EUROBASKET NEWS REPORT - 8/25/2008

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Men News

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  ARGENTINA   


Olympic Games: Argentina outplays Lithuania for the Bronze in Beijing - by Eurobasket News
Lithuania - Argentina 75-87

Argentina demonstrated fantastic performance against Lithuania wining the Bronze on the Olympic Games 2008. Argentineans didn't succeed to defend the Gold from the previous Olympics but they made wonderful success, especially because they played against tough Lithuanians without Emanuel Ginobili (198-G-77, agency: Interperformances), who sprained his ankle in the semifinals.

Argentina entered into this game more focused. After almost 4 minutes Carlos Delfino (199-G-82) and Luis Scola (206-F/C-80) led their team to 6-10. Ten second until the end of the first frame, Argentina reached plus five but thanks to Sarunas Jasikevicius's (192-G-76, college: Maryland) basket from the fast break at the last Lithuania's possession it was 21-24. At the middle of third stanza Argentineans created fantastic 12-1 run, ended by triple from Andres Nocioni (199-F-79), for 28-38. Later thanks to Carlos Delfino and Paolo Quinteros (185-G-79) Argentina extended lead to 12 points until the half time. Nothing has changed after the breather as Lithuanians weren't able to compete against Carlos Delfino and his teammates, which made 44-68 in 28th minute. At the point of game it was already known that the Bronze belongs to Argentina.

Carlos Delfino paced Argentina to victory collecting 20 points and 10 boards for 36 minutes. Luis Scola also was pretty good scoring 16 points while Andres Nocioni has two points less but with 8 boards. Lithuania got the most from Ramunas Siskauskas, who netted 15 points and grabbed 6 boards. Rimantas Kaukenas (193-G-77, college: Seton Hall) followed with 14 points and 4 rebounds.


Lithuania - Argentina 75-87
(21-24, 13-22, 15-22, 26-19)

Lithuania: Ramunas Siskauskas 15 (6 rebs), Rimantas Kaukenas 14 (4 rebs)
Argentina: Carlos Delfino 20 (10 rebs), Luis Scola 16, Andres Nocioni 14 (8 rebs)

Argentina reaches No 1 position - by Leonardo Contieri
Two good news for Argentina's Basketball in a few hours. First, Argentina earned the bronze medal at Beijing Olympics by defeating Lithuania, a few hours later, on its official website, the FIBA showed Argentina as the ranking leader having surpassed previous leader, USA. Argentina got benefitted form earning point since the team did not play in 2000 Olypmic Games in Sydney while USA won the golf medal on both tournaments, so they did not improved its scoring.

Asociacion Espanola sign Zach Williams - by Eurobasket
Asociacion Espanola (TNA) strengthened their roster with addition of 26-year old American forward Zach Williams (201-F-82, college: Wright St., agency: Court Side). Williams seems like 'Spanish' word as last season he played for Spanish team CB Ourense. He spent his whole pro career in Europe playing for various teams in Finland, Sweden, France and Spain. It will be his fourth professional season.

Pedro Echague Capital Federal sign Adam Liddell - by Eurobasket
Pedro Echag?e Capital Federal (TNA) signed American forward Adam Liddell (203-F, college: Florida Gulf Coast). Liddell played most recently at Florida Gulf Coast University (NCAA) in the U.S., where he averaged 10.4ppg and 5.0rpg in 20 games. It will be his first year in professional basketball.

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  AUSTRALIA   


The Blaze outscore the Spirit in preseason action - by Eurobasket News
Gold Coast - Sydney 108:100

The NBL teams are getting fit for the upcoming regular season with a number of friendly games being played recently. Yesterday the Gold Coast Blaze posted a solid win over the Sydney Spirit at the Southport School. The renamed and refurbished Sydney team got to a nice start to the game as they led 8:0 early on. However the Blaze soon adjusted their defense and began paving their way back. Scott McGregor (203-F-76) knocked down 8 points in the first period and the Blaze surged ahead 29:22 after the opening quarter. The Spirit retained the lead early in the second quarter but Gold Coast stayed close. Pero Cameron (199-F-74, agency: Duran International) stepped up for the hosts late in the second period as his two trebles fueled an 8:0 rally and saw Gold Coast accumulate a 52:46 advantage at halftime. The Spirit once again denied the deficit at early stages of the third frame. But this time it was Shane Heal (182-G-70), who sparked the home team as they cleared off to a 10-point distance. The Spirit never threatened the lead in the fourth term and the Blaze recorded another preseason win. Shane Heal finished with game-high 24 points. Scott McGregor added 15 points and 6 boards, while Pero Cameron had 14 points for the winners. Matthew Knight (203-F/C-85, college: Loyola Marymount) answered with 20 points for the Spirit. David Gruber (198-F/C-81, college: N.Iowa) added 16 points and 11 boards, while Julian Khazzouh (209-C-86) notched 14 points in defeat.
Both teams will next take part in the Queensland Cup in Cairns. The event will also feature the Cairns Taipans and the Townsville Crocodiles.

Gold Coast: Shane Heal 24, Scott McGregor 15, Pero Cameron 14
Sydney: Matthew Knight 20, David Gruber 16+11 boards

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  AUSTRIA   


Austrian National Team visits Romania - by Eurobasket News
Austrian National Team played three friendly games as the part of their preparation for the upcoming EuroBasket Division B Qualifying round games. Austria travelled to Romania to take part in the Toni Alexe Memorial. Austria lost to Macedonia in the opening round of the event. Macedonia controlled the tempo and rolled to a comfortable 66:91 victory. Deteri Mayes (189-G-74, agency: Court Side, college: Murray St.) came up with 14 points for Austria. Jandl had 12 points, while Thomas Schreiner (195-G-87, agency: Octagon) added 10 in defeat.
Austria next met with Romania on Saturday. The visitors dominated the game building a 27:19 lead after ten minutes of action. Romania managed to slow down Austria in the second period however they failed to come any closer. Austria stretched the gap after the long break. Austrian players shifted to different gear and easily ran away to a 14-point distance before the fourth quarter. Romania just trim the deficit a bit in the fourth period but still lost the battle. Deteri Mayes topscored for Austria with 23 points. Matthias Mayer (206-C/F-81) added 17 points, while Thomas Schreiner knocked down 10 points in the win.
In the final encounter at the tournament Austria faced Serbian Lions Vrsac. Leading by 9 points at halftime Austria however failed to deliver the right result. The Serbian team recovered well in the second half and posted a narrow 68:63 win at the end. Deteri Mayes was once again the best scorer for Austria with 14 points. Heinz Kugerl (211-C-86) netted 10 points in defeat.
Austria will tip off their EuroBasket Qualification campaign against Denmark away from home on September 6.

Austrian National Team for 2008 - by Stefan Heinrich
#s#
#e#6


Mayes


Mayer


Jandl


Hutter


Speiser
Today the official 12 man roster for the Qualifciatoin was announced:

#4 Christian Kollik (203-G/F-80) of UBSC Graz
#5 Thomas Schreiner (195-G-87) of Basketball St. Polten
#6 David Jandl (180-G-84) of Calefacciones Farho Gijon (ESP)
#7 Richard Poiger (206-F-87) of LTi Giessen 46ers (GER)
#8 Martin Speiser (200-F-83) of Basketball St. Polten
#9 Peter Hutter (196-F/G-80) of Allianz Swans Gmunden
#10 Christoph Nagler (193-G-84) of Xion Dukes Klosterneuburg
#11 Matthias Dockner (204-F/C-84) of BasketClubs Vienna
#12 Heinz Kugerl (211-C-86) of Kapfenberg Bulls
#13 Deteri Mayes (189-G-74) of Allianz Swans Gmunden
#14 Benedikt Danek (174-G-86) of Arkadia Traiskirchen Lions
#15 Matthias Mayer (206-C/F-81) of Allianz Swans Gmunden

Head Coach: Nino Asceric
Ass. Coach: Gerald Vogler

This is the schedule of Qualification games for Austria in Group A:

06.09.2008: Denmark vs Austria in Aarhus (14.30)
10.09.2008: Austria vs Netherlands in Gussing (20:20)
13.09.2008: Montenegro vs Austria in Podgorica (20:30)
20.09.2008: Austria vs Iceland in Gussing (20:20)

U16 EC, division B: Thriller for Austria against F.Y.R. of Macedonia - by Eurobasket News
U16 F.Y.R. of Macedonia - U16 Austria 68-71

Austria succeeded to beat F.Y.R. of Macedonia in very exciting game. It wouldn't be undeserved if Macedonians took it as they played pretty good 30 minutes. After this tight victory Austria will have a chance to fight for 13th place on U16 European Championship division B in Sarajevo. Its opponent, which for sure has the same ambitions, will be Iceland. Macedonia will take on Portugal for 15th place.

After totally leveled first half of the game (42-42), Macedonians started to play much better. They intensified defense forcing Austria to make many mistakes. Vladimir Gotik and Nikola Gajdadjiev were on fire and together with their teammates ended third frame scoring solid 18 points. On the other side Austrians missed many shots, especially from behind the arc, which resulted with only 9 points. Totally different picture was seen on the court in the last frame. Everything what Macedonia done in third period, Austria done much better in this one. Game is decided in the last 13 seconds. On 66-70 for Austria Vladimir Gotik made a jump shot after Gavrilovic committed personal foul. Ngoy made first but missed second free throw. Nikola Gajdadjiev attempted to score a triple, which would lead his team to over time, but unfortunately to Macedonians he missed.

Ferdinand Saukel (196-F-92) destroyed Macedonia in this game nailing 26 points and grabbing 12 boards. Filip Kramer also shined for the winning team with 18 points and 6 rebounds. Vladimir Gotik was the best in Macedonia with 23 points and 4 rebounds. Nikola Gajdadjiev finished the game with double-double, 20 points, 11 rebounds and 4 assists.


U16 F.Y.R. of Macedonia - U16 Austria 68-71
(17-18, 25-24, 18-9, 8-20)

Macedonia: Vladimir Gotik 23 (4 rebs), Nikola Gajdadjiev 20 (11 rebs, 4 as)
Austria: Ferdinand Saukel 26 (12 rebs), Filip Kramer 18 (6 rebs)

Adam Boone back in Austria! - by Stefan Heinrich
According to his agency Interperformence, Adam Boone (190-G-81, college: Minnesota) will come back to Austria. After playing 2 season with the Gunners, he will move to their rivals and play for the Furstenfeld Panthers in the 2008/09 season. The 2 time OBL All-Star lost in the Finals against Furstenfeld and in the 2006/07 season he lost with the Gunners against the Gmunden Swans.

Last season Boone averaged 12.8ppg, 4.8rpg, 4.2apg and 1.2spg in 45 games.

U16 EC, division B: Iceland cruises past Austria for 13th place - by Eurobasket News
U16 Iceland - U16 Austria 65-48

Iceland registered an easy victory against Austria in the last day of U16 European Championship division B in Sarajevo. It means that Iceland ended it on 13th place. One lower belongs to Austria.

Iceland had much better shooting day than Austria. The winning side finished this one with 33% for 3-pts, 50% for FG2 and 79% from the free throw line while Austria had 11% for 3-pts, 37% for FG2 and 59% free throws. Except of the first quarter, which Asutria ended 15-17, Iceland was a way better team. Haukur Palsson once again shined in his team helping it to create plus 4 at the half time. Later Iceland extended lead on 49-40. Austrians weren't able even to threat until the end. Actually during the last ten minutes Iceland just increased its digits.

Haukur Palsson was the leading player of Iceland during the entire tournament. This time he also was the key player of his team collecting 17 points and wonderful 16 rebounds for 33 minutes. Bjorn Kristjansson helped the winning team with 11 points. Ferdinand Saukel was better than the others in Austria adding 14 points and 10 boards. Filip Kramer stopped on 12 points.


U16 Iceland - U16 Austria 65-48
(15-17, 19-13, 15-10, 16-8)

Iceland: Haukur Palsson 17 (16 rebs), Bjorn Kristjansson 11
Austria: Ferdinand Saukel 14 (10 rebs), Filip Kramer 12

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  BELARUS   


U16 EC, division B: Slovenia fifth, Belarus sixth in Sarajevo - by Eurobasket News
U16 Belarus - U16 Slovenia 56-84

Slovenia gave a real basketball lesson to Belarus in the last game in Bosnian capital Sarajevo. Slovenians, which were extremely close to reach the semifinals and a chance to fight for the promotion to division A, ended the championship on not so bad fifth place. They demonstrated pretty good performance and it wouldn't be undeserved if they advanced to the semis.

Slovenians were much motivated from the beginning. They ended first frame 14-19 while later they totally destroyed Byelorussians. Jure Besedic (204-F/C-92) together with Rojc and Span led his team in the second quarter. In just few minutes Slovenians already resolved question about the winner. They made amazing 16-0 run setting the score on big 17-35 with 2 minutes remaining in the first half. Belarus wasn't able to threat for the rest of the game. After 30 minutes Slovenia reached plus 20 while later they extended lead to final 28 points.

Uros Pavlovic (196-F-92) helped his team to reach the fifth place with 14 points and 4 rebounds. Jaka Brodnik followed adding 12 points and 9 boards while Jure Besedic finished the game also with 12 points and one board less than Brodnik. Vitali Liutych (190-G-92) was the best player of Belarus during the entire event and he ended it in style scoring 18 points and grabbing 8 rebounds. Mikita Strukau had 10 points and 5 boards.


U16 Belarus - U16 Slovenia 56-84
(14-19, 8-21, 19-21, 15-23)

Belarus: Vitali Liutych 18 (8 rebs), Mikita Strukau 10 (5 rebs)
Slovenia: Uros Pavlovic 14 (4 rebs), Jaka Brodnik 12 (9 rebs), Jure Besedic 12 (8 rebs)

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  BELGIUM   


U16 EC, division B: Harm Loontiens paces Belgium against Switzerland - by Eurobasket News
U16 Switzerland - U16 Belgium 65-68

Despite it was 65-68 at the end, it was an easy victory for Belgium, which will continue it way to ninth place on U16 European Championship division B in Sarajevo. At the last day of the competition Belgium will meet Estonia, which was better than England 65-46. Thus, Switzerland will meet England trying to reach 11th place.

Harm Loontiens led his team to victory scoring 16 points and grabbing 4 rebounds. Jordan Delva (195-F-92) also shined finishing the game with 13 points and 4 boards. Tandem Stefan Petkovic (182-G-92) - Zoran Zivanovic (200-F-92) was great in Switzerland. Petkovic added pretty good 18 points, 8 rebounds and 5 assists while Zivanovic had 16 points and 6 boards.

Crucial period of the game was third quarter. After totally leveled first half Belgians put into the fifth gear. Actually, during the last few minutes of third period they created 8-o run heading into the last ten minutes with 44-52. Harm Loontiens was the key player in this quick run scoring three lay-ups. Very soon Belgium, extended its lead even more. After jump shot by Harm Loontiens at the middle of last frame Belgium touched plus 10. It was a clear signal that the game is over for Switzerland.


U16 Switzerland - U16 Belgium 65-68
(13-11, 15-17, 16-24, 21-16)

Switzerland: Stefan Petkovic 18 (8 rebs, 5 as), Zoran Zivanovic 16 (6 rebs)
Belgium: Harm Loontiens 16 (4 rebs), Jordan Delva 13 (4 rebs)

Stats Leaders - Division I
D1 Stats Leaders
Points Per Game
1 Emmett, Liege 23.9
2 Freeman, Gent 18.8
3 Lewis, Leuven 17.8
4 Wilson, Pepinster 17.6
5 Miller, Gent 17.2
6 Perkins, Bree 15.6
7 Gray, MH 15.1
8 Gay, ADG 14.9
9 Lojeski, Aalst 14.6
10 Gonzales, Aalst 14.5
Rebounds Per Game
1 Fisher, Bree 10.8
2 Turek, Gent 10.6
3 Cantrell, Aalst 8.6
4 Pelle, Liege 7.4
5 Ebong, MH 7.1
5 Poole, Aalst 7.1
7 Hodge, Bree 6.6
8 Riddick, Char 6.1
9 Oefugbu, Gent 6.0
10 Ovcina, Oost 6.0
Assists Per Game
1 Perkins, Bree 5.8
2 Bosco, Leuven 3.8
3 Conlan, MH 3.8
4 Van Rossom, Oost 3.2
5 Hamilton, Char 3.1
Steals Per Game
1 Perkins, Bree 3.1
2 Sears, ADG 2.6
3 Bosco, Leuven 2.6
Blocks Per Game
1 Fisher, Bree 2.8
2 Riddick, Char 2.2
3 Turek, Gent 1.4


U16 EC, division B: Belgium wins once again, enough for ninth place - by Eurobasket News
U16 Estonia - U16 Belgium 60-68

Belgians registered fourth consecutive victory on U16 European Championship division B. Unfortunately to them it wasn't enough for any better than ninth place, despite Belgians showed pretty good talent and basketball knowledge. It seems they get into the right shape too late for the medal.

Belgium had impressive first frame. After three minutes the score already was 2-13 and later 2-16. Belgians ended this one having comfortable plus 18 but they slowed down after that. Jaan Puidet (185-G-92) and Rannar Raap exploited that chance leading their team which scored 27 points in the next stanza. Belgians couldn't recover from 16-5 run at the beginning of this period making only 10 points in total until the end of it. Fortunately to Belgium, Harm Loontiens and Anthony Goetgeluck were in a game shape. Mostly owing to them Belgium entered into the last ten minutes with 44-49. Very soon Belgians created 11-2 run, what was enough for 8-point win at the end. Belgium totally outrebounded Estonia today having 42 boards matched with just 23 by its rival.

Wim Vandenweyer scored 19 points for the winning team while Anthony Goetgeluck had 16 points and 6 boards. Harm Loontiens helped Belgium in this game adding 10 points and 4 rebounds. Jaan Puidet was the best player in Estonia finishing the game with 21 points and 6 rebounds. Rannar Raap had 14 points and 7 boards while Joonas Vaino stopped on 12 points.


U16 Estonia - U16 Belgium 60-68
(8-26, 27-10, 9-13, 16-19)

Estonia: Jaan Puidet 21 (6 rebs), Rannar Raap 14 (7 rebs), Joonas Vaino 12
Belgium: Wim Vandenweyer 19, Anthony Goetgeluck 16 (6 rebs), Harm Loontiens 10 (4 rebs)

Bree News - by Peter Buyse


Two players who played for Bree in the past will be more than likely play for the team again in D2.
Kevin Reed (190-G-81, college: Maine) (previous season) and Jeff Horner (191-G-83, agency: Octagon, college: Iowa) (2006-2007) are back in Belgium and the final contract are being worked out and Bree hopes to get their signatures in the next days.

Horner played 50 games in the D-League for the Iowa Energy and averaged 11.5 ppg and 6.3 apg.


Ed Norvel is also practising with the team but nothing has been signed between the 2 parties involved.
Norvell played 12 games for Liege during the 2007-2008 season and before that played 4 year for Antwerp.


According to various sources the limit of 1 foreign player per team in D2 could be lifted as of Sept 1st.

We hope to get this confirmed soon.



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  BOSNIA   


U16 EC, division B: Bosnians ends it on seventh place, Finland eighth - by Eurobasket News
U16 Finland - U16 Bosnia and Herzegovina 68-85

The host of U16 European Championship division B Bosnia and Herzegovina celebrated at the last day of it against Finland. Thus seventh place on this event belongs to the hosts. Naturally, eighth position in reserved for Finland.

Finland showed better performance in the first half. The Fines ended opening quarter 24-10 and the next one 18-15. It seemed that Bosnians will suffer another defeat at the front of their fans but that didn't happen. They showed up after the breather with attitude. It resulted with much aggressive defense which forced Finland to change its rhythm. The Fines couldn't adapt on it scoring just 11 points in third period while Bosnia drained 21. Last one totally belonged to Bosnians. They opened it making 17-3 run for 57-71 with 4:22 to go. After that moment it was clear that Bosnia will be seventh ranked team on U16 EC division B.

Djordje Micic was the leading scorer in Bosnia with 14 points. Drina Adis, Marko Miletic and Ranko Ivic helped their team scoring 12 points apiece. Drina also had 7 more rebounds while Miletic had two less. Joel Heinikoski nailed 22 points for Finland. The last one with double digits for the loosing side was Villematti Kopio (173-G-92), who scored 16 points.


U16 Finland - U16 Bosnia and Herzegovina 68-85
(24-20, 18-15, 11-21, 15-29)

Finland: Joel Heinikoski 22, Villematti Kopio 16
Bosnia: Djordje Micic 14, Drina Adis 12 (7 rebs), Marko Miletic 12 (5 rebs), Ranko Ivic 12

U16 EC, division B: Slovenia too much for Bosnia and Herzegovina - by Eurobasket News
U16 Slovenia - U16 Bosnia and Herzegovina 87-73

Slovenians had an easy job in the first game of Classification Round for 5th to 8th place in Sarajevo. They succeeded to beat Bosnia at the front of their fans passing first step to position number five. Last obstacle on that way will be Belarus. Bosnians will try to end this championship with victory. Their last rival will be Finland.

Slovenia done a great job already in the first stanza. Actually this period was the crucial one. After triple by Brodnik, Slovenia ended quick 7-0 run. Adis Drina made it for Bosnia but Slovenians took care for another 7-2 series, 14-4. Jan Span hit a long range stroke at Slovenia's last offense in first quarter reaching impressive plus 17. However, Adis Drina made a jump shot at the buzzer for 26-11 after ten minutes. It seemed that Slovenians played rest of the game as much as they needed for easy victory.

This time Jaka Brodnik was the leading player of the winning team. He scored 15 points and caught 7 boards for 32 minutes. Jan Span also was great with 14 points and 5 rebounds while Jure Besedic had one points less than him. Adis Drina collected 15 points and 9 rebounds for the hosts of U16 EC division B. Dino Begagic scored 13 while Goran Vucic had 12.


U16 Slovenia - U16 Bosnia and Herzegovina 87-73
(26-11, 23-20, 21-22, 17-20)

Slovenia: Jaka Brodnik 15 (7 rebs), Jan Span 14 (5 rebs), Jure Besedic 13
Bosnia: Adis Drina 15 (9 rebs), Dino Begagic 13, Goran Vucic 12

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  BULGARIA   


U16 EC, division B: Germany reaches the final advancing to division A - by Eurobasket News
U16 Germany - U16 Bulgaria 64-61

Germany is the first finalist of U16 European Championship division B in Sarajevo. Except of the chance to fight for the gold medal, Germany also earned a promotion to division A for the next EC. Bulgarians showed pretty good performance in this game but they weren't able to make a final step. They will meet Sweden battling for the Bronze.

