EUROBASKET NEWS REPORT - 7/22/2008

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Men News

*****************************************************
  CHILE   


Dimayor: market news - by Daniel Valencia
Just a few days before the start of Dimayor a few teams reach agreements with their foreigners for the upcoming season.

Boston College

Boston signed a contract with the forward Trevon Bryant (206-F) as the first foreigner of the team. In his first game he scored 13 points.

CD Puente Alto

Before the start of Dimayor CD Puente Alto released Dexter Gray (201-F-85). To replace Gray they signed a contract with Joseph Works (201-F-83). In his first game he contributed with 12 points coming of the bench.

Universidad Catolica

Just one day before the start of the season, Catolica reach an agreement with the argentinian Walter Storani (200-F/C-70) as their second import player for the 08/09 season. Storani played on saturday night, scoring 24 points.

Dimayor 08/09: Round 2 results - by Daniel Valencia
Universidad Catolica and Deportivo Valdivia were the big winners of the first weekend of action in Dimayor 08/09. On sunday night, Catolica defeated Boston 73-63 with a 21 points effort from Walter Storani. In Valdivia, Deportivo Valdivia defeated Provincial Llanquihue 78-55. Bobby Madison and Deshawn Danzey scored 24 and 19 points respectively for the winners. These are the complete results of round 2.

Round 2

Liceo Mixto 90 - CD Puente Alto 68
Lic: Brandon Mason 21 pts. Kevin Frey 15 pts. Patrick Saez 14 pts.
Pue: Mauricio Cisternas 18 pts. German Siegmund 13 pts. Theo Little 11 pts.

Universidad Catolica 73 - Boston College 63
Uc: Walter Storani 21 pts. Juan Pablo Montas 13 pts. Felipe Contreras 12 pts.
Bos: Felipe Ziegele 18 pts. Trevon Bryant 15 pts. Francisco Coro 7 pts.

Deportivo Valdivia 78 - Provincial Llanquihue 55
Val: Bobby Madison 24 pts. Deshawn Danzey 19 pts. Tony Bishop 13 pts.
Llan: Ignacio Navarrete 11 pts. Sebastian Raimann 9 pts. Vjekoslav Rafaeli 9 pts.

Provincial Osorno 72 - Universidad de Los Lagos 80
Oso: Rodrigo Zuniga 22 pts. Cristian Perez 15 pts. Emilio Paris 13 pts.
Ula: Tim Jennings 27 pts. Dean Browne 19 pts. Donald Gray 14 pts.

Dimayor 08/09: Round 1 results - by Daniel Valencia
On saturday night began the 08/09 edition of Dimayor league. The biggest surprise of the first round was the victory of Boston College playing as visitors against the champion Liceo Mixto. Despite playing without Erik Carrasco (suspended) and with only one foreigner they defeated Pablo Ares' team 102-97, with Marcos Cornez (195-F-82) as the key offensive player with 27 points. With Walter Storani (200-F/C-70) (24 points) as the leader, Universidad Catolica defeated CD Puente Alto 80-72 on saturday night. Playing as visitors, CD Universidad de Concepcion defeated Deportivo Espanol de Talca 83-66. The nigerian Jefferson Agba (210-F/C-80, college: Embry Riddle) was the offensive key for Concepcion with 26 points. Deportivo Valdivia was too much for Universidad de Los Lagos and ended the night with a 71-61 victory. Bobby Madison (198-F-82, agency: Duran International, college: W.Michigan) scored 27 points for the winners. Led by the point guard DaJuan Gouard (189-G-83, agency: Promotex, college: Loyola, IL) (19 points), Provincial Osorno defeated Provincial Llanquihue 83-60. In the game between both teams from the Chiloe Island, Deportes Ancud defeated Deportes Castro 63-62. Eduardo Baeta (195-G/F-84) scored 18 points for the winners.

Round 1

Liceo Mixto 97 - Boston College 102
Lic: Brandon Mason 23 pts. Patricio Briones 20 pts. Patrick Saez 19 pts.
Bos: Marcos Cornez 27 pts. Felipe Ziegele 24 pts. Patricio Arroyo 17 pts.

Universidad Catolica 80 - CD Puente Alto 72
Uc: Walter Storani 24 pts. Mike Elliot 19 pts. Felipe Contreras 11 pts.
Pue: John Davis 28 pts. Mauricio Cisternas 16 pts. Joseph Works 12 pts.

Deportivo Espanol de Talca 66 - CD Universidad de Concepcion 83
Esp: Marques Hayden 17 pts. Jose Madrid 15 pts. Sebastian Saez 15 pts.
Ucon: Jefferson Agba 26 pts. Evandro Arteaga 22 pts. Nakiea Miller 17 pts.

Club Deportivo Valdivia 71 - Universidad de Los Lagos 61
Val: Bobby Madison 27 pts. Francisco Bravo 12 pts. Tony Bishop 12 pts.
Ula: Tim Jennings 15 pts. Dean Browne 13 pts. Michael Ernst 12 pts.

Provincial Osorno 83 - Provincial Llanquihue 60
Oso: DaJuan Gouard 19 pts. Rodrigo Zuniga 16 pts. Cristian Perez 14 pts.
Llan: Vjekoslav Rafaeli 14 pts. Ignacio Navarrete 12 pts. Javier Schwerter 7 pts.

Deportes Ancud 63 - Deportes Castro 62
Anc: Eduardo Baeta 18 pts. Leonardo Alves 17 pts. Marcos Hubner 10 pts.
Cas: Duane John 24 pts. Jose Luis Campos 10 pts. Roy Morris 10 pts.

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  DOMINICAN REPUBLIC   


Los Cocolos de San Pedro Strong Start - by Herubey Grassals
Sammy Villegas (198-G-83, agency: Next Level, college: Toledo) made a three point shoot with 3 seconds left on the game to give los cocolos de san pedro a big win over los constituyentes de san cristobal with score of 88-87, with this triumph los cocolos are 2-0 and los constituyentes 1-1. The best player for the winner were Henry Lalane (199-F-78, college: St.Francis,NY) with 27 points, Sammy Villegas and Alberto Ozuna (203-F-82) finish with 19 points each one, for the losers Franklin Western (200-F-72, college: Providence) made 31 and Hansel Salvador (186-G-80) finish with 30.

Other Results
Marlon Dumond and Reggie Charles (200-F-81, agency: Global Sports Plaza) combine for 43 points to help Los Caeros de La Romana defeat Las Panteras del Distrito Nacional by score of 85-78, and Los Metros de Santiago defeat Los Marineros de Puerto Plata by score of 111-104, the best for the winners were Alejandro Salas with 25 puntos; Osvaldo Lopez (189-G/F-83), 22 and Joel Ramirez (191-G-81), 19. For the lost cause the best were Carlos Morban (187-G-82, agency: Global Sports Plaza, college: Florida Intern.) with 27 and Jamaal Thomas (202-F-80, college: Angelo St.) with 25.

LIDOBA: Reales 90, Indios 87 - by Jaime Gomez
For Reales de La Vega, Damond Williams (197-F-80, agency: HM Sports Agency, college: Mc Neese St.) 16 points, 7 rebounds and 5 steals, Juan Coronado (198-F-90) 14 points and 4 steals, William Gomez (198-F/G-81, agency: Court Side) 12 points and 7 rebounds, Jorge Almanzar (193-G/F-76) 12 points, Andres Sandoval (193-G-83, agency: AI Sports MM) 11 points and 8 assists, Bobby Pandy (198-F, college: Tex.A&M-Comm.) 9 points and 14 rebounds.

For Indios de San Francisco, Michael Dean 25 points, Benyi Minaya (180-G) 18 points, Abe Keita (209-C-79, college: St.John's) 11 points and 7 rebounds, Anderson Hernandez (191-G/F-80) 11 points.

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  ESTONIA   


Two teams withdraw from the Korvpaliliga - by Ozell Wells
According to Delfi & Sportnet EE, both Tartu Fausto and Kraft Moobel have stopped operations in the Korvpali Master's League.
This leaves on 8 teams to participate in the 2008/2009 season: Tartu Rock, BC Kalev/ Cramo, BC Pirita, Dalkia/Nybit, Valga Welg, KK Parnu/Catwees, Rakvere Tarvas and TTU.
Both teams have seemingly tremendous economic problems haunting the clubs with numerous players stating that they are owed large sums of money. Namely, the club of BC Kraf Moobel owed money to over half of the players on its roster, as well as its coaching staff.
What will become of the remaining teams remains to be seen, as Estonia as a whole, is facing a looming economic recession according to current financial media outlets.

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  FRANCE   


Pro A : Justin Doellmann to Besanon - by Aurelien Hipp
*Newcomer in ProA, the team of Besanon has signed Justin Doellman (206-F-85, agency: Octagon, college: Xavier) for next season. Doellman, seen in Cholet last season, will hope to play a full season there, after having had a complicated season (injured, he had to miss 20 games). Doellman will bring his versatile profile on the power-forward spot, playing beside John Ford. Besancon is close to end the year signings and will prepare for next season in ProA, hoping to stay more than 1 season. He posted 8.4ppg and 2.9rbds last year in only 10 games with Cholet.

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  GERMANY   


First new player for USC Freiburg - by Moritz Korff
USC Freiburg (2. Bundesliga Pro B) signed Sebastian Harke (203-F/C-81, agency: Scorers 1st Sportmanagement) to a contract for the 2008-09 season. The 26-year-old Power Forward played 30 games for the Iserlohn Kangaroos in the last campaign with averages of 12.6 points, 6.8 rebounds and 1.5 assists. Harke made the Eurobasket.com All-German 2. Bundesliga Pro B All-Newcomers Team. Before he moved to Iserlohn he scored 13.9 points per contest for the Aschersleben Tigers in the Regionalliga North during the 06-07 season.

Sean Brooks stays in Crailsheim - by Moritz Korff
Sean Brooks (196-F/C-82, agency: Scorers 1st Sportmanagement, college: Drexel) will spend one more season on the roster of the Proveo Merlins Crailsheim (2. Bundesliga Pro B). The 25-year-old Post Player joined the Merlins in December 2007 and enjoyed a succesful second half of this past season with the team, averaging 15.6 points, 8.5 rebounds, 2.4 assists and 1.1 steals in 18 games. The year before Brooks was a force in the paint for ASC Theresianum Mainz. 'Small town, great gym and crazy fans! Its cool!', Brooks stated on the website of the club, why he chose to sign the contract-extension.

Artland Dragons hire assistant coach - by Moritz Korff
The Artland Dragons Quakenbrueck (1. Bundesliga) announced Sunday that they hired their former assistant coach Jamie Duncan to the same position with their team. The Canadian returns to Quakenbrueck after one year on the coaching squad of Euphony Bree, where he served as an assistant to Don Beck. Duncan was supposed to spend another season in Belgium, but decided to accept the offer of the Artland Dragons. He played college-basketball at Brock University in Canada and graduated in 2001, followed by a couple of seasons as pro in Quakenbrueck and Duesseldorf, winning the 2002-03 2. Bundesliga-championship with the Dragons. In 2006 the 31-year-old became a coach and spent his first season in the new job as an assistant coach to Chris Fleming with the Artland Dragons.

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  GREECE   


PAOK and third Bulgarian team close to the Balkan league - by George Manousidis
The Greek BC PAOK and third team from Bulgaria are close to be part of the Balkan basketball league in the first season of the international competition.

The Sports Director of the BIBL Mr. Shay Shtiks said for www.balkanleague.net: The information that we got is that PAOK Thessaloniki probably will play in the Balkan league. About the second team from Greece, there is no decision yet.

Regarding the question about BC Strumicas situation Mr. Shtriks commented, that the club had huge problem with the old sponsor, but they are doing the best to find a new one.

What I understood is that on Friday they already had meeting. I spoke with the federation and they decided together with me to give them up till July 22nd a deadline. But because I see, that they are doing the best to find normal sponsor and they are honest with us and they update us all the time, I believe we should give them this chance. If not, its not obvious, that instead of Strumica well have other team from F.Y.R. of Macedonia, because it was a wild card. So if there is going to be a new team, we have to check it, said BIBLs Sports Director.

Other news is that we probably are going to have third them from Bulgaria. So what is look like, that we have 3 teams from Bulgaria, 3 teams from Serbia, 3 from F.Y.R. of Macedonia, 2 teams from Romania and one team from Greece.

Regarding sponsor within the next 2 weeks well close probably with the main sponsor and there are another 2-3 small sponsors and I believe up till August 10th we can announce it, added Mr. Shay Shtriks.

Olympiakos close to landing Josh Childress! - by Serafim Karaiskakis
Olympiakos is trying to pull off the transfer of the summer by bringing NBA star and starter, Josh Childress (203-G/F-83, college: Stanford, over from Atlanta Hawks. The Stanford graduate was drafted by the Hawks as the 6th overall pick in in 2004. In his fourth season with Hawks he averaged 11.8ppg, 4.9rpg, 1.5apg, FGP: 57.1%, 3PT: 36.7%, FT: 80.7%, in 78 games in the 2007-08 regular season. Olympiakos management is determined to sign a big name from the NBA for the SF position. (edited by Jeremy Rubio)

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  HAITI   


National Championship results - by Stardeak Durand
Here are the results of the National Basket-ball Championship / Week 4.

