds. Jamaal Miller, Chris Weakly and Chris Keller have scored in double figures for SnoCo. With Powell and Murray back SnoCo could make a run in the wild-wild West I would not bank on them winning it.



Central Oregon Hotshots

Head Coach: Joe Becera

Record: 8-16

Note: Charter member of the IBL

Comments: Joe Becera and the Hotshots thought this would be a breakout season.

Some solid returning players and the addition of sharp shooter Jeff Dunn made the season a promising one. Things never clicked and the Hotshots stumbled to an

8-16 record. Dunn left the team at the end of the season sighting he was not having much fun and he promptly signed with the Edmonton Grizzlies. During the season fan favorite Arthur Lewis Jr. only played in four games. He was not only a crowd favorite but an excellent point guard. Central Oregon is lead by Terry Horton who averages 24 points and 10 rebounds per game. Supporting Horton are Jalontae Martin, Cliff White, Chris Nixon and Philip Freeman. All are scoring over 14 points a game. The loss of Jeff Dunn and his 25 points a game will really hurt Central Oregon. They can still score some points but can they score enough to compete with the upper echelon teams?



Bellingham Slam

Head Coach: Rob Ridnour

Record: 16-4

Note: First-year IBL team

Comments: The Slam has made a very smooth transition from the ABA to the IBL.

They, like Vancouver, have flown a bit under the radar because they do not have the 'star players' like some other Western teams. Make no mistake, Bellingham has a load of talent, and they play well together as a team. Guard Ryan Diggs is having an MVP season averaging 26 points 6 rebounds and 6 assists per game. Diggs receives lots of help from Tyler Amaya, Jacob Stevenson, Lukas Henne, Paul Hafford, Brandon Hartley and Jared Stevenson. All score in double digits and can pass and rebound. For my money there is no better 'team' than Bellingham. They may not have star power, but they have talent, and they play together.



Edmonton Chill

Head Coach: Paul Sir

Record: 12-7

Note: Expansion team

Comments: It's hard to tell who was the better expansion team this season, Gary or

Edmonton? Edmonton head coach Paul Sir recruited an excellent mix of players and it shows on and off the court. Talented guard JR Patrick leads a balanced offensive attack. Patrick is scoring 20 points a game along with dishing out 4 assists. Rashaun Broadus runs the point for Edmonton and has been a very pleasant surprise. Broadus could not make the Portland Chinook roster but has found a home with the Chill. Late season pick up Marco Morgan adds muscle inside and sharp shooter Jeff Dunn, just signed after playing the season for Central Oregon, adds experience and a deft shooting touch. Jermaine Bucknor, another late season pick up may not be available for the playoffs. Lee Scrugs is another valuable inside player averaging 16 points and nine boards per game. If shooter Stepher Sir rejoins the team in time for the playoffs Edmonton can give any team a run for their money.



Portland Chinooks

Head Coach: Terrance Dickens

Record: 14-14

Note: Lost in the IBL finals last year

Comments: Record-wise this season was not nearly as good as last year's 20-7 mark but a large part of this can be attributed to the Chinooks not having the big three all season. David Lucas, Shammgod Wells and David Jackson were not available for large stretches of this season do to overseas commitments. Lucas has played in thirteen games and leads the IBL in scoring at a 36 point a game clip. Shammgod Wells has only played in two games and David Jackson has not played a game yet but will be ready for the playoffs according to head coach Terrance Dickens. Kenny Tate has had a very nice season for Portland averaging 18 points 8 rebounds and 5 assists per game. Other major contributors are Larry Smith, Chris Stephens, Mark Robinowitz and Dean Browne. If Lucas, Wells, Jackson, Tate and Browne are the starting five like I have been told, watch out for Portland. They could make another run at an IBL title.





Jeff Duncan covers the IBL and minor league basketball. He can be reached at sportsmammal@nwlink.com.

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


Lega2 - Market news - by Gabriele Fioretti
After signed coach Franco Gramenzi , Scafati begin to work on its roster: inked Oscar Gugliotta (193-G-82), rumours talk about the come back of Cristiano Masper (208-F-73) after three years away and Davide Cristelli (203-F-77). Today Venezia will introduce to the media Guido Meini (188-G-79). Soresina seems that is trying to sign Marco Rossi (183-G-81), with Alessandro Piazza (175-G-87) and Mattia Caroldi (185-G-82) as alternative. Veroli has finaly the new head coach: Andrea Trinchieri . Benjamin Ortner (206-F/C-83, college: Metro St.) announced that he won't play at Reggio Emilia next season so the team coached by Franco Marcelletti could be interested in Fiorello Toppo (198-F/C-80), from Pistoia where also Matteo Bertolazzi (181-G-79) won't play there in the next season.

Danilo Gallinari joined Knicks - by Eurobasket News
Italian Danilo Gallinari (205-G/F-88, agency: Players Group) will play for New York Knicks in NBA next season. The team chose Italian player in number 6 of the first round.
Danilo has grown up playing in Italy and made his professional debut with the team in the Italian Serie B-1 League in 2004-05. Last season Danilo Gallinari spent for Armani and struggled hard even in the play-offs. He averaged 17.5 points and 5.7 rebounds being the key players for the team. With Armani he had averaged 14.9 points and 4.2 rebounds in Euroleague campaign. Recorded 27 points for Italian squad against Maccabi Elite. In 2005 Danilo and Italy earn a bronze medal at the U-18 European Championships held in Belgrade, averaging 10.6 points and 4.9 rebounds.
Knicks definitely require help from Danilo Gallinari as the last season was an upset for the team. New York finished with 23-59 record in Atlantic Div. of Eastern Conference in NBA.
Meanwhile Chicago Bulls drafted Derrick Rose from Memphis as #1 pick just hours ago. Michael Beasley of Kansas State University was selected as the second pick by the Miami Heat. The Minnesota Timberwolves opted for O.J. Mayo of University of Southern California but traded him immediately. That was the Draft night full of interesting choices and trades.

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


Lithuanian U18 Team grabs two wins at Douai tournament - by Eurobasket News
Lithuanian U18 Team got to a winning start at French international tournament. Lithuania opened their exhibition campaign with a confident 92:71 success against Israel. Lithuanian dominated right from the start as they accumulated a 51:33 lead at the interval. Israel sparked shortly in the third frame outscoring their opponents but the momentum had gone and Lithuanian side took over in the final period. They eased to an overall victory to climb on top of Group A. Donatas Motiejunas (214-C-90) led the team with 21 points and 3 blocks. Gilvydas Biruta (200-F-91) notched 16 points and Mantas Kadzevicius (193-G-91) recorded 15 points for the winners.
The Lithuanian youngsters stretched their winning run a day later when they took on Croatia. Lithuanian team outgunned their opponents 24:15 in the starting quarter but could not hold on to the lead. Croatia cut the gap to a single point before the final frame. The tight fourth quarter saw no team able to capitalize and the overtime was needed. There Lithuania proved strength and snatched an 86:77 victory. Donatas Motiejunas contributed 19 points and 10 boards. Tautvydas Slezas (207-C-90) knocked down 12 points, while Matas Sapiega (180-G-90) secured 9 in a win. Lithuania will take on the USA in the last game of the preliminary round today.

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  MALTA   


Welsh U16 Team dominates the European Championship in Division C opener - by Eurobasket News
Wales U16 - Malta U16 78:20

Welsh U16 National Team got to a flying start of their European Championship in Division C campaign. They held off Maltese counterparts for the first win at the tournament. The game turned into a one-sided traffic with Welsh thumping their opponents. The teams got to a slow start of the game with Trotman and Hinchliffe giving Wales a 10:3 lead at the end of the starting period. Wales went on a 12:0 run in the second quarter to clear off to a 25:7 mark. Coleman capped the first half with 3 points to give Welsh side a 30:8 lead at the interval. Adams and Owen teamed up for 10 unanswered points late in the third stanza as Wales accumulated a 48:10 advantage. Wales kept on piling point untamed in the final minutes. They breezed to an easy victory at the end toppling the ladder in preliminary Group B. Hinchlife secured 18 points and 15 boards for Wales. Kilmartin added 10 points for the winners. Bugeja led Malta with 7 points in defeat. Wales had an outstanding dominance in all game components. They outrebounded their opponents 64:32 and forced those to unbelievable 52 turnovers. Maltese team also shot only 17% from the field. Wales answered with 38% accuracy from the field. Malta will try to rebound against Monaco today. Wales takes on Scotland today.

