EUROBASKET NEWS REPORT - 7/2/2008

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Men News

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  ABA   


Last ABA teams and personnel news - by Gianni Pascucci

The American Basketball Association will announce its newest team, the Phoenix Fury along with its owner, and organizational leadership in a press conference on July 10, 2008 at 10:30 a.m. at Greenway High School gymnasium located at 3930 W. Greenway Road, Phoenix, AZ 85053. 'There's a lot of talent and sporting enthusiasm in the Valley,' said Fury CEO Xavier Mitchell. 'We are really focused on tapping into that talent and generating community excitement around THE PHOENIX FURY.' The organizational leadership, including ABA great Joe Bryant , will be introduced during the press conference and address the team's key objectives in bringing the ABA's unique style to Phoenix. For more informations about this new team, contact Robyn Itule via email at robyn@armstrongtroyky.com or phone 602 476 2382x3. The new expansion ABA Kansas City Spartans hired Bryant Tucker as General Manager/Head Coach, went online with the new website, www.kansascityspartans.com, and scheduled the first tryout camp for July 19th from 3-7pm. For more information, email team owner Miton Thomas at milton_thomas08@yahoo.com. The Los Angeles Push annunced that Vincent Askew (6'6''-F-66, college: Memphis) has accepted an offer to be the team's General Manager of the team. 'Vincent will definitely use his NBA experience of eleven years to give the Los Angeles Push fans a highly competitive and successful team,' stated team own Donye Mitchell . 'He will also have an opportunity to implement some of his marketing plans with the Push in the front office. Mr. Dell Baxter, the team's interim GM, will serve as Assistant General Manager.' The ABA Fresno Legends are looking for a General Manager and a Head Coach to lead the expansion team that begins play in December. According to team owner, Dominick Young (5'10''-G-74, college: Fresno St.), 'John Lowe and I are assembling some top talent, but we do need a Head Coach that can make the final decisions for a very competitive team and then coach them to the top of the league. And, we need a GM who knows Community Relations, player personnel, sponsorships, ticket sales, media, press relations that can lead a strong staff off the court.' If that person is you, please call Dominick Young at 559 375 6947 or email dom@dominickunsensored.com.



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  ALGERIA   


MC Alger wins the Algerian Championship - by Kristian Santiago
Mouloudia Club Alger won its twelfth national title last friday.They posted an impressive record of 35 wins in 35 games and beat CRB Dar Beida 94-92 on the last day of the play-offs to stay undefeated this year.CRBDB finishes second while ASPTT Alger went third in front of last year's champs NB Staoueli.



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  ANGOLA   


Angola will be without Neto and Mbunga in Beijing - by Kristian Santiago
Manuel Neto (206-C-84, college: San Jacinto CC) and Divaldo MBunga (206-C-85, college: Peninsula JC) refused to join the ongoing national team preparations in Spain citing academic reasons.
Both players are currently attending summer classes in their respective colleges in the United States and won't be available for the national team this summer.
With the refusal of Miguel Lutonda (185-G-71) to travel with the team to Spain, the number of players unavailable for Coach Carvalho roses to three now and could certainly affect the success of the Angolans in China.
In the meanwhile, Joaquim Gomes (200-C/F-80, agency: Prime Select Sports, college: Valparaiso) and Primero Agosto are close to reach a contract extension for another two years according to a source close to the team.
Miguel Lutonda renewed his contract for another two years already while players Olimpio Cipriano (193-F-82) and Cape Verdean Rodrigo Mascarenhas (197-F-80) extended their contracts for another year with the military club.

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  ANTIGUA   


Division One playoffs in progress - by Eurobasket News
The Antigua and Barbuda Amateur Basketball Association enjoys the playoffs championship in Division One. The Geotech Golden Eagles were on brink of elimination but stayed alive in the series against the Freetown Travellers. The Golden Eagles bumped the Travellers 83:68 to draw things level in the best-of-three series. Mario Davis notched 27 points and 14 boards to lead the Golden Eagles. Kareem Bailey contributed 19 points and Tish Smith had 14 points and 11 boards in a win. The Travellers answered with 27 points from Teon Joseph (-G-77). Neville Martin (203-C-84) secured 18 points in a loss.
Scrubbo West Five also squared things up in the series against the defending champions Big Banana Express. The West Five pulled away with a 67:61 win over the Express behind 22 points from Junior Destin. However the topscorer was ejected late in the game and would automatically miss the decisive third game. Marvin Barthley had 16 points for the winners. Lindsay McDonald bruised the West Five with 23 points. Oslyn Gregory (-F-70) registered 17 points and 11 boards in a loss.
One of the main title favorites Defense Force Warriors wrapped their campaign against Samantha Bolans Ravens beating them 85:64. The win marked a 2-0 sweep of the Ravens. Mario Davis came up with 26 points for the winning side. Marlon Charles (186-G-76) dropped 22 points for the Warriors. Tindale Telemaque replied with 18 points for the Ravens.
The Baldwin Braves stayed in the race after a dramatic 81:80 win over Baba Trucking JSC Hawks. Damien Floyd knocked down 34 points to propel the Braves to the so much needed success. Michael Gore canned 14 points in a win. Jason London (176-G-81) drained 23 points for the Hawks.

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  ARGENTINA   


Argentina beats Venezuela - by Leonardo Contieri
In the opening round of the South American Championsip played in Puerto Montt, Chile, Argentina barely defeated Venezuela 79-77. Roman Gonzalez led all scorers with 23 points for Argentina, while Oscar Torres scored 20 for Venezuela and pulled down 11 boards. Venezuela outrebounded Argentina 42-28, but also had 22 turnovers to argentina's 12.
Argentina: Stanic 6, Quinteros 14, Locatelli, Pelussi 9, Gonzalez 23 (starters) Gutierrez 2, Garcia 15, Cequeira 5, Mainoldi 5, Mata. Coach: G. Narvarte
Venezuela: Marriaga 11, Cedeno 8, Torres 20, Sucre 14, vargas 4 (starters) Julio 4, Bethelmi 2, Centeno 1, Guevara 5, Osorio 4, Perez 4. Coach: N. Solorzano
Scores by quarters: 19-26 ; 41-43 and 63-57.

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  BELGIUM   


VOO Verviers-Pepinster Transfer News - by Peter Buyse

Verviers-Pepinster has added Croatian guard Vladimir Anzulovic (187-G-78, agency: Promotex) to its roster for the upcoming season.
He has extensive experience in strong European leagues having played for Iraklis Saloniki, Telekom Novo Mesto, Debreceni, Dubrava Zagreb, Anwil Wloclawek and KK Zagreb.
With all those teams he either played in the Adriatic League, Uleb Cup, Euroleague, Saporto Cup or Suproleague.
The past season he played in Croatia for Kvarner Resort Novi and averaged 14.6 ppg and 3.8 apg.

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  BERMUDAS   


St. George International triumph in Premier Basketball League - by Eurobasket News
St. George International - Paget Bear Cats 78:62

St. George International closed an impressive season at the Premier Basketball League in style. They toppled the Paget Bear Cats in the Final game to claim the crown. The victory marked the third straight title for the St. George International. The International did the obligatory home task of limiting the undoubtedly best player of the regular season Chris Crumpler (-83). The winners held the main Bear Cats offensive threat to only 21 points in the title decider. It was just enough to celebrate victory at the end. St. George International piled up a 38:31 lead at halftime and continued to mount the pressure in the second half. They opened up a double digit lead soon after the start of the second half and never allowed the Bear Cats to threaten it. Dean Jones (198-F-83) led all scorers 24 points for St. George. Damon Saunders (-84) was named the MVP of the Final. He delivered 13 points, 11 boards and 4 blocks in a winning case.

St. George: Dean Jones 24, Damon Saunders 13+11 boards
Paget Bear Cats: Chris Crumpler 21

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  BULGARIA   


Bulgarian U20 comes back from Romania - by Eurobasket News
Bulgarian U20 National Team continued to warm up before the European championship in Division B. The youngsters participated in in the international that saw four teams meet in Targu Mures.
On Day 1 Bulgaria lost to Macedonia 61:81. The hosts opened the tournament against Ireland. Romanian side dominated throughout the action and drove to an easy win at the end. They built a 20-point lead at the interval and kept the Irish counterparts at bay in the second half. Titus Nicoara (200-F-88, agency: Interperformances) dropped 19 points and pulled down 7 boards in a win. Mihai Petcu had 13 points and Vlad Moldoveanu notched 12 points and 10 boards for the winners.
On Day 2 the team of Ivan Chokalov beat Ireland 98:69. Romania faced Macedonia and left no chance for their opponents. Macedonia managed to keep it close in the first period as the teams were knotted at 24 at the first intermission. But the hosts limited Macedonia to just 6 points in the second stanza and cleared off to a 12-point distance. The visitors never recovered and suffered a 64:79 loss at the end. Titus Nicoara once again topscored for Romania with 26 points and 14 boards. Vlad Moldoveanu added 20 points and 16 caroms in a winning case.
On Day 3 Bulgaria lost to the winner of the tournament, Romania 71:75. Adrian Filovici led the charge with 20 points. Titus Nicoara had 16 points for the winners. He was trumped the MVP of the tournament after the game.
Bulgaria will continue to prepare for Eurobasket tournament and will participate in some more campaigns.

Mladenov in Balkan till 2010 - by Vladi Lazarova

Georgi Mladenov will stay in Balkan at least for the enxt 2 years. He will sign a contract for 2+1 seasons with The Greens and will continue to coach the team. Mladenov, who led the squad from Botevgrad to the 2nd place in the League and sensational silver medals, met the mayor of the city Georgi Georgiev today to discuss the future of Balkan. Its already clear that the team will be stronger and will try to become better for the next season. The officials promise bigger budget and the coaching staff is already working for some fresh summer transfers. Its 100% that the fans will see some of their favourite players next season too: 37-years old American veteran Dwayne Morton signed a new deal, the same will do Atanas Radev. The head coach wants to keep his Bosnian playmaker Pavle Bolkovac as well. Balkan is looking for a center, forward and one more guard. The roster will be clear till the end of the month.