Topaz - ASBA 74-73
Alexis Brunel ( Topaz ): 33 points, 2 rebounds and 1 assist

Bazooka - Ninja 74-64
Ghandy Antoine ( Bazooka ): 16 points, 7 rebounds and 1 assist

Exposant - Dynamic 85-60
Dickson Pierre-Charles ( Exposant ): 21 points, 5 rebounds and 2 assists

Giants - Bota's House 102-91
Christopher Philmon ( Giants ): 23 points, 30 rebounds, 4 blocks, 4 assists and 2 steals

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  ISRAEL   


Market News - by Netanel Dahan
Omar Sneed (203-F/C-76) an American forward who played the past year in Maccabi Rishon LeZion and averaged 16.4ppg 7.5rpg and 4.4ppg Signed Officially in Hapoel 'Migdal' Jerusalem for 1 year.
Raz Zehavian (197-F-82) who played the last year in Maccabi Ashdod and averaged 10.5ppg and 3.7rpg signed in Maccabi Rishon LeZion for 2 years.
Moshe Vainkartz is the new coach of Bnei Hasharon. Vainkartz is one of the most experienced coaches in the Israeli league.
Galil\Gilboa signed to 2 young Israeli players:
Yotam Shiran (198-F-90) and Ron Sabag (184-G-90) both of them were in the group of the five excellent players in the youth league.
Doron Sheffer thinks of retirement and become manager of Hapoel Zfat for the Division 3 in the Israeli league or to stay as a player.
Maccabi Electra Tel Aviv is searching for Forward foreigner player.
Mony Fanan the legendary manager of Maccabi Tel Aviv retired from the job after the press conference, where he explains why.
Gur Shelef will replace him.

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  ITALY   


Serie A market news - by Gianni Pascucci
Lottomatica Virtus Roma announced the agreement with Primoz Brezec (216-F/C-79), Upim Fortitudo Bologna signed Matteo Malaventura (196-G-78) with a two year contract. Eldo Juvecaserta announced that Guillermo Diaz (188-G-85, college: Miami, FL) did not use his 'NBA escape' clause and, in consequence, will stay in the team for the upcoming season. Scandone Air Avellino inked Tamar Slay (204-G-80, college: Marshall) with a two year contract.

Lega 2 market resume - by Gianni Pascucci
Aurora Fileni Jesi signed Marco Sambugaro (196-G/F-71). Aget imola agreed to terms with Michele Ferri (191-G-85, agency: Interperformances). Scafati Basket inked Walter Santarossa (200-F-78). Prima Veroli announced the agreement with Massimo Rezzano (204-F/C-82, agency: Interperformances), who inked a two-year contract. Fastweb Casale Monferrato added to its roster Rodger Farrington (200-C-76, college: Arizona St.). New Basket Brindisi and coach Giovanni Perdichizzi agreed to extend their pact till june of 2010. Pallacanestro Roseto 1946 signed Marco Pazzi (203-C-79)

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  JAMAICA   


Bulls toy with JDF - by Leonard Whyte
The Port Royal Bulls are one of the two newcomers to the 2008 Kentucky Fried Chicken (KFC)/National Basketball League (NBL) but you would never know it. The Bulls defeated JDF 64-57 last night to run their record to 10-0 and take over first place in the standings from defending champions Urban Knights who are also unbeaten with a 9-0 record. Both teams are set to clash for the first time on Thursday, July 24, 2008, but Knights still had a date with a dangerous Portmore Flames team the day before the anticipated clash.

Last night at the Stadium courts, the Bulls apperaed disinterested and allowed JDF to dictate play early. Bulls fans suffered many anxious moments for the first three quarters as their team's lethargic play left them trailing their rivals 35-41 going into the fourth quarter. Not to worry, the Bulls began the quarter with an emphatic 15-0 run that seem to catch JDF napping. They took the lead 50-41 and from there the issue was no longer in doubt. The winners posted four players in double-figures as Kenardo Wright led the way with 13 points, followed by Leighton Meeks with 12, and Paul Brown and captain Dovian Wade added 11 points each. Raymond Francis led JDF (4-6) with a game-high 22 points followed by Dermaine Foster with 15 points.

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  JORDAN   


7th King Abdullah II Cup (July 25-31) Info. - by Mohammed Malas
The 7th edition of King Abdullah II Cup will stat from the beginning of next Friday until the 31st of July under the participation of 9 teams which were divided to 2 groups...

# Group A:
Jordan - Hosts & Titleholders
Egypt
Syria
Morocco

# Group B:
Qatar
Lebanon
Cyprus
Kuwait
Tunisia

# The Cup's system:
It will be based playing a round robin in the 1st round then the 1st & 2nd of each group to meet in the semi-finals then the final.

# The court:
The games will be played in Prince Hamza Hall in Amman, The court is ready to welcome the teams...

# TV Chennels:
The lebanese tv network Future will broadcast the tournament (Some games are live and others will be recoded and will be viewed on the same day).

# 1st round schedule (Jordan Time +3 GMT):
* Friday 25/7:
1530 Kwuait - Tunisia
1800 Jordan - Morocco
2000 Qatar - Lebanon
* Saturday 26/7:
1600 Egypt - Syria
1800 Qatar - Kuwait
2000 Tunisia - Cyprus
* Sunday 27/7:
1400 Morocco - Egypt
1600 Kuwait - Lebanon
1800 Syria - Jordan
2000 Cyprus - Qatar
* Monday 28/7:
1600 Morocco - Syria
1800 Lebanon - Cyprus
2000 Qatar - Tunisia
* Tuesday 28/7:
1600 Cyprus - Kuwait
1800 Jordan - Egypt
2000 Tunisia - Lebanon

Jordan National team will entir this cup without their key players 'They will have some rest' after the decision of the Portuguese head coach Mario Leonel Palma to depend on youngesters and give them the chance to gain some experience.

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  KBDL   


Boris Siakam has signed to play for the MAVERICKS - by Thom McQueen
Boris Siakam (6'7''-F, college: W.Kentucky), of the Lebanon Lancers has signed to play Forward for the MAVERICKS, an ABA expansion team. Siakam at 6 7 was a solid player for the Lancers. As a forward he played as the number 5 man on many occasions for the Western Kentucky Hilltoppers. He recorded career-high averages with 4.5 points and 3.2 rebounds per outing. He shot a team-leading 74.6 percent from the field, posting 10 outings without missing an attempt. Boris was a leading player for the KBDL and the Lancers.

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  LIBERIA   


Pythons prepare for club championship - by Numennie Williams
As the date for the Zone III basketball Club Champion of the Federation of International Basketball Association (FIBA) draws nearer, Liberias champion NPA Pythons has begun intensive training for the competition.
The team is undergoing some physical fitness programs including long distance jogging.
Speaking to this paper at the weekend, the Head Coach of the team, Matthew Gbarmore, expressed optimism that his team will make a mark at the upcoming competition slated for next month in Nigeria.
He called on the Management of the National Port Authority (NPA) to support the team by underwriting the cost of the teams travel as well as per diems, among others, to ensure the successful participation of the team. He also assured the NPA Management that his players are fit and ready for the club championship and called on fans of the team to support the team financially to enable it team make the trip to Nigeria.
Pythons could not represent the country last year due to the clubs failure to shoulder the traveling expenses of the team which led to the team being fined.


Alphonso Kuiah (-86)

Liberia may not partake in Zone III Qualifiers - by Numennie Williams
The senior national basketball team of Liberia may not participate in the qualifying rounds of the African Nations Basketball Championship slated for the 28th of this month in Ivory Coast.
Speaking to this paper over the weekend in Monrovia, the Secretary General of the Liberia Basketball Federation (LBF) Fred Pratt said the Government of Liberia has informed the federation of its inability to underwrite the cost of the teams travel for the competition.
The national basketball team is placed in Zone III with Niger, Burkina Faso, Ghana, Togo, Benin, Guinea, Sierra Leone, Nigeria and Mali. The qualification round is intended to select countries to partake in the 2009 Nations Championship.
Liberia risks being slapped with a fine and suspension for some years if she fails to participate in the upcoming championship games which many basketball connoisseurs say is dangerous for the development of basketball in Liberia.
The Under-16 male and female teams are expected to participate in the African Youth Championship in Benin next month. The two teams are presently undergoing intensive training, but the players are worried that they may face similar fate as the senior team.

Mark Smith (-87)

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  NCAA1   


Arrow extends at USA - by Kevin Cochran

South Alabama coach Ronnie Arrow signed a two-year contract extension to keep him with the school through the 2013 season.

Financial terms of the deal were not disclosed.

Arrow, who also coached the Jaguars from 1988-94 before getting fired, guided the team to a school-record 26 wins last campaign, a third straight Sun Belt Conference East Division title and the program's eighth NCAA Tournament appearance. South Alabama lost to Butler in the first round.

'We are really pleased about the success that coach Arrow had in his first year back with us,' Jaguars athletic director Joe Gottfried said. 'To blend both returning players and new players, record a 26-7 mark, win the Sun Belt Conference East Division and advance to the NCAA Tournament in his first season back is a real credit to his leadership.'

Arrow also was named Sun Belt Conference Coach of the Year, becoming just the second coach in league history to claim the award three times. Under his direction last season, the Jaguars became just the second school in league history to place four players on the All-Conference teams.

'Everything starts with the head coach, but what this extension is a reflection of the work put in by our players and my assistant coaches to have been able to get us where we wanted to be, which was the NCAA Tournament last year,' Arrow said. 'I think it is a tribute to the team that we had and a tribute to my assistant coaches for our extension.'

Courtesy: PA Sportsticker



Stepheson to play at SC - by Kevin Cochran
Alex Stepheson (6'9''-F) plans to transfer from North Carolina to USC according to a report by the Los Angeles Daily News.

The 6-9 junior forward averaged 4.3 points and 4.5 rebounds per game for the Tar Heels last season. He will have two years of eligibility remaining and likely will need to sit out the 2008-09 campaign.

There is a chance Stepheson could play this season if it is determined by the NCAA that the transfer is due to medical considerations. Stepheson said in a statement when leaving North Carolina in May that he wanted to be closer to his father, Art, who is battling heart-related issues.

Courtesy: PA Sportsticker

Pettway going back to Tuscaloosa - by Kevin Cochran
Alabama has named former point guard Antoine Pettway as an assistant coach.

Pettway played four seasons at Alabama, averaging 9.1 points during his senior campaign and helping the Crimson Tide reach the Elite Eight in the 2004 NCAA Tournament.

He has spent the last two years as an assistant at Jacksonville St..

'I have a great belief in Antoine, ' Alabama head coach Mark Gottfried said. 'As a player, he was a great leader. He epitomized the definition of toughness and he played with such heart. I've watched him closely as a player and then later as a member of my staff in our office and I think he will bring a lot to our staff.'

Courtesy: PA Sportsticker


Patterson showing signs of progress - by Kevin Cochran
Kentucky coach Billy Gillespie says forward Patrick Patterson (6'9''-F-89) is progressing well as he recovers from a stress fracture in his left ankle.

'He's working hard,' Gillespie says. 'He had surgery and he was going to be in a cast for six weeks and a boot for six weeks. They took x-rays after they took off the cast and they said the healing was farther along than expected. So, they put him in the boot and he is going in for another x-ray. He's been doing a lot rehab in the pool on campus in the underwater treadmill. It's a great rehabilitation device. It's probably helped him with conditioning and I think it may help him return a little quicker. He's been doing his rehab on the treadmill, but he hasn't been able to return to the court yet. I think that the treadmill will help him return to the court in about three or four weeks. It looks like things are way ahead of schedule as far as recovery.'

Patterson led the Wildcats with 16.4 points and 7.7 rebounds per game last season.

Okosun leaves Seton Hall - by Kevin Cochran

Seton Hall junior center Augustine Okosun (6'10''-F/C) has left the mens basketball program and will pursue transfer opportunities, coach Bobby Gonzalez announced Friday.

The native of Nigeria played in 30 games for the Pirates last season, starting 11, in his only year with the Pirates. The 6-11 Okosun averaged 1.8 points and 2.0 rebounds in just under 10 minutes per game.

'Augustine worked hard for us and was a solid contributor last season,' Gonzalez said. 'Unfortunately, we were not able to afford him the playing time he desired. With his release, hell be able to play more at another school. I wish him the best of luck.'


Courtesy: PA Sportsticker



Carter moves East - by Kevin Cochran

Massachusetts head coach Derek Kellogg has announced the addition of Sean Carter (6'9''-F/C) as a transfer from Oregon St.. Carter, who stands 6-9 and weighs 225 pounds, is enrolled in summer classes at UMass and will sit out the 2008-09 season as a redshirt. The athletic bigman comes to UMass as a sophomore with three years of eligibility remaining, starting with the 2009-10 season, after playing this past season as a true freshman with the Beavers.

'We are very excited to add a young man with the character, work ethic and enthusiasm of Sean Carter,' said Kellogg, who was hired as UMass' head coach in April. 'On the court, Sean has the intangibles we are looking for in a student-athlete. He adds much-needed size and athleticism in the front court. With his rebounding and shot-blocking ability he will be able to come in and contribute as we look forward to the future of UMass basketball.'

Carter played in 29 games with Oregon State this past season, starting nine for the Beavers. He averaged 3.3 points and 2.8 rebounds while swatting 15 shots in 15.4 minutes of action per night. He had his best games of the season early on. He tallied a career-best 15 points and added five rebounds in a win over Portland on Nov. 25. He also had 10 points and five rebounds against Idaho State on Nov. 23. Carter posted a career-best nine rebounds against Washington State on Feb. 14.

Carter prepped at Laurinburg Institute in North Carolina in 2006-07, the same school which produced fellow UMass bigman Tyrell Lynch (6'9''-F). He spent his senior year at Laurinburg and averaged 12 points and six rebounds per game for the prep powerhouse. Carter attended the 71st High School in Fayetteville, N.C., for his first three years of high school and played two years on varsity, starting as a junior.