Wales U16: Michael Hinchlife 18+15 boards, Alex Kilmartin 10
Malta U16: David Bugeja 7

Malta U16 steals narrow win over Monaco - by Eurobasket News
Malta U16 - Monaco U16 43:42

Maltese U16 National Team remained hopeful about their semifinal ambitions at the European championship in Division C. They managed to rebound after a stunning loss to Wales to put up a do-or-die fight against Monaco. Malta used a trey from Bugeja and a jumper from Cilia to gain a 7:4 lead early in the encounter. But Monaco answered with 8 unanswered points to cap the quarter and enjoyed a 15:11 advantage at the first break. Thirouard scored 4 points in a row and put Monaco ahead 22:15 midway through the second stanza. Ronal capped a low-scoring second frame with a freebie and Monaco led 23:15 at the interval. Thirouard added 4 more points at the start of the third term as Monaco built a comfortable 12-point cushion. However Cilia knocked down a jumper to ignite a 10:2 run from Malta to put the team just 4 points behind Monaco late in the quarter. Borg crowned the third frame with a long bomb and Malta trailed 28:30 heading into the final period. Borg and Bugeja put Malta in charge shortly after the start of the fourth term. The lead changed hands for 4 times before Cilia sank a layup for a 41:40 Maltese lead with just over a minute left in regulation. Ronenal answered with a jump shot to retain the advantage for Monaco. Malta had 42 seconds to pull away with a victory. Bugeja was accurate from the field giving Malta a 43:42 lead with 21 seconds on the clock. Robinaud and Bugeja exchanged turnovers and finally Thirouard committed a travelling and Malta celebrated the initial win at the tournament.
David Bugeja was dominant with 15 points, 10 boards and 8 steals. Mark Cilia contributed 10 points and 12 boards for the winners. Jeremy Thirouard chipped in 11 points to pace Monaco. Robert Rosenahl had 10 points and 15 boards in defeat.

Malta U16: David Bugeja 15+10 boards, Mark Cilia 10+12 boards
Monaco U16: Jeremy Thirouard 11, Robert Rosenahl 10+15 boards

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  MEXICO   


Newest Transactions in the LNBP - by Carlos Chapa
Hector Hernandez (206-F-85, agency: European Basketball Agency), who was announced as a member of the Mexican National Team will join Lechugueros de Leon, after a successful stint with Fresno St. in College. Hector can play as a Small Forward or Power Forward, and is considered skilled for long range shots despite his height. Another foreigner was announced by Lechugueros, his name is Guillermo Will Cabrera (191-G/F-81, agency: HM Sports Agency), the Paraguayan-American plays as a Shooting Guard or Small Forward.

Fuerza Regia Monterrey also announced new players, the member of the Venezuelan National Team Jose Vargas (196-G/F-82, agency: DR. Carlos Sifuentes); he is expected to win the MVP award this season in his home country. Daryan Selvy (197-F/G-79, college: Oklahoma) also inked with Monterrey, the American veteran earned the CBA player of the year award, and was a member of the championship winning team Oklahoma Cavalry, Selvy played along with teammate Marvin Phillips (201-G/F-83, college: Claflin) in Cavalry, they will play together next season in Fuerza Regia.

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  MOLDOVA   


Moldova U16 goes 2-0 in Gibraltar - by Eurobasket News
Moldova U16 - San Marino U16 64:44

Moldovan U16 National Team grabbed their second consecutive win at the start of the European Championship in Division C. Today they held off San Marino to go on top of preliminary Group A. Guerra put San Marino ahead 3:0 at the very beginning of the game. But Moldova soon drew things even and the teams rolled to a 12:12 tie-game after ten minutes of action. Ribac scored 5 points in a row to open the second frame and put Moldova in front. Moretti and Stefanelli cut the deficit but Moldova kept on forcing the issue. Carali scored 4 points and Melniciuc capped the first half with a layup for a 30:17 Moldovan advantage. Melniciuc scored 5 points in an 8:0 rally from Moldova at the start of the third quarter. He tallied 9 points in the third quarter and Moldova led comfortably 50:30 heading into the final period. Giancecchi sparked hope for San Marino as he netted 4 straight points early in the fourth but the effort was quickly denied Cojuhari. Modlova kept their opponents at bay through the rest of the contest and finalized an impressive victory. Denis Melniciuc led all scorers with 14 points. Nicolai Cojuhari added 11 points in a win. San Marino answered with 13 points from Davide Macina. Three players came up with 6 points apiece in a losing case. Moldova booked their semifinal spot and would wrap preliminary action against hosting Gibraltar tomorrow.

Moldova U16: Denis Melniciuc 14, Nicolai Cojuhari 11
San Marino U16: Davide Macina 13

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  NBA   


NBA Draft 2008 - by Eurobasket News
NBA Draft 2008


Rose


Beasley


Mayo


Westbrook


Love
The Chicago Bulls drafted Derrick Rose (6'4''-G-88) from Memphis as #1 pick just hours ago. Michael Beasley (6'9''-F-89) of Kansas State University was selected as the second pick by the Miami Heat. The Minnesota Timberwolves opted for O.J. Mayo (6'5''-G-87) of University of Southern California but traded him immediately. That was the Draft night full of interesting choices and trades.

Trades:
The Minnesota Timberwolves decided to send O.J. Mayo to Memphis. The USC guard was selected under the third number in the Draft by the Timberwolves. He was later included in a mega-deal between Minnesota and Memphis. The Timberwolves agreed to send Mayo, Antoine Walker, Greg Buckner and Marko Jaric to the Memphis. The No. 5 pick Kevin Love (6'10''-C-88), Mike Miller, Brian Cardinal and Jason Collins will travel in the opposite direction.
Portland agreed to send the rights to Brandon Rush (6'6''-G-85), Jarrett Jack and Josh McRoberts to the Indiana Pacers in exchange for the rights to Jerryd Bayless (6'3''-G-88) and Ike Diogu.
Portland continued their busy night trading Darrell Arthur (6'9''-F-88) of University of Kansas (6'9''-F-88) and Joey Dorsey (6'9''-F-85) for the right to French swingman Nicolas Batum (6'7''-F-88). Darrell Arthur however did not stay with the Rockets for long. He was sent to Memphis for the rights to Syracuse Donte Green and future second-round pick. Portland also traded the rights for Omer Asik (6'11''-C-86) to Chicago for three future second-round picks. They also traded Mike Taylor (6'2''-G-86) to the Los Angeles Clippers for the 2009 second-round pick.
Detroit traded the rights for 29th pick D.J. White (6'9''-F-86) to Seattle. The Supersonics gave away the 32nd pick Walter Sharpe (6'9''-F-86) and the 46th choice Trent Plaisted (6'11''-F/C-86).
Minnesota picked Mario Chalmers (6'1''-G-86) under the 34th number but sent the rights for him to the Miami Heat for cash and two second-round picks in 2009.
Washington selected Bill Walker (6'6''-F-87) as 47th overall pick and traded him to the Boston Celtics for cash.
Malik Hairston (6'6''-G-87) was chosen by the Suns but the rights for him were sent to the Spurs together with future second-round pick and cash in exchange for Goran Dragic (6'5''-G-86).

Draft picks:

Round One
1 Chicago Bulls Derrick Rose (6'4'-G-88) of Memphis
2 Miami Heat Michael Beasley (6'9'-F-89) of Kansas State
3 Minnesota Timberwolves O.J. Mayo (6'5'-G-87) of S.California
4 Seattle Supersonics Russell Westbrook (6'3''-G-88) of UCLA
5 Memphis Grizzlies Kevin Love (6'10'-F/C-88) of UCLA
6 New York Knicks Danilo Gallinari (6'9''-G/F-88) of Milano (ITA)
7 Los Angeles Clippers Eric Gordon (6'4''-G-88) of Indiana
8 Milwaukee Bucks Joe Alexander (6'8''-F-86) of West Virginia
9 Charlotte Bobcats D.J. Augustin (5'11''-G-87) of Texas
10 New Jersey Nets Brook Lopez (7'0''-F/C-88) of Stanford
11 Indiana Pacers Jerryd Bayless (6'3'-G-88) of Arizona
12 Sacramento Kings Jason Thompson (6'11''-F-86) of Rider
13 Portland Trail Blazers Brandon Rush (6'6'-G-85) of Kansas
14 Golden State Warriors Anthony Randolph (6'11''-F-89) of LSU
15 Phoenix Suns (from Atlanta) Robin Lopez (7'0''-C-88) of Stanford
16 Philadelphia 76ers Marreese Speights (6'10''-F/C-87) of Florida
17 Toronto Raptors Roy Hibbert (7'2''-C-86) of Georgetown
18 Washington Wizards Javale McGee (6'11''-F-88) of Nevada
19 Cleveland Cavaliers J.J. Hickson (6'9''-F/C-88) of N.C. State
20 Charlotte Bobcats (from Denver) Alexis Ajinca (7'1''-C-88) of Hyeres-Toulon (FRA)
21 New Jersey Nets (from Dallas) Ryan Anderson (6'10''-F-88) of California
22 Orlando Magic Courtney Lee (6'5''-G/F-85) of Western Kentucky
23 Utah Jazz Kosta Koufos (7'0''-F/C-89) of Ohio State
24 Seattle SuperSonics (from Phoenix) Serge Ibaka (6'10''-C/F-89) of C.B. L'Hospitalet (ESP)
25 Houston Rockets Nicolas Batum (6'7'-F-88) of Le Mans (FRA) (To Portland)
26 San Antonio Spurs George Hill (6'2''-G-86 ) of IUPUI
27 New Orleans Darrell Arthur, Forward, Kansas (To Memphis via Portland)
28 Memphis Grizzlies (from L.A. Lakers) Donte Greene (6'9''-F-88) of Syracuse (To Houston)
29 Detroit Pistons D.J. White (6'9'-F-86) of Indiana (To Seattle)
30 Boston Celtics J.R. Giddens (6'5''-G-85) of New Mexico


