EUROBASKET NEWS REPORT - 7/27/2008

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Men News

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  ARGENTINA   


Lithuania rules against Argentina in Spain - by Eurobasket News
Lithuania - Argentina 94:75

Lithuanian National Team bounced back after a blow by Spain to post the first win at the International Ourense Tournament. Yesterday Ramunas Butautas guys wore down stars-packed Argentina. Lithuania overwhelmed their opponents in the opening stanza. They tallied impressive 33 points to build a 19-point cushion heading into the second stanza. Argentina still struggled to find the necessary offensive rhythm and scored just 12 points in the second frame. Lithuania capitalized and piled up a 56:26 advantage at halftime. Argentina come back to life in the second half. The shots started to drop and the tempo raised a bit as the Latin American team took over. Luis Scola (206-F/C-80) tried to revive the intrigue in this one but the deficit was too big to overcome. Argentinean team fought back 4 points in the third frame and played aggressively in the fourth. However the Baltic powerhouse never allowed Argentina to come within striking distance and celebrated a well-deserved win at the end. Rimantas Kaukenas (193-G-77, college: Seton Hall) paced the winners with 15 points. Marius Prekevicius (196-F-84, agency: Interperformances, college: S.Florida) and Simas Jasaitis (202-F/G-82) had 14 points apiece, while Lavrinovic added 12 for Lithuania. Luis Scola knocked down 12 points for Argentina. Carlos Delfino (199-G-82) topscored with 16 points in defeat. Argentina will take on Spain today.

Lithuania: Rimantas Kaukenas 15, Marius Prekevicius 14, Simas Jasaitis 14
Argentina: Carlos Delfino 16, Paolo Quinteros (185-G-79) 13, Luis Scola 12

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  BELARUS   


U18 EC, division B: Tough win for Romanians against Belarus - by Eurobasket News
U18 Belarus - U18 Romania 62-69

It was a joyful first day of the U18 European Championship division B for Romanians. They struggled 30 minutes against Belarus resolving question about the winner in furious last quarter. Belarus headed into the crucial 10 minutes having 58-49 but then Rolland Torok (198-C-90) and Stretea finally woke up. It seemed that Romania is totally deferent team than it was during the first 30 minutes. They came into the last quarter with attitude intensifying defense on a highest level. Everything resulted with 13-0 run for 5:40 in the last period. After this one, Rolland Torok and Stretea took care for another 7-2 run celebrating first win on the championship. Romania dominated under the basket grabbing 31 boards matched with 20 by Belarus. Interesting is that both teams played very concentrated during the entire time so they committed just 10 turnovers together. The main problem for Belarus in the last stanza was many missed wide open shots and patience at the offensive end.

Rolland Torok paced Romania to win collecting 15 points and 9 rebounds. Stretea also demonstrated pretty good performance netting 14 points. Aliaksandr Hrumiantsau (-91) and Valiantsin Ihnatchyk (-91) scored 12 points each for Belarus while Viktar Ausepian (-91) had 10 points and 5 rebounds. In third round of competition in Preliminary Group C Belarus will playa against Poland. On the other side Romania will have a day-off.


U18 Belarus - U18 Romania 62-69
(19-15,21-15,18-19,4-20)

Belarus: Aliaksandr Hrumiantsau 12, Valiantsin Ihnatchyk 12, Viktar Ausepian 10 (5 rebs)
Romania: Rolland Torok 15 (9 rebs), Stretea 14

U18 EC, division B: Poland smashes Belarus for top of group C - by Eurobasket News
U18 Poland - U18 Belarus 96-50

Poland demonstrated its power against Belarus today remaining undefeated on U18 European Championship division B in Debrecin. On the other side Belarus is currently the only team in Preliminary Group C which has 2 defeats. Polish players totally outrebounded their opponent today registering 42 rebounds matched with only 25 by Belarus. At the same time Poland also had nice shot percentage from the field making 26 of 41 attempts.

Poland was a way better team from the early beginning. They made quick 9-2 led after what they extended it to 19-11. After three minutes of the second quarter Jaroslaw Mokros (196-F-90), Sebastian Szymanski (182-G-91) and Piotr Pamula (190-G-90) brought 18 points lead to their team. Level of the quality between these two teams was obvious. Belarus made many mistake in offense while its defense didn't look any better. Everything resulted with more than comfortable win of Poland in the second day of the competition.

Jaroslaw Mokros and Piotr Pamula were best scorers for the winning team netting 17 points each. Sebastian Szymanski, who shined at the opening day of U18 European Championship division B, counted until 14. Belarus got 16 points from Valiantsin Ihnatchyk (-91) while Uladzimir Krysevich (205-C-91) added 11 points. Poland will try to continue its winning streak tomorrow against Romania. Belarus will meet Portugal hoping to grab first win in Hungary.


U18 Poland - U18 Belarus 96-50
(26-16, 22-15, 24-8, 24-11)

Poland: Jaroslaw Mokros 17 (8 rebs), Piotr Pamula 17 (4 as), Sebastian Szymanski 14
Belarus: Valiantsin Ihnatchyk 16, Uladzimir Krysevich 11

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  BELGIUM   


Belgian U18 National Team 2008 - by Eurobasket
#s#
#e#6


Libert


Serron


Giancaterino


Hounhanou


Creppy
4 Alexandre Libert (186-G-90) of Dexia Mons-Hainaut
5 Terry Deroover (178-G-91)
6 Valery Fourneaux (194-F-90)
7 Quentin Serron (190-G-90)
8 Dennis Donkor (192-G/F-91) of Antwerp Diamond Giants
9 Lorenzo Giancaterino (190-F-90) of Dexia Mons-Hainaut
10 Maarten Rademakers (201-C/F-91)
11 Senna Hounhanou (194-G/F-90) of TEC Spirou Charleroi
12 Yannick Moray (198-F-91) of VOO Verviers-Pepinster
13 Thomas Creppy (190-F-90)
14 Thomas De Thaey (197-F-91)
15 Gael Hulsen (192-F-90) of VOO Verviers-Pepinster
Head Coach: Frederic Wilmot
Coach Assistants: Wim Meiresonne

Spain U18 gets the initial victory - by Eurobasket News
Spain U18-Belgium U18 88:69

Spain U18 got the first win in Group A of European Championship today. With four wins in four quarters the team beat Belgium U18 88:69 and sent them to 0-2. Ivan Martinez (193-F-90) led the winners with 13 points. Toni Jaume (201-C-90) and Ignacio Llovet (202-C-91) followed him with 11 apiece. Lorenzo Giancaterino (190-F-90) top-scored for Belgium with 16 points and Yannick Moray (198-F-91) netted 14.
Belgium opened the game well leading 12:6 midway through the first quarter. Perez brought Spain the lead at 17:16 and then they had 24:19 after one period. Belgium started another quarter better again but Ignacio Llovet tied the score at 25 for both squads. Santana's three closed the first half at 45:36 for the Spanish team. Spain used the three-ball to pull away from Belgium and led 61:43 before going into the fourth quarter ahead 65:47. Trailing 70:51 Belgium however produced 9-0 run to cut to 70:60. That was all they could do with more than 5 minutes in the game. Spain pushed the tempo and increased the score on the board. Last four points in the game belonged to them as Gonzalez made a lay-up and a jump shot.

Spain U18:Ivan Martinez 13, Toni Jaume 11, Ignacio Llovet 11
Belgium U18:Lorenzo Giancaterino 16, Yannick Moray 14

Leuven Transfer News - by Peter Buyse


Spotter Leuven has added Nigerian center Sani Ibrahim (207-C-82, college: Gulf Coast CC) to its roster.

Spent the 2001-2002 season at the prestigous Oak Hill Academy. Went to a Junior college after leaving Oak Hill (Southern Idaho).

An early entry candidate for the 2004 NBA Draft. Originally a candidate for the 2003 NBA Draft, but withdrew his name from consideration and returned to college to play for Gulf Coast Community college another junior college.

Came to Europe for the 2004-2005 season when he played in Italy and Croatia before heading to Belgium to play for Verviers-Pepinster.

Spent the 2006-2007 season in Poland playing for Unia Tarnow and Znicz Jaroslaw. In 37 games he has averages of 12.5 ppg and 9.7 rpg.

Stayed in Poland for the 2007-2008 season this tilme also playing for 2 teams. In 13 games for Koszalin he averaged 6.8 ppg and 4.0 rpg.

Improved his stats to 9.7 ppg and 6.4 rpg for his 14 games with Basket Kwidzyn.



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  BELIZE   


NBA star Kenyon Martin Vists Belize!!!! - by David Magana
Yesturday's afternoon NBA star Kenyon Martin (203-F/C-77, college: Cincinnati) of the Denver Nuggets and his girlfriend Trina, the famous rap artist, arrived at the Phillip Goldson International Airport at the invitation of Youth for the Future for a double event today Saturday. At ten, Martin and Trina will be at the Belize City Center for a youth rally and in the afternoon the couple will be at a Semi Pro game between the Belize Bank Bulldogs and the San Pedro Tiger Sharks in San Pedro Ambergris caye.

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  BOSNIA   


U18 EC, division B: Switzerland outplays Bosnia for 2-0 - by Eurobasket News
U18 Bosnia and Herzegovina - U18 Switzerland 69-75

After victory in the first round against Ireland, Switzerland took care for another one. This time Switzerland was a way better than Bosnia and Herzegovina improving score to 2-0 in Preliminary Group B. On the other side Bosnians are still winless on U18 European Championship division B after two days.

Bosnia showed better performance just during the first couple of minutes. After 9-5, Switzerland made fantastic 19-2 run and thanks to Brian Savoy grabbed 13 points lead with three minutes remaining in the first frame. It was basket after basket game since that moment. Switzerland kept bigger lead without any problems until the 28th minute when Bosnians made mini 5-1 run entering into the second half with minus 6. After the breather, Brian Savoy and Ian Savoy (187-G-90) stepped up and with couple of successful jump shots as well as lay-ups resolved question about the winner setting the score on 35-50. Until the end of the game Swiss players confidently kept lead despite Bosnians played a bit better in the last stanza. Interesting is that Bosnians had just 5.6% for 3-pts making only 1 of 18 attempts.

Brian Savoy paced Swiss to win today with 20 points and 4 rebounds. Ian Savoy followed him with 16 points while Stefan Petkovic had 14 points. Miralem Halilovic (202-F-91), who added 13 points and 11 rebounds, was the best in Bosnia. The losing side also got 11 points separately from Gak and Eldin Camdzic (195-G-90). Next Switzerland's rival on U18 European Championship is Slovenia while Bosnians will take on Ireland.


U18 Bosnia and Herzegovina - U18 Switzerland 69-75
(18-28,11-7,20-26,20-14)

Bosnia: Miralem Halilovic 13 (11 rebs), Gak 11, Eldin Camdzic 11
Switzerland: Brian Savoy 20 (4 rebs), Ian Savoy 16, Stefan Petkovic 14

Bavcic leaves Bosna and signs for Kepez - by Nedzad Kladusak
Edin Bavcic (210-F/C-84, agency: Beo Basket) the captain of KK Bosna ASABHT leaves Sarajevo! After he returned from the USA where he played the Las Vegas Summerleague he decided to join the team of Sabit Hadzic. He signed a 1 year contract.
As he has been free agent, KK Bosna already admitted that it will be very difficult to extend with him since he had offers of Alba Berlin and other european teams.
However Bosna reacted quickly signing the captain of Vojvodina Srbijagas, Ivan Ivanovic (205-F-80, agency: Beo Basket) who signed a 1 year contract.
Edin Bavcic is currently in Slovenia with the NT.

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  BULGARIA   


Trailing in the majority of the game Croatian juniors beat Bulgarian - by Eurobasket News
Croatia U18-Bulgaria U18 71:67

Croatia U18 survived a great lesson from winless Bulgaria and defeated them 71:67. Trailing after the first and the third quarters Croatia won the encounter to improve to 2-0 in the group. Toni Prostran (190-G-91) paced all the winners with 23 points. Ivan Ramljak (200-F-90) nailed 16, whils Mario Delas (210-C-90) had 15. Hristo Zahariev (197-G-90) collected 15 points and 11 rebounds in defeat, while Aleksandar Yanev (198-F-90) scored 12.
Group D of the U18 European Championship for Men sees two team with 2-0 record including Croatia and two with 0-2, one of them is Bulgaria. The latter had a great beginning and scored first 8 points in the game. Toni Prostran reduced to 2:8 but then Bulgarians scored for 11-2 midway through the first quarter. Croatia woke up immediately and closed the first quarter at 14:17. Avramov's three-ball gave Bulgaria a 28:23 lead which Croatia equalized at 28:28 going into the break. Slavchev moved his team up again in the third for 29:28 lead in the beginning of the third. Marintchechki gave his team plus 10, but Ivan Ramljak posted two for 46:51.
Croatia produced 9-0 run in the fourth quarter and Ivan Ramljak tie the game at 67:67. Bulgaria remained scoreless, while Toni Prostran netted 4 more for the winners.

Croatia U18:Toni Prostran 23, Ivan Ramljak 16, Mario Delas 15
Bulgaria U18:Hristo Zahariev 15+11 rebs, Aleksandar Yanev 12

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  CANADA   


United States shoot down Canada in Las Vegas - by Eurobasket News
USA - Canada 120:65

The United States National Team opened their five-game exhibition series with an impressive victory over Canada at the Thomas & Mack Center in Las Vegas yesterday. Six players scored in double figures to pace the USA team. Carmelo Anthony (6'8''-F-84, college: Syracuse), Dwyane Wade (6'4''-G-82, college: Marquette) and Michael Redd (6'6''-G-79, college: Ohio St.) came up with 20 points apiece for the winners. Kobe Bryant (6'6''-G-78) had 15 points, while Deron Williams (6'3''-G-84, college: Illinois) secured 14 points for the United States. Canada were put first on the scoreboard but soon Dwyane Wade struck from downtown to give the USA lead for good in this one. The hosts rolled to a 30:24 lead at the first intermission. The USA kept running fast in the second stanza and capping the half with a 9:3 rally they enjoyed a 61:38 advantage at halftime. The United States team prevailed in the third period outscoring Canada 24:18 and then exploded with a 25:9 fourth term to seal the winning outcome. The USA shot outstanding 65% from the field including 50% from beyond the arc. Canada answered with 33% of field goals and committed 24 turnovers down the stretch. Jermaine Anderson (6'1''-G-83) led Canadian charge with 18 points. Rowan Barrett (6'6''-G/F-72, college: St.John's) and Carl English (6'4''-G-81, college: Hawaii) had 11 points each in defeat. The USA now move to Macao to take on Turkey and Lithuania in two more exhibition games. They will then travel to Shanghai to take on Russia and Australia prior to the Olympic Games tournament. The USA opens their Olympic campaign against China on August 10.

USA: Carmelo Anthony 20, Dwyane Wade 20, Michael Redd 20
Canada: Jermaine Anderson 18, Rowan Barrett 11, Carl English 11

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  CROATIA   


Trailing in the majority of the game Croatian juniors beat Bulgarian - by Eurobasket News
Croatia U18-Bulgaria U18 71:67

Croatia U18 survived a great lesson from winless Bulgaria and defeated them 71:67. Trailing after the first and the third quarters Croatia won the encounter to improve to 2-0 in the group. Toni Prostran (190-G-91) paced all the winners with 23 points. Ivan Ramljak (200-F-90) nailed 16, whils Mario Delas (210-C-90) had 15. Hristo Zahariev (197-G-90) collected 15 points and 11 rebounds in defeat, while Aleksandar Yanev (198-F-90) scored 12.
Group D of the U18 European Championship for Men sees two team with 2-0 record including Croatia and two with 0-2, one of them is Bulgaria. The latter had a great beginning and scored first 8 points in the game. Toni Prostran reduced to 2:8 but then Bulgarians scored for 11-2 midway through the first quarter. Croatia woke up immediately and closed the first quarter at 14:17. Avramov's three-ball gave Bulgaria a 28:23 lead which Croatia equalized at 28:28 going into the break. Slavchev moved his team up again in the third for 29:28 lead in the beginning of the third. Marintchechki gave his team plus 10, but Ivan Ramljak posted two for 46:51.
Croatia produced 9-0 run in the fourth quarter and Ivan Ramljak tie the game at 67:67. Bulgaria remained scoreless, while Toni Prostran netted 4 more for the winners.

Croatia U18:Toni Prostran 23, Ivan Ramljak 16, Mario Delas 15
Bulgaria U18:Hristo Zahariev 15+11 rebs, Aleksandar Yanev 12

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  CYPRUS   


Transfer news - by Chris Mammides
BMC AEK Larnakas agreed financial terms with shooting guard Vladimir Dujovic (194-G/F-82). Vladimir is a sharp three point shooter. He played mainly in the Skopjian league. His last two teams were, Pelister and Rudar Pljevalja. Dusan Milicic (201-G/F-79) is the other Bosman player who agreed terms with the Larnaka team, he was playing in the Lebanese league with the colors of Anibal. The thrid player who agreed terms with Marko Todorovic (204-F/C-85) who played in the Romanian league with BC TARGOVISTE BUCURESTI. Furthermore Marko Kandic (203-F-79) renewed his contract for anotehr one seazon

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  CZECH REPUBLIC   


Czech Republic U18 National Team 2008 - by Eurobasket
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#e#6


Satoransky


Kudlacek


Zampach


Gniadek


Vesely
4 Jiri Kysela (191-G-90) of A Plus OHL ZS Brno BC
5 Ondrej Kohout (196-F-91) of Sokol Prazsky
6 Michal Palat (194-G-90)
7 Ondrej Peterka (192-F-91)
8 Tomas Satoransky (196-G/F-91) of USK Praha
9 Jakub Kudlacek (186-G-90) of Trenkwalder Reggio Emilia (ITA)
10 Jakub Krakovic (204-F-90) of BK Prostejov
11 Marek Soucek (208-C/F-90) of A Plus OHL ZS Brno BC
12 Filip Zbranek (192-G-89)
13 Adam Zampach (198-G-90) of BK Usti nad Labem
14 Martin Gniadek (200-F-90)
15 Jan Vesely (210-F/C-90) of BC Partizan Igokea Beograd (SRB)
Head Coach: Jan Ulrych
Coach Assistant: Jan Skokan

U18 EC, division B: Czech Republic too strong for winless Netherlands - by Eurobasket News

U18 Czech Republic - U18 Netherlands 107-71

Czech Republic grabbed victory in its first appearance on U18 European Championship division B in Debrecin. Czechs had a day-off yesterday so they are looking forward to the next round having 1-0 while Netherlands faced with second failure. Thus Netherlands, which came to Hungary having big ambitions, is currently the only team in Preliminary Group A with two defats. Since the beginning of the game Czech Republic was the team which dominated. Big guy Jan Vesely (211-F/C-90) was unstoppable under the basket while Jakub Kudlacek (187-G-90) also had a pretty good day. After 15 minutes of the game Czechs created advantage of 17 points. Second half didn't change anything as Czechs continued at the same rhythm. Very soon it was unreachable 73-57 for them what was a sign that the game is lready over. Until the end Netherlands wasn't able to get any closer while on the other side Czech Republic didn't want to stop which resulted with final plus 36.