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  CANADA   


Canada cruises past Lebanon at the Jack Donohue International Classic - by Eurobasket News
Canada - Lebanon 89:67

Canadian National Team grabbed the initial win at the Jack Donohue International tournament in Canada. The hosts faced Lebanese team in the competition opener at the McMaster University. Canada led for the major part of the game and deservedly prevailed at the end. Rowan Barrett (197-G/F-72, college: St.John's) ignited a quick start for Canadian team as they claimed an 18:14 lead after the opening stanza. Canada kept on mounting the pressure in the second period and as Barrett completed his 13-point first half tally the home side found themselves up by 15 points at the interval. Canada opened the second half on a 12:5 run to leave the visitors far behind. The newly crowned West Asian champions had little to oppose the hosts and Canada stormed past Lebanon in the second half. Carl English (192-G-81, college: Hawaii) led the charge with 18 points. Olu Famutimi (197-G-84, agency: CGL Sports, college: Arkansas) scored 14 points, while Samuel Dalembert had 10 points and 11 boards for the winners. Fadi El Khatib (197-F-79, agency: Pro Management Agency) answered with 20 points for Lebanon. Rony Fahed (182-G-81, agency: Pro Management Agency) and Joe Vogel (211-C-73, agency: Pro Management Agency, college: Colorado St.) dropped 14 points apiece in a loss. Canada outrebounded their opponents 38:25 and shot impressive 54% from the field. Lebanon posted 35% accuracy from the field. Canada will take on New Zealand today.

Canada: Carl English 18, Rowan Barrett 16, Olu Famutimi 14
Lebanon: Fadi El Khatib 20, Rony Fahed 14, Joe Vogel 14

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  EGYPT   


The Serbian coach resines from the national team - by Sherif Soliman
Bradrag the serbian coach left the natoinal team in a very critical period.the national team was heading next week to Taiwan to participate in W.Jones cup tournement.The federation hired SAMI SHAROUNY(Shorta coach)for the coming period also SABRY ABD EL NABBY(Sporting Coach) will assist him.No offical news about the reason of the Serbian resining but roomers was following the federation members about commisions deducted from his salary.This setuation will make it very hard for the current federation before the elections expected to be held next month. Mohammed El Kerdani (195-F-77)

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  EL SALVADOR   


National team last news - by Jaime Arevalo
After two weeks of negotiations, Vladimir Aguilar, nicknamed 'el Apache agreed to serve as the El Salvador National Team coach for the 2008 and 2009 seasons. The main score for Aguilar is a good behaviour at the upcoming 'Centrobasquet '08', scheduled for August in Mexico, and the gold medal at the 'Juegos Centroamericanos '09', hosted by Honduras. His assistant in National Team will be Ernesto Rodriguez and the Trainer will be Carlos Villarreal, from Colombia. The players called by Aguilar at the first camp are:
Carlos Alas (181-G-79)
Bob Hunter (193-F-76)
Miguel Banos (186-F/C-84)
Oscar Rivera (186-G-80)
Jose Antonio Orellana (189-F-87)
Jorge Loucel (186-F-90)
Chester Davis (187-G/F-77)
Carlos Martinez (190-F-79)
Mario Flores (183-G-85)
Edwin Lopez (183-G/F-85)
Fabio Molina (195-G/F-81)
Yamil Bukele (195-F-78)
Eduardo Aguilar (176-G-86)
Salvador Bandek (181-G-78)
Julio Mancia (202-C-80)
Will be called for sure in future even two players who reside abroad, like Carlos Arias (200-F/C-89) and Schacun Malave (200-F/C-79, college: NYIT).

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  EUROBASKET SUMMER LEAGUE   


ESL Chicago awards announced - by Eurobasket

The Eurobasket Summer League (ESL) announced the following players to the ESL Chicago All Tournament Team.
The Co-MVPs are Leonard Houston (191-G-85, college: Drake) and Kyle Lamonte (191-G-84, agency: Beggs and Lane, college: William Carey) of the London team. Both of these players were spectacular over the three day tournament and were offered jobs by the Ukrainian and Lithuanian teams. Both of these guys have Euroleague or NBA potential.
Leonard Houston is an explosive combo guard from Drake University in 2007-08 (2nd Team All Missouri Valley Conference) that has excellent quickness and NBA shooting range. He had some amazing dunks that brought the fans in Chicago out of there seats.
Kyle Lamonte is a high level point guard with excellent size and athleticism who dominated play with his scoring ability, passing and defense. Kyle is a NAIA All American from William Carey that will be playing at the Euroleague level soon and has the whole package.
Both of these guys dominated players all week that had professional experience in Europe, NBDL, CBA and other professional leagues in the United States.

All-ESL Chicago 1st Team


Carter


Vierneisel


Edwards


Bibbs


Davenport

First Team ALL ESL Chicago:
Maurice Carter (191-G-74) (Warsaw) great shooter from deep hit an array of shots consistently and has a Bosman passport
Demarius Bolds (191-G-83) (Warsaw) Great athlete with amazing speed and rebounding ability from the guard spot, great scorer and defensive player.
Eric Vierneisel (201-F-85) (Madrid) Great shooter with nice size who can play a multi positions and will be a high level European pro.
Bryan Edwards (188-G-81) (Berlin) Athletic guard with great scoring ability with pro experience in Austria, France Pro B and IBL; played well all week.
Elzie Bibbs (193-G/F-82) (Paris) Big time athlete with pro body with a nice jump shot and got to basket all week, leading scorer of the ESL Chicago; great prospect.
Alex Davenport (194-G-85) (Rome) Big guard with NBA skills was unstoppable all week and great athlete, needs more strength and will be a Euroleague/NBA player.maybe the most talented player at ESL Chicago
Emmanuel Little (196-F-85) (London) Big time athlete and NCAA II All American from University of North Dakota who dominated all week with his penetration, rebounding, athleticism, defense and scoring. Great ball handling skills but needs to take more perimeter shots. Has the potential to be a big time European professional.
Phillip Gilbert (191-G-82) (Athens) Nice scoring combo guard who had two great games in the ESL; he has experience in Pro A & Pro B France and the BBL in the UK.
Eugene Seals (199-F-82) (Amsterdam) Nice swing man with professional experience in Europe already; played consistently all week putting up nice numbers; a good pro.
Justin Johnson (203-F-83) (Madrid) He was a nice power forward with some swing man skills who did it all during the week and averaged 17ppg and 8rpg; great prospect for European teams
Jermaine Dailey (201-F-86) (London) He was the craziest athlete with the most amazing dunks all tournament; great defense, rebounder and has a great jump hook; he will make a European team really happy.
Dane Cruz (175-G-86) (London) A small point guard with all the ball handling ability with excellent quickness with a deadly jump shot; he will have a great career in Europe; NAIA All American in 2007-08

All-ESL Chicago 2nd Team


Williams


Bandy


Chester


Rembert


Thomas

Second Team ALL ESL Chicago:
Jimmy Williams (196-F-86) (Amsterdam) great athlete who did it all during the week; scored, rebound and shot well.
Marcus Arnold (203-F-84) (Warsaw) He was one of the best big men in the ESL Chicago and will make a team in Europe very happy; power and skills.
Daniel Bandy (178-G-84) (Madrid) Probably should be on the first team; he killed guards all week with his shooting and penetration. Great finisher for a small guard who can play in Europe; NAIA All American in 2007-08
Kevin Chester (203-C-84) (Amsterdam) One of the best big men in the ESL with a Hercules type of body with nice low-post moves and great jump hooks. He had one great game and a solid game on day two; will make a European team happy.
Michael Rembert (206-C-84) (Madrid) A quality big man he gave people 15ppg; 6rpg every game; he has nice pro size and good scoring ability and footwork; he will be in Europe in 2008.
Stanley Thomas (189-G-80) (Athens) A big time scorer who has nice size and is tricky because he is left handed. Any European team looking for a pure scorer and good athlete Stan is the man. One of the best players in the PBL this year.
Jontee Willhite (186-G-86) (Paris) Great combo guard from Eastern Illinois who can really score and play. He was consistent all week. He will be a good European player.
Keith Hampton (198-G/F-80) (Rome) Big time Athlete in a big time pro body; Keith can score rebound, shoot and go to the basket; he is a man among boys; had a great game on the final day but was consistent during week.
Jerrah Young (201-F-85) (Rome) Jerrah was probably one of the best forwards in the ESL but suffered an ankle injury but with his skill and size he will be a good European prospect for a lot of teams in Europe looking for a 67 forward who can play the 4 and the 3.
Diego Aguiar (201-F-83) (Berlin) A strong and aggressive player from Brazil who has great low post skills and is an excellent rebounder; played well against London but had an incredible 26pts and 10rbs in the 3rd place game. Good prospect with size and skills.
Brandon Watkins (183-G-81) (Warsaw) An ultra quick point guard who can really shoot the basketball with pro experience in the IBL and Europe. He lit London up in the Championship game and played great defense against London and Madrid. A true player.
Mark Stovall (197-F-84) (Paris) Mark played well all week and quietly put up some nice numbers; Mark has pro experience in Columbia and is a nice swing man.
Junior Austin (192-G-81) (Amsterdam) A big powerful guard or small forward that over powered opponents all week but had a nice touch with his jump shot and was a force on the boards.
Marcus King-Stockton (206-F-85) (London) Marcus had a great game in the Championship game with 15ppg; 15rbs and 5blks; he has a great body, long arms and needs a situation in Europe where he can develop. Has the potential to be a serious pro with more confidence.

ESL Chicago All-Big Men Team


Johnson


King-Stockton


Chester


Rembert


Love

ESL Chicago All Big Men Team:
Justin Johnson (203-F-83) (Madrid) 69 & 240lbs
Marcus King-Stockton (206-F-85) (London) 69 & 240lbs
Kevin Chester (203-C-84) (Amsterdam) 69 & 235lbs
Marcus Arnold (203-F-84) (Warsaw) 69 & 260lbs
Michael Rembert (206-C-84) (Madrid) 69 & 250lbs
Reo Logan (211-C-81) (Warsaw) 611 & 250lbs had a 13pts; 11rbs game and has some nice skills; his team did not give him the ball a lot but he can play in Europe.
Casey Love (203-F/C-80) (Warsaw) 68 & 250lbs was the most polished big man with low post skills and moves; maybe the best offensive big man in the ESL did not get enough touches.
Jessan Gray (208-F-84) (Madrid) 611 & 225lbs Jessan is more a 4/3 finesse big man who likes to face up and shoot the jump shot; played well coming during week considering he was coming off a minor knee injury.


Coach of the Tournament:
Tony Lenard
Tony used his pro experience and made his talented team play excellent defense and team basketball. The players who dominated he let them get into a nice flow. Off course the guys who struggled he decreased their time and dealt with the attitudes accordingly. As a result London won the championship easily. Tony has CBA, ABA and WBA experience.


