EUROBASKET NEWS REPORT - 8/14/2008

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Men News

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  ABA   


ABA adds Corbin, KY to its 2008 roster of teams - by Eurobasket News
The American Basketball Association (ABA) today announced that it has added Corbin, Kentucky to its roster of teams scheduled to begin play in December. According to Joe Newman, ABA CEO, 'This is the perfect addition to the division in Eastern Kentucky and should be great rivalries with the other Kentucky teams as well as the teams in Tennessee, North Carolina and West Virginia - and in owner, James 'Jimbo' Collins, we have quite a promoter. This one should be fun.'
'Jimbo' Collins in a native of Harlan, Kentucky, graduated from Harlan Independent High and majored in journalism at Southeast Community College. He is currently a sports writer for the Times-Tribune newspaper in Corbin and has worked with emotionally disturbed children for three years.

But, the big news is that he wrestled professionally for eleven years as 'Country Boy Jimbo Collins' and now owns and operates the most successful Mixed Martial Arts company in Kentucky (Warrior MMA) that has run more than 90 successful MMA events over the past four years and his parent company, Jama Promotions, is sanctioned by the Kentucky Boxing and Wrestling Authority. 'I am very proud of that,' stated Collins. 'I was also the first licensed MMM promoter in Kentucky and the first licensed MMA referee here also. We will make the ABA games something very exciting, something very special here.'

'Basketball was my first love and I look forward to bringing a winning and hopefully a championship ABA team to Corbin,' added Collins. Married to his high school sweetheart, Thelma, the Collins have three children, James Andre II, Sara Marie and Hunter Loren. For more information, visit www.warriorfc.com or email warriormma@newwavecomm.net or call 606 521 6810 or visit www.abalive2.com. -

Courtesy of ABA

Washington Raptors sign guard Greg Johnson - by Eurobasket News
Washington Raptors have announced the return and signing of Greg Johnson (6'3''-G-76, college: Evergreen St.) to the team for the upcoming season starting in December. Johnson, a 6'3 guard, played for the Raptors in 2007 when they were in the IBL. He previously played for the Seattle Mountaineers. Originally from Austin, TX, Johnson graduated from the Evergreen State College in Olympia, WA and is currently employed as a teacher at an Olympia high school. Raptors owner, Regina Joseph, stated, 'Greg is a true asset to our team with his great athleticism and skills, and we are really looking forward to his playing in the ABA this season.' For more information, email tjoseph@washingtonraptors.com or visit www.washingtonraptors.com or www.abalive2.com.

Meanwhile, Jersey Express professional basketball team has announced that season tickets for the upcoming 2008-2009 season are available now. The Express will play a 30-game schedule with 15 home and 15 away games. The team will open the new campaign on Saturday, November 15th at 7pm. Home dates for the 2008-2009 season are posted on the team's website with the complete season schedule to be available shortly.
Season tickets range from $150 to $130 for general seating admission, depending on the number of tickets requested. Season ticket holders receive 15 regular season home games, opening night autograph and photo session with the team and first choice of playoff seats.
High scoring, exciting, fan friendly entertainment that the whole family can enjoy. You'll be entertained by local talent from dancers, singers and various performers throughout the season. That makes attending a Jersey Express game the best entertainment value for your dollar. Purchase your Season Ticket Pass today. One price covers it all. For more information, visit www.jerseyexpress.net or call 973 586 0006 for group and fundraising information. The games are played at Drew University, Home of the Jersey Express, 36 Madison Avenue, Madison, NJ. Or visit www.abalive2.com.

Courtesy of ABA

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  ARGENTINA   


Argentinian Cup 2008 - by Facundo Iatzky

The ADC announced a new edition of Argentinian Cup, the tournament where all the teams of Liga A and TNA play looking for their best shape for the official season. The cup will start on August 29 and these are the groups:

Group 1: Libertad (Sunchales), Zanella-Ben Hur (Rafaela), Unin (Sunchales) Alma Jrs. (Esperanza)

Group 2: Atenas (Crdoba), Sionista (Paran), Echage (Paran) San Martn (Marcos Jurez).

Group 3: Quimsa (Santiago del Estero), Olmpico (La Banda), Asociacin Italiana (Charata) Asociacin Espaola (Charata)

Group 4: Regatas (Corrientes), La Unin (Formosa), San Martn (Corrientes) Ober TC (Ober)

Group 5: Pearol (Mar del Plata), Quilmes (Mar del Plata), Argentino (Junn) Ciclista (Junn).

Group 6: Estudiantes (Baha Blanca), El Nacional Monte Hermoso (Baha Blanca), Gimnasia (Comodoro Rivadavia), Independiente (Neuqun).

Group 7: Obras Sanitarias (Buenos Aires), Firmat FC (Firmat), Belgrano (San Nicols) Pedro Echage (Buenos Aires).

Group 8: Boca Jrs. (Buenos Aires), Lans (Lans), Central Entrerriano (Gualeguaych) Gimnasia (La Plata)

The first team of each group will advance to Quarterfinals and the winners then will play the Final Four on September 25-27.



Foreigner news - by Facundo Iatzky
Liga A:
Quilmes MDP: panamenian Antonio Garcia finally will not play in Quilmes this season. Quilmes decided look for another player. Travis Garrison is not sure yet.
Libertad: Resigned former NBA Laron Profit (196-G/F-77, agency: Octagon, college: Maryland). Laron was very important in the team that got the championship.
Olimpico: announced Ed Nelson (203-F-82, college: Connecticut) Anthony Glover (196-F-79, agency: Passing Lane, college: St.John's) and Andre Dabney (175-G) as their three foreigners

TNA:
Obera TC signed Fred Hooks (198-F-82, agency: Passing Lane, college: Humboldt St.)

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  AUSTRALIA   


Purdue on Australian Tour - by Eurobasket News
Purdue improved on the court from one game to the next over the first three games of its Australian Tour, and that trend continued on Wednesday evening as the Boilermakers defeated the NBL's Gold Coast Blaze in overtime, 115-107.

Purdue trailed by as much as nine points in the second quarter, but fought back to pull to within one at the half. An old-fashioned three-point play by Robbie Hummel (6'8''-G/F-89) opened the third quarter to give Purdue the lead, and a Chris Kramer (6'3''-G-88) jumper late in the third quarter gave the Boilermakers a lead they would never hand back.

Although the Boilers never trailed again following Kramer's bucket, the Blaze did knot the score at 100-100 with 1:01 remaing in the game on free throws by Jauquin Hawkins, the final two points of regulation.

Overtime was all Purdue as the Boilermakers outscored their Aussie opponent 17-8 in the extra five-minute period.

'I was proud of the way we responded tonight,' head coach Matt Painter said. 'We have put our guys in unfamiliar settings, playing in foreign cities with hometown officials and 48-minute clocks and they have not quit fighting.

'We came down here to win games,' Painter said, 'but we also came down here to face the best competition available. We could have gone undefeated against B-level competition, but a win like tonight against this country's top-level professionals will be much more meaningful in our preparation for the upcoming season.'

E'Twaun Moore again led the Boilermakers in scoring, netting 35 on 11-25 shooting from the floor and 10-11 from the charity stripe. Hummel added 22 and Marcus Green chipped in 16.

The game was tied at 30-30 after 12 minutes, and the score was 53-52 in favor of Gold Coast after one half. Heading into the final period, the Boilermakers held an 81-78 advantage.

Trailing 51-42 late in the second quarter, Purdue rolled a 10-2 run to end the half on back-to-back buckets by Calasan followed by six consecutive points from Moore.

Purdue's second-half lead grew to as many as 11 with 7:54 remaining in regulation, but a well-timed Gold Coast timeout seemed to breathe new life into the professionals. The Blaze outscored the Boilers 9-2 over a couple of minutes following the timeout to pull to within four at 91-87.

The four-point Purdue was still in place with 3:00 remaining at 95-91, and the advantage decreased to two points at 97-95 one minute later. The Hawkins free throws tied the score at 100-100 with 1:01 left. Each team had a couple chances in the final minute, with Purdue missing on a Moore jumper in the closing seconds.

The Gold Coast Blaze finished 15-15 in the Australian National Basketball League during the 2007-08 season.

The Boilermakers are 2-2 on their Australian tour with one game remaining. Purdue will close its trip down under on Saturday evening against the Cairns Taipans of the NBL.

Courtesy of www.cstv.com

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  BRITISH VIRGIN ISLANDS   


BVI trounce Netherlands in CBC tournament - by David Edole

British Virgin Islands (BVI) trashed the Netherlands Antilles 86-17, defeating them by a whopping 69 points in the Caribbean Basketball Confederation (CBC) Youth Championships at the JSC Sports Complex on Wednesday.

Playing in the days opening encounter of a scheduled triple-header, BVI dominated the contest and even showed off at some points with centre Noville Carey bringing the crowd to its feet in the third quarter with a right-handed slam dunk. The player ended the encounter as BVIs top-scorer with 17 points, 10 rebounds and five blocks while Raheem Blyden had 14 points and 19 boards.

It was, however, all BVI throughout the contest as they out-shot, out-muscled and out-ran the tame Netherlands players, taking a 17-0 lead by the end of the first quarter. Things did not change much in the second quarter as BVI continued to out-play their wary-looking opponents to stretch their lead to 43-3 at the half.

BVI would add another 20 points to Netherlands five in the third to cruse into the fourth quarter with a 63-8 lead. Netherlands enjoyed their best half of play in the final quarter when they sank nine points but were still outscored by BVI who hit 26 points in the final 10 minutes quarter.

Captain Chadwick Richardson was the chief marksman for Netherlands Antilles, sinking five points, grabbing three rebounds and a block-shot while Shawin Blyden picked up three points, eight rebounds and three blocks.

Coach of the BVI team, Brian Bewley, said that after watching the Netherlands 32-point loss to host Antigua and Barbuda on Tuesday night, his team came out to put their opponents under some heavy pressure.

We noticed that they did not play well when put under pressure so we decided to come out and play attacking basketball and I think we stuck to the game plan and the players were eager to just get out there and play, he said.

Captain of the team, Darryl Alexander, shared his coachs sentiments, stating the players worked hard during training and are hoping to go all the way.

We practised very hard for the tournament so I try to encourage them a lot out there so you never know what can happen we might just go all the way, he said.

Meanwhile, coach of the losing team, Gordon St. Luce, admitted to being outplayed by a more physical BVI team.

They played a more physical game than us and our guys also came out a little flat. Nothing really went well out there because we were outhustled and the other team just seemed to want it more than us, he added.

Antigua and Barbuda made a promising start to their campaign on Tuesday when they defeated Netherlands Antilles 102-70. Sheldon Abraham top-scored for the victors with 33 points while grabbing 16 rebounds, eight steals and racking up five blocks. Shaz Samuel and Xavier Galloway both contributed 14 points. Jonathan Johnson top-scored for Netherlands with 16 points.


by Neto Baptiste



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  CANADA   


ONTARIO SWEEPS U15 NATIONALS - by John Gary
courtesy basketball canada Ontario swept the U15 national championchips this past sunday defeating host British Columbia in the finals of both the boys and girls divisions. In the girls game, Ontario broke out to a 15-1 run to open the game and never trailed in the contest. British Columbia struggled offensively shooting only 23 percent from the floor making only 3 of 17 free throws for the game. In the boys matchup, guard Kevin Pangos led Ontario with 21 points eight rebounds and six assitswhile Negus Webster Chan tailed 13 points and led in rebounds in a game where every player on the championchip team registered a point. Four other players scored in double figures for Ontario.

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  CAPE VERDE   


Cape Verde BAsketball Federation annuls South Santiago senior mens basketball championship - by Pedro Gomes
After Seven Stars appealed the decision of the Santiago South Associaton, the results were as follow, Santiago South will not send a representative to the National Basketball Championship. The Cape Verdean Basketball Federation (FCBB) decided, following a legal opinion issued by its Jurisdictional Council, to annul the South Santiago senior mens championship for the 2007/2008 season. The FCBBs decision brings an end to the confrontation that had pitted Seven Stars against ABC - both of the Praia-based teams were claiming the regional title for themselves.

With this decision by the FCBB, which also decided to annul the announcements issued by the Federations general secretary Carlos Furtado and treasurer Nuno Levy following the last game in the final phase of the senior mens playoff, Cape Verdes largest region will not be sending a representative to the national basketball championship.

In closing the book on this incident, which delayed and stained the image of the national basketball championship, the FCBB called on associated teams to take the necessary measures to ensure that this type of situation does not repeat itself in the future. Indeed, this was not the first time that such cases have taken place in the South Santiago region.

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  COLOMBIA   


Indervalle agrees terms with George Baker - by Victor Garcia
Indervalle reports has reached an agrement with American Forward George Baker, Baker is 65', 27 years forward from Georgetown College (NAIA), and has played in Portugal and New Zealand in his two seasons with Galitos in Portugal Pro-Liga , baker has averaged 19 ppg,.
Baker is know as a good 3 point shooter and will bring scoring to the Calis team, Indervalle did not made the playoffs last year and expects to be back in the playoffs in this 2008 Federation Cup

Canoneros back in Bussines with new Coach - by Victor Garcia
According to local sources Canoneros de Cucuta confirms its return to the Major Basketball in Colombia, sponsored for the local Goverment Canoneros will play the 2008 Colombian Basketball Federation Cup, according the same source the coach will be the great Julio Toro or his assistant Ramn Melendez, Canoneros is already building its roster, players like Juan Manaure could be part of the team.
Toro or Melendez should arrive to Cucuta in this week.

Bucaros inks Curtis Williams and agrees with Marcus Flemming - by Victor Garcia
Bucaros the reigning Champion of the Cup inked 2007 Federation Cups best import Curtis Williams, Williams who played at Arrieros last season will play in the paint for the yellow team, Williams is expected to arrive soon to the country.
Also Bucaros agreed terms with Venezuelas best import of the year Marcus Flemming, the team is expecting to ink the player this week, both players will join Edgar Moren in an strong LineupMarcus Fleming (204-F-78, college: Alcorn St.)

Arrieros Building a strong roster with Bayona, D.Guevara, Walker, E. Guevara and Aragon - by Victor Garcia
Arrieros de Antioquia, 2008 Federation Cup runner-up, has agreed terms with Venezuelas star Diego Guevara to fill the guard spot in the team, also the team has agreed terms with Colombian-Venezuelan center Heberth Bayona, both players will join Jermaine Walker who also has agreed terms with the team.
Enielsen Guevara is also confirmed back in Arrieros for this season, Guevara is recovering from a knee surgery and will be on practices soon, also Norbey Aragon has agreed with the teamHerbert Bayona (211-C-78, agency: Duran International, college: St.Francis,NY)

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  COSTA RICA   


Liceo defeats Barva - by Gianni Pascucci
In the last round of of the Clausura Tournment, Coopenae Liceo de Costa Rica managed to defeat Ferreteria Brenes Barva, at the end of a true battle, 113-106 after two overtimes (the regulatione had ended 84-84 and the first overtime 95-95). As usual, the main performer in Liceo was Henry Martinez (186-G/F-75, agency: Interperformances), with 29 points. Thanks to this win Liceo confirms his role of main challenger of Barva for the 2008 title. In the other games of tthe round, BCR Colono Limon defeated San Luis Gonzaga, 51-63, with Charles Plummer scoring 15 pts in Limon and Cesar Carrillo (-F) scoring 14 at the losing side; Goicoechea felt again, this time to Universidad de Costa Rica, 67-73 (Sven Watson (183-F-80) topped the scorers at 25); Tiendas El Parque Escazu defeated Coyotes de Santa Ana 56-43 with Columbian Michael Jackson (-F) leading the way at 19 points.

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  EUROBASKET SUMMER LEAGUE   


Eurobasket Summer League (ESL) - Las Vegas Co-MVP signs with Plannja Basket - by Darryl Reshaw
Derrick Stevens (180-G-80, college: Colorado St.) the Co-MVP of the first annual Eurobasket Summer League (ESL) in Las Vegas signed with the Swedish League powerhouse Plannja Basket Lulea.

After having a journeyman type of basketball career playing in the WBA, ABA, Iceland and the NBDL Derrick decided to play in the ESL in Las Vegas in July to get more exposure for the European market.
He surprised everyone in Las Vegas including many of the European scouts with his sheer athleticism, decision making skills, ball handling and scoring ability to lead his team to the championship of the ESL in Las Vegas.
He was offered various contracts on the spot in Las Vegas and turned down a six-figure offer from the top team in Mexico to concentrate on playing in Europe.

Matthias Kentta the new head coach at Plannja Basket Lulea was one of the many coaches from the international market who was in attendance at the Tarkanian Basketball Academy to evaluate the forty (40) talented players.

Mattias really liked a few highly talented guards that he scouted at the ESL and was very impressed with the overall talent level of the ESL after going to all of the other events in Las Vegas in July.

However he probably would not have recruited any of the guards based off of their profiles seen on the Eurobakset website but the ESL provided a great scouting and showcase opportunity for Derrick Stevens and the new coach at Plannja Basket Lulea .

Plannja Basket Lulea has been the flagship of Swedish Basketball for the past 15 years as they have participated in the NEBL, FIBA SuperLeague, Korac Cup, Saporta Cup and the FIBA Champions Cup while winning the Swedish League Championship in the process.

Over the years a lot of players have been impressed by the professionalism of the management team at Plannja Basket Lulea , their high-quality basketball infra-structure and their fan support.

Many top players like the great Eric Elliott (182-G-69, college: Hope (MI)), Carl Thomas (192-G-69, college: E.Michigan) and Brent Wright (203-F/C-78, college: Florida) have graced Plannja Basket Lulea prior to landing major contracts with top European teams while playing for the legendary Swedish coach David Visscher who still works as a consultant for the quality organization.

Derrick was a big surprise at the ESL because their were a lot of other players at the Las Vegas event that had NBA, Euroleague, CBA and other international experience with higher quality resumes on paper but over the three day period he was the guy who had the big game.

As a result he has signed a one year deal with one of Europe's most prestigious team with a buy-out clause.

There have been a lot of players that have signed contract as of result of participating in the various Eurobasket Summer League events this summer in the various cities.

Dan Fitzgerald (206-F-84, college: Marquette) who also played in the Las Vegas ESL signed with ratiopharm Ulm in Germany as Mike Taylor was one of the coaches who participated as an ESL coach.

After the ESL in Las Vegas Dan also played in the NBA Summer League in Las Vegas.

Mike Taylor did an outstanding job as an ESL coach and loved Dan Fitzgerald's game as he had an opportunity to work with Dan in the ESL as he was the player's coach in Las Vegas.

Tim Morris (193-G-84, college: Washington) from University of Washington who also participated in the ESL in Las Vegas and made the All Tournament Team signed with FC Bayern Muenchen in Germany as they scouted him at the ESL in Las Vegas as well.

Kyle Lamonte (191-G-84, agency: Beggs and Lane, college: William Carey) the highly talented guard who was a NAIA All-American, ESL CO-MVP in Chicago and made the All Tournament Team in Las Vegas signed this week in Turkey with Banvit Basketbol Kulubu Basketball second team but really impressed their head coach B. Selcuk Ernak of the first team in Las Vegas with his amazing skills and upside potential.

Kyle will have the opportunity to play at the highest level in Europe in the following season while honing his skills in practice this season with the first team and playing with their second team in the Turkish second division.

There were a lot of other job offers and placements from the Las Vegas event and later in the week we will be featuring some of the other placements from Chicago, Salt Lake City and New York City events.

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  GERMANY   


Bonn inks Brandon Bowman - by Manuel Schust
Telekom Baskets Bonn signed american forward Brandon Bowman (204-F-84, agency: David Lee services, college: Georgetown) for the upcoming season. The 24-year old played last season with Lega2 team Ignis Draghi Novara and averaged 18.6 points and 6.7 rebounds.
Before joining a team from overseas, the former NCAA Georgetown player spent most of his professional career in NBDL. Until December 2007 he produced impressive numbers for Bakersville Jam averaging 19.2 points, 8.0 rebounds and 2.9 assists in 18 contests.

With the signing of Bowman Bonn's roster is set for the new season.

ProA: MBC signs Gruebler and 3 youngsters - by Manuel Schust
ProA team Mitteldeutscher BC II announced the signing of german Center Lars Gruebler (211-C-80, college: Hofstra). The 27-year old big man, who played NCAA with Hofstra from 1999 - 2003, signed a one-year contract with the team located in Weissenfels.
After his years at college Gruebler joined BBL club Bayer Giants Leverkusen. In 2005 he signed with second division team Bayreuth and had especially a decent 2006-2007 season, producing 15.0 points and 9.5 rebounds per game. He was also honoured with the Eurobasket.com All-German 2.Bundesliga South All-Domestic Players Team 2007 award.
Last year Gruebler had to deal with serious injuries (torn ACL, broken shinbone) and could only perform in 2 games. Now he looks for a new start in Weissenfels and is ready to compete again.

The team also announced the signing of 3 youngsters: Markus Krueger (190-G/F-89), Kevin Weber and Florian Konnegen will fill the positions 10, 11 and 12 on the roster and will also get the chance to play with Mitteldeutscher BC II and the NBBL team.

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  GREECE   


D.J. Thompson: I will play at a top level championship - by Kostas Papadopoulos
D.J. Thompson (173-G-85, agency: Hart Sports Mngm, college: Appalachian St.), the new player of AEK, gave an interesting interview at Polish site 'Watauga Democrat', referring on his big movement at Greece and the new prospects in his career. D.J. Thompson moves up the professional ranks after spending last season in Poland with the AZS Koszalin club, leading the team to the playoffs and finishing fifth in the league in scoring with 15.7 points per game.
Im really excited and ready to see what that talent level is like, D.J. Thompson said. I expect it to be a whole new level and I want to see how hard those guys work and how talented they are.
Concerning Athens, he stated that despite being bigger than Boone (Poland), the city really felt a lot like being at Appalachian. We had a very good fanbase but the town didnt have any other sports so it was a very basketball-minded environment.
Getting used to the European crowds was an eye-opener for D.J. Thompson as flares and fireworks being lit in the crowd were not out of the ordinary. The amount of imbibing by the crowds also came as a surprise: 'they really get after it during the game. I guess it makes them enjoy the game more and it definitely creates a very rowdy environment.
Greek is also a difficult language both to understand and speak, just like Polish. D.J. Thompson has his opinion about that: If they clapped at you, that was bad. I think. Ive never been in situation where I was such an outsider, where I had nothing in common with anyone and couldnt even communicate with people around me. At first, in Poland, it was hard to order food, hard to shop, hard to do anything. Not knowing the language I couldnt even really go out by myself so you always had to make plans with other players to go out. He eventually, though, overcame the language barrier and picked up enough Polish to get through each day and was also aided by his surroundings adapting to him, noting that it got to the point at his favorite restaurants that he didnt have to attempt to stumble and stammer through ordering. Hed become such a familiar face that the staff would put in his favorite order as soon as he walked through the door.
And what about his typical day? On a typical day wed wake up at about 9 a.m., get something to eat and go lift weights at 10 a.m. After that wed start practice at 11 a.m. and go until about 1 or 2 p.m., D.J. Thompson said. Then you and some teammates might go grab lunch, but the rest of the day was all yours, I wasnt used to so much free time and time alone. In fact, part of his free time was spent just keeping in touch with friends and family back home, which points out at times was practically a part-time job in itself. The time to himself with few constraints also forced him to develop the maturity, focus and discipline needed to play professional basketball. There isnt a whole lot of teaching or guidance. Youre expected to know the game at a professional level and perform each day at a professional level, D.J. Thompson said. If you cant do that, you dont just get benched, you get sent home and they find someone who can perform.
Performing at that level is D.J. Thompsons ultimate goal upon his arrival in Athens. However, to do that he admits he needs to get acclimated in his new home as soon as possible since comfort and familiarity are paramount to a players success in a foreign land. D.J. Thompson certainly hopes to become as comfortable in his new Black and Gold as he was in the Mountaineers in which he finished his four-year collegiate career sixth all-time in scoring (1.599 points), first in 3-pointers (270) and steals (293) and second in assists (508) on the way to becoming one of the best players to ever suit up for the Mountaineers.

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  ISRAEL   


Market News - by Richard
Avishay Gordon (193-G-77) signed to two years in Gliboa\Galil.
Avishay played the last year in the champions,Hapoel Holon,were he averaged 2.6 PTS and 1.3 BG.

Tal Dan (195-F-87) signed in Elitzur Qiryat Ata. Tal is the 5 signed player in Qiryat Ata after Erez Kohansky,Elad Eliayhu ,Vladi Ermichin and Uriel Marko. Tal grew up in Maccabi Rishon LZ youth and also played in the national team U-18. The last season he played in Rishon LZ

Ben Strong (211-C-86, college: Guilford) Signed for 2 years(and more 1 year option for the team) in Maccabi Haifa. Ben played the last year in Guilford (NCAA3) College where he averaged: 25.8ppg, 10.8rpg, 2.2bpg, 2.0apg, FG: 57.6%, FT: 77.4%

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  ITALY   


Dickau to Avellino, Hawkins to Milano - by Gianni Pascucci
Olimpia Armani Jeans Milano officially announced the signing of David Hawkins (193-G-82, agency: CAA Sports, college: Temple), last at Lottomatica Roma. Scandone Air Avellino announced the agreement with USA-POL guard Dan Dickau (183-G-78, agency: Priority Sports, college: Gonzaga), an NBA veteran with more than 300 played in that league. The Dickau's deal is one of the main ones in Italy this summer, and it seems to be not over yet, because Montegranaro could announce soon another big name, there are rumors about Shawn Kemp (209-F-69, college: Trinity Valley JC) or Vin Baker (211-F-71, college: Hartford) coming to Premiata..