Jan Vesely was totally the best player in this game nailing 26 points. At the same time Czech's prospect grabbed 6 more rebounds and registered 5 steals. Jakub Kudlacek also shined for the winners with 21 points and 5 assists while Tomas Satoransky (197-G-91, agency: PPGroup) had 14 points and 7 assists. Jesse Voorn (186-G-90) was the top scorer Netherlands with 14 points while Stefan Mladenovic (188-G-90) had one point less than him. In the next round of U18 European Championship division B Czech Republic will take on Montenegro. On the other side Netherlands will plays its next game on Monday against the same rival, Montenegro.


U18 Czech Republic - U18 Netherlands 107-71
(33-23, 27-21, 24-15, 23-12)

Czech Republic: Jan Vesely 26 (6 rebs, 5 st), Jakub Kudlacek 21 (5 as), Tomas Satoransky 14 (7 as)
Netherlands: Jesse Voorn 14, Stefan Mladenovic 13



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  DENMARK   


U18 EC, division B: Denmark better than Finland in Scandinavian derby - by Eurobasket News
U18 Finland - U18 Denmark 55-65

It was a tough game between two Scandinavian teams at the second day of U18 European Championship division B in Hungary. Yesterday Finland was better than Hungary 82-69 while Slovakians were too strong for Denmark celebrating 98-67. Thus both teams currently has score 1-1 in Preliminary Group D.

Denmark totally outrebounded its rival in today's game. Finnish players struggled a lot with their stroke from behind the arc as well as from the field. They made only 4 of 22 attempts for 3-pts having just 35.9% for FG2. On the other side the winner of Scandinavian derby had almost 54% from the field. After starting 6-14 lead for Denmark, teams played almost leveled first half. Actually in the second frame Finland grabbed 3 points lead but it didn't last long. Crucial period of the game were first couple of minutes in the last stanza as Danish players were very focused at the offensive end. Frandsen and Nicolas Christensen (188-G-90) were almost unmistakable from the free throw line setting the score on 44-52 with six minutes to go. Finland tried to do something from behind the arc but it didn't help them to avoid first defeat on European Championship.

Denmark got the most points in this game from Nicolas Christensen, who netted 21 and at the same time grabbed 4 boards. Frandsen also demonstrated great performance collecting 20 points and 14 rebounds while Bak stopped on 13 points. Matti Nuutinen (198-F-90) contributed with 16 points and 4 rebounds for the loosing side while Antto Nikkarinen (183-G-91) had 11 points. Denmark will meet Georgia tomorrow while Finland's rival will be Slovak Republic.


U18 Finland - U18 Denmark 55-65
(15-17,14-14,13-14,13-20)

Finland: Matti Nuutinen 16 (4 rebs), Antto Nikkarinen 11
Denmark: Nicolas Christensen 21 (4 rebs), Frandsen 20 (14 rebs), Bak 13

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  DOMINICAN REPUBLIC   


LIDOBA: Friday's Results. - by Jaime Gomez
Reales de La Vega 101, Metros de Santiago 100.
Andres Sandoval (193-G-83, agency: AI Sports MM) hit a three point shot with 15 seconds left and Reales de La Vega de La Vega defeated defending champions Metros de Santiago de Santiago 101-100. It was the fourth victory in a row for Reales de La Vega and the second against Metros de Santiago.

For Reales de La Vega, Jorge Almanzar (193-G/F-76) 22 point, Andres Sandoval 15 points, Bobby Pandy (198-F, college: Tex.A&M-Kingsv.) 15 points and 13 rebounds, William Gomez (198-F/G-81, agency: Court Side) 11 points and 11 rebounds, Edgar Lugo (189-G-82, agency: HM Sports Agency, college: Lehman) 11 points.
For Metros de Santiago, Amaury Filion (206-C/F-81) 26 points and 7 rebounds, Alvin Snow (189-G-81, college: E.Washington) 18 points, Osvaldo Lopez (189-G/F-83) 16 points, Joel Ramirez (191-G-81) 14 points, Franklin Matos (190-G-82) 11 points.

Marineros de Puerto Plata 112, Indios de San Francisco 89

For Marineros de Puerto Plata, Jamaal Thomas (202-F-80, college: Angelo St.) 24 points, 6 rebounds, and 6 assists, Kelvin Pena (193-G-81, college: Southeastern CC) 19 points, Marlon Martinez (204-F/C-79, agency: DR. Carlos Sifuentes) 14 points, 5 rebounds and 8 assists, Sandro Encarnacion (203-86) 14 points and 7 rebounds,
Carlos Morban (187-G-82, agency: Global Sports Plaza, college: Florida Intern.) 11 poins and 5 assists, Olivier Gonzalez 11 points.

For Indios de San Francisco, Michael Dean 20 points, Jamal Holden (206-C-80, college: UALR) 20 points and 7 rebounds, Richard Ortega (188-G-82) 18 points.

Constituyentes de San Cristobal 95, Cocolos de San Pedro de Macoris 94

For Constituyentes de San Cristobal, Franklin Western (200-F-72, college: Providence) 33 points (14-19 FG) and 8 rebounds, Josue Abreu (188-G-66) 20 points, Manuel Guzman (203-F-82, college: Bemidji St.) 13 points, Jose Fortuna (180-G-84) 10 points.

For Cocolos de San Pedro de Macoris, Alberto Ozuna (203-F-82) 21 points and 6 assists, Sammy Villegas (198-G-83, agency: Next Level, college: Toledo) 17 points and 7 assists, Henry Lalane (199-F-78, college: St.Francis,NY) 16 points, Otto Vantroy (180-G-75) 15 points, Malcolm Battles (205-F/C-79, college: N.Mexico) 13 points.

Panteras del Distrito Nacional 84, Caneros de La Romana 78

For Panteras del Distrito Nacional, Manuel Fortuna (187-G) 24 points and 5 assists, Juan Bautista Araujo (206-F/C-83) 22 points and 8 rebounds, Henry Rodriguez 10 points.

For Caneros de La Romana, Marlon Dumont (206-F-77, college: TCU) 21 points, Edward Santana (203-F-80) 21 points and 9 rebounds, Andy Williams (195-G/F-80, agency: Court Side) 16 points.

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  ESTONIA   


The defending champions bounced back - by Eurobasket News
Serbia U18-Estonia U18 76:41

Serbia being the European champions got the first win in Greece. The second game in Group B saw them thrashing Estonia U18 76:41. Filip Sepa (199-G/F-90) paced all the winners with 19 points. Nenad Grujo (204-F-90) nailed 10, while Dusan Ognjenovic (216-C-91) scored 9. Rain Veideman (190-G-91) posted 9 in defeat, whilst Kristjan Kitsing (201-F/C-90) and Kristjan Penjam (185-G-90) added 8 each.
After Lithuanian Junior Team relied on an accurate shooting and a stifling defense to gain their first win at the European Championship in Greece, Spain looked hungry to revenge. The started with 4 consecutive points over Estonia and then grabbed 11:5 lead. Riznic from the free throw line made it 23:7 for the defending champions. Mitrovic's three game his team 31:15 as Serbia took full responsibility in the first half. Estonia slowly tried to get back into the game and trimmed the deficit to 13 points on a couple of occasions, including Kristjan Penjam's four-point play for a 34:21 scoreline. But Serbia continued to pour it on and led 43:22 at the break.
Stamenkovic opened the second half for the winners as they scored first 5 points in the third period. Mitrovic closed it with a free throw for 62:30 and by that time there were no questions about the winner. In the last one both teams played mostly in defense paying the majority of attention to it. Serbia won the last quarter 14:11 as Dusan Ognjenovic set up the final 76:41 score.

Serbia U18:Filip Sepa 19, Nenad Grujo 10, Dusan Ognjenovic 9
Estonia U18:Rain Veideman 9, Kristjan Kitsing 8, Kristjan Penjam 8

Estonian U18 National Team 2008 - by Eurobasket
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#e#6


Raudla


Soo


Penjam


Keedus


Kitsing
4 Siim Raudla (179-G-90) of Tallinn Technical Univ. KK
5 Martin Dorbek (183-G-91) of BC Kalev II
6 Janar Soo (190-G/F-91) of KK Parnu
7 Kristjan Penjam (185-G-90) of TTU SK KK
8 Erik Keedus (194-F-90) of Tallinn Technical Univ. KK
9 Madis Saarmets (201-C-90) of Tallinn Technical Univ. KK
10 Kristjan Rinaldo (195-G/F-91)
11 Rain Veideman (190-G-91) of BC Kalev II
12 Erik Riis (188-G-91) of BC Kalev II
14 Sass Karemae (199-F/C-90) of Tallinn Technical Univ. KK
15 Kristjan Kitsing (201-F/C-90) of Tartu Rock II
Head Coach: Aivars Kuusmaa
Coach Assistant: Alar Varrak

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  EUROPEAN CHAMPIONSHIPS U18   


M-Standings - Group B
Standings Div.B
Group A
1. Austria1-0
2. Czech Repu.1-0
3. Monteneg.1-0
4. Norway0-1
5. Holland0-2
Group B
1. Switzerl.2-0
2. Slovenia1-0
3. Sweden1-1
4. Ireland0-1
5. Bosnia0-2
Group C
1. Poland2-0
2. Romania1-0
3. U.Kingdom1-1
4. Portugal0-1
5. Belarus0-2
Group D
1. Slovakia1-0
2. Denmark1-1
3. Finland1-1
4. Georgia0-0
5. Hungary0-1


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  FINLAND   


U18 EC, division B: Denmark better than Finland in Scandinavian derby - by Eurobasket News
U18 Finland - U18 Denmark 55-65

It was a tough game between two Scandinavian teams at the second day of U18 European Championship division B in Hungary. Yesterday Finland was better than Hungary 82-69 while Slovakians were too strong for Denmark celebrating 98-67. Thus both teams currently has score 1-1 in Preliminary Group D.

Denmark totally outrebounded its rival in today's game. Finnish players struggled a lot with their stroke from behind the arc as well as from the field. They made only 4 of 22 attempts for 3-pts having just 35.9% for FG2. On the other side the winner of Scandinavian derby had almost 54% from the field. After starting 6-14 lead for Denmark, teams played almost leveled first half. Actually in the second frame Finland grabbed 3 points lead but it didn't last long. Crucial period of the game were first couple of minutes in the last stanza as Danish players were very focused at the offensive end. Frandsen and Nicolas Christensen (188-G-90) were almost unmistakable from the free throw line setting the score on 44-52 with six minutes to go. Finland tried to do something from behind the arc but it didn't help them to avoid first defeat on European Championship.

Denmark got the most points in this game from Nicolas Christensen, who netted 21 and at the same time grabbed 4 boards. Frandsen also demonstrated great performance collecting 20 points and 14 rebounds while Bak stopped on 13 points. Matti Nuutinen (198-F-90) contributed with 16 points and 4 rebounds for the loosing side while Antto Nikkarinen (183-G-91) had 11 points. Denmark will meet Georgia tomorrow while Finland's rival will be Slovak Republic.


U18 Finland - U18 Denmark 55-65
(15-17,14-14,13-14,13-20)

Finland: Matti Nuutinen 16 (4 rebs), Antto Nikkarinen 11
Denmark: Nicolas Christensen 21 (4 rebs), Frandsen 20 (14 rebs), Bak 13

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  FRANCE   


French U18 National Team 2008 - by Eurobasket
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#e#6


Sanchez


Albicy


Thibedore


Tanghe


Buval
4 Jonathan Bourhis (183-G-90) of JDA Dijon Bourgogne
5 Jerome Sanchez (196-F-90) of JL Bourg Basket
6 Andrew Albicy (178-G-90) of Paris-Levallois
7 Nicolas Lang (195-G-90) of ES Chalon-Sur-Saone
8 Paul Lacombe (193-G-90) of Adecco ASVEL Lyon-Villeurbanne
9 Florian Thibedore (192-G-90) of Besancon Basket Comte Doubs
10 Alexis Tanghe (207-F/C-90) of JDA Dijon Bourgogne
11 Chrislain Cairo (196-F-91) of Centre Federal du Basket-Ball
12 Christophe Leonard (199-F-90) of Cholet Basket
13 Thomas Celerier (204-C-90) of Chorale de Roanne Basket
14 Miguel Buval (206-F/C-90) of Elan Bearnais Pau-Orthez
15 Landing Sane (207-C-90) of Centre Federal du Basket-Ball
Head Coach: Philippe Ory
Coach Assistants: Philippe Urie , Frederic Carrion

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  GERMANY   


New faces in Bremen - by Moritz Korff
Josh Mueller (180-G-82, college: S.Dakota) and Svatoslav Turushev (182-G-82) have agreed to terms with the Bremen Roosters (2. Bundesliga Pro A), while Bjoern Fenneberg (186-G-80) has earned a contract-extension with the team for the 2008-09 campaign.
Mueller started this past season in Meckenheim (Regionalliga West) and moved to FC Bayern Muenchen to help the Bayarians to clinch the title in the Regionalliga South-East. He scored an average of 13.4 points in 5 encounters for FCB.
Turushev had 6.9 points per contest for the Roosters' local-rival Vegesacker TV in the 2. Regionalliga. Fenneberg joined Bremen during this past season and appeared in 6 games of the 2. Bundesliga Pro A, but remained scoreless in these games.

BSW Sixers land NCAA D2 All-American - by Moritz Korff
Regionalliga North-newcomer BSW Sixers has filled its second import player-spot for the 2008-09 season. Brandon Streeter (198-F, college: Mount Olive) will join the team of Coach Fritz Espenhahn. Streeter played college-basketball at Mount Olive College and was a teammate of Elton Coffield (193-G, college: Mount Olive) who extended his contract with the Sixers recently after leading the club to a championship in the 2. Regionalliga last season and 34 straight wins in the league. Streeter averaged team-highs 17.6 points and 8.9 rebounds per game for Mount Olive in 2007-08 and was third in the entire NCAA Division 2 in field goal-percentage (67.6%). He was named to the NCAA Division 2 All-America Fourth Team by the Division II Bulletin.

German U18 National Team 2008 - by Eurobasket
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Schmitz


Land


Vargas


Schrempf


Zirbes
4 Nico Adamczak (189-G-90) of VfB Hermsdorf Berlin
5 Simon Schmitz (188-G-90) of BIS Baskets Speyer
6 Niels Giffey (198-F-91) of TUS Lichterfelde Berlin
7 Jusuf El Domiaty (189-G-90) of Dallas Dolphins (USA)
8 Maurice Stuckey (187-G-90) of Erdgas Ehingen/Urspringschle
9 Erik Land (203-C-90) of TSV Troester II Breitengussbach
10 Akeem Vargas (190-G-90) of Erdgas Ehingen/Urspringschle
11 Alexander Schrempf (196-G/F-90) of High School USA
12 Bastian Winterthalter (200-F-90) of SOBA Dragons Rhoendorf
13 Marvin Kruchen (208-C-90) of Duesseldorf Giants
14 Maik Zirbes (205-C-90) of DJK MJC Trier
15 Jonas Wolfahrt-Bottermann (207-C-90) of Telekom Baskets Bonn
Head Coach: Kay Bluemel
Coach Assistant: Horst Schmitz

U18 EURO: Germany fell short to Russia - by Moritz Korff
After a good start in game one against France yesterday, the German U18-National Team suffered defeat (73:83) against Russia in the second encounter at the 2008 U18-EURO in Greece. Germany's big man Maik Zirbes (205-C-90) put up another great performance and paced the German offense once again. He produced 19 points and 6 rebounds. Maurice Stuckey (187-G-90) followed with 13 points and Alexander Schrempf (196-G/F-90) with 11 points. The German team turned the ball over 24 times in the game - too much to beat Russia. Especially in the first quarter the Germans had no answer to the Russian attack which scored 37 points in ten minutes. At the half Germany was trailing 39:51. Germany remained scoreless in the first five minutes of the second half, but reduced the margin to nine points in the last quarter.
Germany will take on Ukraine in the final game of the group-play on Sunday.
Boxscore: click

Karlsruhe hires new big man - by Moritz Korff
As Edward Seward (206-C-78, college: Norfolk St.) and Theodis Tarver (206-F/C-84, college: Georgia Tech) will not play for BG Karlsruhe (2. Bundesliga Pro A) in the upcoming season, the club officials needed a new man in the middle. They hired Justin Howard (208-C-81, college: Mercer) for 2008-09, as announced today. The Post Player from Orlando, Florida spent his college-career at Mercer University (NCAA1) and then moved to South America to turn pro. Howard suited up for teams in Mexico, Argentina and Chile over the past years. In this past season he was a member of Fuerza Guinda Nogales in Mexico.

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  GREECE   


U18 European Championship Men - Preliminary Round: Greece- Israel 89-67 - by Chris Mammides
An amazing fourth quarter with Konstantinos Sloukas (192-G-90) being the man of the game, the Hellenic NT U18 beat the fighting team of Israel 87-65 and is mathematically at the top of the group as with 2 wins in 2 games and with the Spanish team beating earlier on today the Belgian team, the Hellenic team has already qualified as first in the group no matter what the score will be tomorrow against the Belgian NT.
Zisis Sarikopoulos (212-C-90) with 13 points and 13 rebounds, Vladimir Jankovic (208-F-90) with 16 points and 15 rebounds and Pappas with 16 points helped the Hellenic team to overran an 11-28 in the last quarter and to overcome the Israelis who cut the deficit of the first quarter and they even took the leading role with 55-51, 3.58 before the end of the third quarter, but the last minutes were magic for the Hellenic team as with 0/13 three pointers up to the specific minute, the young Hellenes scored 4/5 in the last parts of the game and took the amazing win with 22 points difference.
Top scorer for coach Giorgos Vlassopoulos team was Konstantinos Sloukas with 23 points while special remarks must be given to the defensive activities of Konstantinos Papanikolaou (203-F/G-90).
From the Israelis who will fight for the second place against Spain tomorrow, top scorer was Nadav Hayman with 19 points followed by Yotam Shiran (198-F-90) with 13.
The quarters were: 14-21, 32-41, 56-61 and the final score 89-67.
Next game for the Hellenic team in this preliminary round is tomorrow against Belgium.

