EUROBASKET NEWS REPORT - 6/6/2008

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Men News

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ABA

It's That Time Again - Fireball 2008 Playoffs -by Surujh Roopnarine

We all know that Basketball is a sport where the season never stops, between the NBA, European championships, US minor leagues and playgrounds across the world, basketball is a 24-hour, 365-day obsession for its fans. In the Mecca for playground basketball, New York City, this time of the year is always special as players of all calibers, from all walks of life gear up for 'Summertime in the City'. Legendary Holcomb Rucker Park will be filled with spectators this summer, there will be intensity hard found anywhere else at 'The Cage' at West 4th, and the creme de la creme will beat Hunter College in Harlem for Nike Pro City. Yet, before all of this can take place, the prologue (of ever increasing recognition) occurs every spring at Baruch College in Manhattan during Funsport Inc's Fireball, where NBA young guns like Nate Robinson (5'9''-G-84, college: Washington) match up with against collegiate stars like Chudney Gray (6'2''-G-78, college: St.John's) or Steve Burtt (6'1''-G-84, college: Iona), while hardened veterans like John Wallace (6'8''-F-74, college: Syracuse) and Charles Jones (6'3''-G-75, college: LIU Brooklyn) can match up against playground legends like John Strickland (6'8''-F/C-72, college: Hawaii-Pacific), William 'BJ' McFarland (6'7''-F-76, college: St.Thomas Aquinas), Raphael Edwards (6'7''-F-75, college: E.Carolina) (6'7''-F-75, college: E.Carolina) and Mike Campbell (6'6''-G/F-75, college: LIU Brooklyn). Whether you play in the D-League, Euroleague, ABA, NBA or have never played professionally, the summer is the time where you can prove yourself and make an impact on the minds of the harshest critics and fans of basketball around, New York City.
Concluding a seven-game regular season that tipped off in April, this weekend will mark the start of the one-and-done playoffs with the Championship game being contested on Sunday, June 8th. Regular season champs NYAC led by former St. Peter's and Icelandic Express All-Defensive stalwart Nate Brown (6'0''-G-80, college: St.Peter's), went undefeated and are this year's version of the Detroit Pistons, i.e.; team basketball. They will face an arguably more talented (on paper) Gun Hill squad led by former Strong Island Sound guard Aaron 'The Problem' Williams (6'2''-G-82, college: Delaware St.) and former St. John's guard Chudney Gray. In the 2v3 matchup we have the star-studded GCD, headlined by NBA players Nate Robinson and Smush Parker (6'4''-G-81, college: Fordham) along with young studs Kemba Walker (6'0''-G) and Quinton Hosley (6'6''-G/F-84, college: Fresno St.) (Turkey), and the 7'3' Shagari Alleyne (7'3''-C-84, college: Manhattan) (formerly of Kentucky and Manhattan) to mesh with veteran forces like Charles Jones, John Wallace and John Strickland. Their opponents, led by one of the most boisterous and successful coaches in the playground circuit, Rah, will boast an intimidating frontline in Garnett Thompson (6'10''-F/C-80, college: Providence), Mark McCarroll (6'10''-F/C-80, college: Pittsburgh) and William 'BJ' McFarland. If their unheralded, yet productive guards (Phil Grant (6'8''-G/F-79, agency: R.H.Consultancy, college: Iona), Brian Woodward (6'3''-G-81, college: Rhode Island), and Speedy Williams) contend with the NBA talent of GCD, Sean Bell will have a good shot at pulling off the upset.
As the first big-time tournament of the spring/summer season in New York, many teams bided their time in the regular season hoping that late acquisitions from overseas would be back home to help fuel a playoff run. While many teams did find the support they were waiting for, it came too little too late. To this point, big time names like Kenny Satterfield (6'2''-G-81, college: Cincinnati), Antawn Dobie, Raphael Edwards , Mike Campbell, Woody Souffrant (6'1''-G-83, college: Hofstra) and Mike Michael Haynes (6'8''-G/F-81, college: Fordham) will be sitting on the sidelines for the playoffs. Regardless, this weekend will be sure to provide just as many thrills and excitement (if not more) than the hotly contested regular season. 'Summertime in the City'... Gotta love it!

2008 FIREBALL LEAGUE HONOR ROLL
* REGULAR SEASON MVP: Nate Brown (6'0''-G-80, college: St.Peter's) (NYAC)
* DEFENSIVE PLAYER OF THE YEAR: SHAKIM HALL (RACK ATTACK)
* NEWCOMER OF THE YEAR: J.C. Mathis (6'9''-F-82, college: Michigan) (NYAC)
* 6TH MAN OF THE YEAR: Jarrid Frye (6'3''-G-85, college: Sacred Heart) (FOOTPRINTZ)

FIRST TEAM ALL-FIREBALL (BASED ON AT LEAST 3GMS PLAYED)
1. Nate Brown (NYAC)
2. Smush Parker (6'4''-G-81, college: Fordham) (GCD)
3. Nate Robinson (5'9''-G-84, college: Washington) (GCD)
4. Garnett Thompson (6'10''-F/C-80, agency: Strategic Sports, college: Providence) (SEAN BELL/DDN)
5. Aaron Williams (6'2''-G-82, college: Delaware St.) (GUNHILL)

SECOND TEAM ALL-FIREBALL (BASED ON AT LEAST 3GMS PLAYED)
1. STIXX WILLIAMS (GCD)
2. BRYAN MATTHEWS (NYAC)
3. Raphael Edwards (6'7''-F-75, college: E.Carolina) (XMEN)
4. Jarrid Frye (FOOTPRINTZ)
5. J.C. Mathis (NYAC)

FIRST TEAM ALL-FIREBALL DEFENSE (BASED ON AT LEAST 3GMS PLAYED)
1. SHAKIM HALL (RACK ATTACK)
2. Shagari Alleyne (7'3''-C-84, college: Manhattan) (GCD)
3. Smush Parker (GCD)
4. Garnett Thompson (SEAN BELL/DDN)
5. Mark Sanders (6'7''-F-83, college: LIU Brooklyn) (GUNHILL)



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ADRIATIC LEAGUE

Eight participants of Balkan league are known -by Dragan Jankovski
Management board of Balkan International Basketball League decided to increase number of participants for the opening season. Instead of 10 teams they increased number to 12. Five countries will have their representatives in BIBL: Bulgaria, Serbia, FYR Macedonia, Greece and Romania.

Eight teams are already known until this moment. They are: Eurohold Varna, Levski Sofia, Strumica 2005, Feni Industri, Mega Aqua Monta, Swisslions Takovo, Dinamo Bucharest and Rapid Bucharest.

It is not known yet which two teams from Greece will take a place at the opening season of BIBL. Two more teams will get an invitation and they will probably be from FYR Macedonia (Rabotnicki) and Serbia.

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ALGERIA

algerian playoffs 1st round -by Foued Benhenni
here are the games of 1st round in those 2008 playoffs
the games will be all played in Harcha arena in Algiers downtown
thursday 5 june (1ST DAY)
13h00: CRB dar el beida-USMM HADJOUT
14H30: NA HUSSEIN DEY-OLYMPIC BATNA
16H00:ASPTT ALGIERS-WA BOUFARIK
17H30 NB STAOUELLI-MC ALGIERS
friday 6 june (2nd day)
09h30 OLYMPIC BATNA-ASPTT ALGIERS
11H00 USMM HADJOUT-WA BOUFARIK
16H00 MC ALGIERS-NA HUSSEIN DEY
17H30 CRB DAR EL BEIDA-NB STAOUELLI
the 2 most important games in this first round will be of course the rematch of 2007 finals between MCAlgiers and NB STAOUELLI,the algerian police will be renforced due to fight between the 2 teams fans during regular season
the second hottest game will be friday 6 june between the 2007 champion NB STAOUELLI and the second ranking of this 2008 playoffs which are CRB DAR EL BEIDA

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AUSTRALIA

Pacers shows interest in Aleks Maric -by Eurobasket News
Australian hot prospect Aleks Maric (211-C-84) demonstrated wonderful performance at the NBA's invitation-only official Pre-Draft Camp in Orlando. GM of Indiana Pacers David Morway confirmed interest of his team in Maric. He possibly could be the 41st pick on the next NBA draft.

Maric had 4 successful years at University of Nebraska. At his last season he averaged 15.7 ppg and 10.2 rpg for 33 games in NCAA. He was a member of Australian U18 and U21 National Team. With U18 NT he won World Championship in Greece on 2003. Since 2006 he is a member of Australian senior NT.

Boomers squad announced -by Eurobasket News

Following the conclusion of a five-day training camp at the AIS in Canberra, Basketball Australia has announced the 17 athletes selected to represent the Australian Boomers for five international matches in June.

Twenty athletes now remain in the squad for 12 Olympic berths, with the final team to be named by July 2nd.

Andrew Bogut awaits contract negotiations in the United States, David Andersen will enjoy a brief rest after returning from a grueling season in Russia while Nathan Jawai is fighting hard to keep his NBA dream alive and may not be back in Australia in time for selection.

'It was a good camp and no one did poorly,' Boomers head coach Brian Goorjian said.

'A lot of the decisions were positional and they were tough calls but we all agreed on what had to be done.'

'The players we released have contributed to the road ahead and we are appreciative of the efforts they have made.'

'It was a positive, intense, aggressive camp and now it's on to Perth and we're looking forward to playing some games.'

Peter Crawford (Perth Wildcats), Adam Gibson (Brisbane Bullets), Jacob Holmes (South Dragons), Matthew Knight (West Sydney Razorbacks), Alex Loughton (Perth Wildcats) and Luke Schenscher (Brose Basket, Germany) were the athletes shaved from the squad.

Europe-based stars Matt Nielsen, Brad Newley and Damien Ryan were unable to attend the AIS training camp but will join the Boomers in Perth.

The Boomers arrive in Perth on Tuesday (June 10) and play the first game of the 'Boomers World Challenge' against Iran on Monday June 16 at Challenge Stadium at 7:00pm.

Then it's on to Adelaide for game two (Distinctive Homes Dome on Wednesday June 18 at 7:30pm) and Melbourne for game three (State Netball Hockey Centre on Friday June 20 at 7:30pm).

The Boomers then head to Auckland to face the New Zealand Tall Blacks (North Shore Events Centre on Thursday June 26 at 7:30pm) before returning to 'The Cage' in Melbourne to play the second of two games for the Al Ramsay Shield (State Netball Hockey Centre on Saturday June 28 at 5:00pm).

A tour to Europe follows, with the Boomers departing Australia on Sunday June 29 for games in Croatia against Angola and the host nation and a tournament in Greece for games against Brazil, Croatia and the host nation.


Australian Boomers squad for June
(name, position, height, last club played with)

Chris ANSTEY / Centre / 213cm / Melbourne Tigers
David BARLOW / Guard / 205cm / Melbourne Tigers
CJ BRUTON / Guard / 188cm / Brisbane Bullets
James HARVEY / Guard / 196cm / Gold Coast Blaze
Wade HELLIWELL / Centre / 213cm / Nuova Sebastiani (Italy)
Russell HINDER /Forward / 208cm / Sydney Kings
Joe INGLES / Guard / 203cm / South Dragons
Luke KENDALL / Guard / 193cm / Sydney Kings
Darnell MEE / Guard / 198cm / Cairns Taipans
Patrick MILLS / Guard / 181cm / St. Mary's College Gaels (USA)
Brad NEWLEY / Guard / 198cm / Panionios (Greece)
Matthew NIELSEN / Forward / 209cm / Lietuvos Rytas (Lithuania)
Andrew OGILVY / Centre / 210cm / Vanderbilt University Commodores (USA)
Shawn REDHAGE / Forward / 203cm / Perth Wildcats
Damien RYAN / Guard / 193cm / Gruppo Triboldi (Italy)
Glen SAVILLE / Guard / 197cm / Sydney Kings
Mark WORTHINGTON / Forward / 202cm / Sydney Kings


The Australia Post Boomers match schedule for June:

AUSTRALIA v IRAN - BOOMERS WORLD CHALLENGE

Game 1 - Challenge Stadium in Perth
Monday 16 June at 7:00pm

Game 2 - Distinctive Homes Dome in Adelaide
Wednesday 18 June at 7:30pm

Game 3 - State Netball and Hockey Centre in Melbourne
Friday 20 June at 7.30pm


AUSTRALIA v NEW ZEALAND - AL RAMSAY SHIELD

Game 1 - North Shore Events Centre, Auckland
Thursday 26 June at 7:30pm

Game 2 - State Netball and Hockey Centre in Melbourne
Saturday 28 June at 5:00pm

Courtesy of nbl.com.au



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BAHAMAS

U18 National team to play at the Tournament of Americas -by Eurobasket News
The Bahamas U18 National team was invited to take part in the Tournament of Americas to be held in Argentina on July 14-20. The winner of the tournament will earn a ticket to the World Junior Championships. Bahamas were at the fourth spot at the Centro Basket tournament last season with three teams qualifying for the Americas event. However the Dominican Republic refused to participate and the Bahamas were officially given the available spot. The team's head coach Mario Bowleg announced the tryouts for the talented players all around the country. Some of the players will play at the Caribbean Basketball Confederation Championship from June 23 through June 29 in the Dominican Republic. There the Bahamas will be represented by U16 team.

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BERMUDAS

Paget Bear Cats dominate in PBL -by Eurobasket News
Paget Beat Cats are the top team at the Bermudas Premier Basketball League at the moment. They enjoy a top position in the league's ladder with 7-1 record. Recently the Paget Bear Cats overcame the Southampton Titans 73:43 for their 6th win. Chris Crumpler was impressive with game-high 32 points, 9 steals, 6 boards and 5 assists. He was trumped the PBL Player of the Week for the performance. He was well helped by Richard Warner with 13 points. Adam Correia answered with 10 points for the Titans. Later the Paget Bear Cats registered their 7th win knocking down St. George's International 64:53. It was the second loss for St. George's International at the tournament and they slipped to the third spot in the ladder.
The second spot is shared by the Hamilton Tsunamis and the Smith's Wild Cats. The Hamilton Tsunamis prevailed against the Warwick Rim Rockers 59:46 for their 5th win. Jonathan Noseworhty secured 22 points in a winning case. Lawrence Fox dropped 12 points in a winning case. Vernon Lambe replied with game-high 24 points for the Rim Rockers in a loss. The Hamilton Tsunamis extended their winning streak by beating the Southampton Titans 76:60 at the weekend.
Meanwhile the Smith's Wild Cats were narrowly beaten by the St. George's International 58:59 for the second loss in the campaign. Steven Simons (-82) poured in game-high 21 points for the Wild Cats but it did not prevent them from falling short at the end. Charjuan Knight paced the International with 20 points.
There is one more week left in regualr season action.

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CAMEROON

Luc Richard Mbah a Moute: His quest for the NBA -by Cyril Empig

Luc Richard Mbah a Moute (200-G/F-88), the Yaounde, Cameroon native and an incoming senior at UCLA, is currently at an NBA Pre-Draft Camp in Orlando, Florida, USA, trying to showcase his skills in front of NBA coaches and scouts. Luc hopes to impress the 'powers-that-be' enough and hear that an NBA team will choose him during the upcoming NBA draft this summer. Luc had expressed his thought that if he has the sense that he is guaranteed being drafted 'at the very least' in the second round, he will not return to UCLA and will go forward into the NBA. The first round of the NBA Draft will comprise of thirty players selected, these players will command top salary money; second round players will command less salary money. Luc says he is not interested in playing anywhere else but the NBA. If he does not make it into the NBA, he will return to UCLA.

This Pre-Draft Camp in Orlando is primarily being attended by players who: (1) are still unsure of their standings in the draft, (2) would like to move up in position in the draft or (3) simply want to get drafted. Players that already have a sense of where they would be drafted (and if it is a high enough position) have opted to skip the camp. Luc's fellow UCLA Bruins Kevin Love (center) and Russell Westbrook (combo guard) are both perceived to be first round draftees, and so they have chosen to skip camp, although they might be there to watch.

Luc is a 6'8' 240 pound power forward, but this is 'smallish' for the NBA. And so, he will be asked to shoot more from the perimeter. Hence, to entice NBA coaches and scouts, Luc needs to be hitting those perimeter shots from the outside, with confidence, accuracy, and hopefully with good range (from the 15-footer to the 3-point shot). His inconsistency on his jump shots was in plain view during his last game this year, the tournament loss to the Memphis Tigers. In that game, the Tigers opted to double-team Kevin Love and dared Luc to make the perimeter shot. Unfortunately for UCLA, Luc could not deliver.