Bulgaria had wonderful beginning. After just few minutes Pavlin Ivanov and his teammates created 0-8 and later 2-10. Germans woke up after that moment making impressive 15-4 run for 17-14. Mostly owing to Mathis Monninghoff (192-G-92) and Philipp Neumann, Germany touched plus 7 at the middle of the second frame keeping it until the half time. Same picture on the court was seen after the breather. Germany continued its domination extending lead to 42-34. After lay-up by Stoev in 35th minute, Bulgaria finally succeeded to get closer, 55-53. Kevin Bright (193-F-92) and Mathis Monninghoff immediately answered with mini 4-0 run for 59-53, what was unreachable for Bulgaria until the very end.

Philipp Neumann led Germany to big final collecting 12 points and 10 boards. Mathis Monninghoff also scored 12 points while Kevin Bright has two points less. Bulgaria got 19 points from Pavlin Ivanov. Planimir Dafinov (178-G-92) followed with 12.


U16 Germany - U16 Bulgaria 64-61
(17-14, 18-14, 15-18, 14-15)

Germany: Philipp Neumann 12 (10 rebs), Mathis Monninghoff 12, Kevin Bright 10 (13 rebs)
Bulgaria: Pavlin Ivanov 19, Planimir Dafinov 12

U16 EC, division B: Bulgaria grabs the Bronze in Sarajevo - by Eurobasket News
U16 Bulgaria - U16 Sweden 81-61

Bulgaria had unexpectedly easy job against Sweden in the battle for the Bronze on U16 European Championship division B in Sarajevo. Bulgarians grabbed it mostly owing to magnificent performance by Georgi Sirakov (184-G-92, agency: Interperformances). Sweden ended championship on fourth place but the bad thing for both teams is that they didn't succeed to qualify for division A. They were pretty close to it but at the same time it was a bite which was unreachable for them.

Bulgaria dominated during the entire time. After every quarter its advantage became bigger and bigger. Georgi Sirakov and Pavlin Ivanov led their team to solid 21-14 in the first quarter. Later, Bulgarians set the margin on 10 points keeping it steady until the half time. Third period actually was the crucial one in this game. Bulgarians entered to it making impressive 12-3 run. After triple by Georgi Sirakov in 28th minute it was already known which team will celebrate the Bronze at the end. It was 57-38 for Bulgaria at that time, what was too much for Sweden until the end.

Georgi Sirakov paced the winners to Bronze scoring 28 points for 27 minutes. Pavlin Ivanov also had very important role in his team adding 14 points. Dimitar Dimitrov helped with 11 points. Erik Noram was the best player in Sweden with 13 points and 6 rebounds. Carl Gaddefors stopped on 12 points and 4 boards.


U16 Bulgaria - U16 Sweden 81-61
(21-14, 19-16, 19-10, 22-21)

Bulgaria: Georgi Sirakov 28, Pavlin Ivanov 14, Dimitar Dimitrov 11
Sweden: Erik Norman 13 (6 rebs), Carl Gaddefors 12 (4 rebs)

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  CHILE   


Stats Leaders - DIMAYOR
DIMAYOR 08/09 Stats Leaders
Points Per Game
1 Thomas, Llan 27.3
2 Melton, Llan 25.2
3 Jennings, Ula 20.0
4 Browne, Ula 19.8
5 Davis, Pue 19.6
Rebounds Per Game
1 Lowery, Llan 15.3
2 Browne, Ula 15.1
3 Hubner, Anc 13.0
4 Marlow, Cas 12.6
5 Montas, Uc 10.6
Assists Per Game
1 Navarrete, Llan 5.6
2 Saez, Lic 5.1
3 Gouard, Oso 4.8
4 Holt, Cas 4.8
5 Hernandez, Ucon 4.6
Steals Per Game
1 Navarrete, Llan 4.6
2 Saez, Lic 3.4
3 Morris Cas 3.0
4 Hayden, Esp 2.6
5 Werth, Pue 2.6
Blocks Per Game
1 Bryant, Bos 3.8
2 Browne, Ula 3.3
3 Puckett, Bos 1.8
4 Danzey, Pue 1.7
5 Works, Pue 1.4
3FGP
1 Werth, Pue 46.8
2 Melton, Llan 43.5
3 Espinoza, Lic 42.4
4 Velasquez, Cas 42.2
5 Contreras, Uc 41.3


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  CROATIA   


The Croats finish seventh, Russia U18 is eighth - by Eurobasket News
Croatia U16-Russia U16 83:77

Croatia U16 could be proud of the 7th place at the Termosteps U16 European Championship Men. In their last game of the tournament the team overcame Russia 83:77. Stefan Zadravec (187-G-92) was unstoppable with 30 points and 5 rebounds. Boris Barac (202-F-92) netted 11, while Marko Ramljak (195-F-93) scored 10. Dmitry Kulagin (194-G-92) ended up with 27 points, whilst Victor Pavlenko (194-F-92) and Denis Sidletskiy (186-G-92) added 10 each.
Marko Ramljak opened the game from the arc for Croatia as his team was always in front in the opening quarter. Varnakov closed the first period at 21:19 making 2/2 free throws. The second quarter was successful for the winners that had 40:25 in the middle of it. Zaryazhko reduced the gap for Russia 41:30 sending the teams to the lockers.
In the third period the game was even however Croatia kept the margin. They finished three quarters with 64:53 as Denis Sidletskiy made a jump-shot. Russia was not ready to give up scoring 14 against only three on the other side to enter the last five minutes close behind, 65:61. The Russian squad tied the game at 72:72. With 79:77 Croatia scored 4 consecutive points to seal the last win of the tournament.

Croatia U16: Stefan Zadravec 30+5 rebs, Boris Barac 11, Marko Ramljak 10
Russia U16: Dmitry Kulagin 27, Victor Pavlenko 10, Denis Sidletskiy 10

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  CYPRUS   


U16 EC, division B: Romania better than Cyprus for 19th place in Sarajevo - by Eurobasket News
U16 Cyprus - U16 Romania 57-62

Romania outsmarts Cyprus in the last day of U16 European Championship division B in Sarajevo ending it on 19th place.

Romania took this one mostly owing to Cornel Alexiu and well played second half of the game. First quarter was totally leveled. Both teams had a small lead but nothing more than that, 12-12. During the following ten minutes Cyprus showed much better performance. Cypriots intensified defense stopping Romanians on just 6 points in this quarter. On the other hand Andreas Vlachos and Riginos Kasinopoulos (185-G-92) were on fire and together with their teammates ended this frame 14-6, 26-18 at the half time. At the middle of third frame Cyprus extended lead to 9 points but Cornel Alexiu woke up in Romania helping it to come on 38-33 before the last quarter. In just few minutes Romanians smashed Cyprus making 17-5 run for 43-50 with 5 minutes to go. Andreas Vlachos once again shined for his team tying the score on 57-57 with 30 seconds remaining. Cornel Alexiu immediatelly answered draining 5 consecutive points for the final score 57-62.

Cornel Alexiu scored 21 points in total grabbing 11 rebounds more. Catalin Horga helped Romania with 11 points. Andreas Vlachos collected 22 points and 5 boards for Cyprus while Riginos Kasinopoulos had 15 points and 4 boards. Both teams remained in division B for the next European Championship.


U16 Cyprus - U16 Romania 57-62
(12-12, 14-6, 12-15, 19-29)

Cyprus: Andreas Vlachos 22 (5 rebs), Riginos Kasinopoulos 15 (4 rebs)
Romania: Cornel Alexiu 21 (11 rebs), Catalin Horga 11

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  CZECH REPUBLIC   


Stats Leaders - NBL
NBL Stats Leaders
Points Per Game
1 Rancik, Nym. 18.3
2 Hruby, Usti 17.3
3 Wooten, Liberec 17.3
4 Sarovic, Geofin 16.8
5 Sanders, Pard. 16.2
Rebounds Per Game
1 McMillian, Geofin 7.6
2 Andelija, Praha 7.3
3 Ofoegbu, Ostrava 7.4
4 Walker, Geofin 6.9
5 Tomaszek, Prost. 6.8
Assists Per Game
1 Vrubl, A Plus B 5.7
2 Mitchell, Ostrava 5.4
3 Grier, Decin 3.9
4 Sanders, Pard. 3.8
5 Phillips, Pard. 3.7
Steals Per Game
1 Mitchell, Ostrava 2.6
2 Rancik, Nym. 2.0
3 Sanders, Pard. 2.0
2FGP
1 Bojic, Prost. 67.8
2 Benda, Nym. 67.0
3 Pelikan, Geofin 65.7
3FGP
1 Sokolovsky, Nym. 46.8
2 Lee, Nym. 46.0
3 Votroubek, Prost. 45.2
Free Throws
1 Mujagic, Sadska 90.8
2 Sanders, Prad. 90.4
3 Milos, Decin 87.5


Lithuania U16 wins U16 European Championship! - by Eurobasket News
Lithuania U16-Czech Republic U16 75:33

Lithuania U16 is the winner of Termosteps U16 European Championship Men. The team became the best in the continent proving one more time the superiority against Czech Republic U16. The latter became a die hard for all the teams, but not Lithuania U16. The final, 75:33 brought the Baltic side Gold and a junior glory. Vytenis Cizauskas (188-G-92) led the winners with 22 points. Deividas Pukis (193-G/F-92) netted 13, while Jonas Valanciunas (209-C-92) collected 10 points and 15 rebounds. Jan Svejda (191-G/F-92) ended up with 10 and Milan Ryska (204-C/F-92, agency: PPGroup) scored 7 in defeat.
Lithuania U16 won the battle between two perfect teams in Group E at the Termosteps U16 European Championship Men a few days ago. In the last game of the group the Baltic side overcame Czech Republic U16 76:48. Lithuania proved that the team was the favorite of the group and the top position should belong to them.
They started with the same 9-0 run and increased to 29:2 at the end of the opening quarter. Czech Republic U16 did not match them at ll and it seemed that the latter lost all the power in the semis. Another 20:10 in the second brought the winners 49:12 and many of them started to celebrate at that time. Ulanovas made it plus 40 in the beginning of the third and Jonas Valanciunas scored for 65:24 in the last. Tamosiunas closed the nightmare for Czech Republic U16 as the latter had a great tournament anyway. Lithuania U16 triumphs in Italy and brings Gold back home.


Lithuania U16: Vytenis Cizauskas 22, Deividas Pukis 13, Jonas Valanciunas 10+15 rebs
Czech Republic U16: Jan Svejda 10, Milan Ryska 7

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  DENMARK   


U16 EC, division B: Netherlands 17th, Denmark 18th - by Eurobasket News
U16 Denmark - U16 Netherlands 74-76

Netherlands celebrated against the first neighbor Denmark in the last game of U16 European Championship division B in Sarajevo. It was Netherlands' fourth victory in the row, which was the crucial one for 17th place on this event. After three consecutive wins, Denmark suffered defeat ending competition at one lower place.

Denmark had slightly better first quarter while Netherlands responded in the next one. Danes headed into the second half having 33-32. Nothing has changed in third frame as it was another leveled one. Denmark succeeded to create 54-50 with seven minutes to go. Later, they extended lead to 64-59 and it seemed that Danes are much closer to victory. However, Sam de Haas stepped up for Netherlands after that moment. He scored 9 points in the last three minutes leading 16-7 run for his team. It was 71-75 with just 11 seconds remaining. Denmark made a triple after that but Comvailus made one free throw for the final score 74-76.

This time it was Saam de Haas, who was the key player for Netherlands. He spent 33 minutes on court scoring 21 points and catching 7 rebounds. Joost Vervoort also had important role in his team adding 13 points while Sven Burger had 10. Anders Haas was the leading scorer in Denmark with 16 points. Niels Andreasen had one point less but with 4 assists.


U16 Denmark - U16 Netherlands 74-76
(18-14, 15-18, 15-15, 26-29)

Denmark: Anders Haas 16, Niels Andreasen 15 (4 as)
Netherlands: Sam de Haas 21 (7 rebs), Joost Vervoort 13, Sven Burger 10

*****************************************************
  ESTONIA   


U16 EC, division B: Belgium wins once again, enough for ninth place - by Eurobasket News
U16 Estonia - U16 Belgium 60-68

Belgians registered fourth consecutive victory on U16 European Championship division B. Unfortunately to them it wasn't enough for any better than ninth place, despite Belgians showed pretty good talent and basketball knowledge. It seems they get into the right shape too late for the medal.

Belgium had impressive first frame. After three minutes the score already was 2-13 and later 2-16. Belgians ended this one having comfortable plus 18 but they slowed down after that. Jaan Puidet (185-G-92) and Rannar Raap exploited that chance leading their team which scored 27 points in the next stanza. Belgians couldn't recover from 16-5 run at the beginning of this period making only 10 points in total until the end of it. Fortunately to Belgium, Harm Loontiens and Anthony Goetgeluck were in a game shape. Mostly owing to them Belgium entered into the last ten minutes with 44-49. Very soon Belgians created 11-2 run, what was enough for 8-point win at the end. Belgium totally outrebounded Estonia today having 42 boards matched with just 23 by its rival.

Wim Vandenweyer scored 19 points for the winning team while Anthony Goetgeluck had 16 points and 6 boards. Harm Loontiens helped Belgium in this game adding 10 points and 4 rebounds. Jaan Puidet was the best player in Estonia finishing the game with 21 points and 6 rebounds. Rannar Raap had 14 points and 7 boards while Joonas Vaino stopped on 12 points.


U16 Estonia - U16 Belgium 60-68
(8-26, 27-10, 9-13, 16-19)

Estonia: Jaan Puidet 21 (6 rebs), Rannar Raap 14 (7 rebs), Joonas Vaino 12
Belgium: Wim Vandenweyer 19, Anthony Goetgeluck 16 (6 rebs), Harm Loontiens 10 (4 rebs)

U16 EC, division B: Estonia smashes England in the last frame - by Eurobasket News
U16 Estonia - U16 England 65-46

Estonia demonstrated much better performance than England in the first game of Classification Round for 9th to 12th place. Once again thanks to Rannar Raap, Estonians made an easy victory which allows them to fight against the Belgium for position number nine. England will try to reach 11th place and its opponent will be Switzerland.

England succeeded to register better digits only in third quarter, 14-16. Rannar Raap was in a game mood and he was a real enigma for the British. His penetrations gave a real headache to England's head coach. Estonia ended first ten minutes 12-8 and the next one 17-13. Devon Van Oostrum woke up in third quarter helping his team to come on minus 6 before the last quarter. Rannar Raap was the clutch player of Estonia leading 11-3 run for comfortable 54-40 for his team. England couldn't recover from it for the rest of the time making this job even easier to Estonia.

Rannar Raap recorded double-double, 27 points, 10 rebounds and 6 assists playing almost the entire time. Jaan Puidet (185-G-92) helped the wining side with 10 points and 7 boards. Devon Van Oostrum was the best player in England adding 16 points and 4 assists. Aaron Geramipoor was the last one with double figures having 10 points including 7 rebounds.


U16 Estonia - U16 England 65-46
(12-8, 17-13, 14-16, 22-9)

Estonia: Rannar Raap 27 (10 rebs, 6 as), Jaan Puidet 10 (7 rebs)
England: Devon Van Oostrum 16 (4 as), Aaron Geramipoor 10 (7 rebs)

*****************************************************
  EUROPEAN CHAMPIONSHIPS U16   


Division A. Finals - by Eurobasket News

FINAL

Lithuania U16-Czech Republic U16 75:33

Lithuania U16 is the winner of Termosteps U16 European Championship Men. The team became the best in the continent proving one more time the superiority against Czech Republic U16. The latter became a die hard for all the teams, but not Lithuania U16. The final, 75:33 brought the Baltic side Gold and a junior glory. Vytenis Cizauskas (188-G-92) led the winners with 22 points. Deividas Pukis (193-G/F-92) netted 13, while Jonas Valanciunas (209-C-92) collected 10 points and 15 rebounds. Jan Svejda (191-G/F-92) ended up with 10 and Milan Ryska (204-C/F-92, agency: PPGroup) scored 7 in defeat.
Lithuania U16 won the battle between two perfect teams in Group E at the Termosteps U16 European Championship Men a few days ago. In the last game of the group the Baltic side overcame Czech Republic U16 76:48. Lithuania proved that the team was the favorite of the group and the top position should belong to them.
They started with the same 9-0 run and increased to 29:2 at the end of the opening quarter. Czech Republic U16 did not match them at ll and it seemed that the latter lost all the power in the semis. Another 20:10 in the second brought the winners 49:12 and many of them started to celebrate at that time. Ulanovas made it plus 40 in the beginning of the third and Jonas Valanciunas scored for 65:24 in the last. Tamosiunas closed the nightmare for Czech Republic U16 as the latter had a great tournament anyway. Lithuania U16 triumphs in Italy and brings Gold back home.


Lithuania U16: Vytenis Cizauskas 22, Deividas Pukis 13, Jonas Valanciunas 10+15 rebs
Czech Republic U16: Jan Svejda 10, Milan Ryska 7



Game for the third place

France U16-Turkey U16 65:77

Pescara named Turkey U16 to be the third team at the Termosteps U16 European Championship Men. In the game for the third place Turkey U18 beat France 77:65. Enes Kanter (205-C-92) was again the hero of the game scoring 28 points and grabbing 20 rebounds. Burak Yuksel (203-F-92) nailed 20, while Safak Edge (185-G-92) scored 14. Leo Westermann (196-G-92) top-scored for France with 22 points and Evan Fournier (196-G-92) netted 12.
Turkey flew to 10:2 run in the opening tip of the game, however France did nit let them go too far from them. Pourchot closed the first period at 18:18. Turkey again pushed the tempo in the second period and Burak Yuksel made it 40:27. Right before half time Enes Kanter reached 20 showing he can score from long range as well, as Turkey held a 42:31 difference at the break.
France did not give up and Pourchot brought his team to 43:48 with 6 minutes in the third. France felt the game was within reach, but couldn't find the way to make it work as they entered their last quarter of the competition down 46:54. Burak Yuksel scored for 57:47 in the start of the last period but Evan Fournier reduced to 57:51. Leo Westermann and Diakite cut the deficit to only 2 points but closer France could not come in the end. Turkey U16 became the third team at the Termosteps U16 European Championship Men.

France U16: Leo Westermann 22, Evan Fournier 12
Turkey U16: Enes Kanter 28+20 rebs, Burak Yuksel 20, Safak Edge 14

Game for the 5th place
Spain U16-Serbia U16 56:60

Pescara saw the last win of Serbia U16 against Spain U16 at the Termosteps U16 European Championship Men. Serbia beat the opponent 60:56 for the 5th spot in Italy. Strahinja Mladenovic (198-F-92) paced all the winners with 19 points and 6 rebounds. Djordje Drenovac (197-F-92) collected 17 points and 10 rebounds, while Aleksandar Cvetkovic (180-G-93) and Luka Igrutinovic (194-G-92) added 6 each. Miguel Servera (195-F-92) ended up with 14 points and 8 rebounds and Albert Ventura (190-F-92) had 13.
Serbia and Spain had both a good start and remained close to each other in the beginning. Creus gave Spain 13:8 but then Luka Igrutinovic scored for 16:15 Serbian lead. The latter continued their 13-0 run in the second quarter and stopped at 23:15. Miguel Servera sent the teams to the lockers with 29:26.
Again him tied the game in the third period for 32:32. With 13:9 in the third period Serbia improved to 42:35 after three quarters played. Strahinja Mladenovic made it 47:39 with 5 minutes in the last. Farina carried Italy to 51:47 with less than three minutes to play, but he wasn't done yet. With 81 seconds on the clock he connected a three point play to tie the game at 54:54. Strahinja Mladenovic and Djordje Drenovac scored last 4 points in the campaign as Serbia finished 5th in the tournament.


Spain U16: Miguel Servera 14+8 rebs, Albert Ventura 13
Serbia U16: Strahinja Mladenovic 19+6 rebs, Djordje Drenovac 17+10 rebs, Aleksandar Cvetkovic 6, Luka Igrutinovic 6
Game for the 7th place
Croatia U16-Russia U16 83:77
Croatia U16 could be proud of the 7th place at the Termosteps U16 European Championship Men. In their last game of the tournament the team overcame Russia 83:77. Stefan Zadravec (187-G-92) was unstoppable with 30 points and 5 rebounds. Boris Barac (202-F-92) netted 11, while Marko Ramljak (195-F-93) scored 10. Dmitry Kulagin (194-G-92) ended up with 27 points, whilst Victor Pavlenko (194-F-92) and Denis Sidletskiy (186-G-92) added 10 each.
Marko Ramljak opened the game from the arc for Croatia as his team was always in front in the opening quarter. Varnakov closed the first period at 21:19 making 2/2 free throws. The second quarter was successful for the winners that had 40:25 in the middle of it. Zaryazhko reduced the gap for Russia 41:30 sending the teams to the lockers.
In the third period the game was even however Croatia kept the margin. They finished three quarters with 64:53 as Denis Sidletskiy made a jump-shot. Russia was not ready to give up scoring 14 against only three on the other side to enter the last five minutes close behind, 65:61. The Russian squad tied the game at 72:72. With 79:77 Croatia scored 4 consecutive points to seal the last win of the tournament.

Croatia U16: Stefan Zadravec 30+5 rebs, Boris Barac 11, Marko Ramljak 10
Russia U16: Dmitry Kulagin 27, Victor Pavlenko 10, Denis Sidletskiy 10

Game for the 9th place
Latvia U16- Ukraine U16 68:73
Ukraine U16 finished on the 9th spot at the Termosteps U16 European Championship Men. In their last game of the tournament the team beat Latvia U16 73:68. Vyacheslav Bobrov (201-F-92) led the winners with 22 points and 14 rebounds. Olexandr Mishula (185-G-92) nailed 16, whilst Marchenko added 10. Davis Bertans (200-F-92) top-scored in defeat with 17 points, while Andris Misters (192-G-92) and Edmunds Dukulis (201-F/C-92) posted 10 apiece.
There was no favorite in this game and both squads wanted to finish the campaign truthfully. Latvia won the opening tip 14:6 as Davis Bertans made a jump-shot. Ukraine did not give up and Motorchuk lifted Ukraine to 20:18 after the first. Ukraine played a bit better in the second period and Olexandr Mishula closed the half for 39:34.
Olexandr Mishula scored again for 50:36, the biggest lead of his team in the game. Vyacheslav Bobrov remained Ukraine in front for 56:48 after three quarters. Latvia had the last chance to stay in the game and cut the deficit to 61:63. Ukraine stayed tough and set up the final, 73:68 win for the 9th spot in Italy. Latvia will go home with 10th position but will also remain in Division A for the next year.