Round Two
31 Minnesota Timberwolves (from Miami) Nikola Pekovic (6'11''-C-86) of Partizan (SRB)
32 Seattle SuperSonics Walter Sharpe (6'9'-F-86) of Alabama-Birmingham
33 Portland Trail Blazers (from Memphis) Joey Dorsey (6'9'-F-85) of Memphis (To Houston)
34 Minnesota Timberwolves Mario Chalmers (6'1'-G-86) of Kansas (To Miami)
35 Los Angeles Clippers DeAndre Jordan (7'0''-C-88) of Texas A&M
36 Portland Trail Blazers (from New York) Omer Asik (6'11'-C-86) of Fenerbahce (TUR) (To Chicago)
37 Milwaukee Bucks Luc Richard Mbah a Moute (6'7''-G/F-88) of UCLA
38 Charlotte Bobcats Kyle Weaver (6'6''-G-86) of Washington State
39 Chicago Bulls Sonny Weems (6'6''-G/F-86) of Arkansas (To Denver)
40 New Jersey Nets Chris Douglas-Roberts (6'7''-G-87) of Memphis
41 Indiana Pacers Nathan Jawai (6'10''-C-86) of Cairns Taipans (AUS)
42 Sacramento Kings (from Atlanta) Sean Singletary (6'0''-G-85) of Virginia
43 Sacramento Kings Patrick Ewing Jr. (6'8''-F-84) of Georgetown
44 Utah Jazz (from Philadelphia) Ante Tomic (7'2''-C-87) of KK Zagreb (CRO)
45 San Antonio Spurs (from Toronto) Goran Dragic (6'5'-G-86) of Tau Vitoria (ESP), (To Phoenix)
46 Seattle SuperSonics (from Portland) Trent Plaisted (6'11'-F/C-86) of BYU
47 Washington Wizards Bill Walker (6'6'-F-87) of Kansas State (To Boston)
48 Phoenix Suns (from Cleveland) Malik Hairston (6'6'-G-87) of Oregon (To San Antonio)
49 Golden State Warriors Richard Hendrix (6'8''-F-86) of Alabama
50 Seattle SuperSonics (from Denver) DeVon Hardin (6'11''-C-86) of California
51 Dallas Mavericks Shan Foster (6'6''-G/F-86) of Vanderbilt
52 Miami Heat (from Orlando) Darnell Jackson (6'8''-F-85) of Kansas
53 Utah Jazz Tadija Dragicevic (6'9''-F-86) of Crvena Zvezda (SRB)
54 Houston Rockets Maarty Leunen (6'9''-F-85) of Oregon
55 Portland Trail Blazers (from Phoenix) Mike Taylor (6'2'-G-86) of Idaho Stampede (To L.A. Clippers)
56 Seattle SuperSonics (from New Orleans) Sasha Kaun (6'11''-C-85) of Kansas
57 San Antonio Spurs James Gist (6'8''-F-86) of Maryland
58 Los Angeles Lakers Joe Crawford (6'5''-G-86) of Kentucky
59 Detroit Pistons Deron Washington (6'7''-G/F-85) of Virginia Tech
60 Boston Celtics Semih Erden (6'11''-C-87) of Fenerbahce (TUR)




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  NCAA2   


Dustin Pfeifer formerly of U. of Findlay signs to top division team in Germany ! - by Lucius Jones
Dustin Pfeifer (5'8''-G-83, college: Findlay (OH)) and Hertener Loewen came to a mutual agreement to end their deal early after the point guard was second in assists per game (6.8apg) in the 2. Bundesliga Pro B as well as in steals per contest (3.0spg) and 11th in points per game (19.0ppg) in 2007-2008. The ultra-quick pure point guard will ascend one level to suit up for BV Chemnitz 99 (Pro A) in the upcoming 2008-2009 year. Dustin Pfeifer, who played his first year as a pro in Denmark and was named the 2006-2007 Eurobasket.com All-Danish Basketliga Guard of the Year. He started this past season on a team called Regionalliga West-side Benslips Baskets Salzkotten and headed to Hertener Loewen in February 2008. Look for this rising star to continue his stellar play and exciting brand of ball in the top division of Germany and possibly beyond in the future. The former D2 All American and career leader in assists and steals among other statistical categories at Findlay (OH) is one of the many stories of D2 basketball players making a quality living overseas in the game of basketball.

2008 Kentucky Pro Am - by Lucius Jones
26/06: 2008 KPA Day 1 Scores and Updates
Posted by: kyproam

The KPA Tryout was a success and some quality players showed up for the tryout. Coach Pete Sambu ran a very good workout and the players performed well. A standout was Boris Siakom from Western Kentucky University. The 6-8 foward was impressive in the workout.

Day 1 Scores
KPA Blue 83 KPA White65
KPA Blue 83 - David Morris 22, Boris Siakom 15, JR Gordon 12, Rodney Fields 8, Chad Embry 9, John Coleman 11, David Graham 6
KPA White 65 - Clinton Joshua 16, Vic Morris 15, Anthony Sirota 11, Kenny Lee 10, Carlos English 8, Ricky Yahn 3, Andy Yareth 2

David Morris (Dayton, Romania) came out with 12pts in the first quarter to set the tone for the Blue team in the scrimmage tryout game. Boris Siakom (Western Kentucky 08) had 15 point and 10 rebounds for the blue. Clint Joshua ( Campbellsville, 08) lead white with 16pts and 10 rebounds. Victor Morris (Cleveland State, Germany) also had 15 points for White.

Game 2 Team Live (Baltimore, Maryland) 62 Pals Elite (Wilberforce Ohio) 61
Team Live 62- Thad Key 16, Damon Garris 15, Earl Carr 13, Jon Patterson 11, Paul Lodzik 7
Pals Elite 61 - Demarcus Perry 23, Raulston Charles 13, Michael Futrell 6, Terrence Davision 10, Brandon Adams 9,

Veteran KPA Performers lead Team Live/Wings to Go in this one. Thad Key (KWC) had 16pts and Damon Garris (KWC/Iceland) had 15 points. Earl Carr was also very impressive running the point for the Baltimore team. Pals Elite was lead by hot shooting Demarcus Perry (Sienna) with 23 and an extremely athletic talent in Raulston Charles with 13.