The initial buzz from the Pre-Draft Camp is that Luc is a monster on defense, he is gifted with length and jumping ability, but this is not enough to stand out here since almost everyone here is lengthy and can jump. Luc needs to impress people with his shot, so he has some work to do here. Especially with his smallish size, he will be required to hit his jump shots. This makes being able to make the jump shots that more important for Luc.

In retrospect, Luc had his best year when he was a freshman (first year), as he blew up the college basketball scene then. That might have been a better time for him to have tried for the NBA. Luc's second and third year were plagued with injuries, inconsistent shooting and opposing teams playing him more tightly than during his first year. This made his last two years at UCLA somehwat less impressive than his first.

Luc plans to play for Cameroon in the upcoming Olympic qualifying tournament in Athens, Greece on July 14-20, but this hinges on whether or not he gets drafted by an NBA team. If he gets drafted, he would probably leave it to the NBA team who has drafted him to decide whether he could play in the Olympic qualifying tournament. Cameroon is joined by Puerto Rico and Croatia in Group D in the 12-team tournament, all of whom 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.

Meantime, Luc's fellow Yaounde native and UCLA Bruin teammate Alfred Aboya is close to graduating from UCLA and might not return to UCLA basketball team for his senior year. He plans to go to graduate school. And so, if this takes him away from UCLA, he might forego his senior season with the team. But if he decides to attend graduate school at UCLA, then he might return and play his last year with the team.


Good luck to Luc and Alfred!

Luc Richard Mbah a Moute (200-G/F-88)

Parfait Bitee, Joe Mbang have great closing year to USA college careers -by Cyril Empig
Parfait Bitee (PG, 6'2', 185) and Joe Mbang (F, 6'7', 220), both Yaounde natives, closed their US NCAA college careers impressively this year. Bitee and Mbang played for The University of Rhode Island Rams (Kingston, Rhode Island, USA; the school that produced current NBA Los Angeles Laker Lamar Odom) in the always tough Atlantic 10 conference. The Atlantic 10 boasts storied basketball programs such as Xavier, St. Joseph's, Saint Louis and George Washington, several of which are regular participants in post-season tournaments such as the NCAA tournament and the National Invitational Tournament (NIT). In terms of tournaments, the NIT is second tier to the NCAA tournament. Schools that do not make it to the NCAA tournament might still get invited to play post-season basketball in the NIT.
A lot was expected of both Bitee and Mbang at the start of the season. In the previous year, Bitee was thrusted into the PG position and did well. As a result, Bitee was assigned to run the Rams offense this year, his senior season. He did not disappoint. Bitee averaged 11.8 points, 4.7 assists, 2.5 rebounds, 0.2 blocks and 0.8 steals per game for the 2007-2008 season. He also made 50% of his 3-point shot attempts. During the regular season, Bitee had monster games against Xavier and Saint Joseph's, scoring 25 and 19 points, respectively, in those games. Throughout the Rams season, there were a number of stretches of games in which Bitee scored in double digits and also dished out more than 5 assists in a game.
Mbang also had an impressive third year last season with the Rams and was expected to bring punch to the post offense this year, also his senior season. He finished the 2007-2008 season with a respectable 6.3 points, 4.1 rebounds per game average, even hitting close to 30% of his 3-point shot attempts. Mbang had monster games during the regular season, lighting up New Hampshire for 22 points and Dayton for 21 points.
Closing out the Atlantic 10 conference season, Rhode Island lost in the first round of the conference tournament to the NIT-bound UNC Charlotte 49ers. Bitee had 10 points and 6 assists in the game, although he had 5 turnovers.
With a commendable 21-11 regular season record, the Rams were invited to play in the post-season NIT as a #6 seed. They faced the #3 seed Creighton Bluejays of Omaha, Nebraska (21-10, Missouri Valley Conference) in the first round. The Rams lost the game by one point, 74-73. Bitee scored 7 points, had 2 assists but committed 3 turnovers. Mbang did not play. The Rams closed the season with a final record of 21-12.
Because of his stellar season this year, Biteng was invited to play at the annual Portsmouth Invitational Tournament, a tournament which invites top seniors from across the country for a 4-day competition in front of representatives of NBA teams. Hopefully, players at the PIT would be invited to pre-NBA draft camp or to individual workouts with an NBA team. At the PIT, Biteng averaged 8.7 points, 1, 7 rebounds and 3 assists, and an impressive 3-to-1 assist-to-turnover ratio, in a span of 3 games. Unfortunately, despite these respectable numbers, Biteng was not invited to the pre-NBA Draft camp in Orlando, Florida, where he could have met up with fellow Yaounde native, UCLA Bruins' Luc Richard Mbah a Moute.
Finally, Biteng is slotted to play for Cameroon in the upcoming Olympic qualifier tournament in Greece this summer, where he does get to play with Mbah a Moute.
We are all proud of what Biteng and Mbang had accomplished this year donning the powder blue and white jerseys of Rhode Island. Good luck to these fine men, wherever their careers (basketball or otherwise) might take them.
Parfait Bitee (188-G-85)

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CANADA

Rosters and schedules for development and junior NT -by Eurobasket News
Canada Basketball announced today the summer schedule and training camp rosters for its Development and Junior Men's National Teams.

The Development squad, featuring Davidson College forward Max Paulhus-Gosselin and National Elite Development Academy standout Evaldas Zabas, will be hosting the U22 All-Star Italian Team (Selezione Lega Nazionalle Pallacenestro) for a two game series at University of Toronto (UofT) June 24-25, 2008.

'It's great to be able to play at home, particularly with the senior and development teams,' said Development team head coach Chris O'Rourke, who in 2007 coach Canada's University Summer Games team to a bronze medal in Bangkok, Thailand. 'We hope to see Canadian basketball fans come out and support the guys as this is chance to see some of our country's great young talent. Playing games against Under 22 Italian All-Stars provides our guys with an opportunity to gain international experience.'

The Development team will be training out of Toronto's Air Canada Centre and Upper Canada College from July 17-23. Tip-off for both games against the Italian All-Star team at UofT take place at 7pm, with tickets available at the door for only $10 per game.

Canada's Junior Men's National Team will also have a busy summer, as they gear up for the U18 FIBA Americas Championships, taking place in Formosa, Argentina, July 15-18. Canada's Junior Men finished 10th overall (4-4 record) at the 2007 FIBA U19 Junior World Championship and are looking to return to the world stage for the 2009 FIBA U19 Junior World Championship to be held in New Zealand. Canada must place in the top four at this year's FIBA Americas event to qualify for the World Championship in 2009.

As part of the Junior team's preparation for Argentina, the squad will compete in two exhibition games as part of the Jack Donohue International Classic (JDIC) at Toronto's Ricoh Coliseum, July 4-5. The U18's will be facing a team of University All-Stars prior to each Toronto match of the exhibition series (4pm tip off), which is headlined by Canada's Senior Men facing the national teams of New Zealand and Lebanon (7pm tip off both nights).

'It's exciting for our young guys to play at home, and for their families and fans to see them before we travel to Argentina for the FIBA Americas U18 Championships,' commented Greg Francis, head coach of the Junior men's team and NEDA boys program. 'It's also a chance for these players to see Canada's senior team play live, as they are all aspiring to compete at that level.'


2008 Development Men's National Team (DMNT) Roster

Bakovic, Boris- Forward - 6'6 - Toronto, Ontario - Ryerson University (CIS)
Gibson-Bascombe, Josh - Guard - 6'4 - Toronto, Ontario - U. of Ottawa (CIS)
Hynes-Guery, Adrian - Guard - 6'4 - Montreal, Quebec - Drexel University (NCAA)
Landry, Kyle - Forward - 6'9 - Calgary, Alberta - N. Arizona University (NCAA)
Levros, Louis - Forward - 6'5 - Montreal, Quebec - Quebec City Kebs (ABA)
Mara, Tyrell - Forward - 6'6 - White Rock, BC - Portland State University (NCAA)
Morrison, Scott Centre - 6'11 - Vancouver, BC - Portland State University (NCAA)
Paulhus-Gosselin, Max - Guard - 6'5 - Montreal, Quebec - Davidson College (NCAA)
Sabourin, Jordan - Centre - 7'0 - Sarnia, Ontario - Bremen (Germany)
Williams, Kai - Forward - 6'6 - Regina, Saskatchewan - S. Dakota S.U. (NCAA)
Zabas, Evaldas - Guard - 6'2 - Toronto, Ontario - NEDA
Courtesy of Basketball.ca

Rowan Barrett returns to Team Canada -by Simon Yau
TORONTO - Canada Basketball announced today that veteran guard Rowan Barrett (197-G/F-72, college: St.John's) will be rejoining the Senior Men's National Team this summer with the goal of competing in the 2008 Olympic Games in Beijing, China.

The 6'5' Toronto native returns to Team Canada after a five year absence and immediately becomes the most experienced member of the National Team, having spent over a decade with the program playing in 115 games for Canada.

'We are very excited to have Rowan back in the mix,' said Senior Men's National Team head coach Leo Rautins. 'Rowan offers a wealth of knowledge as a veteran player to a relatively young team.

'He has years of international experience,' continued Rautins. 'Not only at the Olympic level but also the professional level. What impressed me is that I didn't have to make a phone call. Rowan came to me and expressed his desire to help us get to Beijing. Even in subsequent conversations his enthusiasm to play is contagious.'

Barrett captained Team Canada during its seventh place finish in the 2000 Sydney Olympics, the 2002 World Championships, the 2003 Pan American Games as well as the 1999 and 2003 FIBA Americas Championships.

For more information, visit: www.basketball.ca

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CROATIA

Junior team of Cibona wins national championship -by Eurobasket News

Junior team of Cibona is the new champion of Croatia. Cibona's juniors was better than Zadar after over time 92-85. Despite fantastic 30-14, which Cibona made after opening 10 minutes, they wasn't able to celebrate in regular time. Zadar let them score only 8 points in the last frame. But, thanks to Tomislav Zubcic (210-C/F-90) and Leon Radosevic (207-F/C-90), Cibona ended this championship capturing the title.

Tomislav Zubcic and Leon Radosevic paced the winners delivering 21 points each. Ivan Batur (190-G-91) was the top scorer in Zadar with 26 points.


Final game
Zadar - Cibona 85:92

For the 3rd place
Split - SK Varazdin 69:79

Final standings:
1. Cibona
2. Zadar
3. SK Varazdin

4. Split



Split CO ties the score on 2-2 in the final -by Eurobasket News
It seems that home court is the most important fact in the final of Croatian play-off. Split CO outplayed Zadar at the game number four 95-79 tying the score in the final on 2-2. Thus name of the new Croatian champion will be known on Friday and the host will be Zadar.

After almost equalized first half of the game it seemed that Zadar will have a chance to finish championship with winning 3-1 in the final. But Split's player didn't have the same thought. They show up on court with strong willingness to fight until the last moment. At the half way of the third quarter head coach Slobodan Subotic switched Split's defense at zone. Visitors couldn't adapt on it so Split finished third period 24-15. At the beginning of the last quarter it already was 73-57. After that moment it was clear that game number 5 will be the decisive one in the play-off final. Split also totally outrebounded its rival last night grabbing 20 more.
Hero of the game was Hrvoje Peric (203-F-85), who scored 19 of his 20 points in the second half. At the same time he had 6 more assists. Peric had the most important role in the third stanza when Split reached 68-57. During these 10 minutes Peric nailed 10 points. Pearl from Adriatic sea, Damjan Rudez (207-F-86), collected 27 points, 6 rebounds and 4 assists. Deian Ivanov (205-C-86) finished the game with double-double, 15 points and 14 rebounds. Visitors got 16 points from Pankracije Barac (196-G-81). Hero from the last game in Jazine, Corey Brewer (188-G-75, college: Oklahoma), have to be satisfied with 14 points and 7 rebounds this time.


Split CO - Zadar 95-79
(27-27,17-15,24-15,27-22)

Split: Rudez 27 (6 rebs, 4 as), Peric 20 (7 rebs, 6 as), Ivanov 15 (14 rebs), Garnett 14 (4 rebs, 4 as)
Zadar: Barac 16, Brewer 14 (7 rebs), Johnson 12, Stimac 8

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CZECH REPUBLIC

Geofin cut the deficit in the Finals -by Eurobasket News
Geofin - Nymburk 97:93

Gefin survived the home test against the league favorites Nymburk and cut the deficit in the final series to 1-2. Geofin actually handed Nymburk just the second loss in the season. The hosts jumped to an early lead due to back-to-back trebles from Robert Sarovic (205-F-78). Two free throws from Chapman gave Geofin a 10:2 lead with 3 minutes gone in the game. However Nymburk quickly denied the deficit as Radoslav Rancik (207-F/C-78, college: St.Cloud St.), Schilb and Lee dragged the visitors back within 2 points. Chapman and Robert Sarovic continued to terrorize the opponents' defense and led Geofin to a 29:24 advantage at the first intermission. Sokolovky and Radoslav Rancik quickly narrowed it to 1 point but Geofin still maintained the lead. Consecutive triples from Hurl Beechum (196-F-73, college: Iowa St.) allowed the hosts to enjoy a 5-point cushion midway through the frame. The teams drove to halftime break with Geofin up by 3. Ladislav Sokolovsky (201-F-77, agency: PPGroup) and Radoslav Rancik accounted for the first 4 points in the second half and Nymburk surged in front. Nevertheless Hurl Beechum and Robert Sarovic regained the advantage for the home side a minute later. The lead changed hands for three times before Benda and Schilb capped the quarter with 4 unanswered points to keep Nymburk in the charge 72:71 after three quarters of action. Gavlak and Reinberg notched 4 points to give the hosts a 75:72 lead early in the fourth. Soska and Stec added back-to-back treys and Geofin took a sigh of relief. Gavlak and Stec later widened the damage to 11 points. However Nymburk did not give up. Benes and Schilb ignited a comeback effort from the visitors as they cut the gap to a single point 91:92. Venta and Schilb traded baskets before Hurl Beechum nailed a free throw for a 95:93 margin. Seconds later Venta sealed the outcome from charity stripe and Geofin celebrated a tough victory.
Hurl Beechum poured in 18 points to pace Geofin. Robert Sarovic and Kenny Walker (206-F/C-80, college: Alabama) provided 17 points apiece for the winners. Ladislav Sokolovsky answered with 22 points for Nymburk. Radoslav Rancik had 21 points and Scilb delivered 15 in a losing effort. Game 4 is scheduled for tonight in Novy Jicin.