Courtesy: NCAA.com




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  NEW ZEALAND   


Jet Suspended - by Eurobasket News
Basketball New Zealand has accepted a Sports Tribunal of New Zealand decision to suspend Manawatu Jet Stacey Lambert (190-G-76) until September 16 after he tested positive for cannabis. Lambert returned a positive sample after the Jets round 13 National Basketball League game against the Bay Hawks in Taradale on May 21. He waived the right to have his B sample analysed and admitted the violation in the Tribunal hearing on July 11. BBNZ had sought a provisional suspension on June 6 until the hearing was held but after the Jets offered to stand him down for their final regular season game the following night and the Tribunal decided not to impose a provisional suspension. The Tribunal suspended Lambert for two months, which prevents him having any part - playing, coaching, refereeing, administrating - in basketball organised, authorised or sanctioned by BBNZ or any other sport under the Drug Free Sport umbrella.
As any sports organisation would be, we are concerned with positive tests, Basketball New Zealand CEO Dale Stephens said. We continue to work with Drug Free Sport to enhance our education for all participants in basketball and remain totally committed to the policies of Drug Free Sport.
Courtesy of: www.basketball.org.nz

EXCLUSIVE Interview with NZ Junior National Team star Dion Prewster - by Kahn Hart
Kahn Hart of australiabasket.com spoke to Dion Prewster (196-G/F-91) who is one of the most talented young basketball players New Zealand has seen in a long time, displaying athleticism unlike any player in the country and an all around game which is constantly improving. Last year Dion left New Zealand's shores for the land of opportunity the United States of America, where he was due to play for Iowa City High School, however things turned sour when the Iowa High School Athletic Association decided that Dion was recruited to play basketball at the school which is illegal under Iowa rules, the circumstances surrounding this ruling were very cloudy but after sitting out the season, things have improved for Prewster as he recieved a scholarship to attend one of the premier Junior Colleges in the USA, San Jacinto CC. We spoke to Dion about his time in the USA and what is in store for him over the next few seasons.

Hi Dion, the situation you had at Iowa City High School where you were ruled ineligible by the state of Iowa for allegedly being recruited was in the news back in New Zealand, the whole situation must have been frustrating for you?

Dion- Yes it really was hard because the fact I couldn't play the whole year was a bummer. It was my last year of high school and our team was very successful and won the state championship but I was still able to be apart of it by practicing all year as well as becoming a better player so some positive things happened along the way.

What do you know about San Jacinto CC? I remember it being the school Steve Francis (191-G-77, college: Maryland) attended before Maryland.

Dion- The first thing I noticed is that they're a winning program and coach Scott Gernander has been there for over thirty years so he's very loyal to the program and his players. Also a lot of the players that graduate from there go on to division 1 schools and some of their well known success stories such as Steve Francis, Sam Cassell (191-G-69, college: Florida St.) and many others. Overall it's a great place for me to develop my game but also Coach Gernander knows the game really well.

What would make this next season at San Jacinto a success in your eyes?

Dion- I think if I can contribute to the team and also work hard on my game then everything else will fall into place. Of course we want to win the national championship as well but that's a given for any team. We play to win don't we?

For those people who havent seen you play yet, how would you describe your game?

Dion- My game has really been more of a slasher/unselfish player and people always notice the athleticism but Im rounding out the rest of game such as my shooting and ball handling which has improved a lot from a year ago.

In 2005 you played with the New Zealand Junior Tall Blacks at the USA Basketball Youth
Development Festival and you scored 14 points and grabbed 7 rebounds against O.J. Mayo (196-G-87, college: USC) and his USA squad as a 15 year old I might add, describe how that tournament was for you?

Dion- The experience was an eye opener for me because being so young and comparing my game to those guys at the time such as O.J. Mayo, Greg Oden (213-C-88, college: Ohio St.), Mike Conley (186-G-87, college: Ohio St.), and D.J. Augustin (180-G-87), it made me want to work harder as a basketball player.

It must have been pretty big to be so young and playing against a bunch of certain future NBA stars such as Greg Oden and O.J. Mayo?

Dion- Yes it was a learning curve because they were getting ready for College and the NBA and I had always been the best or one of the best back home in New Zealand so therefore knew I had to work a lot harder. Also it gave me a lot of confidence in myself because I could hold my own against them.

Players like Alex Pledger (216-C-87), Thomas Abercrombie (198-G-87, college: Washington St.) and Jeremiah Trueman (206-F-87, college: San Diego Chr.) got quite a bit of interest from colleges while attending that tournament and inevitably received scholarships, did any schools show interest in you?

Dion- To be honest, none at all really. Which made kind of mad because I thought I performed well but also I think at the time my game had a lot of holes in it so that could have been a factor.

What would be your ideal situation to go into in terms of a division 1 college?

Dion- I think any division 1 school that is willing to pay for your education is ideal but wherever I might end up I just want to be able to help contribute to the team and play. This past year not being allowed to play made me appreciate the game of basketball so much more.

You played at the Albert Schweitzer youth international tournament a few months back, how was that experience?

Dion- Any time you get to represent your country it's an honor and at the same time you get to go against international competition that have different styles of play which makes it a great experience.

What are the main things you want to work on this season?

Dion- Specifically I really want to get stronger because it's so important, your body can take a beating after a long season and also it prepares you for the next level because players are always stronger at that level. Overall just keep making strides in rounding out my game and skills.

What are your long term goals?

Dion- To enjoy playing the game of basketball but also maybe one day make a living off of it, because I have so much passion and love for the game that I can't see myself not being involved in it. Even it means doing coaching of some sort, which would be awesome.

Thanks very much for your time Dion we wish you the best for your upcoming season at San Jacinto CC and with the NZ Junior National Team.

Stats Leaders
NBL Stats Leaders
Points Per Game
Wethers (Pistons) 27.6
Gayle (Nuggets) 26.9
Tisby (Nuggets) 24.2
Horton (Jets) 24.1
Crowe (Pistons) 21.7
Rebounds Per Game
Tisby (Nuggets) 10.8
Abrams (Taranaki) 9.78
Davis (Jets) 9.72
Owens (Saints) 9.69
Rampton (Taranaki) 9.56
Assists Per Game
Crowe (Pistons) 8.33
Martin (Saints) 6.56
Henare (Hawks) 5.78
Kenny (Heat) 4.50
Baker (Stars) 4.33


*****************************************************
  NIGERIA   


Islanders succumbs to Union Bank - by Olusegun Ikuesan
Islanders basketball club at the weekend succumbs to the superior fire-power of Union Bank basketball club in an Atlantic conference pairing at the sports hall of the Lagos national stadium.

The match which saw the bankers winning in three of the four quarters leaving the Islanders to pick one (18-11, 10-17, 08-05 and 23-16) saw the Islanders players putting every hands and foot wrong upon resumption of play in the third quarter through the fourth after a beautiful display in the second quarter.

The lose to Union Bank basketball club at the weekend was the second in a row has now forced the Ogoh Odaudu tutored side down the conference table as it now occupies the third spot behind Union Bank and Ebun Comets basketball club.

. Potters pip Tapgun Rockets at home 71-64

And in Jos, Plateau State capital the dwindling fortune of Tapgun Rockets basketball club continues unabated as it lost at home to Niger Potters basketball club of Minna.

Potters who penultimate weekend handed down a 110-77 points defeat of Bauchi Net in Minna was too much for the Tapgun players whose campaign in the Nigeria premier league so far has been anything smooth.

While in Kano last Thursday, Adolescent Information & Health Project, AHIP Giant basketball club of Kano narrowly defeated Plateau Peaks basketball club by 52-50 points in what observers described as questionable calls by the referees handling the match especially in the last seconds of the game.


. Bauchi Net land in Lagos for points

Bauchi Net basketball club will Tuesday continue its road trip game to the Atlantic conference of the premier league with a game against Union Bank basketball club at the sports hall of the Lagos national stadium.

The once vibrant Savannah conference team will take to the floor against Nigeria Customs Service basketball club on Wednesday and battle against Ebun Comets basketball club on Thursday.

The team will round off its road game to the Atlantic conference with games against Dodan Warriors and Islanders basketball clubs on Friday and Saturday respectively.

Chris Okoh (199-F-85)

NWBBA list 16 for camping - by Olusegun Ikuesan
After a rigorous screening exercise for U23 Men Wheelchair basketballers which ended last weekend in Lagos the Nigeria Wheelchair Basketball Association, NWBBA has penciled down sixteen names for camping ahead the Africa qualifiers schedule for Johannesburg, South Africa later in the year.

According to the 2nd Vice-President of the association and coordinator of the six-day screening exercise, OBrien Adoki the sixteen players were picked out of the fifty that reported for the exercise sponsored by First Deepwater Discovery Limited.

Adoki gave the name of the 16 lucky players from where a final list of twelve players will emerged as Ajibade Kayode, Okungbowa Alinco, Ozurumba Victor, Murtala Mohammed, Adetayo Kehinde, Amodu Stephen, Richard Patrick, Ogunbona Hammed, Lawal Olatunji and Ajani Idowu.

Others include, Olanipekun Gbenga, Peter Osa-Kelvin, Kazeem Akanbi, Chibuzor Nwawere and Emmanuel Idimogwu.

The NWBBA official says the players are in high spirit to do the nation proud when hostility began in South Africa later in the year.

He however, appealed to well meaning individuals and corporate organizations to emulate the gesture of First Deepwater Discovery in sponsoring the team to South Africa for the qualifiers.

Winner of the Africa championship will represent Africa at the World U23 Wheelchair Basketball Championship billed for France next year.

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


Standings
Standings
Group A
1. Argentina0-0
2. Australia0-0
3. Croatia0-0
4. Iran0-0
5. Lithuania0-0
6. Russia0-0
Group B
1. Angola0-0
2. China0-0
3. Spain0-0
4. Germany0-0
5. Greece0-0
6. USA0-0


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


UAA and San Lorenzo to play the semis - by Gianni Pascucci
In the last round of the regular season, UCA defeated Olimpia, 82-45 keeping its first place and Universidad Autonoma de Asuncion (UAA) prevailed over Sportivo San Lorenzo, 75-64, ending at the second place. UAA and San Lorenzo qualified for the Semifinal Series of the Metropolitan League - First Division. The series starts tomorrow night, and is best of three games. UAA starts with a one-point bonus thanks to the better place in the final standing. The Semifinal winner will meet Universidad Catolca in the Finals.

*****************************************************
  PBL   


Manchester Millrats grab Boston Pro Summer League title - by Eurobasket News
The Manchester Millrats celebrated victory in the final game of the Boston Summer Pro League and earned the title. The competition is held each summer at the Massachusetts College of Art. In the final game of tourney the Millrats took on Team Renegades. Mamchester prevailed in a tough battle 135:130. Dwight Brewington (6'5''-G-84, agency: AMI, college: Liberty) came up with 35 points, 11 boards and 6 assists to pace the Millrats. Eric Downie (6'6''-G/F-84, college: Salem St.) added 24 points and 14 boards, while Kevin Reed (6'3''-G-81, agency: CAA Sports, college: Maine) was helpful with 17 points. Team Renegades answered with 51 points from Amin Wright (6'2''-G-80, college: Ramapo). The Millrats finished the League with 7-1 overall record and claimed the title. Dwight Brewington was trumped the MVP of the tournament. He averaged 43.5 points per game in eight games.

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


New hope for Fil-Am Norwood in PBA draft - by Benny Lirio
Top rookie prospect Gabe Norwood had just gotten a new found hope in his bid to make the Philippine Basketball Association Annual Draft.

Commissioner Renauld “Sonny' Barrios extended the deadline for Fil-foreign players to complete all the necessary requirements
for them to be considered in the final list of candidates for the August 31 event set at Market Market Place in Taguig.

From its original July 8 deadline, Barrios gave the seven Fil-foreign aspirants until July 25 to present at least photo copies of all the
documents and papers required of them. The documents, he added, serve as prerequisites for all foreign-bred players wishing to make it to the PBA Draft.

Norwood and six other Fil-foreign players already signified their intention to join the draft by submitting their respective applications
prior to the July 8 deadline, although none among them we’re able to complete the requirements imposed by the league.

The former George Mason University stalwart and PBL Rookie of the Year while playing for Hapee still has to secure an approval
from the Department Justice regarding his Filipino citizenship.

“The papers that we are requiring them to submit serve as sort of their passport to become candidates for the annual draft,' said Barrios,
who added that no less than the PBA Board of Governors reiterated the same policy in its last meeting held July 14.

Barrios, however, said that authenticated and original copies of those documents must be turned over to the league by noon of August 29.

Certificate of Recognition from the Bureau of Immigration, DoJ affirmation, authenticated birth certificate from the National Statistics Office
(if applicant is born in the country), authenticated birth certificate of Filipino parent or other valid documents acceptable to the appropriate
agency, marriage certificate of parents, duly notarized and/or authenticated naturalization papers of Filipino parents, duly notarized affidavits
of at least three persons residing in the Philippines attesting to the claim of citizenship of applicant, and all other documents which the
PBA Commissioner may require are some of the documents the league require all Fil-foreign hopefuls.

Any of the Fil-foreign applicants who fail to complete the requirement by July 25 will be considered out of the list according to Barrios.

The complete list of Fil-foreign aspirants also includes, Kevin Delafu, Jared Dillinger (196-G/F-84, college: Air Force), Robert Baltch Reyes,
Solomon Mercado, Christopher Viardo, and Charles Waters.