Latvia U16: Davis Bertans 17, Andris Misters 10, Edmunds Dukulis 10+10 rebs
Ukraine U16: Vyacheslav Bobrov 22+14 rebs, Olexandr Mishula 16, Marchenko 10

Game for the 11th place
Greece U16- Israel U16 65:67
Israel U16 finished 11th at the Termosteps U16 European Championship Men. In their last game of the tournament the team overcame Greece U16 67:65. It was a tough game and kept the intrigue until the end of it. Tom Slutsky (-92) led the winners with 14 points. Gay Lavie (188-G-92) and Elias-Pour supported him with 10 points each in a winning effort. Linos-Spyridon Chrysikopoulos (203-F-92) top-scored for Greece with 17 points and 13 rebounds, while Panagiotis Papoulias (189-G-92) added 11.
Israel scored first five points in the game but Greece replied with the same run. Tom Slutsky's three made it 17:9 for Israel and Sikalidis reduced to 21:23 at the half. A 9-0 run lifted Israel U16 to 34:22 in the middle of the second. Tagaris was the last to score at the half as the board showed 43:36.
Israel U16 made it plus 15 in the third period but again Greece reduced the margin. The teams entered the last period with 59:50 for Israel. Trailing 57:66 Greek side produced 8-0 run for 65:66. It happened in the end of the game with 7 seconds remaining. Greece fouled and Simchony made the final score from the free throw line.

Greece U16: Linos-Spyridon Chrysikopoulos 17+13 rebs, Panagiotis Papoulias 11, Charalampos Karaiskos (192-G-92) 10
Israel U16: Tom Slutsky 14, Gay Lavie 10, Elias-Pour 10


Division A. Semifinals - by Eurobasket News

Semifinals


Czech Republic U16 - Turkey U16 69:64 (OT)
Czech Republic U16 National Team became the first finalist of the European Championship in Italy. They defeated Turkish counterparts in the real basketball drama today. Jan Svejda (191-G/F-92) knocked down 27 points to lead Czech team to a thrilling win at the end. Turkey managed to erase a 6-point halftime deficit and forced extra period. But Czech Republic came back to life in the overtime and snatched a narrow win at the end. Enes Kanter (205-C-92) had a pivotal performance for Turkey with 25 points and 21 rebounds. Czech Republic will now take on the winner of Lithuania vs. France clash in tomorrows championship game.
Turkey opened the game with 7 unanswered points to jump to an early lead. However Czech Republic closed the frame with a 9:0 rally to earn a 15:11 advantage. The lead changed hands for a couple of times before Kriz and Milan Ryska (204-C/F-92, agency: PPGroup) capped the first half giving Czech team a 32:26 lead. Czech Republic maintained the gap well throughout the third quarter and entered the final stanza up by 5 points. But Turkey were far from being done. Enes Kanter netted 6 points in an 11:2 surge from Turkey that put them in charge 56:54 with 15 seconds left in regulation. However Tomas Vyoral (187-G-92) was fouled and sent the game into overtime converting both free throws. Enes Kanter set Turkey in front with a layup early in the extra period. Svejda, Milan Ryska and Tomas Vyoral though replied crafting a 5-point advantage for Czech Republic. Enes Kanter chipped in 4 points to trim the deficit to a single point with 19 seconds remaining. Svejda and David Hrncir (196-F-92) were perfect from the free throw line and ensured the winning outcome for Czech Republic at the end. Milan Ryska notched 16 points and 11 boards for the winners. Burak Yuksel (203-F-92) dropped 11 points in the loss.

Czech Republic U16: Jan Svejda 27, Milan Ryska 16+11 boards, David Hrncir 7
Turkey U16: Enes Kanter 25+21 boards, Burak Yuksel 11

Lithuania U16 - France U16 73:47
Lithuanian U16 National Team posted their 7th straight win at the European Championship in Italy yesterday. They defeated France to stay unbeaten and secured their birth in the Final of the tournament. Lithuania dominated right from the start and cruised past ambitious France. The Baltic team opened the game with 5 points in a row to show their serious intentions. France however kept it close and trailed by just 2 points after ten minutes of action. The teams exchanged the baskets throughout the second period before Jakstas and Redikas made it 38:30 for Lithuania at halftime. Lithuania finally cleared off late in the third quarter. Cizauskas hit 4 points in a row and Sabonis added a three-pointer for Lithuania to enjoy a 13-point lead with one quarter to go in the game. Pukis added 3 more points to tip off the fourth quarter. Lithuania never looked back further on and easily ensured the winning outcome in this one. Jonas Valanciunas (209-C-92) tallied 14 points and 13 boards for Lithuania. Brencius had 10 points and 11 boards, while Jakstas contributed 9 points for the winners. Westermann answered with 13 points for France. Keita dropped 10 points in the loss. Lithuania overwhelmed their opponents on the glass 49:34 and limited French players to just 26% from the field. Lithuania sank 43% of field goals.

Lithuania U16: Jonas Valanciunas 14+13 boards, Brencius 10+11 boards, Jakstas 9
France U16: Westermann 13, Keita 10

Semifinals for 5th-8th spots
Spain U16 - Croatia U16 62:56
Joan Tomas (200-F-92) came up with 18 points and 11 boards and Spanish U16 National Team celebrated the win in the last but one day of the European Championship in Italy. They defeated Croatian opponents to set up the clash for the 5th spot against the winner of Russia vs. Serbia encounter. Croatia used 6 straight points from Boris Barac (202-F-92) to build a 12:7 lead midway through the first period. However Miguel Servera (195-F-92) and Joan Tomas clipped the distance to 2 points at the end of the first frame. Spain went on a 12:4 rally early in the second quarter and gained a 25:19 advantage. Spaniards stayed in front and rolled to a 30:26 advantage at halftime. Spain continued to dominate in the third stanza and a three-pointer from Miguel Servera opened a double-digit lead late in the quarter. Stefan Zadravec (187-G-92) scored the first 10 Croatian points of the fourth term as the margin was cut to just 2 points. But a confident display from Spain in the dying minutes gave not a single chance for their opponents to scrape in front. Carles Marzo (197-G-92) and Albert Ventura (190-F-92) were deadly from the stripe in the crunch time and secured the victory at the end. Miguel Servera provided 16 points for Spain. Alejandro Igual (189-G-92), Albert Ventura and Carles Marzo added 6 points apiece for the winning side. Stefan Zadravec finished with 18 points for Croatia. Boris Barac nailed 13 points in defeat. Spain outrebounded Croatia 46:35 which proved decisive in the clash.

Spain U16: Joan Tomas 18+11 boards, Miguel Servera 16
Croatia U16: Stefan Zadravec 18, Boris Barac 13


Serbia U16 - Russia U16 63:54
The reigning U16 European champions Serbia will play for the 5th spot at the European Championship in Italy. Serbia failed to advance to the semis but would try to take the best from the rest. They defeated Russia today to set up the clash against Spain for the fifth place tomorrow. Serbia had to overcome a slow start against Russia to score a solid win at the end. Russia will play for the 7th spot versus Croatia on Sunday. Alexander Varnakov (184-G-92) and Dmitry Kulagin (194-G-92) scored 4 straight points late in the first period and Russia grabbed an 18:15 advantage ten minutes into the game. Russia used a 6:0 run midway through the second period to stretch the margin. However Aleksandar Cvetkovic (180-G-93) drained a three-pointer to fuel a 10:2 rally as Serbia built a 35:32 advantage at halftime. Serbia continued their rally in the third period scoring 12 unanswered points and establishing a 47:32 lead. Serbia looked confident and rock solid at the moment and never allowed Russia to threaten the gap in the fourth stanza. Luka Igrutinovic (194-G-92) secured 15 points for Serbia. Djordje Drenovac (197-F-92) contributed 14 points and 10 boards, while Aleksandar Radenkovic (185-G-92) had 11 points for the winners. Dmitry Kulagin replied with 17 points for Russia. Alexander Varnakov nailed 11 in defeat. Serbia outrebounded Russia 40:34 and forced their opponents to 20 turnovers. Both teams shot poorly from the field with Serbia sinking 34%, while Russia converting 35%.

Serbia U16: Luka Igrutinovic 15, Djordje Drenovac 14+10 boards, Aleksandar Radenkovic 11
Russia U16: Dmitry Kulagin 17, Alexander Varnakov 11

Semifinals for 9th-12th spots
Ukraine U16 - Israel U16 78:63
Ukrainian U16 National team snapped their 5-game losing skid at the European Championship in Italy today. They defeated Israel in the classification game for the 9th-12th places and would take on Latvia for the 9th spot tomorrow. Israel will face Greece in the final game of the tournament on Sunday. Vyacheslav Bobrov (201-F-92) tallied a monster double-double of 21 points and 18 boards to pace Ukraine to the win. Israel started the game more aggressively and jumped to an early 6:1 lead. Ukraine cut the deficit and later surged ahead but Israel still won the first period 21:16. Ukraine answered with an 11:0 run to open the second period. Oleksandr Prokopenko (192-F-92) and Vyacheslav Bobrov kept Ukraine in front throughout the period but Israel used an 8:2 surge at the end of the half to regain the advantage at 40:38. Ukraine rushed ahead on all cylinders at the beginning of the third frame scoring 7 points in a row. Ukraine were back in the driving seat and maintained the lead throughout the quarter. They headed into the final stanza up by 4 points. Bar Reuven (205-F-92) tipped off the fourth quarter with a three-pointer as Israel trimmed the distance to minimum however Ukraine responded with 10 consecutive points to establish a 66:55 lead. Israel failed to recover and had to surrender at the end. Oleksandr Prokopenko netted 18 points for Ukraine. Kostyantyn Anikiyenko (214-C-92) added 14 points and 15 rebounds for the winners. Tom Slutsky (-92) replied with 15 points for Israel. Gay Lavie (188-G-92) had 14 points in defeat.

Ukraine U16: Vyacheslav Bobrov 21+18 boards, Oleksandr Prokopenko 18, Kostyantyn Anikiyenko 14+15 boards
Israel U16: Tom Slutsky 15, Gay Lavie 14


Latvia U16 - Greece U16 82:80
Latvian U16 National Team pulled away with a hard-fought narrow victory over Greece in the semifinal round for the 9th-12th spots at the European Championship in Italy today. The teams were tied at 80 with 18 seconds remaining in the game. However Latvia used their last possession the most effectively setting up a go-ahead jumper for Andris Misters (192-G-92). Linos-Spyridon Chrysikopoulos (203-F-92) had a chance to save the game for Greece but his desperate three-pointer rimmed out. Andris Misters finished the game with 25 points to propel Latvia to the win. His 12 points in the opening stanza did not allow Latvia to surge ahead as they trailed 21:22 after ten minutes of action. However Latvian team opened the second period with 5 straight points and gained a 26:22 lead. The lead then changed hands for several times before Latvia secured a 40:38 lead at the interval. Linos-Spyridon Chrysikopoulos and Antonakis retained the advantage for Hellenes and kept them in charge throughout the third period. Charalampos Karaiskos (192-G-92) and Terpos gave Greek team a 9-point cushion late in the frame. Latvia went on a 13:0 run early in the fourth term to grab a 70:65 advantage. Greece tied the score twice before Panagiotis Papoulias (189-G-92) stepped in front 78:76 with over 2 minutes left. Edmunds Dukulis (201-F/C-92) converted a three-point play to carry Latvia ahead, while Sandis Bets (189-G-92) added a free throw for an 80:78 Latvian lead with 50 seconds to go. Panagiotis Papoulias drew things level with a jumper but then it was Andris Misters hightime as he secured the win for Latvia. Sandis Bets nailed 15 points, while Edmunds Dukulis provided 13 points and 14 boards for the winners. Panagiotis Papoulias and Linos-Spyridon Chrysikopoulos answered with 17 points apiece for Greece. Charalampos Karaiskos had 11 in defeat. Latvia will now face Ukraine for the 9th spot. Greece will wrap up their European Championship campaign against Israel.

Latvia U16: Andris Misters 25, Sandis Bets 15, Edmunds Dukulis 13+14 boards
Greece U16: Panagiotis Papoulias 17, Linos-Spyridon Chrysikopoulos 17


*****************************************************
  EUROPEAN CHAMPIONSHIPS U18   


Stats Leaders Div. A
Div. A Stats Leaders
Points Per Game
1 Zahariev, BUL 21.2
2 Delas, CRO 20.8
3 Kanter, TUR 20.0
4 Sepa, SRB 18.5
5 Prostran, CRO 17.8
Rebounds Per Game
1 Slezas, LTU 12.7
2 Kanter, TUR 11.7
3 Hounhanou, BEL 10.8
4 Motiejunas, LTU 10.5
5 Sarikopoulos, GRE 10.0
Assists Per Game
1 Albicy, FRA 5.5
2 Prostran, CRO 4.7
3 Avramov, BUL 4.4
4 Serron, BEL 3.4
5 Krumins, LAT 3.3


*****************************************************
  FINLAND   


U16 EC, division B: Bosnians ends it on seventh place, Finland eighth - by Eurobasket News
U16 Finland - U16 Bosnia and Herzegovina 68-85

The host of U16 European Championship division B Bosnia and Herzegovina celebrated at the last day of it against Finland. Thus seventh place on this event belongs to the hosts. Naturally, eighth position in reserved for Finland.

Finland showed better performance in the first half. The Fines ended opening quarter 24-10 and the next one 18-15. It seemed that Bosnians will suffer another defeat at the front of their fans but that didn't happen. They showed up after the breather with attitude. It resulted with much aggressive defense which forced Finland to change its rhythm. The Fines couldn't adapt on it scoring just 11 points in third period while Bosnia drained 21. Last one totally belonged to Bosnians. They opened it making 17-3 run for 57-71 with 4:22 to go. After that moment it was clear that Bosnia will be seventh ranked team on U16 EC division B.

Djordje Micic was the leading scorer in Bosnia with 14 points. Drina Adis, Marko Miletic and Ranko Ivic helped their team scoring 12 points apiece. Drina also had 7 more rebounds while Miletic had two less. Joel Heinikoski nailed 22 points for Finland. The last one with double digits for the loosing side was Villematti Kopio (173-G-92), who scored 16 points.


U16 Finland - U16 Bosnia and Herzegovina 68-85
(24-20, 18-15, 11-21, 15-29)

Finland: Joel Heinikoski 22, Villematti Kopio 16
Bosnia: Djordje Micic 14, Drina Adis 12 (7 rebs), Marko Miletic 12 (5 rebs), Ranko Ivic 12

KORISLIIGA: Calvin Cage wants to play in Finland - by Rauno Hurmalainen
YMCA Lappeenranta has signed team's first American player. G Calvin Cage (183-G-84, agency: Passing Lane) comes from Buffalo U., where he played and studied four years (2002-2006). As a Sr Cage averaged 18,5 ppg and was chosen All-MAC 2nd Team -06. Cage is a great scorer and extremely quick. He has played already in several countries (Cyprus, Iran, Saudi Arabia, Lebanon, Philippines). YMCA LPR new Head Coach Jarmo Laitinen is still after two American Forwards.

*****************************************************
  FRANCE   


Lithuania topple France to enter title game in Italy - by Eurobasket News
Lithuania U16 - France U16 73:47

Lithuanian U16 National Team posted their 7th straight win at the European Championship in Italy yesterday. They defeated France to stay unbeaten and secured their birth in the Final of the tournament. Lithuania dominated right from the start and cruised past ambitious France. The Baltic team opened the game with 5 points in a row to show their serious intentions. France however kept it close and trailed by just 2 points after ten minutes of action. The teams exchanged the baskets throughout the second period before Jakstas and Redikas made it 38:30 for Lithuania at halftime. Lithuania finally cleared off late in the third quarter. Cizauskas hit 4 points in a row and Sabonis added a three-pointer for Lithuania to enjoy a 13-point lead with one quarter to go in the game. Pukis added 3 more points to tip off the fourth quarter. Lithuania never looked back further on and easily ensured the winning outcome in this one. Valanciunas tallied 14 points and 13 boards for Lithuania. Brencius had 10 points and 11 boards, while Jakstas contributed 9 points for the winners. Westermann answered with 13 points for France. Keita dropped 10 points in the loss. Lithuania overwhelmed their opponents on the glass 49:34 and limited French players to just 26% from the field. Lithuania sank 43% of field goals.

Lithuania U16: Valanciunas 14+13 boards, Brencius 10+11 boards, Jakstas 9
France U16: Westermann 13, Keita 10

Turkey U16 tastes Bronze, France U16 finishes 4th - by Eurobasket News
France U16-Turkey U16 65:77

Pescara named Turkey U16 to be the third team at the Termosteps U16 European Championship Men. In the game for the third place Turkey U18 beat France 77:65. Enes Kanter (205-C-92) was again the hero of the game scoring 28 points and grabbing 20 rebounds. Burak Yuksel (203-F-92) nailed 20, while Safak Edge (185-G-92) scored 14. Leo Westermann (196-G-92) top-scored for France with 22 points and Evan Fournier (196-G-92) netted 12.
Turkey flew to 10:2 run in the opening tip of the game, however France did nit let them go too far from them. Pourchot closed the first period at 18:18. Turkey again pushed the tempo in the second period and Burak Yuksel made it 40:27. Right before half time Enes Kanter reached 20 showing he can score from long range as well, as Turkey held a 42:31 difference at the break.
France did not give up and Pourchot brought his team to 43:48 with 6 minutes in the third. France felt the game was within reach, but couldn't find the way to make it work as they entered their last quarter of the competition down 46:54. Burak Yuksel scored for 57:47 in the start of the last period but Evan Fournier reduced to 57:51. Leo Westermann and Diakite cut the deficit to only 2 points but closer France could not come in the end. Turkey U16 became the third team at the Termosteps U16 European Championship Men.

France U16: Leo Westermann 22, Evan Fournier 12
Turkey U16: Enes Kanter 28+20 rebs, Burak Yuksel 20, Safak Edge 14

*****************************************************
  FYR MACEDONIA   


U16 EC, division B: Thriller for Austria against F.Y.R. of Macedonia - by Eurobasket News
U16 F.Y.R. of Macedonia - U16 Austria 68-71

Austria succeeded to beat F.Y.R. of Macedonia in very exciting game. It wouldn't be undeserved if Macedonians took it as they played pretty good 30 minutes. After this tight victory Austria will have a chance to fight for 13th place on U16 European Championship division B in Sarajevo. Its opponent, which for sure has the same ambitions, will be Iceland. Macedonia will take on Portugal for 15th place.

After totally leveled first half of the game (42-42), Macedonians started to play much better. They intensified defense forcing Austria to make many mistakes. Vladimir Gotik and Nikola Gajdadjiev were on fire and together with their teammates ended third frame scoring solid 18 points. On the other side Austrians missed many shots, especially from behind the arc, which resulted with only 9 points. Totally different picture was seen on the court in the last frame. Everything what Macedonia done in third period, Austria done much better in this one. Game is decided in the last 13 seconds. On 66-70 for Austria Vladimir Gotik made a jump shot after Gavrilovic committed personal foul. Ngoy made first but missed second free throw. Nikola Gajdadjiev attempted to score a triple, which would lead his team to over time, but unfortunately to Macedonians he missed.

Ferdinand Saukel (196-F-92) destroyed Macedonia in this game nailing 26 points and grabbing 12 boards. Filip Kramer also shined for the winning team with 18 points and 6 rebounds. Vladimir Gotik was the best in Macedonia with 23 points and 4 rebounds. Nikola Gajdadjiev finished the game with double-double, 20 points, 11 rebounds and 4 assists.


U16 F.Y.R. of Macedonia - U16 Austria 68-71
(17-18, 25-24, 18-9, 8-20)

Macedonia: Vladimir Gotik 23 (4 rebs), Nikola Gajdadjiev 20 (11 rebs, 4 as)
Austria: Ferdinand Saukel 26 (12 rebs), Filip Kramer 18 (6 rebs)

Joradanco Davitkov on Iceland, two players on try-out in Amak SP Ohrid - by Eurobasket News
Ex head coach of Macedonian National Team Jordanco Davitkov officially became the head coach of Snaefell from Iceland. Davitkov started last season in Strumica 2005 but he left the team during the year. Before Strumica, he was a head coach of Fersped Rabotnicki three years winning the title in domestic championship in 2005. At the same season his team celebrated in National Cup while a year later they were regular season champions. Davitkov has another National Cup in his pocket. In 2001 he was a head coach of Nikol Fert from Gostivar, with whom he won the first trophy in coaching career. Davitkov led Macedonian National Team in 2001 and later from 2005 to 2007. As a player Davitkov spent many years in Godel Rabotnicki and two seasons in Nikol Fert.

Amak SP from Ohrid will test Vladimir Mijovic (207-F-84) and Bozo Barac (208-F/C-79, agency: Interperformances).
Vladimir Mijovic played last two seasons for Serbian team Sloga Kraljevo. In the last one he registered pretty good digits in A1 league. For 20 games he averaged 15.4 ppg, 5.6 rpg, 1.1 apg and 1 spg. Before Sloga, Mijovic played for Banjalucka Pivara and Atlas. He grew up in Umka and later in young selections of Partizan Belgrade. Bozo Barac started last season in Croatian team Dubrava Zagreb while in February he moved to Bulgarian Spartak Pleven. For 24 games in Bugarian A1 he added 12.5 ppg, 4.5 rpg and 1.3 apg. Barac is experienced big guy who changed many teams in the past. Some of those are Benston Zagreb, Dona Dubrava Zagreb, Fabriano Basket, Darussafaka Istanbul and Cedevita Zagreb.

Fersped Rabotnicki faces champions at the opening - by Todor Chalovski
Macedonian 14 times champions Fersped Rabotnicki, will face current champions and cup winners Feni Industri in the most interesting game from Round 1 of 2008/2009 season. This was the result of the draw, held in Skopje today.

This is the full programme of Round one:

FERSPED RABOTNICKI - FENI INDUSTRI,
MZT FON UNIVERZITET SKOPJE - VARDAR 2000,
TORUS - AMAK SP,
KARPOS SOKOLI 2000 - STRUMICA 2005,
POP SPORT VSA - SWISSLION PELISTER.

Round 1 starts at October 4th. All games from this round will be played in Skopje.