Geofin: Hurl Beechum 18, Robert Sarovic 17, Kenny Walker 17+10 boards
Nymburk: Ladislav Sokolovsky 22, Radoslav Rancik 21

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D-LEAGUE

It's That Time Again - Fireball 2008 Playoffs -by Surujh Roopnarine

We all know that Basketball is a sport where the season never stops, between the NBA, European championships, US minor leagues and playgrounds across the world, basketball is a 24-hour, 365-day obsession for its fans. In the Mecca for playground basketball, New York City, this time of the year is always special as players of all calibers, from all walks of life gear up for 'Summertime in the City'. Legendary Holcomb Rucker Park will be filled with spectators this summer, there will be intensity hard found anywhere else at 'The Cage' at West 4th, and the creme de la creme will beat Hunter College in Harlem for Nike Pro City. Yet, before all of this can take place, the prologue (of ever increasing recognition) occurs every spring at Baruch College in Manhattan during Funsport Inc's Fireball, where NBA young guns like Nate Robinson (5'9''-G-84, college: Washington) match up with against collegiate stars like Chudney Gray (6'2''-G-78, college: St.John's) or Steve Burtt (6'1''-G-84, college: Iona), while hardened veterans like John Wallace (6'8''-F-74, college: Syracuse) and Charles Jones (6'3''-G-75, college: LIU Brooklyn) can match up against playground legends like John Strickland (6'8''-F/C-72, college: Hawaii-Pacific), William 'BJ' McFarland (6'7''-F-76, college: St.Thomas Aquinas), Raphael Edwards (6'7''-F-75, college: E.Carolina) and Mike Campbell (6'6''-G/F-75, college: LIU Brooklyn). Whether you play in the D-League, Euroleague, ABA, NBA or have never played professionally, the summer is the time where you can prove yourself and make an impact on the minds of the harshest critics and fans of basketball around, New York City.
Concluding a seven-game regular season that tipped off in April, this weekend will mark the start of the one-and-done playoffs with the Championship game being contested on Sunday, June 8th. Regular season champs NYAC led by former St. Peter's and Icelandic Express All-Defensive stalwart Nate Brown (6'0''-G-80, college: St.Peter's), went undefeated and are this year's version of the Detroit Pistons, i.e.; team basketball. They will face an arguably more talented (on paper) Gun Hill squad led by former Strong Island Sound guard Aaron 'The Problem' Williams (6'2''-G-82, college: Delaware St.) and former St. John's guard Chudney Gray. In the 2v3 matchup we have the star-studded GCD, headlined by NBA players Nate Robinson and Smush Parker (6'4''-G-81, college: Fordham) along with young studs Kemba Walker (6'0''-G) and Quinton Hosley (6'6''-G/F-84, college: Fresno St.) (Turkey), and the 7'3' Shagari Alleyne (7'3''-C-84, college: Manhattan) (formerly of Kentucky and Manhattan) to mesh with veteran forces like Charles Jones, John Wallace and John Strickland. Their opponents, led by one of the most boisterous and successful coaches in the playground circuit, Rah, will boast an intimidating frontline in Garnett Thompson (6'10''-F/C-80, college: Providence), Mark McCarroll (6'10''-F/C-80, college: Pittsburgh) and William 'BJ' McFarland. If their unheralded, yet productive guards (Phil Grant (6'8''-G/F-79, agency: R.H.Consultancy, college: Iona), Brian Woodward (6'3''-G-81, college: Rhode Island), and Speedy Williams) contend with the NBA talent of GCD, Sean Bell will have a good shot at pulling off the upset.
As the first big-time tournament of the spring/summer season in New York, many teams bided their time in the regular season hoping that late acquisitions from overseas would be back home to help fuel a playoff run. While many teams did find the support they were waiting for, it came too little too late. To this point, big time names like Kenny Satterfield (6'2''-G-81, college: Cincinnati), Antawn Dobie, Raphael Edwards , Mike Campbell, Woody Souffrant (6'1''-G-83, college: Hofstra) and Mike Michael Haynes (6'8''-G/F-81, college: Fordham) will be sitting on the sidelines for the playoffs. Regardless, this weekend will be sure to provide just as many thrills and excitement (if not more) than the hotly contested regular season. 'Summertime in the City'... Gotta love it!

2008 FIREBALL LEAGUE HONOR ROLL
* REGULAR SEASON MVP: Nate Brown (6'0''-G-80, college: St.Peter's) (NYAC)
* DEFENSIVE PLAYER OF THE YEAR: SHAKIM HALL (RACK ATTACK)
* NEWCOMER OF THE YEAR: J.C. Mathis (6'9''-F-82, college: Michigan) (NYAC)
* 6TH MAN OF THE YEAR: Jarrid Frye (6'3''-G-85, college: Sacred Heart) (FOOTPRINTZ)

FIRST TEAM ALL-FIREBALL (BASED ON AT LEAST 3GMS PLAYED)
1. Nate Brown (NYAC)
2. Smush Parker (6'4''-G-81, college: Fordham) (GCD)
3. Nate Robinson (5'9''-G-84, college: Washington) (GCD)
4. Garnett Thompson (6'10''-F/C-80, agency: Strategic Sports, college: Providence) (SEAN BELL/DDN)
5. Aaron Williams (6'2''-G-82, college: Delaware St.) (GUNHILL)

SECOND TEAM ALL-FIREBALL (BASED ON AT LEAST 3GMS PLAYED)
1. STIXX WILLIAMS (GCD)
2. BRYAN MATTHEWS (NYAC)
3. Raphael Edwards (6'7''-F-75, college: E.Carolina) (XMEN)
4. Jarrid Frye (FOOTPRINTZ)
5. J.C. Mathis (NYAC)

FIRST TEAM ALL-FIREBALL DEFENSE (BASED ON AT LEAST 3GMS PLAYED)
1. SHAKIM HALL (RACK ATTACK)
2. Shagari Alleyne (7'3''-C-84, college: Manhattan) (GCD)
3. Smush Parker (GCD)
4. Garnett Thompson (SEAN BELL/DDN)
5. Mark Sanders (6'7''-F-83, college: LIU Brooklyn) (GUNHILL)



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EUROLEAGUE

Panionios is the third Greek team to participate in Euroleague of 08-09 seazon! -by Chris Mammides

Panionios succeeded an epic recall after winning last night for a third consecutive game the team of Soulis Markopoulos, Marousi and made the 3-2 after the initial 0-2 in the last and final stage of the Greek play-offs for the 3rd and 4th position of the Hellenic league.
Coach Markovic's team of Panionios is returning to the Euroleague competition after nearly 12 years, President Lianos (among the few presidents of Basketball clubs in Greece who knows about the sport better than anyone else as he used to be an athlete too) is the happiest man in Greece and he already announced that the budget for the coming season in order for Panionios to have a decent presentation in Euroleague will be 3 million Euros, a really good amount for the team to get the enforcement needed for a good presentation in the best European competition.

In regards to the fifth and final game now, Panionios had in a great shape his peripheral line (Dusan Sakota (209-F-86), Giannis Kalambokis (195-G-78, agency: FCM), Ivan Zoroski (195-G-79, agency: Octagon) and Vasilis Xanthopoulos (188-G-84), shown an amazing character in the most crucial game of the season and with their mature game and amazing shooting skills were able to block the 'tired' players of Marousi (The team of Coach Markopoulos played four games more than Panionios with the very strong teams of Aris and Olympiakos before facing Panioniod in a best of 5 game series)

The quarters of the game were: 18-25, 43-42, 68-56, and the final 88-74.

The scorers for Panionios were: Vasilis Xanthopoulos 6 points and 6 assists, Capin 8, Ivan Zoroski 16, Dusan Sakota 11, Giannis Kalambokis 16, Newley 7, Lonny Baxter (203-C-79, college: Maryland) 12 and Giannoullis 10

The scorers for Marousi were: Stevenson 14, Haralambidis 14, Milisavljevic 16, Tountziarakis 2, Dimitris Mavroeidis (208-C-85) 7, Bakic 2, Bryant 2, Glyniadakis 4, and Kaimakoglou 13



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FRANCE

ProB: St-Etienne and Poitiers force game 3 -by Chris Spiesser
Poitiers and St-Etienne overcome a stressfull situation to get a chance to reach the ProB final in 10 days in Bercy.

Besancon 82-90 St-Etienne
St-Etienne which lost the home court advantage, last Saturday, against Besancon stole it back in the Doubs. This performance was mainly driven by Justin Ingram (188-G-85, college: Toledo) who posted 32pts (7/9 3pts), 6rbs and 6ass. He contained Terrence Johnson and his 31pts. Johan Passave was a big help with 15pts, 6rbs as well as Mohamed Hachad (19pts, 5rbs, 6to, 3ass).

Poitiers 95-85 Bourg
Less surprising, the pictavians defeated Bourg with the habitual US impact. Tommy Gunn had 23pts, 6rbs, 3stl and 6 ass while Kenny Younger missed none of his 7 shoots to score 23pts plus 5rbs and 2blk. The locals led the whole game thanks to a precious assists / turnovers ratio (23/9).

NM1: Team engagements for next season -by Chris Spiesser
The french federation website announces that the team engagements in the national championnships are gonna take place from the 10th to 20th of June. This concerns especially NM1 as serious questions are raised concerning some teams. Mainly, Juvisy and Prisse-Macon's cases which won, on court, a NM1 place will be decreed on. In case a negative answer would be given to those, the 07/08 relegated have priority to get maintained. So Mulhouse and Feurs are waiting to learn about their future.

Pro A& B : Market news -by Aurelien Hipp
*Evreux has signed 2 players for next season. Martin Le Pellec (200-F-87) is coming from Rouen while Tony Housieaux comes back from the Cholet U21 team . Le Pellec is a young player who helped Rouen to reach the ProA this season, posting 5.9ppg 2.4rpg in ProB this season.

*The french ProB MVP is moving from Nanterre to Orleans. Despite he was loaned by Roanne to Nanterre, the player this time is transferred to Orleans. Adrien Moerman (203-F/C-88) posted 14.7ppg 7.7rpg in 28 mins with Nanterre.

Roanne detour Le Mans to force decider -by Eurobasket News
Roanne - Le Mans 73:60

Roanne stayed alive in the semifinal series against Le Mans. They held off the top-ranked Le Mans at home in the second game of the series to force the decisive third encounter in the clash. The win never came easy for Roanne. They opened the game slowly and the visitors capitalized. Le Mans limited the hosts to 9 points in the starting frame and built an 18:9 lead after a quarter of action. Roanne could not recover in the second frame as Le Mans dictated the pace at the moment. Sam Clancy (201-F-80, college: USC) led the charge for the visitors in the first half as they enjoyed a 7-point buffer at halftime. But finally Roanne broke through. They notched 20 points in the third frame while Le Mans answered with just 6 to fall behind. Brion Rush (186-G-84, college: Grambling St.) and Laurent Cazalon (195-G-79) ignited the hosts' rally that put them in front 50:43 with one quarter left in the game. Roanne kept mounting the pressure and kept the visitors at bay throughout the fourth term. A couple of treys from Cazalon and Brion Rush allowed Roanne not to worry about the outcome in the dying stages as they drove to a confident victory at the end. Brion Rush finished with 19 points and 8 boards for Roanne. Laurent Cazalon added 17 points, while Marc Salyers (205-F-79, college: Samford) and Pape Badiane (208-F/C-80, college: Cleveland St.) dropped 10 points apiece for the winners. Sam Clancy answered with 15 points and 9 boards for Le Mans. Alain Koffi (205-C-83) had 13 points in a losing effort. The hosts outrebounded Le Mans 32:26 and converted 48% from the field. The third game is scheduled for Saturday.

Roanne: Brion Rush 19, Laurent Cazalon 17, Marc Salyers 10, Pape Badiane 10
Le Mans: Sam Clancy 15, Alain Koffi 13

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FYR MACEDONIA

Strumica 2005 ready to defend championship title ? -by Eurobasket News
Who will be the new champion of FYR Macedonia will be known on Saturday. Strumica 2005 made a surprise celebrating on the road against Feni Industri 83-78 tying the score in the final on 3-3.

Feni had a historical opportunity to finish championship at their home court but the defending champion showed its real face when it was the most important. As it was at the previous game in Strumica, this one is also decided at the very end. The host made fantastic advantage in the third quarter. After run 24-11 they reached plus 19 while its opponent on the other side was totally frustrated. Almost everybody in hall Jasmin already saw Feni as a new champion. But Miljan Pupovic (210-C/F-83, agency: Interperformances), Eftim Bogoev (185-G-80) and Dimtche Tasovski (202-F-80) didn't want to give up. During the last 10 minutes they took care that final series not finish in Kavadarci. At the first point Strumica came on 69-60 in 34th minute. Later they come even closer decreasing their minus on 7 points with 2:32 remaining. Then Dimtche Tasovski stepped up. He made couple of steals on the defensive end immediately scoring on the other side of the court. Visitors made 11-0 run which brought them 79-78 just 37 seconds before the end. Eftim Bogoev missed 2 FTs for Strumica but fortunately to them Damir Latovic (204-C-80) grabbed the ball. He got fouled and scored one FT after that. Crucial moment of the game happened when Dimtche Tasovski took the ball from Samardziev at the middle of the court after what Samardziev committed flagrant foul.

Eftim Bogoev led the winners scoring 23 points while Miljan Pupovic followed him netting 21 points. Hero of the game Dimtche Tasovski delivered 18 points. Feni got 26 points from Donald Cole (204-C-81, agency: Edge Sports, college: Sam Houston St.).


Feni Industri - Strumica 78-83
(21-17, 19-18, 25-13, 13-35 )

Feni: Cole 26, Gocevski 20, Samardziev 9, Prekovic 8
Strumica 2005: Bogoev 23, Pupovic 21, Tasovski 18

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GERMANY

Bundesliga Semifinals Results Thursday June 5th! -by Michael Taylor
Thursday June 5th
Telekom Baskets Bonn 75 Deutsche Bank Skyliners 74 (Bonn Wins Series 3-2)
Telekom Baskets Bonn overcame their losses and had one meaningful addition in a special day for their team on and off the floor Thursday night. Facing a decisive Game 5 on the road in Frankfurt, Telekom Baskets Bonn were without key big men John Bowler and Ronnie Burrell, two central figures in the teams success throughout the season. While Head coach Michael Koch counted on a team effort on the court, Bonn PG Miah Davis and family celebrated the birth of a child just 3hrs before the game. Rushed to the Ballsporthalle, Davis was the driving force with a team best 18pt performance in Bonn's thrilling 75-74 Game 5 road win over Deutsche Bank Skyliners to claim their Bundesliga Semifinal Series 3 games to 2. Along with Davis' heroics, veteran post man Bernd Kruel and Moussa Diagne played big minutes for the Bonn frontcourt. Miah Davis topscored with 18pt while Moussa Diagne added 15pt and Winsome Frazier 13pt in the win. Frankfurt edged ahead 24-23 after 1Q before Bonn answered with a strong 2Q to hold a 46-41 halftime lead. Skyliners came back in the 3Q and Bonn took a 58-56 lead into the 4th. Tied at 62 with 4min to play Bernd Kruel finished inside to give Bonn a 64-62 lead. After a defensive stop, Bonn's JJ Strasser drilled a 3 from the right wing over the Skyliners zone to give Michael Koch and his men a 67-62 lead forcing a Frankfurt timeout. Pascal Roller trimmed the margin with 2FT and Derrick Allen cut the margin even more with 2FT. Bonn led 67-66 with 2:17 to play. Bernd Kruel scored in the paint again givine Bonn a 69-66 lead with 150 remaining and Roller got to the foul line again where he nailed 2FT. With 113 to play Bonn held a tight 69-68 lead. Springing free off a beautiful backscreen, Moussa Diagne finished his cut with a slam dunk and Bonn took a 71-68 advantage with 1min. Cooly, Ilian Evtimov answered for Frankfurt with a pick and pop 3 from the top of the key to tie at 71 with 51sec. Diagne finished a strong power move to put Bonn back up 73-71 before Roller hit 1 of 2 FT with 18sec. Evtimov fouled Bonn's Winsome Frazier who calmly sank 2FT and the guests held a 75-72 lead. Roller answered with a layup cutting the deficit to 75-74. WIth 8.2sec remaining Frankfurt fouled Winsome Frazier again. This time, he missed his first and was called for a FT line violation on the second giving Skyliners one more chance with a 3/4court inbound down 1. Frankfurts Pascal Roller weaved through the Bonn defense coast to coast but could not finish his tough play in the paint. Bernd Kruel tapped the ball away at the buzzer and Bonn earned a thrilling 75-74 Game 5 win in Frankfurt. In the loss, Skyliners were led by Pascal Rollers 18pt 6ast and Ilian Evtimov with 17pt 4reb 4ast. Both teams shot 46% from the floor and grabbed 32 rebounds apiece. Skyliners shot 12 for 21 from three (57%) and 14 for 16 FT (87%) while Bonn made 7 of 18 (39%) from three and 12 for 21 FT (57%). Skyliners suffered 18turnovers in the loss. Congratulations to Head Coach Murat Didin and the Deutsche Bank Skyliners for an outstanding season and terrific effort in the playoffs! The outstanding Bundesliga Semifinals Series went down to the final seconds but Bonn earned the series win 3 games to 2. Head Coach Michael Koch and his team now prepare for ALBA Berlin in the Bundesliga Finals. It will be the 4th time in Bundesliga history Bonn has faced ALBA Berlin. Game 1 of the Bundesliga Finals series tips off Sunday June 8th 3pm at MaxSchmellinghalle in Berlin.

Bjoern Harmsen named Head Coach at MBC -by Moritz Korff
Bjoern Harmsen was named Head Coach at Mitteldeutscher BC (2. Bundesliga Pro A), as the team announced on its website today. Harmsen, only 25 years of age, was the 2007 Eurobasket.com All-2 Bundesliga South Coach of the Year, after he led Jena to a championship and to the 1. Bundesliga. In February 08 he parted with the team and was replaced by Sean McCaw. According to the press release on MBCs website the club chose Harmsen over 25 other candidates. Dirk Dittrich is going to be his Assistant.

Sakalauskas: Two more years in Bremerhaven -by Manuel Schust
Head coach Dr. Sarunas Sakalauskas remains loyal to Eisbaeren Bremerhaven.
Today the club announced, that Sakalauskas signed a new 2-year contract.
The 47-year old lithiuanian, joined Bremerhaven in December 2000 and helped the team to promote to BBL in 2005.
Ever since promoting to BBL, Sakalauskas' teams always managed to reach the play-offs.
Despite many other offers, Doc Dr. Sakalauskas decided to stay in Bremerhaven for his ninth coaching season.