SOURCE: GMANews.TV

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


Puerto Rico National Team. - by Alessandro Fontana
PUERTO RICO ON PRE-OLYMPICS

Puerto Rico could not qualify for Beijing 2008, Our Boricuas were defeated by Germany. In any case our team played a good tournament and if 'El magnifico' Carlos Arroyo (188-G-79, agency: Interperformances, college: Florida Intern.) did not have had some physical problems, Puerto Rico would have had a lot of possibilities to win the tournament or in any case to qualify for the Olympic Games.
Here below the statistics of our heroes, who played always with heart and garra and we are very proud of them

Carlos Arroyo: 13.3 ppg, 2.5 rpg, 3.8 apg. Great games for him, unfortunately He Could not play against Greece and Germany. His best game against Croatia, 20 points (5/9 3pts). Vote: 8
Larry Ayuso: 13.2 ppg, 1.4 rpg, 0.4 apg. El Jefe is always one of the leaders of the national team. Great game against Croatia (22 pts, 5/6 2pts, 3/6 3pts). He played good against Germany, he never gave up with 15 points but he had a bad shots percentage (3/9 3pts). Ayuso, the soul of Puerto Rico. Vote: 7,5
Jose Juan Barea: 12.4 ppg, 3.2 rpg, 2.2 apg. His High of points was against Germany with 18 points (but with a 1/8 3pts). He played good and he tried to solve the situation against Germnay and Greece as Arroyo could not play. Garra. Vote: 7
Ricardo Sanchez: 9.4 ppg, 4.2 rpg, 0.8 apg. Vote: 7
Peter John Ramos: 9.2 ppg, 5.6 rpg. Vote: 7
Filiberto Rivera : 7.2 ppg, 1.6 rpg, 1.8 apg. Vote: 6.5
Carmelo Lee: 5ppg, 3.6 rpg. Vote: 6.5
Daniel Santiago: 3.8 ppg, 2.4 rpg, 1apg. Vote: 5
Javier Mojica: 3ppg, 3.6 rpg, 0.2 apg. Vote: 6
Joel Jones: 2.5 ppg, 1.8 rpg, 0.3 apg. Vote: 6
Alex Falcon: 2.3 ppg, 2.3 rpg. Vote: 6
Luis Villafane: 0ppg, 2rpg. Vote: ndp
A. Fontana

*****************************************************
  RUSSIA   


Dinamo inks Bostjan Nachbar, Khimlki officially release Tucker - by Andrei Maminov
Dinamo Moscow made today a major coup after agreeing terms with Slovenian forward - Bostjan Nachbar (207-G/F-80, agency: Interperformances).
The New Jersey forward who played in the last 6 years in the NBA in the Houston Rockets, New Olreans Hornets and the Nets has agreed a 3 years contract worth 9 million Euros according to reports in Russia today.
Nachbar is a product of Olimpija Lublijana who also played at Benetton Treviso before moving to the best league in the World.
So far Dinamo signed Darjus Lavrinovic (212-C-79), Arriel McDonald (191-G-72, college: Minnesota), Hollis Price (186-G-79, college: Oklahoma) and now David Blatt is looking for a high profile shooting guard who can play at Small forward position too.
Khimki has announced that they won't continue with their American guard Clay Tucker (194-G-80, agency: Pro One Sports, college: Wisc.-Milwaukee). Tucker who signed in February from Siviglia Wear Teramo and avreged 10.0ppg, 3.1rpg, 2.0apg, 1.7spg in the Russian league. But the team didn't use the option on the player and he is already on his way to Israeli side - Maccabi Tel-Aviv.according to his agent.

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


Angolan seniors beat U20 Serbia on 'Borislav Stankovic Cup' - by Dragan Jankovski
After fantastic win against Russian B National Team, U20 Serbia is defeated in the last round of 'Borislav Stankovic Cup' against Angolan senior National Team 60-68. It means that third place on this prestigious tournament belongs to Serbian youngsters. As a reminder at the first day of the competition Serbia suffered defeat against China. Yao Ming dominated that time leading his team to win at the front of their fans. Milan Macvan (206-F/C-89) was the best player for Serbia in that game scoring 23 points. In the next round Serbian youngsters, which were led by impressive Marko Keselj (208-F-88, agency: Beo Basket), outplayed Russian B National Team 99-85. Keselj counted until 27 in this game brining the only win for Serbians in China. Yesterday Serbia had better beginning finishing fist quarter with plus 4, 15-11. Second frame was a crucial period of the game as Angola totally dominated making big turn before the half time. It was 26-36 for African team after 20 minutes. They continued at the same rhythm in the next quarter when it was clear that U20 Serbia will have to be more than satisfied with one victory on this strong tournament. Actually Serbians came on minus 6 once in the last quarter but they weren't able to do anything more.

Serbia got the most from giant Boban Marjanovic (221-C-88), who nailed 14 points. Miroslav Raduljica (213-C-88, agency: CAA Sports) and Milan Macvan was behind him scoring 11 points each. Ciprijani was a key player for Angola netting 22 points.


Serbia Angola 60-68
(15-11,11-25,13-18,21-14)

Serbia: Boban Marjanovic 14, Miroslav Raduljica 11, Milan Macvan 11
Angola: Cipriani 20, Joakin 15

Roster of Serbian U18 National Team for European Championship - by Eurobasket
#s#
#e#6


Riznic


Vlahovic


Subotic


Musli


Mitrovic
Serbian U18 National Team went to Greece today for the U18 European Championship which starts on Friday. The reason of these early trip is strong wish of NT head coach Miroslav Nikolic . Namely, Nikolic stated that in Amaliada and Pyrgos temperature is extremely high these days explaining that his players need to adapt on it. As a reminder Serbian juniors will try to defend the Gold which they won at the previous European Championship in Spain. After just one defeat at the Qualifying Round, Serbia outplayed Latvia in the semis. On the other side Greece was better than Lithuania so these two teams met each other in the final. Serbia grabbed the Gold mostly owing to wonderful performance by Milan Macvan, Stefan Stojacic and Dusan Katnic.

Roster of Serbia U18 for European Championship in Greece
Uros Petrovic (206-F/C-90) of KK Hemofarm Stada Vrsac
Bogdan Riznic (201-G/F-90) of Gimnasia Villa Del Parque (ARG)
Aleksandar Vlahovic (193-G-90) of BC Partizan Igokea Beograd
Bojan Subotic (204-F/C-90) of FMP Zeleznik Beograd
Andrija Milutinovic (199-G-90) of FMP Zeleznik Beograd
Dusan Ognjenovic (214-C-91) of FMP Zeleznik Beograd
Dejan Musli (213-C-91) of FMP Zeleznik Beograd
Svetozar Stamenkovic (202-F/C-90) of FMP Zeleznik Beograd
Aleksandar Mitrovic (201-G-90) of BC Mega Aqua Monta Beograd
Nenad Grujo (204-F-90) of BC Mega Aqua Monta Beograd
Filip Sepa (199-G/F-90) of Zemun Lasta

Serbia U18 is placed to Preliminary Group B together with Estonia, Lithuania and Italy. At the opening day of the competition Serbia will take on Lithuania while at the next day its rivals will be Estonia. The last game of the Preliminary Round will be played at July 27th when Serbian juniors will meet Italy. Two best teams from each group will continue competition in the Qualifying Round. This stage includes 12 teams divided in two groups. The best two teams from these two groups will advance directly to the semifinals. The last day of U18 European Championship is August 3rd.

*****************************************************
  SLOVENIA   


Glavas joins Polpharma - by Zeljko Zule

Nejc Glavas (190-G-86) ex Zagorje inked with Polish team Polpharma Starogard Gdanski for the upcoming season. Last season he appeared in 22 games, averaging 30,5 minutes, 14,2 points (2P 47%, 3P 36%, FT 78%), 3,2 rebounds, 4,8 assists and 1,5 steals per contest.

.



*****************************************************
  TAIWAN   


2008 Jones Cup men's group results - by Chris Wang
Final placing:
1. Jordan NT
2. Athletes in Action
3. Australia U-19 NT
4. Qatar NT
5. Egypt NT
6. Kazakhstan NT
7. Korea University Select Team
8. Taiwan NT

Final Day
Final: Jordan 93-91(OT) AIA
3/4: Australia 91-88(OT) Qatar
5/6: Egypt 98-89(OT) Kazakhstan
7/8: Korea 83-74 Taiwan

Playoffs
Semi: AIA 97-90 QAT
Semi: Jordan 75-60 Australia
5-8: Kazakhstan 66-56 Taiwan
5-8: Egypt 85-81 Korea

Final Prelim Standings
1. Athletes in Action 6-1
2. Jordan NT 5-2
3. Australia U-19 NT 4-3
4. Qatar NT 4-3
5. Egypt NT 4-3
6. Kazakhstan NT 3-4
7. Taiwan NT 1-6
8. Korea University Select Team 1-6

*****************************************************
  U.S. VIRGIN ISLANDS   


TWI, Jam Squad post wins in ABA Men's Summer League playoffs action - by David Edole

THOMAS - Robert Duck scored 19 points grabbed 13 rebounds and dished out five assists to led TWI to an 85-74 win in Game 2 of their ABA Men's Summer Basketball League playoff matchup against Jah Youths on Saturday night at BCB gym.

Kori Vialet added 18 points and 6 assists while teammate Julian Baa scored 11 as TWI was able to pull away from Jah Youths on the scoreboard in the fourth quarter. The win ties the series at 1-1 with Game 3 scheduled for Tuesday night.

Jah Youths were led by Zach Coffelt with 31 points and 6 assists. He was helped by Jamari Maduro's 14 points and 11 assists, and Jabahri Brown's 12 points and 17 rebounds.

In the second playoff game of the night, Jam Squad began their series with V.I. Finest with a 76-65 win.


Akil Lewis led Jam Squad with 18 points while adding 4 assists. Teammate Malik Hodge added 15 points and five assists, while Devon Louis and Mario Caines added 13 points each with Louis also grabbing 13 rebounds.

Fitzroy Dunrod scored 20 points and grabbed 8 rebounds for V.I. Finest. Weston Matthew was second on the team with 13 points while Cameron Phillip added 12 points, 6 rebounds and 3 assists.

Game 2 of the series is Tuesday night.



*****************************************************
  UBL   


UBL Referee Camp, Draft Announcements Soon - by Mac Claire
San Antonio, TX - The UBL will hold their first referees camp in October, the league announced. Experienced officials from high school, college, and professional minor leagues will be invited to participate and become a UBL official for the 2009 season.

The UBL will also be holding its first ever draft in October. Players wishing to play will audition in front of coaches, owners, and GM's prior to the draft.

An announcement with details will be made after the conclusion of the UBL Championship Playoffs.
Please email ublhoops@hotmail.com or call 210-566-7103 with questions.

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


Ferro-ZNTU makes a big number of transfers / Two wins for NT - by Alexander Muzyka
- Ferro-ZNTU landed ex-BC Odesa players Stanislav Balashov (209-C-79), Oleksandr Rybalko (189-G-79) and Denys Yakovlev (201-F-86) and plused them to stayed Maksym Chmil (210-C-80), Yakov Zmitrovych (197-F-84), Yuri Dudnyk (185-G-79) and Serhi Shyrobokov (185-G-81). It possible for the team to invite Arseni Kuchinsky (202-F-79), Artem Chemiakin (208-C/F-84), Heorhi Kandrusevich (197-F-78) and Americans for the pointguard and center positions.

Friendlies
July 20
Ukraine - Ukraine U-20 81:61 (23:15, 16:19, 23:9, 19:18)
U: Arabadzhi 18 + 5 rbs, Agafonov 13 + 4 rbs, Silkovskyi 10, Khyzhniak 9 + 7 rbs, Kobzystyi 8, R.Kryvych 7 + 4 rbs, Zabirchenko 5 + 4 rbs + 3 stl, Zubrytskyi 4, Kravtsov 3 + 6 rbs, I.Kryvych 2, Onufriev 2
U20: Gladyr 16 + 5 stl, Lukashov 11, Glebov 7, Kolchenko 6, Norenko 5 + 6 rbs...

July 21
Ukraine - SportsPower 80:72

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


Axiers Sucre will play for Union Sunchales in Argentina's TNA - by Francisco Vega
Barquisimeto, Venezuela.- Venezuelan power forward Axiers Sucre (198-F-78), a member of Venezuela's Senior National Team and currently playing for Marinos de Anzoategui in Liga Profesional de Baloncesto's 2008 Semifinals, reached and agreement to play for Union Sunchales in Argentina's Torneo Nacional de Ascenso (TNA), according to information provided by agent Carlos Siphuentes Brito through a phone call.

Sucre played 48 games for Marinos during the regular season, averaging 15.3 points and 9.3 rebounds per every outing with ratios of 59.2% in two-point shots, 35.9% in three-point shots and 66.5% in free throws. With the Senior NT, he played in the recent South American Championship of Puerto Montt, Chile, contributing with 3.1 points and 2.0 rebounds per match, though he was mainly used coming off the bench. Venezuela clinched the bronze medal in that tournament and gained a spot in the 2009 FIBA Americas World Qualy Tournament, to be played in Mexico.

Sucre is a 30 year-old forward, 1.98m tall. With Sunchales, he'll try to help in the team's main objective, which is to return to the first division basketball.

LPB 2008 Semifinals - Gameday 2: Marinos and Trotamundos even things up - by Francisco Vega

Barquisimeto, Venezuela.- Marinos de Anzoategui accomplished the objective of winning at least one game in the road against Cocodrilos de Caracas in Series A, while Trotamundos de Carabobo set the record straight and saved a home split in Series B of the 2008 Liga Profesional de Baloncesto Semifinals against Gaiteros del Zulia.