Macedonia wins Toni Alexe Memorial in Romania - by Eurobasket News
Macedonian National Team celebrated victory at the International Basketball tournament Toni Alexe Memorial in Romania. Macedonia played three games and were undefeated to claim the title. Macedonia is getting fir prior the start of the EuroBasket Qualification. They got into Group B together with Latvia, Estonia and Portugal. Macedonia will open their campaign against Latvia away from home on September 3.
Macedonia showed they are in good form at the moment securing three consecutive wins in Romania. The team began the event with a comfortable win over Austria 91:66. They dominated throughout the action winning all four quarters and registering a deserved victory at the end. Pero Antic (210-F-82, agency: Interperformances) bruised Austria with 23 points. Jeremiah Massey (202-F-82, college: Kansas St.) contributed 18 points in the win.
Next day Macedonia took on Serbian Lions Vrsac and also succeeded. The Serbian outfit was beaten 87:73 for the second straight win. Finally Macedonia took on the hosts. A tight battle saw the visitors grab a 23:22 lead after ten minutes of action. Macedonia kept in front in the second stanza and piled up a 40:37 advantage at the interval. Romania stayed close but could not surge ahead in the second half. Macedonia worked hard and ensured a tough win to earn the title. Todor Gecevski (209-C-77, agency: Interperformances) led all scorers with 24 points. Jeremiah Massey added 21 points for the winners.

U16 EC, division B: Macedonians outsmarts Portugal for 15th place - by Eurobasket News
U16 Portugal - U16 F.Y.R. of Macedonia 76-81

After four defeats, F.Y.R. of Macedonia finally succeeded to grab win on U16 European Championship division B. It was the last day of the competition, which Macedonia ended on 15th place. Because of this defeat Portugal is a 16th ranked team in Sarajevo.

It was interesting game as the winner was decided in the last quarter. Portugal was better team at the beginning ending first frame 19-15. Macedonia answered in the next one but it was enough just for minus 2, 42-40. Nikola Gajdadjiev shined for Macedonia in third frame. He, together with Darko Gjorgjievski and Gorjan Markovski, played pretty good ten minutes leading their team to the last quarter with plus 3. Portuguese showed they are dangerous opponent in 35th minute, 69-68. Once again Nikola Gajdadjiev led his team, which this time created crucial 13-5 run.

Darko Gjorgjievski was on fire in this game leading his team to victory with 23 points and 7 rebounds. Nikola Gajadjiev also great adding 18 points and 9 rebounds while Gorjan Markovski followed him with 15 points and 6 boards. Portugal's best player was Bruno Cunha, who collected 19 points and 10 rebounds. Jonah Callenbach had one point less.


U16 Portugal - U16 F.Y.R. of Macedonia 76-81
(19-15, 23-25, 18-23, 16-18)

Portugal: Bruno Cunha 19 (10 rebs), Jonah Callenbach 18
Macedonia: Darko Gjorgjievski 23 (7 rebs), Nikola Gajdadjiev 18 (9 rebs), Gorjan Markovski 15 (6 rebs)

*****************************************************
  GEORGIA   


Poland preserve spot in Division A - by Eurobasket News
Poland U16 Georgia U16 86:57

Polish U16 National Team celebrated an important victory over Georgia to secure their Division A spot for the next year. They improved to 2-1 record in the classification round Group G and occupied the saving second spot. Georgia in the meantime lost all three of their classification encounters and got relegated to Division B. Kwiatkowski and Stalicki knocked down 15 points apiece to pace Poland. Kakauridze answered with 13 points for Georgia. Georgia tried to stay in the race in the starting frame as they trailed by just three points heading into the second quarter 14:17. However Poland opened the second period with a 7:0 run to build a 10-point lead. Georgia used 5 points from Eliadze to ignite a rally that trimmed the deficit to just a single point 26:27 with under 3 minutes to go in the frame. Lesczynski however scored 4 points late in the quarter and Poland accumulated a 35:29 advantage at halftime. The teams traded baskets throughout the third stanza with Poland maintaining the margin. Polish players made the decisive run early in the fourth term. They chipped in 9 unanswered points and established a 16-point advantage. Kwiatkowski soon stretched it to 19 and Poland never looked back again. Lesczynski notched 14 points for the winners. Bokolishvili and Eliadze replied with 10 points apiece for Georgia.

Poland U16: Kwiatkowski 15, Stalicki 15, Lesczynski 14
Georgia U16: Kakauridze 13, Bokolishvili 10, Eliadze 10


*****************************************************
  GERMANY   


Kirchheim inks Tomasevic - by Manuel Schust
VfL Kirchheim Knights signed 30-year old Guard Radivoj Tomasevic (180-G-78) for the upcoming season. The serbian-german spent almost his entire career with different teams in germany's second division.
He is known for his quickness and his versatile offense that made him the topscorer of the 2. Bundesliga in the 2002-2003 campaign, averaging 24.1 points for Tuebingen. In his second season with the Swabians they promoted to BBL and Radivoj Tomasevic was one of the main factors to achieve that, contributing 18.8 points per game.
In 2004/2005 the left-handed Tomasevic played his only season in Germany's first division, producing 9.0 points, 1.3 rebounds and 1.2 assists. The next season he returned to the second division and played for MTV Stuttgart. After one season in Switzerland with Geneve Devils, 'Radi' Tomasevic joined ProB team USC Freiburg last season and had a solid season.

U16 EC, division B: Germany reaches the final advancing to division A - by Eurobasket News
U16 Germany - U16 Bulgaria 64-61

Germany is the first finalist of U16 European Championship division B in Sarajevo. Except of the chance to fight for the gold medal, Germany also earned a promotion to division A for the next EC. Bulgarians showed pretty good performance in this game but they weren't able to make a final step. They will meet Sweden battling for the Bronze.

Bulgaria had wonderful beginning. After just few minutes Pavlin Ivanov and his teammates created 0-8 and later 2-10. Germans woke up after that moment making impressive 15-4 run for 17-14. Mostly owing to Mathis Monninghoff (192-G-92) and Philipp Neumann, Germany touched plus 7 at the middle of the second frame keeping it until the half time. Same picture on the court was seen after the breather. Germany continued its domination extending lead to 42-34. After lay-up by Stoev in 35th minute, Bulgaria finally succeeded to get closer, 55-53. Kevin Bright (193-F-92) and Mathis Monninghoff immediately answered with mini 4-0 run for 59-53, what was unreachable for Bulgaria until the very end.

Philipp Neumann led Germany to big final collecting 12 points and 10 boards. Mathis Monninghoff also scored 12 points while Kevin Bright has two points less. Bulgaria got 19 points from Pavlin Ivanov. Planimir Dafinov (178-G-92) followed with 12.


U16 Germany - U16 Bulgaria 64-61
(17-14, 18-14, 15-18, 14-15)

Germany: Philipp Neumann 12 (10 rebs), Mathis Monninghoff 12, Kevin Bright 10 (13 rebs)
Bulgaria: Pavlin Ivanov 19, Planimir Dafinov 12

Wolfenbuettel hires Forward - by Moritz Korff

B.J. Anthony (198-F-88) has agreed to terms with Herzoege Wolfenbuettel (2. Bundesliga Pro B) and will play for the team of coach Mahmut Ataman in the 2008-09 season. The 20-year-old Forward is a member of New Zealand's Junior National Team and played most recently for Harbour Heat in the NBL. He appeared in 17 games for the Heat during the 2008 campaign with averages of 5.7 points and 2.0 rebounds. Anthony holds a British passport and thus is eligible to play in the Pro B as a Bosman A-athlete.

Anthony was not yet in uniform, when his new club held off UBC Hannover 82:59 in an exhibition game on Saturday. Frank Theis (200-C-82) topscored for Wolfenbuettel with 20 points, the new import player Connor Whitman (186-G, college: Occidental) nailed 4 threes in his debut and finished his first contest in Germany with 19 points.



Phoenix Hagen makes roster complete, signs Quentin Pryor - by Moritz Korff
Phoenix Hagen (2. Bundesliga Pro A) has completed its last summer-signing and made an agreement with Quentin Pryor (193-G/F-83, agency: Scorers 1st Sportmanagement, college: Morehead St.). The 24-year-old graduate of Morehead State University (NCAA1) is able to play three different positions on the court. Pryor spent this past season at FC Schalke 04. He had 29 appearances for the Royal Blues in Pro A-action and averaged 15.1 points, 4.3 rebounds, 2.2 assists and 2.4 steals per contest.

Robinson and King join Frankfurt Skyliners - by Moritz Korff
Shawan Robinson (187-G-83, college: Clemson) and Anthony King (206-F/C, agency: Interperformances, college: Miami, FL) have joined the Deutsche Bank Skyliners (1. Bundesliga) for tryouts. Both players will be tested until the end of this month.
Robinson played for the Giessen 46ers in this past season and averaged 3.1 points through 29 Bundesliga-games. King finished his college career in spring. He spent four years at the University of Miami, Florida (NCAA1). As a senior he produced 7.1 points, 7.0 rebounds, 1.4 blocks and 1.3 assists per contest.

U16 EC, division B: Gold medal belongs to Germany - by Eurobasket News
U16 Germany - U16 Montenegro 76-69

Germany captured the gold medal on U16 European Championship division B in Sarajevo. The Germans dominated during the entire event ending it undefeated. Silver medal belongs to Montenegro but it is important to be mentioned that both teams earned promotion to division A, what was their main goal in Sarajevo.

Germany had furious first quarter. After five minutes and a lay-up by Jarelle Reischel (194-F-92), Germany made 17-8. Two minutes later the Germans stretched advantage to huge 17 points. Mijanovic netted 3-pointer in the last offense while Fulle made a lay-up for 27-11 after first quarter. Montenegrins were better during the next 10 minutes while they showed even more in third frame. With 57 seconds to go Vulevic tied the score on 52-52 after what Mladen Novakovic (-92) drained a triple for 52-55 for Montenegro. However, third quarter ended 54-55 because of successful jump shot by Heckman. Question about the new champion is resolved in the last two minutes. On 69-69 Philipp Neumann and Jarelle Reischel netted 6 points in the row while Montenegro missed three times leaving the Gold to Germany.

Mathis Monninghoff (192-G-92) was the best scorer for the new division B champion netting 19 points. Kevin Bright (193-F-92) once again demonstrated wonderful performance adding 18 points and 10 rebounds. Philipp Neumann finished the game with 14 points and 11 boards while Jarelle Reischel also had 14 points but with 9 rebounds. Mladen Novakovic again shined in Montenegro having 17 points and 5 rebounds. Stefan Djordan netted one point less.


U16 Germany - U16 Montenegro 76-69
(27-11, 16-20, 11-24, 22-14)

Germany: Mathis Monninghoff 19, Kevin Bright 18 (10 rebs), Philipp Neumann 14 (11 rebs), Jarelle Reischel 14 (9 rebs)
Montenegro: Mladen Novakovic 17 (5 rebs), Stefan Djordan 16y

A2 National Team edges Israel - by Moritz Korff
The German A2-National Team overcame Israel in an exhibition game on Sunday and grabbed a 80:76-home win in Crailsheim. Both teams will return to action for a rematch on Monday.
Germany was led by Dirk Maedrich (211-C-83, agency: Court Side) who scored 17 points. Nikita Khartchenkov (201-F-87, agency: Scorers 1st Sportmanagement) followed with 16, Heiko Schaffartzik (182-G-84) tallied 14 points and Guido Gruenheid (209-F/C-82, agency: Court Side) had 12.

Germany (points): Maedrich (17), Khartchenkov (16), Schaffartzik (14), Gruenheid (12), Raffington (10), Staiger (5), Simon (4), Benzing (2), Greene, Mangold, Schwartz.

Q&A with Seth Engelken - by Moritz Korff
Prior to this past season nobody had expected RSV Eintracht Stahnsdorf to spend such a succesful year in the 2. Bundesliga Pro B, the first after moving up from Regionalliga North. The team finished the season in 10th place, having beaten top-teams like Crailsheim, Freiburg or Muenchen. Just like his team did Seth Engelken (203-F-85, college: Texas A&M - C.C.) spent his first year, not only in Pro B, but also in European basketball at all. And the 23-year-old from St. Jospeh, Mo. did a great job. He was the most effective player on the Stahnsdorf squad (according Efficiency Rating), was second in both scoring (tallied 15 points or more 18 times; season-high: 36 points against Bielefeld) and rebounding (season-high: 14 boards against Kirchheim) on the team and 5th in steals per game (4 or more steals 8 times; season-high: 5 steals against Wolfenbuettel) in the entire league.
Eurobasket Germany caught up with Engelken, who is still available for the upcoming season, and talked with him about past, presence and future.

During your first season in Germany you averaged 17.2 points, 6.5 rebounds, 2.8 assists and 2.6 steals. How do you feel like you played?
I think I played pretty well. I came in not knowing what to expect since it was my first season but I think I adjust quickly to the style of play. That first season really gave me an idea of what I needed to improve this summer so it was a good gauge for me going into this summer.

How come a player who was among the best in his league in several statistics during 2007-08 is still available for this upcoming season?
To be honest I am not sure and I am really suprised by that. It could be a combination of things but I think the main thing could be that my name wasn't in the right place at the right time. But I am not going to get frustrated about it, I just use it as motivation to keep working and stay ready.

In the Texas A&M CC Media Book it says, the word that best describes you best is complex. Does it describe you as a person or as a basketball player?
Hmmmmm... I think that it describes me as a person but also as a player. As a person, I like a wide varity things and a lot of different tastes than people would expect. As a player I guess you could say I am complex because I can bring a lot of different things to the game. If the game calls for me to lock down on defense and get stops I can do that. But if we need scoring and playmaking, I can do that as well.

Which adjustments do you had to make to do the switch from college basketball to the European game?
I think the main thing was playing the pick and roll. In college we ran alot of sets but most of our scoring came in transition. In my first year in Germany I was playing off the pick and roll and making decision with the ball. I love to play that way and it fit my style great.

Which has been your most memorable moment in the 2007-08 season?
I actually have a few memorable moments from last season. Beating the top teams in our league was always a memorable moment but I also have great memories of working out and practicing with my teammates.

What have you been doing since this past season has come to an end?
After the season was over I went on a short trip through Italy, Spain, Austria, France, and the UK with one of my brothers. Then I must came home and got back to work in the gym. I really feel like I had a great summer in the gym and in the weight room. I think I made the improvements I needed to make and now I am just waiting for the right opportunity.

Teams and coaches who are interested in him can contact Seth Engelken via e-mail: siengelken@yahoo.com

Tuebingen signs Power Forward - by Moritz Korff
Kenny Williams (203-F-85, college: Mississippi) has arrived to Germany today. The 23-year-old Power Forward, a lefthander, had put pen to paper on a one-year contract with the Walter Tigers Tuebingen (1. Bundesliga) on Saturday. Williams started his university career at St. Petersburg Community College and transfered to the University of Mississippi (NCAA1) in 2006. He played 35 games for the Ole Miss Rebels in 2007-08 and avaraged 8.5 points as well as 6.6 rebounds per outing. To make their roster complete the Tiger-officials are looking for one more Power Forward.

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


Israel U16 is 11th, Greece U16 drops to 12th - by Eurobasket News
Greece U16- Israel U16 65:67

Israel U16 finished 11th at the Termosteps U16 European Championship Men. In their last game of the tournament the team overcame Greece U16 67:65. It was a tough game and kept the intrigue until the end of it. Tom Slutsky (-92) led the winners with 14 points. Gay Lavie (188-G-92) and Elias-Pour supported him with 10 points each in a winning effort. Linos-Spyridon Chrysikopoulos (203-F-92) top-scored for Greece with 17 points and 13 rebounds, while Panagiotis Papoulias (189-G-92) added 11.
Israel scored first five points in the game but Greece replied with the same run. Tom Slutsky's three made it 17:9 for Israel and Sikalidis reduced to 21:23 at the half. A 9-0 run lifted Israel U16 to 34:22 in the middle of the second. Tagaris was the last to score at the half as the board showed 43:36.
Israel U16 made it plus 15 in the third period but again Greece reduced the margin. The teams entered the last period with 59:50 for Israel. Trailing 57:66 Greek side produced 8-0 run for 65:66. It happened in the end of the game with 7 seconds remaining. Greece fouled and Simchony made the final score from the free throw line.

Greece U16: Linos-Spyridon Chrysikopoulos 17+13 rebs, Panagiotis Papoulias 11, Charalampos Karaiskos (192-G-92) 10
Israel U16: Tom Slutsky 14, Gay Lavie 10, Elias-Pour 10

Sam Hoskin rejected greek offer and is heading to China - by Simon Varvakis
Sam Hoskin (206-F/C-79, agency: Higher Vision Sports, college: De Paul) one the best scoring power forwards in europe makes a surprise signing in China with the ZHEJIANG WANMA CYCLONES. Hoskin was set to sign in Russia with either Enisey or Ural Great or with the Greek team PAOK before the Chinese team convinced the player that some teams in China are very powerful like the Clubs in Greece and Russia. Hoskin played for Cibona last season and averaged 13.7 points and 6.7 rebounds in the Euroleague. Hoskin intends on returning to europe to help a quality team in March since the Chinese season last for seven months instead of the nine month european season.

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


U16 EC, division B: Netherlands 17th, Denmark 18th - by Eurobasket News
U16 Denmark - U16 Netherlands 74-76

Netherlands celebrated against the first neighbor Denmark in the last game of U16 European Championship division B in Sarajevo. It was Netherlands' fourth victory in the row, which was the crucial one for 17th place on this event. After three consecutive wins, Denmark suffered defeat ending competition at one lower place.

Denmark had slightly better first quarter while Netherlands responded in the next one. Danes headed into the second half having 33-32. Nothing has changed in third frame as it was another leveled one. Denmark succeeded to create 54-50 with seven minutes to go. Later, they extended lead to 64-59 and it seemed that Danes are much closer to victory. However, Sam de Haas stepped up for Netherlands after that moment. He scored 9 points in the last three minutes leading 16-7 run for his team. It was 71-75 with just 11 seconds remaining. Denmark made a triple after that but Comvailus made one free throw for the final score 74-76.

This time it was Saam de Haas, who was the key player for Netherlands. He spent 33 minutes on court scoring 21 points and catching 7 rebounds. Joost Vervoort also had important role in his team adding 13 points while Sven Burger had 10. Anders Haas was the leading scorer in Denmark with 16 points. Niels Andreasen had one point less but with 4 assists.


U16 Denmark - U16 Netherlands 74-76
(18-14, 15-18, 15-15, 26-29)

Denmark: Anders Haas 16, Niels Andreasen 15 (4 as)
Netherlands: Sam de Haas 21 (7 rebs), Joost Vervoort 13, Sven Burger 10

*****************************************************
  IBL   


Standings
IBL Standings
East
 1. Elkhart E. 16-1 
 2. Windy City S. 11-11 
 3. Holland B. 9-7 
 4. Battle Creek K. 7-8 
Midwest
 1. Gary S. 15-4 
 2. G.Rapids F. 6-10 
 3. Elgin R. 5-8 
 4. USA All-Stars 1-21 
Southwest
 1. Portland C. 11-13 
 2. Las Vegas 9-9 
 3. C.Oregon H. 8-15 
 4. Los Angeles 7-8 
 5. Shanxi Zh. 1-8 
West
 1. Vancouver V. 15-4 
 2. Bellingham S. 14-2 
 3. Snohomish C. 10-9 
 4. Edmonton C. 9-6 
 5. Tacoma J. 6-11 


Stats Leaders
IBL Stats Leaders
Points Per Game
1. Lucas Portland 38.3
2. Springs Holland 28.8
3. Moodie Elkhart 27.2
4. Murray L.A. 26.5
5. Dunn C. Oregon 26.4
6.Diggs Bellingham 26.1
7.Langhorne G.Rapids 25.9
8. Watkins Elgin 24.5
9. Butler Las Vegas 24.1
10.Horton C. Oregon 23.8
Rebounds Per Game
1.Murray L.A. 12.2
2.Horton C. Oregon 10.6
3.Charles Elkhart 10.5
4.Shaw G.Rapids 10.0
5.Gayden Elgin 10.0
Assists Per Game
1.Hall Las Vegas 10.0
2.Bradford W.City 8.8
3.Springs Holland 8.1
4.Tyner Vancouver 7.2
5.Kyle B.Creek 7.1


*****************************************************
  ICELAND   


U16 EC, division B: Iceland cruises past Austria for 13th place - by Eurobasket News
U16 Iceland - U16 Austria 65-48

Iceland registered an easy victory against Austria in the last day of U16 European Championship division B in Sarajevo. It means that Iceland ended it on 13th place. One lower belongs to Austria.

Iceland had much better shooting day than Austria. The winning side finished this one with 33% for 3-pts, 50% for FG2 and 79% from the free throw line while Austria had 11% for 3-pts, 37% for FG2 and 59% free throws. Except of the first quarter, which Asutria ended 15-17, Iceland was a way better team. Haukur Palsson once again shined in his team helping it to create plus 4 at the half time. Later Iceland extended lead on 49-40. Austrians weren't able even to threat until the end. Actually during the last ten minutes Iceland just increased its digits.

Haukur Palsson was the leading player of Iceland during the entire tournament. This time he also was the key player of his team collecting 17 points and wonderful 16 rebounds for 33 minutes. Bjorn Kristjansson helped the winning team with 11 points. Ferdinand Saukel was better than the others in Austria adding 14 points and 10 boards. Filip Kramer stopped on 12 points.


U16 Iceland - U16 Austria 65-48
(15-17, 19-13, 15-10, 16-8)

Iceland: Haukur Palsson 17 (16 rebs), Bjorn Kristjansson 11
Austria: Ferdinand Saukel 14 (10 rebs), Filip Kramer 12

U16 EC, division B: Iceland better than Portugal - by Eurobasket News
U16 Iceland - U16 Portugal 72-59

Iceland took this one mostly owing to wonderful performance by Haukur Palsson as well as nice played first half. With this victory Iceland remained in race for 13th place on U16 European Championship division B in Sarajevo. Portugal won't have that opportunity. At the last day of competition it will take on F.Y.R. of Macedonia for position number 15.

Iceland had furious beginning. Mostly owing to Bjorn Kristjansson, Iceland created extremely quick 16-2. Bruno Cunha made a triple for Portugal in the next offense after what both teams missed couple of shots. Iceland made two free throws at the very end finishing first frame 18-5. Same trend continued during the following ten minutes. Bjorn Kristjansson and Haukur Palsson took care for the points while Portugal succeeded to score just 12 which meant that Iceland had huge 36-17. Later Portuguese woke up but they couldn't get any closer than five points.

As it was mentioned above, Haukur Palsson was the leading player for the winning team. He played 30 minutes draining 25 points and grabbing 10 boards. Bjorn Kristjansson followed him with 11 points and 4 assists. Rafael Wildner was Portugal's best player with 19 points and 5 rebounds. Bruno Cunha also was good scoring 15 points.