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  EUROPEAN CHAMPIONSHIPS U16   


European Championship Division C. Day 4 - by Eurobasket News
Semifinals

Wales U16 - Moldova U16 68:55
Welsh U16 National Team earned the spot in the European Championship in Division C Final. Yesterday they outlasted Moldova to advance to the championship game. There Wales will face their neighbours Scotland on Tuesday. Moldova will play against Gibraltar in the consolation final. Wales opened the game confidently as Daniel Pulman scored quick 5 points to put them in front. He teamed up with Kilmartin to knock back-back to trebles and Wales led 18:15 after ten minutes of action. Cojuhari scored 7 straight points for Moldova to open the second period as they surged ahead 22:20. However Daniel Pulman and Moore kept Wales close. Soon a couple of treys from Kilmartin and Moore allowed Wales to spur in front 37:30. Pulman crowned the first half with two free throws to make it 39:32 for Wales at the interval. Daniel Pulman canned 8 points early in the third stanza and Moldova trailed by 15. Wales maintained the margin throughout the third stanza and enjoyed a 12-point cushion heading into the fourth term. However two trebles from Melniciuc and one more from Mescoi cut the deficit to just 5 points midway through the fourth quarter. But it was once again Daniel Pulman to ensure the winning outcome for the Welsh side. He came up with 5 points in the late stages and brought Wales to the victory. Daniel Pulman finished with impressive 36 points, 8 boards and 6 assists. Moore and Kilmartin had 10 points apiece for the winners. Carali answered with 19 points and 9 boards for Moldova. Melniciuc had 11 points and 11 boards in defeat.

Wales U16: Daniel Pulman 36, Alexander Moore 10, Alex Kilmartin 10
Moldova U16: Vladimir Carali 19, Denis Melniciuc 11+11 boards


Scotland U16 - Gibraltar U16 103:52
Scottish U16 National Team is looking to improve on the 2006 European Championship in Division C result. Scotland finished in the second place that year but they received the chance to claim the crown this year. Scotland advanced to the title game yesterday holding off Gibraltar in the semifinal. Alisdair Fraser exploded with 31 points and 11 boards and the Tartan left no chance for the hosts. Reilly and Fraser teamed up for 22 points in the first period and Scotland grabbed a 31:16 lead. Trebles from Grieve and Haldane stretched the gap to as many as 21 points. Six straight points from Alasdair Fraser carried Scottish side to a 49:21 advantage midway through the second period. Moreno scored 5 points for Gibraltar late in the first half but the hosts trailed by 32 at the sides change. Scotland wisely kept the home side at bay throughout the third frame and enjoyed a 41-point cushion before the final stanza. The visitors never looked back in the final frame and eased to an overall victory at the end. Reilly came up with 17 points, while Haldane scored 11 in a winning effort. Kevan Sercombe replied with 13 points for Gibraltar. Sercombe and Moreno had 10 points apiece in a loss. Scotland will take on Wales in todays championship game. Gibraltar will be opposed by Moldovan team in the consolation final.

Scotland U16: Alisdair Fraser 31+11 boards, Lee Reilly 17, Kyle Haldane 11
Gibraltar U16: Kevan Sercombe 13, Jamie Sercombe 10, Dale Moreno 10


5th-8th spots playoffs

Malta U16 - San Marino U16 49:40
Maltese U16 National Team grabbed a narrow win over San Marino to fight for the 5th spot at the European Championship in Division C. Malta will take on Monaco in tomorrows game. Bugeja started the game confidently as his 6 points put Malta in charge 12:5. Maltese youngsters drove to a 15:9 lead at the first intermission. Bugeja and Cilia teamed up for 8 points early in the second stanza and Malta stretched their lead to 15 points. San Marino relied on a nice shooting from Stefanelli to trail by 11 at the main sides change. The teams traded baskets throughout the third period and Carlini and Moretti capped the frame with 4 points to cut the deficit to 9 points before the fourth quarter. Bugeja and Merlini exchanged the buckets to open the final stanza and then the teams took almost a 5-minute scoring pause. Finally Moretti broke the draught with a layup, while Stefanelli penetrated for two more points as San Marino were down by just 5 points with less than 3 minutes left. But Bugeja scored 5 points in the dying moments bringing Maltese team to the victory. David Bugeja led the action with 19 points, 14 boards and 7 steals. He also committed massive 15 turnovers down the stretch. Mark Cilia knocked down 10 points and collected 11 boards for the winners. Marco Stefanelli answered with 12 points and 7 rebounds for San Marino. San Marino takes on Andorra in the game for the 7th spot tomorrow.

Malta U16: David Bugeja 19+14 boards, Mark Cilia 10+11 boards, Edward Bonello 9+15 boards
San Marino U16: Marco Stefanelli 12, Gioele Moretti 9


Andorra U16 - Monaco U16 45:52
Andorra U16: Marc Dabad 12, Xavier Calvis 10
Monaco U16: Sebastien Souciant 12, Maxime Varitto 11+9 steals

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  FYR MACEDONIA   


Macedonia U20 finishes second in Targu Mures - by Eurobasket News
Macedonia U20 finished second in Romanian Targu Mures. Macedonian youngsters took part in the international that saw four teams there. In the first day Macedonia U20 beat Bulgaria 81:61, while the hosts opened the tournament against Ireland. Romanian side dominated throughout the action and drove to an easy win at the end. They built a 20-point lead at the interval and kept the Irish counterparts at bay in the second half. Titus Nicoara dropped 19 points and pulled down 7 boards in a win. Mihai Petcu had 13 points and Vlad Moldoveanu (208-F-88) notched 12 points and 10 boards for the winners. Next Macedonia faced Romania and could not compete with the strong hosts. Macedonia managed to keep it close in the first period as the teams were knotted at 24 at the first intermission. But the hosts limited Macedonia to just 6 points in the second stanza and cleared off to a 12-point distance. The visitors never recovered and suffered a 64:79 loss at the end. Titus Nicoara once again topscored for Romania with 26 points and 14 boards. Vlad Moldoveanu added 20 points and 16 caroms in a winning case.
On Day 3 the team of Emil Rajkovic beat Ireland 91:52 and clinched second position.

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  GERMANY   


Ulm signs Michael Schroeder - by Manuel Schust
Ratiopharm Ulm signed german Center Michael Schroeder (210-C-84, agency: Rasmussen Services) for the upcoming season.
Schroeder, a 2,10 meters and 132 kg big man, spent last year with Goettingen and averaged 5.3 points and 4.2 rebounds per game.
His best performance was against Paderborn, when he produced 21 points and 10 rebounds (shooting 10/13) in just 26 minutes.
He also played in 2006/07 for Goettingen and helped the team to promote to BBL, averaging a double-double 11.9 points and 10.5 rebounds.
Except one year when he played for Bamberg and Breitenguessbach, Schroeder spent his entire career in Goettingen. Now he seems ready for a new challenge in Ulm.
The 23-year-old established himself as a decent backup Center and will support Sean Finn (212-C-82, college: Dayton) and Mr. Incredible Jeff Gibbs (188-F-80, college: Otterbein) from the bench.

Another successful Courtside Camp concluded! - by Kristian Santiago
The City of Frankfurt played the host of the Courtside Camp the sixth time in a row and once again, some players used the three games to display some outstanding performances and secure a contract for the upcoming season.
Even though this year's camp had not the strongest crop of players as it was the case in the previous years, the camp again attracted a lot of coaches from the old continent.

The following players left their mark last weekend and stood out on all three days:

Guards:
Paul Paradoski (183-G-84, agency: Court Side, college: SE Missouri St.)
Ernestas Ezerskis (195-G-87, agency: Court Side)
Zan Vrecko (194-G-86, agency: Interperformances)

Forwards:
Tanguy Ngombo (196-F-89, agency: Court Side)
Marcus Smallwood (198-F-82, college: N.Illinois)
Pavel Englicky (210-F/C-83, agency: PPGroup)
Chris Oliver (198-F-85, agency: Court Side, college: Radford)

Centers:
Thomas Soltau (210-C/F-82, agency: Court Side, college: Northwestern)
Daniel Dousa (219-C-81, agency: PPGroup)

ALBA Berlin signs Steffen Hamann from Bamberg - by Moritz Korff
Steffen Hamann (194-G-81) has chosen to leave his home to join the defending Bundesliga-champion ALBA Berlin. He signed a three-year-deal. Hamann has been a member of the German National Team since 2003 and has won 64 caps for Germany so far. He captured two national championships with Bamberg in 2005 and 2007 and is a five-time Bundesliga-All Star. In 2004 Hamann was named the Eurobasket.com All-German Bundesliga Defensive Player of the Year and made the Eurobasket.com German Bundesliga All-Domestic Players Team in 04, 05, 06 and 07, being named the Domestic Player of the Year in 2007. The 27-year-old Guard left Bamberg during the summer of 2006 and moved to Climamio Bologna of the Italian Serie A, but returned home later in the season. During 2007-08 Hamann averaged 9.8 points, 2.3 rebounds and 3.4 assists in 38 games of the Bundesliga for Bamberg and also had 14 appearances in the Euroleague, producing 8.7 points, 1.9 rebounds and 2.6 assists per contest.

Tomas Grepl leaves MBC - by Moritz Korff
The former Czech-international Tomas Grepl (192-G-77) will not extend his contract with Mitteldeutscher BC (2. Bundesliga Pro A) and move to his home-country instead. The 2007-08 Eurobasket.com All-German 2. Bundesliga Pro A Bosman Player of the Year first joined MBC in 2004 and became a key-player and fans' favorite in the city of Weissenfels. Grepl had a scoring-average in double-figures in every season he spent on the Wolves' roster. During 2007-08 he tallied 13.3 points, 2.2 rebounds and 1.4 assists a game. Besides playing in the 2. Bundesliga Pro A in his final season Grepl also served as the Head Coach of MBCs farm-team in the Regionalliga North.

Artland Dragons: Rohdewald will go into his 7th year, while Feist quits - by Moritz Korff
The Artland Dragons Quakenbrueck (1. Bundesliga) announced two more decisions regarding their 2008-09 roster today. Jan Rohdewald (194-G/F-73, agency: Court Side), the 35-year-old veteran-shooter, inked a contract for another year with the team, his seventh in Quakenbrueck. Rohdewald scored 7.5 points on average through 34 Bundesliga-games (season-high 17 points) coming from the bench in this past season. Meanwhile, Hendrik Feist (193-G/F-83, college: Stony Brook) has not received an offer for a contract-extension. The former player of Stony Brook University and member of the German A2-National Team saw action in only 8 Bundesliga-games (6 pts) and 4 encounters of the ULEB-Cup during the 2007-08 campaign.