Game 3 Louisville Riverballers 74 TAAG Enterprises (Tampa Florida) 67
Louisville Riverballers 74 - Ladrell Whitehead 13, Jermaine Brown 12, Shannon Wilkerson 11, David Scott 11, Mo Moore 11, Mitchell Speedy 9, Brandon Moore 5, Jay Rush 2
TAAG Enterprises 67 - Dominque Coleman 22, Jay Free 14, Jamison Clark 12, Damitrious Coleman 4, Jeremiah Coleman 4, Russell Brown 10, Mohamed Essigher 1

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  PARAGUAY   


Three teams at the top - by Gianni Pascucci
The Day 4 of the Semifinal Round saw the wins of Sacachispas, 90-87 over America de Pilar, and Sol de America, 104-69 over Deportivo San Jose. The main performers were Ricardo Ozuna (185-G/F-82), who scored 30 pts in losing effort for America, Enzo Ruiz (193-F-88) and Derrick Miller (202-C/F-78, college: Georgetown, KY), who scored 24 pts each for Sacachispas, Peter Kiganya (197-F-72, college: Abil.Christian), who led Sol with 23 points, and Miguel Isola (198-F-83), who scored 13 pts in the bad game pleyed by Deportivo San Jose. Three teams are now at the top of the table with the same record and the same hopes to qualify for the Final series, San Jose is sadly at the bottom....
1. America 2-2
1. Sacachispas 2-2
1. Sol de America 2-2
4. Dep.San Jose 1-3

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  PHILIPPINES   


Standings - PBA Fiesta Conference
PBA Standings
 1. Air21 11-6 
 2. Red Bull 10-6 
 3. Alaska 9-7 
 4. Magnolia 9-8 
 5. Coca-Cola 9-8 
 6. Talk N Text 8-8 
 7. Purefoods 8-9 
 8. Ginebra 7-8 
 9. Sta Lucia 7-9 
 10. Welcoat D. 4-13 


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  POLAND   


Paravinja in Anwil, Garner and Flevarakis in Polpak - by Michal Falkowski
Anwil Wloclawek announced the signing of Milos Paravinja (212-C/F-79, agency: Interperformances). 29-year-old power forward / center inked one-year deal today. Paravinja is Croatian-born player, however he has a Slovenian passport and performed as a representative of Slovenia National Team. Last season he spent in TDShop.it Livorno where he was averaging 7.3 ppg. and 4.7 rpg. Before the adventure with Italy, he had played for example in Olimpija Ljlubljana, Krka Nove Mesto, Geoplin Slovan Ljubljana and Telekom Baskets Bonn. It is worth underlining that the headcoach of Anwil, Zmago Sagadin , knows Paravinja very well from Olimpija.

Kostas Flevarakis and Polpak Swiecie came to the mutual agreement so it means that there are high chances Greek coach will lead Polpak in the next season. Flevarakis has already coached Polpak, where he joined the team in the middle of 2007/2008.
In the meantime the board of Polpak and Chris Garner (178-G-75, agency: SportsTalent, college: Memphis) have signatured one-year extension deal. Garner joined Polpak in the middle of the last season and, including play-offs, he played 24 games averaging 7.4 ppg., 2.3 rpg. and 1.9 apg. The club is also interested in extending contracts with Marko Brkic (206-F-82, agency: Beo Basket) and Nikola Lepojevic (195-G-82, agency: Beo Basket) and signing Zbigniew Bialek (203-F-82) (he has got an offer from Energa Czarni Slupsk too). However, all of next decision will depend on new coach.

Frasunkiewicz to Polonia, Szubarga to Atlas Stal - by Michal Falkowski
Przemyslaw Frasunkiewicz (202-G/F-79) is very close to SPEC Polonia Warsaw. Polish small forward spent last three years in Energa Czarni Slupsk where was a key player in the team of Igor Griszczuk. At the moment there is no Griszczuk, so Frasunkiewicz has decided to split his way up with Energa and move to Polonia Warsaw team. Last season he 7.0 ppg., 4.2 rpg. and 2.9 apg.
It is worth underlining that SPEC Polonia will be coached by Wojciech Kaminski again. Moreover the club is interested in extending deals with Greg Harrington (188-G-79, agency: Hart Sports Mngm, college: Tulsa) and Norman Richardson (196-F/G-77, college: Hofstra). Paul Miller (208-C-82, college: Wichita St.), who got an offer from Anwil Wloclawek, will probably leave the team. Next who will leave is Karol Gruszecki (195-F-89) junior player who chose USA as his direction of developement.

Atlas Stal Ostrow Wielkopolski agreed all terms of contract with Krzysztof Szubarga (184-G-84). At the moment both sides' signatures are formality. The club is also interested in signing Kristijan Ercegovic (208-C-76, agency: VTBM/SRBM) from Victoria Gornik Walbrzych, Lukasz Majewski (199-F-82) from Polpharma Starogard Gdanski, Tomasz Ochonko (188-G-86) from Big Star Tychy, Tomasz Smorawinski (190-G-87) from a newcomer of DBE Politechnika Poznan. Some rumours say about Lonnie Cooper (193-G-76, college: Louisiana Tech) who would be the first playmaker of the team.
Andrzej Kowalczyk and his assistant Wadim Czeczuro will lead Atlas Stal in the 2008/2009 season.

Tomasz Zablocki (202-F-78, agency: Promotex) is very close to extend his deal with Victoria Gornik Walbrzych according to Przeglad Sportowy newspaper. Zablocki was averaging 9.4 ppg. And 2.8 rpg. last season being one of the most important player of the team.

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  RUSSIA   


Sasha Kaun signed a pro contract in Russia - by Eurobasket News
Sasha Kaun (211-C-85) was chosen by some teams in NBA Draft last night, but will spent the next season in Russia. After concluding his senior season at the University of Kansas Sasha Kaun announced on Sunday that he has signed a three-year contract with CSKA Moscow. During the 2007-08 season Kaun played 40 games for Kansas, with averages of 17.7 minutes, 7.1 points, 3.9 rebounds and 1.2 blocked shots. Kaun will also try out for the Russian Olympic team July 3 in Moscow.
Sasha Kaun was the 56th overall choice of the Seattle Supersonics. Kaun, who was then traded to the Cleveland Cavaliers, recently signed a pro contract at his home in Russia for a three-year commitment and Cleveland will have his NBA rights when that contract is complete.In 2007 he helped lead Kansas to four straight regular-season titles and the 2008 NCAA title.
Meanwhile Chicago Bulls drafted Derrick Rose from Memphis as #1 pick just hours ago. Michael Beasley of Kansas State University was selected as the second pick by the Miami Heat. The Minnesota Timberwolves opted for O.J. Mayo of University of Southern California but traded him immediately. That was the Draft night full of interesting choices and trades.
Zoran Planinic meanwhile arrived in Moscow after signing the contract with the team. Today the player settled down in Holiday Inn Lesnaya, went to CSKA arena and signed the original contract. Tomorrow he is going back to Split to join his Croatian National team that is preparing for the Olympic Qualifying tournament.

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  SCOTLAND   


Basketball Competition Manager appointed - by Sandy Sutherland
Former Scotland captain and Portobello High School FP Joanna Sutherland has been appointed as the London 2012 Organising Committees Competition Manager for Basketball.
She will be responsible for all the planning, organisation and management of the Olympic Basketball and Wheelchair Basketball events in 2012. The Olympic Basketball events take place in the Olympic Park and at the North Greenwich Arena 1 in Greenwich. Wheelchair Basketball events take place in the Olympic Park and the North Greenwich Arena 1.
Commenting on her appointment, Joanna said: Im honoured to be given the opportunity to help showcase Basketball and Wheelchair Basketball at the London Olympic Games and Paralympic Games. The Games are a terrific chance for Basketball in the UK to start realising some of its potential and I look forward to contributing to that process my only regret is that I wont be playing in the Games themselves!
FIBA (the International Basketball Federation) Secretary General and International Olympic Committee member Patrick Baumann said: FIBA is very pleased with the appointment of Joanna Sutherland as Competition Manager for Basketball. Her basketball knowledge and experience in working with FIBA, FIBA Europe and our member national federations at both FIBA Continental and World Championships will put her in good standing for this vital and very important position. We look forward to working with her to make Basketball once again one of the top sports at the Olympic Games in London in 2012.
Malcolm Tarkenter, Chairman of the Great Britain Wheelchair Basketball Association, said: We congratulate Joanna on her appointment and wish her good luck. We are excited that the London Organising Committee is following the example set in Sydney of the same competition manager being responsible for the delivery of both events. Joannas role is central to the realisation of our goals, not only for our athletes, but for all of our officials and volunteers who will be striving over the next few years to be part of London 2012.
Joannas key responsibilities include the overseeing of all aspects of the Basketball competition and to be the focal point for liaison with the International Basketball Federation and the International Wheelchair Basketball Federation. She will ensure that the competition is organised in accordance with international federation regulations, the International Olympic Committee Charter and the Host City Contract. Joanna will liaise with other functional areas to ensure the coordinated delivery of support services such as accreditation, venue operations, medical services and volunteers.
Joanna will travel to the Beijing Games to see what lessons can be learned from the Basketball and Wheelchair Basketball events there. She will initially take up her post on a part-time basis, becoming full time towards the end of 2009.
Joanna, a native of Edinburgh, has been working in international sport, primarily basketball, for the last ten years. Having graduated in Law and French from Edinburgh University, Joanna joined the International Basketball Federation (FIBA) in Munich in 1998 and gained considerable experience in both the Competitions and Media Departments before moving to assist in the organisation of the 2002 European Athletics Championships, also in Munich. Rejoining FIBA Europe, Joanna soon had a key role in the delivery of major events, notably EuroBasket 2005 (the 2005 European Championship for Men) in Serbia and Montenegro and EuroBasket Women 2005 in Turkey. As a result, she was invited to join the Spanish Basketball Federation in Madrid as Operations Director of EuroBasket 2007 which later received the accolade of being FIBAs most successfully marketed event to date. Still an active player, Joanna also captained British Universities and was Scotlands Player of the Year in 1998.