Thorsten Leibenath is Artland's new head coach -by Manuel Schust
Thorsten Leibenath , former Giessen 46ers coach, signed a 2-year contract with Artland Dragons and is Chris Fleming's successor.
The 33-year-old Leibenath started his career as a head coach in Great Britain, coaching the Scottish Rocks. His team ended up a finalist in both, the championship and the cup.
Last season Thorsten Leibenath returned to Germany as head coach for the Giessen 46ers and finished the season on 16th spot.

Regionalliga News from Hagen -by Daniel Poerschke

The new head coach at BG Hagen Kosta Filippou and his new assistant Lukic announced that their first foreigner spot will be taken by the young 18 year old serbian playmaker Filip Marjanovic out of Belgrade. Meanwhile guard Michael Wasielewski (187-G-82) will not play for BG Hagen next season.
The other 1. Regionalliga West team BBV Hagen will add another junior national team player from their talent-rich youth program to their first senior team: Under-16 team forward Mike Gulicki (195-F-92).

In the 2. Regionalliga West the canadian Point Guard Edson Jones (193-G) will return to play for SV Haspe 70.



Market News -by Moritz Korff
The SOBA Dragons Rhoendorf, who decided to withdraw their team from the 2. Bundesliga Pro A and will go to the start in the Pro B next season, extended the contract of Head Coach Olaf Stolz. The 42-year-old is also working as a Coach of the Belgium Women's National Team and thus will miss some weeks of the pre-season due to the qualifiers for the European Championships.

Peter Guenschel, the Assistant Coach of BG 74 Goettingen (1. Bundesliga), has earned contract extension. He will stay two more years with the Violets.

Erdgas Ehingen/Urspringschule (2. Bundesliga Pro B) added Cornelius Adler (195-G/F-89) to the roster for the 2008-2009 campaign. The 19-year-old Wing led the Youth-Bundesliga (NBBL) in points per game (24.2ppg) during this past season while being a member of SG Braunschweig. Adler also appeared in 5 games for the Spot Up Medien Baskets Braunschweig in the 2. Bundesliga Pro B and tallied 2.0 points per contest.

Garrett receives contract extension -by Manuel Schust
According to local press reports german national player Robert Garrett (193-G-77, agency: SportsTalent) remains with Brose Baskets Bamberg and signed a new 2-year contract with the franconians.
The 31-year-old, who played years ago against his new head coach Chris Fleming , said that Bamberg game will become more offensive minded next season.
After spending his first pro years with Wuerzburg on Dirk Nowitzkis (211-F-78) side, Garrett joined Skyliners Frankfurt in 2003 and won the german champioship in his second year.
After some months in Italy, Garrett returned to Germany, signing with Bamberg in 2005. Garrett, a former league top scorer, now had a new role, coming from the bench.
With Bamberg he won another championship in 2007. Last season 'Robse' produced 8.3 points, 2.9 rebounds and 2 assists per game. He also played Euroleague with Bamberg averaging 6.6ppg, 1.8rpg, 1.3apg.

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GREECE

Panionios is the third Greek team to participate in Euroleague of 08-09 seazon! -by Chris Mammides

Panionios succeeded an epic recall after winning last night for a third consecutive game the team of Soulis Markopoulos, Marousi and made the 3-2 after the initial 0-2 in the last and final stage of the Greek play-offs for the 3rd and 4th position of the Hellenic league.
Coach Markovic's team of Panionios is returning to the Euroleague competition after nearly 12 years, President Lianos (among the few presidents of Basketball clubs in Greece who knows about the sport better than anyone else as he used to be an athlete too) is the happiest man in Greece and he already announced that the budget for the coming season in order for Panionios to have a decent presentation in Euroleague will be 3 million Euros, a really good amount for the team to get the enforcement needed for a good presentation in the best European competition.

In regards to the fifth and final game now, Panionios had in a great shape his peripheral line (Dusan Sakota (209-F-86), Giannis Kalambokis (195-G-78, agency: FCM), Ivan Zoroski (195-G-79, agency: Octagon) and Vasilis Xanthopoulos (188-G-84), shown an amazing character in the most crucial game of the season and with their mature game and amazing shooting skills were able to block the 'tired' players of Marousi (The team of Coach Markopoulos played four games more than Panionios with the very strong teams of Aris and Olympiakos before facing Panioniod in a best of 5 game series)

The quarters of the game were: 18-25, 43-42, 68-56, and the final 88-74.

The scorers for Panionios were: Vasilis Xanthopoulos 6 points and 6 assists, Capin 8, Ivan Zoroski 16, Dusan Sakota 11, Giannis Kalambokis 16, Newley 7, Lonny Baxter (203-C-79, college: Maryland) 12 and Giannoullis 10

The scorers for Marousi were: Stevenson 14, Haralambidis 14, Milisavljevic 16, Tountziarakis 2, Dimitris Mavroeidis (208-C-85) 7, Bakic 2, Bryant 2, Glyniadakis 4, and Kaimakoglou 13



Charalampos Giannopoulos and Igor Milosevic in Trevizo -by Serafim Karaiskakis
Charalampos Giannopoulos and Igor Milosevic (193-G-86) will participate in Reebok Eurocamp 2008. It's an annual camp about the best european prospects, players like Danilo Gallinari, Nicolas Batum and Goran Dragic will be there. The games will start in 2 days (June 7th). Many players who played there in the past years are now in the NBA, like Andrea Bargnani, Mouhamed Sene, Marco Belinelli, Johan Petro, Marcin Gortat and Didier Mbenga.

Stats Leaders - A1
A1 Stats Leaders
Points Per Game
1 Grundy, Panell. 21.5
2 Massey, ARIS 18.0
3 Keys, A.E.L. 13.0
4 Pinnock, Kolossos 15.0
5 Nikolaidis, Egalo 14.8
Rebounds Per Game
1 Wesson, A.E.K. 8.9
2 Massey, ARIS 8.6
3 Ceranic, A.E.L. 8.6
4 Bourousis, Oly. 7.5
5 Klimavicius, A.E.L. 6.9
Assists Per Game
1 Spanoulis, Pana. 4.8
2 Diamantidis, Pana. 3.6
3 Jasikevicius, Pana. 3.5
4 Kojadinovic, Costa 3.5
5 Keys, A.E.L. 3.3
Steals Per Game
1 Jaaber, Egaleo 2.8
2 Massey, Aris 2.3
3 Grundy,Panell. 2.3
Blocks Per Game
1 Klimavicius, A.E.L. 1.5
2 N'Diaye, Panell. 1.3
3 Bourousis, Oly. 1.2
2FGP
1 Giannoulis, Pan. 65.0
2 Massey, ARIS 63.0
3 Klimavic., A.E.L. 63.0
3FGP
1 Kurtovic, Olympia 53.0
2 Jasikevic., Pana. 49.0
3 Becirovic, Pana. 45.0
Free Throws
1 Papan.., A.E.L. 92.0
2 Kalampoki., Pan. 87.0
3 Keys A.E.L. 87.0


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IBL

Top Players at USBA/IBL Exposure Camp -by Carl Berman

Over 100 players participated at the USBA/IBL international exposure camp in Blue River, OR from May 27th-29th. The level of play was very good and was viewed from scouts from teams in South America, Japan, China and South Korea as well as many agents and IBL representatives. Only 25% of the players came from NCAA Division 1 schools which indicates how talented players slip through the recruiting cracks for a variety of reasons. While we are naming the top players in this article, many other players not mentioned have the ability to play overseas productively. The following players impressed us the most:

Point Guards: God Shammgod (6'1''-G-76, agency: Passing Lane, college: Providence) was the most complete point guard at the camp. An NBA and overseas veteran Shammgod knows how to run a team and can use his strong body to score in the post. Kevin Tyner (6'0''-G-83, college: W.Oregon), currently playing for Vancouver in the IBL, was the most consistent point. Tyner is just a solid point guard was solid skills in all areas. He has had prior experience in Germany. Josh Jackson (6'2''-G, college: Warner Pacific), another Vancouver player, recently graduated from Warner Pacific College was the surprise of the camp. He can play both guard spots, is very quick and has an excellent shot.

Shooting Guards/Small Forwards: Tyler Amaya (6'6''-F-82, agency: R.H.Consultancy, college: W.Washington), currently playing for the Bellingham IBL team, impressed us the most. Amaya has a complete game and is very athletic. He can soar for dunks and has a good range on his outside shot. Sheldon Bailey (6'6''-F-83, college: Florida Intern.), a 6-6 athlete with experience in China, can take anyone off the dribble, is a great rebounder and is extremely quick. Kenny Langhorne (6'5''-F/G-83, college: S.Arkansas), who is playing for Grand Rapids in the IBL, is a strong 6-5 who can score underneath as well as from long range. He recently scored 49 points in an IBL game. Kenny Tate, a 6-4 IBL veteran with experience in Saudi Arabia, can play the 1, 2 or 3, can run a team and score from anywhere. Reggie Smith, a 6-5 athlete from Northeastern State, can run and jump with anyone and has good range on his shot. Bobby Nash (6'6''-G/F-84), a 6-6 recent graduate of Hawaii, has good skills in all areas and is a total team player, always looking for the best opportunity for his team.


Power Forwards/Centers: 6-10 Dean Browne (6'9''-C-80, college: Nevada) (6'9''-C-80, college: Nevada) was the most impressive player at the camp. Browne, from Nevada with experience in Japan, has unusual ballhandling skills for someone his size. He can take his man off the dribble and go in for thunderous dunks and has good rebounding and shotblocking ability with a good medium range shot. He has the ability to play at the top levels overseas. Nate Gerwig (6'9''-F/C-83, college: Kent St.), from Kent State and the D-League is a strong 6-9, an excellent rebounder with a good three point shot. Brad Stricker (6'11''-C/F-77, college: Georgia St.), another D-Leaguer, is a very strong 6-11 who is solid in the blocks and is an excellent rebounder.


Other players who impressed us included: shooters James Life from UMass and Larry Smith from the Portland IBL team, point guard Matt Martin from Montana, wings Shane Thorson from the Grand Rapids IBL team and Jalonta Martin fom the Central Oregon IBL team, combo guard Marc Williams from the Porttland IBL team and Porter Troupe from the Vancouver IBL team. An interesting prospect is Brad Favin a 7-2 center with improving skills.



Elgin Racers add Kou and Eddins to line-up -by Trask Frost
The Racers have added Majak Kou (6'5''-G-84), a 6'5 small forward from Loyola University in Chicago. Majak is originally from the Sudan, but grew up in Ontario, Canada. While at Loyola, Kou averaged 10 points per game as a sophomore, 11 points per game as a junior and 13 points per game as a senior. Kou's 1,233 career points place him 20th on Loyola's all time scoring list. Kou was a two year starter for the Ramblers and earned All Defensive team honors in the Horizon League both his junior and senior. Kou recently returned from France where he completed his first year as a professional.

Demario Eddins, a four year starter at UAB has alsojoined the Elgin Racers. Eddins began his career as a UAB Blazer with a bang, smashing the single season scoring record for freshmen during the 2002-2003 season. As a result of his 349 points, he was named to the Conference USA All-Freshman Team. Additionally, he was named the Chevrolet Player of the Game during the Conference USA Championship game versus Louisville. Eddins did not experience a A¢â‚¬Ëœsophomore slump' as he averaged 10 points and 5 rebounds per game, helping the Blazers advance to the Sweet 16 of the NCAA Tournament. Eddins was named the Blazer All Around Award winner for being the most versatile player on the squad. Eddins junior campaign produced much of the same, as he averaged 13 points per game and helped the Blazers advance to the second round of the NCAA Tournament. He also eclipsed the 1000 point total for his career during a 25 point outburst versus Tulane on February 26, 2005. Eddins is a 6'7 forward who is originally from Chicago, Illinois.

Elgin Racer President/Head Coach Michael Murphy on the additions: 'We are excited by the length and athleticism that both Majak and Demario will add to our lineup. Both have played against tremendous competition at the collegiate level and have more than held their own. We expect an immediate impact from both players as we head into the final month of the season.'

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INDIA

NRI Indian Basketball League Semi Results -by Anil Kumar
Our Own had in its ranks experienced players who did not choke under pressure. It was a key factor as it helped the Boys U13 Inter School Champions score a 53:39 win over Delhi Private School, Dubai to enter the final of the 3rd Indian Basketball League Tournament organised by Indian Basketball Society, U.A.E.

In the second semi-finals last year's runners-up Dubai Modern High School cruised past Emirates National School, Sharjah 46:36.

Our Own, Warqa boys, apart from being solid at defence, kept scoring at a steady pace. Akshay and Jacob Alex maintained the tempo in first quarter which gave them 16:7 lead. DPS players Jerry Bobby and Reynold combined well in the second quarter to score 20:8 against Our Own and took a three point lead, 27;24 at half time. Our Own steamrolled DPS in the third quarter, 21:3 and gained 15 points lead, 45:30. Both the teams found the going tough as the players continuously missed the targets in the last quarter. DPS scored 9 against 8 in the last quarter. Jacob Alex notched 17 points and Akshay netted 14 points for the winners. Jerry Bobby responded with 16 points and Reynold scored 13 points for the losers.

Dubai Modern held the upper hand from the beginning and never allowed ENS to settle down. As Modern's scoring machine Munif was tightly marked by ENS players, Sai Krishna and Surya Kakria found the gap and scored the under baskets easily. Modern led 10:9 in the first session and 7:5 in the second session. ENS lanky player Aamir missed the lay ups continuously and they trailed 7:12 in the third quarter. Both the teams went for a scoring spree in the last quarter in which Dubai Modern led 16:15. Munif top scored for Modern with 16 points followed by Sai Krishna 14. Aamir 14 and James 12 were the leading scorers for ENS.

Dubai Modern to meet DPS, Sharjah in the Girls finals

In the U-13 girls division semi finals Dubai Modern High School beat Millennium School, Dubai 15:11 and DPS, Sharjah outscored DPS, Dubai 45:8. Finals will be held on Friday from 3 p.m. at Al Shaab Sports Club, Sharjah. The event is being supported by Dr. Sunny's Medical Centre, Sharjah, ETA Star, UAE Exchange, J Mart, Giordano Fashions, Blade Watches, Dhanya Group of Companies, Sharjah, Titan Shipping, Dubai; Clipsal, Sharjah, Euphoria Int'l Trading, Dubai, Geant Reinforced Plastics, Sharjah and The Oxford School, Dubai.

Results:

U-13 Boys Semi-Finals
Dubai Modern high School 46 (Munif Mohammed 16, Sai Krishna 14, Surya Kakria 8, Shaun Gomes 4, Akash Chander 2, Pranav Chaudhary 2) beat Emirates National School, Sharjah 36 (Aamir 14, James 12, Obaid 4, Bobby 4, Vipin 2).

Our Own High School, Al Warqa: 53 (Jacob Alex 17, Akshay 14, Raymond Cruz 10, George Jacob 4, Rishwat 4, Thejas 2, Robin Cruz 2) beat DPS, Dubai 39 (Jerry Bobby 16, Reynold 13, Malcolm 6, Raunaq 2 and Steven 2)

U-13 Girls Semi-Finals

Dubai Modern High School: 15 (Rhea Kalapura 9, Azraa Mansoor 4 and Annalie 2) beat Millennium School, Dubai 11 (Amritha 11, Geethanjali 2, Katyani 2, Shriya 2 and Mandira 1)

DPS, Sharjah:45 (Juliet 20, Joannu 14, Roshanara 7, Humeira 2, Spoorthy 2) beat DPS, Dubai 8 (Shifali 4, Karina 2, Kanishka 2)

Or Own wins NRI league U-13 boys title -by Anil Kumar
Our Own High School, Al Warqa and Delhi Private School, Sharjah lifted the 3rd IBS League under 13 Boys and Girls championships respectively. Our Own Warqa led the first quarter 11-9. Our own with its better bench strength were able to field a stronger side in the second quarter where as Dubai Modern have to rest four of their best in the bench during that quarter. Capitalising this advantage Praful Pradeep and Robin Cruz pierced through the Modern Defence to establish a sound lead by scoring 13-1 in the second quarter. With the 14 point deficit Modern struggled in the third quarter to reduce the margin but Our Own¢s Jacob Alex and Akshay Pradeep went for a scoring spree by netting 10 and 6 points respectively. Modern scored 9 points against 16 in the third quarter.