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  LITHUANIA   


Last transactions in Lithuania - by Evaldas Ceilytkas
There are lots transactions in Lithuanian league on these days. BC Siauliai has signed experienced guard Gintautas Vileita (192-G-75, college: Monmouth) and center Augustinas Vitas (210-C-82, college: Birmingham Souther), who played last season in Romania. Team From Alytus Alita signed young center Vilius Sumskis (212-C-84, agency: Interperformances) and promising point guard former U-20 player Paulius Ivanauskas (194-G-87). Sakalai Vilnius has signed former Zalgiris player Vilmantas Dilys (205-F-87, agency: Interperformances). Marijampole Suduva-Arvi has signed experienced center Mindaugas Kalvelis (205-C-80) and shooting guard Mantas Simonavicius (198-F-86).

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  NCAA1   


Purdue on Australian Tour - by Eurobasket News
Purdue improved on the court from one game to the next over the first three games of its Australian Tour, and that trend continued on Wednesday evening as the Boilermakers defeated the NBL's Gold Coast Blaze in overtime, 115-107.

Purdue trailed by as much as nine points in the second quarter, but fought back to pull to within one at the half. An old-fashioned three-point play by Robbie Hummel (6'8''-G/F-89) opened the third quarter to give Purdue the lead, and a Chris Kramer (6'3''-G-88) jumper late in the third quarter gave the Boilermakers a lead they would never hand back.

Although the Boilers never trailed again following Kramer's bucket, the Blaze did knot the score at 100-100 with 1:01 remaing in the game on free throws by Jauquin Hawkins, the final two points of regulation.

Overtime was all Purdue as the Boilermakers outscored their Aussie opponent 17-8 in the extra five-minute period.

'I was proud of the way we responded tonight,' head coach Matt Painter said. 'We have put our guys in unfamiliar settings, playing in foreign cities with hometown officials and 48-minute clocks and they have not quit fighting.

'We came down here to win games,' Painter said, 'but we also came down here to face the best competition available. We could have gone undefeated against B-level competition, but a win like tonight against this country's top-level professionals will be much more meaningful in our preparation for the upcoming season.'

E'Twaun Moore again led the Boilermakers in scoring, netting 35 on 11-25 shooting from the floor and 10-11 from the charity stripe. Hummel added 22 and Marcus Green chipped in 16.

The game was tied at 30-30 after 12 minutes, and the score was 53-52 in favor of Gold Coast after one half. Heading into the final period, the Boilermakers held an 81-78 advantage.

Trailing 51-42 late in the second quarter, Purdue rolled a 10-2 run to end the half on back-to-back buckets by Calasan followed by six consecutive points from Moore.

Purdue's second-half lead grew to as many as 11 with 7:54 remaining in regulation, but a well-timed Gold Coast timeout seemed to breathe new life into the professionals. The Blaze outscored the Boilers 9-2 over a couple of minutes following the timeout to pull to within four at 91-87.

The four-point Purdue was still in place with 3:00 remaining at 95-91, and the advantage decreased to two points at 97-95 one minute later. The Hawkins free throws tied the score at 100-100 with 1:01 left. Each team had a couple chances in the final minute, with Purdue missing on a Moore jumper in the closing seconds.

The Gold Coast Blaze finished 15-15 in the Australian National Basketball League during the 2007-08 season.

The Boilermakers are 2-2 on their Australian tour with one game remaining. Purdue will close its trip down under on Saturday evening against the Cairns Taipans of the NBL.

Courtesy of www.cstv.com

Loyola names Greg Manning assistant coach - by Eurobasket News
Loyola Greyhounds fifth-year head coach Jimmy Patsos today announced that 2008 Loyola graduate Greg Manning (6'0''-G-85) has joined the men's basketball coaching staff as an assistant coach. Manning replaces Brian Blaney who was named an assistant coach at Fairfield University last month.

'Greg was one of the first recruits we got when we took over the program four years ago so I'm glad to see him continue to be a part of what he has been helping us build the last four years,' Patsos said in making the announcement. 'His basketball knowledge was evident during his career here as he ran our scout teams and helped us prepare for each game. Those qualities are going to help him as he embarks on his career in the coaching profession.'

Manning agreed to attend Loyola shortly after Patsos took over the reins as head coach in April 2004. He was a member of the team for four years and helped the Greyhounds to 58 wins during his career, the highest total since members of the Class of '87 registered 63 wins between 1983-87. He was graduated in May with a degree in Communications-Public Relations.

'I feel extremely privileged to be joining Jimmy Patsos and his staff here at Loyola College,' Manning stated. 'Having played here the last four years has given me an understanding of the dedication that it takes to build a program and I'm looking forward to being a part of that each and every day from the coaching side. Working under such an accomplished coach like Jimmy, who has been to the top winning a National Championship as an assistant at Maryland, is going to allow me to learn from someone who knows what it takes to be successful in this business.'

A native of Alpharetta, Ga., Manning appeared in 92 games during his career, earning starts during his freshman and senior years. A three-point shooter, he knocked down 32 shots from beyond the arc and tallied 177 total points. He produced two of the highlights of the season during his senior campaign - scoring 10 points in 11 minutes at National Champion Kansas and coming off the bench cold at Siena to tie the game with a three-pointer with eight seconds remaining, finishing with five points in 14 seconds in the Greyhounds' overtime victory.

Patsos, Manning and the Greyhounds will open the 2008-09 season on November 14 when Loyola opens a celebratory weekend to recognize the 100th anniversary of men's basketball at Loyola with a game against traditional rival Mount St. Mary's at Reitz Arena.

Courtesy of www.ncaa.com

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  POLAND   


Standings - DBE
DBE Standings
 1. Slask 0-0 
 2. Anwil 0-0 
 3. Sportino I. 0-0 
 4. Polonia 0-0 
 5. Politechnika 0-0 
 6. Gornik W. 0-0 
 7. AZS Koszalin 0-0 
 8. Kotwica 0-0 
 9. Turow 0-0 
 10. Atlas Stal 0-0 
 11. Energa Czarni 0-0 
 12. Znicz J. 0-0 
 13. Prokom 0-0 
 14. Polpharma 0-0 
 15. Basket 0-0 


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


Dynamo is interested in NBA player Pargo, Nikolaev signs with Enisey - by Eurobasket News
Dmitri Nikolaev (200-F-83) changed his Spartak St Petersburg to Enisey. The Russian player will be working again with his ex-coach Brazis as they spent two seasons in Spartak since 2004-2006.
Dmitri Nikolaev started his career in 1999-2000 for CSKA Moscow cadet team. In 2000-2001 he played for Polkovo St.Petersburg as well as in 2001-2002. In the season after Dmitri moved to Conti Group St.Petersburg and started in the first five for the team. In 2003-2004: Conti St.Petersburg he played in 46 games averaging 11,6ppg, 6.0rpg, 1.4apg, 1.3spg. In 2004-2005 moved to LenVO St.Petersburg and in 15games had 20,6ppg, 8.9rpg, 3.7apg, 1.3bpg, 2.1spg.
Spartak St.Petersburg saw Dimitri in the late 2004 and the season after in 27 games he averaged 5.7ppg, 2.5rpg, 2FGP: 53.0%, 3PT: 47.0%, FT: 76.0%.Dmitri Nikolaev improved his stats in 2006-2007: Spartak St.Petersburg having 5.7ppg, 3.3rpg, 2FGP: 46.0%, 3PT: 35.0%, FT: 66.0%. Last season saw him even in 9 games of FIBA EuroCup. He averaged 7.2ppg, 2.6rpg, 2FGP: 50%, 3PT: 42.1%, FT: 81%; and in Russian League had 4.8ppg, 2.5rpg.
Meanwhile Dynamo is interested in NBA player Jannero Pargo (187-G-79, agency: Priority Sports, college: Arkansas). He is one of the top players for the New Orleans in NBA and in the regular season had 8.1ppg, 1.6rpg, 2.4apg. He improved his stats in the Play-offs as in 12 games Jannero Pargo had 10.2ppg, 2.5rpg, 2.3apg. Eurobasket will follow this news and will let you know if we know more information.

*****************************************************
  SEBL   


Speedboys come from way down to steal Title from ServPro, in double-OT!! - by David Archer
#s#
#e#6


Cox


Spivey


Sloan


Kelley


McMullen

Johnson explodes for a dozen points after regulation...

Cartersville, GA - The Atlanta Speedboys fought back from despair three times to win a wild 133-127 double-overtime game, snatching the Golden Ball from a stunned ServPro of Rome team Sunday night at JH Morgan Gym. The Speedboys came in as the favorite, but quickly found themselves in holes at the beginning of both halfs of the game.

The Speedboys came in as the SEBL Metro A-Leagues South Division #1 seed. ServPro, the Norths #3 seed, was not enamored with the Speedboys 9-1 overall mark on the summer, nor by the fact that the Speedboys totally dismantled the Skyline team the night before 79-49. ServPro got out early and often and led 12-1 on treys by Jermaine Spivey (6'3''-G-72) and easy interior buckets by Larry Cox (6'10''-C-84). The Speedboys finally began to get some offensive production but they could not stop ServPros fast-paced scoring. Michael Sloan (6'4''-G) did all he could for Atlanta, as he scored 12 first half points. After falling down by as many as 15 in the first half, Atlanta had worked it back to knot it up at 52 on an Xavier Morton (6'9''-F/C-80, college: Clark Atlanta) lay-in with 1.9 on the clock. Spivey threw a baseball pass to Cox, who turned and drilled a three as the buzzer sounded.

In the second half, ServPro began crank things up when the Speedboys went cold. Brandon Byers and Cox were clearing the defensive boards of Atlantas missed shots, meanwhile Spencer Dixon was having the half of his life, at one point, scoring nine points in a row. ServPro went on a huge run and piled up a 20 point lead at 81-61. The Speedboys looked bewildered but kept playing. Still down by 16 (93-77) with 5:42 remaining, Atlanta went to a full-court zone press. It paid quick dividends when ServPro coughed the ball up twice allowing Sloan to get a bucket. Donovan McMullen (6'10''-C-85) got free for a dunk, trimming ServPros lead to 11. Dixon answered with a bucket for ServPro but then missed freethrows on the next trip. ServPro, without a deep bench, was beginning to buckle from fatigue and staunch defensive pressure. After missed jumpers and freethrows, the Speedboys went to big man Morton on four straight trips. He cashed in all four times. ServPro still led 100-94, but with 1:59 left it was now anybodys game. Jamal Johnson (6'7''-C-81) three pointer 25 seconds later gave Atlanta its first lead at 101-100. ServPros last 10 points in regulation were all freethrows, but they combined to go 5 of 10 and missed chances to ice the win. Sloan gave Atlanta an emphatic 108-107 lead with a driving slam. Brandon Kelley (5'11''-G-84) then gave them a 109-107 lead that Spivey had to even up with two freethrows just to send the game to overtime.

ServPro jumped out in the first OT, with Finley getting threethrows and two buckets, but Johnson answered with a three pointer. Byers had given ServPro a 120-116 lead, with little time on the clock. It looked like they would hold for the win, but Kelley jumped into defenders while shooting a three as time ticked out. The shrill of the referees whistle sounded as his desperation jumper fell through the net. He then stepped to the line and hit the freethrow to complete an amazing four-point play, sending the game to a second OT. Sloan and Johnson took over in the second extra period combining for three treys. Spivey valiantly tried to counter with seven points of his own but ServPro had run out of gas. Johnsons slam at the buzzer was icing on the cake for the Speedboys, who dedicated the game to their ailing coach, L.T. Jefferson.

Atlanta was led by Johnson's 31 points, while Sloan had 26, Morton 25, Kelley 24 Brewster 10, Ronald Lewis (6'0''-G) nine, and McMullen and Romel Wright four each. For Servpro, Dixon finished with 29, Finley 27 and Cox and Spivey 26 apiece. Byers also had 14 and Jay Nelson five.


After the game, Michael Sloan was named the 2008 SEBL Metro A-League Tournament MVP, while DOTS's David Graham (6'4''-G-85) of Georgetown College was named the 2008 SEBL Metro A-League's overall League Most Valuable Player (MVP).



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  SPAIN   


Bilbao inks Nikolaos Pappas - by Robert Mayor
Iurbentia Bilbao has reached an agreement with Greek guard Nikolaos Pappas (194-G-90, agency: FCM) that will play for Basque team next five seasons. Player that comes form Panellinios, was named MVP of the last Mannheim Tournament and is one of the most interesting Greek young players of the moment. The 18 years old guard took part also in the Nike Hoop Summit and was included in the ideal 5 of last junior European Championship.

The intention of the Spanish club is to loan Pappas this season in order to continue improving his game and bring it back next year.

Signings in ACB league - by Francisco Martinez
- Ricoh Manresa has signed Jose M. Balmon (204-C-81) for the next season. The forward played last year in Palma Aqua Mgica. He completes the inside battery of Manresa together with Assling, Ibaka, Rubio and Alzamora.

- CB Granada has announced the signing of Jorge Fernandez (180-G-89) as third playmaker of the team. He comes from the junior team. THe other two players at point guard position are Gianella and Cherry.

Market News - by Paul Nilsen
Barcelona continue to amass a wealth of talent this summer writes acb-basket after capturing former NBA player Andre Barrett (175-G-82, college: Seton Hall). The point guard from the New Yorker will be at Palau Blaugrana for two years unless Barca decide to cut the contract after one year.

Barrett is a great pick up for Barca having played 21 times in a LA Clippers vest. While he is under-sized for the NBA, this shouldnt be a problem in the ACB and he is quick down the floor and is s great passer with a mature outlook. Barca have signed someone that can also regularly knock down shots from outside showing versatility.

Meanwhile ViveMenorca have signed 27 year old Georgian forward Vladimir Boisa (209-F/C-81, agency: World Sport Agency) who also holds a Slovenian passport. The 2.09m who has Euroleague experience joins having spent last season in the Russian Superleague with Spartak Vladivostok before joining Aris in January of this year. Before that he was with Italian giants Siena. Boisa is being described as the final piece of the jigsaw for Menorca play-caller Ricard Casas.



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Women News

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


Australia post third win in a row - by Eurobasket News
Australia - South Korea 90:62

Australian National Team added one more win to the stats at the Olympic Games basketball tournament today. They had no problems en route to a comfortable victory over South Korea in the third round of action in Group A. Penny Taylor (185-F-81) scored 18 points, pulled down 7 boards and dished out 4 assists to pace the Opals. Suzy Batkovic (193-C-80) added 18 points and 10 boards to ensure the winning outcome. Beon Yeon Ha (182-F-80) answered with 21 points for Korean team as they dropped to 1-2 record. The Opals wasted little time early in the encounter and went on 12:6 lead to start it. They rolled confidently and enjoyed a 23:14 cushion at the first break. The world champs knocked down 12 unanswered points in the second frame and their advantage grew to 19 points. Korea however refused to fold and cut the margin to 14 points at halftime. Beon Yeon Ha fueled another rally from the Asian team as they came as close as 8 points early in the third frame. But the Opals came back to life pretty quickly and outscored their opponents 26:17 in the third period to build a 23-point buffer before the fourth quarter. Korea failed to answer and Australia breezed to the win late in the game. Lauren Jackson (196-F/C-81) secured 16 points and 6 boards for the winners. Jung Sun Min (186-C-74) had 11 points for Korea in defeat. Australia outrebounded their counterparts 44:25 and shot impressive 53% from the field. Korea answered with 37% accuracy of field goals.

Australia: Penny Taylor 18, Suzy Batkovic 18+10 boards, Lauren Jackson 16
South Korea: Beon Yeon Ha 21, Jung Sun Min 11

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  AUSTRIA - Women  


U18 EC, division B: Israel routs Austria in Skopje - by Eurobasket News
U18 Austria - U18 Israel 61-76

Israel registered surprisingly easy victory against Austria in the first game of Qualifying Round for 9th to 16th place. Both teams currently have 1-1 in Group G keeping chances to reach one of the first two positions.

Israel had wonderful 43.5% from behind the arc against Austria. Except of the very good defense, it could be the reason of this comfortable victory. Game is decided already in the first half. Coral Dolev (173-G-90) and Keren Nechama (173-F-90) opened this game in style. They led Israel at the offensive end which finally stopped on 29 points in this period. On the other side Lisa Richard (174-G-90) and her teammates scored 19. Israel intensified defense during the following ten minutes. Austrians couldn't adapt on it which resulted with just 7 points in this period. Israel also didn't have such brilliant offense but still 17 points was more than enough for huge plus 20 at the half time. After that moment Austrians woke up ending third frame 20-13 but it was too late for them. Interesting is that Austria had 14 rebounds more than Israel in this game.

Coral Dolev drained 21 points for the winners while Keren Nechama also shined adding 20 points and 6 rebounds. Shira Ben Barak (171-G-91) and Shira Shecht (180-F-91) helped their team with 11 points each. Lisa Richard was the best scorer in Austria netting 18 points and at the same time grabbing 4 rebounds. Sarah Schicher (185-C-90) also shined recording double-double, 17 points and 10 rebounds.


U18 Austria - U18 Israel 61-76
(19-29, 7-17, 20-13, 15-17)

Austria: Lisa Richard 18 (4 rebs), Sarah Schicher 17 (10 rebs)
Israel: Coral Dolev 21, Keren Nechama 20 (6 rebs), Shira Ben Barak 11 (5 as), Shira Shecht 11

*****************************************************
  BELARUS - Women  


Hungary U16 is victorious over Belarus U16 - by Eurobasket News
Belarus U16-Hungary U16 47:48

Hungary U16 celebrated the first win in the Qualifying Round Group F of the Termosteps U16 European Championship Women. The last game today saw a 48:47 victory over Belarus that remains winless in this round. Belarus got the ball back with less than a second but could not score. Manyoky led the winners with 18 points. Melinda Kesoi (178-F-92) collected 9 points and 10 rebounds, while Mansare added 6 points and 10 rebounds. Karalina Padshyvalava (164-G-92) and Aliaksandra Shymkaviak (166-G-92) top-scored for Belarus with 13 points.
It was Belarus to score first 4 points in the game and to remain in front until 7:3 lead. Hungary found its game and produced 17:1 spurt to finish it only in the second quarter. At first they won the opening 14:8 and had 22:8 by the end of it. Belarus reduced a bit and Musatava closed the first half at 26:18 for Hungary.
Mnyoky's triple helped push the advantage to 30:18 however Belarus replied with six consecutive points. Karalina Padshyvalava cut the deficit to 36:41 entering the last period. Musatava and Aliaksandra Shymkaviak made it 46:45 with 4 minutes to play in the game. Melinda Kesoi from the free throw line brought Hungary to 48:45 and Aliaksandra Shymkaviak's lay up showed 47:48. Belarus got the ball back with less than a second but could not score.

Belarus U16: Karalina Padshyvalava 13+9 rebs, Aliaksandra Shymkaviak 13
Hungary U16: Manyoky 18, Melinda Kesoi 9+10 rebs, Mansare 6+10 rebs

Italy cruise past Belarus in Poland - by Eurobasket News
Italy U16 - Belarus U16 65:48

Italian U16 National Team secured their fourth straight win at the European Championship in Katowice. They stunned Belarus in the Qualifying round opener in Group F. Debora Carangelo (168-G-94) and Cigliani led balanced offense with 12 points apiece. Belarus in the meantime fell to 0-3 record in the ladder. Italian team used a 14:2 rally in the first quarter to claim a 16:7 lead. Formica and Tessari closed the first term with 4 straight points and Italy led 20:9 after ten minutes of action. Italy opened the second period with a 7:0 run to stretch the margin. Italy dominated the scene in the second frame and drove to a comfortable 38:20 halftime advantage. Back-to-back trebles from Musatava early in the third frame gave Belarus hope. But Italy maintained the pressure and entered the fourth term up by 17 points. The gap proved unassailable for their opponents and Italy scored another impressive victory at the tournament. Masoni and Formica had 9 points each for the winners. Musatava answered with game-high 15 points for Belarus. Maryia Filonchyk (187-F-92) had 12 points and 7 rebounds in a losing effort.

Italy U16: Debora Carangelo 12, Cigliani 12, Masoni 9, Sabrina Formica 9
Belarus U16: Musatava 15, Maryia Filonchyk 12

Russia edge Belarus to gain third straight win - by Eurobasket News
Russia - Belarus 71:65

Russian National Team extended their winning streak at the Olympic Games in China. Today they beat Belarus for the third victory in Group A. Russia remained on top of the ladder, while Belarus dropped to 1-2 record in the standings. It was a close game from the start as neither team would not go till the final seconds. Russia managed to accumulate only a single-point advantage at the first intermission. A strong defensive effort helped the European champions to limit their opponents to 8 points in the second quarter and Russia established a 35:27 lead at halftime. Belarus replied with a 13:7 run at the start of the third quarter and came as close as 2 points from Russia. Svetlana Abrosimova (188-F-80, college: Connecticut) came up with a basket for Russia and fueled a 10:0 rally that put the team up for good. Belarus fought bravely in the fourth term and shaved the deficit to 4 points on several occasions. But the effort was in vain as Russia kept it cool and celebrated the third consecutive win at the event. Maria Stepanova (202-C-79) paced Russia with 13 points and 8 boards. Ilona Korstine (183-G-80) added 11 points and 9 boards, while Rebecca Hammon (168-G-77, college: Colorado St.) had 10 points in a win. Natalia Marchanka (170-G-79) responded with 16 points for Belarus. Yelena Leuchanka (196-C-83, college: W.Virginia) and Katsiaryna Snytsina (188-G/F-85) had 15 points apiece in defeat. Russia outrebounded Belarus 52:41 and held them to just 32% from the field. Russia will take on Brazil, while Belarus play against South Korea on Friday.

Russia: Maria Stepanova 13, Ilona Korstine 11, Rebecca Hammon 10
Belarus: Natalia Marchanka 16, Yelena Leuchanka 15, Katsiaryna Snytsina 15

*****************************************************
  BELGIUM - Women  


U18 EC, division B: Belgium too strong for Netherlands - by Eurobasket News
U18 Netherlands - U18 Belgium 59-87

Belgium cruises past Netherlands in the first game of the Qualifying Round improving to 1-1 in Group F. If Belgium succeeds to beat Hungary tomorrow it will have a nice chance to reach the semifinals of U18 European Championship division B in Skopje. On the other side this defeat is a big problem for Netherlands, which had a chance to secure a spot for the semis but it is not over yet.

Netherlands had slightly better performance in the first but Belgians woke up in the next quarter. After 37-34 at the middle of it, Belgium crated 11-3 run taking 3-point lead before the half time. Miete Celus (175-G/F-91) and Noemie Mayombo (168-G-91) stepped up for Belgium during the following ten minutes. They were almost unmistakable at the offensive end which resulted with pretty good 25 points for their team in third period. It was not enough for Belgians as they continued in the same rhythm until the end. Finally everything finished with comfortable 28-point victory.

Miete Celus demonstrated wonderful performance for the winning side. She drained 26 points for just 21 minutes having 10 of 12 for FG2, 1 of 2 from behind the arc and 3 of 4 from the FT line. Noemie Mayombo also shined for the winners adding 21 points and 5 assists while Jana Raman (183-F-91) and Lien Lentacker (181-C-90) stopped on 11 points each. Netherlands got the most from Chatilla Van Grinsven (187-F-89), who collected 15 points and 7 rebounds. Clara Van der Hoek (179-F-90) and Natalie Van den Adel (182-G-90) had 9 points apiece.


U18 Netherlands - U18 Belgium 59-87
(23-21, 16-21, 12-25, 8-20)

Netherlands: Chatilla Van Grinsven 15 (7 rebs), Clara Van der Hoek 9 (7 rebs), Natalie Van den Adel 9
Belgium: Miete Celus 26, Noemie Mayombo 21 (5 as), Jana Raman 11 (15 rebs), Lien Lentacker 11 (8 rebs)

Belgium surprise Lithuania to stay undefeated - by Eurobasket News
Belgium U16 - Lithuania U16 75:46

Belgian U16 National Team posted their 4th consecutive victory at the European Championship in Katowice. Yesterday they held off Lithuanian team to start the Qualifying round victoriously. Julie Vanloo (168-G-93) knocked down 17 points for Belgium as they looked too good for the Baltic team. Defense worked well for Belgium in the opening stanza as they built a 14:8 lead. Lithuania cut the deficit early in the second frame but just to see Meylemans and Devlaux connecting from beyond the arc for a 7-point Belgian advantage. Julie Vanloo capped the half with a trey and Belgium led 25:15 at the interval. Julie Vanloo netted 9 points in the first half of the third stanza and Belgian team exploded with a 17:6 run to open up a 20-point lead. Lithuania failed to answer in the reminder of the contest and had to surrender at the end. Lithuania thus fell to a 0-3 record in Group E. Meylemans scored 13 points for Belgium. Meesseman added 10 points for the winners. Paulina Zaveckaite had 12 points for Lithuania. Morkunaite and Svaryte contributed 8 points each in a losing case. Lithuania enjoyed a 44:35 advantage on the glass but converted only 35% from the field. Belgium also forced their opponents to as many as 34 turnovers.

Belgium U16: Julie Vanloo 17, Meylemans 13, Meesseman 10
Lithuania U16: Paulina Zaveckaite 12, Morkunaite 8, Svaryte 8

Turkey U16 writes down the first loss for Belgium U16 - by Eurobasket News
Turkey U16-Belgium U16 62:59

Belgium U16 suffered the first loss at the Termosteps U16 European Championship. Turkey wrote down the upset with 62:59 due to 20:11 in the last period. Cakir led the winners with 13 points and 7 rebounds. Emel Guler (187-F-92) collected 12 points and 14 rebounds, while Kalfali netted 11. Emma Meesseman (188-C-93) top-scored with 24 points and 12 rebounds in defeat.
Belgium easily scored first nine points in the game and grabbed 9:0 advantage. Turkey answered with 6-0 run as Ozturk made a lay-up to close it. With some back-to-back baskets Belgium was in front, 17:16 after the opening quarter. Turkey played better in the second but Emma Meesseman sparked an 11-2 answer and the game would be knotted at 33:33 at the break.
Again Emma Meesseman hit eight more points in a 12-2 surge to take a 45:38 advantage. Mestdagh scored two for 50:42 as the teams entered the last period. Her team led the game until the last three minutes of the game. Cakir brought Turkey to 58:57 with less than 2 minutes to play. Emel Guler scored last four points in the encounter as Turkey won the battle 62:59.