Scotland U16 Team topples Monaco in Gibraltar - by Eurobasket News
Scotland U16 - Monaco U16 83:29

Scottish U16 National Team celebrated the initial victory at the European Championship in Division C in Gibraltar. They dispatched Monaco Juniors yesterday and climbed on top of Group B together with Wales. Buchan scored 4 points and Scotland jumped to a 10:0 lead at the start of the game. Rosenal and Sprile cut the deficit but just to see Scottish team went on a 13:0 run to maintain a 25:8 advantage at the first intermission. Scotland opened the second quarter with an 11:0 rally to leave Monaco far behind. Scotland cruised later on finalizing a stunning win at the end. Alasdair Fraser knocked down 26 points for Scotland. Buchan added 15 points for the winners. Rosenal answered with 10 points for Monaco. Mereto had 8 points and 5 boards in a losing effort. Scottish U16 Team outrebounded their counterparts 42:25. Scotland also forced Monaco to 36 turnovers and limited them to 27% accuracy from the field. Scotland converted 54% of field goals and committed only 13 turnovers down the stretch. Scottish team will next face Wales. Monaco will look for the first win against Malta later tonight. Two teams will advance to the semifinal stage from the group.

Scotland U16: Alasdair Fraser 26, Cameron Buchan 15
Monaco U16: Robert Rosenal 10, Alberto Mereto 8

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  SERBIA   


Dusko Savanovic in Cajasol Sevilla - by Zoran Popovic
After two seasons in Unics Kazan Dusko Savanovic (204-F/C-83, agency: Beo Basket) signed contract with Cajasol Sevilla. With Unics Kazan Savanovic played ULEB Cup semifinal 2007 and quarterfinal 2008, Russian National cup final 2007 and 2008, Russian Superleague finalist 2007. In ULEB Cup for Unics Savanovic scored 11.2Pts, 3.9Reb, 1.5Ast and in Russian league 11Pts, 4.7Reb and 1.6Ast per game.

In his career he played for Zeleznik Workers, KK Borac Cacak and FMP Zeleznik Beograd. In season 2005-2006 he won Adriatic league with FMP Zeleznik Beograd.

Serbian basketball association decided: Serbian A standings with 14 clubs - by Zoran Popovic
By decision of Serbian basketball association Managament, Swisslion Serbian league will be extended from 12 to 14 clubs. According with this decision BC Zdravlje Actavis and BC Ergonom wouldn`t go in B league, they will keep status same as this season. The season 2008-2009 will be played with 14 clubs and two worst qualified will be transfered in lower rang, B Serbian league. The Super league and play-off system will be the same and Managament didn`t discussed about that.

Jaric in Memphis Grizzlies - by Zoran Popovic
Marko Jaric (198-G-78) will join Darko Milicic and play in Memphis Grizzlies next season. Jaric is a part of big trade between Minnesota Timberwolves and Memphis Grizzlies. Together with Jaric in Memphis are traded third pick O.J. Mayo, Antoine Walker and Greg Buckner, and in the same time in Minnesota are going fifth pick Kevin Love, Mike Miller, Brian Cardinal and Jason Collins.

Jaric, a six-year veteran, owns career averages of 7.8 Pts, 2.9Reb and 3.9Ast in 394 career games (221 starts) with the Los Angeles Clippers and Minnesota. In his last season for Minnesota Timberwolves Jaric scored 8.3Pts, 3.0Reb and 4.1Ast in 75 games (56 starts).

Pekovic 31th, Dragicevic 53th at NBA Draft - by Nenad Ilijev
Two Serbians were picked in second round of NBA Draft which was held last night. New player of Panathinaikos Athens Nikola Pekovic (210-C-86, agency: Beo Basket) was 31.pick as Minnesota Timberwolves choosed him as first pick in second round. Red Star's forward Tadija Dragicevic (205-F-86, agency: Beo Basket) was choosen by Utah Jazz in second round at No. 53 pick. Pekovic declared that he has no interest in NBA so far while Dragicevic was in the States after end of this season for some pre-draft workouts but due knee injury he couldnt get it done.

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  SLOVENIA   


Spurs pick Dragic and trade him to Suns - by Zeljko Zule

The San Antonio Spurs drafted NT member Goran Dragic (194-G-86, agency: Interperformances) of Union Olimpija with the 45th pick, but he has been traded to the Phoenix Suns for Malik Hairston (198-G-87) and the Suns' 2009 second round pick.

Dragic made his professional debut with Ilirija in the Slovenian minor leagues (Division II) before being promoted to Slovenia's top league with Slovan in 2004-05. Also spent the 2005-06 season with Slovan before moving on to play a season in Spain with Polaris World Murcia. Returned to Slovenia in 2007-08 with Union Olimpija.



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  TURKEY   


BBL 16 teams again - by Sinan Can
TURKISH Basketball Federation Executive Board announced that Beko Basketball League will be played with 16 teams in 2008-09 season. There had been some rumours that number of the tesams in the league will be extended to 18 as Federation denied it by the statement telling that, Turkish basketball had a decent and competitive season in 2007-08 and it's best to keep team number at 16. More than that, Turkish teams which will compete in European cups are announced too. Efes Pilsen and Fenerbahce Ulker will stay in Euro League as Besiktas Cola Turka, Galatasaray Cafe Crown and Turk Telekom will be Uleb Cup teams like last year. Banvit and Antalya Buyuksehir Belediyespor will play at FIBA Europe Cup.

Semih Erden and Omer Asik get drafted - by Eurobasket News
Both Turkish centers to take part in the NBA Draft were selected in the second round of the lottery yesterday. Omer Asik (211-C-86) was selected by the Portland Trail Blazers under the 36th overall number. However Omer Asik was immediately sent to Chicago in exchange for two future second-round picks. The 22-year-old center spent two seasons playing for Alpella Istanbul. He moved to Fenerbahce in December 2007. There Asik averaged 7.8 points and 5.5 boards per game in Euroleague.
Meanwhile Semih Erden (211-C-87) was picked under the 60th overall number. He was drafted by the reigning leagues champions Boston Celtics. The 21-year-old talent also played in Fenerbahce in the last season. There he averaged 6.7 points and 4.3 boards per game in Euroleague. In June 2008 Semih Erden participated in Reebeok Eurocamp in Treviso, Italy. He played for the Turkish National Team at the 2007 European championship in Spain. There Erden scored 1.0 points and grabbed 1.0 boards per game.
Turkish guard Hakan Demirel (192-G-85, agency: Court Side) went undrafted in the lottery.

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  UNITED KINGDOM   


Basketball Competition Manager appointed - by Sandy Sutherland
Former Scotland captain and Portobello High School FP Joanna Sutherland has been appointed as the London 2012 Organising Committees Competition Manager for Basketball.
She will be responsible for all the planning, organisation and management of the Olympic Basketball and Wheelchair Basketball events in 2012. The Olympic Basketball events take place in the Olympic Park and at the North Greenwich Arena 1 in Greenwich. Wheelchair Basketball events take place in the Olympic Park and the North Greenwich Arena 1.
Commenting on her appointment, Joanna said: Im honoured to be given the opportunity to help showcase Basketball and Wheelchair Basketball at the London Olympic Games and Paralympic Games. The Games are a terrific chance for Basketball in the UK to start realising some of its potential and I look forward to contributing to that process my only regret is that I wont be playing in the Games themselves!
FIBA (the International Basketball Federation) Secretary General and International Olympic Committee member Patrick Baumann said: FIBA is very pleased with the appointment of Joanna Sutherland as Competition Manager for Basketball. Her basketball knowledge and experience in working with FIBA, FIBA Europe and our member national federations at both FIBA Continental and World Championships will put her in good standing for this vital and very important position. We look forward to working with her to make Basketball once again one of the top sports at the Olympic Games in London in 2012.
Malcolm Tarkenter, Chairman of the Great Britain Wheelchair Basketball Association, said: We congratulate Joanna on her appointment and wish her good luck. We are excited that the London Organising Committee is following the example set in Sydney of the same competition manager being responsible for the delivery of both events. Joannas role is central to the realisation of our goals, not only for our athletes, but for all of our officials and volunteers who will be striving over the next few years to be part of London 2012.
Joannas key responsibilities include the overseeing of all aspects of the Basketball competition and to be the focal point for liaison with the International Basketball Federation and the International Wheelchair Basketball Federation. She will ensure that the competition is organised in accordance with international federation regulations, the International Olympic Committee Charter and the Host City Contract. Joanna will liaise with other functional areas to ensure the coordinated delivery of support services such as accreditation, venue operations, medical services and volunteers.
Joanna will travel to the Beijing Games to see what lessons can be learned from the Basketball and Wheelchair Basketball events there. She will initially take up her post on a part-time basis, becoming full time towards the end of 2009.
Joanna, a native of Edinburgh, has been working in international sport, primarily basketball, for the last ten years. Having graduated in Law and French from Edinburgh University, Joanna joined the International Basketball Federation (FIBA) in Munich in 1998 and gained considerable experience in both the Competitions and Media Departments before moving to assist in the organisation of the 2002 European Athletics Championships, also in Munich. Rejoining FIBA Europe, Joanna soon had a key role in the delivery of major events, notably EuroBasket 2005 (the 2005 European Championship for Men) in Serbia and Montenegro and EuroBasket Women 2005 in Turkey. As a result, she was invited to join the Spanish Basketball Federation in Madrid as Operations Director of EuroBasket 2007 which later received the accolade of being FIBAs most successfully marketed event to date. Still an active player, Joanna also captained British Universities and was Scotlands Player of the Year in 1998.