U16 Iceland - U16 Portugal 72-59
(18-5, 18-12, 21-28, 15-14)

Iceland: Haukur Palsson 25 (10 rebs), Bjorn Kristjansson 11 (4 as)
Portugal: Rafael Wildner 19 (5 rebs), Bruno Cunha 15

Thor Akureyri sign Damjanac & Moniak - by Einar Johannsson
Thor AK have signed two bosman players for upcoming season. Milorad Damjanac (206-C, agency: Global Sports Plaza, college: S.Nazarene) is replacing Robert Reed from last season as the center.
Milorad Damjanac is 206 cm serbian and played in college USA last season.
Thor also signed the allaround forward Roman Moniak (196-F-84, college: Adams St.) who is USA/Ukrainien. Moniak was signed for IR at the beginning of last season but did not play much and went to Hamar.
With Hamar he was scoring just above 18 pts a game. Moniak is replacing Luka Marolt who had very good season with Thor.
Cedric Isom is the american for Thor, starting his second season - he had great season last year.

*****************************************************
  ISRAEL   


Stats Leaders - Premier League
BSL Stats Leaders
Points Per Game
1 Burtt, I ASH 21.0
2 Arnold, H JER 16.8
3 Tolbert, I RG 16.7
4 Williams, B HASH 16.7
5 Hill, I NAH 15.4
Rebounds Per Game
1 Ebi, B HASH 8.5
2 Morris, Mac TA 8.2
3 Massie, I ASH 8.1
4 Campbell, H Holon 8.0
5 Kozikaro, I NAH 7.3
Assists Per Game
1 Jones, Gilboa/A. 5.7
2 Tapiro, B HASH 5.5
3 Hagag, H JER 4.7
4 Rot, H HOL 4.6
5 Bowers, H JER 4.5
Steals Per Game
1 Ohayon, GALIL 2.0
2 Bowers, H JER 1.9
3 Shaashua, R LZ 1.8
Blocks Per Game
1 Wallace, I ASH 2.0
2 Morris, MAC TA 1.8
3 Cisse, B HASH 1.7
2FGP
1 Wells, H JER 78.9
2 Halperin, M TA 72.4
3 Campbell. H HOL 71.2
3FGP
1 Shason, H JER 50.5
2 Sharp, Mac TA 49.4
3 Washam, H HOL 48.9
Free Throws
1 Yatzkan, I ASH 96.0
2 Hagag, H JER 90.6
3 Itzkhaki , I RG 90.2
Ranking
1 Arnold H JER 21.5
2 Burtt, I ASH 21.2
3 Morris, MAC TA 18.8
4 Campbell H HOL 18.3
5 Tolbert, I RG 18.1


Israel U16 is 11th, Greece U16 drops to 12th - by Eurobasket News
Greece U16- Israel U16 65:67

Israel U16 finished 11th at the Termosteps U16 European Championship Men. In their last game of the tournament the team overcame Greece U16 67:65. It was a tough game and kept the intrigue until the end of it. Tom Slutsky (-92) led the winners with 14 points. Gay Lavie (188-G-92) and Elias-Pour supported him with 10 points each in a winning effort. Linos-Spyridon Chrysikopoulos (203-F-92) top-scored for Greece with 17 points and 13 rebounds, while Panagiotis Papoulias (189-G-92) added 11.
Israel scored first five points in the game but Greece replied with the same run. Tom Slutsky's three made it 17:9 for Israel and Sikalidis reduced to 21:23 at the half. A 9-0 run lifted Israel U16 to 34:22 in the middle of the second. Tagaris was the last to score at the half as the board showed 43:36.
Israel U16 made it plus 15 in the third period but again Greece reduced the margin. The teams entered the last period with 59:50 for Israel. Trailing 57:66 Greek side produced 8-0 run for 65:66. It happened in the end of the game with 7 seconds remaining. Greece fouled and Simchony made the final score from the free throw line.

Greece U16: Linos-Spyridon Chrysikopoulos 17+13 rebs, Panagiotis Papoulias 11, Charalampos Karaiskos (192-G-92) 10
Israel U16: Tom Slutsky 14, Gay Lavie 10, Elias-Pour 10

*****************************************************
  LATVIA   


Chieti writes down the 9th place for Ukraine U16, Latvia 10th - by Eurobasket News
Latvia U16- Ukraine U16 68:73

Ukraine U16 finished on the 9th spot at the Termosteps U16 European Championship Men. In their last game of the tournament the team beat Latvia U16 73:68. Vyacheslav Bobrov (201-F-92) led the winners with 22 points and 14 rebounds. Olexandr Mishula (185-G-92) nailed 16, whilst Marchenko added 10. Davis Bertans (200-F-92) top-scored in defeat with 17 points, while Andris Misters (192-G-92) and Edmunds Dukulis (201-F/C-92) posted 10 apiece.
There was no favorite in this game and both squads wanted to finish the campaign truthfully. Latvia won the opening tip 14:6 as Davis Bertans made a jump-shot. Ukraine did not give up and Motorchuk lifted Ukraine to 20:18 after the first. Ukraine played a bit better in the second period and Olexandr Mishula closed the half for 39:34.
Olexandr Mishula scored again for 50:36, the biggest lead of his team in the game. Vyacheslav Bobrov remained Ukraine in front for 56:48 after three quarters. Latvia had the last chance to stay in the game and cut the deficit to 61:63. Ukraine stayed tough and set up the final, 73:68 win for the 9th spot in Italy. Latvia will go home with 10th position but will also remain in Division A for the next year.

Latvia U16: Davis Bertans 17, Andris Misters 10, Edmunds Dukulis 10+10 rebs
Ukraine U16: Vyacheslav Bobrov 22+14 rebs, Olexandr Mishula 16, Marchenko 10

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


Lithuania topple France to enter title game in Italy - by Eurobasket News
Lithuania U16 - France U16 73:47

Lithuanian U16 National Team posted their 7th straight win at the European Championship in Italy yesterday. They defeated France to stay unbeaten and secured their birth in the Final of the tournament. Lithuania dominated right from the start and cruised past ambitious France. The Baltic team opened the game with 5 points in a row to show their serious intentions. France however kept it close and trailed by just 2 points after ten minutes of action. The teams exchanged the baskets throughout the second period before Jakstas and Redikas made it 38:30 for Lithuania at halftime. Lithuania finally cleared off late in the third quarter. Cizauskas hit 4 points in a row and Sabonis added a three-pointer for Lithuania to enjoy a 13-point lead with one quarter to go in the game. Pukis added 3 more points to tip off the fourth quarter. Lithuania never looked back further on and easily ensured the winning outcome in this one. Valanciunas tallied 14 points and 13 boards for Lithuania. Brencius had 10 points and 11 boards, while Jakstas contributed 9 points for the winners. Westermann answered with 13 points for France. Keita dropped 10 points in the loss. Lithuania overwhelmed their opponents on the glass 49:34 and limited French players to just 26% from the field. Lithuania sank 43% of field goals.

Lithuania U16: Valanciunas 14+13 boards, Brencius 10+11 boards, Jakstas 9
France U16: Westermann 13, Keita 10

Olympic Games: Argentina outplays Lithuania for the Bronze in Beijing - by Eurobasket News
Lithuania - Argentina 75-87

Argentina demonstrated fantastic performance against Lithuania wining the Bronze on the Olympic Games 2008. Argentineans didn't succeed to defend the Gold from the previous Olympics but they made wonderful success, especially because they played against tough Lithuanians without Emanuel Ginobili (198-G-77, agency: Interperformances), who sprained his ankle in the semifinals.

Argentina entered into this game more focused. After almost 4 minutes Carlos Delfino (199-G-82) and Luis Scola (206-F/C-80) led their team to 6-10. Ten second until the end of the first frame, Argentina reached plus five but thanks to Sarunas Jasikevicius's (192-G-76, college: Maryland) basket from the fast break at the last Lithuania's possession it was 21-24. At the middle of third stanza Argentineans created fantastic 12-1 run, ended by triple from Andres Nocioni (199-F-79), for 28-38. Later thanks to Carlos Delfino and Paolo Quinteros (185-G-79) Argentina extended lead to 12 points until the half time. Nothing has changed after the breather as Lithuanians weren't able to compete against Carlos Delfino and his teammates, which made 44-68 in 28th minute. At the point of game it was already known that the Bronze belongs to Argentina.

Carlos Delfino paced Argentina to victory collecting 20 points and 10 boards for 36 minutes. Luis Scola also was pretty good scoring 16 points while Andres Nocioni has two points less but with 8 boards. Lithuania got the most from Ramunas Siskauskas, who netted 15 points and grabbed 6 boards. Rimantas Kaukenas (193-G-77, college: Seton Hall) followed with 14 points and 4 rebounds.


Lithuania - Argentina 75-87
(21-24, 13-22, 15-22, 26-19)

Lithuania: Ramunas Siskauskas 15 (6 rebs), Rimantas Kaukenas 14 (4 rebs)
Argentina: Carlos Delfino 20 (10 rebs), Luis Scola 16, Andres Nocioni 14 (8 rebs)

Lithuania U16 wins U16 European Championship! - by Eurobasket News
Lithuania U16-Czech Republic U16 75:33

Lithuania U16 is the winner of Termosteps U16 European Championship Men. The team became the best in the continent proving one more time the superiority against Czech Republic U16. The latter became a die hard for all the teams, but not Lithuania U16. The final, 75:33 brought the Baltic side Gold and a junior glory. Vytenis Cizauskas (188-G-92) led the winners with 22 points. Deividas Pukis (193-G/F-92) netted 13, while Jonas Valanciunas (209-C-92) collected 10 points and 15 rebounds. Jan Svejda (191-G/F-92) ended up with 10 and Milan Ryska (204-C/F-92, agency: PPGroup) scored 7 in defeat.
Lithuania U16 won the battle between two perfect teams in Group E at the Termosteps U16 European Championship Men a few days ago. In the last game of the group the Baltic side overcame Czech Republic U16 76:48. Lithuania proved that the team was the favorite of the group and the top position should belong to them.
They started with the same 9-0 run and increased to 29:2 at the end of the opening quarter. Czech Republic U16 did not match them at ll and it seemed that the latter lost all the power in the semis. Another 20:10 in the second brought the winners 49:12 and many of them started to celebrate at that time. Ulanovas made it plus 40 in the beginning of the third and Jonas Valanciunas scored for 65:24 in the last. Tamosiunas closed the nightmare for Czech Republic U16 as the latter had a great tournament anyway. Lithuania U16 triumphs in Italy and brings Gold back home.


Lithuania U16: Vytenis Cizauskas 22, Deividas Pukis 13, Jonas Valanciunas 10+15 rebs
Czech Republic U16: Jan Svejda 10, Milan Ryska 7

*****************************************************
  MONTENEGRO   


U16 EC, division B: Montenegro grabs promotion and a chance for the Gold - by Eurobasket News
U16 Sweden - U16 Montenegro 57-67

Montenegro managed to beat Sweden in the semifinals of U16 European Championship division B in Sarajevo. Thus, thanks to this fantastic victory Montenegrins earned promotion to division A for the next European Championship. It was the main target of U16 Montenegro in Sarajevo. Beside this, they will have a chance to grab the Gold against strong Germany. Sweden missed an opportunity to earn a promotion and it will play against Bulgaria for third place.

After 15-15 in seventh minute, Montenegro made furious 9-2 run for 17-24. Interesting is that both teams scored 41 points together in the first frame while during the next ten minutes they made only 10. There was a lot of bad decisions as well as erratic shots on the both sides of the court. Everything resulted with 6 points by Sweden and only 4 by Montenegro. After this extremely low-scoring quarter, next one was much better. Mostly owing to Tuan Nguyen and Jonathan Person ended it 17-16 but it was enough only for 40-44. At the beginning of the last frame Mladen Novakovic (-92) and Jaksa Vulevic led crucial 8-4 run for their team. Very soon Montenegro stretched lead to 10 points registering comfortable victory in the semifinals of U16 EC division B.

Mladen Novakovic was the key player for Montenegro in this wonderful victory. He had an opportunity to play almost the entire game collecting 25 points and missing only one rebound for double-double. Jaksa Vulevic helped his team with 13 points while Andrej Pajovic also was very close to record double-double, 12 points and 9 boards. Sweden got the most from Tuan Nguyen, who added 15 points and 4 rebounds. Jonathan Person was the last one with double digits in Sweden scoring exactly 10 points.


U16 Sweden - U16 Montenegro 57-67
(17-24, 6-4, 17-16, 17-23)

Sweden: Tuan Nguyen 15 (4 rebs), Jonathan Person 10
Montenegro: Mladen Novakovic 25 (9 rebs), Jaksa Vulevic 13, Andrej Pajovic 12 (9 rebs)

U16 EC, division B: Gold medal belongs to Germany - by Eurobasket News
U16 Germany - U16 Montenegro 76-69

Germany captured the gold medal on U16 European Championship division B in Sarajevo. The Germans dominated during the entire event ending it undefeated. Silver medal belongs to Montenegro but it is important to be mentioned that both teams earned promotion to division A, what was their main goal in Sarajevo.

Germany had furious first quarter. After five minutes and a lay-up by Jarelle Reischel (194-F-92), Germany made 17-8. Two minutes later the Germans stretched advantage to huge 17 points. Mijanovic netted 3-pointer in the last offense while Fulle made a lay-up for 27-11 after first quarter. Montenegrins were better during the next 10 minutes while they showed even more in third frame. With 57 seconds to go Vulevic tied the score on 52-52 after what Mladen Novakovic (-92) drained a triple for 52-55 for Montenegro. However, third quarter ended 54-55 because of successful jump shot by Heckman. Question about the new champion is resolved in the last two minutes. On 69-69 Philipp Neumann and Jarelle Reischel netted 6 points in the row while Montenegro missed three times leaving the Gold to Germany.

Mathis Monninghoff (192-G-92) was the best scorer for the new division B champion netting 19 points. Kevin Bright (193-F-92) once again demonstrated wonderful performance adding 18 points and 10 rebounds. Philipp Neumann finished the game with 14 points and 11 boards while Jarelle Reischel also had 14 points but with 9 rebounds. Mladen Novakovic again shined in Montenegro having 17 points and 5 rebounds. Stefan Djordan netted one point less.


U16 Germany - U16 Montenegro 76-69
(27-11, 16-20, 11-24, 22-14)

Germany: Mathis Monninghoff 19, Kevin Bright 18 (10 rebs), Philipp Neumann 14 (11 rebs), Jarelle Reischel 14 (9 rebs)
Montenegro: Mladen Novakovic 17 (5 rebs), Stefan Djordan 16y

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


Stats Leaders
Olympic Games Stats Leaders
Points Per Game
1. Wade, USA 18.3
2. Yao, CHN 18.0
3. Ginobili, ARG 18.0
4. Gasol, ESP 17.7
5. Spanoulis, GRE 17.3
Rebounds Per Game
1. Yao, CHN 8.7
2. Ehadadi, IRI 8.3
3. Nocioni, ARG 8.3
4. Yi, CHN 7.7
5. Javtokas, LTU 7.0
Assists Per Game
1. Ginobili, ARG 5.7
2. Jasikevicius, LTU 5.3
3. James, USA 4.7
4. Holden, RUS 4.3
5. Paul, USA 4.0
Steals Per Game
1. Maciulis, LTU 3.5
2. Wade, USA 3.0
Blocks Per Game
1. Ehadadi, IRI 3.0
2. Kirilenko, RUS 3.0
2FGP
1. Wade, USA 76.0
2. Newley, AUS 68.0
3FGP
1. Planinic, CRO 71.4
1. Kaukenas, LTU 60.0
Free Throws
1. Papaloukas, GRE 100
2. Ginobili, ARG 95.5


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


Poland preserve spot in Division A - by Eurobasket News
Poland U16 Georgia U16 86:57

Polish U16 National Team celebrated an important victory over Georgia to secure their Division A spot for the next year. They improved to 2-1 record in the classification round Group G and occupied the saving second spot. Georgia in the meantime lost all three of their classification encounters and got relegated to Division B. Kwiatkowski and Stalicki knocked down 15 points apiece to pace Poland. Kakauridze answered with 13 points for Georgia. Georgia tried to stay in the race in the starting frame as they trailed by just three points heading into the second quarter 14:17. However Poland opened the second period with a 7:0 run to build a 10-point lead. Georgia used 5 points from Eliadze to ignite a rally that trimmed the deficit to just a single point 26:27 with under 3 minutes to go in the frame. Lesczynski however scored 4 points late in the quarter and Poland accumulated a 35:29 advantage at halftime. The teams traded baskets throughout the third stanza with Poland maintaining the margin. Polish players made the decisive run early in the fourth term. They chipped in 9 unanswered points and established a 16-point advantage. Kwiatkowski soon stretched it to 19 and Poland never looked back again. Lesczynski notched 14 points for the winners. Bokolishvili and Eliadze replied with 10 points apiece for Georgia.

Poland U16: Kwiatkowski 15, Stalicki 15, Lesczynski 14
Georgia U16: Kakauridze 13, Bokolishvili 10, Eliadze 10


Three ex-NCAAers in Poland - by Michal Falkowski
Eric Coleman (201-C-85, agency: Hart Sports Mngm) signed one year-deal with Polpharma Starogard Gdanski. American power forward or center was a member of University of Northern Iowa (NCAA)last season was averaging 12,3 ppg. and 8,8 rpg. The club parted ways with Zbigniew Marculewicz (205-F-78, agency: Promotex) who is probably heading to Sportino Inowroclaw.

Ousmane Barro (208-F-84) will play for Victoria Gornik Walbrzych next season. Senegalese center spent last four years in Marquette Univeristy. In NCAA league he was scoring 5,5 ppg. and adding 5,5 rpg.

Richard Law (198-F-83, college: S.Alabama) is a new face in Bank BPS Basket Kwidzyn. American forward played in Jackson Wildcats in USBL. Before that, he had represented University of South Alabama (NCAA) where he was noting 10,8 ppg. and 4,4 rpg. He has just signatured one-month deal which may be prolonged after this period of time.

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


U16 EC, division B: Macedonians outsmarts Portugal for 15th place - by Eurobasket News
U16 Portugal - U16 F.Y.R. of Macedonia 76-81

After four defeats, F.Y.R. of Macedonia finally succeeded to grab win on U16 European Championship division B. It was the last day of the competition, which Macedonia ended on 15th place. Because of this defeat Portugal is a 16th ranked team in Sarajevo.

It was interesting game as the winner was decided in the last quarter. Portugal was better team at the beginning ending first frame 19-15. Macedonia answered in the next one but it was enough just for minus 2, 42-40. Nikola Gajdadjiev shined for Macedonia in third frame. He, together with Darko Gjorgjievski and Gorjan Markovski, played pretty good ten minutes leading their team to the last quarter with plus 3. Portuguese showed they are dangerous opponent in 35th minute, 69-68. Once again Nikola Gajdadjiev led his team, which this time created crucial 13-5 run.

Darko Gjorgjievski was on fire in this game leading his team to victory with 23 points and 7 rebounds. Nikola Gajadjiev also great adding 18 points and 9 rebounds while Gorjan Markovski followed him with 15 points and 6 boards. Portugal's best player was Bruno Cunha, who collected 19 points and 10 rebounds. Jonah Callenbach had one point less.


U16 Portugal - U16 F.Y.R. of Macedonia 76-81
(19-15, 23-25, 18-23, 16-18)

Portugal: Bruno Cunha 19 (10 rebs), Jonah Callenbach 18
Macedonia: Darko Gjorgjievski 23 (7 rebs), Nikola Gajdadjiev 18 (9 rebs), Gorjan Markovski 15 (6 rebs)

U16 EC, division B: Iceland better than Portugal - by Eurobasket News
U16 Iceland - U16 Portugal 72-59

Iceland took this one mostly owing to wonderful performance by Haukur Palsson as well as nice played first half. With this victory Iceland remained in race for 13th place on U16 European Championship division B in Sarajevo. Portugal won't have that opportunity. At the last day of competition it will take on F.Y.R. of Macedonia for position number 15.

Iceland had furious beginning. Mostly owing to Bjorn Kristjansson, Iceland created extremely quick 16-2. Bruno Cunha made a triple for Portugal in the next offense after what both teams missed couple of shots. Iceland made two free throws at the very end finishing first frame 18-5. Same trend continued during the following ten minutes. Bjorn Kristjansson and Haukur Palsson took care for the points while Portugal succeeded to score just 12 which meant that Iceland had huge 36-17. Later Portuguese woke up but they couldn't get any closer than five points.

As it was mentioned above, Haukur Palsson was the leading player for the winning team. He played 30 minutes draining 25 points and grabbing 10 boards. Bjorn Kristjansson followed him with 11 points and 4 assists. Rafael Wildner was Portugal's best player with 19 points and 5 rebounds. Bruno Cunha also was good scoring 15 points.


U16 Iceland - U16 Portugal 72-59
(18-5, 18-12, 21-28, 15-14)

Iceland: Haukur Palsson 25 (10 rebs), Bjorn Kristjansson 11 (4 as)
Portugal: Rafael Wildner 19 (5 rebs), Bruno Cunha 15

Galitos FC sign Joseph Jack - by Eurobasket
Galitos FC (Proliga) strengthened their roster with addition of American power forward Joseph Jack (206-F/C, college: Southern). Jack graduated this spring Southern University (NCAA) in the U.S. It will be his first year in professional basketball. Last year in his senior season he averaged 7.0ppg and 5.1rpg. He tried to stay active this summer attending Tournament of the Stars Pro Leauge.

*****************************************************
  ROMANIA   


U16 EC, division B: Romania better than Cyprus for 19th place in Sarajevo - by Eurobasket News
U16 Cyprus - U16 Romania 57-62

Romania outsmarts Cyprus in the last day of U16 European Championship division B in Sarajevo ending it on 19th place.

Romania took this one mostly owing to Cornel Alexiu and well played second half of the game. First quarter was totally leveled. Both teams had a small lead but nothing more than that, 12-12. During the following ten minutes Cyprus showed much better performance. Cypriots intensified defense stopping Romanians on just 6 points in this quarter. On the other hand Andreas Vlachos and Riginos Kasinopoulos (185-G-92) were on fire and together with their teammates ended this frame 14-6, 26-18 at the half time. At the middle of third frame Cyprus extended lead to 9 points but Cornel Alexiu woke up in Romania helping it to come on 38-33 before the last quarter. In just few minutes Romanians smashed Cyprus making 17-5 run for 43-50 with 5 minutes to go. Andreas Vlachos once again shined for his team tying the score on 57-57 with 30 seconds remaining. Cornel Alexiu immediatelly answered draining 5 consecutive points for the final score 57-62.