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


Little chat with coach of the Cameroon National Team - by George Manousidis
Coach Lazare Adingono is National coach of the Cameroon National Team.
One of the twelve teams participates in FIBA Olympic Qualifying Tournament for Men in Athens from 14 to 20 of July. Eurobasket.com had a little chat with him

Eurobasket.com: What is your expectation of the Cameroon National Team?
Coach Lazare Adingono : My expectations for the National Team are simple play together and compete.

Eurobasket.com: Do you believe that Hellenic Basketball Federation has the experience to organize top basketball events such FIBA Olympic Qualifying Tournament for Men?
Coach Lazare Adingono : Yes, I believe the Hellenic Federation is not only qualified but committed to make this event a total success.

Eurobasket.com: What is your opinion about the development and the progress of FIBA Africa?
Coach Lazare Adingono : I think FIBA has done a great job in put different events in place in order to give most countries of the African continent to compete and have the exposure needed earn some experience.

Eurobasket.com: Do you think Africa's basketball can come closer to the European standards?
Coach Lazare Adingono : I Believe African basketball is well on his way of compete against the very worldwide.


Eurobasket.com: Do you consider that European or American basketball culture is closer to the Africa's basketball culture?
Coach Lazare Adingono : There are some similarities, I believe African basketball has a unique culture and I hope it hold on to that unique god given potential.

Transfer news - by Chris Mammides
Dusan Kecman (197-G/F-77) agreed financial terms with Panathinaikos. The Serb power forward will join forces with his team-mate in Serbia, Nikola Pekovic (210-C-86).
Antonis Asimakopoulos (204-F-76) renewed his contract with Kolossos Rodou for another one year. At the same time Panagiotis Panagiotarakos (194-G-74) and Kolossos split ways. At the same time the ex player of AEK Angelos Tsamis (192-G-81) agreed financial terms with Kolossos for one year.
Aris Thessalonikis agreed terms with Blagota Sekulic (209-F/C-82), the ex power forward-center of Real Madrid is well known to the Greek fans as he spent two season in the Greek league.
Manolis Papamakarios (190-G-80) and Olympiakos split ways; Olympiakos announced officially the agreement between Michalis Pelekanos (198-F-81) and the red team.
Billy Keys (188-G-77, college: N.Mexico St.) agreed financial terms with MAroussi for the next two seasons.
Levon Kendall (209-F-84, college: Pittsburgh) renew his contract with Panionios for another one year

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


Metro League: playoff at the start - by Gianni Pascucci
The Apertura Season 2008 of the Liga Metropolitana de Baloncesto started the playoff yesterday night, with the meetings between top seeded Sat Markvision and RL and Elite Sport and Le Mans. The full schedule released by the league is as follows:
Tuesday, July 1
19:00 # 1 SAT Markvision - # 8 RL
20:30 # 3 Elite Sport Pollo Rey - # 6 Le Mans
Thursday, July 3
19:00 # 2 Leones de Marte - # 7 Compusys
20:30 # 4 Corpoevisa - # 5 Estudiantes
Sunday, July 6
15:00 winner 1-8 - winner 4-5
17:00 winner 2-7 - winner 3-6
Tuesday, July 8
20:00 Final - Game 1
Thursday, July 10
20:00 Final - Game 2
Sunday, July 13
17:00 Final - Game 3 (if necessary)

*****************************************************
  HAITI   


LSB Standings
Division 1 Standings
1. ASBA 1-0
2. Giants 1-0
3. Ninja 1-0
4. Exposant 1-0
5. Topaze 0-1
6. Dynamic 0-1
7. Bazzoka 0-1
8. Bota's House 0-1


The National Championship finally started - by Stardeak Durand
The Haitian National Championship started on saturday june 28. The two times LSB champions Giants and Bazooka tipped off the action at the Carrefour Sports Center. The two teams started slowly with Bazooka scoring the first 2 pts at 8:10 remaining in the first quarter, and the first Giants basket coming from a jump shot set by Alabre Wickerson with 7:58 to go in the period. Bazooka led the game until the middle of the third quarter when Brisly Paul smash the ball into the basket and Giants held off Bazooka to win his first game in the first Haitian National Basket-ball Championship 71-57.

COMPLETE RESULTS

Giants-Bazooka : 71-57
Ninja-Dynamic : 71-63
Exposant-Topaze : 102-92
ASBA-Botha's House : 97-70

National Championship schedule - Week 2 and 3 - by Stardeak Durand

This is the Haitian National Basket-ball schedule for the second and third week.

Week 2

June 4, 2008

Exposant at Giants ( Port-au-Prince ).

June 5, 2008

ASBA at Dynamic ( Cayes ).
Bazooka at Bota's House ( Cap-Haitien ).
Ninja at Topaze ( Port-au-Prince ).

Week 3

June 11, 2008

Giants at Topaze ( Port-au-Prince ).

June 12, 2008

ASBA at Ninja ( Cap-Haitien ).
Bota's House at Exposant ( Gonaves )
Dynamic at Bazooka ( Port-au-Prince ).



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


Van Schaveren interim director NBB. - by Fred Roggen
The governing board of the Dutch Basketball Association (NBB) announced that by 1 July 2008 Andre van Schaveren is appointed as an interim director.
During the coming 4 months, Van Schaveren works 2 days per week for the NBB.
In this temporary function, Van Schaveren has as main task to give control to the association office and to prepare the way for the appointment of a new association director.
Van Schaveren (61 years) was up to April 2007 director of NISB.

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


Market movements - by Tamas Deri
FALCO KC published yesterday, that head coach Srecko Sekulovic signed for the next season! They signed a 2+1 years deal with hungarian NT power forward Zoltan Horvath (207-F/C-79, agency: Laszlo Vinko Services), who started the last season in Greece, but left and signed with ASE for the remainder of the season. So, after losing Kornel Varadi the management of the club could get one experienced hungarian player and is negotiation with Kazlauskas, Aliakseyeu and Ciric about re-signing!

Andras Molnar (195-F/G-83) decided to leave Szolnok and signed with Univer KSE. The guard of our NT averaged 8 points and 3 rebounds per game as a backup guard of OLAJ KK.

*****************************************************
  INDIA   


NBA Legend excited about an Indian talent - by Anil Kumar


*****************************************************
  IRELAND   


Irish youngsters ended up the campaign in Romania - by Eurobasket News
Ireland U20 National Team played three games in Targu Mures, International tournament. Unfortunately they lost all three games, but showed good effort and style of the game. The squad opened the tournament against Romanian side. The latter dominated throughout the action and drove to an easy win at the end. They built a 20-point lead at the interval and kept the Irish counterparts at bay in the second half. Titus Nicoara dropped 19 points and pulled down 7 boards in a win. Mihai Petcu (198-F-88) had 13 points and Vlad Moldoveanu (208-F-88) notched 12 points and 10 boards for the winners.
Next Ireland lost to Bulgaria 69:98. Both squads played well, but the latter dominated the court in the second half. In another game Romania faced Macedonia and left no chance for their opponents. The visitors never recovered and suffered a 64:79 loss at the end. Titus Nicoara once again topscored for Romania with 26 points and 14 boards. Vlad Moldoveanu added 20 points and 16 caroms in a winning case.
In the last game Ireland was defeated by Macedonia, that finished second in the tournament. Macedonia was too strong taking 91:52 victory.

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


Lega2 - Latest market news - by Gabriele Fioretti
While Rimini must say hallo to Omar Thomas (195-F-82, college: UTEP), inked by Pau Orthez, Veroli welcomes the new head coach Andrea Trinchieri witha a practice next wednesday. Target for Veroli market was Trent Whiting (185-G-76, college: BYU), but he was resigned by Sassari, so another rumour talks about former Varese center Gabriel Fernandez (204-C-76) and point guard Levin. Pavia, after announced coach Stefano Salieri as new coach, is looking for young players following the new head coach's philosophy: Marco Evangelisti (196-G-84) could be the first player inked by Pavia's President Bianchi. Soresina, after the sign of Rudy Mbemba (181-G-87), is now trying to ink Matthew Bucci (190-G/F-81, college: LIU - C.W.Post), from Osimo (B1, already coacehd by Cioppi). First player for Imola could be a return: BJ McKie (188-G-77, college: S.Carolina), while Reggio Emilia announced to not confirm Paul Marigney (192-G-82, college: St.Mary's, CA) for the next season and is looking for Andrea Ghiacci (200-G/F-81), player followed also by Venezia, Varese, Casale and Soresina.

Last transactions - by Gianni Pascucci
Pallacanestro Cantu announced the signing of Joel Zacchetti (209-C/F-82), who signed a two-year pact with the team. Upea Orlandina Basket Capo D'Orlando announced the signing of Greg Brunner (201-F-83, college: Iowa). In Lega 2, TDShop.it Livorno agreed to terms with young player Andrea Saccaggi (192-G-89).

*****************************************************
  JORDAN   


Wright is coming back - by Mohammed Malas
Some basketball sources related to both Jordanian Basketball Federation and Rasheim Wright (193-G-81, college: District of Col.) assured that the naturalized player will be back to the National Team soon.

Wright was suffering from a clot on lung during the last season, He appeared with Zain in the last Arab Clubs Championship but he needed for more rest before getting ready for the next events for both the NT and Zain Club.

Meanwhile, Jordan National Team is currently having a camp in China to prepare for William Jones Cup and Stankovic Cup.....

*****************************************************
  LEBANON   


Canada cruises past Lebanon at the Jack Donohue International Classic - by Eurobasket News
Canada - Lebanon 89:67

Canadian National Team grabbed the initial win at the Jack Donohue International tournament in Canada. The hosts faced Lebanese team in the competition opener at the McMaster University. Canada led for the major part of the game and deservedly prevailed at the end. Rowan Barrett (197-G/F-72, college: St.John's) ignited a quick start for Canadian team as they claimed an 18:14 lead after the opening stanza. Canada kept on mounting the pressure in the second period and as Barrett completed his 13-point first half tally the home side found themselves up by 15 points at the interval. Canada opened the second half on a 12:5 run to leave the visitors far behind. The newly crowned West Asian champions had little to oppose the hosts and Canada stormed past Lebanon in the second half. Carl English (192-G-81, college: Hawaii) led the charge with 18 points. Olu Famutimi (197-G-84, agency: CGL Sports, college: Arkansas) scored 14 points, while Samuel Dalembert had 10 points and 11 boards for the winners. Fadi El Khatib (197-F-79, agency: Pro Management Agency) answered with 20 points for Lebanon. Rony Fahed (182-G-81, agency: Pro Management Agency) and Joe Vogel (211-C-73, agency: Pro Management Agency, college: Colorado St.) dropped 14 points apiece in a loss. Canada outrebounded their opponents 38:25 and shot impressive 54% from the field. Lebanon posted 35% accuracy from the field. Canada will take on New Zealand today.