Turkey U16:Cakir 13+7 rebs, Emel Guler 12+14 rebs, Kalfali 11
Belgium U16:Emma Meesseman 24+12 rebs, De Bondt 10

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  BOSNIA - Women  


Finland wins the defensive opener - by Eurobasket News
Finland -Bosnia and Herzegovina 46:45

Finland won the defensive opener of their EuroBasket Women qualifying round in Espoo. Reetta Piipari (170-G-80, college: Xavier)'s jump-shot in the end lifted Finland to a 46:45 win over Bosnia and Herzegovina. Niina Laaksonen (185-F/C-85) paced all the winners with 11 points and 17 rebounds. Heta Korpivaara (188-G/F-84, college: Seton Hall) hit 10, while Minna Sten (191-F-87) scored 9. Azra Becirovic (182-G-80) ended up with 13 points in defeat, while Dragana Svitlica (190-C-88) scored 9.
Niina Laaksonen scored first two points in the game being applaud by more than 500 spectators who came to support their team. Finland was too good in the first period to take 17:8 after it. Minna Sten made it 23:12 from the arch as the hosts remained hot in the beginning of the second. Bosnia and Herzegovina however waited a bit and reduced 12-0 run to jump in front of the first half. Deura brought her team 26:25 advantage from the three-point line.
It was a defensive start and the whole third quarter as well. Both teams scored only 16 points as Bosnia and Herzegovina remained in front 35:32 after 30 minutes of the game. Finland trailed in the whole fourth quarter and could win due to the last shot. At first Niina Laaksonen scored for 44:45 with a minute to play and then Reetta Piipari brought the initial win for the hosts.

Finland:Niina Laaksonen 11+17 rebs, Heta Korpivaara 10, Minna Sten 9
Bosnia and Herzegovina:Azra Becirovic 13, Dragana Svitlica 9

U16 EC, division B: Slovakia remains perfect after Bosnia and Herzegovina - by Eurobasket News
U16 Bosnia and Herzegovina - U16 Slovak Republic 46-56

Slovakia took care for third victory in Preliminary Round of U16 European Championship division B in Bulgaria. This time Bosnia was faced with Slovakia's power ending competition in Group C winless. Naturally, as a top ranked team of Group C, Slovakia advanced to Group F of the Qualifying Round for 1st to 8th place. The good this for Slovakians is that victory against Netherlands will be transferred to Group F, where already are placed Finland and Romania. Bosnia moved to Group H of Qualifying Round for 9th to 16th place where its rivals will be Bosnia and Croatia while defeat against Estonia will be transferred.

Slovakians made many easy points under the rim in this game. At the same time they grabbed 51 rebounds matched with only 33 by Bosnia. With that kind of deference Bosnia could not resist too long. They succeeded to do it until the half time but then Martina Letkova (-F) and Marta Palenikova stepped up for Slovakia leading their team to 7-14 in third period. After lay-up by Martina Kissova (184-F-93) at the middle of the last frame, Slovakia set the score on 38-53. Natasa Kajtaz and Natasa Tomasovic were the only players in Bosnia which tried to do something more. Unfortunately to them, their teammates were not in a game mood. Slovakians played the rest of the game with routine keeping the top position in Preliminary Group C.

Martina Letkova was the best scorer for Slovakia netting 17 points. Marta Palenikova was behind her with 10 points and 7 boards. Natasa Kajtaz added 16 points and 5 rebounds for the loosing side while Natasa Tomasovic followed her with 8 points.


U16 Bosnia and Herzegovina - U16 Slovak Republic 46-56
(7-8, 17-16, 7-14, 15-18)

Bosnia: Natasa Kajtaz 16 (5 rebs), Natasa Tomasovic 8
Slovakia: Martina Letkova 17, Marta Palenikova 10 (7 rebs)

U18 EC, division B: Bosnia outplays England 66-52 - by Eurobasket News
U18 Bosnia and Herzegovina - U18 England 66-52

It was a joyful first day of the Qualifying Round for 9th to 16th place for Bosnians. They managed to beat England easier than anyone expected. As a remainder, Bosnians entered into this round transferring one defeat from the first stage but now they improved to 1-1 in Group H with a nice chance to grab one of the first two places. Situation is totally deferent with England as it currently has 0-2 in the same group.

Bosnia had impressive beginning. Anesa Hamsic (187-C-91) and Irena Vrancic (167-G-90) were on fire thus after almost five minutes the score was 13-0 for Bosnia. Later they extended lead to 22-5 what was a sign that Bosnians will most probably take this one. They slowed down during the next ten minutes which Charlotte Stoddart (177-F-90) and her teammates exploited coming of 30-25 at the half time. Third quarter was totally leveled. Actually, England succeeded to come on 37-36 once but very quick Bosnians grabbed back plus 5 how much they had on the half time. Game is decided at the half way of the last frame when Anesa Hamsic led 7-0 run for her team setting the score on 53-47. After that moment England succeeded to touch minus 3 but nothing more than that.

Anesa Hamsic was the key player for Bosnia in this game. She spent almost the entire time on the court managing to score 22 points and grab 8 boards. Irena Vrancic also had good performance adding 15 points and 6 rebounds while Aleksandra Stojanovic (173-G-90) helped her team with 12 points. Charlotte Stoddart collected 12 points and 6 rebounds in England while Hannah Shaw (192-F-90) finished the game with 11 points and 7 rebounds.


U18 Bosnia and Herzegovina - U18 England 66-52
(22-7, 8-18, 14-14, 22-13)

Bosnia: Anesa Hamsic 21 (8 rebs), Irena Vrancic 15 (6 rebs), Aleksandra Stojanovic 12
England: Charlotte Stoddart 12 (6 rebs), Hannah Shaw 11 (7 rebs)

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  BRAZIL - Women  


Anete Jekabsone-Zogota earns win for Latvia - by Eurobasket News
Latvia - Brazil 79:78

Anete Jekabsone-Zogota (176-F-83) nailed a go-ahead jumper with 2.7 seconds remaining in the encounter to bring Latvia to their initial win at the Olympic Games in China. They snatched a last-second win from Brazil sending the Latin American powerhouse to 0-3 record. Latvia remained hopeful about their quarterfinal birth. Meanwhile Brazil put themselves on the brink of falling out of the title race. They now must win against Russia and Belarus for a chance to clinch quarterfinal birth. Brazil confidently entered the game and gradually started to pile up the lead. They dominated in the paint and their physical style of play allowed them to gain a 23:14 advantage at the first intermission. Latvia however refused to fold and came back into contest in the second period. They stiffened defense and limited Brazil to 13 points in the quarter. It allowed the European team to trim the distance to 5 points at halftime 31:36. Anete Jekabsone-Zogotas pivotal performance paced Latvia in the third frame as they got within 2 points from Brazil heading into the fourth term. Latvia finally surged ahead in the fourth term and enjoyed a 2-point cushion with seconds left in regulation. Karen Gustavo Rocha (177-G-84) fired from downtown to set Brazil in front 78:77. Nevertheless Anete Jekabsone-Zogota had just enough time to drain a saving basket and brought victory to Latvia. Brazil had a chance to turn it for the better. Adriana Pinto (170-G-78) tried to win it at the buzzer but her jumper rimmed out sealing Latvian success. Anete Jekabsone-Zogota led all scorers with 25 points. Ieva Kublina (193-C-82, college: Virginia Tech) had 14 points and 7 boards, while Gunta Basko (181-F-80, college: Siena) notched 12 points for the winners. Soeli Zakrzeski (187-C/F-77) replied with 16 points and 9 boards for Brazil. Kelly Santos (192-C-79) provided 15 points and 9 boards in a losing effort.

Latvia: Anete Jekabsone-Zogota 25, Ieva Kublina 14, Gunta Basko 12
Brazil: Soeli Zakrzeski 16, Kelly Santos 15

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  BULGARIA - Women  


U16 EC, division B: Bulgaria grabs important win against Ireland - by Eurobasket News
U16 Ireland - U16 Bulgaria 47-57

It was a joyful last day of the Preliminary Round for the hosts of U16 European Championship division B. Bulgarians were better that Ireland booking a spot for the Qualifying Round for 1st to 8th place. Interesting is that Ireland also has the same score 3-1 but because of this victory Bulgaria get through Group A. It means that Bulgarians are immediately transferred to Group E together with Slovenia, Greece and Denmark. Ireland is placed into Group G of the Qualifying Round for 9th to 16th place where its rivals will be Portugal, England and Switzerland. Bulgaria starts competition at the second stage with score 0-1 because of the defeat against Slovenia while Ireland will go on with 1-0.

Ireland had slightly better performance at the beginning. Thanks to Clodagh Scannell (171-F-93) Ireland grabbed quick 13-5 after 5 minutes extending it later to 15-9. After that moment Bulgarian trio Vesela Kovacheva (163-G-92), Nora Georgieva and Pamela Decheva (177-G-92) stepped up ending this frame with 9-2 run. At the one point of the second frame Bulgarians set the margin to 25-30 but they succeeded to keep plus 3 until the half time. Third quarter was crucial period of the game. Ireland managed to score just 3 points for 10 minutes while Bulgaria netted 10. It means that the hosts of U16 EC division B had plus 10 before the last frame, what was more than enough for comfortable victory.

This time Vesela Kovacheva was the best player for the winning side netting 16 points. Nora Georgieva followed her with 14 while Pamela Decheva had 11 points, 8 boards and 4 steals. Lorraine Scanlon helped Ireland adding 18 points and fantastic 19 rebounds. Clodagh Scannell stopped on 17 points and 6 rebounds.


U16 Ireland - U16 Bulgaria 47-57
(17-18, 13-15, 3-10, 14-14)

Ireland: Lorraine Scanlon 18 (19 rebs), Clodagh Scannell 17 (6 rebs)
Bulgaria: Vesela Kovacheva 16, Nora Georgieva 14, Pamela Decheva 11 (8 rebs, 4 st)

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  CHINA - Women  


China too good for New Zealand - by Eurobasket News
China - New Zealand 80:63

China delivered a first-class performance today routing New Zealand in Group B of the Olympic Games basketball tournament. China rebounded after a stunning loss to the USA on Monday to have no problems against the Tall Ferns. Chen Nan (197-C-83) tallied massive 26 points and 17 boards to propel China past New Zealand today. China thus improved to 2-1 record and occupied the second spot in the ladder. New Zealand in the meantime were handed their second straight loss after a victorious start against Mali at the event. China dominated right from the start as they jumped to a 26:18 first-quarter lead. New Zealand scored only 13 points in the second frame and the hosts stretched the margin to as many as 17 points at halftime. The Kiwis were able to slow China down after the long break. However a breakthrough never came for the visitors. The teams exchanged the baskets throughout the third period and China maintained a 17-point distance between the sides. The situation did not change in the final stanza as the home team rolled confidently and celebrated an emphatic win at the end. Miao Li Jie (180-G-81) contributed 15 points, 6 boards and 6 assists for China. Bian Lan (182-G-86) added 10 points for the winners. Jillian Harmon (185-F-87) and Angela Marino (166-G-86) knocked down 14 points each for the Tall Ferns. Lisa Wallbutton (183-F-86) had 11 points in a losing case. China had an overwhelming advantage under the rims 46:29 and shot solid 44% from the field.

China: Chen Nan 26+17 boards, Miao Li Jie 15, Bian Lan 10
New Zealand: Jillian Harmon 14, Angela Marino 14

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  CROATIA - Women  


U16 EC, division B: Another thriller defeat for Croatia - by Eurobasket News
U16 Finland - U16 Croatia 59-57

Croatia failed to qualify for the next stage of U16 European Championship division B in Bulgaria. Croatians really weren't lucky on this championship as they suffered another tight defeat. As a reminder, Croatia was defeated in the first round against Romania 54-55. Anyway, Finland remained perfect after the last game of the first stage advancing to the Qualifying Round for 1st for 8th place. Finland is placed into Group F together with Romania, Slovakia and Netherlands. Victory against Romania will be transferred to Group F which means that Finland already has 1-0 and a nice chance to reach the semifinals.

Finland had furious opening quarter. Croatians started it showing their nerves which outcame with many mistakes as well a s missed shots. Janniina Koivunen (183-F-93) led her team to 18-6 after ten minutes. Croatians had much better performance during the next period. Ivana Blazevic and Nina Premasunac (184-F-92) dominated at the offensive end making few easy jump shots so the score was tied on 29-29 with 0:44 remaining in the first half. Thanks to successful jump shot by Janniina Koivunen Finland ended it 31-29. After totally leveled third frame, Finland made mini 5-2 run for 59-50. Croatia immediately answered creating 7-0 but Brkljacic missed a potentially winning lay-up for her team with just 4 seconds to go in the game.

Janniina Koivunen paced Finland to victory adding 14 points and 12 boards. Emma Valikoski had 14 points while Laura Juhola helped her team with 11 points. Ivana Blazevic was the best player in Croatia posting 19 points and grabbing 4 rebounds. Her from the last game against Montenegro Nina Premasunac this time stopped on 11 points and 14 rebounds.


U16 Finland - U16 Croatia 59-57
(18-6, 13-23, 16-16, 12-12)

Finland: Janniina Koivunen 14 (12 rebs), Emma Valikoski 14, Laura Juhola 11
Croatia: Ivana Blazevic 19 (4 rebs), Nina Premasunac 11 (14 rebs)

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  CZECH REPUBLIC - Women  


Czech Republic U16 beat Lithuania U16 for the first win in the Qualifying Round - by Eurobasket News
Czech Republic U16 -Lithuania U16 75:60

Czech Republic U16 beat Lithuania U16 for the first win in the Qualifying Round. The second half was the decisive in the game as in 14 as the Czech Republic improved to 1-3 in the Qualifying Round Group E. Karolina Elhotova (182-G-92) led the winners with 21 points and 5 rebounds. Martina Cepelkova (182-C-92) posted 16 and Jana Hausknechtova (178-G-92) scored 14. Neringa Skadaite top-scored for Lithuania with 14 points that dropped to 0-4. Grigalauskyte scored 9 points and made tremendous 18 rebounds as Santa Okockyte (175-G-92) had 9 points.
The Czechs surged ahead early 11-2 and took the lead in the game. Pudlakova made it 26:13 as the teams finished the first quarter in the encounter. Neringa Skadaite sparked an early run in the second quarter for Lithuania, bringing the lead down to 31:28 and the Czech cushion was 35:32.
Druskyte reduced the gap to 46:44 but Sedlackova from the arc closed the third at 53:46. Lithuania knotted the game at 56:56 however they could not jump in front. The Czechs went on a 19-4 run and sealed the initial win in the Qualifying Round in the tournament. Tomorrow the team will play with Turkey that will need the victory more than they do in order to advance to the semis. Lithuania will face Sweden in the last game of the group.

Czech Republic U16:Karolina Elhotova 21+5 rebs, Martina Cepelkova 16, Jana Hausknechtova 14
Lithuania U16: Neringa Skadaite 14, Grigalauskyte 9+18 rebs, Santa Okockyte 9

Spain outscore Czech Republic in Beijing - by Eurobasket News
Spain - Czech Republic 74:55

Spanish National team rebounded after the starting loss to China at the Olympic Games. Today they posted their second straight victory and boosted their ambitions for the Olympic tournament. Czechs in the meantime suffered their second loss in three games in Group B. Czech Republic used a sloppy form of Spain team early in the game to jump in front. They enjoyed a 20:11 lead at one point in the first quarter however Spaniards quickly bounced back. They went on a 17:7 run over the next 11 minutes and secured a 28:27 advantage at the interval. Amaya Valdemoro (184-F-76), Elisa Aguilar (178-G-76, college: George Washington) and Ana Montanana (186-F-80, college: George Washington) all connected from beyond the arc and Spain went on a decisive run in the third quarter. They outgunned Czech team 30:11 in the frame to establish a massive 20-point cushion before the fourth period. Czech Republic just managed to keep it up with Spain in the final term but never seriously threaten the advantage. Ana Montanana notched 20 points for Spain. Amaya Valdemoro added 13 points, while Isabel Sanchez (178-G-76) finished with 10 for the winning side. Eva Viteckova (190-F-82) chipped in 12 points for Czech Republic. Hana Machova (182-F/G-79) secured 11 points and 8 rebounds in defeat. Spain converted 50% from the field including 35% from beyond the arc. Spain outrebounded their opponents 34:29 and forced Czech team into 24 turnovers.

Spain: Ana Montanana 20, Amaya Valdemoro 13, Isabel Sanchez 10
Czech Republic: Eva Viteckova 12, Hana Machova 11

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  ESTONIA - Women  


U16 EC, division B: Netherlands edges Estonia booking a spot for the next stage - by Eurobasket News
U16 Estonia - U16 Netherlands 44-72

In a crucial game for the second stage of U16 European Championship division B in Bulgaria, Netherlands managed to register an easy victory over Estonia. Both teams had score 1-1 before this game but after it Netherlands jumped to the second position while Estonia became the third ranked team in Group C. Netherlands will together with Finland, Slovakia and Romania continue championship in Group F of the Qualifying Round for 1st to 8th place. Two top ranked teams from this group will advance to the semifinals. Estonia will have to be satisfied with a spot in Group H of the Qualifying Round for 9th to 16th place where already are placed Croatia, Bosnia and Montenegro.

Netherlands took control on Estonia from the early beginning. After opening ten minutes it already was plus 11 for Maxime Essenstam and her teammates. During the second frame Anika Koster shined for her team leading 10-0 run for 30-30. However, thanks to Rianne Hofstraat (183-C-92) Netherlands returned 4-point lead until the half time. Maxime Essenstam and Jamailah Adams put into the fifth gear after the breather smashing Estonia 9-23 in third quarter. After that moment it was clear that Estonia won't have any chance until the end. Interesting is that Estonians totally gave up scoring just 2 points during the last ten minutes.

Maxime Essenstam was the lading player of her team ending this game with 15 points and 11 boards. Jamailah Adams had 13 points and 4 boards while Rianne Hofstraat helped the winning side collecting 12 points, 5 rebounds and 4 assists. Estonia got the most from Annika Koster (185-C-92), who posted 12 points with 6 boards. Rosemary Ritz had 10 points and 5 rebounds.


U16 Estonia - U16 Netherlands 44-72
(10-21, 23-16, 9-23, 2-12)

Estonia: Annika Koster 12 (6 rebs), Rosemary Ritz 10 (5 rebs)
Netherlands: Maxime Essenstam 15 (11 rebs), Jamailah Adams 13 (4 rebs), Rianne Hofstraat 12 (5 rebs, 4 as)

U18 EC, division B: Greece outsmarts Estonia 48-46 for the semifinals - by Eurobasket News
U18 Greece - U18 Estonia 48-46

Greece is the second team from Group E which qualified for the semifinals of U18 European Championship in Skopje. Despite there is one more game to be played, Germany already booked a spot for the semis. Actually the last one, when Greece will meet Slovenia, will resolve the question which team will end the Qualifying Round on top of Group E. Estonia will fight with Germany for position number 3 but anyway both teams will continue championship in Classification Rounds.

It sounds strange but the loosing side Estonia dominated under the basket in this game. Estonians grabbed 35 rebounds while Greece had jus 28. At the same time Greece had miserable 7.1% from behind the arc making only 1 of 14 attempts. However, the biggest problem for Estonia were turnovers, as it players committed 23. After 24-24 in 15th minute Triin Teppo (185-C-90) and Kerttu Jallai (180-F-90) created 10-4 run for Estonia heading into the third quarter with plus 6. Both teams had many missed shots and bad decisions during the next ten minutes. Actually nether of these two teams scored any basket in three closing minutes of this period. Greece celebrated thanks to Aikaterini Kontali's lay-up with 1:38 remaining in the game. After that both teams had few chances to score but unsuccessful.

Interesting is that the winning team had just one player with double digits and it was Angeliki Nikolopoulou (175-G-91), who netted 12 points including 4 rebounds. Aikaterini Kontali and Ioanna Diela (175-F-90) was behind her netting 9 points apiece. Estonia had three players with more than ten points. Kerttu Jallai had 15 points, Triin Teppo 12 while Hass stopped exactly on 10.


U18 Greece - U18 Estonia 48-46
(20-15, 8-19, 9-5, 11-7)

Greece: Angeliki Nikolopoulou 12 (4 rebs), Aiketerini Kontali 9, Ioanna Diela 9
Estonia: Kerttu Jallai 15 (5 rebs), Triin Teppo 12 (9 rebs), Kerli Haas (179-F-90) 10 (8 rebs)

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  EUROCUP - Women  


Standings
EuroCup Standings
Group A
 1. AZS Gorzow 0-0 
 2. Dynamo M. 0-0 
 3. MBK Ruz. 0-0 
Group B
 1. Bnot Hash. 0-0 
 2. Dynamo K. 0-0 
 3. Challes 0-0 
 4. Sf.Gheorghe 0-0 
Group C
 1. Dunav 0-0 
 2. Rivas Futura 0-0 
 3. Elizur Ram. 0-0 
Group D
 1. BC Moscow 0-0 
 2. Szeged 0-0 
 3. Solna Vikings 0-0 
Group E
 1. Ragusa 0-0 
 2. Panionios 0-0 
 3. San Jose 0-0 
Group F
 1. Taranto 0-0 
 2. Gospic 0-0 
 3. AEL 0-0 
Group G
 1. Galatasaray 0-0 
 2. Mondeville 0-0 
 3. Buducnost 0-0 
Group H
 1. EBE Promoc. 0-0 
 2. Trutnov 0-0 
 3. Arad 0-0 
Group I
 1. Zeljeznicar 0-0 
 2. Esperides 0-0 
 3. Parma 0-0 
Group J
 1. Tarbes 0-0 
 2. Extrugasa 0-0 
 3. Olivais 0-0 
Group K
 1. Lemmink. 0-0 
 2. Hemofarm 0-0 
 3. Vologda 0-0 
 4. Vagos 0-0 
Group L
 1. Dexia 0-0 
 2. Botas 0-0 
 3. Dnipro 0-0 
Qualifying Round
 1. Alexandria 0-0 
 2. M.Kraj. BL 0-0 
 3. U.Neuch. 0-0 
 4. 08 0-0 
 5. BC Star 0-0 
 6. Aris H. 0-0 
 7. BBT Letz. 0-0 
 8. Athinaikos 0-0 
 9. Spartak N. 0-0 
 10. Foton 0-0 
 11. Crvena Zv. 0-0 
 12. Medvescak 0-0 
 13. Arvi 0-0 
 14. Cesis 0-0 
 15. Fl.Foxes 0-0 
 16. Targoviste 0-0 
 17. Ribera 0-0 
 18. CAB Madeira 0-0 
 19. Gran Canaria 0-0 
 20. Ramat H. 0-0 


*****************************************************
  EUROPEAN CHAMPIONSHIPS - Women  


Division A. Qualifying Round - by Eurobasket News

GROUP A


Ukraine-Great Britain 59:54

Ukraine won the opener of the EuroBasket Women Division A campaign tonight beating Great Britain 59:54 in their Group A campaign. The first half was enough to say in front of the game until the last seconds. Olexandra Gorbunova (186-F-86) led the winners with 18 points and 6 rebounds. Olena Zherzherunova (191-F-78, agency: LBM Management) and Iryna Biryuk (178-G-78) supported her with 13 points apiece as the spectators were glad for the win in the opener. Johannah Leedham (180-G/F-87) top-scored for the guests with 14 points. Butler collected 12 points and 8 rebounds, whilst Megan Moody (188-G/F-83, college: Tulsa) added 10.
Ukrainian side took the control from the middle of the opening quarter. Trailing 2:6 the hosts created a 15-0 surge at the end of the first half and led to 33:18 lead. Olexandra Gorbunova continued to ruin the opponent in the third quarter but Johannah Leedham cut to 52:39 after 30 minutes of the game. Megan Moody made it 55:48 and Johannah Leedham had the next four points to make it 57:52. Yegorova nailed a free throw for 6 points advantage with 17 seconds remaining. Mason replied with two the same from the line for 58:54. It was again Yegorova after the foul to seal the initial victory for the Ukrainian side.

In another game of the group Israel beat Lithuania 63:47. Germany will start their campaign in the next game.

Ukraine:Olexandra Gorbunova 18+6 rebs, Olena Zherzherunova 13, Iryna Biryuk 13
Great Britain: Johannah Leedham 14, Butler 12+8 rebs, Megan Moody 10





Israel-Lithuania 63:47

Israel won the opener of the their EuroBasket Women qualifying round as the team was too strong for the Baltic representative. Israel overcame Lithuania 63:47 with 11-3 in the second period. Shay Doron (175-G-85, college: Maryland) paced the winners with 16 points and 3 assists. Katia Abramzon (186-F/C-87) collected 15 points and 7 rebounds, while Suez Karni netted 10. Diana Razmaite (196-C-75, agency: LBM Management) top-scored for the guests with 10 points and Stakneviciene hit 9.
It was Israel to set up the rhythm in the beginning. After 15:13 Katia Abramzon and Shay Doron led to 22:17 closing the first period. Again Katia Abramzon made it 30:20 with less than 3 minutes in the first half. Cohen pulled her team to 33:20 advantage after the second period.
In the third quarter Lithuania came back to the game and produced 13:9 in it. Staugaitiene was the last to score in the period for 42:33 hosts lead. When Agne Ciudariene split a pair of free-throws with 6:40 to go the gap was down to five points at 43:38. The teams traded baskets and the gap was back at five, 52:47, after Diana Razmaite's jump shot with 2:30 to go. Selwyn's lay-up made it 54:47 and Katia Abramzon closed the game at 56:47. Israel won the opener of the their EuroBasket Women qualifying round and look forward to stay on top of the group.