Modern¢s Munif and Surya Kakria found their rhythm as Modern surged ahead in the last quarter to outscore 19-6 but were only able to reduce the margin to 8 points. Final score 46-38. Akshay Prashant and Jacob Alex were the top scorers for the winners with 10 points each. Munif scored 18 and Surya Kakria netted 11 points for the losing team.

In the U13 Girls finals DPS, Sharjah applied full court pressure defence and never allowed the Dubai Modern girls to settle down. Juliet and Joannu the two most match experienced players see no problems in penetrating Modern Defence. DPS, who scored 38 points in the first half, were in no mood to allow their opponents to open the score. In the third quarter while DPS rested few of their prolific scorers Modern opened their account and scored 8 points against 4 points in the second half..

In the under 13 boys play off for the 3rd place Emirates National School, Sharjah defeated DPS, Dubai 57-50. DPS led 15-10 in the first quarter and ENS equalised the score 25-25 before the breather. ENS scored 15-7 in the third quarter and scored 17 against 18 in the last quarter. Aamir top scored for ENS with 22 points followed by Obaid who netted 15 points. Jerry 23 and Raymond 18 were the main scorers for DPS, Dubai.

Mr. Suneel Aggarwal, Mr. Sameer K. Mohammed, both Patrons of IBS, Mr. Sharful Anam Sabir Akhand of Titan Shipping and Mrs. Leena tharakan Vice Prsident of Indian basketball Society gave away the trophies. Dr. Sunny Kurian, Patron of IBS distributed special awards to the promising players of under 13 categories. U13 division trophies were sponsored by Dhanya Group of Companies, Giant Reinforced Plastics, Giordano Fashions, Eiffel Printing Services, Oxford School, Dubai and Reebok. Dr. Sunny¢s Medical Centre, Blade Watches, J Mart, Clipsal, Sharjah, Euphoria Int¢l Trading, ETA Star, Dubai and UAE Exchange Centre are the supporting sponsors of the 3rd Indian Basketball League 2008.

Juliet and Joannu, both from DPS, Sharjah were adjudged as the promising players of the U13 girls division. Munir (Dubai Modern), Aamir (ENS, Sharjah), Jerry Bobby (DPS, Sharjah) and George Jacob (Our Own, Al Warqa) were adjudged as the promising players of the U13 boys division. Akshay Prashant of Our Own Al Warqa was given special prize for his outstanding performance in the tournament.

Final¢s Results:

U13 Boys: Our Own high School, Al Warqa: 46 (Jacob Alex 10, Akshay Prashant 10, Praful Pradeep 6, George Jacob 6, Talha Khalid 4, Raymond Cruz 3, Saeed Rishfathy 3, Raymond Anthony 2 and Robin Cruz 2) beat Dubai Modern High School: 38 (Munif Mohammed 18, Surya Kakriya 11, Shaun Gomez 4, Akash Chandra 2, Saikrishna 3)

U13 Girls: DPS, Sharjah 42 (Najad 15, Juliet 14, Humeira 7, Joannu 4, Kiran 2) beat Dubai Modern 8 (Rhea Kalapura 6, Azraa Mansoor 1 and Donnah Holloway 1)

U13 boys 3rd place play off: ENS, Sharjah 57 (Aimer 22, Obadiah 15, Bobby 8, Sanjay 4, Nihal 2, Alit 2, James 2, Sanity 2) beat DPS, Dubai 50 (Jerry Bobby 23, Raymond 18, Fauna 4, Malcolm 2 and Steven 3)

NBA Camp - Is India gearing up for this unique event? -by Anil Kumar
Kyle Korver (Utah Jazz), Ronny Turiaf (L.A. Lakers), Pat Garrity (Orlando Magic) and Linton Johnson (Phoenix Sons) are all familiar names to Indian basketball buffs who follow the American National Basketball Association (NBA) league live on sports channels.

Theses stars will be among the 53 players from 15 countries playing in the NBA held in India for the first time next month as part of a global basketball development and community outreach programme to promote the sport as well as encourage positive social change in the areas of education, health and wellness in local communities.

The event, billed as Basketball without Borders Asia, will be held at the American Embassy School here from July 3-6, 2008 under the auspices of the NBA, Federation of International Basketball Associations (FIBA) and the Basketball Federation of India.

'The NBA and its players are afforded a unique opportunity to use basketball as a forum and stress the values of our game to influence social change,' said NBA Commissioner David Stern. 'Each Basketball without Borders camp unites a diverse group of people to initiate a global dialogue on important issues such as healthy living, education and HIV/AIDS awareness.'

Joining the NBA players as camp coaches are NBA Legend Sam Perkins, NBA coach Don Casey and Don Newman of the San Antonio Spurs. Gregg Farnam of the Minnesota Timberwolves will take part as the camp's athletic trainer. Houston Rockets assistant coach Dean Cooper will oversee as camp director for the fourth consecutive year. NBA great Dominique Wilkins will also be here to promote the event and also to enhance the popularity of the NBA.

'FIBA is very satisfied with its long-term collaboration with the NBA. Basketball without Borders is an invaluable educational, social and health-awareness tool for all youth, where they also showcase their skills and learn from some of the best coaches and players,' said FIBA Secretary-General and IOC member Patrick Baumann. 'We are pleased to be going to India for the first time, where Basketball without Borders will be able to further a growing interest in basketball.'

BFI secretary-general Harish Sharma sees the event as a great opportunity to popularise the sport in the country.

Basketball without Borders has featured over 250 current and former NBA players, coaches and team personnel from 30 different teams who have served as camp coaches and mentors for over 1200 young athletes from more than 100 countries and territories on five continents. Last year, the event took place in Shanghai, Sao Paulo, Paris and Johannesburg.

It remans to be seen how this event would help generate the much needed hype for the pro league plans of the BFI schedled in October. Several foreign players and also players of Indian orgin are eager to be part of the pro league but there seems to be no clear entry pont with none of the teams coming ot in the open to absorb such international talents. Only time will tell perhaps...

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ITALY

Team Italy defeated again -by Gianni Pascucci
Czech Rebublic prevailed over Italy 98-90 yesterday night in Bassano. For this second match, coach Recalcati had added some new players, Davide Bruttini (203-F-87), Simone Pierich (198-F-81) and Tommaso Rinaldi (204-F/C-85), but the game result was the same. Despite a very good game from Luca Garri (207-C/F-82), who ended at 22 points, and Tommaso Fantoni (203-F-85, agency: Players Group), who added 18, Czech Republic took the win, led by Lukas Kraus (201-F-84, agency: PPGroup), who scored 18 points, Petr Bohacik (202-F-85, agency: PPGroup), who scored 13 points with 100% from the field and Stanislav Votroubek (214-C-81, agency: PPGroup), who added 13 pts he too.

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IVORY COAST

Mohamed Kone beats Alain Koffi in game #2 of French semis -by Eurobasket News
After great win in the first game of French Pro A play-off semifinals, Alain Koffi (205-C-83) and his Le Mans suffered road defeat against Roanne. Thus the score in the play-off semifinal series is tied on 1-1.

Top-ranked team of regular season Le Mans had a fantastic start. They let Roanne to score only 9 points in the first stanza. It was 18-9 for Le Mans after first ten minutes. Alain Koffi and his teammates continued at the same rhythm in the second frame also. They went on the half time with comfortable advantage of 7 points. Third quarter brought totally different picture. Le Mans played it without attitude which resulted with only 6 points for 10 minutes. On the other side Roanne netted 20 which automatically gave them an advantage of 7 points before the last frame. During those 10 minutes Le Mans did not have power even to threat. Roanne picked up where they left of in the third period finishing game with confident 73-60.

Alain Koffi of Le Mans netted 13 points for 26 minutes. He had nice shot percentage scoring 6 of 9 attempts from the field and 1/1 FTs. At the same time he grabbed 4 rebounds reaching index value 15. Mohamed Kone (211-C-81, college: Valparaiso) scored 3 points for the winners.

The decisive game will be played on Saturday at Le Mans' home court.


Roanne - Le Mans 73:60
(9-18,21-19,20-6,23-17)

Roanne: Rush 19 (8 rebs), Cazalon 17 (5 rebs), Salyers 10, Badiane 10, Kone 3
Le Mans: Clancy 15, Koffi 13

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KBDL

Thunder picks up Ohio State Standout -by Thom McQueen


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MOROCCO

Mohamed Hachad close to French Pro B final -by Eurobasket News
Guard Mohamed Hachad (194-G-83, college: Northwestern) and his St-Etienne succeeded to beat Besancon 90-82 on the road tying the score in the semifinals of French Pro B on 1-1.

St-Etienne suffered defeat at the first game at their home court. Besancon registered an easy win beating them 92-76. Despite this inconvenient defeat Mohamed Hachad and his teammates did not give up. At the second game, which was played at Besancon yesterday, they showed totally different face. Their willingness to reach the final was obvious. St-Etienne finished first quarter with plus 4 while 10 minutes later its lead became bigger, 34-41. Later, at the third stanza visitors couldn't make any bigger advantage as the host always was enough close to threat. Terrance Johnosn of Besancon was unstoppable and he was one of the main reasons why St-Etienne had to give its 100% until the end. With lot of efforts at the defensive end St-Etienne succeeded to enter into the last quarter with plus 9. During the last ten minutes visitors totally controlled rhythm of the game keeping advantage until the very end.

Mohamed Hachad was in a starting five of his team spending 33 minutes on court. He scored 19 points and grabbed 5 rebounds. At the same time he had a solid shot percentage: 1/2 FT, 3/4 FG2, 4/7 3-pts.

St-Etienne will have a chance on Saturday at their home court to reach the final of Pro B.

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NBA

Badiane set to play for the Grizzlies in the NBA Summer League -by Kristian Santiago

Malick Badiane (211-F/C-84) headed to Dallas a few days ago to get in shape for the upcoming NBA Summer League where he should be playing for the Memphis Grizzlies.
The Senegalese is currently practicing with DeSagana Diop (213-C-83) and other players, thanks to his contacts to the Mavs' director of scouting Gallo Fall.
He had a difficult start into the last season after receiving barely time on the court in Dijon and transferred to Saint Vallier Basket Drome in the French Pro B where he gained back his confidence and excelled on the floor while averaging 11,3 ppg and 9,4 rpg and saved the team of being relegated to a lower league.

If he won't be signed by the Grizzlies, who are currently holding his draft rights, badiane may head back to Europe for a lucrative contract.



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NCAA1

Maryland releases Gilchrist for scholarship -by Eurobasket News
Maryland announced on Wednesday that they released Gus Gilchrist from his scholarship. Gilchrist is an incoming freshman who supposed to be one of the key players of Maryland next season. The 6-9, 235-pound Gilchrist showed himself as a good scorer on high school. Terrapins looked to Gilchrist to fill some scoring void after leaving of James Gist, who graduated this year.

A judge said a simple assault charge against South Carolina sophomore guard Devan Downey (5'9''-G-87, college: Cincinnati) has been dropped. Magistrate Clevette Hudnell said she dismissed the charge against the Gamecocks' leading scorer Wednesday during a court hearing after the accuser asked that the charge be dropped.

Gurganious leaves Gonzaga -by Eurobasket News
Larry Gurganious (6'5''-F) is transferring from Gonzaga. The player announced he would like to transfer to a school closer to his family in Oakland. He did not have enough chance to play last season in Gonzaga. For 26 appearances he had 3.3 ppg and 2.6 rpg.

With Gonzaga Gurganious was a WCC tournament winner twice. They participated at NCAA Sweet 16 on 2005/2006. Last season Gonzaga was WCC regular season champion and played in the final of WCC tournament.

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NEW ZEALAND

Standings Men
NBL Standings
 1. Wellington 14-4 
 2. Waikato 13-5 
 3. Harbour Heat 11-6 
 4. Nelson 10-6 
 5. G&H Hawks 10-7 
 6. Auckland 9-9 
 7. Taranaki 8-9 
 8. Canterbury 5-12 
 9. Manawatu 4-13 
 10. Otago 2-15 


Nenad Vucinic will coach in Estonia -by Eurobasket News
Nenad Vucinic was awarded with the head coach position in Kalev/Cramo team in Estonia. The Tall Blacks head coach will now work for both Kalev and New Zealand National men's team. Nenad Vucinic stepped up as the Tall Blacks head coach last season. Previously he led the Nelson Giants to the NBL title. He left for Europe at the moment to finish all paper work. The deal is meant for 2 years. Kalev is one of two Estonian powerhouses alongside TU/Rock. This season Kalev was swept by TU/Rock in the National championship finals. Kalev also participate in the ULEB Cup as well as in the Baltic League.

Waikato snap losing streak -by Eurobasket News
Auckland - Waikato 79:94

The Waikato Pistons snapped a three-game losing streak beating the Stars in Auckland. Brian Wethers (194-F/G-80, college: California) sparked the win with 30 points. Jason Crowe (193-G-76, college: Cal.St. Northridge) was helpful as usual with 26 points, 6 boards and 5 assists for the winners. The hosts kept it close throughout the major part of the game before Casey Frank (203-F-77, college: N.Arizona) was forced out of the game with 5 personal fouls. He picked up his third foul followed by a technical one midway through the third stanza. And when Kenny Stone introduced him to action late in the quarter Frank immediately earned the fifth foul and went to the bench. Auckland remained three points behind the visitors early in the fourth term but not for long though. The Pistons used a couple of fastbreaks to stretch the gap to double digits and never looked back. Puke Lenden (195-G-80) provided 11 points for the Pistons in a win. Tyrone Davey (188-G-86) and Dylan Perfect-Tait (189-G-87) scored 16 points apiece for the Stars. Dillon Boucher (196-G-75) contributed 10 points for the hosts in a loss.
Auckland looked better at early stages of the game as they finished the first frame ahead 27:23. Jason Crowe scored 19 points in the first half most of them in the second period when the Pistons surged in front. But the Stars still managed to maintain a 5-point advantage at halftime. Waikato made the push in the third stanza when Brian Wethers fired consecutive trebles to put the visiting team up for good. The Pistons thus secured the second spot in the ladder and home-court advantage in the semifinal stage of the playoffs.

Auckland: Tyrone Davey 16, Dylan Perfect-Tait 16, Dillon Boucher 10
Waikato: Brian Wethers 30, Jason Crowe 26, Puke Lenden 11

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PUERTO RICO

Standings - BSN
BSN Standings
Super 6
1. Carolina 19
2. Santurce 17
3. Caguas 16
4. Arecibo 16
5. Guaynabo 14
6. Fajardo 11
Others
1. Bayamon 16-16
2. Humacao 16-16
3. Ponce 15-17
4. San German 15-17
5. Mayaguez 7-25
6. Guayama 6-26


Criollos slip past the Cariduros -by Luis Ramirez
The Caguas Criollos won by the minimum over the Fajardo Cariduros 98-97. The 1st half belonged to the Cariduros as they took the 1st quarter 25-23 and the 2nd quarter 30-19, thus the half ended 55-42. In the 2nd half it was the Criollos who had a great offensive run in the 3rd quarter 33-21 to trim the lead, 76-75. The Criollos just barely got past the Cariduros in the 4th to take the win. For Caguas, Ricardo Melendez (180-G-83) scored 29 points followed by Bryan Bracey with 21 points. For Fajardo, Javier Mojica (190-G-84, college: Cent.Conn.St.) and Christian Vazquez (183-G-85) both scored 22 points. With this loss Fajardo is now out of contention and is currently last in the Super 6 standings.

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RUSSIA

Dynamo Moscow inks Hollis Price -by Eurobasket News
It seems that Dynamo Moscow once again will have the biggest ambitions for the next season. After signed contract extension with Sergei Monya, Dynamo Moscow got another reinforcement. It is USA point guard Hollis Price (186-G-79, college: Oklahoma), who played previous season in Lietuvos Rytas.

Price is the first new player which Dynamo signed for the season 08/09. Before him the team agreed terms with well respected coach David Blatt.

Price had successful previous season with Lietuvos Rytas. The team reached Euroleague TOP 16 and was very close to qualify for the pay-off quarterfinals. At the same time Rytas played in the final of Baltic league, Lithuanian league and Lithuanian National Cup. Unfortunately to Hollis Price and this team Zalgiris Kaunas won these three titles. He was the third scorer in Euroleague last season. For 20 games he averaged 16.9 ppg, 2.2 rpg and 3.9 apg. He got the award All-Euroleague Honorable Mention -08 by Eurobasket.com.