Canada: Carl English 18, Rowan Barrett 16, Olu Famutimi 14
Lebanon: Fadi El Khatib 20, Rony Fahed 14, Joe Vogel 14

*****************************************************
  LIBYA   


Standings
D1 Standings
 1. Ittihad 19-3 
 2. Ahli 19-3 
 3. Shabab 18-4 
 4. Nasr 16-6 
 5. Alibenghazi 15-7 
 6. Madina 11-11 
 7. Hilal 9-13 
 8. Morog 8-14 
 9. Jazeera 8-14 
 10. Yarmook 4-18 
 11. Tahaddi 3-19 
 12. Wahda 2-20 


Championship Game Today - by Anas Seddigh
The last week of the league competition was on friday ,with two teams sharing the top spot Al Ahli Tripoli and Al Ittihad played their last games with hopes of a surprise loss to the other team, Al Ahli Tripoli had an easy game against Al Yarmook one of the bottom teams in the league and they had no problems in the game crushing Al Yarmook (70-29).
on the other side Al Ittihad struggled in their game against Al Madina and nearly lost the game when Al Madina player Abdul Mon'em Farhat missed a free throw shot in the last second of the forth quarter that if made the title would go to Al Ahli Tripoli.
the forth quarter of Al Ittihad - Al Madina game ended (63-63) ,it took Al Ittihad two OT's to win the game and keep their chances of the championship alive.

the results from week 22 :
Al Hilal - Al Shabab 61-75
Al Madina - Al Ittihad 83-94
Naser - Tahade 79-58
Al Jazeera - Ahli Benghazi 60-79
Al Wahda - Al Morog 54-59
Al Ahli Tripoli - Al Yarmook 70-29

The rules of the libyan basketball federation says if two teams ends the league with the same points in first place , a game between those two teams will be played to determine the league champion.

because Al Ahli Tripoli and Al Ittihad finish the league with 41 points each, the championship game will be played today ( 1/ July /2008 ) on 18:00 o'clock local time ,the game will be in Nelson Mandela Sports Gym. in ZWARA.
the federation decided to play the game in Zwara instead of Tripoli due to safety issues.

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


Lithuanian U18 Team completes Douai Tournament campaign - by Eurobasket News
Lithuanian U18 National Team finished their Douai Tournament campaign. After two starting victories Lithuanian youngsters were tamed by the USA team. Lithuanian led 19:16 after the opening frame but could not hold on to the lead. Their USA counterparts jumped to a 37:33 lead at halftime and stretched the gap to 12 points after three frames. Lithuanian team failed to recover in the fourth stanza and suffered a 70:84 victory at the end. Gilvydas Biruta (200-F-91) provided 15 points for Lithuania. Tautvydas Slezas (207-C-90) had 13 points and 14 boards in a loss.
Lithuanian side then faced Turkish team and once again failed to deliver losing 89:94. The history repeated itself as Lithuanian team jumped to a 27:23 lead after the starting frame but could not capitalize. Turkey drew things level in the second period and built a 2-point lead at halftime. Lithuania did not say die and retained the lead after three quarters of action. But it was not enough as Turkey notched 29 points in the final stanza and celebrated a narrow win at the end. Donatas Motiejunas (214-C-90) nailed 20 points and pulled down 8 boards for Lithuania. Gilvydas Biruta and Gediminas Orelik chipped in 14 points apiece in defeat.
Lithuanian U18 team wrapped up their campaign with a confident 90:73 victory over Selection Africa side. This time Lithuanian squad held on to an 8-point first half lead. Thee widened to as many as 19 points at halftime and never looked back afterwards. Donatas Motiejunas led all scorers with 30 points and 7 boards at the end. Augustas Peciukevicius (190-G-91) and Vytautas-Edvardas Pikalavicius (196-F-90) scored 13 points each in a winning effort.

*****************************************************
  MAURITIUS   


Standings - Men
D1 Standings
 1. Real BC 18-0 
 2. Barkley 14-4 
 3. EDB Cassis 13-5 
 4. Flippers 11-7 
 5. Warriors 11-7 
 6. CSSC 7-11 
 7. Vuillemin 6-11 
 8. Attila 5-12 
 9. ASVP 5-13 
 10. USBBRH 0-12 


*****************************************************
  MOLDOVA   


Daniel Pulman leads Wales into European Championship Final - by Eurobasket News
Wales U16 - Moldova U16 68:55

Welsh U16 National Team earned the spot in the European Championship in Division C Final. Yesterday they outlasted Moldova to advance to the championship game. There Wales will face their neighbours Scotland on Tuesday. Moldova will play against Gibraltar in the consolation final. Wales opened the game confidently as Daniel Pulman scored quick 5 points to put them in front. He teamed up with Kilmartin to knock back-back to trebles and Wales led 18:15 after ten minutes of action. Cojuhari scored 7 straight points for Moldova to open the second period as they surged ahead 22:20. However Daniel Pulman and Moore kept Wales close. Soon a couple of treys from Kilmartin and Moore allowed Wales to spur in front 37:30. Pulman crowned the first half with two free throws to make it 39:32 for Wales at the interval. Daniel Pulman canned 8 points early in the third stanza and Moldova trailed by 15. Wales maintained the margin throughout the third stanza and enjoyed a 12-point cushion heading into the fourth term. However two trebles from Melniciuc and one more from Mescoi cut the deficit to just 5 points midway through the fourth quarter. But it was once again Daniel Pulman to ensure the winning outcome for the Welsh side. He came up with 5 points in the late stages and brought Wales to the victory. Daniel Pulman finished with impressive 36 points, 8 boards and 6 assists. Moore and Kilmartin had 10 points apiece for the winners. Carali answered with 19 points and 9 boards for Moldova. Melniciuc had 11 points and 11 boards in defeat.

Wales U16: Daniel Pulman 36, Alexander Moore 10, Alex Kilmartin 10
Moldova U16: Vladimir Carali 19, Denis Melniciuc 11+11 boards

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


Baron Davis opts out of contract with the Warriors - by Eurobasket News
Baron Davis (6'2''-G-79, agency: Life Sports, college: UCLA) decided to opt out of the last year on his contract with the Golden State Warriors. The 29-year-old point guard turned down $17.8 million contract for the next year and became a free agent. It was quite a surprising move from the Warriors star. The sides were in negotiations about possible long-term contract but Baron Davis decided to quit. He however has all the possibilities to sign with the Warriors again but some things show he might not. One of them is the desire of Don Nelson to give more chances to young players. It led to some tension between him and Baron Davis in the last season. Meanwhile the Los Angeles Clippers were already reported to show interest in signing Baron Davis. The veteran point guard came up with 21.8 points, 7.6 assists and 4.7 boards per game in the last season. He also missed no games in the 2007-2008 season.
In the meantime some sources reported that Elton Brand (6'8''-F-79, college: Duke) decided to opt out of his contract with the Los Angeles Clippers. The forward had $16.4 million to be paid on the final year of the deal. Brand missed the major part of the last season because of a knee injury. His career stats come up to 20.3 points and 10.2 boards per game. Elton Brand however has already expressed the wish to re-sign with the Clippers. His teammate Corey Maggette (6'6''-G-79, college: Duke) is also expected to opt out of his contract. He averaged 22.1 points and 5.6 boards per game last season and is highly demanded on the market.

*****************************************************
  OLYMPIC GAMES   


Angola will be without Neto and Mbunga in Beijing - by Kristian Santiago
Manuel Neto (206-C-84, college: San Jacinto CC) and Divaldo MBunga (206-C-85, college: Peninsula JC) refused to join the ongoing national team preparations in Spain citing academic reasons.
Both players are currently attending summer classes in their respective colleges in the United States and won't be available for the national team this summer.
With the refusal of Miguel Lutonda (185-G-71) to travel with the team to Spain, the number of players unavailable for Coach Carvalho roses to three now and could certainly affect the success of the Angolans in China.
In the meanwhile, Joaquim Gomes (200-C/F-80, agency: Prime Select Sports, college: Valparaiso) and Primero Agosto are close to reach a contract extension for another two years according to a source close to the team.
Miguel Lutonda renewed his contract for another two years already while players Olimpio Cipriano (193-F-82) and Cape Verdean Rodrigo Mascarenhas (197-F-80) extended their contracts for another year with the military club.

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


Eala wants PBA to clarify role in SBP - by Benny Lirio

Noli Eala, newly-appointed executive director of the BAP-Samahang Basketbol ng Pilipinas (SBP), is seeking a meeting with the Philippine
Basketball Association (PBA) to obtain a definitive answer to its commitment to the national team his strained relations with his former league,
where he served as commissioner for four years, aside.

Eala claimed to have sent a letter to Reunald Sonny Barrios, the man he beat for the top PBA post in 2003 only to succeed him in 2007
when Eala was given a way out through resignation following his disbarment from the Philippine Bar.

Eala has since rebounded, forming his own fledgling league, Liga Pilipinas, and was subsequently appointed executive director of BAP-SBP,
succeeding Patrick Gregorio.

It is now that Eala first opens communication with his former league, seeking to clarify the extent of involvement the professional league would want in the
BAP-SBP, barely a year after the PBA.

In his letter, Eala claimed asking Barrios to clarify league position on the countrys participation in elite tournaments like the Asian Games,
World Championships and the Olympics.

The PBA has recently withdrawn from representing the Philippines in the Jones Cup in Chinese-Taipei, forcing the countrys eventual withdrawal
from the tournament last month.

I just sent them a letter to ask for clarification on their position, Eala said. If they will grant a meeting, I will be more than glad to sit with
commissioner Barrios and discuss how they can help assemble a competitive team to the elite tournaments. But there is no response yet.
Maybe they havent received my letter.

Based on the constitution and by-laws of the fledgling cage body, the professional league will take care of forming teams for elite tournaments
while regional competitions like the Southeast Asian Games and SEABA fall under amateur leagues like the Philippine Basketball League.

SBP is expected to scramble in forming a competitive national squad for the 2010 World Championships in Istanbul, Turkey,
which could be the countrys gateway to the 2012 London Olympics.

The PBA, however, is seriously mulling the possibility of reverting to a three-conference format, which would clash with Fiba-Asia schedule.

Thats why we need to know their position. I think its impossible for us to map out our plans and programs without even knowing if we
are on the same page with the PBA. They should inform us their plans so, at least, we could meet halfway.