Israel:Shay Doron 16+3 ast, Katia Abramzon 15+7 rebs, Suez Karni 10
Lithuania: Diana Razmaite 10, Stakneviciene 9

GROUP B
Poland-Italy 63:59
Agnieszka Bibrzycka (184-F/G-82, college: Abil.Christian) was the star of the EuroBasket Women qualifying opener for Poland. Gdansk saw Polish National team overcoming Italy 63:59 as Agnieszka Bibrzycka was unstoppable with 27 points. Anna Wielebnowska (188-C-78) and Paulina Pawlak (170-G-84) followed her with 7 points each as Poland was too good in the second quarter. Simona Ballardini (183-F-81) top-scored for Italian side with 17 points, while Marte Alexander (196-C-76, college: Arizona) and Kathrin Ress (193-F-85, college: Boston Coll.) added 8 apiece.
Polish team won the opening tip of the game and had 12:6 as Anna Wielebnowska made a jump-shot. Italy replied with some baskets in the end to tie at 20:20 as Marte Alexander scored two. The second quarter belonged to the hosts that were admired by Agnieszka Bibrzycka. They created 24:13 in the next 10 minutes for 44:33 lead at the break. Agnieszka Bibrzycka made it 46:35 and then 48:38. Down by 10 early in the final stanza of this Group B clash, Italy came to life. Pastore brought Italy back to 58:56 with 4.35 at the board. Kathrin Ress's jump-shot made it 60:59 with a minute to play. With 40 seconds left, Ewelina Kobryn split a pair of free throws to make it 63:59. It was a great game, but the hosts deserved the win more than the guests.

Poland: Agnieszka Bibrzycka 27, Anna Wielebnowska 7, Paulina Pawlak 7
Italy:Simona Ballardini 17, Marte Alexander, M. 8, Kathrin Ress 8

Finland -Bosnia and Herzegovina 46:45
Finland won the defensive opener of their EuroBasket Women qualifying round in Espoo. Reetta Piipari (170-G-80, college: Xavier)'s jump-shot in the end lifted Finland to a 46:45 win over Bosnia and Herzegovina. Niina Laaksonen (185-F/C-85) paced all the winners with 11 points and 17 rebounds. Heta Korpivaara (188-G/F-84, college: Seton Hall) hit 10, while Minna Sten (191-F-87) scored 9. Azra Becirovic (182-G-80) ended up with 13 points in defeat, while Dragana Svitlica (190-C-88) scored 9.
Niina Laaksonen scored first two points in the game being applaud by more than 500 spectators who came to support their team. Finland was too good in the first period to take 17:8 after it. Minna Sten made it 23:12 from the arch as the hosts remained hot in the beginning of the second. Bosnia and Herzegovina however waited a bit and reduced 12-0 run to jump in front of the first half. Deura brought her team 26:25 advantage from the three-point line.
It was a defensive start and the whole third quarter as well. Both teams scored only 16 points as Bosnia and Herzegovina remained in front 35:32 after 30 minutes of the game. Finland trailed in the whole fourth quarter and could win due to the last shot. At first Niina Laaksonen scored for 44:45 with a minute to play and then Reetta Piipari brought the initial win for the hosts.

Finland:Niina Laaksonen 11+17 rebs, Heta Korpivaara 10, Minna Sten 9
Bosnia and Herzegovina:Azra Becirovic 13, Dragana Svitlica 9

GROUP C
Slovak Republic-Hungary 66:47
Slovak Republic was stronger than Hungary at their EuroBasket Women qualifying campaign in Group C. The hosts edged the opponent 66:47 in the only game so far. Zuzana Zirkova (175-F/G-80) paced the winners with 20 points and 4 rebounds, including 6/12 three-pointers. Katarina Hrickova (180-F-80) nailed 9, while Lucia Kupcikova (184-F-84) and Bronislava Borovickova (170-G-80) scored 8 each. Anna Vajda (191-F/C-84) finished the night with 17 points and 10 rebounds for the guests and Zsofia Fegyverneky (178-G-84) added 11.
Bronislava Borovickova opened the game for the hosts that were supported by 1500 fans in the complex. In a tough opening boith squads stayed together but Horti gave Hungary 14:13 lead after the first 10 minutes of the game. The Slovak Republic soon got back in front but Hungary would not go away as the two team's traded blows until half-time, which came with the hosts ahead by one, 25:24.
Zuzana Zirkova's three was the first in the second half for 28:24. Again her triple made it plus 11, 41:30. Anna Vajda reduced to 43:35 after the thirty minutes of the campaign. Zuzana Zirkova's long-range effort with with 8:10 left in the game made it 52:39, allowing the Slovak Republic to cruise to the finish. Katarina Hrickova posted another two for 58:41 with 4 minutes in the game. Fabianova's three set up the final, 66:47 win for Slovak Republic.

Slovak Republic:Zuzana Zirkova 20+4 rebs, Katarina Hrickova 9, Lucia Kupcikova 8, Bronislava Borovickova 8
Hungary:Anna Vajda 17+10 rebs, Zsofia Fegyverneky 11

Croatia-France 55:59
France National team won the first game of their EuroBasket qualifying campaign. Croatian city Crikvenika and only 120 spectators could not help the local team against the guests. France was too tough in the first half and won 59:55. Endene Miyem (188-F-88) paced the winners with 15 points. Yacoubou-Dehoui collected 7 points and 10 rebounds, while Celine Dumerc (169-G-82), Emmeline Ndongue (194-F-83) and Dijon scored 7 each. Ana Lelas (183-G/F-83) ended up with 12 points and 6 rebounds in defeat and Marta Cakic (175-G-82) added 11.

It was a close start from both squads and only 1 point lead separated France from Croatia after the opening quarter. The guests grabbed 20:19 advantage in an offensive start of the game. Later on the first half saw both teams paying more attention to defense. France was again stronger and won the second period 11:4. It gave them 31:23 lead as the teams left the court for the break.

Croatia woke up in the third period and produced 17:10 in it. France went into the fourth quarter with just a one-point lead, 41:40, but never trailed despite the best efforts of their hosts, who pushed all the way to the death. The top-scorer for France pulled her team to 57:53 with a bit more than a minute in the game. Ivankovic reduced the deficit back to two points almost instantly with a jump shot. Celine Dumerc then made a pair from the charity stripe with to put France over the top.

Croatia:Ana Lelas 12 +6 rebs, Marta Cakic 11
France: Endene Miyem 15, Yacoubou-Dehoui 7+10 rebs, Dumerc 7, Ndongue 7, Dijon 7


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  EUROPEAN CHAMPIONSHIPS U16 - Women  


Division A. Qualifying Round Day 4 - by Eurobasket News
GROUP E
France U16 - Czech Republic U16 68:48

French U16 National Team celebrated their 4th straight win at the European Championship in Poland. They opened the Qualifying round with a confident win over Czech Republic and improved to 3-0 record in Group E. Czech Republic slipped to 0-3 record and stayed at the bottom of the ladder. Eleonore Grossemy (183-F-92) tallied 14 points and 7 rebounds to pace balanced French offense. The teams kept it close in the opening frame before France capped the quarter with 6:0 run and accumulated a 20:12 lead at the break. France opened a double-digit lead soon after the start of the second term and built a 40:27 cushion at the interval. France maintained the lead throughout the third quarter and entered the fourth one ahead by 11 points. French side tipped off the fourth term with a 13:0 rally and never looked back in the dying moments. Helena Akmouche (173-G-92) nailed 12 points for France. Agathe Degorces and Adja Konteh (176-F-92) scored 11 points apiece for the winners. Karolina Elhotova (179-G-92) and Cepelkova had 13 points each for Czech Republic. Kasparkova had 9 points in defeat. France dominated the boards 57:47 and forced Czechs into 21 turnovers. They also limited Czech Republic players to just 25% accuracy from the field.

France U16: Eleonore Grossemy 14, Helena Akmouche 12, Agathe Degorces 11, Adja Konteh 11
Czech Republic U16: Karolina Elhotova 13, Cepelkova 13

Belgium U16 - Lithuania U16 75:46
Belgian U16 National Team posted their 4th consecutive victory at the European Championship in Katowice. Yesterday they held off Lithuanian team to start the Qualifying round victoriously. Julie Vanloo (168-G-93) knocked down 17 points for Belgium as they looked too good for the Baltic team. Defense worked well for Belgium in the opening stanza as they built a 14:8 lead. Lithuania cut the deficit early in the second frame but just to see Meylemans and Devlaux connecting from beyond the arc for a 7-point Belgian advantage. Julie Vanloo capped the half with a trey and Belgium led 25:15 at the interval. Julie Vanloo netted 9 points in the first half of the third stanza and Belgian team exploded with a 17:6 run to open up a 20-point lead. Lithuania failed to answer in the reminder of the contest and had to surrender at the end. Lithuania thus fell to a 0-3 record in Group E. Meylemans scored 13 points for Belgium. Meesseman added 10 points for the winners. Paulina Zaveckaite had 12 points for Lithuania. Morkunaite and Svaryte contributed 8 points each in a losing case. Lithuania enjoyed a 44:35 advantage on the glass but converted only 35% from the field. Belgium also forced their opponents to as many as 34 turnovers.

Belgium U16: Julie Vanloo 17, Meylemans 13, Meesseman 10
Lithuania U16: Paulina Zaveckaite 12, Morkunaite 8, Svaryte 8

Sweden U16 - Turkey U16 68:50
Swedish U16 National Team began their European Championship Qualifying round campaign with a comfortable win over Turkey. Farhiya Abdi (186-F-92) stepped up for the Scandinavian team with 21 points and 14 boards and Sweden left no chance for their opponents. Sweden thus improved to 2-1 record, while dropping Turkey to 1-2 in Group E. Turkey jumped to a quick start as they piled up a 9:2 lead early in the game. However Sweden answered with a 20:3 run to establish a 22:12 lead at the end of the first period. Kalfali and Rana Derin (177-F-92) cut the gap to 4 points early in the second quarter but Sweden remained alert and rolled to a 40:31 advantage at halftime. They opened the third frame with a 6:0 run to gain a 15-point lead. Turkey failed to answer this time and Sweden headed into the fourth stanza up by 19 points. All Turkey could do was to cut the deficit to 15 points however they did not seriously threaten Swedish lead at the end. Salome Kabengano (178-G-92) and Amanda Zahui added 12 points each for Sweden. Hasahya Ngoie had 9 points in a winning case. Emel Guler (187-F-92) notched 12 points and 15 boards for Turkey. Rana Derin secured 11 points in defeat. Turkey will face Belgium, while Sweden will take on France today.

Sweden U16: Farhiya Abdi 21+14 boards, Salome Kabengano 12, Amanda Zahui 12
Turkey U16: Emel Guler 12+15 boards, Rana Derin 11

GROUP F
Italy U16 - Belarus U16 65:48
Italian U16 National Team secured their fourth straight win at the European Championship in Katowice. They stunned Belarus in the Qualifying round opener in Group F. Debora Carangelo (168-G-94) and Cigliani led balanced offense with 12 points apiece. Belarus in the meantime fell to 0-3 record in the ladder. Italian team used a 14:2 rally in the first quarter to claim a 16:7 lead. Formica and Tessari closed the first term with 4 straight points and Italy led 20:9 after ten minutes of action. Italy opened the second period with a 7:0 run to stretch the margin. Italy dominated the scene in the second frame and drove to a comfortable 38:20 halftime advantage. Back-to-back trebles from Musatava early in the third frame gave Belarus hope. But Italy maintained the pressure and entered the fourth term up by 17 points. The gap proved unassailable for their opponents and Italy scored another impressive victory at the tournament. Masoni and Formica had 9 points each for the winners. Musatava answered with game-high 15 points for Belarus. Maryia Filonchyk (187-F-92) had 12 points and 7 rebounds in a losing effort.

Italy U16: Debora Carangelo 12, Cigliani 12, Masoni 9, Sabrina Formica 9
Belarus U16: Musatava 15, Maryia Filonchyk 12

Hungary U16-Spain U16 31:73
Spain U16 recorded 3-0 after an easy win over Hungary U16 last night. Spain was too good for the opponent with 73:31 at the Termosteps U16 European Championship Women. Gil led the winners with 13 points and 10 rebounds. E Diaz netted 11, while Y Diaz added 8. Bettina Baksa (172-G-92) Bettina top-scored for Hungary with 11 points and Manyoky scored 5.
Spain started to ruin Hungary in the opening quarter. Gil scored seven points as Spain jumped ahead early 9:2.Spain increased to 17:5 but then Hungary made it 18:9 at the end of the first period. In the second quarter the latter player even and trailed 19:29 at the half.
Bettina Baksa kept Hungary within 33:23 however Queralt Casas and Diaz hit triples in a 17-0 surge to blow the game open 50:23. Mansare closed the third quarter at 52:27 with the superiority of Spain. Another quarter was the last one and another troublesome for Hunagry. Spain thrashed the opponent in the final stanza 21:4 and easily reached 3-0 record in the group. Hungary fell at 0-3 and remained on the bottom of the group.

Hungary U16: Bettina Baksa 11, Manyoky 5
Spain U16:Gil 13+10 rebs, E Diaz 11, Y Diaz 8

Poland U16 - Russia U16 83:77
Polish U16 Team scored an important win over Russian counterparts at the start of the Qualifying round at the European Championship. Poland thus climbed to 2-1 record in Group F and remained hopeful about their semifinal ambitions. Russia fell to 1-2 record and stayed at the 4th spot in the ladder. Monika Jasnowska (181-F-92) and Bandyk stepped up for the hosts in the game as they poured in 21 points apiece to carry Poland to a hard-fought win. Russia used trebles from Minaeva and Kseniya Efimova (173-F/G) to accumulate an 8:2 lead early in the first frame. Poland stayed close and surged ahead following a three-pointer from Zietara late in the quarter. However Sazonova and Arzina sealed the outcome at 20:17 for Russia. Maksimova opened the second frame with a trey and Russia kept on maintaining the lead. Poland would not go though and the home team trailed by just 3 points at the interval. Polish team tipped off the second half with an 8:1 surge to take over in the game. They led throughout the third quarter but Stepanova, Sazonova and Kseniya Efimova closed the quarter with 6 points in a row and Russia entered the final stanza leading by 5 points. Bandyk nailed 7 points in the first five minutes of the fourth term and Poland regained the advantage at 70:69. Monika Jasnowska, Bandyk and Kowalska lifted Poland to a 5-point lead and Russia failed to deny in the dying moments. Kowalska scored 16 points for the winners. Kseniya Efimova answered with game-high 22 points for Russia. Stepanova had 13 points and 11 boards in defeat.

Poland U16: Monika Jasnowska 21, Bandyk 21, Anna Kowalska 16
Russia U16: Kseniya Efimova 22, Stepanova 13+11 boards

Classification Round
Serbia U16 - Ukraine U16 72:58
Serbian U16 National Team finally got things going at the European Championship in Poland. They held off Ukraine earlier today to post their first success at the tournament. Snezana Colic (165-G-92) knocked down 20 points and Serbia improved to 1-0 record in the classification round. Ukraine in the meantime suffered their 4th straight loss and appeared on the cusp of being relegated into Division B next year. Serbia used a massive rally in the first frame to build a safe cushion. They went on a 13:0 run midway through the quarter and later enjoyed a 29:11 lead after ten minutes of action. Kovecevic and Karakasevic kept Serbia in front with three-pointers early in the second period. Chek nailed 6 points for Ukraine at the end of the half and they trailed by 11 points at sides change. Darya Zavidna (178-G-93) and Vyshniak opened the second half with 6 straight points and Ukraine came as close as 5 points. Serbia iced the effort with a three-pointer from Rajic but Ukraine remained close throughout the frame and trimmed the distance to 4 points with one quarter left in the game. Snezana Colic and Dragicevic tipped off the fourth term with 7 consecutive points and Serbia were back in the driving seat. They wisely kept Ukraine at bay during the reminder of the contest and celebrated an important victory at the end. Karakasevic produced 14 points and 10 boards for Serbia. Dragicevic had 13 points and 9 rebounds for the winners. Darya Zavidna answered with 21 points and 10 boards for Ukraine. Starikh chipped in 11 points in a losing effort.

Serbia U16: Snezana Colic 20, Karakasevic 14+10 boards, Dragicevic 13
Ukraine U16: Darya Zavidna 21+10 boards, Starikh 11

Germany U16 - Latvia U16 66:56
Germany scored their first win at the U16 European Championship held in Poland these days. They defeated Latvia at the start of the classification round and stepped closer to securing the spot in Division A for the next year. Sonja Greinacher (185-C-92) stepped up for Germany with 20 points and led the team to their initial success. Latvia opened the game with 5 straight points but Germany denied the deficit late in the period. Sonja Greinacher capped the quarter with 4 straight points and led the team to an 18:15 advantage at the first break. Latvia kept it close throughout the second frame before Finja Schaake (175-G/F-92) and Martinuis completed the first half with 7 points in a row for Germany as they accumulated a 40:31 advantage at the interval. Latvia refused to go away and stayed within striking distance in the third stanza. They entered the fourth term trailing by just 4 points. Linda Pagrode (167-G-92) began the fourth quarter with a three-pointer to minimize the deficit. Finja Schaake and Martinius once again teamed up for a bunch of free throws to give German team some breathing space at 62:54 with 40 seconds remaining in regulation. Linda Pagrode trimmed the distance with accurate freebies however Hermann knocked down 4 points in the dying seconds to seal the winning outcome for Germany. Finja Schaake contributed 18 points for Germany in the win. Laura Ozolina (175-G/F-92) answered with 17 points for Latvia. Linda Pagrode had 15 points and 6 rebounds in defeat. Germany will next take on Ukraine, while Latvia face Serbia on Thursday.

Germany U16: Sonja Greinacher 20, Finja Schaake 18, Hermann 8
Latvia U16: Laura Ozolina 17, Linda Pagrode 15


Division A. Qualifying Round Day 5 - by Eurobasket News

GROUP E

France U16-Sweden U16 80:36

France U16 reached the semifinals of Termosteps U16 European Championship. In the first game of the day the team demolished Sweden 80:36 and sent them to 2-2 record. A 24:3 was too much for the opponent in the third quarter as France nailed 24. Florine Basque (184-F-92) (184-F-92) paced all the winners with 18 points. Grossemy netted 10, while Diallo scored 9. Farhiya Abdi (186-F-92) top-scored for Sweden with 14 points and 9 rebounds as Salome Kabengano (178-G-92), Zahui and Gustavsson scored 4 each.
France scored first five points of the game but had only 11:8 lead in the opening tip. Aulnette was the last to score in the first quarter for 20:10 advantage. Farhiya Abdi converted a three-point play to trim the deficit to 22:15 early in the second but Florine Basque hit for seven points as France closed the half on a 18-8 run for a 40:23 lead at intermission.
In the third quarter there was only one team dominating the court, France. The favorite produced 17-0 run to make it 57:25. Farhiya Abdi scored for 64:26 at the end of the third period. France used another 16-10 in the last quarter and easily won the encounter. Diallo's jump shot set up the final, 80:36 margin.

France U16: Florine Basque 18, Grossemy 10, Diallo 9
Sweden U16: Farhiya Abdi 14+9 rebs, Salome Kabengano 4, Zahui 4, Gustavsson 4



Turkey U16-Belgium U16 62:59

Belgium U16 suffered the first loss at the Termosteps U16 European Championship. Turkey wrote down the upset with 62:59 due to 20:11 in the last period. Cakir led the winners with 13 points and 7 rebounds. Emel Guler (187-F-92) collected 12 points and 14 rebounds, while Kalfali netted 11. Emma Meesseman (188-C-93) top-scored with 24 points and 12 rebounds in defeat.
Belgium easily scored first nine points in the game and grabbed 9:0 advantage. Turkey answered with 6-0 run as Ozturk made a lay-up to close it. With some back-to-back baskets Belgium was in front, 17:16 after the opening quarter. Turkey played better in the second but Emma Meesseman sparked an 11-2 answer and the game would be knotted at 33:33 at the break.
Again Emma Meesseman hit eight more points in a 12-2 surge to take a 45:38 advantage. Mestdagh scored two for 50:42 as the teams entered the last period. Her team led the game until the last three minutes of the game. Cakir brought Turkey to 58:57 with less than 2 minutes to play. Emel Guler scored last four points in the encounter as Turkey won the battle 62:59.

Turkey U16:Cakir 13+7 rebs, Emel Guler 12+14 rebs, Kalfali 11
Belgium U16:Emma Meesseman 24+12 rebs, De Bondt 10

Czech Republic U16 -Lithuania U16 75:60
Czech Republic U16 beat Lithuania U16 for the first win in the Qualifying Round. The second half was the decisive in the game as in 14 as the Czech Republic improved to 1-3 in the Qualifying Round Group E. Karolina Elhotova (182-G-92) led the winners with 21 points and 5 rebounds. Martina Cepelkova (182-C-92) posted 16 and Jana Hausknechtova (178-G-92) scored 14. Neringa Skadaite top-scored for Lithuania with 14 points that dropped to 0-4. Grigalauskyte scored 9 points and made tremendous 18 rebounds as Santa Okockyte (175-G-92) had 9 points.
The Czechs surged ahead early 11-2 and took the lead in the game. Pudlakova made it 26:13 as the teams finished the first quarter in the encounter. Neringa Skadaite sparked an early run in the second quarter for Lithuania, bringing the lead down to 31:28 and the Czech cushion was 35:32.
Druskyte reduced the gap to 46:44 but Sedlackova from the arc closed the third at 53:46. Lithuania knotted the game at 56:56 however they could not jump in front. The Czechs went on a 19-4 run and sealed the initial win in the Qualifying Round in the tournament. Tomorrow the team will play with Turkey that will need the victory more than they do in order to advance to the semis. Lithuania will face Sweden in the last game of the group.

Czech Republic U16:Karolina Elhotova 21+5 rebs, Martina Cepelkova 16, Jana Hausknechtova 14
Lithuania U16: Neringa Skadaite 14, Grigalauskyte 9+18 rebs, Santa Okockyte 9

GROUP F
Italy U16-Russia U16 54:50
Italy U16 remained perfect at the Termosteps U16 European Championship Women. Cigliani and Carangelo secured Italy a 54:50 victory over Russia in the first game of Group F. Cigliani paced the winners with 16 points. Marta Masoni (183-F-93) collected 10 points and 8 rebounds, while Formica added 7. Kseniya Efimova (173-F/G) top-scored for Russia with 20 points as her team fell at 1-3. Stolyar, Gumennaya and Kubynina each scored 6 points in the losing effort.
Minaeva's lay-up was the first productive in the game, but Italy took 3:2 lead. Russia played better in the opening tip and grabbed 9:3 in the middle of the quarter. Cigliani knocked down two more long balls as Italy trailed 12:10 after one period. Russia controlled the game in the second quarter until the last 3 minutes as Italy bounced back and stepped in front. Marta Masoni's three gave Italy the lead again and then Formica closed the half at 26:22.
In the beginning of the third quarter a 7-1 from Italy made it for a 38:33 advantage. Russia however answered with 9-0 run for a 42:38 lead. In the end of the game the last time score was tied at 47:47 and then 50:50. For Russian squad it was the last points in the game, but Italy scored 4 more for the victory. Cigliani and Carangelo secured Italy a 54:50 win.

Italy U16:Cigliani 16, Marta Masoni 10+8 rebs, Formica 7
Russia U16:Kseniya Efimova 20, Stolyar 6, Gumennaya 6, Kubynina 6

Poland U16-Spain U16 40:67
Spain U16 used a defensive style over Poland to advance to the semifinal of the Termosteps U16 European Championship Women. Spain won 67:40 to reach 4-0 record in the Group F. Diaz and Delgado paced the winners with 11 points apiece. Bandyk netted 11 in defeat, while Zietara added 7. Hosts Poland dropped to 2-2 in the group and remain in the middle of the group.
Spain grabbed the lead from the early start and Poland could only tie at 4:4. Later on the hosts could do nothing against one of the favorites for gold. Delgado led a 10-0 charge for a 22:11 cushion after one quarter. Kuras reduced to 18:22 but then Spain spurt again for a bigger deficit. Jose Ignacio Hernandez 's team had a 35:24 advantage as both teams disappeared in the lockers.
In the third quarter Poland scored only 6 points and let the opponent to double what they scored. Diaz from the arc made it 47:30 after 30 minutes played. In the last period the game remained in the same current as Spain dominated the court. They won the period 20:10 that gave them 67:40 as total.

Poland U16:Bandyk 11, Zietara 7
Spain U16: Diaz 11, Delgado 11

Belarus U16-Hungary U16 47:48
Hungary U16 celebrated the first win in the Qualifying Round Group F of the Termosteps U16 European Championship Women. The last game today saw a 48:47 victory over Belarus that remains winless in this round. Belarus got the ball back with less than a second but could not score. Manyoky led the winners with 18 points. Melinda Kesoi (178-F-92) collected 9 points and 10 rebounds, while Mansare added 6 points and 10 rebounds. Karalina Padshyvalava (164-G-92) and Aliaksandra Shymkaviak (166-G-92) top-scored for Belarus with 13 points.
It was Belarus to score first 4 points in the game and to remain in front until 7:3 lead. Hungary found its game and produced 17:1 spurt to finish it only in the second quarter. At first they won the opening 14:8 and had 22:8 by the end of it. Belarus reduced a bit and Musatava closed the first half at 26:18 for Hungary.
Mnyoky's triple helped push the advantage to 30:18 however Belarus replied with six consecutive points. Karalina Padshyvalava cut the deficit to 36:41 entering the last period. Musatava and Aliaksandra Shymkaviak made it 46:45 with 4 minutes to play in the game. Melinda Kesoi from the free throw line brought Hungary to 48:45 and Aliaksandra Shymkaviak's lay up showed 47:48. Belarus got the ball back with less than a second but could not score.

Belarus U16: Karalina Padshyvalava 13+9 rebs, Aliaksandra Shymkaviak 13
Hungary U16: Manyoky 18, Melinda Kesoi 9+10 rebs, Mansare 6+10 rebs


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  FINLAND - Women  


U16 EC, division B: Another thriller defeat for Croatia - by Eurobasket News
U16 Finland - U16 Croatia 59-57

Croatia failed to qualify for the next stage of U16 European Championship division B in Bulgaria. Croatians really weren't lucky on this championship as they suffered another tight defeat. As a reminder, Croatia was defeated in the first round against Romania 54-55. Anyway, Finland remained perfect after the last game of the first stage advancing to the Qualifying Round for 1st for 8th place. Finland is placed into Group F together with Romania, Slovakia and Netherlands. Victory against Romania will be transferred to Group F which means that Finland already has 1-0 and a nice chance to reach the semifinals.