Before Rytas, Price spent one year in Spanish ACB league as a member of Caja San Fernando Sevilla. A year before he won German National Cup with ALBA Berlin. The team also finished regular season on top but couldn't made it in the play-off final. With French Pro A team Le Mans Sarhe Basket, Price also was a champion of regular season but his team was stopped at the semis. However, Le Mans became a National Cup winner on season 03/04.

The contract will keep Price in Dynamo until the end of the season 09/10.

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SAINT KITTS

HITTERS BRINGS IN THE HEAVY ARTILLERY FOR BIG MATCH-UP VERSUS GHETTO ROOTS -by Richard
Multi-time SKABA Champions the Rams Hitters are leaving no stones unturned for this weekend's much anticipated clash with the undefeated Horsfords Ghetto Roots. The 2007 finals runners-up have been hard at work with almost daily practice sessions as they come up against the surging and extremely talented Horsfords Ghetto Roots. Horsfords Ghetto Roots have been enjoying a successful season thus far having won all their games very comfortably. The team, which boasts several former and current national players, is seen by most as the deepest and most talented team in the league. However they will have the ultimate test on Sunday when they face the Hitters team who has flew in their 7 foot oversees based Barry University big man Jerran 'Yow' Morris. Morris gained a scholarship some two years ago to play College basketball firstly with a two year college in Western Oklahoma State then he went on to join a 4 year programme with the Barry University Cougars in Florida.
At almost 7 feet tall Jerran is easily the most imposing figure in SKABA and his presence will be sure to have an impact on the game. It is widely speculated that at least one other overseas based Hitters player will be in for the game as well.
Based on the performances of both teams thus far in the season most basketball pundits have declared that this weekends match-up is a definite SKABA finals preview.
Hitters strength lies in the play of veterans Trevor 'Marty' Huggins and Shawn 'Shabba' Forbes. At 43 Marty is the oldest player in the league and still the best shooter. Horsfords Ghetto Roots must ensure that Marty does not have another one of his spectacular nights from behind the arc. Shawn Forbes is the energizer bunny for hitters. He is an exceptional player who works the boards and is as good offensively as he is defensively. He is a 6'5' forward but moves around and often plays like a 6' guard. This often creates problems for opposing teams especially on the defensive end. However these two players can also be the weakness of the team as both or at least one will have to have a good game in order for the team to have a chance against Horsfords Ghetto Roots
Horsfords Ghetto Roots exudes talent from top to bottom. The team's strength is its mix of young, talented and experienced players. Once the team is able to remain focused and unified they will make easy work of Hitters. However any breakdown in team unity can adversely affect the performance and success of the team.
Both teams will be bearing a great deal of pressure as Hitters will be expected to do well especially with the inclusion of oversees based Jerran Morris. Horsfords Ghetto Roots has been a much talked about team and they will be looked upon to live up to the hype.

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SAUDI ARABIA

The Saudi Basketball Season Ends on a Successful Note -by Ali Ahmed

The conclusion of the FIBA Asia Club Championships signalled the end of the Saudi basketball season. first was Al ansar surprising run to dethrone Al Ittihad, who have dominated the league for many years, to claim their first league title. While Al Ittihad, even though they lost the league crown, still ended the season on successful note. After losing out in the league championships, they came back strong to claim league cup for under 23years old. Another surprising was to Al Halil team who won the cup. So congratulations to Al Ansar Club, Al Ittihad and Al Halil for their accomplishments this season. All teams are now off on holiday, while the Saudi Basketball Federation irons out the particulars on the import rules and other finer details for the upcoming season. We look forward to the opening of the 2008-2009 campaign.

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SENEGAL

Badiane set to play for the Grizzlies in the NBA Summer League -by Kristian Santiago

Malick Badiane (211-F/C-84) headed to Dallas a few days ago to get in shape for the upcoming NBA Summer League where he should be playing for the Memphis Grizzlies.
The Senegalese is currently practicing with DeSagana Diop (213-C-83) and other players, thanks to his contacts to the Mavs' director of scouting Gallo Fall.
He had a difficult start into the last season after receiving barely time on the court in Dijon and transferred to Saint Vallier Basket Drome in the French Pro B where he gained back his confidence and excelled on the floor while averaging 11,3 ppg and 9,4 rpg and saved the team of being relegated to a lower league.

If he won't be signed by the Grizzlies, who are currently holding his draft rights, badiane may head back to Europe for a lucrative contract.



*****************************************************
SERBIA

Hero of TAU Ceramica - Igor Rakocevic -by Dragan Jankovski

Member of Serbian National Team, Igor Rakocevic (191-G-78), captured the tile in Spanish ACB league with his TAU Ceramica.

AXA Barcelona suffered terror in the play-off final which TAU finished 3-0. Before Barca, TAU knocked out Unicaja Malaga and Pamesa Valencia. After first two games in Palau Blaugrana, TAU was already seen as a new champion. It is the first ACB title for TAU since 2002.

In interview which Rakocevic gave to Serbian media he stated that his team played in fantastic shape during the last month.

'We were the best when it was the most important. We have 10 totally equal players in the roster what is huge quality for my team. One month before the end of the season we touched the best shape. Finally it was clear that starting five should be Prigioni, Rakocevic, Mickael, Teletovic and Splitter. TAU is a big team and this season for sure is one of the best in its history. We captured the title in Spanish SuperCup at the beginning and now we are the champions of ACB league. Beside these two titles we also participated on Euroleague Final 4 and we played in the final of very important 'Copa del Rey' - said Rakocevic.

He continued: 'My task in TAU is to score and I am doing it. At the same time I am trying to find a way which will help TAU the most. I think that I improved my defense drastically this season. I am very proud because of that as I wanted to become a top player also at the defensive end.'

Before the play-off Rakocevic had 30 appearances in ACB regular season averaging 14.8 ppg, 1.9 rpg and 1.5 apg. For 22 games in Euruleague he had almost the same digits: 14.9 ppg, 2.3 rpg and 1.7 apg.

With 16 ppg Rakocevic is the top scorer of ACB play-off.



Young Dusan Katnic shines against NT of Iran -by Dragan Jankovski
Mega Aqua Monta from Belgrade was better that National Team of Iran in friendly game 78-75. Young Serbian prospect Dusan Katnic (193-G-89), who has won two gold medals on U18 and U19 European Championship last summer, smashed Iranians leading his team to win with 23 points. He was unstoppable from behind the arc draining 5 of his 8 attempts.

In very interesting game until the end the hosts celebrated despite the team played without Mitrovic and Grujic, who are currently with Serbian junior National Team. Iran showed itself as a very dangerous opponent. They had a chance to win until the end but young Katnic and his teammates had strong willingness to beat them. At the end they demonstrated nice quality deserving to win against team from Asia.

As it is mentioned above, hot prospect Dusan Katnic, who was one of the key players of Serbian U18 and U19 National Team last summer, paced the winners scoring 23 points. He had 5 triples while his team made 13 of 29 attempts in total. Strahinja Dragicevic (194-F-86) also had a good night scoring 17 points while promising shooting guard Stefan Stojacic (192-G-89) netted 15 points. Point guard Igor Mijajlovic (192-G-84, agency: Beo Basket) followed them adding 11 points. Estameh was the best player for Team Iran scoring 18 points. Bahgami score one point less than him. The last player with double digits for Iranians was Daresari, who had 10 points.

Mega Aqua Monta - IRAN 78-75

Mega AM: Katnic, 23, Dragicevic 17 Stojacic 15, Mijajlovic 11, Nikolic 5, Maravic 5
IRAN: Estameh 18, Baghami 17, Daresari 10, Ehadadi 7

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SLOVAKIA

Late rally helps Inter to even Final series -by Eurobasket News
Inter - Pezinok 96:87

Inter celebrated their first win in the Final series against Pezinok. Inter prevailed in tight encounter in front of 2500 supportive fans in Bratislava. The hosts got to a better start as due to Dusan Pandula (195-F-84) and Martin Micka (180-G-81, agency: Promotex) they grabbed a 20:16 lead at the end of the first frame. But things changed dramatically in the second stanza. Led by two American imports Glen Whisby (203-C/F-72, college: S.Mississippi) and Lorenzo Williams (191-G-84, college: Rice) Pezinok paved their way in front. They accounted for 31 points in the second term and surged ahead 47:36 at halftime. Inter failed to strike back right after the break as Pezinok wisely kept the home side at bay. The teams exchanged the blows and the visitors remained ahead 69:62 heading into the final stanza. However the hosts found their hero in Daniel Novak (201-F/G-78, agency: Interperformances). He bombarded the basket from downtown in the final frame fueling a saving comeback effort from Inter. The home team outscored the regular season champs 34:19 in the fourth period to pull away with a hard-fought win. Daniel Novak led all scorers with 33 points hitting 7 three-pointers. Martin Micka nailed 17 points, while Dusan Pandula dropped 16 points for the winners. Lorenzo Williams answered with 22 points for Pezinok. Glen Whisby contributed 21 points, while Lukjanec had 11 in a loss. The series now moves to Pezinok for the third game on Saturday.

Inter: Daniel Novak 33, Martin Micka 17, Dusan Pandula 16
Pezinok: Lorenzo Williams 22, Glen Whisby 21

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SLOVENIA

Seven Double-Figure Scorers Lead Olimpija to Victory in Game 3 -by Zeljko Zule
Union Olimpija had seven players reach in double-figures in the scoring column en route to a 99-81 win over Helios in Game 3 of Play-Off Finals. Ronell Taylor (196-G-82, college: UAB) netted 18 points, Jasmin Hukic 14, Miha Zupan 13, Chris Booker 12 and Goran Dragic, Marko Milic and Maurice Bailey 11 apiece. Olimpija shot 62 percent from the field (33-of-53) but Taylor, Booker and Bailey were ejected for fighting during the last quarter. Olimpija in first quarter scored 8 consecutive points and in second period made a 11-2 run to lead 55-42 at half. Robert Troha led th guests with 15 points and Aljaz Janza and Alexei Lashkevich added 11 apiece.

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SPAIN

Spanish Federation dismisses NT Head Coach!!! -by Natxo Mendaza
Spain's world championship-winning coach Jose Vicente Hernandez was on Tuesday relieved of his duties. Spanish basketball supremo Jose Luis Saez confirmed at a press conference in Madrid that the federation (FEB) had parted ways with the hugely popular tactician. The FEB also released the following statement on their website.

'Having analysed the situation created in the aftermath of Jose Vicente Hernandez's public statements of late, the Spanish Basketball Federation has decided that the national men's coach will not remain in charge and the reasons are as follows:

* Non-compliance from Jose Vicente Hernandez of the contractual agreements.
* A lack of respect to the FEB and to its executive members made in public without foundation while also stating accusations of 'persecution' and 'mistreatment'.
* The poor working conditions created by the previous two points with less than two months to go before the national team competes in the most important sporting event (Beijing Games).

All of this has contributed to the deterioration which added to the strange circumstances already created on May 2 when a public and unilateral announcement of his decision to continue in charge until after the Olympics and it has inevitably led to the loss of trust needed to maintain the stability that the FEB has always tried to have with the 18 national teams and those who work with the teams.'

Storm clouds have been gathering over the national team for several weeks, since Hernandez announced he would relinquish the reins after the Olympics. Saez was unhappy by the manner of the announcement, and Hernandez's position as Spain coach became muddled. His position was on even shakier ground after he skipped a meeting with his bosses at the FEB. He called a press conference last week to declare his intention to coach Spain at the Olympics, but said he felt 'persecuted' by the FEB. Saez at the time said he wanted to review the comments made by Hernandez. On Monday, the coach said he expected to be sacked, telling Telemadrid: 'I feel that tomorrow (Tuesday), my dismissal will be made official.

'I feel calm because I haven't committed any serious offense. If the problem was my announcement (decision to step down after the Olympics), I did it with time and in a correct manner. 'And if it's due to the fact that I couldn't attend last week's meeting, I gave alternative times and dates to the federation.' Hernandez's departure has come as shock to basketball fans in Spain because he led the country to its proudest moment in the game - a gold medal win at the 2006 FIBA World Championship. He worked under incredible strain in Japan, where he led the country to gold after losing star player Pau Gasol to a serious foot injury in the semi-final win over Argentina. His father also died the day before the final. Last year, Hernandez's Spain suffered a last-second defeat to Russia in the gold medal game at the EuroBasket.

'I have no personal problems with Pepu,' Saez said. 'But he has used his position as national team coach to benefit himself without having the consent of the federation.' Saez said no one has been appointed as Hernandez's replacement. 'We have not found a successor,' Saez said. 'People have come forward, but no decision has been made and we will try to find a successor as soon as possible.' 'I am profoundly sad,' Hernandez said following the press conference. 'I wanted to do my job with the national team. I am sacked and from this moment on, I am at the service of the new coach.'

Spain had been due to announce their squad for Beijing on June 10, but that is now unlikely.

Source: FIBAEurope

Bruesa GBC extends three players -by Eurobasket News
Bruesa GBC announced contract extensions with Bernard Hopkins (199-F-73, college: Va Commonwealth), Ricardo Uriz (189-G-80) and Isaac Lopez (196-F/G-78).

Experienced Bernard Hopkins agreed terms with the team for one more season. Hopkins was one of the most important Bruesa's players in LEB Gold. He averaged 13.1 ppg and 5.9 rpg with 14.1 index value per game. In the past Hopkins was a member of Valladolid, Unelco Tenerife and Pamesa Valencia. On season 02/03 he became the ULEB Cup winner with Pamesa. The best moments in his career Hopkins had on season 03/04 when as a player of Tenerife he averaged 18.4 ppg and 7.6 rpg for 33 games in ACB.

Ricardo Uriz also extended contract with the team. Uriz is member of Bruesa since 2005 when he joined them from Lagun Aro Bilbao. Before Bilbao, he used to play for Zaragoza, Valladolid, Fuenlabrada and TAU. He was champion of LEB1 twice with Bilbao and Bruesa.

As Hopkins and Uriz, the team also renewed contract with Isaac Lopez for one more year. Lopez arrived to Bruesa during the summer 2007. A year before he had a successful season in Alerta Cantabria Lobos, who became the champion of LEB regular season. In 40 games he averaged 12.7 ppg and 2.5 rpg.

Bruesa GBC finished LEB Gold 07/08 registering 24 wins and 10 defeats.

ACB News -by Robert Mayor
- Demond Mallet (186-G-78, agency: Higher Vision Sports, college: Mc Neese St.) will continue one more season in DKV Joventut. Badalona team decided to extend the contract with American guard that averaged more than 10 points and 3 assits per game with Joventut becoming an important piece of catalonian club.

- Trifon Poch is new C.B. Granda coach. Trainner has signed a two years deal with club that decided not to resign Sergio Valdeolmillos last week. Poch arrives to Granada after one season out of benchs.

- Leonardo Mainoldi (205-C-85) is new Alta Gestion Fuenlabrada player after signing a four years deal with Madrid team. Argentinean forward completed a good season with Plus Pujol Lleida in LEB Gold and now will try to continue showing his quality at top level.

- Pamesa Valencia has also reached an agreement with Ruben Douglas (193-G-79, college: N.Mexico) that will continue one more season in club.

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TAIWAN

Players report to Jones Cup NT training camp -by Chris Wang
Players reported to the 35-day training camp for the 2008 Jones Cup tournament, the only major basketball event this year for Taiwan NT, on June 3.

Once again, they will be led by veteran Korean head coach Chung Kwon Suk, who led Taiwan to a 6th place finish last year in last year's Asian Championship.

However, Chung will inherit a team without the big-name players, among them Tien Lei, Chen Hsin-an and Lin Chih-chieh, who all pulled out of the national team due to injury.

Players who are out of the 2008 Taiwan NT included Chen Hsin-an, Tien Lei, Lin Chih-chieh, Tseng Wen-ting, Wu Tai-hao, Ho Shou-cheng, Chen Shih-nian, Chen Chih-chung and Chang Chih-feng. All of them were core players of the national squad in the past five years.

Taiwanese-American James Mao, who was going to be called up as a replacement player, could not play in the Jones Cup either because of right foot injury.

That means the 2008 Taiwan NT will be a young and inexperinced team which consists mostly those who had less than three years of international competition experience.

The original 24-man team is now down to 16 players which are listed as follow:

Taiwan Beer: Yang Chin-min, Hsu Hao-cheng
Yulon: Lee Chi-yi, Yang Che-yi, Lee Hsueh-lin, Lu Cheng-ju
dmedia: Ouyang Ching-heng
Dacin: Yue Yin-li, Lee Feng-yong, Chen Tzu-wei, Wang Chih-chun
Pure Youth: Chien Chia-hong, Wu Chian-lung, Lin Chin-pang
Bank of Taiwan: Hsu Chih-chan

Former Taiwan NT players Cheng Chih-lung and Chou Jun-san will serve as assistants.