DAILY TRIBUNE/J.Manicad




*****************************************************
  POLAND   


Henderson to Anwil (?), Davis to Politechnika, Basket inks seven players - by Michal Falkowski
It is rumoured that Anwil Wloclawek is very close to seal a deal with its former player Gerrod Henderson (193-G-78, agency: Octagon, college: Louisiana Tech). It is so surprising case due to some unexplained cicrumstances of parting ways between Henderson and Anwil last time. American player started last season playing in Anwil but after some months he moved to Azovmash Mariupol. Henderson was averaging 15.6 ppg., 4.2 rpg. and 3.1 apg. in Anwil. In the Ukrainian team his averages dropped a little bit 8.2 ppg., 3.4 rpg. and 1.8 apg.

According to 'Przeglad Sportowy' newspaper, Miah Davis (183-G-81, agency: Strategic Sports, college: Pacific) has just signatured with Polish newcomer of 2008/2009 season Politechnika Poznan. Last season Davis played in German League in Telekom Baskets Bonn where he was averaging 8.3 ppg., 2.5 apg. and 2.2 rpg. Before that, Davis had spent two seasons in Energa Czarni Slupsk. Moreover the club is interested in signing Alex McLean (203-F, agency: Strategic Sports). McLean is power forward / center. Last year he was a member of Liberty University in NCAA with averages 15.8 ppg. and 8.8 rpg.
Besides, Joe McNaull (208-C-72, agency: SportsTalent, college: Long Beach St.) wont play for Politechnika next season.

Bank BPS Basket Kwidzyn announced the agreement with seven players. Four of them played for Basket last season: Piotr Dabrowski (191-G/F-86), Hubert Mazur (190-G-84), Dariusz Puncewicz (194-G-80) and Bartosz Potulski (190-G-80). Moreover two players returned to the club after loan in Bonduelle Gniewkowo team Marcin Kowalewski (200-F-86) and Tomasz Wilczewski (181-G-85). Krzysztof Mielnik (195-G-88) is seventh face in the roster of upcoming season. Mielnik played in Polpak Swiecie last time, but before that he had played for Basket too.

Sportino Inowroclaw is still looking for a headcoach. The most important option is Jacek Winnicki who coached the team last seasin in Polish A2 Division and got the promotion to the highest class. If Winnicki rejects the offer, the club will have to find someone else. There are three candidates at the moment: Aleksander Krutikov (well-known from Polpak Swiecie three years ago), Frenchman Herve Coudray (last season in women basketball Valenciennes USVO) and Natalia Hejkova (also women basketball BC Moscow).

Energa Czarni Slupsk and Zbigniew Bialek (203-F-82) are closer more and more to come to terms of contract. Polish forward had just performed in black jerseys of Czarni for three seasons in years 2001-2004. Last time he represented Anwil Wloclawek noting 6.5 ppg., 2.7 rpg.

Changes in Prokom Trefl Sopot - by Michal Falkowski
Prokom Trefl Sopot changes its image. The club stops overpaying players who have their best years behind. It is linked with the budget reduction from 30 mln zloty to only 10-15 mln zloty.
First of all it means that Prokom will have to say good bye to Milan Gurovic (207-F-76, agency: Beo Basket). Serbian star and the club had inked two-year-deal before previous season but in face of these circumstances the club has to break off the contract. Next players who will not stay in the team will be: Jovo Stanojevic (207-C-77, agency: Beo Basket), Pape Sow, Tim Kisner (188-G-78, college: Cent.Michigan), Chris Harissis (191-G-76), Igor Milicic (194-G-76) and Mustafa Shakur (190-G-84, college: Arizona) (who is determined to reach NBA). The board and the headcoach Tomas Pacesas (who hasn't signatured his deal yet) would like to have three Lithuanian players Donatas Slanina (192-G-77), Tomas Masiulis (204-F-75) and Simonas Serapinas (197-F-82) for the upcoming season's roster. However, negotiations with these players can turn out so difficult. Each of them is not going to accept his salary reduction.
Prokom is strongly determined to hire some Polish players. At the moment there are only some juniors in the roster: Mateusz Kostrzewski (198-G/F-89), Adam Lapeta (217-C-87), Adam Waczynski (199-F-89) and Przemyslaw Zamojski (198-G/F-86, college: Independence CC). The club came to terms of contract with Krzysztof Roszyk (200-F-78) and the official announcement is a matter of some days. Prokom also wants to extend Filip Dylewicz (202-F-80, agency: Beo Basket)'s contract, although Polish power forward got many offers including Polish teams like Anwil Wloclawek and BOT Turow Zgorzelec. Prokom is also interested in signing Radoslaw Hyzy (200-F-77) from Asco Slask Wroclaw, Robert Witka (205-F-81) from BOT Turow and Piotr Szczotka (197-F-81) from Energa Czarni Slupsk.

*****************************************************
  PORTUGAL   


Vagos in the market - by Luis Rocha
Vagos sign two players. Point guard Joao Reveles (187-G-80) and forward Joao Santos (193-G/F-83). Reveles is nowadays one of the best portuguese point guards and comes from GinAƒĀ”sio, Santos is a great hopeas a player although hes been fighting with injuries for the past years and comes rom Oliveirense after a season without play. Moving early in the market can certainly be an advantage for Vagos, and they are keen on preparing a good roster to keep their performances at a high level just like in last season.

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  ROMANIA   


Romania U20 triumphs at Omnilogic International Tournament - by Eurobasket News
Romanian U20 National Team continued to warm up before the European championship in Division B. The event is scheduled to start on August 1 and Romania will host it. The Romanian youngsters took part in the international that saw four teams meet in Targu Mures. The hosts opened the tournament against Ireland. Romanian side dominated throughout the action and drove to an easy win at the end. They built a 20-point lead at the interval and kept the Irish counterparts at bay in the second half. Titus Nicoara (200-F-88, agency: Interperformances) dropped 19 points and pulled down 7 boards in a win. Mihai Petcu (198-F-88) had 13 points and Vlad Moldoveanu (208-F-88) notched 12 points and 10 boards for the winners.
Next Romania faced Macedonia and left no chance for their opponents. Macedonia managed to keep it close in the first period as the teams were knotted at 24 at the first intermission. But the hosts limited Macedonia to just 6 points in the second stanza and cleared off to a 12-point distance. The visitors never recovered and suffered a 64:79 loss at the end. Titus Nicoara once again topscored for Romania with 26 points and 14 boards. Vlad Moldoveanu added 20 points and 16 caroms in a winning case.
Finally Romanian youngsters clinched the top spot in the third game of the tournament. They overcame Bulgaria 75:71 to post the third straight victory. Adrian Filovici led the charge with 20 points. Titus Nicoara had 16 points for the winners. He was trumped the MVP of the tournament after the game.

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  RUSSIA   


Dejuan Collins joins Lokomotiv Rostov - by Eurobasket News
Lokomotiv Rostov signed a contact with point guard DeJuan Collins (188-G-76, college: Tuskegee). The 32-year-old American veteran became the first newcomer for Rostov in the preseason. DeJuan Collins spent the last two years in Lithuanian playing for Zalgiris. He led the team to two championship titles in Lithuania. His average stats conclude 8.6 points and 5.0 assists per game in the LKL. He also averaged 10.8 points and 5.3 assists per game in the Euroleague. He was the best in Euroleague in assists per game. Collins is the LSU graduate. There he scored 10 points and dished out 4 assists per game in his senior season. He then had stints with ALBA Berlin, Aris, Varese and Brose Basket.
Meanwhile Dynamo Moscow is trying to sign Will Solomon (187-G-78, college: Clemson) for the upcoming season. The Moscow outfit is rumored to consider paying $2.5 million to the guard in the next season if he signs. Solomon spent the last season in Fenerbahce. He led the team to the TBL title. The 30-year-old guard also averaged 17.9 points, 3.9 assists and 3.1 boards per appearance in the Euroleague. Dynamo also showed interest in landing Maceo Baston (206-F-75, agency: Priority Sports, college: Michigan) and Tadija Dragicevic (205-F-86, agency: Beo Basket).
Unics is talking with Barcelona about the possible departure of Darjus Lavrinovic (212-C-79) to Spain. Darjus Lavrinovic averaged 15.3 points, 8.6 rebounds and 2.4 blocks per game in the ULEB Cup last season.

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  RWANDA   


Liberation Tourney Attracts Big Guns - by Kristian Santiago
by Julius Mbaraga

This year's liberation basketball tournament could go down to the wire after attracting the country's top guns.
The three-day event which throws off today has attracted reigning champions APR, the league's defending champions marine, last year's play-off finalists CSK A and 2004 league champions Espoir.
CSK A who will open the event's action at Amahoro indoor stadium with a clash against Kigali Institute of Education (KIE) are expected to have an easy go today.
In the other day's fixtures, UGB take on Espoir at Amahoro while Marine entertains Rwanda National University (UNR) in the NPC sports hall.
Cliff Owuor's indomitable lions will open their title defense tomorrow at Primature with a clash against UNR before logging heads with Marine at Amahoro later in the day.
The annual event has also attracted four ladies' clubs; APR, UNR, KIE and ISAE.
At the end of the three-day event, the top four clubs in both categories will qualify for the international version slated for next weekend.

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  SCOTLAND   


Scotland U16 reaches the Final in Gibraltar - by Eurobasket News
Scotland U16 - Gibraltar U16 103:52

Scottish U16 National Team is looking to improve on the 2006 European Championship in Division C result. Scotland finished in the second place that year but they received the chance to claim the crown this year. Scotland advanced to the title game yesterday holding off Gibraltar in the semifinal. Alisdair Fraser exploded with 31 points and 11 boards and the Tartan left no chance for the hosts. Reilly and Fraser teamed up for 22 points in the first period and Scotland grabbed a 31:16 lead. Trebles from Grieve and Haldane stretched the gap to as many as 21 points. Six straight points from Alasdair Fraser carried Scottish side to a 49:21 advantage midway through the second period. Moreno scored 5 points for Gibraltar late in the first half but the hosts trailed by 32 at the sides change. Scotland wisely kept the home side at bay throughout the third frame and enjoyed a 41-point cushion before the final stanza. The visitors never looked back in the final frame and eased to an overall victory at the end. Reilly came up with 17 points, while Haldane scored 11 in a winning effort. Kevan Sercombe replied with 13 points for Gibraltar. Sercombe and Moreno had 10 points apiece in a loss. Scotland will take on Wales in todays championship game. Gibraltar will be opposed by Moldovan team in the consolation final.