SERIES A
MARINOS DE ANZOATEGUI 80 - COCODRILOS DE CARACAS 79
Naciones Unidas Park - Caracas, D.C.
(Series tied 1-1)

Quarter by quarter
COC: 25-13-16-25= 79
MAR: 16-16-27-21= 80


Scorers
COC: Jack Michael Martinez (203-F/C-81) 19 points and 7 rebounds, Victor David Diaz (195-F-68) 17 points, Edgar Moreno (191-G-81) 14 points and 8 assists, Henry Paez (184-G-70) 23 points, Luis Bethelmy (200-C-86) 12 points, Kevin Freeman (201-F-78) 12 points, Juan Herrera (197-F-81) 3 points, Jesus Centeno (190-G-85) 2 points
MAR: Hector Romero (202-F-80) 24 points, Rafael Guevara (194-F-79) 13 points, Axiers Sucre (198-F-78) 12 points and 9 rebounds, Cordell Henry (178-G-80) 11 points, Curtis Withers (203-F-84) 10 points, Elvis Montero (193-G-78) 8 points, Gregory Vargas (182-G-86) 2 points


SERIES B
TROTAMUNDOS DE CARABOBO 107 - GAITEROS DEL ZULIA 92
Forum of Valencia - Valencia, Carabobo
(Series tied 1-1)

Quarter by quarter
TRO: 29-23-27-28= 107
GAI: 22-22-24-24= 92

Scorers
GAI: Hernan Salcedo (198-F-80) 30 points and 7 rebounds, Jean Carlos Espinoza (190-G/F-74) 13 points, Christopher Jeffries (199-F-80) 11 points, Ricardo Melendez (180-G-83) 11 points, Ruben Nembhard (191-G-72) 9 points, Askia Jones (196-G-71) 6 points, Jorge Leon (186-G-79) 5 points, Miguel Angel Marriaga (207-C-84) 4 points, Pedro Cubillan (187-G-82) 2 points, Luis Julio (199-F-80) 1 point
TRO: Jose Vargas (196-G/F-82) 29 points, J.R. Wallace (183-G-81) 25 points and 6 assists, Tomas Aguilera (198-F-77) 16 points and 7 rebounds, Alejandro Barrios (205-F-79) 15 points, Joe Shipp (197-F-81) 14 points, Pedro Brito (202-F/C-82) 5 points, Leonardo Cappare (186-G-80) 3 points


Alejandro Barrios and Luis Bethelmy to Mexico's Lobos UAC de Saltillo - by Francisco Vega
Barquisimeto, Venezuela.- Venezuelan players Alejandro Barrios (205-F-79) and Luis Bethelmy (200-C-86) will play for Lobos UAC de Saltillo in the upcoming season of Mexico's Liga Nacional de Baloncesto Profesional (LNBP), after reaching an agreement with that team through the work of Venezuelan agent Carlos Siphuentes Brito.

Barrios, a 29 years old small forward, averaged 9.7 points, 2.9 rebounds and 1.5 steals in 22 matches during the regular season for Trotamundos de Carabobo, a season that was shortened due to an injury that prevented him from playing with Venezuela's Senior NT in the recent South American Championship in Chile. He's fully recovered now and back into the shape that's made him one the most promising Venezuelan players in recent years.

Meanwhile, Bethelmy is a quick power forward recently awarded as Progress Player of the Year by the LPB's main board. He played 42 games for Cocodrilos de Caracas and averaged 10.9 points, 6.6 rebounds and 1.2 assists per outing.

Bethelmy and Barrios will join other Venezuelan players in Mexico who have recently been signed. They are Hernan Salcedo (198-F-80), with Angeles de Puebla for the second straight season and newcomers Tomas Aguilera (198-F-77) and Jose Vargas (196-G/F-82), who'll see action as members of Fuerza Regia de Monterrey.

LPB 2008 Semifinals - Gameday 1: Cocodrilos wins at home, Gaiteros surprises Trotamundos - by Francisco Vega

Barquisimeto, Venezuela.- Cocodrilos de Caracas started tough at home in Series A against Marinos de Anzoategui, while Gaiteros del Zulia showed they're on fire after defeating Trotamundos de Carabobo at their own Forum of Valencia to gain early advantage in Series B of the 2008 Liga Profesional de Baloncesto Semifinals.



SERIES A
COCODRILOS DE CARACAS 88 - MARINOS DE ANZOATEGUI 84
Naciones Unidas Park - Caracas, D.C.
(Cocodrilos leads 1-0)

Quarter by quarter
COC: 13-17-27-31= 88
MAR: 21-15-24-24= 84


Scorers
COC: Henry Paez (184-G-70) 23 points, Juan Herrera (197-F-81) 17 points, Jack Michael Martinez (203-F/C-81) 13 points and 13 rebounds, Edgar Moreno (191-G-81) 13 points, Luis Bethelmy (200-C-86) 9 points, Kevin Freeman (201-F-78) 8 points, Victor David Diaz (195-F-68) 5 points
MAR: Cordell Henry (178-G-80) 28 points and 7 rebounds, Oscar Torres (195-F/G-76) 23 points, Jason Edwin (196-G/F-81) 9 points, Axiers Sucre (198-F-78) 7 points and 9 rebounds, Hector Romero (202-F-80) 7 points, Curtis Withers (203-F-84) 5 points, Gregory Vargas (182-G-86) 4 points, Elvis Montero (193-G-78) 1 point

SERIES B
GAITEROS DEL ZULIA 105 - TROTAMUNDOS DE CARABOBO 103
Forum of Valencia - Valencia, Carabobo
(Gaiteros leads 1-0)

Quarter by quarter
TRO: 23-24-34-22= 103
GAI: 23-17-26-39= 105

Scorers
GAI: Christopher Jeffries (199-F-80) 25 points, Ruben Nembhard (191-G-72) 21 points, Ricardo Melendez (180-G-83) 20 points, Hernan Salcedo (198-F-80) 12 points, Jean Carlos Espinoza (190-G/F-74) 8 points, Luis Julio (199-F-80) 7 points and 7 rebounds, Askia Jones (196-G-71) 5 points, Jorge Leon (186-G-79) 5 points, Miguel Angel Marriaga (207-C-84) 2 points
TRO: Joe Shipp (197-F-81) 34 points, J.R. Wallace (183-G-81) 24 points, Jose Vargas (196-G/F-82) 18 points and 7 rebounds, Tomas Aguilera (198-F-77) 11 points, Alejandro Barrios (205-F-79) 6 points, Manuel Berroteran (185-G-80) 6 points, Facundo Sucatzky (176-G-72) 4 points


LPB Quarter Finals - Gameday 7: Trotamundos, Marinos and Cocodrilos advance to Semis - by Francisco Vega

Barquisimeto, Venezuela.- Trotamundos de Carabobo and Cocodrilos de Caracas Game 7 in each of their Quarter Finals series to gain spots in the next round of Liga Profesional de Baloncesto, while Marinos de Anzoategui got the 'lucky looser' spot and advanced despites loosing their series, due to the fact that they were the best team among those who lost in the QF.



SERIES A
TROTAMUNDOS DE CARABOBO 90 - MARINOS DE ANZOATEGUI 85
Forum of Valencia - Valencia, Carabobo
(Trotamundos won series 4-3)

Quarter by quarter
TRO: 24-17-31-19= 90
MAR: 26-14-24-21= 85


Scorers
TRO: Tomas Aguilera (198-F-77) 22 points and 11 rebounds, Facundo Sucatzky (176-G-72) 20 points and 5 assists, Jose Vargas (196-G/F-82) 15 points, J.R. Wallace (183-G-81) 14 points, Joe Shipp (197-F-81) 13 points, Pedro Brito (202-F/C-82) 4 points, Alejandro Barrios (205-F-79) 2 points
MAR: Hector Romero (202-F-80) 20 points and 10 rebounds, Curtis Withers (203-F-84) 16 points, Jason Edwin (196-G/F-81) 14 points, Elvis Montero (193-G-78) 12 points, Cordell Henry (178-G-80) 10 points, Axiers Sucre (198-F-78) 8 points, Gregory Vargas (182-G-86) 5 points



SERIES B
COCODRILOS DE CARACAS 87 - GATOS DE MONAGAS 76
Naciones Unidas Park - Caracas, D.C.
(Cocodrilos won series 4-3)

Quarter by quarter
COC: 25-22-20-20= 87
GAT: 16-24-14-22= 76


Scorers
COC: Edgar Moreno (191-G-81) 23 points, Jack Michael Martinez (203-F/C-81) 22 points and 17 rebounds, Kevin Freeman (201-F-78) 14 points, Luis Bethelmy (200-C-86) 10 points and 13 rebounds, Victor David Diaz (195-F-68) 10 points, Henry Paez (184-G-70) 8 points
GAT: Manuel Guzman (203-F-82) 17 points and 10 rebounds, Ronnie Fields (193-G-77) 16 points, Edgar Arteaga (198-F-76) 9 points, Francisco Sanabria (190-G-77) 8 points, Ruben Pachano (185-G-76) 8 points, Ernesto Mijares (190-G-76) 6 points, Roque Osorio (206-C-76) 4 points, Amber Marin (208-C-81) 4 points, Duke Freeman-McKamey (208-F-80) 2 points, Cesar Olivo (186-G-83) 2 points


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  ZIMBABWE   


Basketball press release - by Gracey Chirumanzu
FIBA PRESS RELEASE

Field and schedule for
2008 Olympic Basketball Tournament for Men finalized


GENEVA, Switzerland/ATHENS, Greece/20th July 2008 Upon completion of the FIBA Olympic Qualifying Tournament for Men in Athens, Greece, the field of the 12 participant mens national teams at the upcoming Beijing 2008 Olympic Games is now finalized.

Germany, winner of tonights Final of the FIBA Olympic Qualifying Tournament for Men, has joined Croatia and Greece (the winners of yesterdays semi-finals) as the last team clinching a final spot for the 2008 Olympic Basketball Tournament for Men.

The draw to determine the final composition of groups for the Beijing 2008 Olympic Basketball Tournament for Men has taken place in the OAKA Basketball Arena in Maroussi, Athens, just a few minutes after the Final of the FIBA Olympic Qualifying Tournament for Men. As a result of this draw, Croatia will be in Group A, while Germany and Greece will compete in Group B.

Listed below is the final composition of groups, as well as the complete event schedule for the Olympic Basketball Tournament for Men that will be played from 10th to 24th August 2008 in the brand new 18.000-seat Wukesong Indoor Stadium. Please note that all tip-off hours are local time in Beijing, China.


1. Composition of groups:

Group A: Argentina, Australia, Croatia, Iran, Lithuania and Russia

Group B: Angola, China, Germany, Greece, Spain and USA


2. Preliminary Round:


10th August 2008:

Game 7 (9:00 hours): Russia vs. Iran
Game 8 (11:15 hours): Germany vs. Angola
Game 9 (14:30 hours): Spain vs. Greece
Game 10 (16:45 hours): Lithuania vs. Argentina
Game 11 (20:00 hours): Australia vs. Croatia
Game 12 (22:15 hours): USA vs. China





12th August 2008:

Game 19 (9:00 hours): Iran vs. Lithuania
Game 20 (11:15 hours): Croatia vs. Russia
Game 21 (14:30 hours): Greece vs. Germany
Game 22 (16:45 hours): China vs. Spain
Game 23 (20:00 hours): Angola vs. USA
Game 24 (22:15 hours): Argentina vs. Australia


14th August 2008:

Game 31 (9:00 hours): Germany vs. Spain
Game 32 (11:15 hours): Australia vs. Iran
Game 33 (14:30 hours): Angola vs. China
Game 34 (16:45 hours): Lithuania vs. Russia
Game 35 (20:00 hours): USA vs. Greece
Game 36 (22:15 hours): Argentina vs. Croatia


16th August 2008:

Game 43 (9:00 hours): Greece vs. Angola
Game 44 (11:15 hours): Russia vs. Australia
Game 45 (14:30 hours): Croatia vs. Lithuania
Game 46 (16:45 hours): Iran vs. Argentina
Game 47 (20:00 hours): China vs. Germany
Game 48 (22:15 hours): Spain vs. USA


18th August 2008:

Game 55 (9:00 hours): Iran vs. Croatia
Game 56 (11:15 hours): Australia vs. Lithuania
Game 57 (14:30 hours): Greece vs. China
Game 58 (16:45 hours): Angola vs. Spain
Game 59 (20:00 hours): USA vs. Germany
Game 60 (22:15 hours): Argentina vs. Russia


3. Quarter-Finals:

The information below shows only who will be playing whom in accordance with the final standings after the Preliminary Round.


20th August 2008:

Game 65: B2 vs. A3
Game 66: A1 vs. B4
Game 67: A2 vs. B3
Game 68: B1 vs. A4

The exact game number and time for the four Quarter-Finals will be known at the latest on the evening of 18th August. The games of the Quarter-Finals will be played at 14:30, 16:45, 20:00 and 22:15 hours.


4. Semi-Finals:

22nd August 2008:

Game 71: Winner 65 vs. Winner 66
Game 72: Winner 67 vs. Winner 68

The exact game number and time for the two Semi-Finals will be known at the latest on the evening of 20th August. The games of the Semi-Finals will be played at 20:00 hours and 22:15 hours.