Welsh U16 Team dominates the European Championship in Division C opener - by Eurobasket News
Wales U16 - Malta U16 78:20

Welsh U16 National Team got to a flying start of their European Championship in Division C campaign. They held off Maltese counterparts for the first win at the tournament. The game turned into a one-sided traffic with Welsh thumping their opponents. The teams got to a slow start of the game with Trotman and Hinchliffe giving Wales a 10:3 lead at the end of the starting period. Wales went on a 12:0 run in the second quarter to clear off to a 25:7 mark. Coleman capped the first half with 3 points to give Welsh side a 30:8 lead at the interval. Adams and Owen teamed up for 10 unanswered points late in the third stanza as Wales accumulated a 48:10 advantage. Wales kept on piling point untamed in the final minutes. They breezed to an easy victory at the end toppling the ladder in preliminary Group B. Hinchlife secured 18 points and 15 boards for Wales. Kilmartin added 10 points for the winners. Bugeja led Malta with 7 points in defeat. Wales had an outstanding dominance in all game components. They outrebounded their opponents 64:32 and forced those to unbelievable 52 turnovers. Maltese team also shot only 17% from the field. Wales answered with 38% accuracy from the field. Malta will try to rebound against Monaco today. Wales takes on Scotland today.

Wales U16: Michael Hinchlife 18+15 boards, Alex Kilmartin 10
Malta U16: David Bugeja 7

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  WBA   


Last WBA results - by Gianni Pascucci
Buford Magic @ Decatur Court Kings 6/22/08

Buford Magic 91 : Stat Leaders: #11 Jacob Frazier- 29pts, 9reb, #3 Will Belton- 13pts, 8reb, 10asst, 5stl, #22 B.J Puckett- 13pts, 10reb, #34 James St.Roberts- 11pts, 6reb
Decatur Court Kings 96 : Stat Leaders: #32 Anthony Pig Miller- 28pts, 15reb, 5asst, 3stl, #10 Al Stewart- 28pts, 7reb, 7asst, #3 Ken McKenzie- 13pts, 3reb, #9 Dele Ojo- 10pts, 6reb
The energy was high as the top two teams faced each other. Buford jumped out early on Decatur, proving they came prepared for a fight. Magics #11 Jacob Frazier caused match up problems for Decatur and wasted no time getting his game off, lighting up the Court Kings every chance he got. He led Buford to a 43-41 lead at the half with 19pts and 6reb. #3 Will Belton contributed to the match up problems as well, defending Decaturs guards aggressively. Beltons defensive effort earned him 5reb and 4stl to go along with 6asst by halftime. Buford seemed to have Decatur right where they wanted them going into the second half but Decatur came out strong in the third quarter. After leading Decatur with 13pts at the half, #10 Al Stewart continued his offensive attack, shooting 3/3 from 3pt range, and #32 Pig Miller showed his versatility by knocking down his second 3pt shot for the game, to help Decatur clench the lead. The Court Kings would also convert on 12 of 15 free throw shots in the third to take a 73-66 lead. The Magic continued to play physical against the Court Kings, and would lose #23 Markeal King and #5 Mike Griffin to foul trouble. Decatur led by as much as 11 in the fourth but struggled to knock down their free throws, allowing Buford to make a come back to within two points. Then, Al Stewart converted on 3/4 free throws in the final seconds to secure the win.
Quarter scores:
1st: Buford 27, Decatur 19
2nd: Buford 43, Decatur 41
3rd: Buford 66, Decatur 73
4th: Buford 91, Decatur 96

Memphis Tornadoes @ Decatur Court Kings 6/20

Memphis Tornadoes 107 : Stat Leaders: #15 Cedrick Lewis- 34pts, 2reb, 3asst, #21 Anthony Neely- 21pts, 5asst, 1reb, #44 Steve Eluett- 20pts, 5reb, #30 Lorenzo Dorse- 14pts, 12reb, 7blk, 3asst
Decatur Court Kings 128 : Stat Leaders: #32 Anthony Pig Miller- 27pts, 18reb, 6asst, #10 Al Stewart- 24pts, 6asst, 4reb, #9 Dele Ojo- 18pts, 10asst, 7reb, #17 Isaac Cook- 18pts, 6/9 from 3pt range
With two key additions to their line up in #23 Tony Carr and #44 Steve Eluett from the Tri-City Crusaders, Memphis came ready to play against No.1 seed Decatur. Memphis got out to a strong start in the first as Decatur struggled to knock down their shots. #15 Cedrick Lewis had the hot hand for Memphis and seemed to be unstoppable with 14pts at the half. Their new additions, Carr & Eluett crashed the boards well along with #30 Lorenzo Dorse, combining for 15 at the half. After being down the first quarter, the Court Kings would take the lead 56-49 at the half but none of the Court Kings had more than 10 points. Pig Miller had 10pts, 6reb but teammates Isaac Cook (9pts), Al Stewart (10pts), and Dele Ojo (9pts,7asst) picked up their equal share of the slack. Memphis Cedrick Lewis continued to cause match up problems in the second half and easily earned his 34pts against Decatur, but the Court Kings came out strong in the third and their defense proved to be too much for the Tornadoes. Al Stewart would have to sit much of the third due to foul trouble but gave a great performance in the fourth to help shut down Memphis. Pig Miller gave a stellar performance in the second half to finish with 27pts, and 18reb for the game. This was a great team performance by the Court Kings with seven players scoring in double figures.
Quarter scores:
1st: Memphis 27, Decatur 23
2nd: Memphis 49, Decatur 56
3rd: Memphis 78, Decatur 92
4th: Memphis 107, Decatur 128

Written by : Meisha Stevenson

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  WCBPL   


WCPBL Awards announced - by Gianni Pascucci
The West Coast Pro Basketball League Commissioner Jim Parks announced the 2008 Awards recognizing outstanding achievements for both Executives and Players, participating members for the WCBL inaugural season just completed.

Most Valuable Player-Regular Season: Josh Merrill (6'9''-F-74, college: UCSB) Santa Barbara Breakers

Coach of the Year-Regular Season: Co-Winners: Patrick Davis -Ventura Jets and Ron Meikle -Carlsbad BeachDawgs

Rookie of the Year: Ryan Read (6'3''-G-84, agency: Passing Lane) Carlsbad BeachDawgs

Most Improved Player: Jermaine Small (6'8''-F-77, college: Iona) Ventura Jets

Executive of the Year: Co-Winners: Andre Cobbs -High Desert Rattlers and Rob Robinson -Pasadena Slam

Sportsmanship Award: Mike Garrett (6'3''-G-77, college: San Jose St.) High Desert Rattlers

Defensive Player of the Year: Rashid Byrd (7'0''-C-81, college: E.Oklahoma St. JC) Santa Barbara Breakers

Sixth Man Award: Ryan Read Carlsbad BeachDawgs

Best Media Interviewer Award: Tim Taylor Santa Barbara Breakers

Community Relations Award: Allan Purnell (6'4''-G-82, college: Pacific) Santa Barbara Breakers, Shantay Legans (5'10''-G-81, agency: Court Side, college: Fresno St.) Santa Barbara Breakers, Jermaine Small Ventura Jets, Mark Peters (5'11''-G-81, college: Cal-Riverside) Santa Barbara Breakers, Johnnie Parker (6'8''-F-78, college: Missouri) Hollywood Shooting Stars