Scotland U16: Alisdair Fraser 31+11 boards, Lee Reilly 17, Kyle Haldane 11
Gibraltar U16: Kevan Sercombe 13, Jamie Sercombe 10, Dale Moreno 10

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  SERBIA   


Dusan Kecman in Panathinaikos - by Zoran Popovic
After the great season in BC Partizan Igokea Beograd, Dusan Kecman (197-G/F-77, agency: Beo Basket) signed contract with Panathinaikos Athens. Kecman was one of the most important players in BC Partizan Igokea Beograd success and winning Adriatic league, National Cup Radivoj Korac and Serbian Swisslion Superleague. In the last season Kecman scored in Euroleague 10.9Pts, 5.0Reb, 2.0Ast and 1.0St in Adriatic league 7.8Pts, 3.9Reb, 2.2Ast, 1.2St in Swisslion Superleague 7.6Pts, 4.9Reb, 2.2Ast, 0.8St and in play-off final serie 9.0Pts, 4.7Reb, 1.5Ast and 1.3St per game.

With BC Partizan Igokea Beograd Kecman won Adriatic league 2007 and 2008, National cup Radivoj Korac 2003, 2004, 2007 and 2008. Before BC Partizan Igokea Beograd Kecman played for Beopetrol 1996-2001, FMP Zeleznik Beograd 2001-2002, in season 2004-2005 Makedonikos Kozani, Efes Pilsen Istanbul and Telindus BC Oostende, 2004-2005 BC Kyiv. Dusan Kecman is member of Serbian National team.

Nadjfeji returnes in Panellinios - by Zoran Popovic
Stevan Nadjfeji (202-F-79) returned in Panellinios Athens after one season in Ago Rethimno Almeco. Last season Nadjfeji started in Vizura Beograd and in December 2007 he moved on Crete. In Vizura Beograd on 9 games Nadjfeji scored average 14.8Pts, 5.2Reb and 2.0Ast per game and in Ago Rethimno he scored 10.2Pts and 4.6Reb per game.
In his career Nadjfeji played for KK Beobanka Beograd 1996-2000, BKK Radnicki Beograd 2000-2001, BC Partizan Igokea Beograd 2001-2002, Ural Great Perm 2002-2004, Unics Kazan 2004-2005 and Panellinios Athens 2005-2007. Nadjfeji was member of Yugoslavia National team U18 and U21.

Serbian National team start with preparation for qualifications - by Zoran Popovic
Serbian National team today stars with training process and preaprations for the qualifications for European championship in Poland 2009. In the first phase head coach of Serbian team Dusan Ivkovic can count on 8 of 19 players from the list and they will start with individual practice in Eko hall in Belgrade. Longer vacantion and skiping first phase will have players from Partizan and Hemofarm, also Tadija Dragicevic (205-F-86, agency: Beo Basket) (knee injury) and Ivan Radenovic (208-F-84, college: Arizona). From July 6th team will be complete and from July 10th second phase Serbian National team will spend in Italy.
At the end of July National team will play tournament in Moscow (Russia, Ukraine and Latvia), Diamond ball tournament in China (Argentina, Iran, China, Australia, Angola) and finaly two games with Turkey in Belgrade, August 9th and 10th. Qualification for European championship starts in August 20th and in A group except Serbia are Bulgaria, Hungary and Finland.

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  SLOVENIA   


Modric joins coach Sagadin and Paravinja - by Zeljko Zule

Stipe Modric (207-F-79) ex Geoplin Slovan inked with Anwil Wloclawek for the upcoming season. He is the third former member of Slovenian National Team in Anwil and joined Milos Paravinja (212-C/F-79, agency: Interperformances) and coach Zmago Sagadin.

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  SPAIN   


Archibald to Unicaja while Zaragoza try to tempt Guerra - by Paul Nilsen
Unicaja have signed former NBA player Robert Jr. Robert Jr. Archibald (211-C/F-80, agency: Priority Sports, college: Illinois) (211-C/F-80, agency: Priority Sports, college: Illinois) for two seasons.

The Scottish forward played in the Ukraine last season at Azovmash where he enjoyed a successful campaign being crowned the league MVP.

His arrival at Malaga means he will be at his third ACB club after spells with Pamesa Valencia and DKV Joventut.

Before linking up with his new team-mates, Robert Jr. Archibald will be trying to gain qualification to Eurobasket via a series of Division A games with Great Britain.

He will play a major part in their qualification attempts along with the likes of Luol Deng, Ben Gordon and Pops Mensah-Bonsu.

CAI Zaragoza meanwhile are understood to have made a bid to bring Roberto Guerra (195-G-83) to Northern Spain from Gran Canaria.

The shooter has a lot to consider as he has psent his whole career with Granca as he is from the Canary Islands and it would be a huge wrench to leave his home after 9 seasons with the club, the first coming when he was just 16 years old.

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  TANZANIA   


Dar, Mombasa through to semis - by Kristian Santiago
By Faustine Feliciane

Dar es Salaam and Mombasa men`s teams yesterday qualified for the semi finals in the on going Africa Zone V Inter-Cities Basketball tourney.
Mombasa went through after hitting Kampala City Council (KCC) 63-46 in the match played at Dar es Salaam`s Indoor Stadium yesterday.
The Kenyan side were ahead 31-9 until the half time with Dan Foster who scored 18 points and Nelson Njau (187-G-79) (16) emerging the top scorers.
The highest scorers for KCC were Akita Helbert (12) and Ssentongo Brain (11).
Dar es Salaam went through after winning all their three games.
They defeated Mombasa 69-59 in their last match played on Thursday evening.
The hosts were yesterday evening expected to play Mbeya in a formality tie.
Other two teams which will join Dar es Salaam and Mombasa in the semis will be known today after the morning matches.
In another development, Mwanza hit Arusha 80-44 in the men`s match played yesterday.
The regional championship will end today.

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  TUNISIA   


JS Menazah promoted to Nationale A - by Kristian Santiago
JS Menazah does not have a long history in basketball. However, the club has made enormous progress in recent seasons, including a proper youth training.
On the senior level, they managed to gain promotion to the highest level of play this year with a team that has an average age of 22.
Lofti Chida , a former player of TAC and CA is their coach and who had already bigger plans in the beginning of the season: 'We intended to be one of the top teams at the start of the season and the results followed.We beat US Ansar and outperformed AS Kasserine to win the title in Nationale B.I want to thank the board and my players for doing their jobs in a professional manner,' mentioned Chida to the media.
For the next season, the goal should be maintenance in Nationale A for the young team.

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  UKRAINE   


Three candidates to Sumy / Rumours - by Alexander Muzyka

- As Sport-Express was informed Sumykhimprom will ink Linas Lekavicius (185-G-84), Abdullahi Kuso (206-F-84) and Brian Green (180-G) this month. Andri Shaptala will rule Sumy's farm team.
Note, Rostyslav Kryvych (198-F-78), Ihor Kryvych (199-F-78) and Oleg Kojenets (208-C-77) will play in BC Donetsk, Oleksandr Zahrybelnyi (202-F/C-76) returned to Higher League Kremin. Andrius Lepinaitis (184-G-81), Vilius Gabsys (199-F-79) and Mykola Yeriomin (204-C-85) left the team, too. Osvaldas Macernis (197-F-82), Yevhen Podorvannyi (194-F/G-78) and Vadym Matiukevych (208-C-80) are the newcomers. Still unknown Sumy's future for Troy DeVries (193-G-82), Andri Malysh (204-C/F-83), Yuri Zozulia (189-G-81) and Branislav Tomic (205-F/C-80).


- Budivelnyk will have camp in Klaipeda from Aug. 5 till Sep. 22 with warm-ups vs BC Siauliai, Neptunas, Lietuvos Rytas, Slask, Bremen, Barons/LMT, ASK Riga, Triumph, BC Khimky and Dynamo M.


- Rumours say Azovmash invited Dimos Dikoudis (207-F/C-77) to Mariupol while Cherkasy Monkeys are interested in Giorgos Diamantopoulos (195-F-80).



Viacheslav Kravtsov Interview - by Alexei Naumov
BC Kyivs center Vyacheslav Kravtsov (212-C-87), who is currently one of the brightest Ukrainian prospects, had a breakthrough season in 2007/08, despite the predictions of numerous doubters last summer. Although he averaged just 5.4 points and 4.0 rebounds per game over 21 Superleague contests, Slava got a chance to play consistent minutes and gain the much needed confidence.

'Everything started last fall in Treviso in our first ULEB Cup game against Benetton, said Viacheslav in his interview with his team's website. Tomo Mahoric put me in the starting lineup then and it was a real surprise to me as well as to all the players. But I didnt let him them down. Kyiv won and I became a lot more confident having realized I was really a part of the team'.

You must have had some concerns prior to the start of the season Mahoric had a number of big men that were more experienced than you were.

'Yeah, when I saw the lineup I was sure I would spend the season on the bench its very hard for a young player to get in the rotation in a situation like that. I was afraid I would be rented out to some weak team where I would be able to play'.

Still, last season was your best so far. Did you look through the press to check what they write about you?

'Honestly yes. It was nice to see what they wrote. But I kept reminding myself to work hard and not take anything for granted. I was very pleased with our performance in the ULEB Cup, where most teams underestimated Kyiv and we surprised them by getting into the Top 16. It was nice to be a part of that'.

Kyiv recently got a new coach. Have you had a chance to meet him?

'Yeah, we already had a few practices where Sasa checked out our young players. I can say that he left a good impression. He knows good stuff for big men and I am looking forward to seeing what hell teach me next season'.

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  UNITED KINGDOM   


Daniel Pulman leads Wales into European Championship Final - by Eurobasket News
Wales U16 - Moldova U16 68:55

Welsh U16 National Team earned the spot in the European Championship in Division C Final. Yesterday they outlasted Moldova to advance to the championship game. There Wales will face their neighbours Scotland on Tuesday. Moldova will play against Gibraltar in the consolation final. Wales opened the game confidently as Daniel Pulman scored quick 5 points to put them in front. He teamed up with Kilmartin to knock back-back to trebles and Wales led 18:15 after ten minutes of action. Cojuhari scored 7 straight points for Moldova to open the second period as they surged ahead 22:20. However Daniel Pulman and Moore kept Wales close. Soon a couple of treys from Kilmartin and Moore allowed Wales to spur in front 37:30. Pulman crowned the first half with two free throws to make it 39:32 for Wales at the interval. Daniel Pulman canned 8 points early in the third stanza and Moldova trailed by 15. Wales maintained the margin throughout the third stanza and enjoyed a 12-point cushion heading into the fourth term. However two trebles from Melniciuc and one more from Mescoi cut the deficit to just 5 points midway through the fourth quarter. But it was once again Daniel Pulman to ensure the winning outcome for the Welsh side. He came up with 5 points in the late stages and brought Wales to the victory. Daniel Pulman finished with impressive 36 points, 8 boards and 6 assists. Moore and Kilmartin had 10 points apiece for the winners. Carali answered with 19 points and 9 boards for Moldova. Melniciuc had 11 points and 11 boards in defeat.