Greek U18 National Team 2008 - by Eurobasket
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Sloukas


Giankovits


Pappas


Kaselakis


Sarikopoulos
4 Epameinondas Papantoniou (190-G-90) of Costa Cafe Marousi
5 Dimitrios Katsivelis (194-G-91) of Mas Mantoulidis
6 Ioannis Angelopoulos (194-G-91) of Ilysiakos Athens
7 Evangelos Mantzaris (190-G-90) of DASH Peristeri Athens
8 Ioannis Karathanasis (200-F-91) of Panionios ON Telecoms Athens
9 Konstantinos Papanikolaou (203-F/G-90) of Aris Thessaloniki
10 Georgios Georgakis (205-C-91) of Mas Mantoulidis
11 Konstantinos Sloukas (192-G-90) of Mas Mantoulidis
12 Vlantimir Giankovits (202-C-90) of Panionios ON Telecoms Athens
13 Nikolaos Pappas (194-G-90) of Panellinios Athens
14 Leonidas Kaselakis (202-C-90) of Ilysiakos Athens
15 Zisis Sarikopoulos (212-C-90) of Ohio State University (USA)
Head Coach: Giorgos Vlassopoulos
Coach Assistant: serafeim Theodosiou

Market news - by Chris Mammides

Josh Childress (203-G/F-83, college: Stanford) is officially and for the next 3 years an Olympiakos Piraeus player, the same goes for Igor Milosevic (193-G-86) with the only difference that his contract is for 2 years.
Head Coach Kostas Flevarakis agreed financial terms with AEK Athens and will be heading the Athenss team this difficult period, Priftis will be his assistant Coach while the second assistant coach will be the ex player Christos Tsekos (210-C-66).
Nikos Boudouris (192-G-71) who just split ways with Costa Cafe Marousi, joined forces with the rejuvenated team of PAOK, Nikos Boudouris will be the new Technical Advisor of the team.
Loukas Mavrokefalides (207-C-84) agreed financial terms with Costa Cafe Marousi (Lending agreement from Olympiakos Piraeus) for one year.
Tassos Harismidis (203-F-81) renewed his contract for another one year with Trikala 2000
Torin Francis (210-F-83, college: Notre Dame) is the new American center of Coach Giorgos Bartzokas Olimpia GE Larissa, the American center who played two seasons in the Italian league signed an one year contract with Larissas team.
Goran Nikolic (205-C-76) agreed financial terms with Panionios ON Telecoms Athens for one year.
Panathinaikos agreed terms with the talented young Giannis Dimakopoulos (210-C-94) son of the ex basketball player Christos Dimakopoulos

A2
Dimitris Katiakos (205-F-87) agreed financial terms with Panerythraikos AS (on a lending agreement from Panionios ON Telecoms Athens)
Dimitar Mirakovski (180-G-81) agreed financial terms with Ago Rethimno Almeco for the next year.
Dimitris Athanasiadis (193-F-77) agreed financial terms with Dafni Athens, the ex Apollon Patras player will wear Dafnis jersey for the next two years.
AEP Olimpias Patron agreed terms with Giannis Kritikos (201-G/F-78), Efstathios Peroulis (193-G-85), Giannis Grammatikos (191-G-85) and Stavros Pardakas (201-F-84)
HSBC Pagrati Athens agreed financial terms with Theodoros Tsiotras (198-G-87), Nikos Voulgaris (193-G-78), Giorgos Koukas (180-G-85), Costas Maheras (206-C-84), and Antonis Davris (191-G87) ex Ilioupolis GS player
MENT Vassilakis agreed financial terms with Giannis Vasileiou (194-G-87).

Orestis Matenidis ex Goumenisa player agreed financial terms with ICBS



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  HOLLAND   


U18 EC, division B: Czech Republic too strong for winless Netherlands - by Eurobasket News

U18 Czech Republic - U18 Netherlands 107-71

Czech Republic grabbed victory in its first appearance on U18 European Championship division B in Debrecin. Czechs had a day-off yesterday so they are looking forward to the next round having 1-0 while Netherlands faced with second failure. Thus Netherlands, which came to Hungary having big ambitions, is currently the only team in Preliminary Group A with two defats. Since the beginning of the game Czech Republic was the team which dominated. Big guy Jan Vesely (211-F/C-90) was unstoppable under the basket while Jakub Kudlacek (187-G-90) also had a pretty good day. After 15 minutes of the game Czechs created advantage of 17 points. Second half didn't change anything as Czechs continued at the same rhythm. Very soon it was unreachable 73-57 for them what was a sign that the game is lready over. Until the end Netherlands wasn't able to get any closer while on the other side Czech Republic didn't want to stop which resulted with final plus 36.

Jan Vesely was totally the best player in this game nailing 26 points. At the same time Czech's prospect grabbed 6 more rebounds and registered 5 steals. Jakub Kudlacek also shined for the winners with 21 points and 5 assists while Tomas Satoransky (197-G-91, agency: PPGroup) had 14 points and 7 assists. Jesse Voorn (186-G-90) was the top scorer Netherlands with 14 points while Stefan Mladenovic (188-G-90) had one point less than him. In the next round of U18 European Championship division B Czech Republic will take on Montenegro. On the other side Netherlands will plays its next game on Monday against the same rival, Montenegro.


U18 Czech Republic - U18 Netherlands 107-71
(33-23, 27-21, 24-15, 23-12)

Czech Republic: Jan Vesely 26 (6 rebs, 5 st), Jakub Kudlacek 21 (5 as), Tomas Satoransky 14 (7 as)
Netherlands: Jesse Voorn 14, Stefan Mladenovic 13



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  INDIA   


Sridhar Shanmugam participates in ESL Salt Lake City - by Eurobasket News
Sridhar Shanmugam (187-F-78) is taking part in the Eurobasket Summer League playing for Sofia team. Indian player started his professional career in 2003 for BEML Mysore. In 2004 he moved to Ongc Dehradun and spent their also an entire season. In 2005-2006 he played for Ongc Dehradun (1T) - Uttaranhal. For KPS Stars he averaged 17 points, 7 rebounds and 5 assists per game.
The ESL in Salt Lake City began on Thursday night to conclude a successful series of the day tournaments around the USA that has created a buzz in the industry. The ESL in Salt Lake City started last night as the summer basketball season is closing and most of the European scouts from the Rocky Mountain Revue are heading back to Europe and we saw the result last night at the Franklin Covey gym as there were a low number of scouts attending the ESL.However the ESL has been followed by hundreds of coaches around Europe on-line and have contacted our staff regarding several talented players who have done well at our previous events. As of a result players have been getting a range of job offers due to their performances at the ESL which has been amazing.
Sofia lost the opener to Munich 89:109. Sridhar Shanmugam's team played well, but Munich controlled the majority of the encounter. Nick Covington was outstanding for the winners as he scored 26 points and shot the lights out, played great defense and provided nice point guard play. Sofia team had three players who were just outright outstanding but did not get a lot of help from the rest of the team.

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  IRELAND   


U18 EC, division B: Switzerland grabs win against Ireland - by Eurobasket News
U18 Switzerland - U18 Ireland 72-68

At the opening day of U18 European Championship division B Switzerland beat Ireland thanks to well played last quarter. Thus Switzerland is currently on top of Preliminary Group B together with Sweden while Ireland and Bosnia and Herzegovina opened championship suffering defeat. The only team from Group B which had a day-off yesterday was Slovenia.

It was not a perfect beginning for Swiss as they had minus 6 after the first 10 minutes. Ireland continued to play even better in the next stanza and mostly owing to Daniel James (193-F-90) and Tumon grabbed 21-30 in 14th minute. Two minutes later, after free throw by Daniel James, Irish touched plus 10 for the first time in this game. Switzerland was hopeless during this quarter while on the other side o'Sullivan woke up brining 11 points lead for his team at the half time. It is almost unexplainable how Irish succeeded to loose this game as they had 36-51 at the middle of third stanza. However until the end of it Swiss made 13-5 run coming closer before the crucial ten minutes. Ian Savoy (187-G-90) and Kevin Bovet (196-F-82) stepped up for Switzerland making another 16-7 run and tying the score on 68-68. During the last minute Ireland committed two turnovers and missed one shot while Ian Savoy added 4 points for his team.

Switzerland got 17 points and 6 rebounds from Jonathan Kazadi (188-G-91) while hero of the game Ian Savoy netted 17 points. Kevin Bovet followed these two players with 10 points. Daniel James added 16 points and 7 rebounds for Ireland. O'Sullivan finished the game with 11 points while Conor James (188-G-90) had one points less than him. Switzerland will meet Bosnia and Herzegovina today while Ireland has a day-off.


U18 Switzerland - U18 Ireland 72-68
(17-23,11-16,21-17,23-12)

Switzerland: Jonathan Kazadi 17 (6 rebs), Ian Savoy 17, Kevin Bovet 10
Ireland: Daniel James 16 (7 rebs), O'Sullivan 11, Conor James 10

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  ISRAEL   


Israeli U18 National Team 2008 - by Eurobasket
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Moran


Bouchman


Ariely


Ventura


Shiran
4 Ron Sabag (184-G-90) of Hapoel Gilboa-Galil Elyon
5 Omer Rub (176-G-90) of Maccabi Ironi Ramat Gan
6 Liran Moran (192-G-90) of Maccabi Qiryat Motzkin
7 Daniel Tamir (206-C-91) of Hapoel Migdal Jerusalem
8 Carmel Bouchman (205-F-91) of Maccabi Electra Tel-Aviv
9 Nadav Heyman (187-G-90)
10 Tamir Ariely (190-G-90) of Maccabi Haifa
11 Elad Ventura (190-G-90) of Maccabi Raanana
12 Yotam Shiran (198-F-90) of Hapoel Gilboa-Galil Elyon
13 Tal Karpelesz (194-F-90)
14 Or Eida (202-F-90) of Hapoel Givatayim
15 Ben Reis (196-F-90) of Bnei Hasharon
Head Coach: Dan Franko
Coach Assistant: Hen Schnaiderman

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  ITALY   


Italian U18 National Team 2008 - by Eurobasket
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#e#6


Sandri


De Nicolao


Cournooh


Melli


Paolisso
4 Lorenzo Panzini (185-G-90) of Banca Marche Ancona
5 Riccardo Moraschini (192-G-91) of La Fortezza Bologna
6 Daniele Sandri (196-F/G-90) of Benetton Treviso
7 Andrea De Nicolao (175-G-91)
8 Luca Campani (204-F-90) of Trenkwalder Reggio Emilia
9 Alessandro Amici (197-G-91) of Scavolini-Gruppo Spar Pesaro
10 David Cournooh (190-G-90) of Montepaschi Siena
11 Raffaele Martone (211-C-90) of Montepaschi Siena
12 Andrea Muner (196-F-90) of Benetton Treviso
13 Nicolo Melli (205-F-91) of Trenkwalder Reggio Emilia
14 Pasquale Paolisso (203-F/C-90) of Air Avellino
15 Jacopo Borra (211-C-90) of Upim Bologna
Head Coach: Alessandro Ramagli
Coach Assistants: Federico Danna , Roberto Rocca

Market News - by Stefano Pini
Drake Diener (196-G-81, agency: Priority Sports, college: De Paul) came back to Capo D'Orlando. The talented shooting guard was one of the leader of the team in the first part of the last season. Capo D'Orlando is close to announce also the deal with Nik Caner-Medley (203-F-83, agency: Priority Sports, college: Maryland) last season at Gran Canaria. Snaidero Udine inked his 2nd american player, the venezuelan forward Hector Romero (202-F-80, college: New Orleans).Armani Jeans confirmed Mindaugas Katelynas (205-F-83, college: Chattanooga) for the next season. At Montegranaro the Darius Rice (208-F-82, college: Miami, FL) will be probabily the player that will substitute Valerio Amoroso (202-F-80)

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  LATVIA   


Latvian U18 National Team 2008 - by Eurobasket
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#e#6


Steinbergs


Krumins


Laksa


Zeidaks


Blaus
4 Girts Celms (182-G-90) of SK Kandava
5 Ricmonds Vilde (200-F-90)
6 Martins Steinbergs (187-G-90)
7 Kalvis Krumins (182-G-90) of BK Zemgale Jelgava
8 Kristaps Brigmanis (185-G-90) of LU/Ridzene
9 Martins Laksa (196-F-90) of ASK Kadeti Riga
10 Armands Osins (190-G-91) of Ridzene/Barons 91
11 Oto Osenieks (201-F-90)
12 Maris Ziedins (198-F/C-90) of Valmiera-2
13 Kristers Zeidaks (201-F-90) of LU/Ridzene
14 Lauris Blaus (204-C-90) of BK Keizarmezs Riga
15 Davis Rozitis (206-C-90) of SK Cesis / Remarks
Head Coach: Varis Krumins
Coach Assistants: Ivars Bambis , Aigars Brigmanis

Turkey U18 remains undefeated sending Latvia to 0-2 - by Eurobasket News
Turkey U18 -Latvia U18 71:68

Turkey U18 improved to 2-0 in Group D of U18 European Championship for Men. In the second game the team overcame Latvia U18 71:68. Volkan Incekara (192-G-90) and Melih Mahmutoglu (192-G-90) combined for five foul shots in the final seconds to remain his team undefeated at the tournament. Enes Kanter (205-C-92) led the winners with 18 point and 11 rebounds. Melih Mahmutoglu netted 15, while Volkan Incekara scored 13. Girts Celms (182-G-90) ended up with 14 in defeat, while Kristers Zeidaks (202-F-90) collected 12 points and 9 rebounds.
In the beginning of the game it was a tough start and both teams stayed close at 7:7. Turkey then went on 10-0 run, but Latvia reduced to 26:22 by the end of the opening quarter. Even though Latvia won the second period 21:19 Turkey lead 45:43 at the break as Deniz Kilicli came off the bench for back-to-back basket.
It was Latvia to score first six points in the third quarter and to take the control of it. Turkey remained scoreless until the middle of the period. Enes Kanter scored some baskets and Kilicli's foul shots pushed Taner Gonay's side ahead 53:52. Osins made it 57:54 as the teams finished the third period. In a tough quarter the game remained interesting until the last seconds. Volkan Incekara and Melih Mahmutoglu combined for five foul shots in the final seconds to remain his team undefeated at the tournament.

Turkey U18:Enes Kanter 18+11 rebs, Melih Mahmutoglu 15, Volkan Incekara 13
Latvia U18:Girts Celms 14, Kristers Zeidaks 12+9 rebs

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  LIBYA   


Shabab Cup Champions - by Anas Seddigh
For the third consecutive year Al Shabab wins the AL-Fateh Cup competition to become the second team in Libyan Basketball history to make this achievement after Al Madina Back in 1997,98,99.

The Final game was played in Solaiman Al-Darat arena in Benghazi in front of almost a 3000 Ahli Benghazi supporters who saw their team take the advantage in the first quarter building a 5 point lead ending it 19-14 for them.

the second quarter was close , Ahli Benghazi kept their lead and Al Shabab kept trailing , six points from free throw line from Al Shabab player mohammed Issa decreased the difference to one point , half time ended 35-34 for Ahli Benghazi.

Both teams exchanged the lead in the third quarter for 8 times before Ahli Benghazi took a 6 point lead in the last two minutes of this quarter made the result 54-48.

Ahli Benghazi kept their 6 point lead in the first minutes of the forth quarter ,but a well timed time-out by Al Shabab coach Osama Seddigh let his team to score 9 consecutive points to take the lead and keep it to the end of the game 76-69 and become the Cup champions.

With this game the 2007-2008 season comes to an end in one of the most successful seasons in Libyan Basketball after approving the new league system by the federation, Al Ittihad became the league champions for the 17th time ,Al Shabab the Cup champions for the third time.

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  LITHUANIA   


Lithuania rules against Argentina in Spain - by Eurobasket News
Lithuania - Argentina 94:75

Lithuanian National Team bounced back after a blow by Spain to post the first win at the International Ourense Tournament. Yesterday Ramunas Butautas guys wore down stars-packed Argentina. Lithuania overwhelmed their opponents in the opening stanza. They tallied impressive 33 points to build a 19-point cushion heading into the second stanza. Argentina still struggled to find the necessary offensive rhythm and scored just 12 points in the second frame. Lithuania capitalized and piled up a 56:26 advantage at halftime. Argentina come back to life in the second half. The shots started to drop and the tempo raised a bit as the Latin American team took over. Luis Scola (206-F/C-80) tried to revive the intrigue in this one but the deficit was too big to overcome. Argentinean team fought back 4 points in the third frame and played aggressively in the fourth. However the Baltic powerhouse never allowed Argentina to come within striking distance and celebrated a well-deserved win at the end. Rimantas Kaukenas (193-G-77, college: Seton Hall) paced the winners with 15 points. Marius Prekevicius (196-F-84, agency: Interperformances, college: S.Florida) and Simas Jasaitis (202-F/G-82) had 14 points apiece, while Lavrinovic added 12 for Lithuania. Luis Scola knocked down 12 points for Argentina. Carlos Delfino (199-G-82) topscored with 16 points in defeat. Argentina will take on Spain today.

Lithuania: Rimantas Kaukenas 15, Marius Prekevicius 14, Simas Jasaitis 14
Argentina: Carlos Delfino 16, Paolo Quinteros (185-G-79) 13, Luis Scola 12

Lithuanian U18 National Team 2008 - by Eurobasket
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#e#6


Peciukevicius


Slezas


Biruta


Kadzevicius


Staniulis
4 Evaldas Kairys (209-C-90) of KM-SSK-Perlas Vilnius
5 Matas Sapiega (180-G-90) of Zalgiris-Sabonio mokykla Kaunas
6 Augustas Peciukevicius (190-G-91) of Lietuvos Rytas Vilnius
7 Gediminas Bertasius (196-F-90) of Akademija-MRU Vilnius
8 Kristijonas Gaska (188-G-90) of Akademija-MRU Vilnius
9 Tautvydas Slezas (210-C-90) of Lietuvos Rytas Vilnius
10 Gilvydas Biruta (200-F-91)
11 Donatas Motiejunas (215-C-90) of Zalgiris-Sabonio mokykla Kaunas
12 Mantas Kadzevicius (193-G-91) of Akademija-MRU Vilnius
13 Marius Zimnickas (198-G-90) of Lietuvos Rytas Vilnius
14 Tomas Milinskas (202-F-90) of KKM-Aisciai Kauno
15 Giedrius Staniulis (205-C-91)
Head Coach: Vitoldas Masalskis
Coach Assistants: Marius Linartas , Gintaras Razutis

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  NBA   


RMR racap from last day and Anthony Morrow was the MVP - by Bruno Baltazar
The first game on the final day of the Rocky Mountain Revue got under way with a game between the undefeated Golden State Warriors (4-0) facing the Atlanta Hawks (3-2). Atlanta would be without their best player as Acie Law (6'3''-G-85, college: Texas A&M) left the team early to attend to some personal matters.
Atlanta never lost control and the Bennett/Gardner show added another player as Othello Hunter (6'8''-F-86) would score 12 of his 20 points in the quarter. Atlanta wins 105-91 handing the Warriors their first loss of Revue.

The Hawks were led by Demetric Bennett (6'4''-G-85) with 30 points, Thomas Gardner (6'5''-G-85, agency: Octagon, college: Missouri) scored 27 points and Othello Hunter added 20 points. The three combined to score 77 of the 105 Atlanta points in their win against the Warriors 105-91 .

The Finale of the Rocky Mountain Revue sees the Dallas Mavericks (3-2) battle the Utah Jazz (3-2) with a very exciting subtext: the Revues scoring title is on the line.
Dallas Charles Rhoades, a rookie out of Mississippi State, who scored a game high 15 points. As for our Almond vs. Green scoring title bout Morris won, by 1. Also, the RMR Most Valuable Player was Anthony Morrow (6'5''-G-85) (6'5''-G-85) of Golden State. Final result Utah 105-Mavs 91

2008 RMR MVP: Anthony Morrow

2008 ALL-REVUE TEAM: Anthony Morrow, Morris Almond (6'6''-F-85, college: Rice), Gerald Green (6'8''-G/F-86), Anthony Randolph (6'11''-F-89, college: LSU), Acie Law IV

Others receiving votes: Hamed Ehadadi (IRA), George Hill (6'2''-G-86) (SA), Anthony Tolliver (6'9''-C-85, agency: Larry Fox Services, college: Creighton) (SA), Jaycee Carroll (6'2''-G-83, agency: Priority Sports) (NJ), Reyshawn Terry (6'8''-F-84, college: N.Carolina) (DAL), Glen McGowan (6'9''-F-81, college: Pepperdine) (NBADL), Othello Hunter (ATL), Jeremy Richardson (6'7''-G/F-83, college: Delta St.) (ATL), Julius Hodge (6'7''-G-83, college: N.Carolina St.) (NJ), Ryan Anderson (6'10''-F-88, agency: Arik Krayn Services, college: California) (NJ), Aaron Miles (6'1''-G-83, agency: Octagon, college: Kansas) (DAL), DeMarcus Nelson (6'4''-G-85) (GS)

Market news - by Bruno Baltazar
The Sacramento Kings signed point guard Bobby Brown (6'2''-G-84, agency: Priority Sports, college: Cal.St. Fullerton) .
At 6-2 and 175 pounds, Brown averaged 15.2 points (.424 FGs, .750 FTs), 6.3 assists, 3.2 rebounds and 35.0 minutes per game through six contests, all of which he started for the New Orleans Hornets during the 2008 NBA Summer League in Las Vegas. He tallied double-figures in each game, including a 20-point effort versus Charlotte (7/13) and recorded a double-double with 13 points and 10 assists against Portland (7/20).
After not being drafted in the 2007 NBA Draft, Brown helped Alba Berlin win the German club championship last season, averaging 14.5 points (.433 FGs, .319 3FGs, .810 FTs), 4.1 assists and 3.2 rebounds per game over 16 outings. He averaged 17.4 points (.444 FGs, .404 3FGs, .857 FTs), 4.4 assists, 2.8 rebounds and 1.1 steals per game through nine contests in the UELB Cup.