Ten teams are expected to play in the men's competition in the 2008 Jones Cup, which will be played in Sinjhuang Stadium, Taipei County next month. The tourney is scheduled to tip off on July 10 but the participating teams and the game schedule have yet to be announced by the CTBA.

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TURKEY

Fenerbahce triumphs in TBL -by Eurobasket News
Fenerbahce - Turk Telecom 90:79

Fenerbahce successfully defended their TBL title beating Turk Telecom in Game 5 of the finals and completing a 4-1 win in the series. The hosts arrived to Istanbul having stolen a narrow in the fourth game and leading 3 games to 1. Turk Telecom had their backs against the wall in this one but could not come up with heroics at hostile territory. Fenerbahce were driven by a supportive crowd and got aggressive right from the start. Omer Onan (194-G-78, agency: Interperformances) and Semih Erden (211-C-87) quickly built a 10:4 lead for the hosts. Omer Onan and Will Solomon (187-G-78, college: Clemson) kept on delivering the points and led Fenerbahce to a 16:6 advantage. Turk Telecom struggled to find the right rhythm and appeared trailing by 9 points at the end of the first frame. Erwin Dudley and Baris Ozcan cut the gap to 6 points early in the second period. But the home team reacted with an 8:0 run to clear off to a 14-point distance. Kris Lang (211-F/C-79, agency: SportsTalent, college: N.Carolina) and Khalid El-Amin (178-G-79, agency: Beo Basket, college: Connecticut) ignited a 9:1 run from the visitors to stay in a striking range at 30:36. Demir Kaan fired from downtown to give Fenerbahce a 39:30 lead. The hosts maintained the margin and led by 10 points at the interval 50:40. Omer Asik (211-C-86) and Omer Onan stretched the gap to 16 points early in the third period. But some vital attempts from Tutku Acik kept Turk Telecom in the game as they trailed by 10 points at the end of the third frame. However the battle never heated up in the fourth term. Omer Onan quickly propelled Fenerbahce to a 14-point distance and the home team repelled any comeback efforts from Turk Telecom. Omer Onan scored 20 points to lead Fenerbahce. Semih Erden provided 14 points, while James White (198-G-84, college: Cincinnati) knocked down 12 points in a win. Kris Lang answered with 19 points and 9 boards for Turk Telecom. Khalid El-Amin accounted for 16 points in defeat.

Fenerbahce: Omer Onan 20, Semih Erden 14, James White 12
Turk Telecom: Kris Lang 19, Khalid El-Amin 16

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U.S.VIRGIN ISLANDS

2008 ABA SCHEDULE -by David Edole
Fri Jun 6 Top Dogs vs Heavy Hitters 7:00pm BCB
Fri Jun 6 One Time vs T.W.I. 8:45pm BCB

Sat Jun 7 Run Dem vs VI Finest 7:00pm BCB
Sat Jun 7 Jah Youths vs Jam Squad 8:45pm BCB

Tue Jun 10 Heavy Hitters vs Jah Youths 7:00pm BCB
Tue Jun 10 Jam Squad vs Run Dem 8:45pm BCB

Thu Jun 12 VI Finest vs One Time 7:00pm BCB
Thu Jun 12 T.W.I. vs Top Dogs 8:45pm BCB

Fri Jun 13 One Time vs Heavy Hitters 7:00pm BCB
Fri Jun 13 T.W.I. vs Jam Squad 8:45pm BCB

Sat Jun 14 Top Dogs vs VI Finest 7:00pm BCB
Sat Jun 14 Jah Youths vs Run Dem 8:45pm BCB

Tue Jun 17 VI Finest vs Jah Youths 7:00pm BCB
Tue Jun 17 Run Dem vs One Time 8:45pm BCB

Thu Jun 19 Jam Squad vs Top Dogs 7:00pm BCB
Thu Jun 19 Heavy Hitters vs T.W.I. 8:45pm BCB

Fri Jun 20 Heavy Hitters vs VI Finest 7:00pm BCB
Fri Jun 20 T.W.I. vs Run Dem 8:45pm BCB

Sat Jun 21 Top Dogs vs Jah Youths 7:00pm BCB
Sat Jun 21 One Time vs Jam Squad 8:45pm BCB

Tue Jun 24 Run Dem vs Top Dogs 7:00pm BCB
Tue Jun 24 Jah Youths vs One Time 8:45pm BCB

Thu Jun 26 N0 Games
Thu Jun 26 N0 Games

Fri Jun 27 VI Finest vs T.W.I. 7:00pm BCB
Fri Jun 27 Jam Squad vs Heavy Hitters 8:45pm BCB

Sat Jun 28 Run Dem vs Heavy Hitters 7:00pm BCB
Sat Jun 28 Top Dogs vs One Time 8:45pm BCB

Tue Jul 1 VI Finest vs Jam Squad 7:00pm BCB
Tue Jul 1 Jah Youths vs T.W.I. 8:45pm BCB

Thu Jul 3 No Games
Thu Jul 3 No Games

Fri Jul 4 No Games
Fri Jul 4 No Games

Sat Jul 5 Top Dogs vs Heavy Hitters 7:00pm BCB
Sat Jul 5 One Time vs T.W.I. 8:45pm BCB

Tue Jul 8 Run Dem vs VI Finest 7:00pm BCB
Tue Jul 8 Jah Youths vs Jam Squad 8:45pm BCB

Thu Jul 10 VI Finest Top Dogs 7:00pm BCB
Thu Jul 10 Jah Youths vs One Time 8:45pm BCB

Fri Jul 11 Run Dem Heavy Hitters 7:00pm BCB
Fri Jul 11 Jam Squad vs T.W.I. 8:45pm BCB

Sat Jul 12 ALL Star Game 7:30pm BCB
Slam-Dunk ($100)
3-point Shoot-out

Tue Jul 15 Play-offs Begin




The top six (6) teams will be eligible for the play-offs.
The 1st and 2nd place team will get a Bye
3rd place will play 6th and 4th place will play 5th
1st place will play the winner of 3 & 6 and 2nd place will play winner 4 & 5
All players must play at least 3 games in order to play in the play-offs
First two rounds of the play-off series will be the best of three (3)
Championship series will be the best of 5
All ties will be determined by the head to head match-up or points differential
Game forfeiture will be declared after a 15 minutes grace period

ABA Standings
ABA Standings
1. Jam Squad 0-0
2. To Win It 0-0
3. Run Dem 0-0
4. Jah Youths 0-0
5. VI Finest 0-0
6. Heavy Hitters 0-0
7. One Time 0-0
8. Top Dogs 0-0


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UKRAINE

Pustahvar to Lviv / Ukrainian youngsters to Treviso -by Alexander Muzyka
- Politekhnika-Halychyna has officially announced Aliaksandr Pustahvar (200-G/F-85) will defend their colours next season. Second Russian Superleague B sniper (19,5 ppg for Sojuz) will be the one more Belorussian native in Valentin Voronin's team.

- Viacheslav Kravtsov (210-C-87), Maksym Vilkhovetskyi (190-G-88), Oleksandr Kolchenko (200-F/G-88), Maksym Kornienko (201-F/C-87) will perform theirselves at Reebok EuroCamp in Treviso as well as Georgian BC Kyiv's guard Manuchar Markoishvili (196-G-86) as NBA Draft Eligible player.

- Rumours site basket.com.ua set BC Kyiv and Tomo Mahoric can part ways.

*****************************************************
VENEZUELA

Go with your music to somewhere else -by Yelitza La Torre
Marines didn't like Gaitas. Marinos de Anzoategui defeated Gaiteros Del Zulia 91-84 yesterday in their Port at Luis Ramos Arena. Marinos reached its victory number 23 of this 2008 LPB tournament, while Gaiteros still keeps its hopes to go into the play off.
Axiers Sucre led Marinos with 22 points and 16 rebounds helped at this time for Jermaine Walker with 24 points. The new foreign for Marinos, Matt Gibson did his part with 14 points and 4 assists.
Ruben Nembhard was the best player for Gaiteros with 21 digits followed by Juan Jose Bravo (200-C-86) whom made 12 points.

Standings - LPB
LPB Standings
 1. Trotamundos 32-6 
 2. Cocodrilos 26-13 
 3. Gaiteros 24-15 
 4. Guaiqueries 23-14 
 5. Marinos 23-16 
 6. Gatos 22-14 
 7. Guaros 15-25 
 8. Dep.Tachira 12-27 
 9. Panteras 8-31 
 10. Gigantes 8-32 


*****************************************************
WCBPL

Player Status -by Melissa McGinnis
Tyler Newton of the Santa Barbara Breakers sustained an ankle injury last week that will sideline him for 2-4 weeks. He will not play anymore games for the Breakers this season but will be ready for his next season overseas. Newton was averaging 9 rebounds and just less than 18 points a game for the Breakers. In his place, the Breakers signed Adam Zahn who recently played in overseas in Norway. Zahn played in the IBL for the Eugene Chargers last year when Coach Pickering noticd his talents.

Another win for the Breakers -by Melissa McGinnis
On Saturday the Santa Barbara Breakers took on the Ventura Jets for the third time this season and defeated them once again. The Jets did put up a fight for 50 minutes of the game and held the lead late in the fourth quarter, but were eventually out scored for a final score of 113-108. For the Breakers Tim Taylor, Justin Johnson, Josh Merrill, and Adam Zahn all scored in the double digits, 19, 18, 16, and 15 respectively. Rashyd Bird and Allan Purnell both scored 13 and Mark Peters brought in 11. For the Jets Small had 34 points, Dant Lincoln had 26, and Julius Samuels had 21.

Standings
WCBPL Standings
 1. Santa Barbara 14-0 
 2. High Desert 4-2 
 3. Maywood B. 1-0 
 4. Pasadena 1-2 
 5. Carlsbad 0-2 
 6. Hollywood 0-3 
 7. Ventura 0-5 
 8. Newport Beach 0-5 


*****************************************************
ZIMBABWE

Regional Basketball Champs roars into life -by Gracey Chirumanzu
THE long awaited Zone VI Federation of International Basketball Association Under-18 Championships will explode into life in Harare, tomorrow.
The tournament, initially set to feature ten countries, has been reduced to a tri-nations series following a boycott of other regional countries under unclear circumstances.
Mozambique (boys and girls), Angola girls and the host (boys and girls) will race for honors in the five-day tournament.
'These are the events we never experienced at our early ages playing basketball and we want to make sure the youngsters get as much exposure as possible. The Zone Six Championships will stimulate our junior development and it is also gives us a challenge to sharpen our administrative skills,' Basketball Union of Zimbabwe president, Addison Chiware was quoted in April when his Union won the bid to host the ten countries.
It appears the local teams will not be gaining the much-needed exposure as anticipated before, but they stand a good chance of qualifying for the African Champions, to be held later this year.
The ultimate winner of the round robin game series will represent the zone in the continental showdown as the event serve as qualifiers.
Angola boys have automatically qualified by virtue of being the defending champions.




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Women News

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ARGENTINA - Women

Japan beats Argentina to clinch third spot at Alcobendas tournament -by Eurobasket News
Japan - Argentina 60:55

Japanese National team grabbed their first win at the Torneo Alcobendas in Spain. Thus they clinched the third spot in the final ladder. In Bronze medals game Japan outpaced Argentina. Argentina led
early in the game as Marcela Paoletta (170-G-79) led the charge. The Latin American outfit held to a 4:2 lead midway through the first frame. The teams teamed up for only 15 points in the quarter and Argentina enjoyed an 8:7 advantage heading into the second stanza. They stretched the gap to 4 points midway through the second frame but Japan quickly rebounded. An impressive work on the boards from the Asian side allowed them to roll to a 28:23 cushion at the interval. Japan kept on mounting the pressure. They opened the third quarter confidently and soon reached a 14-point advantage. But Argentina refused to surrender as they fought back to cut the deficit to 5 points at the end of three quarter time. Argentinean team came as close as 4 points in the final period but Japan withstood the effort and celebrated a narrow victory at the end. Noriko Koiso led well-balanced Japanese offense with 10 points and 8 boards. Naomi Yashiro (182-C-77) scored 8 points, while Al Mitani (181-F-78), Kumiko Yamada (192-F-79) and Yuko Oga (170-G-82) notched 6 points each for the winners. Marcela Paoletta answered with game-high 21 points. Erica Sanchez (182-F/C-76) provided 20 points and 10 boards in a losing effort. Japan outrebounded their opponents 49:34 and shot 33% from the field. Argentina replied with 32% accuracy of field goals.

Japan: Noriko Koiso 10, Naomi Yashiro 8
Argentina: Marcela Paoletta 21, Erica Sanchez 20+10 boards

*****************************************************
AUSTRALIA - Women

Jackson top-scores, not enough for the Storm -by Eurobasket News
Lauren Jackson (196-F/C-81) top-scored in the last two games for her Storm, however her effort was not enough for the win. Katie Smith came up with season-high 33 points on her 34th birthday to lead the Shock to a confident victory over the Storm yesterday. Katie Smith received her Olympic team jersey before the game and was inspired just the right way to propel Detroit to the 6th win in the season. Lauren Jackson answered with 27 points for the Storm as they lost the second straight game. Deanna Nolan scored 14 points, while Cheryl Ford contributed 8 points and 11 boards for the winners. Swin Cash had 10 points in her appearance against the team she played for 5 years. The visitors got to a better start of the game. They accumulated a 23:13 lead early in the second stanza but from there on it was the Shock that dominated. They outgunned the Storm 25:10 in the reminder of the stanza to grab a 5-point lead at halftime. The hosts stretched the gap to 10 points at the start of the third period. Seattle however remained in the contest as they cut the deficit to 3 points with just over 2 minutes remaining. Katie Smith immediately knocked down a three-pointer and then added a jumper to give the home side a safe 8-point cushion. The Storm never recovered in the dying moments and suffered a sour loss at the end. Detroit outrebounded the visitors 38:29 and forced those to 16 turnovers. Seattle at the same time were more accurate from the field converting 41%.
Two days ago Shameka Christon matched her career best with 25 points to pace the New York Liberty to a confident 77:63 victory over the Seattle Storm. The hosts jumped to a quick start and piled up a 16-point lead early in the game. The Strom however denied it trailing by just 2 points at the interval. Nevertheless Christon kept forcing the issue as she knocked down 15 points in the second half and the hosts rolled to their 2nd win in the season. Janel McCarville dropped 12 points, while Moore nailed 9 points for the winners. Lauren Jackson had 19 points for the Storm. Swoopes produced 15 points and 9 boards in defeat.

*****************************************************
CANADA - Women

Etzella inks Katie Donovan -by Eurobasket News
Etzella from Luxemburg agreed terms with Katie Donovan (183-F-82). The 25 year old Canadian will leave T71 Dudelange replacing Ranela Skegro in Etzella. For 24 appearances in national championship this season Donovan averaged 22,79 ppg.

Donovan graduated on Illinois State University in USA. She was named to be in All-MVC 1st team 03/04. Last season she got an award All-Luxembourg League 2nd Team -07 by Eurobasket.com. Since 2004 Donovan is a member of Canadian National Team.

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CHINA - Women

Spain topples China in Torneo Alcobendas Final -by Eurobasket News
Spain - China 64:60

Spain handed a rare loss to China to clinch the Torneo Alcobendas title. China looks impressive down the line in their preparations for the Olympic Games but Spanish side used the home-court advantage to upset a dangerous opponents. Amaya Valdemoro (184-F-76) paced the hosts from the start as they grabbed an early 7:2 lead. Spain held the visitors to just 9 points in the opening stanza and enjoyed a 16:9 advantage. However Chinese players quickly adjusted their tempo and schemes to go on 11:4 run early in the second period evening the teams at 20. But an inspirational performance from Amaya Valdemoro allowed Spain to maintain a 28:24 lead at halftime. Valdemoro posted 14 points and 7 boards for Spain in the first half. Spaniards went on a 9:2 run midway through the third period to open up a double digit lead. China reacted as Nan Chen (197-C-83) and Liu Dan nailed some key buckets late in the quarter and China trailed by 5 points heading into the fourth term. The visitors closed the margin to a single point late in the game. But Amaya Valdemoro fired a triple to give Spain a 62:58 lead. Seconds later Elisa Aguilar (178-G-76, college: George Washington) sealed the winning outcome from charity stripe. Amaya Valdemoro led all scorers with 25 points. Elisa Aguilar added 13 points, while Ana Montanana (186-F-80, college: George Washington) had 10 in a win. Nan Chen answered with 19 points for China. Miao Li Jie (180-G-81) knocked down 14 points in a loss.