Playoff MVP: Josh Merrill Santa Barbara Breakers

Bill Bertka Playoff Coach Award: Curt Pickering Santa Barbara Breakers



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Women News

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  AUSTRALIA - Women  


Bevilaqua recorded 46 minutes for Indiana - by Eurobasket News
Tully Bevilaqua (164-G-72) recorded 46 minutes for her Indiana Fever last night. The New York Liberty however needed three extra periods to overcome the Indiana 102:96. The fans at the Madison Square Garden contemplated one of the most gripping performances of the season as the Liberty prevailed against the Fever in the third overtime. Janel McCarville notched career-high 31 points to pace the hosts to a dramatic victory. Shameka Christon was helpful with 23 points including 6 in the third overtime. Indiana answered with career-high digits from Ebony Hoffman and Tammy Sutton-Brown. Hoffman secured 26 points in defeat. The Liberty were down by 13 points in the second quarter and managed to rally from behind to force extra time. Catherine Kraayeveld hit a three-pointer with 6 seconds left in regulation to force first overtime. Tamika Catchings put the visitors up for 2 points with 4 seconds in the first extra term. However the Liberty survived as Janel McCarville hit a freebie to send teams into the second extra period. The teams combined for just 4 points in the second overtime as Tammy Sutton-Brown capped it with a layup to force the third overtime. Shameka Christon and Moore gave the hosts a 100:96 lead and the Fever never recovered. Tully Bevilaqua ended up with 4 points, 5 assists and 4 steals.
In the previous game Australian player collected 11 points, 4 rebounds and 4 steals against Sacramento. The Fever used a 7-0 run midway through the third quarter to cut the deficit to 50:48, and they closed to 58:57 on Tamika Catchings' two free throws. Fever won 78:73 as Ebony Hoffman has embraced her role as one of the Indiana Fever's go-to players this season.
Candace Parker provided 22 points, 11 boards and 3 blocks to lead the Los Angeles Sparks past Seattle at the Staples Center. The Sparks rookie dunked in the second straight game and the hosts rolled to a 76:62 victory at the end. Delisha Milton-Jones added 19 points in the 10th win for the Sparks. Sue Bird paced the Storm with 11 points. Australian Lauren Jackson (196-F/C-81) was held to 10 points as

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  CAMEROON - Women  


RAMSES LONLACK NIMPA have sign at Menphis university - by Gilles Bouwe
Ramses Lonlack-Nimpa, was a three-year varsity member of the Stoneleigh-Burnham School in Greenfield, Mass. A three-sport star in basketball, soccer, and lacrosse, the 5'8 guard leaves Stoneleigh Burnham as the school's all-time leading scorer and the only 1,000-point scorer in school history. While playing under head coach Darell Tibbles, she accumulated 1,091 points in just two-and-a-half years. The two-time New England Preparatory School Athletic Council (NEPSAC) All-Star averaged 27 points, 15 rebounds, and seven steals per game as a senior during 2007-08. She won five MVP honors at SBS, and was an all-star in both basketball and soccer for each of the past two seasons.

'Ramses is an extremely athletic guard that will be a defensive specialist and stopper for us,' McFerrin said. 'She will also be a very capabable transition player in our system.'
This is a good news for cameroonian basketball this increase our chance to have a good national team.

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  CANADA - Women  


Sutton-Brown recorded with 23 points and 15 boards - by Eurobasket News
Tammy Sutton-Brown (193-C-78, college: Rutgers) recorded with 23 points and 15 boards for her Indiana Fever last night. The New York Liberty however needed three extra periods to overcome the Indiana 102:96. The fans at the Madison Square Garden contemplated one of the most gripping performances of the season as the Liberty prevailed against the Fever in the third overtime. Janel McCarville notched career-high 31 points to pace the hosts to a dramatic victory. Shameka Christon was helpful with 23 points including 6 in the third overtime. Indiana answered with career-high digits from Ebony Hoffman and Tammy Sutton-Brown. Hoffman secured 26 points in defeat. The Liberty were down by 13 points in the second quarter and managed to rally from behind to force extra time. Catherine Kraayeveld hit a three-pointer with 6 seconds left in regulation to force first overtime. Tamika Catchings put the visitors up for 2 points with 4 seconds in the first extra term. However the Liberty survived as Janel McCarville hit a freebie to send teams into the second extra period. The teams combined for just 4 points in the second overtime as Tammy Sutton-Brown capped it with a layup to force the third overtime. Shameka Christon and Moore gave the hosts a 100:96 lead and the Fever never recovered.
In the previous game Canadian player collected 8 points, 6 rebounds and 3 blocks against Sacramento. The Fever used a 7-0 run midway through the third quarter to cut the deficit to 50:48, and they closed to 58:57 on Tamika Catchings' two free throws. Fever won 78:73 as Ebony Hoffman has embraced her role as one of the Indiana Fever's go-to players this season.

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  D.R. CONGO - Women  


Ngoyisa's latest games - by Eurobasket News
Bernadette Ngoyisa (195-C-82) and her Indiana Fever struggled a lot last night in WNBA. The New York Liberty however needed three extra periods to overcome the Indiana 102:96. The fans at the Madison Square Garden contemplated one of the most gripping performances of the season as the Liberty prevailed against the Fever in the third overtime. Janel McCarville notched career-high 31 points to pace the hosts to a dramatic victory. Shameka Christon was helpful with 23 points including 6 in the third overtime. Indiana answered with career-high digits from Ebony Hoffman and Tammy Sutton-Brown. Hoffman secured 26 points in defeat. The Liberty were down by 13 points in the second quarter and managed to rally from behind to force extra time. Catherine Kraayeveld hit a three-pointer with 6 seconds left in regulation to force first overtime. Tamika Catchings put the visitors up for 2 points with 4 seconds in the first extra term. However the Liberty survived as Janel McCarville hit a freebie to send teams into the second extra period. The teams combined for just 4 points in the second overtime as Tammy Sutton-Brown capped it with a layup to force the third overtime. Shameka Christon and Moore gave the hosts a 100:96 lead and the Fever never recovered.
In the previous game player from Congo nailed 2 points and made 2 rebounds against Sacramento. She showed 100% from the free throw line making 2/2. The Fever used a 7-0 run midway through the third quarter to cut the deficit to 50:48, and they closed to 58:57 on Tamika Catchings' two free throws. Fever won 78:73 as Ebony Hoffman has embraced her role as one of the Indiana Fever's go-to players this season.
Los Angeles Sparks outlasted the Indiana Fever 77:63 at the Staples Center. The game was highlighted by the second dunk in the WNBA history. Candace Parker followed the path of her teammate Lisa Leslie when she dribbled the court for a dunk with 29 seconds remaining in the contest. Leslie was the first player to dunk the ball in a WNBA game. Candace Parker provided 10 points, 10 boards and 4 blocks to help the Sparks improve to 9-3 record. Delisha Mitlon-Jones and Temeka Johnson had 10 points each for the winners. Tamika Catchings started for the Fever for the first time in the season and dropped 17 points in defeat. Bernadette Ngoyisa had a good game with 5 points and 4 rebounds.

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  GERMANY - Women  


Herne signs Flasarova - by Cornelius Damm
Immediately after signing Katja Zberch the 2007/08 1.DBBL newcomer Herner TC announced the arrival of another DBBL top player. After two seasons with BBV Leipzig Eagles Czech player Katarina Flasarova (170-G-85) will extend her career in Germany at Herner TC. Last season she averaged 16.1 PPG for the Eagles and also won the three point contest at the traditional Season Opening in Marburg. According to rumours her good friend Anna Adlerova (181-G/F-85) is expected to join her too.

Herne signs Flasarova - by Cornelius Damm


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  ITALY - Women  


Masciadri's latest three games - by Eurobasket News
Raffaella Masciadri (185-F-80) averages now 6.9 points per game and saw two wins and 1 loss in the last three games. At first Los Angeles Sparks outlasted the Indiana Fever 77:63 at the Staples Center. The game was highlighted by the second dunk in the WNBA history. Candace Parker followed the path of her teammate Lisa Leslie when she dribbled the court for a dunk with 29 seconds remaining in the contest. Leslie was the first player to dunk the ball in a WNBA game. Candace Parker provided 10 points, 10 boards and 4 blocks to help the Sparks improve to 9-3 record. Delisha Mitlon-Jones and Temeka Johnson had 10 points each for the winners. Tamika Catchings started for the Fever for the first time in the season and dropped 17 points in defeat. The Fever slipped to 6-6 record. Raffaella Masciadri ended up with 8 points and 4 rebounds.
Candace Parker provided 22 points, 11 boards and 3 blocks to lead the Los Angeles Sparks past Seattle at the Staples Center. The Sparks rookie dunked in the second straight game and the hosts rolled to a 76:62 victory at the end. Delisha Milton-Jones added 19 points in the 10th win for the Sparks. Sue Bird paced the Storm with 11 points. Raffaella Masciadri posted 4 points, made 1 assist and 1 rebound. Lauren Jackson was held to 10 points as the visitors fell to 8-7 record in the ladder.
The Washington Mystics beat the Los Angeles Sparks 77:74 at the Staples Center in overtime story. Monique Currie came up with 24 points to lead the Mystics to their 6th win in the season. She nailed a three-pointer with under two minutes left in extra period to bring victory to the Mystics. The Sparks failed to score in overtime and suffered their 4th loss. Alana Beard had 17 points for the winners. Candace Parker led the Sparks with 17 points. Raffaella Masciadri finished the night with 7 points and 2 rebounds.