The Utah Jazz announced that the team has exercised its first right of refusal on guard C.J. Miles (6'6''-G-87) contract.
Miles (6-6, 220, Skyline H.S. (TX)) has appeared in 120 games (26 starts) in three seasons with the Jazz, averaging 4.0 points, 1.3 rebounds and 0.8 assists in 10.5 minutes per game. Miles appeared in 60 games (13 starts) for the Jazz in 2007-08, posting career highs of 5.0 points and 0.9 assists in 11.5 minutes per game. Originally selected by the Jazz in the second round (34th pick overall) of the 2005 NBA Draft, the then 18-year-old became the youngest player in Jazz franchise history.

Maurice Evans (6'5''-G-78, college: Texas) has agreed to terms with the Hawks on a three-year deal believed to be worth about $7.5 million, according to multiple sources familiar with the situation.
But that was before Childress bolted for the Euro league and before the Warriors decided to match a three-year, $9 million offer sheet to their own restricted free agent swingman, Kelena Azubuike, from the Los Angeles Clippers Thursday.
Evans, a 6-foot-5, 220-pound swingman, averaged 9.3 points and 3.1 rebounds in 68 games last season after being traded to Orlando from the Los Angeles Lakers.
Evans played the best game of his NBA career against the Hawks in April. He scored a career-high 27 points in a 121-105 win over the Hawks on April 15 at Philips Arena.

Charlotte Bobcats has re-signed restricted free agent center Ryan Hollins (6'11''-C-84, agency: Life Sports, college: UCLA). The 50th overall selection in the 2006 NBA Draft, Hollins appeared in 60 games with one start last season, averaging 2.5 points and 1.8 rebounds in 8.9 minutes.
The 7-0, 230-pound Hollins has appeared in 87 career games for the Bobcats, averaging 2.4 points and 1.6 rebounds. Hollins was assigned to the Fort Worth Flyers of the NBA Development League from November 22, 2006 to December 19, 2006, averaging 12.2 points, 10.4 rebounds and 2.0 blocks in six games.

Alexander Vujacic (6'7''-G-84) averaged 8.8 points in 17.2 minutes during the regular season and shot 45.4% from the field, including 43.7% from three-point range. In the playoffs, he averaged 21.7 minutes, 8.1 points and shot 39.9%, including 39.2% from beyond the three-point arc. And now he re-signed with the Lakers getting a deal valid for 3 seasons and 15usd millions.
Retaining Alexander Vujacic became even more important for the Lakers after they lost reserve forward Ronny Turiaf to Golden State. Turiaf signed a four-year, $17-million deal with the Warriors, which the Lakers declined to match.

United States shoot down Canada in Las Vegas - by Eurobasket News
USA - Canada 120:65

The United States National Team opened their five-game exhibition series with an impressive victory over Canada at the Thomas & Mack Center in Las Vegas yesterday. Six players scored in double figures to pace the USA team. Carmelo Anthony (6'8''-F-84, college: Syracuse), Dwyane Wade (6'4''-G-82, college: Marquette) and Michael Redd (6'6''-G-79, college: Ohio St.) came up with 20 points apiece for the winners. Kobe Bryant (6'6''-G-78) had 15 points, while Deron Williams (6'3''-G-84, college: Illinois) secured 14 points for the United States. Canada were put first on the scoreboard but soon Dwyane Wade struck from downtown to give the USA lead for good in this one. The hosts rolled to a 30:24 lead at the first intermission. The USA kept running fast in the second stanza and capping the half with a 9:3 rally they enjoyed a 61:38 advantage at halftime. The United States team prevailed in the third period outscoring Canada 24:18 and then exploded with a 25:9 fourth term to seal the winning outcome. The USA shot outstanding 65% from the field including 50% from beyond the arc. Canada answered with 33% of field goals and committed 24 turnovers down the stretch. Jermaine Anderson (6'1''-G-83) led Canadian charge with 18 points. Rowan Barrett (6'6''-G/F-72, college: St.John's) and Carl English (6'4''-G-81, college: Hawaii) had 11 points each in defeat. The USA now move to Macao to take on Turkey and Lithuania in two more exhibition games. They will then travel to Shanghai to take on Russia and Australia prior to the Olympic Games tournament. The USA opens their Olympic campaign against China on August 10.

USA: Carmelo Anthony 20, Dwyane Wade 20, Michael Redd 20
Canada: Jermaine Anderson 18, Rowan Barrett 11, Carl English 11

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  POLAND   


U18 EC, division B: Poland smashes Belarus for top of group C - by Eurobasket News
U18 Poland - U18 Belarus 96-50

Poland demonstrated its power against Belarus today remaining undefeated on U18 European Championship division B in Debrecin. On the other side Belarus is currently the only team in Preliminary Group C which has 2 defeats. Polish players totally outrebounded their opponent today registering 42 rebounds matched with only 25 by Belarus. At the same time Poland also had nice shot percentage from the field making 26 of 41 attempts.

Poland was a way better team from the early beginning. They made quick 9-2 led after what they extended it to 19-11. After three minutes of the second quarter Jaroslaw Mokros (196-F-90), Sebastian Szymanski (182-G-91) and Piotr Pamula (190-G-90) brought 18 points lead to their team. Level of the quality between these two teams was obvious. Belarus made many mistake in offense while its defense didn't look any better. Everything resulted with more than comfortable win of Poland in the second day of the competition.

Jaroslaw Mokros and Piotr Pamula were best scorers for the winning team netting 17 points each. Sebastian Szymanski, who shined at the opening day of U18 European Championship division B, counted until 14. Belarus got 16 points from Valiantsin Ihnatchyk (-91) while Uladzimir Krysevich (205-C-91) added 11 points. Poland will try to continue its winning streak tomorrow against Romania. Belarus will meet Portugal hoping to grab first win in Hungary.


U18 Poland - U18 Belarus 96-50
(26-16, 22-15, 24-8, 24-11)

Poland: Jaroslaw Mokros 17 (8 rebs), Piotr Pamula 17 (4 as), Sebastian Szymanski 14
Belarus: Valiantsin Ihnatchyk 16, Uladzimir Krysevich 11

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  PORTUGAL   


U18 EC, division B: England cruises past Portugal for the first win - by Eurobasket News
U18 Portugal - U18 England 69-82

England beat Portugal in the second day of U18 European Championship in Hungary improving its score in preliminary Group C to 1-1. Portuguese couldn't handle Neighbour, who demonstrated fantastic performance leading his team to first win in Debrecin. At the same time Portugal struggled a lot with its 3-point shots as well as with rebounding. England finished the game grabbing 16 boards more than its rival.

Beginning of the game belonged to England. After triple by Lawrence, they made 6-10 and later increased it to 6-12. England could make even bigger lead in the second stanza but Portuguese showed some of their qualities. Valente and Rodrigues made few shots stopping England on their way. However, slightly better performance of Portuguese at the middle of the second quarter didn't help them as England finished it later 14-16. Portugal had a nice chance for a turn after the breather as its players succeeded to equalize on 39-39 but after that moment they somehow stopped playing. England took control on them making crucial 14-2 run. Everything what Portugal done until the end was just minus 6 but nothing more than that.

Neighbour was a clutch player of the game for England registering excellent 26 points and 14 rebounds. Lawrence also shined adding 13 points, 6 rebounds and 8 assists while Michael Manghum (175-G-91) had 12 points. Portugal got 17 points and 8 rebounds from Rodrigues while Valente posted 14 points including 4 boards. Diogo Correia (185-G-90) stopped on 11 points. Portugal will try to beat Belarus tomorrow while England will take a rest.


U18 Portugal - U18 England 69-82
(15-18,14-16,20-25,20-23)

Portugal: Rodrigues 17 (8 rebs), Valente 14 (4 rebs), Diogo Correia 11
England: Neighbour 26 (14 rebs), Lawrence 13 (6 rebs, 8 as), Michael Manghum 12

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  ROMANIA   


U18 EC, division B: Tough win for Romanians against Belarus - by Eurobasket News
U18 Belarus - U18 Romania 62-69

It was a joyful first day of the U18 European Championship division B for Romanians. They struggled 30 minutes against Belarus resolving question about the winner in furious last quarter. Belarus headed into the crucial 10 minutes having 58-49 but then Rolland Torok (198-C-90) and Stretea finally woke up. It seemed that Romania is totally deferent team than it was during the first 30 minutes. They came into the last quarter with attitude intensifying defense on a highest level. Everything resulted with 13-0 run for 5:40 in the last period. After this one, Rolland Torok and Stretea took care for another 7-2 run celebrating first win on the championship. Romania dominated under the basket grabbing 31 boards matched with 20 by Belarus. Interesting is that both teams played very concentrated during the entire time so they committed just 10 turnovers together. The main problem for Belarus in the last stanza was many missed wide open shots and patience at the offensive end.

Rolland Torok paced Romania to win collecting 15 points and 9 rebounds. Stretea also demonstrated pretty good performance netting 14 points. Aliaksandr Hrumiantsau (-91) and Valiantsin Ihnatchyk (-91) scored 12 points each for Belarus while Viktar Ausepian (-91) had 10 points and 5 rebounds. In third round of competition in Preliminary Group C Belarus will playa against Poland. On the other side Romania will have a day-off.


U18 Belarus - U18 Romania 62-69
(19-15,21-15,18-19,4-20)

Belarus: Aliaksandr Hrumiantsau 12, Valiantsin Ihnatchyk 12, Viktar Ausepian 10 (5 rebs)
Romania: Rolland Torok 15 (9 rebs), Stretea 14

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  RUSSIA   


Russia U18 becomes the only leader in Group C - by Eurobasket News
Russia U18-Germany U18 83:73

Russia U18 became the only undefeated team in Group C of U18 European Championship for Men. In the battle for the first the team overcame Germany U18 83:73. An offensive 37:20 start gave them more confidence in the whole game. Vladimir Pichkurov (190-G-90) top-scored for the winners with 24 points. Sergey Palkin (191-G-90) posted 19, while Andrey Semenov (200-C-90) added 11. Maik Zirbes (205-C-90) produced 19 in defeat and Maurice Stuckey (187-G-90) had 13.
Russia was too good from the start and trailing just 11-9 used 17-4 run and a 28:13 lead. The Russians pushed the advantage to 37-20 after one period and it was up to a 21-point margin 47:36. The German team turned the ball over 24 times in the game - too much to beat Russia. At the half Germany was trailing 39:51 when Maurice Stuckey dunked the ball. Germany remained scoreless in the first five minutes of the second half as Russia entered it with Valiev's basket. Grigoryev's lay-up brought them 67:50 entering the last period. Even though German squad won the period 23:16 they just reduced to 10 points in the end. Land from the arc set up the final 83:73 score.

Russia U18:Vladimir Pichkurov 24, Sergey Palkin 19, Andrey Semenov 11
Germany U18:Maik Zirbes 19, Maurice Stuckey 13

Russian U18 National Team 2008 - by Eurobasket
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Slepukha


Palkin


Murychev


Pichkurov


Valiev
4 Kirill Slepukha (180-G-90) of Triumph-2 Lyubertsy
5 Sergey Palkin (191-G-90) of CSKA-Trinta Moscow
6 Teymuraz Babunashvili (186-G-90) of BC Khimky-2 Moscow reg.
7 Denis Polokhin (196-G-90) of CSKA-Trinta Moscow
8 Alexey Murychev (203-F/C-90) of Triumph-2 Lyubertsy
9 Vladimir Pichkurov (195-G-90) of Lobnya Moscow reg.
10 Maxim Grigoryev (191-G-90)
11 Andrey Semenov (200-C-90)
12 Pavel Antipov (200-F-91) of CSK VVS-Standart Samara reg.
13 Grigoriy Andreev (195-G/F-90) of Triumph-2 Lyubertsy
14 Andrey Kirdyachkin (204-F/C-90) of NGU Novosybirsk
15 Evgeny Valiev (204-F-90) of Triumph-2 Lyubertsy
Head Coach: Alexey Vadeev
Coach Assistants: Dmitry Shurkin , Alexey Vasilyev

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  SERBIA   


The defending champions bounced back - by Eurobasket News
Serbia U18-Estonia U18 76:41

Serbia being the European champions got the first win in Greece. The second game in Group B saw them thrashing Estonia U18 76:41. Filip Sepa (199-G/F-90) paced all the winners with 19 points. Nenad Grujo (204-F-90) nailed 10, while Dusan Ognjenovic (216-C-91) scored 9. Rain Veideman (190-G-91) posted 9 in defeat, whilst Kristjan Kitsing (201-F/C-90) and Kristjan Penjam (185-G-90) added 8 each.
After Lithuanian Junior Team relied on an accurate shooting and a stifling defense to gain their first win at the European Championship in Greece, Spain looked hungry to revenge. The started with 4 consecutive points over Estonia and then grabbed 11:5 lead. Riznic from the free throw line made it 23:7 for the defending champions. Mitrovic's three game his team 31:15 as Serbia took full responsibility in the first half. Estonia slowly tried to get back into the game and trimmed the deficit to 13 points on a couple of occasions, including Kristjan Penjam's four-point play for a 34:21 scoreline. But Serbia continued to pour it on and led 43:22 at the break.
Stamenkovic opened the second half for the winners as they scored first 5 points in the third period. Mitrovic closed it with a free throw for 62:30 and by that time there were no questions about the winner. In the last one both teams played mostly in defense paying the majority of attention to it. Serbia won the last quarter 14:11 as Dusan Ognjenovic set up the final 76:41 score.

Serbia U18:Filip Sepa 19, Nenad Grujo 10, Dusan Ognjenovic 9
Estonia U18:Rain Veideman 9, Kristjan Kitsing 8, Kristjan Penjam 8

Serbian U18 National Team 2008 - by Eurobasket
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Sepa


Subotic


Milutinovic


Vlahovic


Musli
4 Uros Petrovic (206-F/C-90) of KK Hemofarm Stada Vrsac
5 Filip Sepa (199-G/F-90) of Zemun Lasta
6 Bogdan Riznic (201-G/F-90) of Gimnasia Villa Del Parque (ARG)
7 Bojan Subotic (204-F/C-90) of FMP Zeleznik Beograd
8 Andreja Milutinovic (199-G-90) of FMP Zeleznik Beograd
9 Aleksandar Mitrovic (201-G-90) of BC Mega Aqua Monta Beograd
10 Aleksandar Vlahovic (193-G-90) of BC Partizan Igokea Beograd
11 Nikola Vukasovic (190-G-91) of FMP Zeleznik Beograd
12 Svetozar Stamenkovic (202-F/C-90) of FMP Zeleznik Beograd
13 Nenad Grujo (204-F-90) of BC Mega Aqua Monta Beograd
14 Dusan Ognjenovic (216-C-91) of FMP Zeleznik Beograd
15 Dejan Musli (213-C-91) of FMP Zeleznik Beograd
Head Coach: Miroslav Nikolic
Coach Assistant: Ivan Smiljanic

First defeat of U16 Serbia in Koper - by Dragan Jankovski
Serbian cadets tasted first defeat on tournament in Slovenian city Koper. After win at the opening day, U16 Serbia lost against U16 Russia 63:67. Serbia had not so good performance that it was against Slovenians. Shot percentage remains one of the main problems of this team. As a reminder, on tournament in Russia Serbians struggled a lot with their stroke from behind the arc as well as from the field. It happened once again as Serbia made just 1 of 19 attempts for 3-pts. Russia was much better team from the very beginning taking 12 points lead after first quarter. Serbia woke up in the second period coming on just minus one at the half time. Unfortunately to them Russians had another nice played 10 minutes what was a problem for Serbians as they couldn't make another come-back, especially with above mentioned shot percentages. Djumic once again was the best player in Serbia scoring 16 points while Petar Lambic (193-G-92) followed him netting 12 points. Kolagin led Russians to this win adding 22 points.

Head coach of Serbian U16 NT Dragan Vascanin after the game said: 'With poor shot percentage which we registered in this game we are not able to beat any team. Majority of those shots were wide open but we still couldn't make them. We have to look forward to the game against Czech Republic. It will be important one as Czechs will be one of our first rivals on the upcoming European Championship and victory in this game will mean a lot to us.'


Russia - Serbia 67-63
(26:14, 13:24, 16:10, 12:15)

Russia: Kolagin 22
Serbia: Djumic 16, Petar Lambic 12

CS Otopeni inks Bojan Obradovic - by Zoran Popovic
Bojan Obradovic (206-F/C-77, agency: Beo Basket) will stay in Romania, but he decided to change the club. Obradovic signed contract with CS Otopeni Bucuresti. Last season Obradovic played for CSU Asesoft Ploiesti and in ULEB Cup scored average 11.3 points and 3.4 rebounds per game. Obradovic won National Cup and Romanian championship, also he was MVP of regular season. In his career Obradovic played for many Serbian and European clubs. He started career in Radnicki Beograd 1996-2000 and continue in career in Poland, Russia, France, Belgium, Bulgaria and Romania.

Serbia grabs the second win on tournament in Moscow - by Dragan Jankovski
Serbian senior National Team recorded second win on international tournament in Moscow. At the first day of the tournament Serbia was better than Ukraine 90:56. Players of head coach Dusan Ivkovic took control on Ukrainians at the early beginning. The fact that after first 20 minutes Serbia created advantage of 17 points talks for itself. Nothing has changed during last two quarters so Serbia celebrated in its first friendly game this summer. Branko Cvetkovic (200-G-84) was the best player of the winning team scoring 16 points. Zoran Erceg (211-C/F-85) was behind him adding 12 points while Uros Tripkovic (197-G-86) had 11 points. Stefan Markovic (191-G-88) and Nenad Krstic (213-C-83) followed them netting 9 points each.

In the second game of the tournament, which was played this morning, Serbia made another easy win. This time Serbians were too strong for Latvians 89-74. Serbia had much better first while Latvia improved in the second quarter. The game is decided after the half time when Serbian players netted 26 points for 10 minutes while on the other side Latvia scored just 15. This time Uros Tripkovic was the key player for Serbia netting 15 points. Nenad Krstic followed him with 13 points while new captain of Team Serbia Milos Vujanic (190-G-80) stopped on 12 points and dished out 7 assist. Luka Bogdanovic (206-F-85, agency: Beo Basket) and Novica Velickovic (205-F-86) scored 10 points each.

The last round of tournament in Moscow is scheduled for tomorrow when Serbia will meet Russia.