Finland had furious opening quarter. Croatians started it showing their nerves which outcame with many mistakes as well a s missed shots. Janniina Koivunen (183-F-93) led her team to 18-6 after ten minutes. Croatians had much better performance during the next period. Ivana Blazevic and Nina Premasunac (184-F-92) dominated at the offensive end making few easy jump shots so the score was tied on 29-29 with 0:44 remaining in the first half. Thanks to successful jump shot by Janniina Koivunen Finland ended it 31-29. After totally leveled third frame, Finland made mini 5-2 run for 59-50. Croatia immediately answered creating 7-0 but Brkljacic missed a potentially winning lay-up for her team with just 4 seconds to go in the game.

Janniina Koivunen paced Finland to victory adding 14 points and 12 boards. Emma Valikoski had 14 points while Laura Juhola helped her team with 11 points. Ivana Blazevic was the best player in Croatia posting 19 points and grabbing 4 rebounds. Her from the last game against Montenegro Nina Premasunac this time stopped on 11 points and 14 rebounds.


U16 Finland - U16 Croatia 59-57
(18-6, 13-23, 16-16, 12-12)

Finland: Janniina Koivunen 14 (12 rebs), Emma Valikoski 14, Laura Juhola 11
Croatia: Ivana Blazevic 19 (4 rebs), Nina Premasunac 11 (14 rebs)

U18 EC, division B: Ireland better that Finland thanks to last ten minutes - by Eurobasket News
U18 Finland - U18 Ireland 53-59

Ireland was better than Finland in very exciting game. Finland also had a chance to take this one but Ireland showed much better performance in the last quarter. With this victory Ireland improved its score on 2-0 in Group H while Finland dropped on 1-1.

After totally leveled first frame, Ireland created 7-0 run at the middle of the next one. Christine O'Gorman (178-C-90) was the leading player at that time netting five of Ireland's 7 points in this run. Later Ireland touched plus 8 but thanks to Maria Salmio (182-F-91) Finland went on the half time with minus 6. Third frame brought totally different picture on the court. Finland was the team which showed better performance. They ended this period making mini 4-0 run coming on just minus one before the last ten minutes. Later they succeeded to grab five-point lead mostly owing to Titta Lepisto (184-F/C-90) but Claire Rockall (168-G-90) and Sinead O'Reilly (180-F-90) led crucial 11-0 run for their team.

Claire Rockall was the leading scorer for the winning side with 14 points. At the same time she grabbed 9 more rebounds. Christine O'Gorman and Sinead O'Reilly registered double-double. The first one had 12 points and 11 rebounds while Sinead O'Reilly (180-F-90) had one board less. Kia Ignatius (176-G-90) added 12 points for Finland while Titta Lepisto had 10 points and 6 rebounds.


U18 Finland - U18 Ireland 53-59
(12-12, 10-16, 18-13, 13-18)

Finland: Kia Ignatius 12, Titta Lepisto 10 (6 rebs)
Ireland: Claire Rockall 14 (9 rebs), Christine O'Gorman 12 (11 rebs), Sinead O'Reilly 12 (10 rebs)

EUROBASKET: Finland won the opener game - by Rauno Hurmalainen
EuroBasket, Women 2009 - Division A, Group B: Espoo, Finland 13.8.: Finland - Bosnia-Herzegovina 46-45 (25-26). Quarters: 17-8, 8-18, 7-9, 14-10.
Finland won the qualifying opener by one and the winning pts came from G Reetta Piipari, when there was 12 seconds to go. F: Niina Laaksonen (185-F/C-85) 11/17,
Heta Korpivaara 10/6, Tiina Sten 9/4, Michaela Moua 8/7, Reetta Piipari 6/4, Sanna Helenius 2/2. B-H: Azra Becirovic (182-G-80) 13/6.
Group B, Gdansk, Poland 13.8.: Poland - Italy 63-59 (44-33). Quarters: 20-20, 24-13, 9-12, 10-14. P: Agnieszka Bibrzycka (184-F/G-82, college: Abil.Christian) 27. I: Simona Ballardini (183-F-81) 17.

Finland wins the defensive opener - by Eurobasket News
Finland -Bosnia and Herzegovina 46:45

Finland won the defensive opener of their EuroBasket Women qualifying round in Espoo. Reetta Piipari (170-G-80, college: Xavier)'s jump-shot in the end lifted Finland to a 46:45 win over Bosnia and Herzegovina. Niina Laaksonen (185-F/C-85) paced all the winners with 11 points and 17 rebounds. Heta Korpivaara (188-G/F-84, college: Seton Hall) hit 10, while Minna Sten (191-F-87) scored 9. Azra Becirovic (182-G-80) ended up with 13 points in defeat, while Dragana Svitlica (190-C-88) scored 9.
Niina Laaksonen scored first two points in the game being applaud by more than 500 spectators who came to support their team. Finland was too good in the first period to take 17:8 after it. Minna Sten made it 23:12 from the arch as the hosts remained hot in the beginning of the second. Bosnia and Herzegovina however waited a bit and reduced 12-0 run to jump in front of the first half. Deura brought her team 26:25 advantage from the three-point line.
It was a defensive start and the whole third quarter as well. Both teams scored only 16 points as Bosnia and Herzegovina remained in front 35:32 after 30 minutes of the game. Finland trailed in the whole fourth quarter and could win due to the last shot. At first Niina Laaksonen scored for 44:45 with a minute to play and then Reetta Piipari brought the initial win for the hosts.

Finland:Niina Laaksonen 11+17 rebs, Heta Korpivaara 10, Minna Sten 9
Bosnia and Herzegovina:Azra Becirovic 13, Dragana Svitlica 9

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  FRANCE - Women  


France U16 enters the semis - by Eurobasket News
France U16-Sweden U16 80:36

France U16 reached the semifinals of Termosteps U16 European Championship. In the first game of the day the team demolished Sweden 80:36 and sent them to 2-2 record. A 24:3 was too much for the opponent in the third quarter as France nailed 24. Florine Basque (184-F-92) paced all the winners with 18 points. Grossemy netted 10, while Diallo scored 9. Farhiya Abdi (186-F-92) top-scored for Sweden with 14 points and 9 rebounds as Salome Kabengano (178-G-92), Zahui and Gustavsson scored 4 each.
France scored first five points of the game but had only 11:8 lead in the opening tip. Aulnette was the last to score in the first quarter for 20:10 advantage. Farhiya Abdi converted a three-point play to trim the deficit to 22:15 early in the second but Florine Basque hit for seven points as France closed the half on a 18-8 run for a 40:23 lead at intermission.
In the third quarter there was only one team dominating the court, France. The favorite produced 17-0 run to make it 57:25. Farhiya Abdi scored for 64:26 at the end of the third period. France used another 16-10 in the last quarter and easily won the encounter. Diallo's jump shot set up the final, 80:36 margin.

France U16: Florine Basque 18, Grossemy 10, Diallo 9
Sweden U16: Farhiya Abdi 14+9 rebs, Salome Kabengano 4, Zahui 4, Gustavsson 4

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  GERMANY - Women  


U18 EC, division B: Slovenia secures semifinals in Skopje - by Eurobasket News
U18 Germany - U18 Slovenia 50-78

Slovenia didn't have to work very hard in order to beat Germany in the first day of the Qualifying Round on U18 European Championship division B in Skopje. As a reminder, Slovenia advanced to the second stage transferring one victory from the Preliminary Round which means that Slovenians improved to 2-0, what is already enough for the semifinals. In the last game of the Qualifying Round Slovenia will meet Greece fighting for the first place in Group E. On the other hand, with this defeat Germany lost all chances to reach one of the medals.

Slovenia had three players in a great mood in this game. After not so brilliant first half, Slovenians demonstrated impressive performance during the next 20 minutes. Nika Baric (168-G-92), Teja Oblak (172-G-90) and Ines Kerin (172-G-90) were on fire. Germans couldn't find a solution how to stop this trio which led Slovenia to 10-24 in this period. There was a ten minutes to go and Slovenia already had comfortable 16-point lead. Germany couldn't recover from this shock continuing to fall down even more. Slovenians ended this game in style making 11-1 run and booking a spot for the semifinals.

Nika Baric was unstoppable today. She spent 35 minutes on court adding 19 points, 6 boards and 8 assists. Teja Oblak also shined scoring 19 points while Ines Kerin had one points less than her. Pia Mankertz (170-G-90) was the best scorer for the loosing team with 15 points. Leonie Bleker had 12 points and 5 rebounds. In the last game of the Qualifying Round Germany will meet Estonia.


U18 Germany - U18 Slovenia 50-78
(11-17, 15-11, 10-24, 14-26)

Germany: Pia Mankertz 15, Leonie Bleker 12 (5 rebs)
Slovenia: Nika Baric 19 (6 rebs, 8 as), Teja Oblak 19, Ines Kerin 18

Newcomer BG Donau-Ries places Sarah Wilson on first import spot - by Cornelius Damm
1. DBBL Newcomer BG Donau-Ries who returned to Germanys premier league after a five year abstinence announced the signing of Sarah Wilson (188-F-86). The South German club showers the 6'2' Forward/Center with great expectations. Wilson who scored 13.2 PPG shooting .450 from the field and .625 from the foul line in her senior year shall replace Mirijam Unger (193-C/F-88) who took off to Marburg where she will start her university studies. Donau-Ries is hoping that Wilson will be dominant in the paint and control the boards just like she did in college where she averaged 6.9 RPG this season. Wilson also finished as Niagaras all-time block leader, with 137 career blocks in her four years of eligibility.

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  GREECE - Women  


U18 EC, division B: Greece outsmarts Estonia 48-46 for the semifinals - by Eurobasket News
U18 Greece - U18 Estonia 48-46

Greece is the second team from Group E which qualified for the semifinals of U18 European Championship in Skopje. Despite there is one more game to be played, Germany already booked a spot for the semis. Actually the last one, when Greece will meet Slovenia, will resolve the question which team will end the Qualifying Round on top of Group E. Estonia will fight with Germany for position number 3 but anyway both teams will continue championship in Classification Rounds.

It sounds strange but the loosing side Estonia dominated under the basket in this game. Estonians grabbed 35 rebounds while Greece had jus 28. At the same time Greece had miserable 7.1% from behind the arc making only 1 of 14 attempts. However, the biggest problem for Estonia were turnovers, as it players committed 23. After 24-24 in 15th minute Triin Teppo (185-C-90) and Kerttu Jallai (180-F-90) created 10-4 run for Estonia heading into the third quarter with plus 6. Both teams had many missed shots and bad decisions during the next ten minutes. Actually nether of these two teams scored any basket in three closing minutes of this period. Greece celebrated thanks to Aikaterini Kontali's lay-up with 1:38 remaining in the game. After that both teams had few chances to score but unsuccessful.

Interesting is that the winning team had just one player with double digits and it was Angeliki Nikolopoulou (175-G-91), who netted 12 points including 4 rebounds. Aikaterini Kontali and Ioanna Diela (175-F-90) was behind her netting 9 points apiece. Estonia had three players with more than ten points. Kerttu Jallai had 15 points, Triin Teppo 12 while Hass stopped exactly on 10.


U18 Greece - U18 Estonia 48-46
(20-15, 8-19, 9-5, 11-7)

Greece: Angeliki Nikolopoulou 12 (4 rebs), Aiketerini Kontali 9, Ioanna Diela 9
Estonia: Kerttu Jallai 15 (5 rebs), Triin Teppo 12 (9 rebs), Kerli Haas (179-F-90) 10 (8 rebs)

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  HOLLAND - Women  


U18 EC, division B: Belgium too strong for Netherlands - by Eurobasket News
U18 Netherlands - U18 Belgium 59-87

Belgium cruises past Netherlands in the first game of the Qualifying Round improving to 1-1 in Group F. If Belgium succeeds to beat Hungary tomorrow it will have a nice chance to reach the semifinals of U18 European Championship division B in Skopje. On the other side this defeat is a big problem for Netherlands, which had a chance to secure a spot for the semis but it is not over yet.

Netherlands had slightly better performance in the first but Belgians woke up in the next quarter. After 37-34 at the middle of it, Belgium crated 11-3 run taking 3-point lead before the half time. Miete Celus (175-G/F-91) and Noemie Mayombo (168-G-91) stepped up for Belgium during the following ten minutes. They were almost unmistakable at the offensive end which resulted with pretty good 25 points for their team in third period. It was not enough for Belgians as they continued in the same rhythm until the end. Finally everything finished with comfortable 28-point victory.

Miete Celus demonstrated wonderful performance for the winning side. She drained 26 points for just 21 minutes having 10 of 12 for FG2, 1 of 2 from behind the arc and 3 of 4 from the FT line. Noemie Mayombo also shined for the winners adding 21 points and 5 assists while Jana Raman (183-F-91) and Lien Lentacker (181-C-90) stopped on 11 points each. Netherlands got the most from Chatilla Van Grinsven (187-F-89), who collected 15 points and 7 rebounds. Clara Van der Hoek (179-F-90) and Natalie Van den Adel (182-G-90) had 9 points apiece.


U18 Netherlands - U18 Belgium 59-87
(23-21, 16-21, 12-25, 8-20)

Netherlands: Chatilla Van Grinsven 15 (7 rebs), Clara Van der Hoek 9 (7 rebs), Natalie Van den Adel 9
Belgium: Miete Celus 26, Noemie Mayombo 21 (5 as), Jana Raman 11 (15 rebs), Lien Lentacker 11 (8 rebs)

U16 EC, division B: Netherlands edges Estonia booking a spot for the next stage - by Eurobasket News
U16 Estonia - U16 Netherlands 44-72

In a crucial game for the second stage of U16 European Championship division B in Bulgaria, Netherlands managed to register an easy victory over Estonia. Both teams had score 1-1 before this game but after it Netherlands jumped to the second position while Estonia became the third ranked team in Group C. Netherlands will together with Finland, Slovakia and Romania continue championship in Group F of the Qualifying Round for 1st to 8th place. Two top ranked teams from this group will advance to the semifinals. Estonia will have to be satisfied with a spot in Group H of the Qualifying Round for 9th to 16th place where already are placed Croatia, Bosnia and Montenegro.

Netherlands took control on Estonia from the early beginning. After opening ten minutes it already was plus 11 for Maxime Essenstam and her teammates. During the second frame Anika Koster shined for her team leading 10-0 run for 30-30. However, thanks to Rianne Hofstraat (183-C-92) Netherlands returned 4-point lead until the half time. Maxime Essenstam and Jamailah Adams put into the fifth gear after the breather smashing Estonia 9-23 in third quarter. After that moment it was clear that Estonia won't have any chance until the end. Interesting is that Estonians totally gave up scoring just 2 points during the last ten minutes.

Maxime Essenstam was the lading player of her team ending this game with 15 points and 11 boards. Jamailah Adams had 13 points and 4 boards while Rianne Hofstraat helped the winning side collecting 12 points, 5 rebounds and 4 assists. Estonia got the most from Annika Koster (185-C-92), who posted 12 points with 6 boards. Rosemary Ritz had 10 points and 5 rebounds.


U16 Estonia - U16 Netherlands 44-72
(10-21, 23-16, 9-23, 2-12)

Estonia: Annika Koster 12 (6 rebs), Rosemary Ritz 10 (5 rebs)
Netherlands: Maxime Essenstam 15 (11 rebs), Jamailah Adams 13 (4 rebs), Rianne Hofstraat 12 (5 rebs, 4 as)

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  HUNGARY - Women  


U18 EC, division B: Latvia beats Hungary in OT - by Eurobasket News
U18 Hungary - U18 Latvia 70-78

Latvia celebrated in the first day of the Qualifying Round on U18 European Championship division B in Skopje. It means that Latvia continued its winning streak from the Preliminary Round stretching it to 5-0. With this victory Latvians made a huge step forward to the semifinals but there are still some theoretically chances that Latvians could be stopped at this stage.

After totally leveled first quarter, Latvia was faced with many troubles. They struggled with a long range stroke as well as with organizing the plays. Lilla Horvath (-90) and Reka Balint (181-F-91) stepped up for Hungary ending the second stanza 22-13. Latvians showed some attitude after the breather. Anete Steinberga (192-C-90) and Sabine Niedola (182-F-91) made few baskets which affected the score which was still a good one for Hungary. During the last ten minutes Latvia put into the fifth gear and through Liene Priede (180-G-90), Anete Steinberga and Sabine Niedola succeeded to reach the over time. Hungarians were totally out of concentration which Anete Steinberga and his teammates exploited scoring 16 points for 5 minutes and finishing this game with plus 8.

Anete Steinberga paced Latvia to victory collecting 15 points and 8 rebounds. Sabine Niedola registered double-double 14 points and 13 rebounds while Liene Priede had 12 points. Lilla Horvath added 14 points and 9 rebounds for the loosing side, which doesn't have any chance for the semifinals after this defeat. Reka Balint also was good in Hungary with 13 points, 10 rebounds and 4 assists while Dorottya Tamis (171-G-91) scored 12 points.


U18 Hungary - U18 Latvia 70-78
(15-15, 22-13, 10-13, 15-21, 8-16)

Hungary: Lilla Horvath 14 (9 rebs), Reka Balint 13 (10 rebs, 4 as), Dorottya Tamis 12
Latvia: Anete Steinberga 15 (8 rebs), Sabine Niedola 14 (13 rebs), Liene Priede 12

Spain U16 thrashes Hungary U16 - by Eurobasket News
Hungary U16-Spain U16 31:73

Spain U16 recorded 3-0 after an easy win over Hungary U16 last night. Spain was too good for the opponent with 73:31 at the Termosteps U16 European Championship Women. Gil led the winners with 13 points and 10 rebounds. E Diaz netted 11, while Y Diaz added 8. Bettina Baksa (172-G-92) Bettina top-scored for Hungary with 11 points and Manyoky scored 5.
Spain started to ruin Hungary in the opening quarter. Gil scored seven points as Spain jumped ahead early 9:2.Spain increased to 17:5 but then Hungary made it 18:9 at the end of the first period. In the second quarter the latter player even and trailed 19:29 at the half.
Bettina Baksa kept Hungary within 33:23 however Queralt Casas and Diaz hit triples in a 17-0 surge to blow the game open 50:23. Mansare closed the third quarter at 52:27 with the superiority of Spain. Another quarter was the last one and another troublesome for Hunagry. Spain thrashed the opponent in the final stanza 21:4 and easily reached 3-0 record in the group. Hungary fell at 0-3 and remained on the bottom of the group.

Hungary U16: Bettina Baksa 11, Manyoky 5
Spain U16:Gil 13+10 rebs, E Diaz 11, Y Diaz 8

Hungary U16 is victorious over Belarus U16 - by Eurobasket News
Belarus U16-Hungary U16 47:48

Hungary U16 celebrated the first win in the Qualifying Round Group F of the Termosteps U16 European Championship Women. The last game today saw a 48:47 victory over Belarus that remains winless in this round. Belarus got the ball back with less than a second but could not score. Manyoky led the winners with 18 points. Melinda Kesoi (178-F-92) collected 9 points and 10 rebounds, while Mansare added 6 points and 10 rebounds. Karalina Padshyvalava (164-G-92) and Aliaksandra Shymkaviak (166-G-92) top-scored for Belarus with 13 points.
It was Belarus to score first 4 points in the game and to remain in front until 7:3 lead. Hungary found its game and produced 17:1 spurt to finish it only in the second quarter. At first they won the opening 14:8 and had 22:8 by the end of it. Belarus reduced a bit and Musatava closed the first half at 26:18 for Hungary.
Mnyoky's triple helped push the advantage to 30:18 however Belarus replied with six consecutive points. Karalina Padshyvalava cut the deficit to 36:41 entering the last period. Musatava and Aliaksandra Shymkaviak made it 46:45 with 4 minutes to play in the game. Melinda Kesoi from the free throw line brought Hungary to 48:45 and Aliaksandra Shymkaviak's lay up showed 47:48. Belarus got the ball back with less than a second but could not score.

Belarus U16: Karalina Padshyvalava 13+9 rebs, Aliaksandra Shymkaviak 13
Hungary U16: Manyoky 18, Melinda Kesoi 9+10 rebs, Mansare 6+10 rebs

Zirkova's threes are too much for Hungary - by Eurobasket News
Slovak Republic-Hungary 66:47

Slovak Republic was stronger than Hungary at their EuroBasket Women qualifying campaign in Group C. The hosts edged the opponent 66:47 in the only game so far. Zuzana Zirkova (175-F/G-80) paced the winners with 20 points and 4 rebounds, including 6/12 three-pointers. Katarina Hrickova (180-F-80) nailed 9, while Lucia Kupcikova (184-F-84) and Bronislava Borovickova (170-G-80) scored 8 each. Anna Vajda (191-F/C-84) finished the night with 17 points and 10 rebounds for the guests and Zsofia Fegyverneky (178-G-84) added 11.
Bronislava Borovickova opened the game for the hosts that were supported by 1500 fans in the complex. In a tough opening boith squads stayed together but Horti gave Hungary 14:13 lead after the first 10 minutes of the game. The Slovak Republic soon got back in front but Hungary would not go away as the two team's traded blows until half-time, which came with the hosts ahead by one, 25:24.
Zuzana Zirkova's three was the first in the second half for 28:24. Again her triple made it plus 11, 41:30. Anna Vajda reduced to 43:35 after the thirty minutes of the campaign. Zuzana Zirkova's long-range effort with with 8:10 left in the game made it 52:39, allowing the Slovak Republic to cruise to the finish. Katarina Hrickova posted another two for 58:41 with 4 minutes in the game. Fabianova's three set up the final, 66:47 win for Slovak Republic.

Slovak Republic:Zuzana Zirkova 20+4 rebs, Katarina Hrickova 9, Lucia Kupcikova 8, Bronislava Borovickova 8
Hungary:Anna Vajda 17+10 rebs, Zsofia Fegyverneky 11

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  IRELAND - Women  


U18 EC, division B: Ireland better that Finland thanks to last ten minutes - by Eurobasket News
U18 Finland - U18 Ireland 53-59

Ireland was better than Finland in very exciting game. Finland also had a chance to take this one but Ireland showed much better performance in the last quarter. With this victory Ireland improved its score on 2-0 in Group H while Finland dropped on 1-1.

After totally leveled first frame, Ireland created 7-0 run at the middle of the next one. Christine O'Gorman (178-C-90) was the leading player at that time netting five of Ireland's 7 points in this run. Later Ireland touched plus 8 but thanks to Maria Salmio (182-F-91) Finland went on the half time with minus 6. Third frame brought totally different picture on the court. Finland was the team which showed better performance. They ended this period making mini 4-0 run coming on just minus one before the last ten minutes. Later they succeeded to grab five-point lead mostly owing to Titta Lepisto (184-F/C-90) but Claire Rockall (168-G-90) and Sinead O'Reilly (180-F-90) led crucial 11-0 run for their team.

Claire Rockall was the leading scorer for the winning side with 14 points. At the same time she grabbed 9 more rebounds. Christine O'Gorman and Sinead O'Reilly registered double-double. The first one had 12 points and 11 rebounds while Sinead O'Reilly (180-F-90) had one board less. Kia Ignatius (176-G-90) added 12 points for Finland while Titta Lepisto had 10 points and 6 rebounds.


U18 Finland - U18 Ireland 53-59
(12-12, 10-16, 18-13, 13-18)

Finland: Kia Ignatius 12, Titta Lepisto 10 (6 rebs)
Ireland: Claire Rockall 14 (9 rebs), Christine O'Gorman 12 (11 rebs), Sinead O'Reilly 12 (10 rebs)

U16 EC, division B: Bulgaria grabs important win against Ireland - by Eurobasket News
U16 Ireland - U16 Bulgaria 47-57

It was a joyful last day of the Preliminary Round for the hosts of U16 European Championship division B. Bulgarians were better that Ireland booking a spot for the Qualifying Round for 1st to 8th place. Interesting is that Ireland also has the same score 3-1 but because of this victory Bulgaria get through Group A. It means that Bulgarians are immediately transferred to Group E together with Slovenia, Greece and Denmark. Ireland is placed into Group G of the Qualifying Round for 9th to 16th place where its rivals will be Portugal, England and Switzerland. Bulgaria starts competition at the second stage with score 0-1 because of the defeat against Slovenia while Ireland will go on with 1-0.

Ireland had slightly better performance at the beginning. Thanks to Clodagh Scannell (171-F-93) Ireland grabbed quick 13-5 after 5 minutes extending it later to 15-9. After that moment Bulgarian trio Vesela Kovacheva (163-G-92), Nora Georgieva and Pamela Decheva (177-G-92) stepped up ending this frame with 9-2 run. At the one point of the second frame Bulgarians set the margin to 25-30 but they succeeded to keep plus 3 until the half time. Third quarter was crucial period of the game. Ireland managed to score just 3 points for 10 minutes while Bulgaria netted 10. It means that the hosts of U16 EC division B had plus 10 before the last frame, what was more than enough for comfortable victory.

This time Vesela Kovacheva was the best player for the winning side netting 16 points. Nora Georgieva followed her with 14 while Pamela Decheva had 11 points, 8 boards and 4 steals. Lorraine Scanlon helped Ireland adding 18 points and fantastic 19 rebounds. Clodagh Scannell stopped on 17 points and 6 rebounds.


U16 Ireland - U16 Bulgaria 47-57
(17-18, 13-15, 3-10, 14-14)

Ireland: Lorraine Scanlon 18 (19 rebs), Clodagh Scannell 17 (6 rebs)
Bulgaria: Vesela Kovacheva 16, Nora Georgieva 14, Pamela Decheva 11 (8 rebs, 4 st)

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  ISRAEL - Women  


Market News - by Richard
Jennifer Humphry (190-C-84) signed in Maccabi Ashdod. Jennifer played the last season in the Polish league were she was there the best Rebounder (10.3 per game) and he also added 14pts.