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  LITHUANIA - Women  


Turkey U18 edge Lithuanian counterparts in exhibition contest - by Eurobasket News
Turkey U18 - Lithuania U18 76:72

European U18 teams continue their preparation for the upcoming European championship. Turkish U18 National Team yesterday outlasted their Lithuanian opponents in a friendly game. Lithuania got to a better start to the game. They dominated in the starting period and rolled to a 22:18 lead at the first intermission. The Baltic team did not loosen the grip in the second stanza. They maintained the pressure and stretched the margin to as many as 7 points at the interval. But Turkey changed the complexion of the game after the long break. They raised the tempo and denied the deficit. Turkey outscored Lithuania 25:14 in the third frame to enter the final quarter ahead by 4 points. The teams then kept it close throughout the fourth quarter with neither side able to capitalize. Turkey however wisely kept Lithuanian side at bay and pulled a narrow victory at the end. Yasemen Saylar (174-G-90) dropped 13 points to pace Turkey. Duygu Firat (189-F-90) chipped in 12 points, while Ozge Yavas (170-G-91) added 10 for the winners. Giedre Paugaite (192-C-90) answered with 19 points for Lithuania. Aurime Rinkeviciute (180-F/G-90) had 15 points, while Lina Pikcuite canned 11 in a losing effort.

Turkey U18: Yasemen Saylar 13, Duygu Firat 12, Ozge Yavas 10
Lithuania U18: Giedre Paugaite 19, Aurime Rinkeviciute 15, Lina Pikciute (188-F-90) 11

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  NCAA1 - Women  


Kansas State opens European tour with win - by Eurobasket News
Kansas State - Czech Republic U18 86:66

Kansas State womens basketball team celebrated a comfortable victory over Czech Republic U18 National Team in their European tour opener. The Wildcats will spend ten days in Europe. The journey will include stops in Czech Republic, Slovakia and Austria. The Big 12 champions got to an impressive start as they left no chance for Czech side in Hradec Kralove. Five Kansas State players scored in double figures en route to a solid win. Ashley Sweat (6'2''-F-87) canned with 20 points 15 of them coming in the first half. The hosts kept it close in the first period and surged ahead for a 21:20 at the end of it. The teams traded baskets throughout the second period before Shalin Spani (5'11''-G) nailed a three-pointer and Ashley Sweat dropped a jumper for the Wildcats 42:39 advantage at halftime. Marlies Gipson (6'0''-F-87) took over in the third period. She canned 9 straight points and the Wildcats jumped ahead 53:46. Czech team however kept it at a striking distance as they clipped the deficit to 3 points 58:61 with a quarter to go. But the hosts obviously ran out of steam in the final period. Kansas State raised the tempo and eased to an overall victory at the end. Marlies Gipson knocked down 16 points and collected 12 boards for the winners. Shalee Lehning (5'9''-G-86) and Kari Kincaid (5'10''-G) had 13 points apiece, while Kelsey Nelson (5'9''-G) dropped 12 in a win. Kansas State resume the action on Saturday when they take on Czech Republic U20 National Team.

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  SCOTLAND - Women  


Coach Birch names seven new caps in Final 12 for Scotland Senior Women - by Sandy Sutherland
Scotland coach Shirley Birch has named seven new caps in her final 12 for the senior women's Euro C Championship in Luxembourg beginning a week on Monday.
But she has been forced to omit arguably her best two players Marie Buchan (Falkirk Fury) and Rose Anderson (175-G-88) (Edinburgh Kool Kats), sister of Commonwealth boxing gold medallist Kenny Andersn, who are both likely to be on duty for the Great Britain under-20 team preparing for the Euro B Championship at that time.
However she has chosen another GB squad member Anderson's clubmate Annie Rowan (173-G-90) subject to the final selection.
Like her men's equivalent Iain Maclean, who steered Scotland to the Euro C bronze medals in Edinburgh last weekend, Birch has named seven new caps: Gillian Baird (Falkirk Fury), Rowan Bell (Edinburgh Kool Kats), Rebecca Cumming (193-F-90), Paula Schweikart, Nadele Strain (170-G-88) (all St Mirren), Heather Holmyard (Polonia Phoenix), Emily Leonard (168) (Heatherow Acers)
The others are Natalie Chaloner (177-F-86) (St Mirren), Siobhan Moore (185-C-87) (Bridgeport Univ, USA), Leanne Page (Polonia Phoenix), Annie Rowan FC Martinec, Barcelona).

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  TURKEY - Women  


Turkey U18 edge Lithuanian counterparts in exhibition contest - by Eurobasket News
Turkey U18 - Lithuania U18 76:72

European U18 teams continue their preparation for the upcoming European championship. Turkish U18 National Team yesterday outlasted their Lithuanian opponents in a friendly game. Lithuania got to a better start to the game. They dominated in the starting period and rolled to a 22:18 lead at the first intermission. The Baltic team did not loosen the grip in the second stanza. They maintained the pressure and stretched the margin to as many as 7 points at the interval. But Turkey changed the complexion of the game after the long break. They raised the tempo and denied the deficit. Turkey outscored Lithuania 25:14 in the third frame to enter the final quarter ahead by 4 points. The teams then kept it close throughout the fourth quarter with neither side able to capitalize. Turkey however wisely kept Lithuanian side at bay and pulled a narrow victory at the end. Yasemen Saylar (174-G-90) dropped 13 points to pace Turkey. Duygu Firat (189-F-90) chipped in 12 points, while Ozge Yavas (170-G-91) added 10 for the winners. Giedre Paugaite (192-C-90) answered with 19 points for Lithuania. Aurime Rinkeviciute (180-F/G-90) had 15 points, while Lina Pikcuite canned 11 in a losing effort.

Turkey U18: Yasemen Saylar 13, Duygu Firat 12, Ozge Yavas 10
Lithuania U18: Giedre Paugaite 19, Aurime Rinkeviciute 15, Lina Pikciute (188-F-90) 11

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  WNBA - Women  


Three-overtime drama at Madison Square Garden - by Eurobasket News
The New York Liberty needed three extra periods to overcome the Indiana Fever 102:96 yesterday. The fans at the Madison Square Garden contemplated one of the most gripping performances of the season as the Liberty prevailed against the Fever in the third overtime. Janel McCarville (6'2''-C-82, college: Minnesota) notched career-high 31 points to pace the hosts to a dramatic victory. Shameka Christon (6'1''-G/F-82, college: Arkansas) was helpful with 23 points including 6 in the third overtime. Indiana answered with career-high digits from Ebony Hoffman (6'2''-C/F-82, college: USC) and Tammy Sutton-Brown (6'4''-C-78, college: Rutgers). Hoffman secured 26 points, while Sutton-Brown added 23 points and 15 boards in defeat. The Liberty were down by 13 points in the second quarter and managed to rally from behind to force extra time. Catherine Kraayeveld hit a three-pointer with 6 seconds left in regulation to force first overtime. Tamika Catchings put the visitors up for 2 points with 4 seconds in the first extra term. However the Liberty survived as Janel McCarville hit a freebie to send teams into the second extra period. The teams combined for just 4 points in the second overtime as Tammy Sutton-Brown capped it with a layup to force the third overtime. Shameka Christon and Moore gave the hosts a 100:96 lead and the Fever never recovered.
The Washington Mystics beat the Los Angeles Sparks 77:74 at the Staples Center in another yesterdays overtime story. Monique Currie (6'0''-G/F-83, agency: Ronsport, college: Duke) came up with 24 points to lead the Mystics to their 6th win in the season. She nailed a three-pointer with under two minutes left in extra period to bring victory to the Mystics. The Sparks failed to score in overtime and suffered their 4th loss. Alana Beard had 17 points for the winners. Candace Parker (6'4''-F/C-86, college: Tennessee) led the Sparks with 17 points. Lisa Leslie provided 16 points and 5 blocks in a losing case.

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