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  SLOVENIA   


U18 EC, division B: Slovenia makes easy win against Sweden - by Eurobasket News
U18 Slovenia - U18 Sweden 85-63

At the second day of U18 European Championship division B, but at the same time in the first appearance for Slovenians in Hungary, they succeeded to register victory against Sweden. As a reminder Swedish yesterday were better than Bosnia and Herzegovina 74-60 so they dropped on 1-1 in Preliminary Group B.

Slovenia opened the game in style making 14-6 after first 4 minutes. Sweden had a lot of problems at the offensive end committing 6 turnovers. Slovenians exploited those presents extending their lead to 9 points until the end of the first stanza. Luka Snoj (200-F-90) took care for the points in Slovenia so at the middle of the second frame it already was 31-17. Official hosts in this game touched plus 20 close to the half time finishing it later with 44-27. Third quarter didn't bring any news as Dino Muric (198-F/C-90), Marko Vranjkovic (202-F/C-90) and Mirza Sarajlija (183-G-91) dominated in offense leading his team into the last quarter with plus 24. It wasn't such a brilliant day for Swedish as they didn't succeed to be even a small threat until the very end. Slovenia had solid stroke from the filed during the entire time registering 58.1%.

Dino Muric and Mirza Sarajlija (186-G-91) were the key players for Slovenia netting 17 points each. Marko Vranjkovic also showed pretty good performance scoring 11 points and grabbing 9 boards. The losing side got 11 points and 4 rebounds from Omar Zaghden (204-F/C-90). Christopher Czerapowicz (195-G-91) and Niklas Sellin (197-F-91) helped their team with 10 points each. Slovenia will take on Switzerland tomorrow while Sweden has a day-off.


U18 Slovenia - U18 Sweden 85-63
(18-9,26-18,22-15,19-21)

Slovenia: Dino Muric 17, Mirza Sarajlija 17, Marko Vranjkovic 11 (9 rebs)
Sweden: Omar Zaghden 11 (4 rebs), Christopher Czerapowicz 10 (4 rebs), Niklas Sellin 10

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  SPAIN   


Spanish U18 National Team 2008 - by Eurobasket
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Arruti


Perez


Jodar


Jaume


Santana
4 Ander Arruti (189-G-90)
5 Daniel Perez (188-G-90) of AXA F.C. Barcelona
6 Marco Leon (192-G-90) of Kalise Gran Canaria
7 Ignacio Llovet (202-C-91)
8 Alberto Jodar (205-F/C-91) of Fuenlabrada II Madrid
9 Ivan Martinez (193-F-90) of Zarzuela Maristas Boecillo
10 Josep Franch (190-G-91) of DKV Joventut Badalona
11 Alejandro Hernandez (190-G-90) of AXA F.C. Barcelona
12 Toni Jaume (201-C-90)
13 Adrian Laso (204-F/C-90) of Alta Gestion Fuenlabrada Madrid
14 Eduardo Martinez (202-F/G-90) of MMT Estudiantes Madrid 2nd Team
15 Jorge Santana (193-G-90) of Kalise Gran Canaria
Head Coach: Alejandro Martinez
Coach Assistants: Gonzalo Garcia , Alberto Angulo

Spain U18 gets the initial victory - by Eurobasket News
Spain U18-Belgium U18 88:69

Spain U18 got the first win in Group A of European Championship today. With four wins in four quarters the team beat Belgium U18 88:69 and sent them to 0-2. Ivan Martinez (193-F-90) led the winners with 13 points. Toni Jaume (201-C-90) and Ignacio Llovet (202-C-91) followed him with 11 apiece. Lorenzo Giancaterino (190-F-90) top-scored for Belgium with 16 points and Yannick Moray (198-F-91) netted 14.
Belgium opened the game well leading 12:6 midway through the first quarter. Perez brought Spain the lead at 17:16 and then they had 24:19 after one period. Belgium started another quarter better again but Ignacio Llovet tied the score at 25 for both squads. Santana's three closed the first half at 45:36 for the Spanish team. Spain used the three-ball to pull away from Belgium and led 61:43 before going into the fourth quarter ahead 65:47. Trailing 70:51 Belgium however produced 9-0 run to cut to 70:60. That was all they could do with more than 5 minutes in the game. Spain pushed the tempo and increased the score on the board. Last four points in the game belonged to them as Gonzalez made a lay-up and a jump shot.

Spain U18:Ivan Martinez 13, Toni Jaume 11, Ignacio Llovet 11
Belgium U18:Lorenzo Giancaterino 16, Yannick Moray 14

Spanish NT blasts Argentina in friendly game - by Natxo Mendaza
Argentina couldn't bounce back from it's previous loss against Spanish NT and lost again in Ourense by 87-62. The 25-point difference didn't show the real difference between two teams tonight, as the guests stayed into the game for almost 30 minutes. Despite of a good beginning (4-8), Argentina couldn't stop Spanish perimeter players, as Jose Manuel Calderon (190-G-81), Navarro, Berni and Rubio combined for 53 points overall. At halftime, Spain was leading by 9 points (44-35), and that difference became steady for almost the whole third quarter. The game was tough sometimes because of both teams played with big heart and intensity, but Argentina struggled to keep calmed when they were called for some controversial fouls. As such, they got several techincal fouls that definitely broke the game in the last period, as Spain took advantage of that to increase the final difference thanks to a nice shooting streak from the three point line.


SPAIN: Jose Manuel Calderon (15), Rudy Fernandez (3), Mumbr (2), Felipe Reyes (7), Marc Gasol (4) --starting five-- Berni Rodriguez (11), Lpez (5), Garbajosa (4), Pau Gasol (5), Navarro (16), Rubio (11), Jimnez (4).

ARGENTINA: Porta (0), Delfino (15), Nocioni (12), Oberto (3), Scola (7) --starting five-- Quinteros (10), Gonzlez (0), Prigioni (7), L.Gutirrez (3), J.Gutirrez (0), Ginobili (5)

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  SWEDEN   


U18 EC, division B: Slovenia makes easy win against Sweden - by Eurobasket News
U18 Slovenia - U18 Sweden 85-63

At the second day of U18 European Championship division B, but at the same time in the first appearance for Slovenians in Hungary, they succeeded to register victory against Sweden. As a reminder Swedish yesterday were better than Bosnia and Herzegovina 74-60 so they dropped on 1-1 in Preliminary Group B.

Slovenia opened the game in style making 14-6 after first 4 minutes. Sweden had a lot of problems at the offensive end committing 6 turnovers. Slovenians exploited those presents extending their lead to 9 points until the end of the first stanza. Luka Snoj (200-F-90) took care for the points in Slovenia so at the middle of the second frame it already was 31-17. Official hosts in this game touched plus 20 close to the half time finishing it later with 44-27. Third quarter didn't bring any news as Dino Muric (198-F/C-90), Marko Vranjkovic (202-F/C-90) and Mirza Sarajlija (183-G-91) dominated in offense leading his team into the last quarter with plus 24. It wasn't such a brilliant day for Swedish as they didn't succeed to be even a small threat until the very end. Slovenia had solid stroke from the filed during the entire time registering 58.1%.

Dino Muric and Mirza Sarajlija (186-G-91) were the key players for Slovenia netting 17 points each. Marko Vranjkovic also showed pretty good performance scoring 11 points and grabbing 9 boards. The losing side got 11 points and 4 rebounds from Omar Zaghden (204-F/C-90). Christopher Czerapowicz (195-G-91) and Niklas Sellin (197-F-91) helped their team with 10 points each. Slovenia will take on Switzerland tomorrow while Sweden has a day-off.


U18 Slovenia - U18 Sweden 85-63
(18-9,26-18,22-15,19-21)

Slovenia: Dino Muric 17, Mirza Sarajlija 17, Marko Vranjkovic 11 (9 rebs)
Sweden: Omar Zaghden 11 (4 rebs), Christopher Czerapowicz 10 (4 rebs), Niklas Sellin 10

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  SWITZERLAND   


U18 EC, division B: Switzerland grabs win against Ireland - by Eurobasket News
U18 Switzerland - U18 Ireland 72-68

At the opening day of U18 European Championship division B Switzerland beat Ireland thanks to well played last quarter. Thus Switzerland is currently on top of Preliminary Group B together with Sweden while Ireland and Bosnia and Herzegovina opened championship suffering defeat. The only team from Group B which had a day-off yesterday was Slovenia.

It was not a perfect beginning for Swiss as they had minus 6 after the first 10 minutes. Ireland continued to play even better in the next stanza and mostly owing to Daniel James (193-F-90) and Tumon grabbed 21-30 in 14th minute. Two minutes later, after free throw by Daniel James, Irish touched plus 10 for the first time in this game. Switzerland was hopeless during this quarter while on the other side o'Sullivan woke up brining 11 points lead for his team at the half time. It is almost unexplainable how Irish succeeded to loose this game as they had 36-51 at the middle of third stanza. However until the end of it Swiss made 13-5 run coming closer before the crucial ten minutes. Ian Savoy (187-G-90) and Kevin Bovet (196-F-82) stepped up for Switzerland making another 16-7 run and tying the score on 68-68. During the last minute Ireland committed two turnovers and missed one shot while Ian Savoy added 4 points for his team.

Switzerland got 17 points and 6 rebounds from Jonathan Kazadi (188-G-91) while hero of the game Ian Savoy netted 17 points. Kevin Bovet followed these two players with 10 points. Daniel James added 16 points and 7 rebounds for Ireland. O'Sullivan finished the game with 11 points while Conor James (188-G-90) had one points less than him. Switzerland will meet Bosnia and Herzegovina today while Ireland has a day-off.


U18 Switzerland - U18 Ireland 72-68
(17-23,11-16,21-17,23-12)

Switzerland: Jonathan Kazadi 17 (6 rebs), Ian Savoy 17, Kevin Bovet 10
Ireland: Daniel James 16 (7 rebs), O'Sullivan 11, Conor James 10

U18 EC, division B: Switzerland outplays Bosnia for 2-0 - by Eurobasket News
U18 Bosnia and Herzegovina - U18 Switzerland 69-75

After victory in the first round against Ireland, Switzerland took care for another one. This time Switzerland was a way better than Bosnia and Herzegovina improving score to 2-0 in Preliminary Group B. On the other side Bosnians are still winless on U18 European Championship division B after two days.

Bosnia showed better performance just during the first couple of minutes. After 9-5, Switzerland made fantastic 19-2 run and thanks to Brian Savoy grabbed 13 points lead with three minutes remaining in the first frame. It was basket after basket game since that moment. Switzerland kept bigger lead without any problems until the 28th minute when Bosnians made mini 5-1 run entering into the second half with minus 6. After the breather, Brian Savoy and Ian Savoy (187-G-90) stepped up and with couple of successful jump shots as well as lay-ups resolved question about the winner setting the score on 35-50. Until the end of the game Swiss players confidently kept lead despite Bosnians played a bit better in the last stanza. Interesting is that Bosnians had just 5.6% for 3-pts making only 1 of 18 attempts.

Brian Savoy paced Swiss to win today with 20 points and 4 rebounds. Ian Savoy followed him with 16 points while Stefan Petkovic had 14 points. Miralem Halilovic (202-F-91), who added 13 points and 11 rebounds, was the best in Bosnia. The losing side also got 11 points separately from Gak and Eldin Camdzic (195-G-90). Next Switzerland's rival on U18 European Championship is Slovenia while Bosnians will take on Ireland.


U18 Bosnia and Herzegovina - U18 Switzerland 69-75
(18-28,11-7,20-26,20-14)

Bosnia: Miralem Halilovic 13 (11 rebs), Gak 11, Eldin Camdzic 11
Switzerland: Brian Savoy 20 (4 rebs), Ian Savoy 16, Stefan Petkovic 14

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  TRINIDAD AND TOBAGO   


Millennium camp opens - by Don Farrell
BOYS and girls age eight to 18 have a chance to improve their skills at this years seventh edition of the Millennium Basketball Academy Skills Development Camp.

The camp will again be conducted at the Maloney Indoor Sporting Arena, Maloney Gardens from Monday between 8 am and 4 pm.

According to recently inducted Hall of Famer Joseph Lenny Guy, apart from the local coaches, two top United States basketball men will be here to put the youngsters through their paces.

Brian McCormick who is California-based and who coaches youth, high school and college players and Lawrence Mann, founder of Top Achievers Foundation, Plano, Texas, are the foreign coaches.

Once again, coach Albert Lee Young is director of the camp, a position he has held since inception.

Guy is the technical director while other coaches will be ex-national skipper Anthony Tannis, Peter Lewis, Ronald Sylvester and Rhonda John-Davis.

On the final day of the camp there will be an All Star game and awards will be handed out to the young basketballers.

Uniforms and registration are free while all will be afforded certificates of participation.

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  TURKEY   


Turkish market round up - by Sinan Can
TURKISH market is getting hotter in transfer season. Antalya Buyuksehir Belediyespor has announced the official agreement with Marcus Melvin (203-F-82, agency: Strategic Sports, college: N.Carolina St.). Antalya team is already in touch with Mike Green (185-G-85, college: Towson). It's been rumoured that the young point guard will visit Antalya first and make a decision to sign after that. After Chris Lofton move, Mersin Buyuksehir Belediyespor has engaged with Bo McCalebb (183-G-85). It's the second foreigner transfer of the Mersin side who are in a search for an athletic power forward to replace James Peters who has signed with South Korean team . Kepez Bld inked one year contract with Bosnian player Edin Bavcic (210-F/C-84, agency: Beo Basket). Bavcic who has drafted by Toronto Raptors on 2006 NBA Drafet has played for Bosna ASA Sarajevo last season.

Turkey U18 remains undefeated sending Latvia to 0-2 - by Eurobasket News
Turkey U18 -Latvia U18 71:68

Turkey U18 improved to 2-0 in Group D of U18 European Championship for Men. In the second game the team overcame Latvia U18 71:68. Volkan Incekara (192-G-90) and Melih Mahmutoglu (192-G-90) combined for five foul shots in the final seconds to remain his team undefeated at the tournament. Enes Kanter (205-C-92) led the winners with 18 point and 11 rebounds. Melih Mahmutoglu netted 15, while Volkan Incekara scored 13. Girts Celms (182-G-90) ended up with 14 in defeat, while Kristers Zeidaks (202-F-90) collected 12 points and 9 rebounds.
In the beginning of the game it was a tough start and both teams stayed close at 7:7. Turkey then went on 10-0 run, but Latvia reduced to 26:22 by the end of the opening quarter. Even though Latvia won the second period 21:19 Turkey lead 45:43 at the break as Deniz Kilicli came off the bench for back-to-back basket.
It was Latvia to score first six points in the third quarter and to take the control of it. Turkey remained scoreless until the middle of the period. Enes Kanter scored some baskets and Kilicli's foul shots pushed Taner Gonay's side ahead 53:52. Osins made it 57:54 as the teams finished the third period. In a tough quarter the game remained interesting until the last seconds. Volkan Incekara and Melih Mahmutoglu combined for five foul shots in the final seconds to remain his team undefeated at the tournament.

Turkey U18:Enes Kanter 18+11 rebs, Melih Mahmutoglu 15, Volkan Incekara 13
Latvia U18:Girts Celms 14, Kristers Zeidaks 12+9 rebs

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  U.S. VIRGIN ISLANDS   


Jam Squad beats Jah Youths to knot ABA title series at 1-1 - by David Edole
ST. THOMAS - Jam Squad evened the score on Friday night as they defeated Jah Youths, 75-70, to tie the ABA Men's Summer Basketball League best-of-five championship series at 1-1.

Jam Squad came out hot at the Bertha C. Boschulte Middle School gymnasium, powering to an early but short-lived nine-point lead. Jah Youths fired right back to even the score at 13 with just a minute to play in the quarter.

The score stayed close until a 9-1 lead fueled by two 3-pointers by Akil Lewis (183-G-82, college: Lynn) gave Jam Squad the first significant lead of the game.

They closed out the first half on top, 31-36.

Jam Squad really opened up their lead in the third quarter. Again, Lewis was on from 3-point range and from inside the arc as he led the team on a 18-5 run that lasted until four minutes remained in the third quarter.

Then, trailing by nearly 20 points, Jah Youths charged back into the game with high-energy play that stopped the Jam Squad scoring machine cold.

'Any time you lead by that much - 15, 16, 17 points - you have to match their intensity,' said Jam Squad Coach Jojo Gumbs. 'I've been telling the guys, they have to stay focused and determined and that will never happen.'

While Jam Squad tried to slow the pace with a shrinking 12-point lead in the beginning of the fourth quarter, Jah Youth picked it up. With frantic play from the guards, Jah Youth soon had pulled within 10.

Then, Jam Squad's big man, Devon Louis, fouled out with about five minutes to play having already pulled down 12 rebounds.

'That changed the composure of the game,' Gumbs said.

A suddenly undersized Jam Squad battled to protect their lead while Jah Youth ruled the boards. Jah Youth closed the game to three points with a minute to play but were unable to close the final gap.

Lewis led Jam Squad scoring with 27 points and Calvert White (191-G/F-75, college: SE Missouri St.) added 16 points with eight rebounds and eight assists.

Jeff Roberts (202-F/C-77, college: Spoon River JC) scored 14 points with 17 rebounds for Jah Youth. Jabahri Brown (209-F/C-79, college: Oklahoma) added 24 points with 14 rebounds and Zachary Coffelt scored 12 points.

The series continues at 7:30 tonight. Games also are scheduled for 7:30 p.m. Tuesday and Thursday if necessary.

By SEAN McCOY

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  UBL   


Stars Outshine Wranglers in OT, 132-128 - by Mac Claire

Addison, TX - There has been an unexpected twist already today.

The Texas Wranglers with a home court advantage fell in overtime to the Central Texas Stars, 132-128.

The Wranglers had a 60-43 advantge at the half and the expectation certainly had to be that they would be waiting to play either San Antonio or Arkansas, the Game #2 contestants. But the Stars climbed back to within 111-108 with just over 3::00 in the 4th.

The Stars will now scout the Soul and Warriors as they prepare to face the winner in the UBL Championship Final.

Below is the rest of the day's playoff schedule:

GAME #2 SAN ANTONIO VS ARKANSAS Underway
GAME #3 MISSOURI VS CAPITAL CITY 3:00 PM
GAME #4 DALLAS VS TENNESSEE (NON-UBL) 4:30 PM
GAME #5 LOSER OF GAME #1 LOSER OF GAME # 2 6:00 PM

GAME #6 UBL CHAMPIONSHIP FINAL 8:00 PM

For more info go to www.love4hoops.com and www.ublhoops.proboards102.com.



Soul Show They Belong, Eliminate Warriors, 97-91 - by Mac Claire

Addison, TX - The San Antonio Soul, a replacement playoff team proved that they deserved to be a post-season participant and not a spectator on the sidelines. They beat the Arkansas Warriors, 97-91 to earn the right to play the Central Texas Stars in the UBL Championship Game tonight. The Stars upset the Texas Wranglers earlier in the day, 132-128. The mighty have fallen.

A small group believed that the Soul never did deserve to be in position to play for a championship, and perhaps they were grudgingly invited to play after being told they were the fifth place team in a four team playoff. The Hoopsters couldn't play though, and that left a void which the Soul filled.