Cornel Alexiu scored 21 points in total grabbing 11 rebounds more. Catalin Horga helped Romania with 11 points. Andreas Vlachos collected 22 points and 5 boards for Cyprus while Riginos Kasinopoulos had 15 points and 4 boards. Both teams remained in division B for the next European Championship.


U16 Cyprus - U16 Romania 57-62
(12-12, 14-6, 12-15, 19-29)

Cyprus: Andreas Vlachos 22 (5 rebs), Riginos Kasinopoulos 15 (4 rebs)
Romania: Cornel Alexiu 21 (11 rebs), Catalin Horga 11

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


The Croats finish seventh, Russia U18 is eighth - by Eurobasket News
Croatia U16-Russia U16 83:77

Croatia U16 could be proud of the 7th place at the Termosteps U16 European Championship Men. In their last game of the tournament the team overcame Russia 83:77. Stefan Zadravec (187-G-92) was unstoppable with 30 points and 5 rebounds. Boris Barac (202-F-92) netted 11, while Marko Ramljak (195-F-93) scored 10. Dmitry Kulagin (194-G-92) ended up with 27 points, whilst Victor Pavlenko (194-F-92) and Denis Sidletskiy (186-G-92) added 10 each.
Marko Ramljak opened the game from the arc for Croatia as his team was always in front in the opening quarter. Varnakov closed the first period at 21:19 making 2/2 free throws. The second quarter was successful for the winners that had 40:25 in the middle of it. Zaryazhko reduced the gap for Russia 41:30 sending the teams to the lockers.
In the third period the game was even however Croatia kept the margin. They finished three quarters with 64:53 as Denis Sidletskiy made a jump-shot. Russia was not ready to give up scoring 14 against only three on the other side to enter the last five minutes close behind, 65:61. The Russian squad tied the game at 72:72. With 79:77 Croatia scored 4 consecutive points to seal the last win of the tournament.

Croatia U16: Stefan Zadravec 30+5 rebs, Boris Barac 11, Marko Ramljak 10
Russia U16: Dmitry Kulagin 27, Victor Pavlenko 10, Denis Sidletskiy 10

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


Pescara saw the last win of Serbia U16 against Spain U16 - by Eurobasket News
Spain U16-Serbia U16 56:60

Pescara saw the last win of Serbia U16 against Spain U16 at the Termosteps U16 European Championship Men. Serbia beat the opponent 60:56 for the 5th spot in Italy. Strahinja Mladenovic (198-F-92) paced all the winners with 19 points and 6 rebounds. Djordje Drenovac (197-F-92) collected 17 points and 10 rebounds, while Aleksandar Cvetkovic (180-G-93) and Luka Igrutinovic (194-G-92) added 6 each. Miguel Servera (195-F-92) ended up with 14 points and 8 rebounds and Albert Ventura (190-F-92) had 13.
Serbia and Spain had both a good start and remained close to each other in the beginning. Creus gave Spain 13:8 but then Luka Igrutinovic scored for 16:15 Serbian lead. The latter continued their 13-0 run in the second quarter and stopped at 23:15. Miguel Servera sent the teams to the lockers with 29:26.
Again him tied the game in the third period for 32:32. With 13:9 in the third period Serbia improved to 42:35 after three quarters played. Strahinja Mladenovic made it 47:39 with 5 minutes in the last. Farina carried Italy to 51:47 with less than three minutes to play, but he wasn't done yet. With 81 seconds on the clock he connected a three point play to tie the game at 54:54. Strahinja Mladenovic and Djordje Drenovac scored last 4 points in the campaign as Serbia finished 5th in the tournament.


Spain U16: Miguel Servera 14+8 rebs, Albert Ventura 13
Serbia U16: Strahinja Mladenovic 19+6 rebs, Djordje Drenovac 17+10 rebs, Aleksandar Cvetkovic 6, Luka Igrutinovic 6

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


U16 EC, division B: Slovenia fifth, Belarus sixth in Sarajevo - by Eurobasket News
U16 Belarus - U16 Slovenia 56-84

Slovenia gave a real basketball lesson to Belarus in the last game in Bosnian capital Sarajevo. Slovenians, which were extremely close to reach the semifinals and a chance to fight for the promotion to division A, ended the championship on not so bad fifth place. They demonstrated pretty good performance and it wouldn't be undeserved if they advanced to the semis.

Slovenians were much motivated from the beginning. They ended first frame 14-19 while later they totally destroyed Byelorussians. Jure Besedic (204-F/C-92) together with Rojc and Span led his team in the second quarter. In just few minutes Slovenians already resolved question about the winner. They made amazing 16-0 run setting the score on big 17-35 with 2 minutes remaining in the first half. Belarus wasn't able to threat for the rest of the game. After 30 minutes Slovenia reached plus 20 while later they extended lead to final 28 points.

Uros Pavlovic (196-F-92) helped his team to reach the fifth place with 14 points and 4 rebounds. Jaka Brodnik followed adding 12 points and 9 boards while Jure Besedic finished the game also with 12 points and one board less than Brodnik. Vitali Liutych (190-G-92) was the best player of Belarus during the entire event and he ended it in style scoring 18 points and grabbing 8 rebounds. Mikita Strukau had 10 points and 5 boards.


U16 Belarus - U16 Slovenia 56-84
(14-19, 8-21, 19-21, 15-23)

Belarus: Vitali Liutych 18 (8 rebs), Mikita Strukau 10 (5 rebs)
Slovenia: Uros Pavlovic 14 (4 rebs), Jaka Brodnik 12 (9 rebs), Jure Besedic 12 (8 rebs)

U16 EC, division B: Slovenia too much for Bosnia and Herzegovina - by Eurobasket News
U16 Slovenia - U16 Bosnia and Herzegovina 87-73

Slovenians had an easy job in the first game of Classification Round for 5th to 8th place in Sarajevo. They succeeded to beat Bosnia at the front of their fans passing first step to position number five. Last obstacle on that way will be Belarus. Bosnians will try to end this championship with victory. Their last rival will be Finland.

Slovenia done a great job already in the first stanza. Actually this period was the crucial one. After triple by Brodnik, Slovenia ended quick 7-0 run. Adis Drina made it for Bosnia but Slovenians took care for another 7-2 series, 14-4. Jan Span hit a long range stroke at Slovenia's last offense in first quarter reaching impressive plus 17. However, Adis Drina made a jump shot at the buzzer for 26-11 after ten minutes. It seemed that Slovenians played rest of the game as much as they needed for easy victory.

This time Jaka Brodnik was the leading player of the winning team. He scored 15 points and caught 7 boards for 32 minutes. Jan Span also was great with 14 points and 5 rebounds while Jure Besedic had one points less than him. Adis Drina collected 15 points and 9 rebounds for the hosts of U16 EC division B. Dino Begagic scored 13 while Goran Vucic had 12.


U16 Slovenia - U16 Bosnia and Herzegovina 87-73
(26-11, 23-20, 21-22, 17-20)

Slovenia: Jaka Brodnik 15 (7 rebs), Jan Span 14 (5 rebs), Jure Besedic 13
Bosnia: Adis Drina 15 (9 rebs), Dino Begagic 13, Goran Vucic 12

*****************************************************
  SOUTH KOREA   


Sakers, Slingers and Red Oilers Win - by Rick Ross
Defending Champion Sakers move 2 & 0 as they prepare for
Singapore Slingers 2 & 0

LG Sakers 96 Mail & More 81
Darwin Airport Resort 90 Singapore Slingers 91
Jordan All-Stars 66 Quezon Red Oilers 79

LG Sakers 96 Mail & More 81 [Full Time]

Malabanan scores again but too late.
Sakers No.10 three pointers 96-81
Malabanan 1/2 FT 40 secs left 93-79
Malabanan lay up but Sakers No27 scores 3 pointer 93-78 Sakers
Fuando scores 3 pointer 90-72 2 mins left
Lee Ji-Un misses 3 pointer LG Sakers still lead 90-68 4mins
Sakers No.31 misses 3 and so does Chris
Fuando gets jump shot, he has a good game today
Sakers leading 90-66 6 mins left
Lee Ji-Un No.41 is on hot streak, runs in and scores for 24 point lead
Fuando basket again.. seems to be in the game so far
Solis basket after assist by Chris 88-64 7 mins left
Manabat misses 3 pointer
Fuando responds with basket
Lee Ji-Un scores 3 pointer again
Ronnie head coach of M&M unhappy with referee
Looks like another defeat for M&M
Sakes No.41 Lee Ji-Un 3 pointers 85-59
Sakers Suk 3 pointers then Solis 2 pts


*****************************************************
  SPAIN   


Pescara saw the last win of Serbia U16 against Spain U16 - by Eurobasket News
Spain U16-Serbia U16 56:60

Pescara saw the last win of Serbia U16 against Spain U16 at the Termosteps U16 European Championship Men. Serbia beat the opponent 60:56 for the 5th spot in Italy. Strahinja Mladenovic (198-F-92) paced all the winners with 19 points and 6 rebounds. Djordje Drenovac (197-F-92) collected 17 points and 10 rebounds, while Aleksandar Cvetkovic (180-G-93) and Luka Igrutinovic (194-G-92) added 6 each. Miguel Servera (195-F-92) ended up with 14 points and 8 rebounds and Albert Ventura (190-F-92) had 13.
Serbia and Spain had both a good start and remained close to each other in the beginning. Creus gave Spain 13:8 but then Luka Igrutinovic scored for 16:15 Serbian lead. The latter continued their 13-0 run in the second quarter and stopped at 23:15. Miguel Servera sent the teams to the lockers with 29:26.
Again him tied the game in the third period for 32:32. With 13:9 in the third period Serbia improved to 42:35 after three quarters played. Strahinja Mladenovic made it 47:39 with 5 minutes in the last. Farina carried Italy to 51:47 with less than three minutes to play, but he wasn't done yet. With 81 seconds on the clock he connected a three point play to tie the game at 54:54. Strahinja Mladenovic and Djordje Drenovac scored last 4 points in the campaign as Serbia finished 5th in the tournament.


Spain U16: Miguel Servera 14+8 rebs, Albert Ventura 13
Serbia U16: Strahinja Mladenovic 19+6 rebs, Djordje Drenovac 17+10 rebs, Aleksandar Cvetkovic 6, Luka Igrutinovic 6

Mallet Backs Badalona's New Coach - by Paul Nilsen
DKV Joventut guard Demond Mallet (186-G-78, agency: Higher Vision Sports, college: Mc Neese St.) has given his backing to new coach Sito Alonso and believes that Catalan team will be as competitive as ever under his guidance writes www.acb-basket.com.

Having arrived back in Spain for pre-season after spending summer time back in Dallas with his family, Mallet is ready to begin the hard work which can continue to cement his status as one of the better guards in the ACB.

It has been a strange summer for fans of La Penya and perhaps for Mallet himself who was very much part of the Huertas will he, wont he? saga that lasted all summer. Once Huertas determined that he was not coming back to Badalona, that put Mallet in a stronger position and eventually the American put pen to paper tro return.

With Aito gone from the helm (and likely to pitch up in Malaga) and the star attraction Rudy also packing his bags, some have expressed concern that the ULEB Cup and Copa Del Rey Champions might be due for a stepo backwards - not according to Mallet who told the clubs web-site,

I have great hopes and expectations and my highest hope is that the season is more or less like the past. We have good team, good coach. I hope WE can repeat all the good things we did during the past'.

'I think Sito is the ideal person to coach the team. This is a young but good coach, tireless worker and I wish him good luck and success in this new season.'

Sito has good relationship with the players, he has a lot of talk with us. Hes a good person and will be a very valid coach for this team, one that he knows very well.

He continued 'Both the president Villacampa, the technical director and the coach Alonso know how to do their job well when it comes to moving or incorporating new players, as it shows good results in recent years.'

'I hope that the new players do it better and we help them to integrate rapidly and we remain a great team.'

While his team-mates both past and present have been playing at the Olympics or in NBA Summer Leagues, Mallet has been relaxing with his family and friends. Not only that, but with another year at the very least in Badalona he is vowing to brush up on his Catalan skills as quickly as he can.

'I've taken advantage of my vacation to relax, work and play some basketball. My friends and family have occupied almost all my time, but Im thinking about getting in shape for the start of the season

I will try to speak Castilian better, I speak well and able to communicate better with everyone. I want to learn more about speaking, although I do not have time to take classes, teachers are only available at the times that we train and this is difficult.

For most of the Penya faithful, I would guess that forgiving Mallet for not being able to speak the local dialect is pretty easy. Providing just like last season and especially en route to Copa Del Rey success, he continues to do his talking on the court.

Moncasi to Gran Canaria - by Robert Mayor
Kalise Gran Canaria announced that has reached an agreement with F.C. Barcelona and his young center Albert Moncasi (209-C-86). 'Blaugrana' club will loan Moncasi to island team that needed an Spanish player in order to complete its roster.

Moncasi, played 5 minutes in 17 games last season averaging one point and grabbing one rebound. This season, with Salva Maldonado as head coach, center expects to play more minutes.

*****************************************************
  SWEDEN   


U16 EC, division B: Montenegro grabs promotion and a chance for the Gold - by Eurobasket News
U16 Sweden - U16 Montenegro 57-67

Montenegro managed to beat Sweden in the semifinals of U16 European Championship division B in Sarajevo. Thus, thanks to this fantastic victory Montenegrins earned promotion to division A for the next European Championship. It was the main target of U16 Montenegro in Sarajevo. Beside this, they will have a chance to grab the Gold against strong Germany. Sweden missed an opportunity to earn a promotion and it will play against Bulgaria for third place.

After 15-15 in seventh minute, Montenegro made furious 9-2 run for 17-24. Interesting is that both teams scored 41 points together in the first frame while during the next ten minutes they made only 10. There was a lot of bad decisions as well as erratic shots on the both sides of the court. Everything resulted with 6 points by Sweden and only 4 by Montenegro. After this extremely low-scoring quarter, next one was much better. Mostly owing to Tuan Nguyen and Jonathan Person ended it 17-16 but it was enough only for 40-44. At the beginning of the last frame Mladen Novakovic (-92) and Jaksa Vulevic led crucial 8-4 run for their team. Very soon Montenegro stretched lead to 10 points registering comfortable victory in the semifinals of U16 EC division B.

Mladen Novakovic was the key player for Montenegro in this wonderful victory. He had an opportunity to play almost the entire game collecting 25 points and missing only one rebound for double-double. Jaksa Vulevic helped his team with 13 points while Andrej Pajovic also was very close to record double-double, 12 points and 9 boards. Sweden got the most from Tuan Nguyen, who added 15 points and 4 rebounds. Jonathan Person was the last one with double digits in Sweden scoring exactly 10 points.


U16 Sweden - U16 Montenegro 57-67
(17-24, 6-4, 17-16, 17-23)

Sweden: Tuan Nguyen 15 (4 rebs), Jonathan Person 10
Montenegro: Mladen Novakovic 25 (9 rebs), Jaksa Vulevic 13, Andrej Pajovic 12 (9 rebs)

U16 EC, division B: Bulgaria grabs the Bronze in Sarajevo - by Eurobasket News
U16 Bulgaria - U16 Sweden 81-61

Bulgaria had unexpectedly easy job against Sweden in the battle for the Bronze on U16 European Championship division B in Sarajevo. Bulgarians grabbed it mostly owing to magnificent performance by Georgi Sirakov (184-G-92, agency: Interperformances). Sweden ended championship on fourth place but the bad thing for both teams is that they didn't succeed to qualify for division A. They were pretty close to it but at the same time it was a bite which was unreachable for them.

Bulgaria dominated during the entire time. After every quarter its advantage became bigger and bigger. Georgi Sirakov and Pavlin Ivanov led their team to solid 21-14 in the first quarter. Later, Bulgarians set the margin on 10 points keeping it steady until the half time. Third period actually was the crucial one in this game. Bulgarians entered to it making impressive 12-3 run. After triple by Georgi Sirakov in 28th minute it was already known which team will celebrate the Bronze at the end. It was 57-38 for Bulgaria at that time, what was too much for Sweden until the end.

Georgi Sirakov paced the winners to Bronze scoring 28 points for 27 minutes. Pavlin Ivanov also had very important role in his team adding 14 points. Dimitar Dimitrov helped with 11 points. Erik Noram was the best player in Sweden with 13 points and 6 rebounds. Carl Gaddefors stopped on 12 points and 4 boards.


U16 Bulgaria - U16 Sweden 81-61
(21-14, 19-16, 19-10, 22-21)

Bulgaria: Georgi Sirakov 28, Pavlin Ivanov 14, Dimitar Dimitrov 11
Sweden: Erik Norman 13 (6 rebs), Carl Gaddefors 12 (4 rebs)

*****************************************************
  SWITZERLAND   


U16 EC, division B: Harm Loontiens paces Belgium against Switzerland - by Eurobasket News
U16 Switzerland - U16 Belgium 65-68

Despite it was 65-68 at the end, it was an easy victory for Belgium, which will continue it way to ninth place on U16 European Championship division B in Sarajevo. At the last day of the competition Belgium will meet Estonia, which was better than England 65-46. Thus, Switzerland will meet England trying to reach 11th place.

Harm Loontiens led his team to victory scoring 16 points and grabbing 4 rebounds. Jordan Delva (195-F-92) also shined finishing the game with 13 points and 4 boards. Tandem Stefan Petkovic (182-G-92) - Zoran Zivanovic (200-F-92) was great in Switzerland. Petkovic added pretty good 18 points, 8 rebounds and 5 assists while Zivanovic had 16 points and 6 boards.

Crucial period of the game was third quarter. After totally leveled first half Belgians put into the fifth gear. Actually, during the last few minutes of third period they created 8-o run heading into the last ten minutes with 44-52. Harm Loontiens was the key player in this quick run scoring three lay-ups. Very soon Belgium, extended its lead even more. After jump shot by Harm Loontiens at the middle of last frame Belgium touched plus 10. It was a clear signal that the game is over for Switzerland.


U16 Switzerland - U16 Belgium 65-68
(13-11, 15-17, 16-24, 21-16)

Switzerland: Stefan Petkovic 18 (8 rebs, 5 as), Zoran Zivanovic 16 (6 rebs)
Belgium: Harm Loontiens 16 (4 rebs), Jordan Delva 13 (4 rebs)

U16 EC, division B: England edges Switzerland for 11th place in Sarajevo - by Eurobasket News
U16 England - U16 Switzerland 56-53

England ended U16 European Championship on 11th place. The British were better than Switzerland in the last day of the competition mostly owing to great last quarter. Twelfth place in Sarajevo belongs to Switzerland.

It was interesting game until the very end. England was better in first 20-16 while Switzerland shined in the second quarter 6-13. Third one was totally leveled meaning that Switzerland had 39-42 before the last frame. Very soon England tied the score and later through John Gould grabbed 48-42. With 4 minutes to go it was 53-46 but then Stefan Petkovic stepped up in Switzerland leading 7-0 run for his team, 53-53. Almost three minutes after that neither team succeeded to net any point. Actually Switzerland stayed without it until the end of the game while England got one free throw and a lay-up from Matthew Clark, what was enough for the win.

Aaron Geramipoor was the key player for England in this game. He recorded double-double, 13 points and 11 rebounds. John Gould also had 13 points for the winning team. Stefan Petkovic once again was the best in Switzerland. Tthis time he added 14 points and 6 boards. Milos Bozovic had 11 points and 6 rebounds.


U16 England - U16 Switzerland 56-53
(20-16, 6-13, 13-13, 17-11)

England: Aaron Geramipoor 13 (11 rebs), John Gould 13
Switzerland: Stefan Petkovic 14 (6 rebs), Milos Bozovic 11 (6 rebs)

*****************************************************
  TPBL   


Standings
TPBL Standings
1. East Tx. Trailblazers 0-0
2. Midland Heat 0-0
3. Houston P.T.S. 0-0
4. San Angelo Chaparrals 0-0
5. Cyperss Synergy 0-0
6. Lake Jackson 0-0
7. Central Tx Blackhawks 0-0
8. Wichita Falls 0-0
9. Garland 0-0
10. San Antonio 0-0
0-0


TPBL TO ADD WOMENS PRO DIVISION - by Chris Cardenas

TPBL- after 9yrs of mens pro basketball in Texas, the TPBL is going to expand. Starting in June 2009 the TPBL will officially have a womens division. Any teams in Texas wanting to play, represent their cities, give their female players some exposure ....THEN THE TPBL IS LOOKING FOR YOU! Entry fee for the womens division is going to be $750 per team to enter with a 12 team inaugrual season schedule (6 home games & 6 away games) . for a TPBL league packet ....call 325-763-6630 or email league owner chris cardens at : cardenas_chris@yahoo.com.
With all the ups and downs, good news bad news the TPBL IS STRONGER THAN EVER.....Come see why the TPBL is our NEW TEXAS TRADITION!!

*****************************************************
  TURKEY   


Turkey U16 tastes Bronze, France U16 finishes 4th - by Eurobasket News
France U16-Turkey U16 65:77

Pescara named Turkey U16 to be the third team at the Termosteps U16 European Championship Men. In the game for the third place Turkey U18 beat France 77:65. Enes Kanter (205-C-92) was again the hero of the game scoring 28 points and grabbing 20 rebounds. Burak Yuksel (203-F-92) nailed 20, while Safak Edge (185-G-92) scored 14. Leo Westermann (196-G-92) top-scored for France with 22 points and Evan Fournier (196-G-92) netted 12.
Turkey flew to 10:2 run in the opening tip of the game, however France did nit let them go too far from them. Pourchot closed the first period at 18:18. Turkey again pushed the tempo in the second period and Burak Yuksel made it 40:27. Right before half time Enes Kanter reached 20 showing he can score from long range as well, as Turkey held a 42:31 difference at the break.
France did not give up and Pourchot brought his team to 43:48 with 6 minutes in the third. France felt the game was within reach, but couldn't find the way to make it work as they entered their last quarter of the competition down 46:54. Burak Yuksel scored for 57:47 in the start of the last period but Evan Fournier reduced to 57:51. Leo Westermann and Diakite cut the deficit to only 2 points but closer France could not come in the end. Turkey U16 became the third team at the Termosteps U16 European Championship Men.