Israel defeat Baltic representative in the opener of the EuroBasket Women qualifying round - by Eurobasket News
Israel-Lithuania 63:47

Israel won the opener of the their EuroBasket Women qualifying round as the team was too strong for the Baltic representative. Israel overcame Lithuania 63:47 with 11-3 in the second period. Shay Doron (175-G-85, college: Maryland) paced the winners with 16 points and 3 assists. Katia Abramzon (186-F/C-87) collected 15 points and 7 rebounds, while Suez Karni netted 10. Diana Razmaite (196-C-75, agency: LBM Management) top-scored for the guests with 10 points and Stakneviciene hit 9.
It was Israel to set up the rhythm in the beginning. After 15:13 Katia Abramzon and Shay Doron led to 22:17 closing the first period. Again Katia Abramzon made it 30:20 with less than 3 minutes in the first half. Cohen pulled her team to 33:20 advantage after the second period.
In the third quarter Lithuania came back to the game and produced 13:9 in it. Staugaitiene was the last to score in the period for 42:33 hosts lead. When Agne Ciudariene split a pair of free-throws with 6:40 to go the gap was down to five points at 43:38. The teams traded baskets and the gap was back at five, 52:47, after Diana Razmaite's jump shot with 2:30 to go. Selwyn's lay-up made it 54:47 and Katia Abramzon closed the game at 56:47. Israel won the opener of the their EuroBasket Women qualifying round and look forward to stay on top of the group.

Israel:Shay Doron 16+3 ast, Katia Abramzon 15+7 rebs, Suez Karni 10
Lithuania: Diana Razmaite 10, Stakneviciene 9

U18 EC, division B: Israel routs Austria in Skopje - by Eurobasket News
U18 Austria - U18 Israel 61-76

Israel registered surprisingly easy victory against Austria in the first game of Qualifying Round for 9th to 16th place. Both teams currently have 1-1 in Group G keeping chances to reach one of the first two positions.

Israel had wonderful 43.5% from behind the arc against Austria. Except of the very good defense, it could be the reason of this comfortable victory. Game is decided already in the first half. Coral Dolev (173-G-90) and Keren Nechama (173-F-90) opened this game in style. They led Israel at the offensive end which finally stopped on 29 points in this period. On the other side Lisa Richard (174-G-90) and her teammates scored 19. Israel intensified defense during the following ten minutes. Austrians couldn't adapt on it which resulted with just 7 points in this period. Israel also didn't have such brilliant offense but still 17 points was more than enough for huge plus 20 at the half time. After that moment Austrians woke up ending third frame 20-13 but it was too late for them. Interesting is that Austria had 14 rebounds more than Israel in this game.

Coral Dolev drained 21 points for the winners while Keren Nechama also shined adding 20 points and 6 rebounds. Shira Ben Barak (171-G-91) and Shira Shecht (180-F-91) helped their team with 11 points each. Lisa Richard was the best scorer in Austria netting 18 points and at the same time grabbing 4 rebounds. Sarah Schicher (185-C-90) also shined recording double-double, 17 points and 10 rebounds.


U18 Austria - U18 Israel 61-76
(19-29, 7-17, 20-13, 15-17)

Austria: Lisa Richard 18 (4 rebs), Sarah Schicher 17 (10 rebs)
Israel: Coral Dolev 21, Keren Nechama 20 (6 rebs), Shira Ben Barak 11 (5 as), Shira Shecht 11

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  ITALY - Women  


Italy cruise past Belarus in Poland - by Eurobasket News
Italy U16 - Belarus U16 65:48

Italian U16 National Team secured their fourth straight win at the European Championship in Katowice. They stunned Belarus in the Qualifying round opener in Group F. Debora Carangelo (168-G-94) and Cigliani led balanced offense with 12 points apiece. Belarus in the meantime fell to 0-3 record in the ladder. Italian team used a 14:2 rally in the first quarter to claim a 16:7 lead. Formica and Tessari closed the first term with 4 straight points and Italy led 20:9 after ten minutes of action. Italy opened the second period with a 7:0 run to stretch the margin. Italy dominated the scene in the second frame and drove to a comfortable 38:20 halftime advantage. Back-to-back trebles from Musatava early in the third frame gave Belarus hope. But Italy maintained the pressure and entered the fourth term up by 17 points. The gap proved unassailable for their opponents and Italy scored another impressive victory at the tournament. Masoni and Formica had 9 points each for the winners. Musatava answered with game-high 15 points for Belarus. Maryia Filonchyk (187-F-92) had 12 points and 7 rebounds in a losing effort.

Italy U16: Debora Carangelo 12, Cigliani 12, Masoni 9, Sabrina Formica 9
Belarus U16: Musatava 15, Maryia Filonchyk 12

Italy U16 remains perfect, Russia fell shortly - by Eurobasket News
Italy U16-Russia U16 54:50

Italy U16 remained perfect at the Termosteps U16 European Championship Women. Cigliani and Carangelo secured Italy a 54:50 victory over Russia in the first game of Group F. Cigliani paced the winners with 16 points. Marta Masoni (183-F-93) collected 10 points and 8 rebounds, while Formica added 7. Kseniya Efimova (173-F/G) top-scored for Russia with 20 points as her team fell at 1-3. Stolyar, Gumennaya and Kubynina each scored 6 points in the losing effort.
Minaeva's lay-up was the first productive in the game, but Italy took 3:2 lead. Russia played better in the opening tip and grabbed 9:3 in the middle of the quarter. Cigliani knocked down two more long balls as Italy trailed 12:10 after one period. Russia controlled the game in the second quarter until the last 3 minutes as Italy bounced back and stepped in front. Marta Masoni's three gave Italy the lead again and then Formica closed the half at 26:22.
In the beginning of the third quarter a 7-1 from Italy made it for a 38:33 advantage. Russia however answered with 9-0 run for a 42:38 lead. In the end of the game the last time score was tied at 47:47 and then 50:50. For Russian squad it was the last points in the game, but Italy scored 4 more for the victory. Cigliani and Carangelo secured Italy a 54:50 win.

Italy U16:Cigliani 16, Marta Masoni 10+8 rebs, Formica 7
Russia U16:Kseniya Efimova 20, Stolyar 6, Gumennaya 6, Kubynina 6

Bibrzycka shines over Italy - by Eurobasket News
Poland-Italy 63:59

Agnieszka Bibrzycka (184-F/G-82, college: Abil.Christian) was the star of the EuroBasket Women qualifying opener for Poland. Gdansk saw Polish National team overcoming Italy 63:59 as Agnieszka Bibrzycka was unstoppable with 27 points. Anna Wielebnowska (188-C-78) and Paulina Pawlak (170-G-84) followed her with 7 points each as Poland was too good in the second quarter. Simona Ballardini (183-F-81) top-scored for Italian side with 17 points, while Marte Alexander (196-C-76, college: Arizona) and Kathrin Ress (193-F-85, college: Boston Coll.) added 8 apiece.
Polish team won the opening tip of the game and had 12:6 as Anna Wielebnowska made a jump-shot. Italy replied with some baskets in the end to tie at 20:20 as Marte Alexander scored two. The second quarter belonged to the hosts that were admired by Agnieszka Bibrzycka. They created 24:13 in the next 10 minutes for 44:33 lead at the break. Agnieszka Bibrzycka made it 46:35 and then 48:38. Down by 10 early in the final stanza of this Group B clash, Italy came to life. Pastore brought Italy back to 58:56 with 4.35 at the board. Kathrin Ress's jump-shot made it 60:59 with a minute to play. With 40 seconds left, Ewelina Kobryn split a pair of free throws to make it 63:59. It was a great game, but the hosts deserved the win more than the guests.

Poland: Agnieszka Bibrzycka 27, Anna Wielebnowska 7, Paulina Pawlak 7
Italy:Simona Ballardini 17, Marte Alexander, M. 8, Kathrin Ress 8

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  LATVIA - Women  


Anete Jekabsone-Zogota earns win for Latvia - by Eurobasket News
Latvia - Brazil 79:78

Anete Jekabsone-Zogota (176-F-83) nailed a go-ahead jumper with 2.7 seconds remaining in the encounter to bring Latvia to their initial win at the Olympic Games in China. They snatched a last-second win from Brazil sending the Latin American powerhouse to 0-3 record. Latvia remained hopeful about their quarterfinal birth. Meanwhile Brazil put themselves on the brink of falling out of the title race. They now must win against Russia and Belarus for a chance to clinch quarterfinal birth. Brazil confidently entered the game and gradually started to pile up the lead. They dominated in the paint and their physical style of play allowed them to gain a 23:14 advantage at the first intermission. Latvia however refused to fold and came back into contest in the second period. They stiffened defense and limited Brazil to 13 points in the quarter. It allowed the European team to trim the distance to 5 points at halftime 31:36. Anete Jekabsone-Zogotas pivotal performance paced Latvia in the third frame as they got within 2 points from Brazil heading into the fourth term. Latvia finally surged ahead in the fourth term and enjoyed a 2-point cushion with seconds left in regulation. Karen Gustavo Rocha (177-G-84) fired from downtown to set Brazil in front 78:77. Nevertheless Anete Jekabsone-Zogota had just enough time to drain a saving basket and brought victory to Latvia. Brazil had a chance to turn it for the better. Adriana Pinto (170-G-78) tried to win it at the buzzer but her jumper rimmed out sealing Latvian success. Anete Jekabsone-Zogota led all scorers with 25 points. Ieva Kublina (193-C-82, college: Virginia Tech) had 14 points and 7 boards, while Gunta Basko (181-F-80, college: Siena) notched 12 points for the winners. Soeli Zakrzeski (187-C/F-77) replied with 16 points and 9 boards for Brazil. Kelly Santos (192-C-79) provided 15 points and 9 boards in a losing effort.

Latvia: Anete Jekabsone-Zogota 25, Ieva Kublina 14, Gunta Basko 12
Brazil: Soeli Zakrzeski 16, Kelly Santos 15

U18 EC, division B: Latvia beats Hungary in OT - by Eurobasket News
U18 Hungary - U18 Latvia 70-78

Latvia celebrated in the first day of the Qualifying Round on U18 European Championship division B in Skopje. It means that Latvia continued its winning streak from the Preliminary Round stretching it to 5-0. With this victory Latvians made a huge step forward to the semifinals but there are still some theoretically chances that Latvians could be stopped at this stage.

After totally leveled first quarter, Latvia was faced with many troubles. They struggled with a long range stroke as well as with organizing the plays. Lilla Horvath (-90) and Reka Balint (181-F-91) stepped up for Hungary ending the second stanza 22-13. Latvians showed some attitude after the breather. Anete Steinberga (192-C-90) and Sabine Niedola (182-F-91) made few baskets which affected the score which was still a good one for Hungary. During the last ten minutes Latvia put into the fifth gear and through Liene Priede (180-G-90), Anete Steinberga and Sabine Niedola succeeded to reach the over time. Hungarians were totally out of concentration which Anete Steinberga and his teammates exploited scoring 16 points for 5 minutes and finishing this game with plus 8.

Anete Steinberga paced Latvia to victory collecting 15 points and 8 rebounds. Sabine Niedola registered double-double 14 points and 13 rebounds while Liene Priede had 12 points. Lilla Horvath added 14 points and 9 rebounds for the loosing side, which doesn't have any chance for the semifinals after this defeat. Reka Balint also was good in Hungary with 13 points, 10 rebounds and 4 assists while Dorottya Tamis (171-G-91) scored 12 points.


U18 Hungary - U18 Latvia 70-78
(15-15, 22-13, 10-13, 15-21, 8-16)

Hungary: Lilla Horvath 14 (9 rebs), Reka Balint 13 (10 rebs, 4 as), Dorottya Tamis 12
Latvia: Anete Steinberga 15 (8 rebs), Sabine Niedola 14 (13 rebs), Liene Priede 12

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  LITHUANIA - Women  


Czech Republic U16 beat Lithuania U16 for the first win in the Qualifying Round - by Eurobasket News
Czech Republic U16 -Lithuania U16 75:60

Czech Republic U16 beat Lithuania U16 for the first win in the Qualifying Round. The second half was the decisive in the game as in 14 as the Czech Republic improved to 1-3 in the Qualifying Round Group E. Karolina Elhotova (182-G-92) led the winners with 21 points and 5 rebounds. Martina Cepelkova (182-C-92) posted 16 and Jana Hausknechtova (178-G-92) scored 14. Neringa Skadaite top-scored for Lithuania with 14 points that dropped to 0-4. Grigalauskyte scored 9 points and made tremendous 18 rebounds as Santa Okockyte (175-G-92) had 9 points.
The Czechs surged ahead early 11-2 and took the lead in the game. Pudlakova made it 26:13 as the teams finished the first quarter in the encounter. Neringa Skadaite sparked an early run in the second quarter for Lithuania, bringing the lead down to 31:28 and the Czech cushion was 35:32.
Druskyte reduced the gap to 46:44 but Sedlackova from the arc closed the third at 53:46. Lithuania knotted the game at 56:56 however they could not jump in front. The Czechs went on a 19-4 run and sealed the initial win in the Qualifying Round in the tournament. Tomorrow the team will play with Turkey that will need the victory more than they do in order to advance to the semis. Lithuania will face Sweden in the last game of the group.

Czech Republic U16:Karolina Elhotova 21+5 rebs, Martina Cepelkova 16, Jana Hausknechtova 14
Lithuania U16: Neringa Skadaite 14, Grigalauskyte 9+18 rebs, Santa Okockyte 9

Israel defeat Baltic representative in the opener of the EuroBasket Women qualifying round - by Eurobasket News
Israel-Lithuania 63:47

Israel won the opener of the their EuroBasket Women qualifying round as the team was too strong for the Baltic representative. Israel overcame Lithuania 63:47 with 11-3 in the second period. Shay Doron (175-G-85, college: Maryland) paced the winners with 16 points and 3 assists. Katia Abramzon (186-F/C-87) collected 15 points and 7 rebounds, while Suez Karni netted 10. Diana Razmaite (196-C-75, agency: LBM Management) top-scored for the guests with 10 points and Stakneviciene hit 9.
It was Israel to set up the rhythm in the beginning. After 15:13 Katia Abramzon and Shay Doron led to 22:17 closing the first period. Again Katia Abramzon made it 30:20 with less than 3 minutes in the first half. Cohen pulled her team to 33:20 advantage after the second period.
In the third quarter Lithuania came back to the game and produced 13:9 in it. Staugaitiene was the last to score in the period for 42:33 hosts lead. When Agne Ciudariene split a pair of free-throws with 6:40 to go the gap was down to five points at 43:38. The teams traded baskets and the gap was back at five, 52:47, after Diana Razmaite's jump shot with 2:30 to go. Selwyn's lay-up made it 54:47 and Katia Abramzon closed the game at 56:47. Israel won the opener of the their EuroBasket Women qualifying round and look forward to stay on top of the group.

Israel:Shay Doron 16+3 ast, Katia Abramzon 15+7 rebs, Suez Karni 10
Lithuania: Diana Razmaite 10, Stakneviciene 9

Belgium surprise Lithuania to stay undefeated - by Eurobasket News
Belgium U16 - Lithuania U16 75:46

Belgian U16 National Team posted their 4th consecutive victory at the European Championship in Katowice. Yesterday they held off Lithuanian team to start the Qualifying round victoriously. Julie Vanloo (168-G-93) knocked down 17 points for Belgium as they looked too good for the Baltic team. Defense worked well for Belgium in the opening stanza as they built a 14:8 lead. Lithuania cut the deficit early in the second frame but just to see Meylemans and Devlaux connecting from beyond the arc for a 7-point Belgian advantage. Julie Vanloo capped the half with a trey and Belgium led 25:15 at the interval. Julie Vanloo netted 9 points in the first half of the third stanza and Belgian team exploded with a 17:6 run to open up a 20-point lead. Lithuania failed to answer in the reminder of the contest and had to surrender at the end. Lithuania thus fell to a 0-3 record in Group E. Meylemans scored 13 points for Belgium. Meesseman added 10 points for the winners. Paulina Zaveckaite had 12 points for Lithuania. Morkunaite and Svaryte contributed 8 points each in a losing case. Lithuania enjoyed a 44:35 advantage on the glass but converted only 35% from the field. Belgium also forced their opponents to as many as 34 turnovers.

Belgium U16: Julie Vanloo 17, Meylemans 13, Meesseman 10
Lithuania U16: Paulina Zaveckaite 12, Morkunaite 8, Svaryte 8

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  LUXEMBOURG - Women  


U18 EC, division B: Portugal takes it easily over Luxemburg - by Eurobasket News
U18 Luxemburg - U18 Portugal 39-61

Portugal ended the first day of the Qualifying Round from 9th to 16th place celebrating. Maria Correia (172-G/F-91) and her teammates took control on Luxemburg from the very beginning keeping it until the end. Thus after this victory Portugal improved to 2-0 in Group G while Luxemburg dropped on 0-2.

After entering 8-10, Portuguese made 13-8 run heading to the next period with 16-23. Marcy Goncalves (173-F-90) shined for Portugal in the second frame scoring 6 of Portugal's 12 points in this period. Luxemburg succeeded to net just 8 which meant that Portuguese stretched their lead to 9 points at the half time. After free throw by Sofia Da Silva, Portugal touched plus 15 at the begging of the third stanza. It seemed that Luxemburg gave up after that as Portugal just keep extending advantage until the very end. Portugal finished this game having 7 rebounds more than its opponent. On the other side Luxemburg had a lot of troubles with long range shots. Actually, it players made only 1 of 23 attempts for 3-pts during the entire time.

Maria Correia was the best scorer for the winning team with 13 points while Sofia Da Silva also demonstrated pretty good performance netting 12 points and missing only one rebound for double-double. Marcy Goncalves also helped her team with 12 points. The only player with more than 8 points in Luxemburg was Jil Haentges (182-C-90). She was a way better than the others collecting 15 point and 13 boards.


U18 Luxemburg - U18 Portugal 39-61
(16-23, 8-12, 9-14, 6-12)

Luxemburg: Jil Haentges 15 (13 rebs)
Portugal: Maria Correia 13, Sofia Da Silva 12 (9 rebs), Marcy Goncalves 12

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  MALI - Women  


USA coast past Mali - by Eurobasket News
USA - Mali 97:41

The United States National Team breezed past Mali at the Olympic Games basketball tournament today. The victory marked the third straight success for the USA team in Group B. The African powerhouse suffered their third straight loss and remained at the bottom of the ladder. However the first minutes of the game did not reveal the USA advantage. Mali trailed by just a single point 8:9 midway through the first stanza. But the North American team soon gained control over the game and went on a 15:3 run to build a 24:12 advantage at the first break. The USA team continued their onslaught in the second frame. They opened the quarter with 12:3 rally to maintain a 21-point lead midway through the period. Mali failed to answer and found themselves trailing by as many as 23 points at halftime. Another surge from the USA at the start of the third period put them in charge 65:30. The North American team never looked back in the reminder of the contest and cruised to the victory at the end. Lisa Leslie (6'5''-C-72, college: USC) paced the USA with 16 points. Seimone Augustus (6'1''-G-84, college: LSU) dropped 12 points, while Tina Thompson (6'2''-F-75, agency: Merit Sports, college: USC) and Candace Parker (6'4''-F/C-86, college: Tennessee) had 10 points each for the winners. Aminata Sinita had 13 points for Mali. Fatoumata Bagayokoc (-G-88) and Meiya Tirera (5'11''-F-86) secured 7 points apiece in defeat. The United States sank 62% from the field and limited their opponents to just 25% accuracy. The winners also forced the African team to 29 turnovers.

USA: Lisa Leslie 16, Seimone Augustus 12, Tina Thompson 10, Candace Parker 10
Mali: Aminata Sinita 13, Fatoumata Bagayokoc 7, Meiya Tirera 7

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  MONTENEGRO - Women  


U16 EC, division B: Romania get through the Preliminary Group D - by Eurobasket News
U16 Romania - U16 Montenegro 84-61

Romany grabbed an extremely important victory against Montenegro advancing to the next stage of U16 European Championship division B in Bulgaria. The important thing for Romania also was 2-point defeat by Croatia against Finland which automatically meant that Romania goes to the Qualifying Round for 1st to 8th place. On the other hand Montenegro remained winless on this championship moving to Qualifying Round for 9th to 16th position.

Quality level between these two teams was more than obvious. Romanians opened the game creating quick 13-4. Later Montenegro came just a little bit closer but after Alexandra Florea's (173-F) jump shot at the last possession in the first stanza Romania grabbed 8-point lead. Second quarter was almost leveled. Jovana Pasic took care for the points in Montenegro while Alexandra Ionescu (172-F-92) and Alexandra Florea done the same in Romania. The game is decided in third period when Romanians played furious ten minutes demonstrating its power. They ended it 32-13 after what they slowed down keeping their lead without any extra effort.

Alexandra Ionescu was the best scorer for the winning team with 19 points. Gabriela Cursaru (161-G-92) also showed pretty good performance finishing the game with 18 points and 5 assists while Alexandra Florea followed her collecting 12 points and 8 boards. Jovana Pasic shined in Montenegro posting 16 points including 4 rebounds. Jelena Vucetic also was good adding 14 points and 6 assists while Ana Turcinovic (185-C-93) had 13 points missing only one rebound for double-double. The firts rival of Slovakia in Group F will be Romania. On the other side Montenegro will take on Estonia in Group H.


U16 Romania - U16 Montenegro 84-61
(22-14, 16-15, 32-13, 14-19)

Romania: Alexandra Ionescu 19, Gabriela Cursaru 18 (5 as), Alexandra Florea 12 (8 rebs)
Montenergo: Jovana Pasic 16 (4 rebs), Jelena Vucetic 14 (6 as), Ana Turcinovic 13 (9 rebs)

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  NEW ZEALAND - Women  


China too good for New Zealand - by Eurobasket News
China - New Zealand 80:63

China delivered a first-class performance today routing New Zealand in Group B of the Olympic Games basketball tournament. China rebounded after a stunning loss to the USA on Monday to have no problems against the Tall Ferns. Chen Nan (197-C-83) tallied massive 26 points and 17 boards to propel China past New Zealand today. China thus improved to 2-1 record and occupied the second spot in the ladder. New Zealand in the meantime were handed their second straight loss after a victorious start against Mali at the event. China dominated right from the start as they jumped to a 26:18 first-quarter lead. New Zealand scored only 13 points in the second frame and the hosts stretched the margin to as many as 17 points at halftime. The Kiwis were able to slow China down after the long break. However a breakthrough never came for the visitors. The teams exchanged the baskets throughout the third period and China maintained a 17-point distance between the sides. The situation did not change in the final stanza as the home team rolled confidently and celebrated an emphatic win at the end. Miao Li Jie (180-G-81) contributed 15 points, 6 boards and 6 assists for China. Bian Lan (182-G-86) added 10 points for the winners. Jillian Harmon (185-F-87) and Angela Marino (166-G-86) knocked down 14 points each for the Tall Ferns. Lisa Wallbutton (183-F-86) had 11 points in a losing case. China had an overwhelming advantage under the rims 46:29 and shot solid 44% from the field.

China: Chen Nan 26+17 boards, Miao Li Jie 15, Bian Lan 10
New Zealand: Jillian Harmon 14, Angela Marino 14

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  OLYMPIC GAMES - Women  


Day 3 results and stats - by Eurobasket News
Group A
Russia - Belarus 71:65
Russian National Team extended their winning streak at the Olympic Games in China. Today they beat Belarus for the third victory in Group A. Russia remained on top of the ladder, while Belarus dropped to 1-2 record in the standings. It was a close game from the start as neither team would not go till the final seconds. Russia managed to accumulate only a single-point advantage at the first intermission. A strong defensive effort helped the European champions to limit their opponents to 8 points in the second quarter and Russia established a 35:27 lead at halftime. Belarus replied with a 13:7 run at the start of the third quarter and came as close as 2 points from Russia. Svetlana Abrosimova came up with a basket for Russia and fueled a 10:0 rally that put the team up for good. Belarus fought bravely in the fourth term and shaved the deficit to 4 points on several occasions. But the effort was in vain as Russia kept it cool and celebrated the third consecutive win at the event. Maria Stepanova (202-C-79) paced Russia with 13 points and 8 boards. Ilona Korstine (183-G-80) added 11 points and 9 boards, while Rebecca Hammon (168-G-77, college: Colorado St.) had 10 points in a win. Natalia Marchanka (170-G-79) responded with 16 points for Belarus. Yelena Leuchanka (196-C-83, college: W.Virginia) and Katsiaryna Snytsina (188-G/F-85) had 15 points apiece in defeat. Russia outrebounded Belarus 52:41 and held them to just 32% from the field. Russia will take on Brazil, while Belarus play against South Korea on Friday.

Russia: Maria Stepanova 13, Ilona Korstine 11, Rebecca Hammon 10
Belarus: Natalia Marchanka 16, Yelena Leuchanka 15, Katsiaryna Snytsina 15

Latvia - Brazil 79:78
Anete Jekabsone-Zogota (176-F-83) nailed a go-ahead jumper with 2.7 seconds remaining in the encounter to bring Latvia to their initial win at the Olympic Games in China. They snatched a last-second win from Brazil sending the Latin American powerhouse to 0-3 record. Latvia remained hopeful about their quarterfinal birth. Meanwhile Brazil put themselves on the brink of falling out of the title race. They now must win against Russia and Belarus for a chance to clinch quarterfinal birth. Brazil confidently entered the game and gradually started to pile up the lead. They dominated in the paint and their physical style of play allowed them to gain a 23:14 advantage at the first intermission. Latvia however refused to fold and came back into contest in the second period. They stiffened defense and limited Brazil to 13 points in the quarter. It allowed the European team to trim the distance to 5 points at halftime 31:36. Anete Jekabsone-Zogotas pivotal performance paced Latvia in the third frame as they got within 2 points from Brazil heading into the fourth term. Latvia finally surged ahead in the fourth term and enjoyed a 2-point cushion with seconds left in regulation. Karen Gustavo Rocha fired from downtown to set Brazil in front 78:77. Nevertheless Anete Jekabsone-Zogota had just enough time to drain a saving basket and brought victory to Latvia. Brazil had a chance to turn it for the better. Adriana Pinto tried to win it at the buzzer but her jumper rimmed out sealing Latvian success. Anete Jekabsone-Zogota led all scorers with 25 points. Ieva Kublina (193-C-82, college: Virginia Tech) had 14 points and 7 boards, while Gunta Basko (181-F-80, college: Siena) notched 12 points for the winners. Soeli Zakrzeski (187-C/F-77) replied with 16 points and 9 boards for Brazil. Kelly Santos (192-C-79) provided 15 points and 9 boards in a losing effort.