5. Finals:

24th August 2008:

Game 75 (12:00 hours): Loser 71 vs. Loser 72 (3 4)
Game 76 (14:30 hours): Winner 71 vs. Winner 72 (1 2)


About FIBA

FIBA (www.fiba.com), the world governing body for basketball, is an independent association formed by 213 National Federations of basketball throughout the world. It is recognised as the sole competent authority in basketball by the International Olympic Committee (IOC). Its main upcoming events are the Beijing 2008 Olympic Basketball Tournaments and the FIBA World Championships for Men and Women, held every four years. The 2010 FIBA World Championship will be played in Turkey, while the 2010 FIBA World Championship for Women will take place in the Czech Republic.

www.olympicbasketball.fiba.com




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Women News

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  BARBADOS - Women  


Centrobasket 2008: Trinidad & Tobago outsmarts Barbados for the first joy - by Eurobasket News
Barbados - Trinidad & Tobago 60-64

Trinidad & Tobago had a reason for a joy for the first time on Centrobasket Championship 2008 in Puerto Rico. After 0-3 in Group A, Trinidad & Tobago grabbed win against Barbados so they will meet Guatemala in the battle for fifth position. On the other hand, despite one victory in Group B, Barbados will have to fight for position number 7 against Costa Rica. Both teams started first quarter showing their nerves. It was the main reason for low-scoring first ten minutes of the game as both teams missed couple of wide open shots. Different picture was seen on the court in the second stanza as Trinidad & Tobago totally took control on its opponent. Mostly owing to Pietra Gay (183-F-74) and Patrice Edwards (198-C-84, college: Texas Tech), Trinidad & Tobago finished it 12-22, which meant that they had comfortable plus 13 at the half time. Situation has changed in third frame as Barbados started to play more aggressive. Their pressure at the defensive end at kept Trinidad & Tobago on just 10 points in this quarter while Barbados netted 18. So the game was open for Barbadians once again. Trinidad & Tobago succeeded to keep 4 points lead until the last couple of seconds. Barbadians had a chance to make something at the very end but Toni Atherley (173-G-83) missed a 3-pointer which could possibly bring them chance but unfortunately to them it didn't happen.

Pietra Gay paced Trinidad & Tobago to win collecting 20 points and 6 rebounds. Patrice Edwards also had wonderful performance adding 19 points and 8 rebounds while Jackson-Kenedy had 12 points. Toni Atherley was the best in Barbados with 20 points and 5 rebounds while Jamila Griffith (183-G/F-82, college: Md-Eastern Shore) registered 15 points and 10 rebounds.


Barbados - Trinidad & Tobago 60-64
(10-13,12-22,18-10,20-19)

Barbados: Toni Atherley 20 (5 rebs), Jamila Griffith 15 (10 rebs)
Trinidad & Tobago: Pietra Gay 20 (6 rebs), Patrice Edwards 19 (8 rebs), Jackson-Kenedy 12

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  COSTA RICA - Women  


Centrobasket 2008: Guatemala records second win beating Costa Rica - by Eurobasket News
Guatemala - Costa Rica 76-55

Guatemala grabs the second win on Centrobasket Championship 2008. After Trinidad & Tobago, Guatemalans were better than Costa Rica making step forward to fifth position on Centrobasket. Blanca Amado (-80) was the key player for the winners. She totally dominated at the offensive end netting 26 points. At the same time Blanca Amado grabbed 9 boards and dished out 4 assist. Beginning of the game belonged to Guatemalans as they ended first stanza having advantage of 5 points. Second period brought a little bit better performance from Costa Rica. However both teams struggled a lot with their stroke having just some more that 30% from the field. Guatemala continued at the same rhythm after the breather which resulted with plus 10 at the early beginning of the third stanza. Later, Costa Rica wasn't able even to threat as Guatemalans extended their lead even more.

Except of above mentioned Blanca Amado, the winners got 14 points and 8 rebounds from Sofia Lopez (-G-87). Maria Fleischmann (-F/C-78) also showed decent performance finishing the game with 11 points and 9 rebounds. On the other side Glendorlee Pinnock (-62) added 13 points and 5 rebounds for Costa Rica while Natalia Galvez (-85) stopped don 13 points. In the battle for position number five Guatemala will take on Trinidad & Tobago, which will be the second game of these two teams in Puerto Rico. Costa Rica will meet Barbados for position number seven.


Guatemala - Costa Rica 76-55
(17-12,15-14,20-16,24-13)

Guatemala: Blanca Amado 26 (9 rebs, 4 as), Sofia Lopez 14 (8 rebs), Maria Fleischmann 11 (9 rebs)
Costa Rica: Glendorlee Pinnock 13 (5 rebs), Natalia Galvez 13

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  CUBA - Women  


Centrobasket 2008: Cuba blasts Mexico for the final - by Eurobasket News
Cuba - Mexico 96-45

As it was expected, the top team of Group B, Cuba, had an easy job in the semifinals of Centrobasket Championship 2008. The defending champion continued total domination in Puerto Rico smashing Mexico, which was the second ranked team in Group A. Thus Cuba will play against the host of Centrobasket for the Gold. Another important thing is that with this win Cuba already qualified for the FIBA Americas Championship 2009. On the other side Mexicans will fight for the bronze medal against Dominican Republic. That game also will be extremely important as the winner will book a spot for the above mentioned event.
This game started very well for the Cubans as they had plus 7 after first 10 minutes. During the entire second stanza Cuba hold Mexico on just 5 points which resulted with 41-20 for Cuba at the half time. Defending champion didn't want to stop after the break. They kept smashing Mexico closing third frame with 32-11. Finally, after the next ten minutes they doubled score making even more 96-45.

This time Yamara Amargo (180-F-85) was the best scorer for Cuba netting 18 points. Suchitel Avila (183-F-82) followed her draining 15 points while Yakelin Plutin (186-F-79) had one point leas then her grabbing 7 more rebounds. Mexicans got the biggest help from Alejandra Delgado (180-F-83), who collected 14 points and 9 rebounds. Actually she was the only one with double digits for the loosing side. Brisa Silva (168-G-84) contributed in this game with 8 points and 4 rebounds.


Cuba - Mexico 96-45
(22-15,19-5,32-11,23-14)

Cuba: Yamara Amargo 18, Suchitel Avila 15, Yakelin Plutin 14 (7 rebs)
Mexico: Alejandra Delgado 14 (9 rebs), Brisa Silva 8 (4 rebs)

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  DOMINICAN REPUBLIC - Women  


Centrobasket 2008: Puerto Rico celebrates vs Dominican Republic advancing to the final - by Eurobasket News
Puerto Rico - Dominican Republic 79-69

Tougher than it was expected Puerto Rico succeeded to beat Dominican Republic in the semifinals of Centrobasket Championship 2008. Thus the host of this elite competition booked a spot for the final as well as for the FIBA Americas Championship 2009. In the battle for the Gold Puerto Rico will take on the defending champion Cuba. It won't be an easy job for Puerto Ricans as Cuba showed the best performance so far on Centrobasket. Dominican Republic will meet Mexico in the battle for the bronze and at the same time for the place on FIBA Americas Championship 2009.
Dominican Republic played surprisingly good first half of the game. Dominicans dominated under the basket grabbing much more rebounds that their opponent. On the other side Puerto Rico made many bad decisions at the offensive end. Mostly owing to Charlenny Frias (-85) and Anabel Perdomo, Dominicans had 2 points lead at the half time. After 15-minutes break Puerto Rico was a totally different team. Cynthia Valentin (173-G-84, agency: LBM Management, college: Indiana) and Yoliana Cabrera took care for the points and very soon Puerto Ricans made turn. They entered into the crucial ten minutes having advantage of 6 points. Dominican Republic showed attitude in the last frame trying to get some closer but tough Puerto Rico didn't let them.

Cynthia Valentin nailed 19 points for the winners while Yoliana Cabrera finished the game with 17 points and 8 rebounds. Esmary Vargas (191-C-81, agency: Next Level, college: Emporia St.) also shined registering double-double, 11 points and 10 rebounds. Charlenny Frias scored 13 points for Dominicans while Anabel Perdomo followed her with 12 points and 4 rebounds. Andreina Paniagua (-79) scored 10 points and grabbed 11 boards.


Puerto Rico - Dominican Republic 79-69
(16-19,21-20,21-13,21-17)

Puerto Rico: Cynthia Valentin 19, Yoliana Cabrera 17 (8 rebs), Esmary Vargas 11 (10 rebs)
Dominican Republic: Charlenny Frias 13, Anabel Perdomo 12 (4 rebs), Andreina Paniagua 10 (11 rebs)

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  EUROPEAN CHAMPIONSHIPS U18 - Women  


W-Standings - Group A
B Standings
 1. LTU 3-0 
 2. RUS 3-0 
 3. FRA 3-0 
 4. SRB 2-1 
 5. ESP 2-1 
 6. CZE 2-1 
 7. SVK 2-1 
 8. UKR 2-1 
 9. ITA 1-2 
 10. POL 1-2 
 11. TUR 1-2 
 12. BUL 1-2 
 13. SWE 1-2 
 14. CRO 0-3 
 15. BLR 0-3 
 16. ROM 0-3 


Division A. Preliminary round Day 3 - by Eurobasket News
Group A
Czech Republic U18 - Romania U18 105:63
Czech Republic Junior National Team prevailed against Romania in the third round of preliminary action at the European Championship today. Three players scored 14 points for Czech team as they sent Romanian side into classification round. Romania suffered their third straight loss and would fight for the right to remain in Division A now. Bianca Barbu (169-G-90) and Pavel paced Romania in front in the opening minutes of the game but Czech team quickly denied the effort. They capped the first frame with an 18:7 run that put Czech team in charge 31:17. Svrdlikova fueled an 8:0 rally from Czech Republic early in the second stanza as they stretched the margin to 21 points. Andreea Pop and Doinita Panait cut the deficit to 16 points at halftime. The momentum continued for Romania in the third period as Andreea Pop, Alina Chivu (180-F-90) and Bianca Barbu teamed up for 8 points to drag them within 8 points from Czech Republic. However Czechs answered with a 15:1 surge that secured the comfortable cushion. Romania never came closer than 20 points in the reminder of the contest and Czech Republic celebrated their second win at the tournament. Katerina Zavazalova (171-G-90), Eva Skutilova (182-F-90) and Klara Rosenbaumova (182-F-90) dropped 14 points apiece to pace Czech Republic. Dominika Behalova and Stara notched 11 points apiece in a win. Bianca Barbu had 13 points for Romania in defeat. Alina Chivu produced 8 points and 8 rebounds. Czech team outrebounded their opponents 49:38 and forced those to as many as 38 turnovers.

Czech Republic U18: Katerina Zavazalova 14, Eva Skutilova 14, Klara Rosenbaumova 14
Romania U18: Bianca Barbu 13, Alina Chivu 8


Slovakia U18 - Ukraine U18 64:80
Slovakian Junior Team suffered their first loss at home European Championship. They were unable to post the third straight loss coming up short against Ukraine. Slovak Republic opponents bounced back after a stunning loss to Czech Republic and upset the hosts. Ol'ha Maznichenko (186-F-91) knocked down 32 points and collected 11 rebounds to pace Ukraine. The visitors surprised sloppy home side with a 22:6 rally in the opening stanza. Kateryna Dorogobuzova (187-F-90) and Olesya Malashenko (188-F-91) extended the difference to 16 points at the interval. Kateryna Dorogobuzova and Ol'ha Maznichenko gave Ukraine a 21-point advantage early in the third stanza. Slovakia never recovered and trailed by as many as 25 points after three quarters of action. Slovakia opened the final term with 10 points in a row to clip the deficit to 15 points. Barbora Novocka and Veronika Cernakova (174-G-90) clawed Slovakian way within 12 points but had little time to change things at the end. Kateryna Dorogobuzova poured in 27 points and pulled down 8 boards for Ukraine. Olesya Malashenko posted a massive double-double of 21 points and 19 rebounds for the winners. Veronika Cernakova secured 18 points for Slovakia. Klaudia Lukacovicova (193-C-90) delivered 14 points and 7 boards in defeat. Ukraine enjoyed an overwhelming advantage on the glass outrebounding their opponents 53:33. The winners shot impressive 51% of field goals and won despite committing 31 turnovers.

Slovakia U18: Veronika Cernakova 18, Klaudia Lukacovicova 14
Ukraine U18: Ol'ha Maznichenko 32+11 boards, Kateryna Dorogobuzova 27, Olesya Malashenko 21+19 boards


Group B
Poland U18 - Turkey U18 81:72
Polish Junior National Team recorded their first win at the European Championship in Slovakia. They overcame Turkey in a must-win fixture to remain hopeful about their chances to advance to the qualifying round of the tournament. Olivia Tomialowicz (182-G-90) scored 22 points to pace determined Polish team. Klaudia Sosnowska (186-F-90) and Magda Kaczmarska (183-F/G-90) teamed up for 13 points in a high-flying first quarter and Poland grabbed a 27:22 lead before the second term. The teams remained close over the next period with the scoreline read 43:38 for Poland at halftime. Pacula's trey gave Polish team a 7-point advantage midway through the third stanza. Firat however cut the distance to 6 with one quarter to play. Magda Kaczmarska and Paulina Antczak extended the margin to as many as 11 points early in the fourth quarter. Klaudia Sosnowska then came up with 5 points in a row to make it 71:55 game. Turkey never recovered and came up short at the end. Klaudia Sosnowska had 17 points and 9 boards for Poland. Magda Kaczmarska added 16 points, 8 assists and 6 boards, while Paulina Antczak contributed 15 points and 10 caroms for the winners. Ozge Yavas (169-G-91) dropped 21 points for Turkey. Tugce Canitez (188-F-90) secured 16 points and 11 boards in defeat. Turkey had a slight advantage on the glass with 45 rebounds. But they committed 20 turnovers and shot just 35% of field goals.