France U16: Leo Westermann 22, Evan Fournier 12
Turkey U16: Enes Kanter 28+20 rebs, Burak Yuksel 20, Safak Edge 14

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


Virgin Islands National team for Centrobasket 2008 - by David Edole
After much prodding and a use of a cattle prod, I got a glimpse of what the Virgin Islands national team looks like. My sources gave me eleven names that will participate in the 2008 Centrobasket tournament that will be held in Mexico. And they are Kevin Sheppard (jacksonville), Cuthbert Victor (Murray State), Jason Edwin (196-G/F-81, agency: Scorers 1st Sportmanagement, college: Kent St.), Jabari Samuels (Weatherford CC), Kitwana Rhymer (UMass) , Calvert White (SE Missouri State), Stephen Hodge (Edward Waters), Michael Ford (Northwood), Rick Lewis (Benedict), Kashif Gumbs (185-G-87) and Craig Williams (203-F-90).

This tournament takes place from the 27th to the 31st of August and will be played between the cities of Cancun and Chetumal, Mexico. This competition will reward the best four teams with the right to play at the 2009 FIBA Americas Championship, tournament that is a qualifier for the 2010 FIBA World Championship for Men.

The national teams that are scheduled to participate are Costa Rica, Cuba, El Salvador, Mexico, Panam, Dominican Republic Puerto Rico and the Virgin Islands.

FOLLOW THE TEAM ON THE NET
MediaSports, a sporting events on-demand transmission via the Internet and FIBA Americas have reached an exclusive agreement to cover the upcoming 2008 CentroBasket Championship. Click here for more information.
OR just log onto FIBA AMERICA.

PAST PRERFORMANCE IN MEXICO
The last time the Virgin Islands played in Centrobasket 2003 in Mexico, the Cagers lost three games by a total of four points. The team lost to Mexico in the Bronze Medal game 78-76. The team played without starters Kitwana Rhymer (broken leg) and Raja Bell (suspended for two games) whom got into WWE action with Puerto Rico in a semifinal game. Was Cuthbert Victor fouled with time on the clock? We will never know. The V.I. team lost, 87-86. Additionally the Virgin Islands lost to Mexico in pool play 92-91 in overtime.

Group A Schedule:
Group A: Republica Dominicana, Mexico, Virgin Islands, El Salvador (Chetumal, Estado de Quintana Roo, Mexico).

Wednesday 27 of August

6:00 PM Opening Ceremony
6:30 PM Mexico vs El Salvador
9:00 PM Virgin Islands vs Republica Dominicana

Thursday, 28 of August:

6:30 PM Republica Dominicana vs El Salvador
9:00 PM Virgin Islands vs Mexico

Friday, 29 of August

4:00 PM El Salvador vs Virgin Islands
6:30 PM Mexico vs Republica Dominicana

Group B Schedule:

Group B: Puerto Rico, Panama, Cuba y Costa Rica (Cancun, Estado de
Quintana Roo, Mexico).

Wednesday 27 of August

6:00 PM Cuba vs Panama
8:30 PM Opening Ceremony
9:00 PM Costa Rica vs Puerto Rico

Thursday, 28 of August:

6:30 PM Panama vs Costa Rica
9:00 PM Puerto Rico vs Cuba

Friday, 29 of August

6:30 PM Costa Rica vs Cuba
9:00 PM Puerto Rico vs Panama

Saturday 30 of August: Semifinal (1A vs 2B, 1B vs 2A)

Sunday, 31 of August: Final

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


Chieti writes down the 9th place for Ukraine U16, Latvia 10th - by Eurobasket News
Latvia U16- Ukraine U16 68:73

Ukraine U16 finished on the 9th spot at the Termosteps U16 European Championship Men. In their last game of the tournament the team beat Latvia U16 73:68. Vyacheslav Bobrov (201-F-92) led the winners with 22 points and 14 rebounds. Olexandr Mishula (185-G-92) nailed 16, whilst Marchenko added 10. Davis Bertans (200-F-92) top-scored in defeat with 17 points, while Andris Misters (192-G-92) and Edmunds Dukulis (201-F/C-92) posted 10 apiece.
There was no favorite in this game and both squads wanted to finish the campaign truthfully. Latvia won the opening tip 14:6 as Davis Bertans made a jump-shot. Ukraine did not give up and Motorchuk lifted Ukraine to 20:18 after the first. Ukraine played a bit better in the second period and Olexandr Mishula closed the half for 39:34.
Olexandr Mishula scored again for 50:36, the biggest lead of his team in the game. Vyacheslav Bobrov remained Ukraine in front for 56:48 after three quarters. Latvia had the last chance to stay in the game and cut the deficit to 61:63. Ukraine stayed tough and set up the final, 73:68 win for the 9th spot in Italy. Latvia will go home with 10th position but will also remain in Division A for the next year.

Latvia U16: Davis Bertans 17, Andris Misters 10, Edmunds Dukulis 10+10 rebs
Ukraine U16: Vyacheslav Bobrov 22+14 rebs, Olexandr Mishula 16, Marchenko 10

*****************************************************
  UNITED KINGDOM   


U16 EC, division B: England edges Switzerland for 11th place in Sarajevo - by Eurobasket News
U16 England - U16 Switzerland 56-53

England ended U16 European Championship on 11th place. The British were better than Switzerland in the last day of the competition mostly owing to great last quarter. Twelfth place in Sarajevo belongs to Switzerland.

It was interesting game until the very end. England was better in first 20-16 while Switzerland shined in the second quarter 6-13. Third one was totally leveled meaning that Switzerland had 39-42 before the last frame. Very soon England tied the score and later through John Gould grabbed 48-42. With 4 minutes to go it was 53-46 but then Stefan Petkovic stepped up in Switzerland leading 7-0 run for his team, 53-53. Almost three minutes after that neither team succeeded to net any point. Actually Switzerland stayed without it until the end of the game while England got one free throw and a lay-up from Matthew Clark, what was enough for the win.

Aaron Geramipoor was the key player for England in this game. He recorded double-double, 13 points and 11 rebounds. John Gould also had 13 points for the winning team. Stefan Petkovic once again was the best in Switzerland. Tthis time he added 14 points and 6 boards. Milos Bozovic had 11 points and 6 rebounds.


U16 England - U16 Switzerland 56-53
(20-16, 6-13, 13-13, 17-11)

England: Aaron Geramipoor 13 (11 rebs), John Gould 13
Switzerland: Stefan Petkovic 14 (6 rebs), Milos Bozovic 11 (6 rebs)

U16 EC, division B: Estonia smashes England in the last frame - by Eurobasket News
U16 Estonia - U16 England 65-46

Estonia demonstrated much better performance than England in the first game of Classification Round for 9th to 12th place. Once again thanks to Rannar Raap, Estonians made an easy victory which allows them to fight against the Belgium for position number nine. England will try to reach 11th place and its opponent will be Switzerland.

England succeeded to register better digits only in third quarter, 14-16. Rannar Raap was in a game mood and he was a real enigma for the British. His penetrations gave a real headache to England's head coach. Estonia ended first ten minutes 12-8 and the next one 17-13. Devon Van Oostrum woke up in third quarter helping his team to come on minus 6 before the last quarter. Rannar Raap was the clutch player of Estonia leading 11-3 run for comfortable 54-40 for his team. England couldn't recover from it for the rest of the time making this job even easier to Estonia.

Rannar Raap recorded double-double, 27 points, 10 rebounds and 6 assists playing almost the entire time. Jaan Puidet (185-G-92) helped the wining side with 10 points and 7 boards. Devon Van Oostrum was the best player in England adding 16 points and 4 assists. Aaron Geramipoor was the last one with double figures having 10 points including 7 rebounds.


U16 Estonia - U16 England 65-46
(12-8, 17-13, 14-16, 22-9)

Estonia: Rannar Raap 27 (10 rebs, 6 as), Jaan Puidet 10 (7 rebs)
England: Devon Van Oostrum 16 (4 as), Aaron Geramipoor 10 (7 rebs)

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


LNB 2008 - Week 1: Duros sweeps Caciques, Apure and Graneros win - by Francisco Vega

Barquisimeto, Venezuela.- Duros de Lara completed a sweep over Caciques de Trujillo at home, 87-77, to finish Week 1 of the 2008 edition of Liga Nacional de Baloncesto (LNB) tied at the top of the standings and undefeated, while Graneros de Portuguesa defeated expansion franchise Petroleros de Falcon 78-64 in Guanare and Centauros de Apure, coming back after a few years out of the league, surprised Estudiantes de Guarico, 91-82, in San Juan de los Morros. No info on the second matches of this two latter series has been issued by the Venezuelan Basketball Federation (FVB) yet.

SCOREBOARDS

Duros de Lara 87 - Caciques de Trujillo 77
Napoleon Rodriguez Arena - Barquisimeto, Lara

Quarter by quarter
DUR: 16-23-21-27= 87
CAC: 13-25-18-21= 77

Scorers
DUR: Francisco Centeno (201-G/F-85) 16 points, Diego Guevara (184-G-77) 16 points, Kenji Urdaneta (188-G-85) 12 points, Jesus Centeno (190-G-85) 10 points, Derson Santos (197-F-84) 9 points, Francisco Sanabria (190-G-77) 8 points, Jackson Zapata (198-F-85) 6 points, Juan Herrera (197-F-81) 4 points, Heissler Guillent (191-G-86) 3 points, Carlos Quintero (202-F-85) 3 points, Grady Osorio (193-F-87) 0 points, Gerardo Chourio (-F-87) 0 points.
CAC: Michael Flores (192-G-85) 21 points, Nestor Moran 16 points, Manuel Berroteran (185-G-80) 10 points, Yorvis Umbria (203-F-85) 7 points, Ronald Guillen (206-C-84) 7 points, Edgar Arteaga (198-F-76) 7 points, Jose Yabichella 4 points, Cesar Musset (190-F-78) 3 points, Daniel Macuare (190-F-84) 2 points, Jairo Molina 0 points, Hector Alfaro 0 points, Windy Graterol (204-C-86) 0 points


Graneros de Portuguesa 78 - Petroleros de Falcon 64

Lara Figueroa Arena - Guanare, Portuguesa

Scorers
GRA: David Cedeno 16 points, Jhon Romero (199-F-85) 15 points, Johan Pinero 11 points

PET: Omar Mejias (175-G-80) 16 points, Jorge Leon 13 points, Jose Yovera 12 points

Centauros de Apure 81 - Estudiantes de Guarico 72
Roger Ramos Arena - San Juan de los Morros, Guarico

Scorers

APU: Elvis Montero 22 points

Graneros de Portuguesa sign John Strickland - by Eurobasket
Graneros de Portuguesa (LNB) strengthened their roster with addition of experienced 36-year old Dominican Rep. / American power forward John Strickland (203-F/C-72, college: Hawaii-Pacific). Strickland played most recently at Deportivo Tachira in LPB. he has huge experience playing basketball in 7 countries. However the most of his career he spent travelling between the States and Latin America.He is one of the players with the longest experience in ...Venezuela. He played there already 11 years ago for Toros de Aragua. His other country where he regularly was coming was Dominican Republic, which has various leagues in the summer. He player also in Korea, Jordan, Portugal and Serbia. Last season he played in CBA for Minot Skyrockets and then for Pittsburgh Xplosion, where he was selected for the CBA All-Star Game.

LNB 2008 - Week 1: Duros stars off strong, Cojedes wipes out Tiburones - by Francisco Vega

Barquisimeto, Venezuela.- Duros de Lara started its participation in the 2008 edition of Liga Nacional de Baloncesto with a 96-82 triumph over Caciques de Trujillo at Napoleon Rodriguez Arena of Barquisimeto, while Centauros de Cojedes completed a sweep at home over Tiburones de Vargas with a 87-77 in San Carlos.



SCOREBOARDS

Duros de Lara 96 - Caciques de Trujillo 82
Napoleon Rodriguez Arena - Barquisimeto, Lara

Quarter by quarter
DUR: 20-34-19-23= 96
CAC: 23-20-11-28= 82

Scorers
DUR: Jesus Centeno (190-G-85) 14 points, Diego Guevara (184-G-77) 12 points, Heissler Guillent (191-G-86) 12 points, Derson Santos (197-F-84) 12 points, Kenji Urdaneta (188-G-85) 12 points, Francisco Centeno (201-G/F-85) 10 points, Francisco Sanabria (190-G-77) 9 points, Jackson Zapata (198-F-85) 5 points, Juan Herrera (197-F-81) 4 points, Carlos Quintero (202-F-85) 4 points, Grady Osorio (193-F-87) 2 points, Gerardo Chourio (-F-87) 0 points.
CAC: Michael Flores (192-G-85) 25 points, Manuel Berroteran (185-G-80) 19 points, Yorvis Umbria (203-F-85) 10 points, Ronald Guillen (206-C-84) 9 points, Cesar Musset (190-F-78) 5 points, Daniel Macuare (190-F-84) 2 points, Jose Yabichella 2 points, Edgar Arteaga (198-F-76) 2 points, Jairo Molina 0 points, Hector Alfaro 0 points, Windy Graterol (204-C-86) 0 points


Centauros de Cojedes 87 - Tiburones de Vargas 77
Olympic Village Arena - San Carlos, Cojedes

Quarter by quarter
COJ: 16-19-28-24= 87
TIB: 23-14-19-21= 77

Scorers
COJ: Ruben Pachano (185-G-76) 21 points, Henry Caten (201-F-80) 11 points, Darwin Jaramillo (192-F-86) 11 points
TIB: Dennis D'Adezzio (191-G-81) 20 points, Leonardo Berroteran (192-F/G-81) 16 points



Standings - LNB
LNB Standings
 1. Duros 2-0 
 2. Cojedes 2-0 
 3. Graneros 1-0 
 4. Centauros 1-0 
 5. Estudiantes 0-1 
 6. Falcon 0-1 
 7. Trujillo 0-2 
 8. Tiburones 0-2 




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Women News

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  BOSNIA - Women  


Turkey stay undefeated in Group B - by Eurobasket News
Bosnia and Herzegovina - Turkey 65:86

Turkish National Team posted the third straight win at the EuroBasket Qualification in Group B. Yesterday they held off Bosnia and Herzegovina in Zenica to remain on top of the pool. The hosts suffered their third defeat in a row. Nevriye Yilmaz (195-C-80) sparked a stunning start for Turkey. She knocked down 9 points in the first period and Turkey registered a 26:14 advantage after ten minutes of action. Turkey remained cool in the second frame and maintained the margin. They arrived at the main break leading by 13 points. Bosnia tried to stay in contest as they shaved the distance to 11 points early in the third quarter. But Nevlin and Karsli established a 22-point heading into the fourth frame. The hosts never threaten the lead in the fourth term and had to give up at the end. Nevriye Yilmaz paced the winners with 18 points. Emine Tugba Palazoglu (174-G-80) added 14 points, while Karsli nailed 12 points for Turkey. Aida Pilav (187-C-87) topscored with 19 points and 7 boards for Bosnia and Herzegovina. Becirovic chipped in 14 points in a losing case. Turkey converted impressive 50% from the field, including 53% from beyond the arc. They forced the home team to 21 turnovers. Bosnia will next host Poland, while Turkey will travel to Italy on Wednesday.

Bosnia and Herzegovina: Aida Pilav 19, Becirovic 14
Turkey: Nevriye Yilmaz 18, Emine Tugba Palazoglu 14, Karsli 12

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  CROATIA - Women  


Croatia achieves the initial win in Group C - by Eurobasket News
Croatia-Slovak Republic 61:55 (14-9, 16-8, 16-12, 15-26)

Croatia achieved the initial win at the EuroBasket Women qualifying campaign. Last night the team overcame Slovak Republic 61:55 in Crikvenica. Mostly due to the first half the hosts improved to 2-1 record. Marta Cakic (175-G-82) paced all the winners with 16 points and 8 rebounds. Anda Jelavic (173-G-80) netted 14, while Ivankovic scored 8. Lucia Kupcikova (184-F-84) finished the game with 13 points and 7 rebounds, while Romana Vynuchalova (193-F/C-86) added 11.
Romana Vynuchalova scored for the guests as the latter could taste the only win in the first quarter. After 9-0 run the hosts finished with 14:9 after the first period. The things got even better for Croatia in the second quarter as they dominated the court. Having 24:17 the hosts increased to 30:17 after Ivankovic's free throw.
Croatia won the third quarter as well and had 46:29 after Hrickova's shot.
The hosts had led by as many as 14 points early in the second half, but the Slovak Republic kept chipping away, and Oravcova's three-pointer with made it 51:47. Romana Vynuchalova's lay-up brought the visitors to 54:53 with 3 minutes to play. Croatian Anda Jelavic however buried Slovak Republic in the end scoring the most important points of the game.

Croatia: Marta Cakic 16+8 rebs, Anda Jelavic 14, Ivankovic 8
Slovak Republic: Lucia Kupcikova 13+7 rebs, Romana Vynuchalova 11

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  CZECH REPUBLIC - Women  


Stats Leaders - Women
Trocal ZBL Stats Leaders
Points Per Game
1. Louden (SPA) 20.0
2. Vlkova (VAL) 16.8
3. Zohnova (TRU) 16.3
4. Wallace (KV) 15.4
5. Zirkova (GAM) 14.8
Rebounds Per Game
1 Magerciakova (KRL) 9.2
2 Svobodova (VAL) 9.0
3 Whitley (VAL) 8.2
4 Gerstnerova (STR) 7.6
5. Kohoutova (SPA) 7.6
Assists Per Game
1. Zirkova (GAM) 4.1
2. Hrabakova (SPA) 3.2
3. Louden (SPA) 2.9
4. Gaicintova (VAL) 2.6
5. Machova (GAM) 2.6
Steals Per Game
1. Machova (GAM) 3.5
2. Wallace (KV) 3.4
3. Medunova (Usti) 2.8
Blocks Per Game
1.Vodrážková (KV) 2,2
2.Kulichová (GAM) 1,8
3.Burse (USK) 1,5
2FGP
1. Beres (GAM) 64.6
2. Ferancikova (USK) 63.0
3. Viteckova (GAM) 62.2
3FGP
1. Mokrošová (USK) 50.8
2. Misurova (TRU) 46.9
3. Krizova (HRA) 43.7
Free Throws
1. Zirkova (GAM) 95.2
2. Mokrošová (USK) 94.4
3. Vesela (GAM) 93.3
Ranking
1. Louden (SPA) 22.8
2. Zirkova (GAM) 20.0
3. Whitley (VAL) 19.0
4. Ferancikova (USK) 18.0
5. Svobodova (VAL) 17.8


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  EUROPEAN CHAMPIONSHIPS - Women  


Division A. Qualifying Round. August 23 - by Eurobasket News
GROUP A
Israel - Ukraine 63:66

Ukrainian National Team ensured their third win at the 2009 EuroBasket Qualifying campaign yesterday. They defeated one of their main rivals in Group A Israel away from home to remain at helm of the pool. Israel meanwhile suffered their initial loss at the qualification and slipped to 1-2 record. Ukraine entered the game aggressively and built an 18:9 lead midway through the first period. But Shay Doron (175-G-85, college: Maryland) and Suez-Karni cut the deficit to 5 points after ten minutes of action. Yegorova and Olexandra Gorbunova (186-F-86) opened a double digit lead for the visitors early in the second frame. Soon the margin grew to massive 18 points as Ukraine looked too good for the hosts at the moment. However triples from Shay Doron and Cohen trimmed the deficit to 11 points at halftime. Shay Doron and Cohen continued their bombardment from downtown early in the third frame as the distance grew thinner. Ukraine stayed in front though and secured an 11-point buffer before the fourth term. Shay Doron, Fleischer and Cohen cut the gap to 5 points with under 2 minutes remaining. Olexandra Gorbunova nailed a free throw however Dori replied with a three-pointer to make it 61:64 with just over a minute remaining. Shay Doron than added two freebies as Israel came as close as one point with 41 seconds left. Later Shay Doron had two chances to save the game for the home team but missed layup and then was blocked by Alyoshkina. Biryuk followed it with two free throws to seal the victory for Ukraine.
Olexandra Gorbunova and Ogorodnikova had 18 points apiece for Ukraine. Yegorova secured 8 points for the winners. Shay Doron tallied game-high 22 points and 10 boards for Israel. Cohen added 18 points in defeat. Israel will now take on Great Britain away from home on Wednesday. Ukraine play their next game against Great Britain on Saturday.

Israel: Shay Doron 22+10 boards, Cohen 18
Ukraine: Olexandra Gorbunova 18, Ogorodnikova 18, Yegorova 8

Germany -Great Britain 59:61
Johannah Leedham (180-G/F-87) drained the jumper in the final seconds of the game to propel Great Britain past Germany yesterday. Great Britain thus secured the first win in Group A of the EuroBasket Qualification. The winners improved to 1-2 record, while sending Germany to 0-3. Germany were coming off a shocking loss to Ukraine in Kiev and hoped to rehabilitate themselves before the home fans. Breitreiner and Muller opened the game with two accurate three-pointers to set the hosts in front. Great Britain answered with an 8:0 rally to gain the lead. The visitors gradually gained the speed and closed the first period with a 6:0 surge to earn an 18:12 advantage. Great Britain tipped off the second quarter with a 7:0 rally to stretch the margin to 13 points. Great Britain kept rolling confidently and two trebles from Johannah Leedham gave them a 31:17 advantage. Breitreiner nailed 7 points in a 10:0 rally from German team early in the third quarter as they drew level at 31. However Jones, Johannah Leedham and Collins knocked down 8 consecutive points to regain the lead for the visiting side. Germany kept it close and trailed by just 3 points heading into the fourth stanza. Germany used a 10:2 rally in the fourth period to finally surge ahead 57:56 with just over 2 minutes left in the game. Moody answered with a three-pointer to reestablish Great Britain lead at 59:57. Germany set up the last shot for Koop and she tied the score at 59 with just 5 seconds remaining. But it was just enough for Johannah Leedham to drop a go-ahead jump shot and seal the win for the visitors.
Johannah Leedham secured 16 points and 6 rebounds for Great Britain. Collins had 11 points, while Jones added 10 points for the winners. Breitreiner replied with 24 points for Germany. Muller added 11 points in defeat. Germany visit Lithuania, while Great Britain host Israel on Wednesday.

Germany: Breitreiner 24, Muller 11
Great Britain: Johannah Leedham 16, Collins 11, Jones 10

GROUP B
Poland Finland 95:54
Polish National Team secured their second win at the EuroBasket Qualification yesterday. They scored a comfortable victory over visiting Finland to improve to 2-1 record in Group B. Finland meanwhile lost the third game in their campaign to slip to 1-3 record. Poland opened the game with three straight trifectas from Miedzik and Bibrzycka to jump ahead. The hosts overwhelmed their opponents in the starting period to enjoy a 28:13 lead. Poland went on a 13:0 run late in the second frame to pile up a 27-point cushion. Finland failed to change the complexion of the game in the third stanza. Poland looked too good for them and easily took off to a 30+ advantage. The hosts cruised to the victory in the fourth stanza. Daria Mieloszynska (188-F-83, college: Texas) and Walich led balanced offense with 12 points each. Bibrzycka and Miedzik added 11 points apiece for the winners. Tiina Sten (185-G/F-85) answered with 15 points for Finland. Minna Sten contributed 10 points in defeat. Poland forced Finland to 24 turnovers and outrebounded their opponents 29:22. Finland will next take on Bosnia and Herzegovina on August 30. Poland visit Bosnia and Herzegovina next Wednesday.