Latvia: Anete Jekabsone-Zogota 25, Ieva Kublina 14, Gunta Basko 12
Brazil: Soeli Zakrzeski 16, Kelly Santos 15

Australia - South Korea 90:62
Australian National Team added one more win to the stats at the Olympic Games basketball tournament today. They had no problems en route to a comfortable victory over South Korea in the third round of action in Group A. Penny Taylor (185-F-81) scored 18 points, pulled down 7 boards and dished out 4 assists to pace the Opals. Suzy Batkovic (193-C-80) added 18 points and 10 boards to ensure the winning outcome. Beon Yeon Ha (182-F-80) answered with 21 points for Korean team as they dropped to 1-2 record. The Opals wasted little time early in the encounter and went on 12:6 lead to start it. They rolled confidently and enjoyed a 23:14 cushion at the first break. The world champs knocked down 12 unanswered points in the second frame and their advantage grew to 19 points. Korea however refused to fold and cut the margin to 14 points at halftime. Beon Yeon Ha fueled another rally from the Asian team as they came as close as 8 points early in the third frame. But the Opals came back to life pretty quickly and outscored their opponents 26:17 in the third period to build a 23-point buffer before the fourth quarter. Korea failed to answer and Australia breezed to the win late in the game. Lauren Jackson (196-F/C-81) secured 16 points and 6 boards for the winners. Jung Sun Min (186-C-74) had 11 points for Korea in defeat. Australia outrebounded their counterparts 44:25 and shot impressive 53% from the field. Korea answered with 37% accuracy of field goals.

Australia: Penny Taylor 18, Suzy Batkovic 18+10 boards, Lauren Jackson 16
South Korea: Beon Yeon Ha 21, Jung Sun Min 11

Group B
Spain - Czech Republic 74:55
Spanish National team rebounded after the starting loss to China at the Olympic Games. Today they posted their second straight victory and boosted their ambitions for the Olympic tournament. Czechs in the meantime suffered their second loss in three games in Group B. Czech Republic used a sloppy form of Spain team early in the game to jump in front. They enjoyed a 20:11 lead at one point in the first quarter however Spaniards quickly bounced back. They went on a 17:7 run over the next 11 minutes and secured a 28:27 advantage at the interval. Amaya Valdemoro (184-F-76), Elisa Aguilar and Ana Montanana (186-F-80, college: George Washington) all connected from beyond the arc and Spain went on a decisive run in the third quarter. They outgunned Czech team 30:11 in the frame to establish a massive 20-point cushion before the fourth period. Czech Republic just managed to keep it up with Spain in the final term but never seriously threaten the advantage. Ana Montanana notched 20 points for Spain. Amaya Valdemoro added 13 points, while Isabel Sanchez (178-G-76) finished with 10 for the winning side. Eva Viteckova (190-F-82) chipped in 12 points for Czech Republic. Hana Machova (182-F/G-79) secured 11 points and 8 rebounds in defeat. Spain converted 50% from the field including 35% from beyond the arc. Spain outrebounded their opponents 34:29 and forced Czech team into 24 turnovers.

Spain: Ana Montanana 20, Amaya Valdemoro 13, Isabel Sanchez 10
Czech Republic: Eva Viteckova 12, Hana Machova 11

China - New Zealand 80:63
China delivered a first-class performance today routing New Zealand in Group B of the Olympic Games basketball tournament. China rebounded after a stunning loss to the USA on Monday to have no problems against the Tall Ferns. Chen Nan (197-C-83) tallied massive 26 points and 17 boards to propel China past New Zealand today. China thus improved to 2-1 record and occupied the second spot in the ladder. New Zealand in the meantime were handed their second straight loss after a victorious start against Mali at the event. China dominated right from the start as they jumped to a 26:18 first-quarter lead. New Zealand scored only 13 points in the second frame and the hosts stretched the margin to as many as 17 points at halftime. The Kiwis were able to slow China down after the long break. However a breakthrough never came for the visitors. The teams exchanged the baskets throughout the third period and China maintained a 17-point distance between the sides. The situation did not change in the final stanza as the home team rolled confidently and celebrated an emphatic win at the end. Miao Li Jie (180-G-81) contributed 15 points, 6 boards and 6 assists for China. Bian Lan (182-G-86) added 10 points for the winners. Jillian Harmon (185-F-87) and Angela Marino (166-G-86) knocked down 14 points each for the Tall Ferns. Lisa Wallbutton had 11 points in a losing case. China had an overwhelming advantage under the rims 46:29 and shot solid 44% from the field.

China: Chen Nan 26+17 boards, Miao Li Jie 15, Bian Lan 10
New Zealand: Jillian Harmon 14, Angela Marino 14

USA - Mali 97:41
The United States National Team breezed past Mali at the Olympic Games basketball tournament today. The victory marked the third straight success for the USA team in Group B. The African powerhouse suffered their third straight loss and remained at the bottom of the ladder. However the first minutes of the game did not reveal the USA advantage. Mali trailed by just a single point 8:9 midway through the first stanza. But the North American team soon gained control over the game and went on a 15:3 run to build a 24:12 advantage at the first break. The USA team continued their onslaught in the second frame. They opened the quarter with 12:3 rally to maintain a 21-point lead midway through the period. Mali failed to answer and found themselves trailing by as many as 23 points at halftime. Another surge from the USA at the start of the third period put them in charge 65:30. The North American team never looked back in the reminder of the contest and cruised to the victory at the end. Lisa Leslie (196-C-72, college: USC) paced the USA with 16 points. Seimone Augustus (185-G-84, college: LSU) dropped 12 points, while Tina Thompson (188-F-75, agency: Merit Sports, college: USC) and Candace Parker (193-F/C-86, college: Tennessee) had 10 points each for the winners. Aminata Sinita had 13 points for Mali. Fatoumata Bagayokoc (-G-88) and Meiya Tirera (180-F-86) secured 7 points apiece in defeat. The United States sank 62% from the field and limited their opponents to just 25% accuracy. The winners also forced the African team to 29 turnovers.

USA: Lisa Leslie 16, Seimone Augustus 12, Tina Thompson 10, Candace Parker 10
Mali: Aminata Sinita 13, Fatoumata Bagayokoc 7, Meiya Tirera 7

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  POLAND - Women  


Poland hold off Russia at U16 European Championship - by Eurobasket News
Poland U16 - Russia U16 83:77

Polish U16 Team scored an important win over Russian counterparts at the start of the Qualifying round at the European Championship. Poland thus climbed to 2-1 record in Group F and remained hopeful about their semifinal ambitions. Russia fell to 1-2 record and stayed at the 4th spot in the ladder. Monika Jasnowska (181-F-92) and Bandyk stepped up for the hosts in the game as they poured in 21 points apiece to carry Poland to a hard-fought win. Russia used trebles from Minaeva and Kseniya Efimova (173-F/G) to accumulate an 8:2 lead early in the first frame. Poland stayed close and surged ahead following a three-pointer from Zietara late in the quarter. However Sazonova and Arzina sealed the outcome at 20:17 for Russia. Maksimova opened the second frame with a trey and Russia kept on maintaining the lead. Poland would not go though and the home team trailed by just 3 points at the interval. Polish team tipped off the second half with an 8:1 surge to take over in the game. They led throughout the third quarter but Stepanova, Sazonova and Kseniya Efimova closed the quarter with 6 points in a row and Russia entered the final stanza leading by 5 points. Bandyk nailed 7 points in the first five minutes of the fourth term and Poland regained the advantage at 70:69. Monika Jasnowska, Bandyk and Kowalska lifted Poland to a 5-point lead and Russia failed to deny in the dying moments. Kowalska scored 16 points for the winners. Kseniya Efimova answered with game-high 22 points for Russia. Stepanova had 13 points and 11 boards in defeat.

Poland U16: Monika Jasnowska 21, Bandyk 21, Anna Kowalska 16
Russia U16: Kseniya Efimova 22, Stepanova 13+11 boards

Spain U16 advance to the semis - by Eurobasket News
Poland U16-Spain U16 40:67

Spain U16 used a defensive style over Poland to advance to the semifinal of the Termosteps U16 European Championship Women. Spain won 67:40 to reach 4-0 record in the Group F. Diaz and Delgado paced the winners with 11 points apiece. Bandyk netted 11 in defeat, while Zietara added 7. Hosts Poland dropped to 2-2 in the group and remain in the middle of the group.
Spain grabbed the lead from the early start and Poland could only tie at 4:4. Later on the hosts could do nothing against one of the favorites for gold. Delgado led a 10-0 charge for a 22:11 cushion after one quarter. Kuras reduced to 18:22 but then Spain spurt again for a bigger deficit. Jose Ignacio Hernandez 's team had a 35:24 advantage as both teams disappeared in the lockers.
In the third quarter Poland scored only 6 points and let the opponent to double what they scored. Diaz from the arc made it 47:30 after 30 minutes played. In the last period the game remained in the same current as Spain dominated the court. They won the period 20:10 that gave them 67:40 as total.

Poland U16:Bandyk 11, Zietara 7
Spain U16: Diaz 11, Delgado 11

Bibrzycka shines over Italy - by Eurobasket News
Poland-Italy 63:59

Agnieszka Bibrzycka (184-F/G-82, college: Abil.Christian) was the star of the EuroBasket Women qualifying opener for Poland. Gdansk saw Polish National team overcoming Italy 63:59 as Agnieszka Bibrzycka was unstoppable with 27 points. Anna Wielebnowska (188-C-78) and Paulina Pawlak (170-G-84) followed her with 7 points each as Poland was too good in the second quarter. Simona Ballardini (183-F-81) top-scored for Italian side with 17 points, while Marte Alexander (196-C-76, college: Arizona) and Kathrin Ress (193-F-85, college: Boston Coll.) added 8 apiece.
Polish team won the opening tip of the game and had 12:6 as Anna Wielebnowska made a jump-shot. Italy replied with some baskets in the end to tie at 20:20 as Marte Alexander scored two. The second quarter belonged to the hosts that were admired by Agnieszka Bibrzycka. They created 24:13 in the next 10 minutes for 44:33 lead at the break. Agnieszka Bibrzycka made it 46:35 and then 48:38. Down by 10 early in the final stanza of this Group B clash, Italy came to life. Pastore brought Italy back to 58:56 with 4.35 at the board. Kathrin Ress's jump-shot made it 60:59 with a minute to play. With 40 seconds left, Ewelina Kobryn split a pair of free throws to make it 63:59. It was a great game, but the hosts deserved the win more than the guests.

Poland: Agnieszka Bibrzycka 27, Anna Wielebnowska 7, Paulina Pawlak 7
Italy:Simona Ballardini 17, Marte Alexander, M. 8, Kathrin Ress 8

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  PORTUGAL - Women  


U18 EC, division B: Portugal takes it easily over Luxemburg - by Eurobasket News
U18 Luxemburg - U18 Portugal 39-61

Portugal ended the first day of the Qualifying Round from 9th to 16th place celebrating. Maria Correia (172-G/F-91) and her teammates took control on Luxemburg from the very beginning keeping it until the end. Thus after this victory Portugal improved to 2-0 in Group G while Luxemburg dropped on 0-2.

After entering 8-10, Portuguese made 13-8 run heading to the next period with 16-23. Marcy Goncalves (173-F-90) shined for Portugal in the second frame scoring 6 of Portugal's 12 points in this period. Luxemburg succeeded to net just 8 which meant that Portuguese stretched their lead to 9 points at the half time. After free throw by Sofia Da Silva, Portugal touched plus 15 at the begging of the third stanza. It seemed that Luxemburg gave up after that as Portugal just keep extending advantage until the very end. Portugal finished this game having 7 rebounds more than its opponent. On the other side Luxemburg had a lot of troubles with long range shots. Actually, it players made only 1 of 23 attempts for 3-pts during the entire time.

Maria Correia was the best scorer for the winning team with 13 points while Sofia Da Silva also demonstrated pretty good performance netting 12 points and missing only one rebound for double-double. Marcy Goncalves also helped her team with 12 points. The only player with more than 8 points in Luxemburg was Jil Haentges (182-C-90). She was a way better than the others collecting 15 point and 13 boards.


U18 Luxemburg - U18 Portugal 39-61
(16-23, 8-12, 9-14, 6-12)

Luxemburg: Jil Haentges 15 (13 rebs)
Portugal: Maria Correia 13, Sofia Da Silva 12 (9 rebs), Marcy Goncalves 12

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  ROMANIA - Women  


U16 EC, division B: Romania get through the Preliminary Group D - by Eurobasket News
U16 Romania - U16 Montenegro 84-61

Romany grabbed an extremely important victory against Montenegro advancing to the next stage of U16 European Championship division B in Bulgaria. The important thing for Romania also was 2-point defeat by Croatia against Finland which automatically meant that Romania goes to the Qualifying Round for 1st to 8th place. On the other hand Montenegro remained winless on this championship moving to Qualifying Round for 9th to 16th position.

Quality level between these two teams was more than obvious. Romanians opened the game creating quick 13-4. Later Montenegro came just a little bit closer but after Alexandra Florea's (173-F) jump shot at the last possession in the first stanza Romania grabbed 8-point lead. Second quarter was almost leveled. Jovana Pasic took care for the points in Montenegro while Alexandra Ionescu (172-F-92) and Alexandra Florea done the same in Romania. The game is decided in third period when Romanians played furious ten minutes demonstrating its power. They ended it 32-13 after what they slowed down keeping their lead without any extra effort.

Alexandra Ionescu was the best scorer for the winning team with 19 points. Gabriela Cursaru (161-G-92) also showed pretty good performance finishing the game with 18 points and 5 assists while Alexandra Florea followed her collecting 12 points and 8 boards. Jovana Pasic shined in Montenegro posting 16 points including 4 rebounds. Jelena Vucetic also was good adding 14 points and 6 assists while Ana Turcinovic (185-C-93) had 13 points missing only one rebound for double-double. The firts rival of Slovakia in Group F will be Romania. On the other side Montenegro will take on Estonia in Group H.


U16 Romania - U16 Montenegro 84-61
(22-14, 16-15, 32-13, 14-19)

Romania: Alexandra Ionescu 19, Gabriela Cursaru 18 (5 as), Alexandra Florea 12 (8 rebs)
Montenergo: Jovana Pasic 16 (4 rebs), Jelena Vucetic 14 (6 as), Ana Turcinovic 13 (9 rebs)

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  RUSSIA - Women  


Italy U16 remains perfect, Russia fell shortly - by Eurobasket News
Italy U16-Russia U16 54:50

Italy U16 remained perfect at the Termosteps U16 European Championship Women. Cigliani and Carangelo secured Italy a 54:50 victory over Russia in the first game of Group F. Cigliani paced the winners with 16 points. Marta Masoni (183-F-93) collected 10 points and 8 rebounds, while Formica added 7. Kseniya Efimova (173-F/G) top-scored for Russia with 20 points as her team fell at 1-3. Stolyar, Gumennaya and Kubynina each scored 6 points in the losing effort.
Minaeva's lay-up was the first productive in the game, but Italy took 3:2 lead. Russia played better in the opening tip and grabbed 9:3 in the middle of the quarter. Cigliani knocked down two more long balls as Italy trailed 12:10 after one period. Russia controlled the game in the second quarter until the last 3 minutes as Italy bounced back and stepped in front. Marta Masoni's three gave Italy the lead again and then Formica closed the half at 26:22.
In the beginning of the third quarter a 7-1 from Italy made it for a 38:33 advantage. Russia however answered with 9-0 run for a 42:38 lead. In the end of the game the last time score was tied at 47:47 and then 50:50. For Russian squad it was the last points in the game, but Italy scored 4 more for the victory. Cigliani and Carangelo secured Italy a 54:50 win.

Italy U16:Cigliani 16, Marta Masoni 10+8 rebs, Formica 7
Russia U16:Kseniya Efimova 20, Stolyar 6, Gumennaya 6, Kubynina 6

Russia edge Belarus to gain third straight win - by Eurobasket News
Russia - Belarus 71:65

Russian National Team extended their winning streak at the Olympic Games in China. Today they beat Belarus for the third victory in Group A. Russia remained on top of the ladder, while Belarus dropped to 1-2 record in the standings. It was a close game from the start as neither team would not go till the final seconds. Russia managed to accumulate only a single-point advantage at the first intermission. A strong defensive effort helped the European champions to limit their opponents to 8 points in the second quarter and Russia established a 35:27 lead at halftime. Belarus replied with a 13:7 run at the start of the third quarter and came as close as 2 points from Russia. Svetlana Abrosimova (188-F-80, college: Connecticut) came up with a basket for Russia and fueled a 10:0 rally that put the team up for good. Belarus fought bravely in the fourth term and shaved the deficit to 4 points on several occasions. But the effort was in vain as Russia kept it cool and celebrated the third consecutive win at the event. Maria Stepanova (202-C-79) paced Russia with 13 points and 8 boards. Ilona Korstine (183-G-80) added 11 points and 9 boards, while Rebecca Hammon (168-G-77, college: Colorado St.) had 10 points in a win. Natalia Marchanka (170-G-79) responded with 16 points for Belarus. Yelena Leuchanka (196-C-83, college: W.Virginia) and Katsiaryna Snytsina (188-G/F-85) had 15 points apiece in defeat. Russia outrebounded Belarus 52:41 and held them to just 32% from the field. Russia will take on Brazil, while Belarus play against South Korea on Friday.

Russia: Maria Stepanova 13, Ilona Korstine 11, Rebecca Hammon 10
Belarus: Natalia Marchanka 16, Yelena Leuchanka 15, Katsiaryna Snytsina 15

Poland hold off Russia at U16 European Championship - by Eurobasket News
Poland U16 - Russia U16 83:77

Polish U16 Team scored an important win over Russian counterparts at the start of the Qualifying round at the European Championship. Poland thus climbed to 2-1 record in Group F and remained hopeful about their semifinal ambitions. Russia fell to 1-2 record and stayed at the 4th spot in the ladder. Monika Jasnowska (181-F-92) and Bandyk stepped up for the hosts in the game as they poured in 21 points apiece to carry Poland to a hard-fought win. Russia used trebles from Minaeva and Kseniya Efimova (173-F/G) to accumulate an 8:2 lead early in the first frame. Poland stayed close and surged ahead following a three-pointer from Zietara late in the quarter. However Sazonova and Arzina sealed the outcome at 20:17 for Russia. Maksimova opened the second frame with a trey and Russia kept on maintaining the lead. Poland would not go though and the home team trailed by just 3 points at the interval. Polish team tipped off the second half with an 8:1 surge to take over in the game. They led throughout the third quarter but Stepanova, Sazonova and Kseniya Efimova closed the quarter with 6 points in a row and Russia entered the final stanza leading by 5 points. Bandyk nailed 7 points in the first five minutes of the fourth term and Poland regained the advantage at 70:69. Monika Jasnowska, Bandyk and Kowalska lifted Poland to a 5-point lead and Russia failed to deny in the dying moments. Kowalska scored 16 points for the winners. Kseniya Efimova answered with game-high 22 points for Russia. Stepanova had 13 points and 11 boards in defeat.

Poland U16: Monika Jasnowska 21, Bandyk 21, Anna Kowalska 16
Russia U16: Kseniya Efimova 22, Stepanova 13+11 boards

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  SLOVAKIA - Women  


U16 EC, division B: Slovakia remains perfect after Bosnia and Herzegovina - by Eurobasket News
U16 Bosnia and Herzegovina - U16 Slovak Republic 46-56

Slovakia took care for third victory in Preliminary Round of U16 European Championship division B in Bulgaria. This time Bosnia was faced with Slovakia's power ending competition in Group C winless. Naturally, as a top ranked team of Group C, Slovakia advanced to Group F of the Qualifying Round for 1st to 8th place. The good this for Slovakians is that victory against Netherlands will be transferred to Group F, where already are placed Finland and Romania. Bosnia moved to Group H of Qualifying Round for 9th to 16th place where its rivals will be Bosnia and Croatia while defeat against Estonia will be transferred.

Slovakians made many easy points under the rim in this game. At the same time they grabbed 51 rebounds matched with only 33 by Bosnia. With that kind of deference Bosnia could not resist too long. They succeeded to do it until the half time but then Martina Letkova (-F) and Marta Palenikova stepped up for Slovakia leading their team to 7-14 in third period. After lay-up by Martina Kissova (184-F-93) at the middle of the last frame, Slovakia set the score on 38-53. Natasa Kajtaz and Natasa Tomasovic were the only players in Bosnia which tried to do something more. Unfortunately to them, their teammates were not in a game mood. Slovakians played the rest of the game with routine keeping the top position in Preliminary Group C.

Martina Letkova was the best scorer for Slovakia netting 17 points. Marta Palenikova was behind her with 10 points and 7 boards. Natasa Kajtaz added 16 points and 5 rebounds for the loosing side while Natasa Tomasovic followed her with 8 points.


U16 Bosnia and Herzegovina - U16 Slovak Republic 46-56
(7-8, 17-16, 7-14, 15-18)

Bosnia: Natasa Kajtaz 16 (5 rebs), Natasa Tomasovic 8
Slovakia: Martina Letkova 17, Marta Palenikova 10 (7 rebs)

Zirkova's threes are too much for Hungary - by Eurobasket News
Slovak Republic-Hungary 66:47

Slovak Republic was stronger than Hungary at their EuroBasket Women qualifying campaign in Group C. The hosts edged the opponent 66:47 in the only game so far. Zuzana Zirkova (175-F/G-80) paced the winners with 20 points and 4 rebounds, including 6/12 three-pointers. Katarina Hrickova (180-F-80) nailed 9, while Lucia Kupcikova (184-F-84) and Bronislava Borovickova (170-G-80) scored 8 each. Anna Vajda (191-F/C-84) finished the night with 17 points and 10 rebounds for the guests and Zsofia Fegyverneky (178-G-84) added 11.
Bronislava Borovickova opened the game for the hosts that were supported by 1500 fans in the complex. In a tough opening boith squads stayed together but Horti gave Hungary 14:13 lead after the first 10 minutes of the game. The Slovak Republic soon got back in front but Hungary would not go away as the two team's traded blows until half-time, which came with the hosts ahead by one, 25:24.
Zuzana Zirkova's three was the first in the second half for 28:24. Again her triple made it plus 11, 41:30. Anna Vajda reduced to 43:35 after the thirty minutes of the campaign. Zuzana Zirkova's long-range effort with with 8:10 left in the game made it 52:39, allowing the Slovak Republic to cruise to the finish. Katarina Hrickova posted another two for 58:41 with 4 minutes in the game. Fabianova's three set up the final, 66:47 win for Slovak Republic.

Slovak Republic:Zuzana Zirkova 20+4 rebs, Katarina Hrickova 9, Lucia Kupcikova 8, Bronislava Borovickova 8
Hungary:Anna Vajda 17+10 rebs, Zsofia Fegyverneky 11

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  SLOVENIA - Women  


U16 EC, division B: Slovenia beats Switzerland advancing to the next stage - by Eurobasket News
U16 Switzerland - U16 Slovenia 38-59

Slovenia had an easy job against Switzerland in the last game of Preliminary Round on U16 European Championship division B in Bulgaria. Switzerland couldn't handle tandem Tina Jakovina - Rebeka Abramovic (-93), which paced the winning side in this game. This, Slovenia ended first stage as a top team of Group A with score 3-1 while fourth place belongs to Switzerland which has 1 victory and 3 defeats. Slovenia advanced to Group E of the Qualifying Round for 1st to 8th place. Their opponent in this group will be Denmark and Greece as Slovenians already registered victory against Bulgaria.

Slovenia was a way better team in this game. Switzerland had many problems with long range shooting having seven attempts without any good. Swiss players also committed 31 turnovers what was too much against tough Slovenians. Tina Jakovina and her teammates ended first quarter in style 6-15. Very soon Rebeka Abramovic joined Jakovina which resulted with comfortable 13-33 at the half time. Switzerland had only won player in this game which was able to compete against Slovenians but it was not enough. The official visitor of this game continues at the same rhythm touching plus 26 in third frame.

Tina Jakovina was the key player for Slovenia pouring in 17 points and grabbing 9 boards. Rebeka Abramovic followed her with 10 points. Switzerland got 15 points and 6 boards from Anissa Toumi. Actually she was the only player for the loosing side with double figures as Dana Bozovic was the second scorer with 7 points. Switerzland will continue championship in Qualifying Round from 9th to 16th place - Group G together with Portugal, England and Ireland.


U16 Switzerland - U16 Slovenia 38-59
(6-15, 7-18, 12-17, 13-9)

Switzerland: Anissa Toumi 15 (6 rebs), Dana Bozovic 7
Slovenia: Tina Jakovina 17 (9 rebs), Rebeka Abramovic 10

U18 EC, division B: Slovenia secures semifinals in Skopje - by Eurobasket News
U18 Germany - U18 Slovenia 50-78

Slovenia didn't have to work very hard in order to beat Germany in the first day of the Qualifying Round on U18 European Championship division B in Skopje. As a reminder, Slovenia advanced to the second stage transferring one victory from the Preliminary Round which means that Slovenians improved to 2-0, what is already enough for the semifinals. In the last game of the Qualifying Round Slovenia will meet Greece fighting for the first place in Group E. On the other hand, with this defeat Germany lost all chances to reach one of the medals.