Poland U18: Olivia Tomialowicz 22, Klaudia Sosnowska 17, Magda Kaczmarska 16
Turkey U18: Ozge Yavas 21, Tugce Canitez 16+11 boards


Lithuania U18 - Italy U18 69:55
Lithuanian Junior National Team proved strong against Italy on the final day of preliminary action at the European Championship in Slovakia. Lithuania rolled to the third straight win and finished the stage on top of Group B. They advanced to the qualifying round and would face Ukraine next. Italy meanwhile slipped to 1-2 record and wrapped up their preliminary campaign at the bottom of the Group. They will play in the classification round for the right to stay in Division A next year. Italy would take on Belarus tomorrow. Lithuania got 24 points from Egle Siksniute (196-F-91) and held off determined Italian team. Italy jumped to an early 6:4 lead but Lithuania soon regained control over the game. They went on a 10:3 rally to step in front and piled up a 19:14 advantage at the intermission. Aurime Rinkeviciute (180-F/G-90) and Siskniute opened a double-digit lead for the Baltic team in the second frame. However Alice Quarta (175-G-91) drained back-to-back triples to fuel a 9:0 run for Italy at the end of the second stanza as they trimmed the deficit to 3 points at the interval. However Italy failed to come any closer in the third stanza. Lithuania kept them at bay and entered the fourth term ahead by 10. Gabriele Gutkauskaite (174-G-90) and Aurime Rinkeviciute stretched the distance to 15 points early in the fourth quarter and Lithuania never looked back again. Aurime Rinkeviciute secured 18 points and 13 boards for Lithuania. Giedre Paugaite (192-C-90) dropped 10 points and pulled down 15 rebounds for the winners. Federica Nannucci (170-G-91) answered with 14 points for Italy. Alessandra Tava (184-F-91) had 13 points, while Alice Quarta added 11 in defeat.

Lithuania U18: Egle Siksniute 24, Aurime Rinkeviciute 18+13 boards, Giedre Paugaite 10+15 boards
Italy U18: Federica Nannucci 14, Alessandra Tava 13

Group C
Spain U18 - Bulgaria U18 97:57
Spanish Junior Team completed the task and advanced to the qualifying round of the European Championship in Slovakia. They destroyed Bulgaria today for the second straight win at the tournament. Vega Gimeno (183-F-91) shone with 15 points and 12 boards for the winners. Bulgaria also qualified for the qualifying stage despite loss. They finished the preliminary Group C with 1-2 record at the third spot. Stanislava Stankova (168-G-90) paced Bulgarian team with 22 points. The teams kept it leveled at 14 after the opening frame but Spaniards went on a decisive run in the second period. They outgunned their opponents 35:11 to take care of business. A 10:0 run late in the third period allowed Spanish team to enjoy a 33-point cushion at the beginning of the final stanza. Bulgaria managed to cut the distance to 27 points in the fourth quarter but it was just a mere spark for them as Spanish easily secured stunning victory at the end. Marta Xargay (180-G-90) had 13 points, while Leonor Rodriguez (177-G-91) and Marta Tudanca (182-F-90) produced 11 points apiece for the winners. Stefka Nikolova (170-G-90) contributed 10 points and 8 boards for Bulgaria in a loss. Spain outrebounded their opponents 37:34 and forced Bulgaria to 23 turnovers. The winners also shot solid 64% from close range and 74% from charity stripe.

Spain U18: Vega Gimeno 15+12 boards, Marta Xargay 13, Leonor Rodriguez 11, Marta Tudanca 11
Bulgaria U18: Stanislava Stankova 22, Stefka Nikolova 10


Russia U18 - Belarus U18 69:51
Russian Junior National team claimed their third straight win at the European Championship. Today they edged Belarus and completed the preliminary round on top of Group C. Once again Russian team relied on well-balanced offense and stifling defense to prevail. Belarus could not match the tempo and suffered their third defeat in a row. They will now fight to avoid relegation in the classification round. The game started pretty unexpectedly as Belarus were in full control over the opening stanza. Nadzeya Bohdan, Maryia Rashchenia and Maryia Filonchyk (187-F-92) lifted Belarus to a 10:3 lead early in the game. Veranika Valeuskaya crowned the frame with 4 points for Belarus and they grabbed a 16:4 advantage. However Russia quickly came back to life. They opened the second frame with a 15:1 run to silence their opponents. Three-pointers from Anastasiya Shilova (185-F-91) and Aleksandra Melnikova secured a 28:23 advantage for Russia at halftime. Belarus stayed in the race early after the long break as back-to-back triples from Maryia Filonchyk and five points from Padshyvalava puthem back in charge 34:32. Belarus maintained the lead and entered the fourth term up by 4 points 45:41. The fact never frightened off Russia as they limited their opponents to only 6 points in the fourth period and stormed to an impressive win at the end. Veronika Dorosheva (188-F-91) had 18 points and 15 boards to lead Russia. Anastasiya Shilova contributed 16 points and 11 boards, while Anastasia Logunova (192-C-90) delivered 15 points and 9 caroms for the winners. Aliaksandra Zubrytskaya (172-G-90) knocked down 11 points in a loss. Maryia Filonchyk had 8 points and 7 boards for Belarus.

Russia U18: Veronika Dorosheva 18+15 boards, Anastasiya Shilova 16+11 boards, Anastasia Logunova 15
Belarus U18: Aliaksandra Zubrytskaya 11, Maryia Filonchyk 8


Group D
France U18 - Croatia U18 71:35
French Junior National Team secured their third straight win at the European Championship. They swept Croatia to win the preliminary Pool D and advanced to the qualifying round. Croatia in the meantime suffered their third consecutive loss and remained at the bottom of the ladder. They will try to secure Division A spot in the classification round games. France had little problems en route to another stunning victory. They led right from the start and built a 22:11 advantage at the first intermission. Les Blues stretched the margin to 15 points at halftime. Croatia struggled offensively and managed only 2 points in the third frame. France entered the fourth period with 26 points before the fourth term and never looked back in the fourth quarter. Diandra Tchatchouang (187-F/C-91) nailed 17 points and pulled down 8 boards to lead France. Allison Vernerey (191-C-91) secured 12 points and 10 rebounds for the winners. Mia Carapina (190-F-90) answered with 15 points and 7 rebounds for Croatia. Tea Buzov (172-G-90) and Tomica Bacic (182-F-90) had 7 points apiece in a loss. France outrebounded Croatia 59:41 and held them to miserable 22% of field goals.

France U18: Diandra Tchatchouang 17, Allison Vernerey 12+10 board, Medelome Medenou (188-F-90) 8, Pauline Thizy (190-C-90) 8
Croatia U18: Mia Carapina 15, Tea Buzov 7, Tomica Bacic 7


Serbia U18 - Sweden U18 60:44
Serbian U18 National Team pip Sweden today for the second win at the European Championship in Slovakia. Four players scored in double figures for Serbian team as they improved to 2-1 record and occupied the second spot at the preliminary Group D. Serbia advanced to the qualifying round as well as Sweden who slipped to 1-2 record at the third place in the Pool. The teams exchanged baskets early in the game before Julia Tornberg and Cleopatra Forsman (180-G-91) put Sweden in charge 13:7. Julia Tornberg and Sara Krnjic (193-C-91) traded baskets and Swedish team led 15:8 after ten minutes of action. Stefanie Yderstrom (172-G-90) opened the second frame with a three-pointer and stretched the lead to 10 points. However Nevena Jovanovic (179-G-90) and Dusanic teamed up for 13 straight points as Serbia jumped in front 23:18 midway through the period. Sara Krnjic capped the first half with a jumper to establish a 27:20 advantage for Serbia at the interval. Serbian team widened the damage soon after the start of the third period. Sanja Orozovic (184-G-90) nailed 7 points in the quarter and Sweden enjoyed a 47:30 advantage heading into the final stanza. Sweden had little chance in the fourth term to revive intrigue and Serbia cruised to the win at the end. Sara Krnjic, Nevena Jovanovic and Sanja Orozovic scored 11 points apiece to pace Serbia. Tina Jovanovic had 10 points and 10 rebounds in a winning case. Cleopatra Forsman and Stefanie Yderstrom answered with 14 points apiece for Sweden. Julia Tornberg provided 11 points in a losing effort.

Serbia U18: Sara Krnjic 11, Nevena Jovanovic 11, Sanja Orozovic 11
Sweden U18: Cleopatra Forsman 14, Stefanie Yderstrom 14

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  EUROPEAN CHAMPIONSHIPS U20 - Women  


Stats Leaders (Women)
EC U20 Stats Leaders
Points Per Game
1 Aleksic MNT 21.9
2 Petronyte LTU 20.8
3 Leemans BEL 18.0
4 Niedola LAT 17.8
5 Jovanovic MNT 17.8
Rebounds Per Game
1 Niedola LAT 14.3
2 Petronyte LTU 11.5
3 Prystupa UKR 10.0
4 Amant FRA 9.9
5 Caglar TUR 9.4
Assists Per Game
1 Lysyuk UKR 3.3
2 Aleksic MNT 3.0
3 Ciappina BEL 3.0
4 Ocete ESP 2.5
5 YAvuz TUR 2.4
Steals Per Game
1. Likhtarovich BLR 3.0
2. Tsikhamirava BRL 2.6
3. Niedola LAT 2.5
Blocks Per Game
1. Petronyte LTU 1.3
2. Amant FRA 1.1
3. Consolini ITA 1.1
2FGP
1. Kozun BLR 52.3
2. Jovanovic SRB 52.2
3. Niedola LAT 50.5
3FGP
1. Butsyanava BLR 53.3
2. Zampieri ITA 50.0
3. Rosseel BEL 50.0
Free Throws
1. Petrovic SRB 93.3
2. Kozun BLR 93.3
3. Todorova BUL 92.0


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  GERMANY - Women  


Two players transfer from Muenchen to Wasserburg - by Moritz Korff
TSV Wasserburg, the reigning German champion, added two players to its 2008-09 roster. Magdalena von Geyr (180-F-84) and Verena Stuermlinger (180-F-81) of local rival Muenchen Basket have made agreements with TSV. For Stuermlinger it's a return to her roots as she is a Wasserburg native and moved to Muenchen in 2003. During 2007-08 Stuermlinger averaged 5.9 points and 3.1 rebounds in 21 DBBL-games for Muenchen. Von Geyr is currently on the road with the German National Team and played her first game for Germany on Saturday against France. The 24-year-old Forward was the only German player on the Muenchen team to finish the season with double figures in scoring. She appeared in 16 games of the DBBL and tallied 10.4 points per contest. Additionally she grabbed 3.6 boards a game.

German Women's National Team: Second game, second loss - by Moritz Korff
The German Women's National Team lost its second exhibition game against France within two days on Sunday. The final score was 51:70. However, head coach Imre Szittya had seen some improvements compared to game one the day before. Katja Bavendam (203-C-85, college: St.Francis,NY) sat out, while Natalie Gohrke (180-F-83) suffered a hand-injury during the game. Once again Anne Breitreiner (183-G/F-84) carried the Germans and chipped in 15 points, but got some more help from her teammates in terms of scoring this time.
France and Germany will return to action today and play the final encounter of this 3 game-exhibition series.

Germany: Breitreiner (15 pts), Danckert (7), Glaeser (6), Mueller (6), Austmann (4), Janzon (4), Richter (3), Koop (2), Loewe (2), Mersch (2), Gohrke (0), von Geyr (0), Bavendam (DNP)

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  GUATEMALA - Women  


Centrobasket 2008: Guatemala records second win beating Costa Rica - by Eurobasket News
Guatemala - Costa Rica 76-55

Guatemala grabs the second win on Centrobasket Championship 2008. After Trinidad & Tobago, Guatemalans were better than Costa Rica making step forward to fifth position on Centrobasket. Blanca Amado (-80) was the key player for the winners. She totally dominated at the offensive end netting 26 points. At the same time Blanca Amado grabbed 9 boards and dished out 4 assist. Beginning of the game belonged to Guatemalans as they ended first stanza having advantage of 5 points. Second period brought a little bit better performance from Costa Rica. However both teams struggled a lot with their stroke having just some more that 30% from the field. Guatemala continued at the same rhythm after the breather which resulted with plus 10 at the early beginning of the third stanza. Later, Costa Rica wasn't able even to threat as Guatemalans extended their lead even more.

Except of above mentioned Blanca Amado, the winners got 14 points and 8 rebounds from Sofia Lopez (-G-87). Maria Fleischmann (-F/C-78) also showed decent performance finishing the game with 11 points and 9 rebounds. On the other side Glendorlee Pinnock (-62) added 13 points and 5 rebounds for Costa Rica while Natalia Galvez (-85) stopped don 13 points. In the battle for position number five Guatemala will take on Trinidad & Tobago, which will be the second game of these two teams in Puerto Rico. Costa Rica will meet Barbados for position number seven.