Poland: Daria Mieloszynska 12, Walich 12, Bibrzycka 11, Miedzik 11
Finland: Tiina Sten 15, Minna Sten 10

Bosnia and Herzegovina - Turkey 65:86
Turkish National Team posted the third straight win at the EuroBasket Qualification in Group B. Yesterday they held off Bosnia and Herzegovina in Zenica to remain on top of the pool. The hosts suffered their third defeat in a row. Nevriye Yilmaz (195-C-80) sparked a stunning start for Turkey. She knocked down 9 points in the first period and Turkey registered a 26:14 advantage after ten minutes of action. Turkey remained cool in the second frame and maintained the margin. They arrived at the main break leading by 13 points. Bosnia tried to stay in contest as they shaved the distance to 11 points early in the third quarter. But Nevlin and Karsli established a 22-point heading into the fourth frame. The hosts never threaten the lead in the fourth term and had to give up at the end. Nevriye Yilmaz paced the winners with 18 points. Palazoglu added 14 points, while Karsli nailed 12 points for Turkey. Aida Pilav (187-C-87) topscored with 19 points and 7 boards for Bosnia and Herzegovina. Becirovic chipped in 14 points in a losing case. Turkey converted impressive 50% from the field, including 53% from beyond the arc. They forced the home team to 21 turnovers. Bosnia will next host Poland, while Turkey will travel to Italy on Wednesday.

Bosnia and Herzegovina: Aida Pilav 19, Becirovic 14
Turkey: Nevriye Yilmaz 18, Palazoglu 14, Karsli 12

GROUP C
Croatia-Slovak Republic 61:55
Croatia achieved the initial win at the EuroBasket Women qualifying campaign. Last night the team overcame Slovak Republic 61:55 in Crikvenica. Mostly due to the first half the hosts improved to 2-1 record. Marta Cakic (175-G-82) paced all the winners with 16 points and 8 rebounds. Anda Jelavic (173-G-80) netted 14, while Ivankovic scored 8. Lucia Kupcikova (184-F-84) finished the game with 13 points and 7 rebounds, while Romana Vynuchalova (193-F/C-86) added 11.
Romana Vynuchalova scored for the guests as the latter could taste the only win in the first quarter. After 9-0 run the hosts finished with 14:9 after the first period. The things got even better for Croatia in the second quarter as they dominated the court. Having 24:17 the hosts increased to 30:17 after Ivankovic's free throw.
Croatia won the third quarter as well and had 46:29 after Hrickova's shot.
The hosts had led by as many as 14 points early in the second half, but the Slovak Republic kept chipping away, and Oravcova's three-pointer with made it 51:47. Romana Vynuchalova's lay-up brought the visitors to 54:53 with 3 minutes to play. Croatian Anda Jelavic however buried Slovak Republic in the end scoring the most important points of the game.

Croatia: Marta Cakic 16+8 rebs, Anda Jelavic 14, Ivankovic 8
Slovak Republic: Lucia Kupcikova 13+7 rebs, Romana Vynuchalova 11

Romania-Hungary 46:59
Hungary celebrated the first win after three games played in EuroBasket Women qualifying campaign. The team had a road win over Romania in Medias 46:59. A strong first half was enough to reach the initial win in Group C. Anna Vajda (191-F/C-84) led the winners with 18 points and 13 rebounds. Petra Ujhelyi (192-C-80, college: S.Carolina) netted 13, while Nora Bujdoso (188-F-85) collected 9 points and 13 rebounds. Simina Mandache (184-F-81) top-scored for the hosts with 17 points and Maria Pascalau (194-C-82) added 10.
Hungary won the opening tip of the game and did not mind playing abroad. After 2:2 the guests produced 9-0 run for 11:2 lead. Nora Bujdoso closed the first period at 18:7. They continued to pour it on and a 12-2 run that extended into the second period put them in apparently total command at 25:9. Honti sent the teams to the lockers with a jump-shot for 36:17.
Romania did not fall apart and created 18:14 in the third period. Petra Ujhelyi's two saw the margin at 35:50 for the visitors. Even though the hosts won also the last period it was not enough to stay in front. Hungary achieved a road win that lifted them to 1-2 record, the same that Romania has as well.

Romania: Simina Mandache 17, Maria Pascalau 10
Hungary: Anna Vajda 18+13 rebs, Petra Ujhelyi 13, Nora Bujdoso 9+13 rebs


Standings - Women
Standings
Group A
1. Ukraine3-1
2. Israel2-1
3. Lithuania2-1
4. U.Kingdom1-2
5. Germany0-3
Group B
1. Turkey3-0
2. Italy2-1
3. Poland2-1
4. Finland1-3
5. Bosnia0-3
Group C
1. France3-0
2. Slovakia2-2
3. Hungary1-2
4. Romania1-2
5. Croatia1-2
Group D
1. Belgium0-0
2. Bulgaria0-0
3. Greece0-0
4. Serbia0-0


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  FINLAND - Women  


Poland crush Finland in Leszno - by Eurobasket News
Poland Finland 95:54

Polish National Team secured their second win at the EuroBasket Qualification yesterday. They scored a comfortable victory over visiting Finland to improve to 2-1 record in Group B. Finland meanwhile lost the third game in their campaign to slip to 1-3 record. Poland opened the game with three straight trifectas from Miedzik and Bibrzycka to jump ahead. The hosts overwhelmed their opponents in the starting period to enjoy a 28:13 lead. Poland went on a 13:0 run late in the second frame to pile up a 27-point cushion. Finland failed to change the complexion of the game in the third stanza. Poland looked too good for them and easily took off to a 30+ advantage. The hosts cruised to the victory in the fourth stanza. Mieloszynska and Walich led balanced offense with 12 points each. Bibrzycka and Miedzik added 11 points apiece for the winners. Tiina Sten answered with 15 points for Finland. Minna Sten contributed 10 points in defeat. Poland forced Finland to 24 turnovers and outrebounded their opponents 29:22. Finland will next take on Bosnia and Herzegovina on August 30. Poland visit Bosnia and Herzegovina next Wednesday.

Poland: Mieloszynska 12, Walich 12, Bibrzycka 11, Miedzik 11
Finland: Tiina Sten 15, Minna Sten 10


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  GERMANY - Women  


Great Britain eke out win against Germany - by Eurobasket News
Germany Great Britain 59:61

Johannah Leedham drained the jumper in the final seconds of the game to propel Great Britain past Germany yesterday. Great Britain thus secured the first win in Group A of the EuroBasket Qualification. The winners improved to 1-2 record, while sending Germany to 0-3. Germany were coming off a shocking loss to Ukraine in Kiev and hoped to rehabilitate themselves before the home fans. Breitreiner and Muller opened the game with two accurate three-pointers to set the hosts in front. Great Britain answered with an 8:0 rally to gain the lead. The visitors gradually gained the speed and closed the first period with a 6:0 surge to earn an 18:12 advantage. Great Britain tipped off the second quarter with a 7:0 rally to stretch the margin to 13 points. Great Britain kept rolling confidently and two trebles from Johannah Leedham gave them a 31:17 advantage. Breitreiner nailed 7 points in a 10:0 rally from German team early in the third quarter as they drew level at 31. However Jones, Johannah Leedham and Collins knocked down 8 consecutive points to regain the lead for the visiting side. Germany kept it close and trailed by just 3 points heading into the fourth stanza. Germany used a 10:2 rally in the fourth period to finally surge ahead 57:56 with just over 2 minutes left in the game. Moody answered with a three-pointer to reestablish Great Britain lead at 59:57. Germany set up the last shot for Koop and she tied the score at 59 with just 5 seconds remaining. But it was just enough for Johannah Leedham to drop a go-ahead jump shot and seal the win for the visitors.
Johannah Leedham secured 16 points and 6 rebounds for Great Britain. Collins had 11 points, while Jones added 10 points for the winners. Breitreiner replied with 24 points for Germany. Muller added 11 points in defeat. Germany visit Lithuania, while Great Britain host Israel on Wednesday.

Germany: Breitreiner 24, Muller 11
Great Britain: Johannah Leedham 16, Collins 11, Jones 10


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  HUNGARY - Women  


Hungary celebrates the first win - by Eurobasket News
Romania-Hungary 46:59 (7-18, 10-18, 18-14, 11-9)

Hungary celebrated the first win after three games played in EuroBasket Women qualifying campaign. The team had a road win over Romania in Medias 46:59. A strong first half was enough to reach the initial win in Group C. Anna Vajda (191-F/C-84) led the winners with 18 points and 13 rebounds. Petra Ujhelyi (192-C-80, college: S.Carolina) netted 13, while Nora Bujdoso (188-F-85) collected 9 points and 13 rebounds. Simina Mandache (184-F-81) top-scored for the hosts with 17 points and Maria Pascalau (194-C-82) added 10.
Hungary won the opening tip of the game and did not mind playing abroad. After 2:2 the guests produced 9-0 run for 11:2 lead. Nora Bujdoso closed the first period at 18:7. They continued to pour it on and a 12-2 run that extended into the second period put them in apparently total command at 25:9. Honti sent the teams to the lockers with a jump-shot for 36:17.
Romania did not fall apart and created 18:14 in the third period. Petra Ujhelyi's two saw the margin at 35:50 for the visitors. Even though the hosts won also the last period it was not enough to stay in front. Hungary achieved a road win that lifted them to 1-2 record, the same that Romania has as well.

Romania: Simina Mandache 17, Maria Pascalau 10
Hungary: Anna Vajda 18+13 rebs, Petra Ujhelyi 13, Nora Bujdoso 9+13 rebs

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  ISRAEL - Women  


Ukraine consolidate their position in EuroBasket Qualification - by Eurobasket News
Israel - Ukraine 63:66

Ukrainian National Team ensured their third win at the 2009 EuroBasket Qualifying campaign yesterday. They defeated one of their main rivals in Group A Israel away from home to remain at helm of the pool. Israel meanwhile suffered their initial loss at the qualification and slipped to 1-2 record. Ukraine entered the game aggressively and built an 18:9 lead midway through the first period. But Shay Doron (175-G-85, college: Maryland) and Suez-Karni cut the deficit to 5 points after ten minutes of action. Yegorova and Olexandra Gorbunova (186-F-86) opened a double digit lead for the visitors early in the second frame. Soon the margin grew to massive 18 points as Ukraine looked too good for the hosts at the moment. However triples from Shay Doron and Cohen trimmed the deficit to 11 points at halftime. Shay Doron and Cohen continued their bombardment from downtown early in the third frame as the distance grew thinner. Ukraine stayed in front though and secured an 11-point buffer before the fourth term. Shay Doron, Fleischer and Cohen cut the gap to 5 points with under 2 minutes remaining. Olexandra Gorbunova nailed a free throw however Dori replied with a three-pointer to make it 61:64 with just over a minute remaining. Shay Doron than added two freebies as Israel came as close as one point with 41 seconds left. Later Shay Doron had two chances to save the game for the home team but missed layup and then was blocked by Alyoshkina. Biryuk followed it with two free throws to seal the victory for Ukraine.
Olexandra Gorbunova and Olena Ogorodnikova (186-F-81) had 18 points apiece for Ukraine. Yegorova secured 8 points for the winners. Shay Doron tallied game-high 22 points and 10 boards for Israel. Cohen added 18 points in defeat. Israel will now take on Great Britain away from home on Wednesday. Ukraine play their next game against Great Britain on Saturday.

Israel: Shay Doron 22+10 boards, Cohen 18
Ukraine: Olexandra Gorbunova 18, Olena Ogorodnikova 18, Yegorova 8

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  OLYMPIC GAMES - Women  


Stats Leaders
anananan

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  POLAND - Women  


Poland crush Finland in Leszno - by Eurobasket News
Poland Finland 95:54

Polish National Team secured their second win at the EuroBasket Qualification yesterday. They scored a comfortable victory over visiting Finland to improve to 2-1 record in Group B. Finland meanwhile lost the third game in their campaign to slip to 1-3 record. Poland opened the game with three straight trifectas from Miedzik and Bibrzycka to jump ahead. The hosts overwhelmed their opponents in the starting period to enjoy a 28:13 lead. Poland went on a 13:0 run late in the second frame to pile up a 27-point cushion. Finland failed to change the complexion of the game in the third stanza. Poland looked too good for them and easily took off to a 30+ advantage. The hosts cruised to the victory in the fourth stanza. Mieloszynska and Walich led balanced offense with 12 points each. Bibrzycka and Miedzik added 11 points apiece for the winners. Tiina Sten answered with 15 points for Finland. Minna Sten contributed 10 points in defeat. Poland forced Finland to 24 turnovers and outrebounded their opponents 29:22. Finland will next take on Bosnia and Herzegovina on August 30. Poland visit Bosnia and Herzegovina next Wednesday.

Poland: Mieloszynska 12, Walich 12, Bibrzycka 11, Miedzik 11
Finland: Tiina Sten 15, Minna Sten 10


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  PORTUGAL - Women  


CAB signs foreign player - by Luis Rocha
CAB set eyes on Ebony Twiggs, and get her to be their ansewr in the painted area. Twiggs comes with nice figures, and ready to make some impact as a center. Shes 25 years old, and got 1,92 of height, CAB has some problems there since last season, because many injuries affect many players who play there in that position. They hope to strike gold with Twiggs, and obviously they also hope that this season the injury problem in their center player wont happen again.

Boa Viagem finds a new forward - by Luis Rocha
B: Viagem has find a forward outside Portugal. They set contract with , a brasilian player who comes very well spoken. She will be the second foreign player of the team, and comes to made points in the perimeter. She can drive to the basket and shoots very well from outside, above all , she can really assume the game as a key player.The roste in B.Viagem is getting very strong, they once again will be a though contender in the competition for the title.

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  ROMANIA - Women  


Hungary celebrates the first win - by Eurobasket News
Romania-Hungary 46:59 (7-18, 10-18, 18-14, 11-9)

Hungary celebrated the first win after three games played in EuroBasket Women qualifying campaign. The team had a road win over Romania in Medias 46:59. A strong first half was enough to reach the initial win in Group C. Anna Vajda (191-F/C-84) led the winners with 18 points and 13 rebounds. Petra Ujhelyi (192-C-80, college: S.Carolina) netted 13, while Nora Bujdoso (188-F-85) collected 9 points and 13 rebounds. Simina Mandache (184-F-81) top-scored for the hosts with 17 points and Maria Pascalau (194-C-82) added 10.
Hungary won the opening tip of the game and did not mind playing abroad. After 2:2 the guests produced 9-0 run for 11:2 lead. Nora Bujdoso closed the first period at 18:7. They continued to pour it on and a 12-2 run that extended into the second period put them in apparently total command at 25:9. Honti sent the teams to the lockers with a jump-shot for 36:17.
Romania did not fall apart and created 18:14 in the third period. Petra Ujhelyi's two saw the margin at 35:50 for the visitors. Even though the hosts won also the last period it was not enough to stay in front. Hungary achieved a road win that lifted them to 1-2 record, the same that Romania has as well.

Romania: Simina Mandache 17, Maria Pascalau 10
Hungary: Anna Vajda 18+13 rebs, Petra Ujhelyi 13, Nora Bujdoso 9+13 rebs

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  SLOVAKIA - Women  


Croatia achieves the initial win in Group C - by Eurobasket News
Croatia-Slovak Republic 61:55 (14-9, 16-8, 16-12, 15-26)

Croatia achieved the initial win at the EuroBasket Women qualifying campaign. Last night the team overcame Slovak Republic 61:55 in Crikvenica. Mostly due to the first half the hosts improved to 2-1 record. Marta Cakic (175-G-82) paced all the winners with 16 points and 8 rebounds. Anda Jelavic (173-G-80) netted 14, while Ivankovic scored 8. Lucia Kupcikova (184-F-84) finished the game with 13 points and 7 rebounds, while Romana Vynuchalova (193-F/C-86) added 11.
Romana Vynuchalova scored for the guests as the latter could taste the only win in the first quarter. After 9-0 run the hosts finished with 14:9 after the first period. The things got even better for Croatia in the second quarter as they dominated the court. Having 24:17 the hosts increased to 30:17 after Ivankovic's free throw.
Croatia won the third quarter as well and had 46:29 after Hrickova's shot.
The hosts had led by as many as 14 points early in the second half, but the Slovak Republic kept chipping away, and Oravcova's three-pointer with made it 51:47. Romana Vynuchalova's lay-up brought the visitors to 54:53 with 3 minutes to play. Croatian Anda Jelavic however buried Slovak Republic in the end scoring the most important points of the game.

Croatia: Marta Cakic 16+8 rebs, Anda Jelavic 14, Ivankovic 8
Slovak Republic: Lucia Kupcikova 13+7 rebs, Romana Vynuchalova 11

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  TURKEY - Women  


Turkey stay undefeated in Group B - by Eurobasket News
Bosnia and Herzegovina - Turkey 65:86

Turkish National Team posted the third straight win at the EuroBasket Qualification in Group B. Yesterday they held off Bosnia and Herzegovina in Zenica to remain on top of the pool. The hosts suffered their third defeat in a row. Nevriye Yilmaz (195-C-80) sparked a stunning start for Turkey. She knocked down 9 points in the first period and Turkey registered a 26:14 advantage after ten minutes of action. Turkey remained cool in the second frame and maintained the margin. They arrived at the main break leading by 13 points. Bosnia tried to stay in contest as they shaved the distance to 11 points early in the third quarter. But Nevlin and Karsli established a 22-point heading into the fourth frame. The hosts never threaten the lead in the fourth term and had to give up at the end. Nevriye Yilmaz paced the winners with 18 points. Emine Tugba Palazoglu (174-G-80) added 14 points, while Karsli nailed 12 points for Turkey. Aida Pilav (187-C-87) topscored with 19 points and 7 boards for Bosnia and Herzegovina. Becirovic chipped in 14 points in a losing case. Turkey converted impressive 50% from the field, including 53% from beyond the arc. They forced the home team to 21 turnovers. Bosnia will next host Poland, while Turkey will travel to Italy on Wednesday.

Bosnia and Herzegovina: Aida Pilav 19, Becirovic 14
Turkey: Nevriye Yilmaz 18, Emine Tugba Palazoglu 14, Karsli 12

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  UKRAINE - Women  


Ukraine consolidate their position in EuroBasket Qualification - by Eurobasket News
Israel - Ukraine 63:66

Ukrainian National Team ensured their third win at the 2009 EuroBasket Qualifying campaign yesterday. They defeated one of their main rivals in Group A Israel away from home to remain at helm of the pool. Israel meanwhile suffered their initial loss at the qualification and slipped to 1-2 record. Ukraine entered the game aggressively and built an 18:9 lead midway through the first period. But Shay Doron (175-G-85, college: Maryland) and Suez-Karni cut the deficit to 5 points after ten minutes of action. Yegorova and Olexandra Gorbunova (186-F-86) opened a double digit lead for the visitors early in the second frame. Soon the margin grew to massive 18 points as Ukraine looked too good for the hosts at the moment. However triples from Shay Doron and Cohen trimmed the deficit to 11 points at halftime. Shay Doron and Cohen continued their bombardment from downtown early in the third frame as the distance grew thinner. Ukraine stayed in front though and secured an 11-point buffer before the fourth term. Shay Doron, Fleischer and Cohen cut the gap to 5 points with under 2 minutes remaining. Olexandra Gorbunova nailed a free throw however Dori replied with a three-pointer to make it 61:64 with just over a minute remaining. Shay Doron than added two freebies as Israel came as close as one point with 41 seconds left. Later Shay Doron had two chances to save the game for the home team but missed layup and then was blocked by Alyoshkina. Biryuk followed it with two free throws to seal the victory for Ukraine.
Olexandra Gorbunova and Olena Ogorodnikova (186-F-81) had 18 points apiece for Ukraine. Yegorova secured 8 points for the winners. Shay Doron tallied game-high 22 points and 10 boards for Israel. Cohen added 18 points in defeat. Israel will now take on Great Britain away from home on Wednesday. Ukraine play their next game against Great Britain on Saturday.

Israel: Shay Doron 22+10 boards, Cohen 18
Ukraine: Olexandra Gorbunova 18, Olena Ogorodnikova 18, Yegorova 8

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  UNITED KINGDOM - Women  


Great Britain eke out win against Germany - by Eurobasket News
Germany Great Britain 59:61

Johannah Leedham drained the jumper in the final seconds of the game to propel Great Britain past Germany yesterday. Great Britain thus secured the first win in Group A of the EuroBasket Qualification. The winners improved to 1-2 record, while sending Germany to 0-3. Germany were coming off a shocking loss to Ukraine in Kiev and hoped to rehabilitate themselves before the home fans. Breitreiner and Muller opened the game with two accurate three-pointers to set the hosts in front. Great Britain answered with an 8:0 rally to gain the lead. The visitors gradually gained the speed and closed the first period with a 6:0 surge to earn an 18:12 advantage. Great Britain tipped off the second quarter with a 7:0 rally to stretch the margin to 13 points. Great Britain kept rolling confidently and two trebles from Johannah Leedham gave them a 31:17 advantage. Breitreiner nailed 7 points in a 10:0 rally from German team early in the third quarter as they drew level at 31. However Jones, Johannah Leedham and Collins knocked down 8 consecutive points to regain the lead for the visiting side. Germany kept it close and trailed by just 3 points heading into the fourth stanza. Germany used a 10:2 rally in the fourth period to finally surge ahead 57:56 with just over 2 minutes left in the game. Moody answered with a three-pointer to reestablish Great Britain lead at 59:57. Germany set up the last shot for Koop and she tied the score at 59 with just 5 seconds remaining. But it was just enough for Johannah Leedham to drop a go-ahead jump shot and seal the win for the visitors.
Johannah Leedham secured 16 points and 6 rebounds for Great Britain. Collins had 11 points, while Jones added 10 points for the winners. Breitreiner replied with 24 points for Germany. Muller added 11 points in defeat. Germany visit Lithuania, while Great Britain host Israel on Wednesday.

Germany: Breitreiner 24, Muller 11
Great Britain: Johannah Leedham 16, Collins 11, Jones 10