Slovenia had three players in a great mood in this game. After not so brilliant first half, Slovenians demonstrated impressive performance during the next 20 minutes. Nika Baric (168-G-92), Teja Oblak (172-G-90) and Ines Kerin (172-G-90) were on fire. Germans couldn't find a solution how to stop this trio which led Slovenia to 10-24 in this period. There was a ten minutes to go and Slovenia already had comfortable 16-point lead. Germany couldn't recover from this shock continuing to fall down even more. Slovenians ended this game in style making 11-1 run and booking a spot for the semifinals.

Nika Baric was unstoppable today. She spent 35 minutes on court adding 19 points, 6 boards and 8 assists. Teja Oblak also shined scoring 19 points while Ines Kerin had one points less than her. Pia Mankertz (170-G-90) was the best scorer for the loosing team with 15 points. Leonie Bleker had 12 points and 5 rebounds. In the last game of the Qualifying Round Germany will meet Estonia.


U18 Germany - U18 Slovenia 50-78
(11-17, 15-11, 10-24, 14-26)

Germany: Pia Mankertz 15, Leonie Bleker 12 (5 rebs)
Slovenia: Nika Baric 19 (6 rebs, 8 as), Teja Oblak 19, Ines Kerin 18

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  SOUTH KOREA - Women  


Australia post third win in a row - by Eurobasket News
Australia - South Korea 90:62

Australian National Team added one more win to the stats at the Olympic Games basketball tournament today. They had no problems en route to a comfortable victory over South Korea in the third round of action in Group A. Penny Taylor (185-F-81) scored 18 points, pulled down 7 boards and dished out 4 assists to pace the Opals. Suzy Batkovic (193-C-80) added 18 points and 10 boards to ensure the winning outcome. Beon Yeon Ha (182-F-80) answered with 21 points for Korean team as they dropped to 1-2 record. The Opals wasted little time early in the encounter and went on 12:6 lead to start it. They rolled confidently and enjoyed a 23:14 cushion at the first break. The world champs knocked down 12 unanswered points in the second frame and their advantage grew to 19 points. Korea however refused to fold and cut the margin to 14 points at halftime. Beon Yeon Ha fueled another rally from the Asian team as they came as close as 8 points early in the third frame. But the Opals came back to life pretty quickly and outscored their opponents 26:17 in the third period to build a 23-point buffer before the fourth quarter. Korea failed to answer and Australia breezed to the win late in the game. Lauren Jackson (196-F/C-81) secured 16 points and 6 boards for the winners. Jung Sun Min (186-C-74) had 11 points for Korea in defeat. Australia outrebounded their counterparts 44:25 and shot impressive 53% from the field. Korea answered with 37% accuracy of field goals.

Australia: Penny Taylor 18, Suzy Batkovic 18+10 boards, Lauren Jackson 16
South Korea: Beon Yeon Ha 21, Jung Sun Min 11

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  SPAIN - Women  


Spain U16 advance to the semis - by Eurobasket News
Poland U16-Spain U16 40:67

Spain U16 used a defensive style over Poland to advance to the semifinal of the Termosteps U16 European Championship Women. Spain won 67:40 to reach 4-0 record in the Group F. Diaz and Delgado paced the winners with 11 points apiece. Bandyk netted 11 in defeat, while Zietara added 7. Hosts Poland dropped to 2-2 in the group and remain in the middle of the group.
Spain grabbed the lead from the early start and Poland could only tie at 4:4. Later on the hosts could do nothing against one of the favorites for gold. Delgado led a 10-0 charge for a 22:11 cushion after one quarter. Kuras reduced to 18:22 but then Spain spurt again for a bigger deficit. Jose Ignacio Hernandez 's team had a 35:24 advantage as both teams disappeared in the lockers.
In the third quarter Poland scored only 6 points and let the opponent to double what they scored. Diaz from the arc made it 47:30 after 30 minutes played. In the last period the game remained in the same current as Spain dominated the court. They won the period 20:10 that gave them 67:40 as total.

Poland U16:Bandyk 11, Zietara 7
Spain U16: Diaz 11, Delgado 11

Spain U16 thrashes Hungary U16 - by Eurobasket News
Hungary U16-Spain U16 31:73

Spain U16 recorded 3-0 after an easy win over Hungary U16 last night. Spain was too good for the opponent with 73:31 at the Termosteps U16 European Championship Women. Gil led the winners with 13 points and 10 rebounds. E Diaz netted 11, while Y Diaz added 8. Bettina Baksa (172-G-92) Bettina top-scored for Hungary with 11 points and Manyoky scored 5.
Spain started to ruin Hungary in the opening quarter. Gil scored seven points as Spain jumped ahead early 9:2.Spain increased to 17:5 but then Hungary made it 18:9 at the end of the first period. In the second quarter the latter player even and trailed 19:29 at the half.
Bettina Baksa kept Hungary within 33:23 however Queralt Casas and Diaz hit triples in a 17-0 surge to blow the game open 50:23. Mansare closed the third quarter at 52:27 with the superiority of Spain. Another quarter was the last one and another troublesome for Hunagry. Spain thrashed the opponent in the final stanza 21:4 and easily reached 3-0 record in the group. Hungary fell at 0-3 and remained on the bottom of the group.

Hungary U16: Bettina Baksa 11, Manyoky 5
Spain U16:Gil 13+10 rebs, E Diaz 11, Y Diaz 8

Spain outscore Czech Republic in Beijing - by Eurobasket News
Spain - Czech Republic 74:55

Spanish National team rebounded after the starting loss to China at the Olympic Games. Today they posted their second straight victory and boosted their ambitions for the Olympic tournament. Czechs in the meantime suffered their second loss in three games in Group B. Czech Republic used a sloppy form of Spain team early in the game to jump in front. They enjoyed a 20:11 lead at one point in the first quarter however Spaniards quickly bounced back. They went on a 17:7 run over the next 11 minutes and secured a 28:27 advantage at the interval. Amaya Valdemoro (184-F-76), Elisa Aguilar (178-G-76, college: George Washington) and Ana Montanana (186-F-80, college: George Washington) all connected from beyond the arc and Spain went on a decisive run in the third quarter. They outgunned Czech team 30:11 in the frame to establish a massive 20-point cushion before the fourth period. Czech Republic just managed to keep it up with Spain in the final term but never seriously threaten the advantage. Ana Montanana notched 20 points for Spain. Amaya Valdemoro added 13 points, while Isabel Sanchez (178-G-76) finished with 10 for the winning side. Eva Viteckova (190-F-82) chipped in 12 points for Czech Republic. Hana Machova (182-F/G-79) secured 11 points and 8 rebounds in defeat. Spain converted 50% from the field including 35% from beyond the arc. Spain outrebounded their opponents 34:29 and forced Czech team into 24 turnovers.

Spain: Ana Montanana 20, Amaya Valdemoro 13, Isabel Sanchez 10
Czech Republic: Eva Viteckova 12, Hana Machova 11

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  SWEDEN - Women  


Sweden knock down Turkey at the start of the Qualifying round in Katowice - by Eurobasket News
Sweden U16 - Turkey U16 68:50

Swedish U16 National Team began their European Championship Qualifying round campaign with a comfortable win over Turkey. Farhiya Abdi (186-F-92) stepped up for the Scandinavian team with 21 points and 14 boards and Sweden left no chance for their opponents. Sweden thus improved to 2-1 record, while dropping Turkey to 1-2 in Group E. Turkey jumped to a quick start as they piled up a 9:2 lead early in the game. However Sweden answered with a 20:3 run to establish a 22:12 lead at the end of the first period. Kalfali and Rana Derin (177-F-92) cut the gap to 4 points early in the second quarter but Sweden remained alert and rolled to a 40:31 advantage at halftime. They opened the third frame with a 6:0 run to gain a 15-point lead. Turkey failed to answer this time and Sweden headed into the fourth stanza up by 19 points. All Turkey could do was to cut the deficit to 15 points however they did not seriously threaten Swedish lead at the end. Salome Kabengano (178-G-92) and Amanda Zahui added 12 points each for Sweden. Hasahya Ngoie had 9 points in a winning case. Emel Guler (187-F-92) notched 12 points and 15 boards for Turkey. Rana Derin secured 11 points in defeat. Turkey will face Belgium, while Sweden will take on France today.

Sweden U16: Farhiya Abdi 21+14 boards, Salome Kabengano 12, Amanda Zahui 12
Turkey U16: Emel Guler 12+15 boards, Rana Derin 11

France U16 enters the semis - by Eurobasket News
France U16-Sweden U16 80:36

France U16 reached the semifinals of Termosteps U16 European Championship. In the first game of the day the team demolished Sweden 80:36 and sent them to 2-2 record. A 24:3 was too much for the opponent in the third quarter as France nailed 24. Florine Basque (184-F-92) paced all the winners with 18 points. Grossemy netted 10, while Diallo scored 9. Farhiya Abdi (186-F-92) top-scored for Sweden with 14 points and 9 rebounds as Salome Kabengano (178-G-92), Zahui and Gustavsson scored 4 each.
France scored first five points of the game but had only 11:8 lead in the opening tip. Aulnette was the last to score in the first quarter for 20:10 advantage. Farhiya Abdi converted a three-point play to trim the deficit to 22:15 early in the second but Florine Basque hit for seven points as France closed the half on a 18-8 run for a 40:23 lead at intermission.
In the third quarter there was only one team dominating the court, France. The favorite produced 17-0 run to make it 57:25. Farhiya Abdi scored for 64:26 at the end of the third period. France used another 16-10 in the last quarter and easily won the encounter. Diallo's jump shot set up the final, 80:36 margin.

France U16: Florine Basque 18, Grossemy 10, Diallo 9
Sweden U16: Farhiya Abdi 14+9 rebs, Salome Kabengano 4, Zahui 4, Gustavsson 4

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  SWITZERLAND - Women  


U16 EC, division B: Slovenia beats Switzerland advancing to the next stage - by Eurobasket News
U16 Switzerland - U16 Slovenia 38-59

Slovenia had an easy job against Switzerland in the last game of Preliminary Round on U16 European Championship division B in Bulgaria. Switzerland couldn't handle tandem Tina Jakovina - Rebeka Abramovic (-93), which paced the winning side in this game. This, Slovenia ended first stage as a top team of Group A with score 3-1 while fourth place belongs to Switzerland which has 1 victory and 3 defeats. Slovenia advanced to Group E of the Qualifying Round for 1st to 8th place. Their opponent in this group will be Denmark and Greece as Slovenians already registered victory against Bulgaria.

Slovenia was a way better team in this game. Switzerland had many problems with long range shooting having seven attempts without any good. Swiss players also committed 31 turnovers what was too much against tough Slovenians. Tina Jakovina and her teammates ended first quarter in style 6-15. Very soon Rebeka Abramovic joined Jakovina which resulted with comfortable 13-33 at the half time. Switzerland had only won player in this game which was able to compete against Slovenians but it was not enough. The official visitor of this game continues at the same rhythm touching plus 26 in third frame.

Tina Jakovina was the key player for Slovenia pouring in 17 points and grabbing 9 boards. Rebeka Abramovic followed her with 10 points. Switzerland got 15 points and 6 boards from Anissa Toumi. Actually she was the only player for the loosing side with double figures as Dana Bozovic was the second scorer with 7 points. Switerzland will continue championship in Qualifying Round from 9th to 16th place - Group G together with Portugal, England and Ireland.


U16 Switzerland - U16 Slovenia 38-59
(6-15, 7-18, 12-17, 13-9)

Switzerland: Anissa Toumi 15 (6 rebs), Dana Bozovic 7
Slovenia: Tina Jakovina 17 (9 rebs), Rebeka Abramovic 10

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  TURKEY - Women  


Sweden knock down Turkey at the start of the Qualifying round in Katowice - by Eurobasket News
Sweden U16 - Turkey U16 68:50

Swedish U16 National Team began their European Championship Qualifying round campaign with a comfortable win over Turkey. Farhiya Abdi (186-F-92) stepped up for the Scandinavian team with 21 points and 14 boards and Sweden left no chance for their opponents. Sweden thus improved to 2-1 record, while dropping Turkey to 1-2 in Group E. Turkey jumped to a quick start as they piled up a 9:2 lead early in the game. However Sweden answered with a 20:3 run to establish a 22:12 lead at the end of the first period. Kalfali and Rana Derin (177-F-92) cut the gap to 4 points early in the second quarter but Sweden remained alert and rolled to a 40:31 advantage at halftime. They opened the third frame with a 6:0 run to gain a 15-point lead. Turkey failed to answer this time and Sweden headed into the fourth stanza up by 19 points. All Turkey could do was to cut the deficit to 15 points however they did not seriously threaten Swedish lead at the end. Salome Kabengano (178-G-92) and Amanda Zahui added 12 points each for Sweden. Hasahya Ngoie had 9 points in a winning case. Emel Guler (187-F-92) notched 12 points and 15 boards for Turkey. Rana Derin secured 11 points in defeat. Turkey will face Belgium, while Sweden will take on France today.

Sweden U16: Farhiya Abdi 21+14 boards, Salome Kabengano 12, Amanda Zahui 12
Turkey U16: Emel Guler 12+15 boards, Rana Derin 11

Turkey U16 writes down the first loss for Belgium U16 - by Eurobasket News
Turkey U16-Belgium U16 62:59

Belgium U16 suffered the first loss at the Termosteps U16 European Championship. Turkey wrote down the upset with 62:59 due to 20:11 in the last period. Cakir led the winners with 13 points and 7 rebounds. Emel Guler (187-F-92) collected 12 points and 14 rebounds, while Kalfali netted 11. Emma Meesseman (188-C-93) top-scored with 24 points and 12 rebounds in defeat.
Belgium easily scored first nine points in the game and grabbed 9:0 advantage. Turkey answered with 6-0 run as Ozturk made a lay-up to close it. With some back-to-back baskets Belgium was in front, 17:16 after the opening quarter. Turkey played better in the second but Emma Meesseman sparked an 11-2 answer and the game would be knotted at 33:33 at the break.
Again Emma Meesseman hit eight more points in a 12-2 surge to take a 45:38 advantage. Mestdagh scored two for 50:42 as the teams entered the last period. Her team led the game until the last three minutes of the game. Cakir brought Turkey to 58:57 with less than 2 minutes to play. Emel Guler scored last four points in the encounter as Turkey won the battle 62:59.

Turkey U16:Cakir 13+7 rebs, Emel Guler 12+14 rebs, Kalfali 11
Belgium U16:Emma Meesseman 24+12 rebs, De Bondt 10

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  U.S. VIRGIN ISLANDS - Women  


VI girls whip Antigua in CBC - by David Edole
Virgin Islands junior women opened the sixth annual Caribbean Basketball Championship with a resounding win over Antigua and Barbudas Wadadli Wildcats, 69-9, Tuesday night. The V.I. jumped out to a commanding 28-0 first quarter and never looked back. Too much pressure by the starters and it resulted in us playing the bench for most of the game, said assistant coach Myron Corbett.
John H. Woodsons Kadesha Barry ran circles around the Wildcats to lead the USVI with 12 points and nine steals. Bary, only 13 years old, is the youngest member of the team. Hanifah Hendricks (Country Day), Te'Andra Richardson (Charlotte Amalie) and Kelssy De La Cruz(Charlotte Amalie) all gave good support by scoring 10 points each for the victors.
Arianne Whyte had four points, 17 rebounds and two blocked shots and Tyea Ladoo chipped in with four points and five boards for the Antiguans.
Up next for the Virgin Islands team is the Bahamas. These two teams always play well against each other. The last time the two teams met the V.I. won a physical game. 'This should be a real good game 'added Corbett. 'They have been a thorn in our side for years.'
Because of only three teams in the tourney each team will play each other twice. All three teams advance to CenroBasket next summer.

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  UKRAINE - Women  


Ukraine won the opener of the EuroBasket Women Division A campaign - by Eurobasket News

Ukraine-Great Britain 59:54

Ukraine won the opener of the EuroBasket Women Division A campaign tonight beating Great Britain 59:54 in their Group A campaign. The first half was enough to say in front of the game until the last seconds. Olexandra Gorbunova (186-F-86) led the winners with 18 points and 6 rebounds. Olena Zherzherunova (191-F-78, agency: LBM Management) and Iryna Biryuk (178-G-78) supported her with 13 points apiece as the spectators were glad for the win in the opener. Johannah Leedham (180-G/F-87) top-scored for the guests with 14 points. Butler collected 12 points and 8 rebounds, whilst Megan Moody (188-G/F-83, college: Tulsa) added 10.
Ukrainian side took the control from the middle of the opening quarter. Trailing 2:6 the hosts created a 15-0 surge at the end of the first half and led to 33:18 lead. Olexandra Gorbunova continued to ruin the opponent in the third quarter but Johannah Leedham cut to 52:39 after 30 minutes of the game. Megan Moody made it 55:48 and Johannah Leedham had the next four points to make it 57:52. Yegorova nailed a free throw for 6 points advantage with 17 seconds remaining. Mason replied with two the same from the line for 58:54. It was again Yegorova after the foul to seal the initial victory for the Ukrainian side.

In another game of the group Israel beat Lithuania 63:47. Germany will start their campaign in the next game.

Ukraine:Olexandra Gorbunova 18+6 rebs, Olena Zherzherunova 13, Iryna Biryuk 13
Great Britain: Johannah Leedham 14, Butler 12+8 rebs, Megan Moody 10



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  UNITED KINGDOM - Women  


U18 EC, division B: Bosnia outplays England 66-52 - by Eurobasket News
U18 Bosnia and Herzegovina - U18 England 66-52

It was a joyful first day of the Qualifying Round for 9th to 16th place for Bosnians. They managed to beat England easier than anyone expected. As a remainder, Bosnians entered into this round transferring one defeat from the first stage but now they improved to 1-1 in Group H with a nice chance to grab one of the first two places. Situation is totally deferent with England as it currently has 0-2 in the same group.

Bosnia had impressive beginning. Anesa Hamsic (187-C-91) and Irena Vrancic (167-G-90) were on fire thus after almost five minutes the score was 13-0 for Bosnia. Later they extended lead to 22-5 what was a sign that Bosnians will most probably take this one. They slowed down during the next ten minutes which Charlotte Stoddart (177-F-90) and her teammates exploited coming of 30-25 at the half time. Third quarter was totally leveled. Actually, England succeeded to come on 37-36 once but very quick Bosnians grabbed back plus 5 how much they had on the half time. Game is decided at the half way of the last frame when Anesa Hamsic led 7-0 run for her team setting the score on 53-47. After that moment England succeeded to touch minus 3 but nothing more than that.

Anesa Hamsic was the key player for Bosnia in this game. She spent almost the entire time on the court managing to score 22 points and grab 8 boards. Irena Vrancic also had good performance adding 15 points and 6 rebounds while Aleksandra Stojanovic (173-G-90) helped her team with 12 points. Charlotte Stoddart collected 12 points and 6 rebounds in England while Hannah Shaw (192-F-90) finished the game with 11 points and 7 rebounds.


U18 Bosnia and Herzegovina - U18 England 66-52
(22-7, 8-18, 14-14, 22-13)

Bosnia: Anesa Hamsic 21 (8 rebs), Irena Vrancic 15 (6 rebs), Aleksandra Stojanovic 12
England: Charlotte Stoddart 12 (6 rebs), Hannah Shaw 11 (7 rebs)

Ukraine won the opener of the EuroBasket Women Division A campaign - by Eurobasket News

Ukraine-Great Britain 59:54

Ukraine won the opener of the EuroBasket Women Division A campaign tonight beating Great Britain 59:54 in their Group A campaign. The first half was enough to say in front of the game until the last seconds. Olexandra Gorbunova (186-F-86) led the winners with 18 points and 6 rebounds. Olena Zherzherunova (191-F-78, agency: LBM Management) and Iryna Biryuk (178-G-78) supported her with 13 points apiece as the spectators were glad for the win in the opener. Johannah Leedham (180-G/F-87) top-scored for the guests with 14 points. Butler collected 12 points and 8 rebounds, whilst Megan Moody (188-G/F-83, college: Tulsa) added 10.
Ukrainian side took the control from the middle of the opening quarter. Trailing 2:6 the hosts created a 15-0 surge at the end of the first half and led to 33:18 lead. Olexandra Gorbunova continued to ruin the opponent in the third quarter but Johannah Leedham cut to 52:39 after 30 minutes of the game. Megan Moody made it 55:48 and Johannah Leedham had the next four points to make it 57:52. Yegorova nailed a free throw for 6 points advantage with 17 seconds remaining. Mason replied with two the same from the line for 58:54. It was again Yegorova after the foul to seal the initial victory for the Ukrainian side.

In another game of the group Israel beat Lithuania 63:47. Germany will start their campaign in the next game.

Ukraine:Olexandra Gorbunova 18+6 rebs, Olena Zherzherunova 13, Iryna Biryuk 13
Great Britain: Johannah Leedham 14, Butler 12+8 rebs, Megan Moody 10



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  WNBA - Women  


39 current and former WNBA players on Olympic teams roster - by Eurobasket News
Today the IOC officially posted complete rosters for each of the 12 women's basketball teams competing in the 2008 Olympic Games. The WNBA is heavily represented with 39 current and former players among those who will go for the gold beginning Saturday, Aug. 9. In all, a current or former WNBA player dots the roster of 10 of the 12 countries participating in this year's Olympics.

Each of the 12 members of the U.S. Olympic Women's Basketball Team currently play in the WNBA, led by three-time Olympic gold medalist Lisa Leslie (6'5''-C-72, college: USC) (Los Angeles Sparks) and two-time Olympic gold medalist Katie Smith (Detroit Shock). Sue Bird (Seattle Storm), Tamika Catchings (Indiana Fever), Diana Taurasi (Phoenix Mercury) and Tina Thompson (Houston Comets) also return from the gold-medal winning 2004 U.S. Olympic Team in Athens while DeLisha Milton-Jones (Los Angeles Sparks) previously won gold with the 2000 U.S. Olympic Team in Sydney.

First-time Olympians for the United States include rookie standouts Candace Parker (Los Angeles Sparks) and Sylvia Fowles (Chicago Sky) as well as Kara Lawson (Sacramento Monarchs), Seimone Augustus (Minnesota Lynx) and Cappie Pondexter (Phoenix Mercury). Collectively, the U.S. Olympic Team boasts 10 gold medals and will go for their fourth Olympic gold in a row.

The Australian Olympic Team features eight current or former WNBA players, led by reigning WNBA MVP Lauren Jackson (Seattle Storm) and Tully Bevilaqua (Indiana Fever).

Several other active WNBA players will appear in Beijing. Becky Hammon (San Antonio Silver Stars) will play for the Russian Olympic squad, while Hamchetou Maiga-Ba (Houston Comets) will represent Mali and Kelly Santos (Seattle Storm) will play for Brazil.

Current WNBA rosters featuring more than one Olympian include the Los Angeles Sparks (3- Leslie, Parker, Milton-Jones), Seattle Storm (3- Bird, Jackson, Santos), Phoenix Mercury (2- Taurasi, Pondexter), Houston Comets (2- Thompson, Maiga-Ba) and Indiana Fever (2- Catchings, Bevilaqua).

Coaches also bring WNBA pedigrees as well. Former WNBA head coaches Anne Donovan (Charlotte Sting, Fever, Storm) and Tom Maher (Washington Mystics) will coach the United States and China, respectively while current Connecticut Sun head coach Mike Thibault will serve as an assistant coach for the U.S. Olympic Team. Two former WNBA players will also serve as assistant coaches. Dawn Staley, previously a star player with the Sting and Comets, joins Donovan's staff and Michele Timms, an original player for the Mercury, will assist Maher.

The 2008 WNBA season will resume play on Aug. 28 following the Olympics. A complete list of Olympic basketball players with WNBA experience follows.

Courtesy of WNBA

Tangela Smith has knee surgery - by Eurobasket News
Phoenix Mercury announced that starting center on Tangela Smith (6'4''-F/C-77, college: Iowa) underwent arthroscopic surgery on her right knee on Tuesday morning.

Team physician Dr. Evan Lederman performed the surgery, and the 6-foot-4-inch Smith is expected to fully recover in four to six weeks.

Smith is the Mercury's third-leading scorer this season, averaging 11.1 points per game.

Interesting is Smith was one of four Phoenix players to start all 34 games en route to winning last season's WNBA championship. She has started 25 of 27 games this year.

Phoenix Mercury return to action following the Olympic break on Aug. 28. The team will host San Antonio at 7 p.m.

Courtesy of www.azcentral.com

USA coast past Mali - by Eurobasket News
USA - Mali 97:41

The United States National Team breezed past Mali at the Olympic Games basketball tournament today. The victory marked the third straight success for the USA team in Group B. The African powerhouse suffered their third straight loss and remained at the bottom of the ladder. However the first minutes of the game did not reveal the USA advantage. Mali trailed by just a single point 8:9 midway through the first stanza. But the North American team soon gained control over the game and went on a 15:3 run to build a 24:12 advantage at the first break. The USA team continued their onslaught in the second frame. They opened the quarter with 12:3 rally to maintain a 21-point lead midway through the period. Mali failed to answer and found themselves trailing by as many as 23 points at halftime. Another surge from the USA at the start of the third period put them in charge 65:30. The North American team never looked back in the reminder of the contest and cruised to the victory at the end. Lisa Leslie (6'5''-C-72, college: USC) paced the USA with 16 points. Seimone Augustus (6'1''-G-84, college: LSU) dropped 12 points, while Tina Thompson (6'2''-F-75, agency: Merit Sports, college: USC) and Candace Parker (6'4''-F/C-86, college: Tennessee) had 10 points each for the winners. Aminata Sinita had 13 points for Mali. Fatoumata Bagayokoc (-G-88) and Meiya Tirera (5'11''-F-86) secured 7 points apiece in defeat. The United States sank 62% from the field and limited their opponents to just 25% accuracy. The winners also forced the African team to 29 turnovers.

USA: Lisa Leslie 16, Seimone Augustus 12, Tina Thompson 10, Candace Parker 10
Mali: Aminata Sinita 13, Fatoumata Bagayokoc 7, Meiya Tirera 7