Guatemala - Costa Rica 76-55
(17-12,15-14,20-16,24-13)

Guatemala: Blanca Amado 26 (9 rebs, 4 as), Sofia Lopez 14 (8 rebs), Maria Fleischmann 11 (9 rebs)
Costa Rica: Glendorlee Pinnock 13 (5 rebs), Natalia Galvez 13

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  ISRAEL - Women  


Israeli U20 National Team 2008 - by Netanel Dahan
#s#
#e#6


Shalom


Ahronov


Levy


Golan


Schor

4 Nofar Shalom (177-F-88) of Bnot Ra'Anana Hasharon
5 Rebecca Rachel Ross (-89) of Jerusalem
6 Mor Saida (174-G-89) of Elitzur Maclaren Holon
7 Yael Ahronov (163-G-88) of Bnot Ra'Anana Hasharon
8 Hadas Levy (165-G-88) of Maccabi Ra'Anana
9 Yahav Jakubowicz (185-C-88) of Ramat Hasharon
10 Adi Rachel Lux (174-G-88) of Elitzur Maclaren Holon
11 Lin Golan (172-G-89) of Elitzur Maclaren Holon
12 Dana Yahalomi (180-F-89) of Maccabi Ramat Hen
13 Rony Ben Nun (172-G-89) of A.S. Ramat Hasharon Electra
14 Shani Levy (178-F-89) of A.S. Ramat Hasharon Electra

15 Noa Schor (181-F-88) of Maccabi Ashdod

Head Coach:Dahlia Bushinsky



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  ITALY - Women  


Lithuania wins three in a row in Slovakia - by Eurobasket News
Lithuania U18 - Italy U18 69:55

Lithuanian Junior National Team proved strong against Italy on the final day of preliminary action at the European Championship in Slovakia. Lithuania rolled to the third straight win and finished the stage on top of Group B. They advanced to the qualifying round and would face Ukraine next. Italy meanwhile slipped to 1-2 record and wrapped up their preliminary campaign at the bottom of the Group. They will play in the classification round for the right to stay in Division A next year. Italy would take on Belarus tomorrow. Lithuania got 24 points from Egle Siksniute (196-F-91) and held off determined Italian team. Italy jumped to an early 6:4 lead but Lithuania soon regained control over the game. They went on a 10:3 rally to step in front and piled up a 19:14 advantage at the intermission. Aurime Rinkeviciute (180-F/G-90) and Siskniute opened a double-digit lead for the Baltic team in the second frame. However Alice Quarta (175-G-91) drained back-to-back triples to fuel a 9:0 run for Italy at the end of the second stanza as they trimmed the deficit to 3 points at the interval. However Italy failed to come any closer in the third stanza. Lithuania kept them at bay and entered the fourth term ahead by 10. Gabriele Gutkauskaite (174-G-90) and Aurime Rinkeviciute stretched the distance to 15 points early in the fourth quarter and Lithuania never looked back again. Aurime Rinkeviciute secured 18 points and 13 boards for Lithuania. Giedre Paugaite (192-C-90) dropped 10 points and pulled down 15 rebounds for the winners. Federica Nannucci (170-G-91) answered with 14 points for Italy. Alessandra Tava (184-F-91) had 13 points, while Alice Quarta added 11 in defeat.

Lithuania U18: Egle Siksniute 24, Aurime Rinkeviciute 18+13 boards, Giedre Paugaite 10+15 boards
Italy U18: Federica Nannucci 14, Alessandra Tava 13

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  LITHUANIA - Women  


Lithuania wins three in a row in Slovakia - by Eurobasket News
Lithuania U18 - Italy U18 69:55

Lithuanian Junior National Team proved strong against Italy on the final day of preliminary action at the European Championship in Slovakia. Lithuania rolled to the third straight win and finished the stage on top of Group B. They advanced to the qualifying round and would face Ukraine next. Italy meanwhile slipped to 1-2 record and wrapped up their preliminary campaign at the bottom of the Group. They will play in the classification round for the right to stay in Division A next year. Italy would take on Belarus tomorrow. Lithuania got 24 points from Egle Siksniute (196-F-91) and held off determined Italian team. Italy jumped to an early 6:4 lead but Lithuania soon regained control over the game. They went on a 10:3 rally to step in front and piled up a 19:14 advantage at the intermission. Aurime Rinkeviciute (180-F/G-90) and Siskniute opened a double-digit lead for the Baltic team in the second frame. However Alice Quarta (175-G-91) drained back-to-back triples to fuel a 9:0 run for Italy at the end of the second stanza as they trimmed the deficit to 3 points at the interval. However Italy failed to come any closer in the third stanza. Lithuania kept them at bay and entered the fourth term ahead by 10. Gabriele Gutkauskaite (174-G-90) and Aurime Rinkeviciute stretched the distance to 15 points early in the fourth quarter and Lithuania never looked back again. Aurime Rinkeviciute secured 18 points and 13 boards for Lithuania. Giedre Paugaite (192-C-90) dropped 10 points and pulled down 15 rebounds for the winners. Federica Nannucci (170-G-91) answered with 14 points for Italy. Alessandra Tava (184-F-91) had 13 points, while Alice Quarta added 11 in defeat.

Lithuania U18: Egle Siksniute 24, Aurime Rinkeviciute 18+13 boards, Giedre Paugaite 10+15 boards
Italy U18: Federica Nannucci 14, Alessandra Tava 13

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  MEXICO - Women  


Centrobasket 2008: Cuba blasts Mexico for the final - by Eurobasket News
Cuba - Mexico 96-45

As it was expected, the top team of Group B, Cuba, had an easy job in the semifinals of Centrobasket Championship 2008. The defending champion continued total domination in Puerto Rico smashing Mexico, which was the second ranked team in Group A. Thus Cuba will play against the host of Centrobasket for the Gold. Another important thing is that with this win Cuba already qualified for the FIBA Americas Championship 2009. On the other side Mexicans will fight for the bronze medal against Dominican Republic. That game also will be extremely important as the winner will book a spot for the above mentioned event.
This game started very well for the Cubans as they had plus 7 after first 10 minutes. During the entire second stanza Cuba hold Mexico on just 5 points which resulted with 41-20 for Cuba at the half time. Defending champion didn't want to stop after the break. They kept smashing Mexico closing third frame with 32-11. Finally, after the next ten minutes they doubled score making even more 96-45.

This time Yamara Amargo (180-F-85) was the best scorer for Cuba netting 18 points. Suchitel Avila (183-F-82) followed her draining 15 points while Yakelin Plutin (186-F-79) had one point leas then her grabbing 7 more rebounds. Mexicans got the biggest help from Alejandra Delgado (180-F-83), who collected 14 points and 9 rebounds. Actually she was the only one with double digits for the loosing side. Brisa Silva (168-G-84) contributed in this game with 8 points and 4 rebounds.


Cuba - Mexico 96-45
(22-15,19-5,32-11,23-14)

Cuba: Yamara Amargo 18, Suchitel Avila 15, Yakelin Plutin 14 (7 rebs)
Mexico: Alejandra Delgado 14 (9 rebs), Brisa Silva 8 (4 rebs)

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  PUERTO RICO - Women  


Centrobasket 2008: Puerto Rico celebrates vs Dominican Republic advancing to the final - by Eurobasket News
Puerto Rico - Dominican Republic 79-69

Tougher than it was expected Puerto Rico succeeded to beat Dominican Republic in the semifinals of Centrobasket Championship 2008. Thus the host of this elite competition booked a spot for the final as well as for the FIBA Americas Championship 2009. In the battle for the Gold Puerto Rico will take on the defending champion Cuba. It won't be an easy job for Puerto Ricans as Cuba showed the best performance so far on Centrobasket. Dominican Republic will meet Mexico in the battle for the bronze and at the same time for the place on FIBA Americas Championship 2009.
Dominican Republic played surprisingly good first half of the game. Dominicans dominated under the basket grabbing much more rebounds that their opponent. On the other side Puerto Rico made many bad decisions at the offensive end. Mostly owing to Charlenny Frias (-85) and Anabel Perdomo, Dominicans had 2 points lead at the half time. After 15-minutes break Puerto Rico was a totally different team. Cynthia Valentin (173-G-84, agency: LBM Management, college: Indiana) and Yoliana Cabrera took care for the points and very soon Puerto Ricans made turn. They entered into the crucial ten minutes having advantage of 6 points. Dominican Republic showed attitude in the last frame trying to get some closer but tough Puerto Rico didn't let them.

Cynthia Valentin nailed 19 points for the winners while Yoliana Cabrera finished the game with 17 points and 8 rebounds. Esmary Vargas (191-C-81, agency: Next Level, college: Emporia St.) also shined registering double-double, 11 points and 10 rebounds. Charlenny Frias scored 13 points for Dominicans while Anabel Perdomo followed her with 12 points and 4 rebounds. Andreina Paniagua (-79) scored 10 points and grabbed 11 boards.


Puerto Rico - Dominican Republic 79-69
(16-19,21-20,21-13,21-17)

Puerto Rico: Cynthia Valentin 19, Yoliana Cabrera 17 (8 rebs), Esmary Vargas 11 (10 rebs)
Dominican Republic: Charlenny Frias 13, Anabel Perdomo 12 (4 rebs), Andreina Paniagua 10 (11 rebs)

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  TAIWAN - Women  


Women Jones Cup Day 2: Taiwan beat Malaysia - by Chris Wang
Taiwan 95-42 Malaysia

Taiwan NT had no problem against Malaysia, beating the visitor 95-42 for its second straight win in the Jones Cup.

Taiwan opened the game in the first quarter 21-2 and closed the game with a 29-6 4th quarter. Chaing Feng-chun had 18 points while Wu Min-fang had 17 points including five three-pointers.

Ang Siew-teng led Malaysia with 10 points.

Taiwan NT has won the last seven matchups with Malaysia. In the Asian Championship in Incheon, Korea last year, Taiwan defeated Malaysia 107-54.

Taiwan assistant coach Wang Ling credited Malaysia for its improvement, saying that some of the threes Malaysia had taken in the game were actually 'four-pointers.' Malaysia is obviously trying to overcome its lack of height with better perimeter game, she said.

Australia 76-72 Woori Bank (44-32)

Australia U-19 NT players needed to learn a basic fact: Koreans -- men or women -- can shoot. And they were lucky to know that without losing.

203cm center Elizabeth Cambage scored eight points in the first four minutes of the game as Australia dominated with its height advantage and led 44-32 at halftime.

Koreans made a furious rally in the fourth. Kim Eun-hye made five three-pointers in the first six minutes of the final period to help Woori Bank cut the deficit down to four points with 2:30 to go. Unfortunately, that was as close as they could get.

Kim scored 19 of her game-high 27 points in the fourth quarter but that wasn't enough to stop Woori Bank from dropping its second straight game.

Cambage had 24 points for Australia, which will meet Taiwan for preliminary top seed tomorrow.

Standings:
1. Australia 2-0
1. Taiwan 2-0
3. Woori Bank 0-2
3. Malaysia 0-2

Women Jones Cup Day 1: Taiwan, Australia cruise - by Chris Wang

Taiwan 85-60 Woori Bank (35-29)

Chiang Feng-chun scored 16 of her game-high 24 points in the third quarter as Taiwan NT shook off Koreas Woori Bank in the second half en route to an 85-60 opening win. Chiang, a 27-year-old 184cm forward, also had 9 boards and 7 assists.


Donning their intriguing pink jerseys, Woori Bank led 13-10 in the end of the first quarter. But it didnt take long for the home team to turn the tide. Taiwan took the lead 26-22 after Wu Min-fangs consecutive threes and never trailed.


Taiwan controlled the boards by a 54-27 margin.


Woori Bank entered the tournament without some of its core players, who are playing for Beijing-bound Korea NT. Veteran Hong Hyun-hee paced the team with 16 points.


Australia U-19 NT 81-62 Malaysia NT


Australia U-19 NT towered over Malaysians with its height advantage for an easy win, leading in the rebounding department 58-26.


Australian head coach Dean Kinsman said that he was happy to know that Australia mens U-19 team played well last week here, finishing for third in the mens group, and hoped his team do well too.


Five players on Malaysia NT did not come to Taiwan with the team, said Malaysia head coach Yoong Sze-yuin, who is acutally an assistant coach. The head coach stayed in Malaysia because of an election of the Malaysian Basketball Federation, she said.


Standings:
1. Australia U-19 NT 1-0
1. Taiwan NT 1-0
3. Malaysia NT 0-1
3. Woori Bank 0-1



About Jones Cup women's group - by Chris Wang
Words for fans, readers and players parents and friends:

-- As what it was for the mens competition, I will try to cover the womens group, record and maybe upload the game videos, but theres no guarantee because Im busy preparing for going to Beijing.

-- The video will be uploaded to this Veoh.com channel.

-- You can download the game stats from the official web site here or the file-sharing web site I use here. Organizers will place them for download after the games. Make sure you check back often.

-- Live webcast, online stats and boxscores will not be available.

-- I know, the official web site and the English coverage sucks. But I guess thats why I'm here..

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  TRINIDAD AND TOBAGO - Women  


Centrobasket 2008: Trinidad & Tobago outsmarts Barbados for the first joy - by Eurobasket News
Barbados - Trinidad & Tobago 60-64

Trinidad & Tobago had a reason for a joy for the first time on Centrobasket Championship 2008 in Puerto Rico. After 0-3 in Group A, Trinidad & Tobago grabbed win against Barbados so they will meet Guatemala in the battle for fifth position. On the other hand, despite one victory in Group B, Barbados will have to fight for position number 7 against Costa Rica. Both teams started first quarter showing their nerves. It was the main reason for low-scoring first ten minutes of the game as both teams missed couple of wide open shots. Different picture was seen on the court in the second stanza as Trinidad & Tobago totally took control on its opponent. Mostly owing to Pietra Gay (183-F-74) and Patrice Edwards (198-C-84, college: Texas Tech), Trinidad & Tobago finished it 12-22, which meant that they had comfortable plus 13 at the half time. Situation has changed in third frame as Barbados started to play more aggressive. Their pressure at the defensive end at kept Trinidad & Tobago on just 10 points in this quarter while Barbados netted 18. So the game was open for Barbadians once again. Trinidad & Tobago succeeded to keep 4 points lead until the last couple of seconds. Barbadians had a chance to make something at the very end but Toni Atherley (173-G-83) missed a 3-pointer which could possibly bring them chance but unfortunately to them it didn't happen.

Pietra Gay paced Trinidad & Tobago to win collecting 20 points and 6 rebounds. Patrice Edwards also had wonderful performance adding 19 points and 8 rebounds while Jackson-Kenedy had 12 points. Toni Atherley was the best in Barbados with 20 points and 5 rebounds while Jamila Griffith (183-G/F-82, college: Md-Eastern Shore) registered 15 points and 10 rebounds.


Barbados - Trinidad & Tobago 60-64
(10-13,12-22,18-10,20-19)

Barbados: Toni Atherley 20 (5 rebs), Jamila Griffith 15 (10 rebs)
Trinidad & Tobago: Pietra Gay 20 (6 rebs), Patrice Edwards 19 (8 rebs), Jackson-Kenedy 12