Spain: Amaya Valdemoro 25, Elisa Aguilar 13, Ana Montanana 10
China: Nan Chen 19, Miao Li Jie 14

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CZECH REPUBLIC - Women

Czech Republic nips New Zealand in Zlin -by Eurobasket News
Czech Republic - New Zealand 73:51

Czech Republic played another friendly game as the part of their buildup for the upcoming Olympic Qualifying tournament. They hosted New Zealand in Zlin and drove to a comfortable victory. Czech Republic were always in front however the Tall Ferns kept it close throughout the first half. The hosts piled up a 16:9 lead after the opening frame and the teams traded baskets early in the second frame. Later the home team launched an 18:8 run that put them in charge at halftime 41:26. The second half was a tight battle with the Kiwis staying contestant. However the experienced Czech team gradually built an advantage that reached a 17-point mark after three quarters of action. They limited the Tall Ferns to 11 points in the final quarter and finalized a cruising win at the end. Jana Vesela (194-F-83) provided 15 points to pace the hosts. Eva Viteckova (190-F-82), Edita Sujanova (190-C-85) and Romana Stehlikova (190-C-85) notched 10 points apiece for the winners. Micaela Cocks (173-G-86) topscored for the Kiwis with 9 points. Lisa Wallbutton (183-F-86) added 8 points in defeat. The Tall Ferns shot 35% from the field including 25% from beyond the arc. They also grabbed 11 offensive rebounds in a loss. The teams will meet again tonight in Luhacovice for the second friendly.

Czech Republic: Jana Vesela 15, Eva Viteckova 10, Edita Sujanova 10, Romana Stehlikova 10
New Zealand: Micaela Cocks 9, Lisa Wallbutton 8

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GERMANY - Women

German National Team roster announced -by Moritz Korff
Head Coach Imre Szittya named the roster for the German National Team today. The players, except Sarah Austmann (182-G/F-85), Margret Skuballa (185-F-87) and Linda Froehlich (188-F/C-79, college: UNLV), will meet for a training camp in Kienbaum near Berlin and start preparing for the EURO-qualifiers.

These players have been picked:
Sarah Austmann - evo NB Oberhausen
Romy Baer (187-F-87) - TV Saarlouis
Katja Bavendam (203-C-85) - last team: St.Francis College NY, USA
Anne Breitreiner (183-G/F-84) - last team: Lotos Gdynia, Poland
Annika Danckert (182-F-81) - TSV Noerdlingen
Linda Froehlich - Cras Basket Taranto, Italy
Magdalena von Geyr (180-F-84) - TSV Wasserburg
Petra Glaeser (194-F-81) - evo NB Oberhausen
Natalie Gohrke (180-F-83) - BC Pharmaserv Marburg
Lisa Koop (198-C-85, college: Winthrop) - BC Pharmaserv Marburg
Katharina Kuehn (191-C-80) - TSV Wasserburg
Sabine Loewe (193-C-82, college: San Diego) - Basket Club Bolzano, Italy
Lea Mersch (168-G-87) - evo NB Oberhausen
Alexandra Mueller (175-G-83) - last team: TSV Wasserburg
Roli-Ann Nikagbatse (176-G/F-84, college: Liberty) - Tiemme Porto Sant'Elpidio, Italy
Hicran Oezen (169-G-81) - BC Pharmaserv Marburg
Dorothea Richter (176-G-83) - last team: MiZo Pecs, Hungary
Margret Skuballa - BC Pharmaserv Marburg
Birte Thimm (180-F-87) - evo NB Oberhausen

Head Coach: Imre Szittya
Assistant Coach: John Bruhnke

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INDIA - Women

NRI Indian League -InSportz Arabian Gazelles to meet Blade Watches in the finals -by Anil Kumar


Sharon Thomas steered last year's runners-up InSportz Arabian Gazelles to a convincing 39:25 win over Euphoria Int'l Dubai Angels in the women division semi finals of the 3rd Indian Basketball League Tournament held on Saturday. InSportz hoopsters, who raced to 11-2 lead in the first quarter, started committing mistakes in the later part of the match. Dubai Angels, who lined up their experienced players like Deborah, Chloe, Christal and Sanjana in the first half, failed to combine well during the crucial moments. Gazelles, who played without their skipper Galbha, struggled in the second quarter when Sonu Tharakan made repeated inroads into their defence area. At the end of the second quarter Dubai Angels reduced their deficit to 4 points, 11:15.

Meenal gave the support Sharon was looking for and their effective combination made all the difference in the second half. Sharon alone scored 15 points continuously in the second half and the Gazelles enjoyed a 10-point lead, 27:17 at the end of the third quarter. Sharon notched 19 points while Harshana netted 8 and Rebecca contributed 7 points for the winners. Sonu Tharakan stood out for Dubai Angels scoring 7 points.

Blade watches didn't face much of a problem in overcoming DPS, Sharjah, 50:38, in the second Semi-Finals played at Al Shaab Sports Club, Sharjah. With Nandini Singh and Anitha Teresa probing through the opposition defence effectively, Blade watches raced to a 12:6 lead at the end of the first quarter and consolidated their position by leading 29:16 at half time. DPS showed improvement in the second half by scoring 22:21 but that was not enough to stop Blade Watches from reaching the finals. Nandini top scored for Blade Watches with 24 points while Anitha Teresa contributed 16 points for the winners. Juliet netted 16 points and her sister Jennet poured 8 points for the losers.

The finals between InSportz Arabian Gazelles and Blade Watches will be held on Friday, 30th at Al Shaab Sports Club, Sharjah from 3 p.m. onwards.

The 3rd Indian Basketball League is being supported by Dr. Sunny's Medical Centre, Sharjah, ETA Star, UAE Exchange, J Mart, Giordano Fashions, Blade Watches, Dhanya Group of Companies, Sharjah, Titan Shipping, Dubai; Clipsal, Sharjah, Euphoria Int'l Trading, Dubai, Geant Reinforced Plastics, Sharjah, The Oxford School, Dubai and Kurian & Eiffel Printing Services, Sharjah.

Results:
Blade Watches, Dubai: 50 (Nandini 24, Anita Teresa 16, Christine 5, Preethi 3, Swathy 2) beat DPS, Sharjah 38 (Juliet 16, Jennet 8, Keerthana 7, Fathima Afreen 3, Shreiya 2 and Vamika 2)

InSportz Arabian Gazelles: 39 (Sharon Thomas 19, Harshana 8, Rebecca 7, Meenal Bharathkumar 3, Anisha Sharma 2 ) beat Euphoria Int'l Dubai Angels: 25 (Sonu Tharakan 7, Stephanie 6, Chloe Dorothy 6, Deborah 2, Missy Mathews 2 and Sanjana Roy 2)


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ISRAEL - Women

Stats Leaders - Women
D1 Stats Leaders


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JAPAN - Women

Japan beats Argentina to clinch third spot at Alcobendas tournament -by Eurobasket News
Japan - Argentina 60:55

Japanese National team grabbed their first win at the Torneo Alcobendas in Spain. Thus they clinched the third spot in the final ladder. In Bronze medals game Japan outpaced Argentina. Argentina led
early in the game as Marcela Paoletta (170-G-79) led the charge. The Latin American outfit held to a 4:2 lead midway through the first frame. The teams teamed up for only 15 points in the quarter and Argentina enjoyed an 8:7 advantage heading into the second stanza. They stretched the gap to 4 points midway through the second frame but Japan quickly rebounded. An impressive work on the boards from the Asian side allowed them to roll to a 28:23 cushion at the interval. Japan kept on mounting the pressure. They opened the third quarter confidently and soon reached a 14-point advantage. But Argentina refused to surrender as they fought back to cut the deficit to 5 points at the end of three quarter time. Argentinean team came as close as 4 points in the final period but Japan withstood the effort and celebrated a narrow victory at the end. Noriko Koiso led well-balanced Japanese offense with 10 points and 8 boards. Naomi Yashiro (182-C-77) scored 8 points, while Al Mitani (181-F-78), Kumiko Yamada (192-F-79) and Yuko Oga (170-G-82) notched 6 points each for the winners. Marcela Paoletta answered with game-high 21 points. Erica Sanchez (182-F/C-76) provided 20 points and 10 boards in a losing effort. Japan outrebounded their opponents 49:34 and shot 33% from the field. Argentina replied with 32% accuracy of field goals.

Japan: Noriko Koiso 10, Naomi Yashiro 8
Argentina: Marcela Paoletta 21, Erica Sanchez 20+10 boards

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KBDL - Women

-by Thom McQueen


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LUXEMBOURG - Women

Etzella inks Katie Donovan -by Eurobasket News
Etzella from Luxemburg agreed terms with Katie Donovan (183-F-82). The 25 year old Canadian will leave T71 Dudelange replacing Ranela Skegro in Etzella. For 24 appearances in national championship this season Donovan averaged 22,79 ppg.

Donovan graduated on Illinois State University in USA. She was named to be in All-MVC 1st team 03/04. Last season she got an award All-Luxembourg League 2nd Team -07 by Eurobasket.com. Since 2004 Donovan is a member of Canadian National Team.

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NEW ZEALAND - Women

Czech Republic nips New Zealand in Zlin -by Eurobasket News
Czech Republic - New Zealand 73:51

Czech Republic played another friendly game as the part of their buildup for the upcoming Olympic Qualifying tournament. They hosted New Zealand in Zlin and drove to a comfortable victory. Czech Republic were always in front however the Tall Ferns kept it close throughout the first half. The hosts piled up a 16:9 lead after the opening frame and the teams traded baskets early in the second frame. Later the home team launched an 18:8 run that put them in charge at halftime 41:26. The second half was a tight battle with the Kiwis staying contestant. However the experienced Czech team gradually built an advantage that reached a 17-point mark after three quarters of action. They limited the Tall Ferns to 11 points in the final quarter and finalized a cruising win at the end. Jana Vesela (194-F-83) provided 15 points to pace the hosts. Eva Viteckova (190-F-82), Edita Sujanova (190-C-85) and Romana Stehlikova (190-C-85) notched 10 points apiece for the winners. Micaela Cocks (173-G-86) topscored for the Kiwis with 9 points. Lisa Wallbutton (183-F-86) added 8 points in defeat. The Tall Ferns shot 35% from the field including 25% from beyond the arc. They also grabbed 11 offensive rebounds in a loss. The teams will meet again tonight in Luhacovice for the second friendly.

Czech Republic: Jana Vesela 15, Eva Viteckova 10, Edita Sujanova 10, Romana Stehlikova 10
New Zealand: Micaela Cocks 9, Lisa Wallbutton 8

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NIGERIA - Women

Olayinka is victorious with Detroit -by Eurobasket News
Olayinka Sanni (188-C-86, college: W.Virginia) started in the first five for her Detroit last night. Her team mate Katie Smith came up with season-high 33 points on her 34th birthday to lead the Shock to a confident victory over the Storm yesterday. Katie Smith received her Olympic team jersey before the game and was inspired just the right way to propel Detroit to the 6th win in the season. Lauren Jackson answered with 27 points for the Storm as they lost the second straight game. Deanna Nolan scored 14 points, while Cheryl Ford contributed 8 points and 11 boards for the winners. Swin Cash had 10 points in her appearance against the team she played for 5 years. Olayinka Sanni averages 3.4 points per game and has 2.6 rebounds per game.
The visitors got to a better start of the game. They accumulated a 23:13 lead early in the second stanza but from there on it was the Shock that dominated. They outgunned the Storm 25:10 in the reminder of the stanza to grab a 5-point lead at halftime. The hosts stretched the gap to 10 points at the start of the third period. Seattle however remained in the contest as they cut the deficit to 3 points with just over 2 minutes remaining. Katie Smith immediately knocked down a three-pointer and then added a jumper to give the home side a safe 8-point cushion. The Storm never recovered in the dying moments and suffered a sour loss at the end. Detroit outrebounded the visitors 38:29 and forced those to 16 turnovers. Seattle at the same time were more accurate from the field converting 41%.

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SAINT KITTS - Women

Blue Devils are on top -by Eurobasket News
First Caribbean Blue Devils team overcame the Horsfords Lady Roots 49:35 to top the Natioanl Bank Female League standings. Leondra Cotton notched 15 points and 10 assists to lead the Blue Devils. Avril Mckoy added 8 points and 16 boards for the winners. The Blue Devils thus improved to 3-1 record. The Lady Roots have a polar result as they suffered their third defeat having won just one game. Tenelle Lapsey, a netball star, led the losing side with 14 points and 12 boards. Shuntelle Wilkinson provided 13 caroms in defeat.
In another game in the League the Lady Tuff Knotts snatched a 43:40 victory from the Lad Spartans. Gloria Esdaille led the charge with 22 points. Amanda French delivered 9 points, 7 boards, 2 steals and 2 assists for the winners. Talissa Browne answered with 8 points and 25 boards and 4 blocks for the Lady Spartans. Amy Guishard topscored for the Lady Spartans with 12 points.

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SPAIN - Women

Spain topples China in Torneo Alcobendas Final -by Eurobasket News
Spain - China 64:60

Spain handed a rare loss to China to clinch the Torneo Alcobendas title. China looks impressive down the line in their preparations for the Olympic Games but Spanish side used the home-court advantage to upset a dangerous opponents. Amaya Valdemoro (184-F-76) paced the hosts from the start as they grabbed an early 7:2 lead. Spain held the visitors to just 9 points in the opening stanza and enjoyed a 16:9 advantage. However Chinese players quickly adjusted their tempo and schemes to go on 11:4 run early in the second period evening the teams at 20. But an inspirational performance from Amaya Valdemoro allowed Spain to maintain a 28:24 lead at halftime. Valdemoro posted 14 points and 7 boards for Spain in the first half. Spaniards went on a 9:2 run midway through the third period to open up a double digit lead. China reacted as Nan Chen (197-C-83) and Liu Dan nailed some key buckets late in the quarter and China trailed by 5 points heading into the fourth term. The visitors closed the margin to a single point late in the game. But Amaya Valdemoro fired a triple to give Spain a 62:58 lead. Seconds later Elisa Aguilar (178-G-76, college: George Washington) sealed the winning outcome from charity stripe. Amaya Valdemoro led all scorers with 25 points. Elisa Aguilar added 13 points, while Ana Montanana (186-F-80, college: George Washington) had 10 in a win. Nan Chen answered with 19 points for China. Miao Li Jie (180-G-81) knocked down 14 points in a loss.

Spain: Amaya Valdemoro 25, Elisa Aguilar 13, Ana Montanana 10
China: Nan Chen 19, Miao Li Jie 14

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WNBA - Women

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


Detroit topples Seattle at the Auburn Hills -by Eurobasket News
Detroit - Seattle 77:67

Katie Smith (5'11''-G-74, college: Ohio St.) came up with season-high 33 points on her 34th birthday to lead the Shock to a confident victory over the Storm yesterday. Katie Smith received her Olympic team jersey before the game and was inspired just the right way to propel Detroit to the 6th win in the season. Lauren Jackson (6'5''-F/C-81) answered with 27 points for the Storm as they lost the second straight game. Deanna Nolan (5'11''-G/F-79, college: Georgia) scored 14 points, while Cheryl Ford (6'3''-F/C-81, college: Louisiana Tech) contributed 8 points and 11 boards for the winners. Swin Cash (6'2''-F-79, college: Connecticut) had 10 points in her appearance against the team she played for 5 years. Swin Cash won two titles with the Shock before being traded to Seattle. The visitors got to a better start of the game. They accumulated a 23:13 lead early in the second stanza but from there on it was the Shock that dominated. They outgunned the Storm 25:10 in the reminder of the stanza to grab a 5-point lead at halftime. The hosts stretched the gap to 10 points at the start of the third period. Seattle however remained in the contest as they cut the deficit to 3 points with just over 2 minutes remaining. Katie Smith immediately knocked down a three-pointer and then added a jumper to give the home side a safe 8-point cushion. The Storm never recovered in the dying moments and suffered a sour loss at the end. Detroit outrebounded the visitors 38:29 and forced those to 16 turnovers. Seattle at the same time were more accurate from the field converting 41%.

Detroit: Katie Smith 33, Deanna Nolan 14, Cheryl Ford 8+11 boards
Seattle: Lauren Jackson 27, Swin Cash 10