Wales U16: Daniel Pulman 36, Alexander Moore 10, Alex Kilmartin 10
Moldova U16: Vladimir Carali 19, Denis Melniciuc 11+11 boards



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Women News

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  AUSTRALIA - Women  


Australia U18 wins International tournament in France - by Eurobasket News
The youth international basketball season has finished in France this weekend with the 16 edition of Tournoi International Fminin Junior de Fougres. Australia who are actually in preparation for the 2009 world championships are back for the first time since their victory back in 2000.
In the first game Australia beat Romania 64:47 in the opener. Romanian team started better and led 20:16 after the opening quarter. Australia switched to an interesting full court press and reached 38:35 at the half. Later the team from Oceania controlled the game and led the game to the first win. Rachel Jarry led the winners with 13 points, while Tess Madgen posted 11 points.
In their second game against Australia had no problems against Turkey. They easily started with 24:7 and increased to 34:17 at the half. Stephanie Cumming led the winners with 12 points. Tess Madgen and Gretel Tippett netted 11 apiece, whilst Rosie Moult had 10 points. Tugce Canitez (188-F-90) with 10 points was the only player from Turkey in double digits.
Australia won the tournament defeating Lithuania 58:44. Taking full control of the court in the opening quarter Australia went into the interval leading 28:15. Rachel Jarry paced the winners with12 points in the decisive game. Egle Siksniute (193-F-91) top-scored with 10 points for the Baltic team.

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  GERMANY - Women  


U20 wins Four-Nations-Tournament in Luxemburg - by Cornelius Damm
With three wins in three games the German U20 internationals were able to win the Four-Nations-Tournament in Luxemburg (June 26th through June 30th). They beat the Netherlands 72-60, Ireland 66-39 and host Luxemburg 55-51. Head coach Julia Gajewski was pleased with her teams effort. She named compensating playing without two important inside players and the good defense as the two main aspects of the success. The young squad will keep on preparing for the upcoming championship in Chieti/Pescara (ITA) July 11th - 20th 2008 as they head on to Mikulov/Czech Republic for another three games (July 1st - 3rd) against the hosting 2002 European U20 Champion.

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  ISRAEL - Women  


Bnei Yehuda signed Roi Eizenberg - by Eurobasket News
Israeli market is on the hot period right now. The teams improve their rosters making different changes and inviting the foreign players to their teams. Recently Roi Eizenberg signed with Bnei Yehuda. The head coach of the latter team spent the last four seasons in Hapoel Tel Aviv. He had a great start with his previous team winning the championship in 2005/06 season. The last season was not a lucky one as his team was relegated to Division 2 last season after finishing last in the league. Meanwhile Ukrainian Yana Shapiro (196-C-80) and Valentina Voronova (170-G-80) signed with Natanya in Israel. Last season Yana Shapiro spent with Ramat Hasharon and won the regular season with the team. In the Final Play-offs Yana Shapiro's team was defeated by Ramla. Shapiro played for Nataya in D2 previously, and recorded 19.3 ppg and 7.4 rpg.
Valentina Voronova won the regular season with Dnipro in Ukraine and finished second in the play-offs. Tim-Scuf edged the 2007 champions Dnipro in the decisive fifth game of the Final series to clinch the Superleague title. The Kyiv outfit saved the day at the capital winning the fourth game and forcing the title decider. They extended the winning streak in Dnepropetrovsk beating the regular season champions and snatching the crown. Yana Shapiro and Valentina Voronova joined Ornit Shwartz, Sarit Arbel, Ela Karni, Inbar Vaxman and Taly Noy in Natanya.

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  LITHUANIA - Women  


Lithuania U18 finishes third - by Eurobasket News
Lithuanian U18 team had a great preparation time for the upcoming tournaments participating in the youth international basketball season has finished in France this weekend with the 16 edition of Tournoi International Fminin Junior de Fougres. Lithuanian team tried hard in all the games but finished third in France.
Eurobasket followed each day for the Lithuanian team as Turkish U18 National Team outlasted their Lithuanian opponents in the opener. That time Yasemen Saylar dropped 13 points to pace Turkey. Duygu Firat chipped in 12 points, while Ozge Yavas added 10 for the winners. Giedre Paugaite (192-C-90) answered with 19 points for Lithuania. Aurime Rinkeviciute (180-F/G-90) had 15 points, while Lina Pikcuite canned 11 in a losing effort.
Day 2 saw Lithuanian U18 National Team beating Romania 79:62. Aurime Rinkeviciute dropped 30 points to lead the charge. Giedre Paugaite scored 23 points, while Lina Pikciute and Marina Solopova had 7 points apiece for the winners.
In their final match Lithuania faced Australia.By the end of the third period Australia took full advantage of the confusion of their opponents to stretch their advantage to 47:25.Australia won the tournament defeating Lithuania 58:44. Rachel Jarry paced the winners with12 points in the decisive game. Egle Siksniute (193-F-91) top-scored with 10 points for the Baltic team. Aurime Rinkeviciute and Giedre Paugaite were mentioned as All Star team members.

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  NEW ZEALAND - Women  


Kiwis abroad - by Eurobasket News
Tall Blacks point guard Angela Marino (166-G-86) is doing just fine at the Australian Basketball League. She helped her Sturt Sabres to the leagues best record of 11-4. Recently the Sabres knocked down the Norwood Flames 80:71 for the 11th win. Angela Marino came up with 17 points (8/20 FG, 1/4 3pt), 5 assists and 3 boards in a win. The victory also marked the 4th straight success for the Sabres in the league. So they moved on top of the Central ABL. Kiwi point guard averages 22.8 points per game in the ABL.
Adrianne Gilbert had a solid game for the Bankstown Bruins in the Waratah League. She posted 13 points (5/7 FG, 1/1 3pt, 2/4 FT), 7 assists and 3 steals to propel the Bruins past the Canberra Nationals 88:56. The Bruins opened the season with 10 straight wins.
In the meantime Gemma Kerr could not save her Kilsyth Cobras from falling to the Ballarat Lady Miners in the South East Australian Basketball League. Kerr dropped 8 points (2/9 FG, 1/6 3pt, 3/4 FT), grabbed 4 boards and dished out 3 assists in a loss. Gemma Kerr averages 11.7 points, 4.3 boards and 1.8 assists per appearance for the Lady Cobras.
Julie Ofsoski (180-F-73) secured 5 points (1/9 FG, 3/4 FT) and 10 boards as her Frankston Lady Blues dropped the outing to the Ballarat Lady Miners 59:69. Ofsoski's stats read 13.6 points and 6.3 caroms per game in the season.

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  PARAGUAY - Women  


Standings - Women
Metropolitan League Standings
 1. Sol de Am. 10-1 
 2. Olimpia A. 9-1 
 3. UCA 8-3 
 4. UAA 5-5 
 5. Sportivo SL 5-6 
 6. Libertad 3-8 
 7. Felix Perez 2-9 
 8. Ciudad Nueva 0-11 


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  ROMANIA - Women  


Romania U18 loses three in a row in France - by Eurobasket News
The youth international basketball season has finished in France this weekend with the 16 edition of Tournoi International Fminin Junior de Fougres. Romanian team had a great time preparing for the international tournaments. In the first game Australia beat Romania 64:47 in the opener. Romanian team started better and led 20:16 after the opening quarter. Australia switched to an interesting full court press and reached 38:35 at the half. Later the team from Oceania controlled the game and led the game to the first win. Rachel Jarry led the winners with 13 points, while Tess Madgen posted 11 points. Elisabeth Pavel (192-C-90) shined for Romanian team with 17 points and 8 rebounds. Ferenzi nailed 8, while Andreea Pop scored 6.
Romania lost the second game to Lithuania 62:79 on Day 2. Rinkeviciute finished with 30 points including 5-of-9 from the arc. She was supported by Paugaite who netted 23 points. Alina Chivu (180-F-90) ended up with 18 points in the losing effort.
Turkey overcame Romania 81:56 to clinch second place in the tournament. Romania again started better than the opponent taking 20:19 advantage. Turkey bounced back with 21:7 in the next period and had 67:43 before the final stanza.
Australia won the tournament winning all three games.

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  TURKEY - Women  


Turkey U18 clinches second spot in the tournament - by Eurobasket News
The youth international basketball season has finished in France this weekend with the 16 edition of Tournoi International Fminin Junior de Fougres. Turkish side had a great time preparing for the international tournaments. In the first game Turkish U18 National Team outlasted their Lithuanian opponents 76:72. Yasemen Saylar (174-G-90) dropped 13 points to pace Turkey. Duygu Firat chipped in 12 points, while Ozge Yavas (170-G-91) added 10 for the winners. Giedre Paugaite answered with 19 points for Lithuania. Aurime Rinkeviciute had 15 points, while Lina Pikcuite canned 11 in a losing effort.
In their second game against Australia had no problems against Turkey. They easily started with 24:7 and increased to 34:17 at the half. Stephanie Cumming led the winners with 12 points. Tess Madgen and Gretel Tippett netted 11 apiece, whilst Rosie Moult had 10 points. Tugce Canitez (188-F-90) with 10 points was the only player from Turkey in double digits.
Turkey overcame Romania 81:56 to clinch second place in the tournament. Romania again started better than the opponent taking 20:19 advantage. Turkey bounced back with 21:7 in the next period and had 67:43 before the final stanza.

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  UKRAINE - Women  


Shapiro and Voronova join Natanya - by Eurobasket News
Ukrainian Yana Shapiro (196-C-80) and Valentina Voronova (170-G-80) signed with Natanya in Israel. Last season Yana Shapiro spent with Ramat Hasharon and won the regular season with the team. In the Final Play-offs Yana Shapiro's team was defeated by Ramla. Shapiro played for Nataya in D2 previously, and recorded 19.3 ppg and 7.4 rpg.
Valentina Voronova won the regular season with Dnipro in Ukraine and finished second in the play-offs. Tim-Scuf edged the 2007 champions Dnipro in the decisive fifth game of the Final series to clinch the Superleague title. The Kyiv outfit saved the day at the capital winning the fourth game and forcing the title decider. They extended the winning streak in Dnepropetrovsk beating the regular season champions and snatching the crown. Yana Shapiro and Valentina Voronova joined Ornit Shwartz, Sarit Arbel, Ela Karni, Inbar Vaxman and Taly Noy in Natanya.