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  UKRAINE   


Ukrainian U18 National Team 2008 - by Eurobasket
#s#
#e#6


Lypovyy


Lebedintsev


Dmytrenko


Otverchenko


Sandul
4 Pavlo Burenko (188-G-90) of SK Adzhalyk Yuzhny
5 Gennadiy Dzyuba (182-G-91)
6 Igor Dobrikov (191-G/F-90) of BC Kyiv-2-KPI
7 Oleksandr Lypovyy (198-G-91) of BC Kyiv-2-KPI
8 Andriy Lebedintsev (194-G-91)
9 Igor Zaytsev (201-F-90) of Dnipro Dnepropetrovsk
10 Roman Dmytrenko (200-F-90) of BC Kyiv-2-KPI
11 Ruslan Otverchenko (192-F-90) of BC Kyiv-2-KPI
12 Igor Chumakov (205-C-90)
13 Oleksandr Gudkov (201-F-90) of Khimik-2 Yuzhniy
14 Oleksandr Osnach (202-C-90)
15 Maksym Sandul (205-C-91) of BC Kyiv-2-KPI
Head Coach: Oleg Ruban
Coach Assistant: Igor Chernogritskiy

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  UNITED KINGDOM   


U18 EC, division B: England cruises past Portugal for the first win - by Eurobasket News
U18 Portugal - U18 England 69-82

England beat Portugal in the second day of U18 European Championship in Hungary improving its score in preliminary Group C to 1-1. Portuguese couldn't handle Neighbour, who demonstrated fantastic performance leading his team to first win in Debrecin. At the same time Portugal struggled a lot with its 3-point shots as well as with rebounding. England finished the game grabbing 16 boards more than its rival.

Beginning of the game belonged to England. After triple by Lawrence, they made 6-10 and later increased it to 6-12. England could make even bigger lead in the second stanza but Portuguese showed some of their qualities. Valente and Rodrigues made few shots stopping England on their way. However, slightly better performance of Portuguese at the middle of the second quarter didn't help them as England finished it later 14-16. Portugal had a nice chance for a turn after the breather as its players succeeded to equalize on 39-39 but after that moment they somehow stopped playing. England took control on them making crucial 14-2 run. Everything what Portugal done until the end was just minus 6 but nothing more than that.

Neighbour was a clutch player of the game for England registering excellent 26 points and 14 rebounds. Lawrence also shined adding 13 points, 6 rebounds and 8 assists while Michael Manghum (175-G-91) had 12 points. Portugal got 17 points and 8 rebounds from Rodrigues while Valente posted 14 points including 4 boards. Diogo Correia (185-G-90) stopped on 11 points. Portugal will try to beat Belarus tomorrow while England will take a rest.


U18 Portugal - U18 England 69-82
(15-18,14-16,20-25,20-23)

Portugal: Rodrigues 17 (8 rebs), Valente 14 (4 rebs), Diogo Correia 11
England: Neighbour 26 (14 rebs), Lawrence 13 (6 rebs, 8 as), Michael Manghum 12

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  URUGUAY   


Nacional and Verdirrojo looking for the promotion - by Hector Lopez
Nacional, with 16 points and 8 rebounds from Marcelo Correa (208-C-77, college: San Diego St.), beat Verdirrojo 82-76 to take a 1-0 lead in the Metropolitan semifinal best-of-three games for one promotion to the Uruguayan League.
For Verdirrojo Cam-Ron Clay (203-F) netted 8 points and grabbed 9 rebounds. The other semifinal serie will be played by Aguada and Goes. Capurro already clinched a promotion for the LUB during the regular season.

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  VENEZUELA   


Liga Nacional de Baloncesto (LNB) will start on August 21st - by Francisco Vega

Barquisimeto, Venezuela.- Liga Nacional de Baloncesto 2008 will start on August 21st and will be played by eight teams, including four returning teams of the 2007 edition, two franchises that had been absent of the league for a few seasons and two brand new expansion franchises.

The LNB 2007 champions, Pescadores de Sucre, decided to move from Cumana and will now play in Cojedes state, as they've decided to change their name to Centauros de Cojedes. The other returning teams are Duros de Lara, Graneros de Portuguesa and Estudiantes de Guarico.

The new franchises are Petroleros de Falcon, based in the city of Coro and Caciques de Trujillo, based in the city of Valera. Meanwhile, Centauros de Apure and Tiburones de Vargas are the two existing organizations who had taken a long break and now have decided to rejoin the league. Centauros de Apure had last played in the league back in 2003, while Tiburones de Vargas took only one year off and last played in 2006.

Existing organizations who've decided not to take part in the 2008 edition of LNB include the powerful Delfines de Miranda and Macizos de Guayana, alongside Lideres de Yaracuy and Warao de Tucupita. Their players will have to undergo a draft process in which the expansion teams will have advantage to pick first during the first three rounds next August 13th

Duros to start preseason

The General Manager of Duros de Lara, former player Armando Becker (196-G-66), declared to Diario EL IMPULSO of Barquisimeto that the team will start its preseason on August 1st at Napoleon Rodriguez Gymnasium and their first regular season games will be a two-game series at home against newcomers Caciques de Trujillo. Duros won the championship back in 1992 when the LNB was divided into different geographic zones and groups whose champions would face each other later on and that was known as Superior League.

'We had a meeting in Caracas and we agreed to begin the season next August 21st. We'll do a spectacle on the 13th to announce the draft picks and there will be a press conference on the 14th. Among the things we discussed there's a salary limit for the players', Becker said during the interview.

However, most of the players of contending teams have decided to try out overseas and will not take part in LNB, such as Jose Vargas (196-G/F-82), Axiers Sucre (198-F-78), Hernan Salcedo (198-F-80), Tomas Aguilera (198-F-77), Alejandro Barrios (205-F-79), Luis Bethelmi (200-C-86) or Pedro Brito (202-F/C-82). Sucre and Cedeno will go to Argentina and the rest will play in Mexico.

FIRST REGULAR SEASON GAMES

(Thursday August 21st, Friday August 22nd)

Thu - Centauros de Cojedes vs Tiburones de Vargas in Tinaquillo, Cojedes (7.30pm)
Fri - Centauros de Cojedes vs Tiburones de Vargas in Tinaquillo, Cojedes (7.30 pm)
Fri - Duros de Lara vs Caciques de Trujillo in Barquisimeto, Lara (8.00pm)
Fri - Graneros de Portuguesa vs Petroleros de Falcon in Guanare, Portuguesa (7.30pm)
Fri - Estudiantes de Guarico vs Centauros de Apure in San Juan de de los Morros, Guarico (7.30pm)





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Women News

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  ARGENTINA - Women  


Canada U18 improves to 2-1 record with win over Argentina - by Eurobasket News
Argentina U18 - Canada U18 53:72

Canadian Juniors made a huge step towards the U19 World Championship to be held next year in Thailand. Yesterday they defeated hosting Argentina at the U18 FIBA Americas Championship to improve to 2-1 record and strengthened their chances of claiming one of the four top spots that would automatically mean their qualification to the World event. Argentina meanwhile suffered the second straight loss and fell to 1-2 record. They will clash with Venezuela in a key game for both teams at the tournament. Argentina got to a better start to the game as they established an 18:14 lead after the starting frame. But Canada dominated the second stanza and easily gained a 36:28 advantage going into the locker room. Argentina burst out early in the third period to retain the advantage but an 8:0 rally from Canada iced the effort. The North American team took over and stretched the margin to as many as 15 points before the fourth term. Argentina scored just 10 points in the fourth quarter and failed to threaten Canadas lead. Kayla Alexander (195-F/C-91) poured in 18 points to lead Canada. Taryn Wicijowski (188-F/C) notched 14 points and 7 boards, while Elyse Jobin (180-G-90) had 12 points in a winning effort. Debora Gonzalez (170-G-90) answered with 12 points for Argentina. Agostina Burrani (188-C-90) and Macarena Rosset (178-F-90) had 8 points apiece in defeat. Canada pulled down 47 rebounds including 14 offensive ones and shot solid 48% from the field.

Argentina U18: Debora Gonzalez 12, Agostina Burrani 8, Macarena Rosset 8
Canada U18: Kayla Alexander 18, Taryn Wicijowski 14, Elyse Jobin 12

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  BELARUS - Women  


Poland outscores Belarus in exhibition encounter - by Eurobasket News
Poland - Belarus 87:71

Polish National Team opened the international exhibition Geispolsheim tournament with win over Belarus. The teams are due to meet with France and Canada at the event. The teams entered the game with full speed and exchanged the baskets in the starting frame. Poland was just more accurate at the end and accumulated a 24:21 advantage. Polish offense was merely unstoppable in the second term as it notched 29 points and Polish team cleared off to a 53:34 distance at halftime. However Belarus showed they are in the game just yet. Katsiaryna Snytsina (188-G?F-85) and Nataliya Trafimava (186-F-79) fueled comeback effort from Belarusian team as they outscored Poland in the third stanza. The gap was narrowed to 11 points heading into the final period and the intrigue was revived. But Polish team did not allow Belarus to capitalize. They raised the tempo in the fourth quarter restored a cozy cushion to breeze to the win at the end. Ewelina Kobryn (193-C-82) notched 16 points to pace Polish team. Daria Mieloszynska (188-F-83, college: Texas) scored 14 points, while Agnieszka Bibrzycka (184-F/G-82, college: Abil.Christian) added 11 points for the winners. Katsiaryna Snytsina and Nataliya Trafimava had 12 points apiece for Belarus. Anastasiya Verameyenka (191-F/C-87) contributed 10 points in defeat. The teams were equally matched on the boards with 33 caroms apiece. Poland in the meantime forced their opponents to as many as 24 turnovers down the stretch.

Poland: Ewelina Kobryn 16, Daria Mieloszynska 14, Agnieszka Bibrzycka 11
Belarus: Katsiaryna Snytsina 12, Nataliya Trafimava 12

Belarus secures Division A spot at the U18 European Championship - by Eurobasket News
Belarus U18 - Croatia U18 73:61

Belarusian U18 National Team ensured their Division A birth in the next season. They defeated Croatia in todays game at the classification round of the European Championship and sent their opponents to Division B. Croatia led for the major part of the first period before Maryia Filonchyk (187-F-92) netted a three-pointer to give Belarus a 21:19 advantage at the first intermission. The lead changed hands for a couple of times in the second period but Belarus secured a 44:40 lead at the interval. Belarus began the second half with a 7:0 rally to grab an 11-point lead. Mia Carapina (190-F-90) and Buzov struck back late in the frame and cut the deficit to 5 points with one quarter to go. Mia Carapina, Lenka Kusic (183-F/C-90) and Carmen Miloglav (172-G-91) dragged Croatia within one point from their opponents early in the fourth term. But Aliaksandra Zubrytskaya (172-G-90) notched 5 points in the dying minutes of the game to fuel an 11:0 outburst and Belarus sealed the victory at the end. Aliaksandra Zubrytskaya and Karalina Padshyvalava (164-G-92) scored 12 points apiece to pace Belarus. Maryia Filonchyk had 10 points and 7 rebounds for the winners. Tomica Bacic (182-F-90) responded with 19 points for Croatia. Mia Carapina had 18 points and 8 rebounds in defeat. Belarus outrebounded Croatia 40:38 and forced their opponents 26 turnovers. Croatia shot 36% from the field, while Belarus replied with 43% accuracy.

Belarus U18: Aliaksandra Zubrytskaya 12+11 boards, Karalina Padshyvalava 12, Maryia Filonchyk 10
Croatia U18: Tomica Bacic 19, Mia Carapina 18

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  BELGIUM - Women  


Wauters reaches the top place in the Western Conference - by Eurobasket News
Ann Wauters (194-C-80) is now 17-9 with her San Antonio in WNBA, which is the best result in the Western Conference. In the latest game she nailed 15 points and made 5 rebounds in a 68:78 loss from the Lynx. Seimone Augustus scored 20 points, Lindsey Harding added a season-high 13 and the Minnesota Lynx beat the San Antonio Silver Stars on Friday night.
A day before that the San Antonio Silver Stars defeated the Chicago Sky 78:67 on Thursday. San Antonio is 12-2 at home which is a good result in the league.
The Sky had won three of their last five heading into the game. After San Antonio had led by as many as 14 points in the first half, Chicago got within two points when Brooke Wyckoff hit a 3-pointer 1:54 into the second half. Ann Wauters collected 8 points and 8 rebounds in a win.
On July 19th Seimone Augustus made 11 straight shots from the floor and finished with a season-high 30 points to lead the Minnesota Lynx to an 87:74 victory over the San Antonio Silver Stars.The Silver Stars cut it to six points when Ann Wauters scored inside and made a free throw when she was fouled by Vanessa Hayden-Johnson, who scored 10 points. Belgian center had 18 and 6 rebounds for the Stars.

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  BRAZIL - Women  


Erika DeSouza played her first game for Atlanta since breaking her leg - by Eurobasket News
Erika De souza played her first game for Atlanta since breaking her leg on May 27. She finished with 6 points and 4 rebounds in nearly 13 minutes in the court. Atlanta lost to Washington 75:81 as the latter have won two of three since Jessie Kenlaw was named interim coach after the firing of Tree Rollins last week. The expansion Dream have lost four straight, dropping the WNBA's worst record to 3-23.
Another Brazilian in the team Iziane Iziane Castro (183-G/F-82) scored 23 points for Atlanta. It was an outstanding game from the Brazilian player and from now on Atlanta will have help from both of them.
On July 22 the Sacramento Monarchs to their fifth straight victory, a 79:66 win over the Atlanta Dream. The Monarchs converted 19 Dream turnovers into 21 points. Atlanta's Betty Lennox, who averages 18 points, scored one point and attempted just one field goal. Iziane Castro had 13 points, 6 rebounds and 3 assists.
Phoenix Mercury past the Atlanta Dream 110:84 on Saturday night.Iziane Castro posted 17 for the Dream, who have lost four of five after getting the franchise's first wins. The Mercury went on a 14-2 run to end the first quarter to take a 29-13 advantage after the first 10 minutes. Atlanta missed 14 of its first 20 shots and 24 of 37 in the first half as Phoenix took a 51-37 lead at the break. Atlanta shot just 26-of-78 from the field, including 4-of-23 from beyond the arc.

Brazil gains speed at the U18 FIBA Americas Championship - by Eurobasket News
Brazil U18 - Venezuela U18 89:76

Brazilian Junior National Team earned their second straight loss in Argentina. Yesterday they handled Venezuela to improve to 2-1 record and stepped closer to achieving the main goal getting into top 4 teams that would qualify for U19 World Championship to be held next year. Patricia Teixeira (177-G/F-90) came up with arguably the best performance at the competition so far to pace Brazil. She tallied 37 points, 6 assists and 3 boards and Brazil dominated the game. They opened the game confidently and marked their lead early on. The gap grew to 9 points at the first intermission but Brazil never stopped. They continued to raise the tempo and ensured a 16-point advantage at the interval. Venezuela struggled defensively and found themselves trailing by 19 points before the fourth stanza. Finally Brazil switched to a lower gear in the fourth period and allowed Venezuela to cut the distance at the end. Tassia Pereira (175-G-92) produced 19 points and 9 boards for Brazil. Cristiane Simoes (192-F/C-91) had 14 points and 12 boards for the winners. Roselis Silva (-G-90) answered with 20 points and 8 boards for Venezuela. Cleider Blanco (-C-90) netted 17 points in a losing case. Brazil outrebounded their opponents 46:25 and shot solid 56% from the field. Brazil will face the undefeated USA today. Venezuela will oppose hosting Argentina in another todays game.

Brazil U18: Patricia Teixeira 37, Tassia Pereira 19, Cristiane Simoes 14+12 boards
Venezuela U18: Roselis Silva 20, Cleider Blanco 17

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  BULGARIA - Women  


Turkey cruises past Bulgaria in Nitra - by Eurobasket News
Turkey U18 - Bulgaria U18 87:57

Turkish U18 National Team scored a confident win over Bulgaria today. The win means Turkey will play against Sweden for the 9th spot tomorrow. Turkey dominated throughout the contest and easily secured the winning outcome at the end. Bulgaria tried to stay close in the opening frame and trailed by just one points ten minutes into the game 14:15. However Ozge Yavas (169-G-91) nailed two treys and Gamze Takmaz (182-F-91) opened another at the start of the second stanza and Turkey gained a 24:14 advantage. Turkey maintained the margin and Turkey led 36:27 at halftime. Bulgaria trimmed the gap to 8 points in the third stanza but it was as close as they could get. Esra Ural (197-C-91) and Ilkan Karaman (205-F-90) capped the period with 5 points and Turkey enjoyed a 58:45 lead. Turkey tipped off the final stanza with a 6:0 run and never looked back again. Tugce Canitez (188-F-90) paced the winners with 14 points and 17 boards. Ozge Yavas had 14 points, while Gamze Takmaz added 13 points for Turkey. Stanislava Stankova (168-G-90) netted 14 points for Bulgaria. Violina Kocheva (176-F-91) contributed 11 points in a losing case. Bulgarian team will play for the 11th overall spot against Ukraine tomorrow.

Turkey U18: Tugce Canitez 14+17 boards, Ozge Yavas 14, Gamze Takmaz 13
Bulgaria U18: Stanislava Stankova 14, Violina Kocheva 11

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  CANADA - Women  


Canada U18 improves to 2-1 record with win over Argentina - by Eurobasket News
Argentina U18 - Canada U18 53:72

Canadian Juniors made a huge step towards the U19 World Championship to be held next year in Thailand. Yesterday they defeated hosting Argentina at the U18 FIBA Americas Championship to improve to 2-1 record and strengthened their chances of claiming one of the four top spots that would automatically mean their qualification to the World event. Argentina meanwhile suffered the second straight loss and fell to 1-2 record. They will clash with Venezuela in a key game for both teams at the tournament. Argentina got to a better start to the game as they established an 18:14 lead after the starting frame. But Canada dominated the second stanza and easily gained a 36:28 advantage going into the locker room. Argentina burst out early in the third period to retain the advantage but an 8:0 rally from Canada iced the effort. The North American team took over and stretched the margin to as many as 15 points before the fourth term. Argentina scored just 10 points in the fourth quarter and failed to threaten Canadas lead. Kayla Alexander (195-F/C-91) poured in 18 points to lead Canada. Taryn Wicijowski (188-F/C) notched 14 points and 7 boards, while Elyse Jobin (180-G-90) had 12 points in a winning effort. Debora Gonzalez (170-G-90) answered with 12 points for Argentina. Agostina Burrani (188-C-90) and Macarena Rosset (178-F-90) had 8 points apiece in defeat. Canada pulled down 47 rebounds including 14 offensive ones and shot solid 48% from the field.

Argentina U18: Debora Gonzalez 12, Agostina Burrani 8, Macarena Rosset 8
Canada U18: Kayla Alexander 18, Taryn Wicijowski 14, Elyse Jobin 12

French National Team beats Canada in Geispolsheim Tournament opener - by Eurobasket News
France - Canada 69:49

French National Team scored a comfortable victory over Canada in the Geispolsheim International Tournament opener. France hosts the event that features also Poland and Belarus. Les Bleus looked confident from the start and piled up an 8:3 lead early on. Canada cut the deficit to a single points at one point in the first period but France persisted. Emmanuelle Hermouet (184-F-80) scored 5 points and the hosts enjoyed a 17:12 lead after ten minutes of action. The teams traded baskets early in the second frame and Canada even managed to come within 3 points from the home side. But France spurred ahead to build a 12-point cushion at halftime. French side stretched the margin to 18 points five minutes into the third stanza. Canada closed the frame on a 10:5 rally to shave the deficit a bit. Les Blues however kept Canada at a safe distance throughout the fourth term and pulled away with the victory at the end. Emmanuelle Hermouet and Isabelle Yacoubou (195-C-86) scored 13 points apiece for France. Fatimatou Sacko (185-F-85) added 10 points for the winners. Teresa Gabriele (165-G-79) answered with 13 points for Canada. Alisha Tatham (180-G/F-86) and Kelsey Adrian (185-G/F-89, college: Oregon) had 6 points apiece in a loss. Canada outrebounded the hosts 37:30 but sank just 31% from the field. French players converted 46% of field goals.

France: Emmanuelle Hermouet 13, Isabelle Yacoubou 13, Fatimatou Sacko 10
Canada: Teresa Gabriele 13, Alisha Tatham 6, Kelsey Adrian 6

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  CROATIA - Women  


Belarus secures Division A spot at the U18 European Championship - by Eurobasket News
Belarus U18 - Croatia U18 73:61

Belarusian U18 National Team ensured their Division A birth in the next season. They defeated Croatia in todays game at the classification round of the European Championship and sent their opponents to Division B. Croatia led for the major part of the first period before Maryia Filonchyk (187-F-92) netted a three-pointer to give Belarus a 21:19 advantage at the first intermission. The lead changed hands for a couple of times in the second period but Belarus secured a 44:40 lead at the interval. Belarus began the second half with a 7:0 rally to grab an 11-point lead. Mia Carapina (190-F-90) and Buzov struck back late in the frame and cut the deficit to 5 points with one quarter to go. Mia Carapina, Lenka Kusic (183-F/C-90) and Carmen Miloglav (172-G-91) dragged Croatia within one point from their opponents early in the fourth term. But Aliaksandra Zubrytskaya (172-G-90) notched 5 points in the dying minutes of the game to fuel an 11:0 outburst and Belarus sealed the victory at the end. Aliaksandra Zubrytskaya and Karalina Padshyvalava (164-G-92) scored 12 points apiece to pace Belarus. Maryia Filonchyk had 10 points and 7 rebounds for the winners. Tomica Bacic (182-F-90) responded with 19 points for Croatia. Mia Carapina had 18 points and 8 rebounds in defeat. Belarus outrebounded Croatia 40:38 and forced their opponents 26 turnovers. Croatia shot 36% from the field, while Belarus replied with 43% accuracy.

Belarus U18: Aliaksandra Zubrytskaya 12+11 boards, Karalina Padshyvalava 12, Maryia Filonchyk 10
Croatia U18: Tomica Bacic 19, Mia Carapina 18

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  CZECH REPUBLIC - Women  


Russia joins Lithuania in U18 European Championship Final - by Eurobasket News
Russia U18 - Czech Republic U18 62:60

Russian Junior National Team celebrated a dramatic victory against Czech Republic in the European Championship semifinal today. Russia thus advanced to the championship game and would face Lithuania in Nitra tomorrow. Tatiana Petrushina (185-F-90) scored go-ahead free throws with 8 seconds remaining to bring Russia to the victory. The game turned into a real seesaw battle as the teams traded baskets early on. Russia earned a 19:12 lead after the starting period however Karolina Elhotova (179-G-92) and Renata Brezinova (189-C-90) quickly cut the deficit at the start of the second term. Liubov Paskalenko (203-C-90) and Anastasiya Loginova (190-C-90) kept Russian team in front throughout the second frame and they accumulated a 35:28 advantage at halftime. Czechs opened the second half with a 9:0 run to surge ahead 37:35. But Russia soon regained the advantage and drove to a 49:43 lead with one quarter to go. Katerina Bartonova (174-G-90) nailed 4 straight points midway through the fourth quarter and Czech Republic squared things up at 54. Soon Karolina Elhotova put Czech team in charge 57:56 with just over 3 minutes left in regulation. Anastasiya Loginova and Renata Brezinova exchanged the baskets before Tatiana Petrushina knotted it all at 60 apiece with 50 seconds to go. Katerina Bartonova missed consecutive attempts to set up a crucial play for Russian team. Karolina Elhotova fouled Tatiana Petrushina and Russian forward won the game. Katerina Bartonova had a chance to save the day for Czech Republic but missed a desperate three-pointer with the time running out. Tatiana Petrushina finished with 16 points and 8 rebounds for Russia. Alexandra Tarasova (192-C-91) netted 14 points and 16 boards, while Anastasiya Loginova added 11 in a win. Renata Brezinova delivered 13 points and 12 boards for Czech Republic. Pavla Svrdlikova (184-F-90) dropped 11 points in defeat.

Russia U18: Tatiana Petrushina 16, Alexandra Tarasova 14+16 boards, Anastasiya Loginova 11
Czech Republic U18: Renata Brezinova 13+12 boards, Pavla Svrdlikova 11

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  FRANCE - Women  


Lithuania rout France to reach the Final - by Eurobasket News
Lithuania U18 - France U18 68:45

Lithuanian Junior National Team became the first finalist of the European Championship in Slovakia. They defeated France earlier today to make to the title game. Lithuania now awaits the outcome of Czech Republic vs. Russia clash to get to know their opponents in the championship game. Aurime Rinkeviciute (180-F/G-90) scored 22 points to pace the Baltic team to an impressive victory. Giedre Paugaite (192-C-90), Marina Solopova (180-G-90) and Aurime Rinkeviciute lifted Lithuania to an 8:0 early lead. Lithuania rolled confidently in the first frame and accumulated an 18:3 lead heading into the second period. France could not recover early in the second frame as Lithuanian team extended the margin to 20 points. Laurie Datchy (175-G/F-90) scored 4 points to cap the second period but French side still trailed 14:33. Allison Vernerey (191-C-91) and Medenou trimmed the deficit to 15 points at the start of the third stanza. But Lithuania quickly cleared off to a 20-point distance and maintained through the rest of the stanza. All France could do was to cut the distance to 16 points in the final frame however Lithuania remained cool and easily secured the winning outcome at the end. Marina Solopova had 17 points, 8 boards and 6 assists for Lithuania. Giedre Paugaite provided 15 points and 10 boards for the winners. Laurie Datchy scored 14 points for France. Allison Vernerey had 12 points and 9 rebounds in a losing effort.

Lithuania U18: Aurime Rinkeviciute 22, Marina Solopova 17, Giedre Paugaite 15+10 boards
France U18: Laurie Datchy 14, Allison Vernerey 12

Lawson scores more in a win - by Eurobasket News

French Edwige Lawson played only 11 minutes for her Stars and could make 2 assists in 68:78 loss from the Lynx. Seimone Augustus scored 20 points, Lindsey Harding added a season-high 13 and the Minnesota Lynx beat the San Antonio Silver Stars on Friday night. Her team is now 17-9 in WNBA, which is the best result in the Western Conference. In the latest game she
A day before that the San Antonio Silver Stars defeated the Chicago Sky 78:67 on Thursday. San Antonio is 12-2 at home which is a good result in the league.
The Sky had won three of their last five heading into the game. After San Antonio had led by as many as 14 points in the first half, Chicago got within two points when Brooke Wyckoff hit a 3-pointer 1:54 into the second half. Edwige Lawson had a great game with 11 points, 3 steals, 2 assists and 1 rebound.
On July 19th Seimone Augustus made 11 straight shots from the floor and finished with a season-high 30 points to lead the Minnesota Lynx to an 87:74 victory over the San Antonio Silver Stars.The Silver Stars cut it to six points when Ann Wauters scored inside and made a free throw when she was fouled by Vanessa Hayden-Johnson, who scored 10 points. French player had 3 points, 1 rebound and 1 steal.

Edwige Lawson averages 2.6 points per game, has 0.9 rebounds and 0.7 assists. She played already 22 games for the Stars in the season and do her best to stay on top position with her team.



French National Team beats Canada in Geispolsheim Tournament opener - by Eurobasket News
France - Canada 69:49

French National Team scored a comfortable victory over Canada in the Geispolsheim International Tournament opener. France hosts the event that features also Poland and Belarus. Les Bleus looked confident from the start and piled up an 8:3 lead early on. Canada cut the deficit to a single points at one point in the first period but France persisted. Emmanuelle Hermouet (184-F-80) scored 5 points and the hosts enjoyed a 17:12 lead after ten minutes of action. The teams traded baskets early in the second frame and Canada even managed to come within 3 points from the home side. But France spurred ahead to build a 12-point cushion at halftime. French side stretched the margin to 18 points five minutes into the third stanza. Canada closed the frame on a 10:5 rally to shave the deficit a bit. Les Blues however kept Canada at a safe distance throughout the fourth term and pulled away with the victory at the end. Emmanuelle Hermouet and Isabelle Yacoubou (195-C-86) scored 13 points apiece for France. Fatimatou Sacko (185-F-85) added 10 points for the winners. Teresa Gabriele (165-G-79) answered with 13 points for Canada. Alisha Tatham (180-G/F-86) and Kelsey Adrian (185-G/F-89, college: Oregon) had 6 points apiece in a loss. Canada outrebounded the hosts 37:30 but sank just 31% from the field. French players converted 46% of field goals.

France: Emmanuelle Hermouet 13, Isabelle Yacoubou 13, Fatimatou Sacko 10
Canada: Teresa Gabriele 13, Alisha Tatham 6, Kelsey Adrian 6

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  ITALY - Women  


Italy secures Division A spot, sends Romania to Division B - by Eurobasket News
Italy U18 - Romania U18 69:54

Italian Junior National Team celebrated a key win in their pursuit of Division A place for the next year. They defeated Romania to stay in the top division, while Romania got relegated into Division B. Martina Bestagno (189-F/C-90) scored 18 points to lead Italy to an important victory. Italy led right from the start and built an 18:11 lead into the second quarter. Alessandra Tava (184-F-91) scored 5 straight points for Italy early in the second stanza as the Adzurri opened a double digit lead. Romania struggled to get any closer in the second period and trailed by 11 points at the interval. The complexion of the game did not change after the long break. Federica Nannucci (170-G-91) and Martina Bestagno stretched the margin to 14 points midway through the third period. Romania cut the distance to 11 points heading into the fourth stanza. Federica Nannucci and Richter quickly widened the gap to 14 points at the start of the fourth term and Italy never looked back in the final frame. Alessandra Tava came up with 17 points for Italy. Federica Nannucci had 11 points in a winning case. Elisabeth Pavel (192-C-90) answered with game-high 19 points. Andreea Pop (185-C-90) and Gabriela Munteanu (180-F-90) netted 9 points apiece in a losing effort. Romania outrebounded their opponents 46:34 but committed 24 turnovers and shot just 30% from the field.

Italy U18: Martina Bestagno 18, Alessandra Tava 17, Federica Nannucci 11
Romania U18: Elisabeth Pavel 19, Andreea Pop 9, Gabriela Munteanu 9

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  LITHUANIA - Women  


Lithuania rout France to reach the Final - by Eurobasket News
Lithuania U18 - France U18 68:45

Lithuanian Junior National Team became the first finalist of the European Championship in Slovakia. They defeated France earlier today to make to the title game. Lithuania now awaits the outcome of Czech Republic vs. Russia clash to get to know their opponents in the championship game. Aurime Rinkeviciute (180-F/G-90) scored 22 points to pace the Baltic team to an impressive victory. Giedre Paugaite (192-C-90), Marina Solopova (180-G-90) and Aurime Rinkeviciute lifted Lithuania to an 8:0 early lead. Lithuania rolled confidently in the first frame and accumulated an 18:3 lead heading into the second period. France could not recover early in the second frame as Lithuanian team extended the margin to 20 points. Laurie Datchy (175-G/F-90) scored 4 points to cap the second period but French side still trailed 14:33. Allison Vernerey (191-C-91) and Medenou trimmed the deficit to 15 points at the start of the third stanza. But Lithuania quickly cleared off to a 20-point distance and maintained through the rest of the stanza. All France could do was to cut the distance to 16 points in the final frame however Lithuania remained cool and easily secured the winning outcome at the end. Marina Solopova had 17 points, 8 boards and 6 assists for Lithuania. Giedre Paugaite provided 15 points and 10 boards for the winners. Laurie Datchy scored 14 points for France. Allison Vernerey had 12 points and 9 rebounds in a losing effort.

Lithuania U18: Aurime Rinkeviciute 22, Marina Solopova 17, Giedre Paugaite 15+10 boards
France U18: Laurie Datchy 14, Allison Vernerey 12

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  NCAA1 - Women  


USA untamed march continues - by Eurobasket News
USA U18 - Puerto Rico U18 116:36

The United States Junior National Team victimized Puerto Rico in the third round of action at the FIBA Americas Championship in Buenos Aires yesterday. The USA led from the start till the finish and were never seriously challenged by the Caribbean side. Six US players scored in double digits en route to a stunning victory. The USA team remained perfect on top of the ladder. Ashley Corral (5'9''-G-90) came up with 16 points to pace the winners. Lynetta Kizer (6'3''-C-90) secured 13 points for the USA that dominated literally every facet of the game. Nneka Ogwumike nailed all her 9 points in the first stanza and the Unites States jumped to a 25:6 lead ten minutes into the game. The margin grew quickly down the stretch and read 36 points at halftime. The USA never looked back in the second half and breezed to another comfortable victory at the end. Skylar Diggins (5'9''-G-90), Samantha Prahalis (5'7''-G-90) and Sarah Boothe (6'5''-C-90) netted 12 points apiece for the winners. Lorraine Morales (5'11''-C/F-90) answered with 10 points for Puerto Rico. Katia Acevedo (5'1''-G-90) and Rita Acevedo (5'6''-G-92) chipped in 5 points in defeat. The North American players outrebounded their opponents 62:18 and forced those to 22 turnovers. Puerto Rico also sank only 18% from the field. The USA will take on Brazil, while Puerto Rico will play against Canada tonight.

USA U18: Ashley Corral 16, Lynetta Kizer 13
Puerto Rico U18: Lorraine Morales 10

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  POLAND - Women  


Poland outscores Belarus in exhibition encounter - by Eurobasket News
Poland - Belarus 87:71

Polish National Team opened the international exhibition Geispolsheim tournament with win over Belarus. The teams are due to meet with France and Canada at the event. The teams entered the game with full speed and exchanged the baskets in the starting frame. Poland was just more accurate at the end and accumulated a 24:21 advantage. Polish offense was merely unstoppable in the second term as it notched 29 points and Polish team cleared off to a 53:34 distance at halftime. However Belarus showed they are in the game just yet. Katsiaryna Snytsina (188-G?F-85) and Nataliya Trafimava (186-F-79) fueled comeback effort from Belarusian team as they outscored Poland in the third stanza. The gap was narrowed to 11 points heading into the final period and the intrigue was revived. But Polish team did not allow Belarus to capitalize. They raised the tempo in the fourth quarter restored a cozy cushion to breeze to the win at the end. Ewelina Kobryn (193-C-82) notched 16 points to pace Polish team. Daria Mieloszynska (188-F-83, college: Texas) scored 14 points, while Agnieszka Bibrzycka (184-F/G-82, college: Abil.Christian) added 11 points for the winners. Katsiaryna Snytsina and Nataliya Trafimava had 12 points apiece for Belarus. Anastasiya Verameyenka (191-F/C-87) contributed 10 points in defeat. The teams were equally matched on the boards with 33 caroms apiece. Poland in the meantime forced their opponents to as many as 24 turnovers down the stretch.

Poland: Ewelina Kobryn 16, Daria Mieloszynska 14, Agnieszka Bibrzycka 11
Belarus: Katsiaryna Snytsina 12, Nataliya Trafimava 12

Spain will play for the 5th spot at the U18 European Championship - by Eurobasket News
Spain U18 - Poland U18 77:62

Spanish Juniors held off Poland to fight for the 5th overall spot against Serbia tomorrow. The game will be the replay of the last seasons Final. The game will also be the fight for the spot at the U19 World Championship in Thailand next year. Spain managed to overcome a slow start today to knock down Polish team. Alba Garcia (170-G-90) chipped in 15 points to pace Spaniards. Poland got to a better start to the game. Despite conceding the first 7 points of the game Poland went on a 16:2 run to grab the lead. Polish team enjoyed an 18:11 lead but Cristina Pedrals (170-G-91) and Alba Garcia closed the first frame with 5 points in a row and Spain trailed by 2 points at the first intermission. Poland kept in front throughout the second period and earned a 35:31 advantage at halftime. Spain failed to spur in front in the third term and Polish team headed into the fourth period leading by 4 points. However a 6:0 run from Spain to open the fourth quarter allowed Spain to claim a 50:48 advantage with almost 9 minutes to play. Alba Garcia and Xargay soon enlarged the gap to as many as 9 points. Cristina Pedrals added 6 more points and Spain ran away to a 17-point distance. Poland looked stunned and never came back to life in the dying minutes. Cristina Pedrals nailed 14 points, while Cristina Ouvina (173-G-90) had 12 points for the winners. Olivia Tomialowicz (182-G-90) scored 14 points for Poland. Paulina Antczak (183-F-90) netted 12 points and 6 rebounds in defeat.

Spain U18: Alba Garcia 15, Cristina Pedrals 14, Cristina Ouvina 12
Poland U18: Olivia Tomialowicz 14, Paulina Antczak 12

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  PUERTO RICO - Women  


USA untamed march continues - by Eurobasket News
USA U18 - Puerto Rico U18 116:36

The United States Junior National Team victimized Puerto Rico in the third round of action at the FIBA Americas Championship in Buenos Aires yesterday. The USA led from the start till the finish and were never seriously challenged by the Caribbean side. Six US players scored in double digits en route to a stunning victory. The USA team remained perfect on top of the ladder. Ashley Corral (5'9''-G-90) came up with 16 points to pace the winners. Lynetta Kizer (6'3''-C-90) secured 13 points for the USA that dominated literally every facet of the game. Nneka Ogwumike nailed all her 9 points in the first stanza and the Unites States jumped to a 25:6 lead ten minutes into the game. The margin grew quickly down the stretch and read 36 points at halftime. The USA never looked back in the second half and breezed to another comfortable victory at the end. Skylar Diggins (5'9''-G-90), Samantha Prahalis (5'7''-G-90) and Sarah Boothe (6'5''-C-90) netted 12 points apiece for the winners. Lorraine Morales (5'11''-C/F-90) answered with 10 points for Puerto Rico. Katia Acevedo (5'1''-G-90) and Rita Acevedo (5'6''-G-92) chipped in 5 points in defeat. The North American players outrebounded their opponents 62:18 and forced those to 22 turnovers. Puerto Rico also sank only 18% from the field. The USA will take on Brazil, while Puerto Rico will play against Canada tonight.

USA U18: Ashley Corral 16, Lynetta Kizer 13
Puerto Rico U18: Lorraine Morales 10

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  ROMANIA - Women  


Italy secures Division A spot, sends Romania to Division B - by Eurobasket News
Italy U18 - Romania U18 69:54

Italian Junior National Team celebrated a key win in their pursuit of Division A place for the next year. They defeated Romania to stay in the top division, while Romania got relegated into Division B. Martina Bestagno (189-F/C-90) scored 18 points to lead Italy to an important victory. Italy led right from the start and built an 18:11 lead into the second quarter. Alessandra Tava (184-F-91) scored 5 straight points for Italy early in the second stanza as the Adzurri opened a double digit lead. Romania struggled to get any closer in the second period and trailed by 11 points at the interval. The complexion of the game did not change after the long break. Federica Nannucci (170-G-91) and Martina Bestagno stretched the margin to 14 points midway through the third period. Romania cut the distance to 11 points heading into the fourth stanza. Federica Nannucci and Richter quickly widened the gap to 14 points at the start of the fourth term and Italy never looked back in the final frame. Alessandra Tava came up with 17 points for Italy. Federica Nannucci had 11 points in a winning case. Elisabeth Pavel (192-C-90) answered with game-high 19 points. Andreea Pop (185-C-90) and Gabriela Munteanu (180-F-90) netted 9 points apiece in a losing effort. Romania outrebounded their opponents 46:34 but committed 24 turnovers and shot just 30% from the field.

Italy U18: Martina Bestagno 18, Alessandra Tava 17, Federica Nannucci 11
Romania U18: Elisabeth Pavel 19, Andreea Pop 9, Gabriela Munteanu 9

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  RUSSIA - Women  


Russia joins Lithuania in U18 European Championship Final - by Eurobasket News
Russia U18 - Czech Republic U18 62:60

Russian Junior National Team celebrated a dramatic victory against Czech Republic in the European Championship semifinal today. Russia thus advanced to the championship game and would face Lithuania in Nitra tomorrow. Tatiana Petrushina (185-F-90) scored go-ahead free throws with 8 seconds remaining to bring Russia to the victory. The game turned into a real seesaw battle as the teams traded baskets early on. Russia earned a 19:12 lead after the starting period however Karolina Elhotova (179-G-92) and Renata Brezinova (189-C-90) quickly cut the deficit at the start of the second term. Liubov Paskalenko (203-C-90) and Anastasiya Loginova (190-C-90) kept Russian team in front throughout the second frame and they accumulated a 35:28 advantage at halftime. Czechs opened the second half with a 9:0 run to surge ahead 37:35. But Russia soon regained the advantage and drove to a 49:43 lead with one quarter to go. Katerina Bartonova (174-G-90) nailed 4 straight points midway through the fourth quarter and Czech Republic squared things up at 54. Soon Karolina Elhotova put Czech team in charge 57:56 with just over 3 minutes left in regulation. Anastasiya Loginova and Renata Brezinova exchanged the baskets before Tatiana Petrushina knotted it all at 60 apiece with 50 seconds to go. Katerina Bartonova missed consecutive attempts to set up a crucial play for Russian team. Karolina Elhotova fouled Tatiana Petrushina and Russian forward won the game. Katerina Bartonova had a chance to save the day for Czech Republic but missed a desperate three-pointer with the time running out. Tatiana Petrushina finished with 16 points and 8 rebounds for Russia. Alexandra Tarasova (192-C-91) netted 14 points and 16 boards, while Anastasiya Loginova added 11 in a win. Renata Brezinova delivered 13 points and 12 boards for Czech Republic. Pavla Svrdlikova (184-F-90) dropped 11 points in defeat.

Russia U18: Tatiana Petrushina 16, Alexandra Tarasova 14+16 boards, Anastasiya Loginova 11
Czech Republic U18: Renata Brezinova 13+12 boards, Pavla Svrdlikova 11

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  SERBIA - Women  


Serbia grabs last-second win over Slovakia - by Eurobasket News
Slovakia U18 - Serbia U18 67:68

Serbian team earned a narrow dramatic victory over Slovakia in the 5th-8th places semifinals at the U18 European Championship today. The defending champions Serbia thus will play for the 5th place tomorrow. Tina Jovanovic (191-F/C-91) became the hero of the clash as she canned two go-ahead freebies with 5 seconds left in regulation to lift Serbian team to the win. She finished with 19 points, 14 boards and 7 blocks to pace the winners. The hosts will play for the 7th spot on Sunday against the loser of Spain vs. Poland clash.
Slovakia got to a better start of the game as they led 13:8 ten minutes into the game. Klaudia Lukacovicova (193-C-90) and Martina Kissova (184-F-93) enlarged the distance to 9 points early in the second frame but Serbia stayed at a striking distance and trailed by 3 points at halftime. Jovana Popovic (173-G-90) opened the second half with 5 points to draw things level at 36. Soon Latinka Dusanic (178-G-90) nailed a three-pointer and Serbia went on a 10:4 run to pile up a 48:42 advantage late in the third period. Slovakia bounced back to tie the score at 52 midway through the fourth quarter. Serbia spurred ahead with the help of jumpers from Sara Krnjic (193-C-91), Zivadinovic and Jovanovic and enjoyed a 5-point cushion with under 3 minutes left. Martina Kissova, Barbora Novocka (168-G-90) and Cernakova burst out with 7 points to give the home team a 67:66 advantage with one minute to go. But Tina Jovanovic buried two free throws and Serbia pulled away a dramatic victory. Latinka Dusanic nailed 11 points, while Jovana Popovic and Jelena Jovanovic (184-F-90) had 8 points apiece in a win. Martina Kissova secured 19 points for Slovakia. Klaudia Lukacovicova added 16 points and 11 boards in a losing effort.

Slovakia U18: Martina Kissova 19, Klaudia Lukacovicova 16+11 boards
Serbia U18: Tina Jovanovic 19+14 boards, Latinka Dusanic 11, Jovana Popovic 8, Jelena Jovanovic 8

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  SLOVAKIA - Women  


Serbia grabs last-second win over Slovakia - by Eurobasket News
Slovakia U18 - Serbia U18 67:68

Serbian team earned a narrow dramatic victory over Slovakia in the 5th-8th places semifinals at the U18 European Championship today. The defending champions Serbia thus will play for the 5th place tomorrow. Tina Jovanovic (191-F/C-91) became the hero of the clash as she canned two go-ahead freebies with 5 seconds left in regulation to lift Serbian team to the win. She finished with 19 points, 14 boards and 7 blocks to pace the winners. The hosts will play for the 7th spot on Sunday against the loser of Spain vs. Poland clash.
Slovakia got to a better start of the game as they led 13:8 ten minutes into the game. Klaudia Lukacovicova (193-C-90) and Martina Kissova (184-F-93) enlarged the distance to 9 points early in the second frame but Serbia stayed at a striking distance and trailed by 3 points at halftime. Jovana Popovic (173-G-90) opened the second half with 5 points to draw things level at 36. Soon Latinka Dusanic (178-G-90) nailed a three-pointer and Serbia went on a 10:4 run to pile up a 48:42 advantage late in the third period. Slovakia bounced back to tie the score at 52 midway through the fourth quarter. Serbia spurred ahead with the help of jumpers from Sara Krnjic (193-C-91), Zivadinovic and Jovanovic and enjoyed a 5-point cushion with under 3 minutes left. Martina Kissova, Barbora Novocka (168-G-90) and Cernakova burst out with 7 points to give the home team a 67:66 advantage with one minute to go. But Tina Jovanovic buried two free throws and Serbia pulled away a dramatic victory. Latinka Dusanic nailed 11 points, while Jovana Popovic and Jelena Jovanovic (184-F-90) had 8 points apiece in a win. Martina Kissova secured 19 points for Slovakia. Klaudia Lukacovicova added 16 points and 11 boards in a losing effort.

Slovakia U18: Martina Kissova 19, Klaudia Lukacovicova 16+11 boards
Serbia U18: Tina Jovanovic 19+14 boards, Latinka Dusanic 11, Jovana Popovic 8, Jelena Jovanovic 8

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  SPAIN - Women  


Spain will play for the 5th spot at the U18 European Championship - by Eurobasket News
Spain U18 - Poland U18 77:62

Spanish Juniors held off Poland to fight for the 5th overall spot against Serbia tomorrow. The game will be the replay of the last seasons Final. The game will also be the fight for the spot at the U19 World Championship in Thailand next year. Spain managed to overcome a slow start today to knock down Polish team. Alba Garcia (170-G-90) chipped in 15 points to pace Spaniards. Poland got to a better start to the game. Despite conceding the first 7 points of the game Poland went on a 16:2 run to grab the lead. Polish team enjoyed an 18:11 lead but Cristina Pedrals (170-G-91) and Alba Garcia closed the first frame with 5 points in a row and Spain trailed by 2 points at the first intermission. Poland kept in front throughout the second period and earned a 35:31 advantage at halftime. Spain failed to spur in front in the third term and Polish team headed into the fourth period leading by 4 points. However a 6:0 run from Spain to open the fourth quarter allowed Spain to claim a 50:48 advantage with almost 9 minutes to play. Alba Garcia and Xargay soon enlarged the gap to as many as 9 points. Cristina Pedrals added 6 more points and Spain ran away to a 17-point distance. Poland looked stunned and never came back to life in the dying minutes. Cristina Pedrals nailed 14 points, while Cristina Ouvina (173-G-90) had 12 points for the winners. Olivia Tomialowicz (182-G-90) scored 14 points for Poland. Paulina Antczak (183-F-90) netted 12 points and 6 rebounds in defeat.

Spain U18: Alba Garcia 15, Cristina Pedrals 14, Cristina Ouvina 12
Poland U18: Olivia Tomialowicz 14, Paulina Antczak 12

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  TOURNAMENT OF THE AMERICAS U18 - Women  


FIBA Americas U18 Championship. Day 3 - by Eurobasket News
Brazil U18 - Venezuela U18 89:76
Brazilian Junior National Team earned their second straight loss in Argentina. Yesterday they handled Venezuela to improve to 2-1 record and stepped closer to achieving the main goal getting into top 4 teams that would qualify for U19 World Championship to be held next year. Patricia Teixeira (177-G/F-90) came up with arguably the best performance at the competition so far to pace Brazil. She tallied 37 points, 6 assists and 3 boards and Brazil dominated the game. They opened the game confidently and marked their lead early on. The gap grew to 9 points at the first intermission but Brazil never stopped. They continued to raise the tempo and ensured a 16-point advantage at the interval. Venezuela struggled defensively and found themselves trailing by 19 points before the fourth stanza. Finally Brazil switched to a lower gear in the fourth period and allowed Venezuela to cut the distance at the end. Tassia Pereira (175-G-92) produced 19 points and 9 boards for Brazil. Cristiane Simoes (192-F/C-91) had 14 points and 12 boards for the winners. Roselis Silva (-G-90) answered with 20 points and 8 boards for Venezuela. Cleider Blanco (-C-90) netted 17 points in a losing case. Brazil outrebounded their opponents 46:25 and shot solid 56% from the field. Brazil will face the undefeated USA today. Venezuela will oppose hosting Argentina in another todays game.

Brazil U18: Patricia Teixeira 37, Tassia Pereira 19, Cristiane Simoes 14+12 boards
Venezuela U18: Roselis Silva 20, Cleider Blanco 17


USA U18 - Puerto Rico U18 116:36
The United States Junior National Team victimized Puerto Rico in the third round of action at the FIBA Americas Championship in Buenos Aires yesterday. The USA led from the start till the finish and were never seriously challenged by the Caribbean side. Six US players scored in double digits en route to a stunning victory. The USA team remained perfect on top of the ladder. Ashley Corral (175-G-90) came up with 16 points to pace the winners. Lynetta Kizer (191-C-90) secured 13 points for the USA that dominated literally every facet of the game. Nneka Ogwumike nailed all her 9 points in the first stanza and the Unites States jumped to a 25:6 lead ten minutes into the game. The margin grew quickly down the stretch and read 36 points at halftime. The USA never looked back in the second half and breezed to another comfortable victory at the end. Skylar Diggins (175-G-90), Samantha Prahalis (170-G-90) and Sarah Boothe (196-C-90) netted 12 points apiece for the winners. Lorraine Morales (180-C/F-90) answered with 10 points for Puerto Rico. Katia Acevedo and Rita Acevedo chipped in 5 points in defeat. The North American players outrebounded their opponents 62:18 and forced those to 22 turnovers. Puerto Rico also sank only 18% from the field. The USA will take on Brazil, while Puerto Rico will play against Canada tonight.

USA U18: Ashley Corral 16, Lynetta Kizer 13
Puerto Rico U18: Lorraine Morales 10


Argentina U18 - Canada U18 53:72
Canadian Juniors made a huge step towards the U19 World Championship to be held next year in Thailand. Yesterday they defeated hosting Argentina at the U18 FIBA Americas Championship to improve to 2-1 record and strengthened their chances of claiming one of the four top spots that would automatically mean their qualification to the World event. Argentina meanwhile suffered the second straight loss and fell to 1-2 record. They will clash with Venezuela in a key game for both teams at the tournament. Argentina got to a better start to the game as they established an 18:14 lead after the starting frame. But Canada dominated the second stanza and easily gained a 36:28 advantage going into the locker room. Argentina burst out early in the third period to retain the advantage but an 8:0 rally from Canada iced the effort. The North American team took over and stretched the margin to as many as 15 points before the fourth term. Argentina scored just 10 points in the fourth quarter and failed to threaten Canadas lead. Kayla Alexander (195-F/C-91) poured in 18 points to lead Canada. Taryn Wicijowski (188-F/C) notched 14 points and 7 boards, while Elyse Jobin (180-G-90) had 12 points in a winning effort. Debora Gonzalez (170-G-90) answered with 12 points for Argentina. Agostina Burrani (188-C-90) and Macarena Rosset (178-F-90) had 8 points apiece in defeat. Canada pulled down 47 rebounds including 14 offensive ones and shot solid 48% from the field.

Argentina U18: Debora Gonzalez 12, Agostina Burrani 8, Macarena Rosset 8
Canada U18: Kayla Alexander 18, Taryn Wicijowski 14, Elyse Jobin 12

Standings (Women)
A Standings
 1. USA 4-0 
 2. CAN 3-1 
 3. ARG 2-2 
 4. BRA 2-2 
 5. VEN 1-3 
 6. PUR 0-4 


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  TRINIDAD AND TOBAGO - Women  


Trinidad & Tobago finishes fifth - by Don Farrell
MOROVIS (Centrobasket for Women) In the game for the 6th and 5th place, Trinidad & Tobago faced Guatemala.

On the first half, both teams played rather similar with each one looking to establish their system but failing to do so. The first quarter finished 22 17, for Trinidad. The second finished 37 32, also for them. For Trinidad, Patrice Edwards scored 12 points and grabbed 6 rebounds.

The second half saw Trinidad build enough breathing space alter winning the third quarter, 59 49. The game started to shift in favor of Trinidad, who was rallying on the shoulders of Patrice Edwards, who sinished the game with 31 points and 14 rebounds, on their way to a win by 72 61, and the 5th place in the tournament. On the other hand, Guatemala was assisted by Blanca Amado, with 16 points and 10 rebounds. Guatemala finished the tournament in 6th place.



FIBA Americas

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  TURKEY - Women  


Turkey cruises past Bulgaria in Nitra - by Eurobasket News
Turkey U18 - Bulgaria U18 87:57

Turkish U18 National Team scored a confident win over Bulgaria today. The win means Turkey will play against Sweden for the 9th spot tomorrow. Turkey dominated throughout the contest and easily secured the winning outcome at the end. Bulgaria tried to stay close in the opening frame and trailed by just one points ten minutes into the game 14:15. However Ozge Yavas (169-G-91) nailed two treys and Gamze Takmaz (182-F-91) opened another at the start of the second stanza and Turkey gained a 24:14 advantage. Turkey maintained the margin and Turkey led 36:27 at halftime. Bulgaria trimmed the gap to 8 points in the third stanza but it was as close as they could get. Esra Ural (197-C-91) and Ilkan Karaman (205-F-90) capped the period with 5 points and Turkey enjoyed a 58:45 lead. Turkey tipped off the final stanza with a 6:0 run and never looked back again. Tugce Canitez (188-F-90) paced the winners with 14 points and 17 boards. Ozge Yavas had 14 points, while Gamze Takmaz added 13 points for Turkey. Stanislava Stankova (168-G-90) netted 14 points for Bulgaria. Violina Kocheva (176-F-91) contributed 11 points in a losing case. Bulgarian team will play for the 11th overall spot against Ukraine tomorrow.

Turkey U18: Tugce Canitez 14+17 boards, Ozge Yavas 14, Gamze Takmaz 13
Bulgaria U18: Stanislava Stankova 14, Violina Kocheva 11

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  VENEZUELA - Women  


Brazil gains speed at the U18 FIBA Americas Championship - by Eurobasket News
Brazil U18 - Venezuela U18 89:76

Brazilian Junior National Team earned their second straight loss in Argentina. Yesterday they handled Venezuela to improve to 2-1 record and stepped closer to achieving the main goal getting into top 4 teams that would qualify for U19 World Championship to be held next year. Patricia Teixeira (177-G/F-90) came up with arguably the best performance at the competition so far to pace Brazil. She tallied 37 points, 6 assists and 3 boards and Brazil dominated the game. They opened the game confidently and marked their lead early on. The gap grew to 9 points at the first intermission but Brazil never stopped. They continued to raise the tempo and ensured a 16-point advantage at the interval. Venezuela struggled defensively and found themselves trailing by 19 points before the fourth stanza. Finally Brazil switched to a lower gear in the fourth period and allowed Venezuela to cut the distance at the end. Tassia Pereira (175-G-92) produced 19 points and 9 boards for Brazil. Cristiane Simoes (192-F/C-91) had 14 points and 12 boards for the winners. Roselis Silva (-G-90) answered with 20 points and 8 boards for Venezuela. Cleider Blanco (-C-90) netted 17 points in a losing case. Brazil outrebounded their opponents 46:25 and shot solid 56% from the field. Brazil will face the undefeated USA today. Venezuela will oppose hosting Argentina in another todays game.

Brazil U18: Patricia Teixeira 37, Tassia Pereira 19, Cristiane Simoes 14+12 boards
Venezuela U18: Roselis Silva 20, Cleider Blanco 17

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  WNBA - Women  


McCarvilles Layup Lifts Liberty Past Sparks - by Bruno Baltazar
Janel McCarville (6'2''-C-82, college: Minnesota) layup with 6.4 seconds left lifted the New York Liberty to a 69-68 win over the Los Angeles Sparks.
McCarville led New York with 15 points and Shameka Christon (6'1''-G/F-82, college: Arkansas) added 13.
Milton-Jones led the Sparks with 19 points and Leslie added 16 points and 13 rebounds.
Cathrine Kraayeveld, who finished with 11 points, hit a 3-pointer from the wing to give New York a 67-65 advantage with 27.4 seconds left.
After a timeout, Kiesha Brown (5'11''-G-79, college: Georgia) then hit a 3-pointer from the left wing with 15 seconds left to restore the Sparks' lead setting up the exciting finish.

McWilliams-Franklin scored 13 points and had 12 rebounds in Washington's 81-75 victory over the Atlanta Dream on Friday night.
Alana Beard (5'11''-G/F-82, college: Duke) finished with 12 points, and Monique Currie (6'0''-G/F-83, agency: Ronsport, college: Duke) and Bernice Mosby (6'1''-F-84, agency: LBM Management, college: Baylor) each had 11 for the Mystics, who held Atlanta without a field goal in the final 3:46.

Seimone Augustus (6'1''-G-84, college: LSU) scored 20 points, Lindsey Harding (5'8''-G-84, college: Duke) added a season-high 13 and the Minnesota Lynx beat the San Antonio Silver Stars 78-68 on Friday night.

Diana Taurasi (6'0''-G-82, college: Connecticut) scored 31 points to lead the Phoenix Mercury past the Seattle Storm 94-80 Friday, snapping a two-game losing streak.
Yolanda Griffith (6'4''-C/F-70, college: Florida Atlantic) scored 15 of her team-high 17 points in the second half to lead Seattle, which lost for only the second time in 10 games.
LaToya Pringle (6'3''-F/C-86, college: N.Carolina) added 14 points and six rebounds and Cappie Pondexter (5'9''-G-83, college: Rutgers) had 12 points for the last-place Mercury.