Eurobasket Daily News Report:

EUROBASKET NEWS REPORT - 8/29/2008

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Men News

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ARGENTINA

Liga A 2008/09 official domestic rosters: part 4 - by Facundo Iatzky
QUILMES Mar del Plata
Pablo Gil (188-G-78)
Hernando Salles (188-G-79)
Maximiliano Maciel (197-F-83)
Ezequiel Dentis (206-C-82)
Esteban Lopez (184-G-84)
Nicolas Romano (197-F/C-87)
Dragan Capitanich (191-G-90)
Facundo Pinero (199-G/F-88, agency: Interperformances)
Nahuel Jerez (182-G-89)
Federico Aldama (198-C)
Youngster team players: Maximiliano Iturrioz (185-F-92), Guillermo Subeldia (199-F-92)
Head Coach: Esteban De la Fuente

QUIMSA
Julio Mazzaro (186-G-79)
Gabriel Mikulas (201-F-80, agency: Interperformances, college: E.Carolina)
Jonathan Treise (186-G-85)
Victor Hugo Cajal (179-G-80)
Juan Manuel Torres (208-C-84)
Federico Mansilla (190-G-87)
Miguel Gerlero (192-G-88)
Mauricio Zanni
Martin Balteiro
Nahuel Melian
Rafael Adaro (200-F/C-90)
Head Coach: Fernando Duro

REGATAS Corrientes
Roberto Lopez (199-F/C-76)
Damian Tintorelli (202-C-81, agency: Players Group)
Luis Cequeira (180-G-85)
Sebastian Acosta (178-G-82)
Federico Kammerichs (203-F-80)
Alejandro Montecchia (180-G-72, agency: Interperformances)
Mariano Fierro (200-F-86)
Milton Temute (202-F/C-88)
Alejo Montes (186-G-91)
Nestor Serantes
Youngster team players: Damian Pineda, Victor Rojas
Head Coach: Silvio Santander

SIONISTA
Juan Pablo Cantero (186-G-82)
Daniel Hure (200-F-85)
Eduardo Villares (186-G-79)
Alejandro Burgos (206-C/F-78)
Matias Fioretti (199-G/F-84)
Pablo Rizzo (200-F/C-84)
Augustin Carnovale (195-G-86)
Ramiro Iglesias (186-G-90)
Juan Carlos Bergel
Edgardo Torne
Youngster team players: Lucas Machuca, Valentin Marchisio
Head Coach: Sebastian Svetliza

National League Unveils New Logo - by Leonardo Contieri
The basketball clubs association (AdC) announced they have adopted a new corporative image to start the new season which will be its 25th.
League's president Eduardo Bazzi explained that the new logo will try to show a modern image trying to reach out for new fans and giving a prominent presence to the most importants parts of the league, the clubs that take part on it and making it clearer that is a basketball tournament.

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ASIAN CHAMPIONSHIPS U18

Day 1 results and stats - by Eurobasket News
The 20th Edition of the FIBA Asia Junior Championship started in Iran and will be held from August 28 through September 5. The tourney will enjoy the participation of fifteen teams. They were divided into 4 preliminary groups. China, Japan, Hong Kong and India got into Group A. Group B comprised South Korea, Saudi Arabia, Kazakhstan and Syria. Chinese Taipei, Philippines, UAE and Lebanon got into Group C. Finally hosting Iran, Malaysia, Jordan and made up for Group D. China celebrated the victory in the 19th edition of the competition held in Urumqi City.

GROUP A
China beat Hong Kong 115:61 in its opening contest in Group A of the FIBA Asia Under-18 championship. Li Xiaoxu (204-C-90) led the winners with 17 points. Liu Shunan netted 15, while Zhao HongWei (192-G) and Wang Zheng (216-C-90) added 14 each and Yu Shulong scored 13. Yuen Ka Ho ended up with 9 points in the losing effort. China led 27:15 after one quarter, 55:22 at the half, and 88:42 after three quarters. Liu Shunan, a 200 cm small forward from Liaoning did not play in China's loss to Taiwan in Manila. Wang Zheng, the 216 center and the player who has the most NBA potential on the team, scored 14 points as did Zhao HongWei.
Japan U18 opened the FIBA Asia U18 Championship for Junior Men with a tough win over India. The 20th Edition of the FIBA Asia Junior Championship started in Iran and will be held from August 28 through September 5. China, Japan, Hong Kong and India got into Group A. China celebrated the victory in the 19th edition of the competition held in Urumqi City. The final score 96:71 over India might not describe the whole game as to be tough, but India struggled a lot. The latter won the opening quarter 30:22 and remained hot in the first hot. Japan bounced back in the second quarter and could take 43:42 after the first half. India however managed to score only 41 points in 30 minutes, that more or less summed up the tale of the game. Japan on the other hand began subdued, but grew in confidence and scoring rate as the match progressed to canter home. Kaito Ishikawa paced all the winners with 21 points. Makoto Hiejima scored 16 and Yusuke Karino posted 13. Vishesh Bhriguvanshi ended up with 22 points in defeat and Sunil Rathee added 13.

Japan U18- India U18 96:71
Japan U18: Kenta Tateyama 21, Makoto Hiejima 16, Yusuke Karino 13
India U18: Vishesh Bhriguvanshi 22, Sunil Rathee 13

China U18 - Hong Kong U18 115:61
China U18: Li Xiaoxu 17, Liu Shunan 15, Zhao HongWei 14, Wang Zheng 14, Yu Shulong 13
Hong Kong U18:Yuen Ka Ho 9

GROUP B
Jordan opened their FIBA Asia U18 Championship for Junior Men with a win over Saudi Arabia in a Group B. Jordan celebrated 110:83 in the opener for both teams. An 18-4 through the midway of the first quarter proved good enough for Jordan to take a firm grip on the game. A position from where they only grew in strength. They led 62:37 after the half and moved to three digits in the end. Louay Obeidi was unstoppable with 37 points and Abdul Aziz added 18. Yazeed Fallatah posted 19 in defeat, while Seraaj Abuswyhel scored 14.
Jordan next take on Kazakhstan, who play Saudi Arabia later in the day. Should the Kazakhs beat Saudi Arabia tonight, their clash with Jordan on the morrow would be a virtual play-off to decide the second team to make the elite round from this group.
Korea U18 celebrated the win in the opener against Kazakhstan 65:62. Korea won the first two quarters but had difficulties in the third period. Kazakhstan pushed the tempo for 51:49 in the third period but Korea managed to win the last quarter and the game itself. Lim Jongill led the winners with 19 points while Jang Jaeseok added 13. Alexander Leodovskikh top-scored in the losing effort with 17 points. Anton Arsenyev netted 15 and Alexander Tyutyunik scored 11.

Jordan U18-Saudi Arabia U18 110:83
Jordan U18: Louay Obeidi 37, Abdul Aziz 18
Saudi Arabia: Yazeed Fallatah 19, Seraaj Abuswyhel 14

Korea U18-Kazakhstan U18 65:62
Korea U18: Lim Jongill 19, Jang Jaeseok 13
Kazakhstan U18: Alexander Leodovskikh 17, Anton Arsenyev 15, Alexander Tyutyunik 11

GROUP C
The most interesting game of the fist day of FIBA Asia U18 Championship for Junior Men was played between Philippines U18 and Chinese Taipei U18. Thanks to both teams the game was extended to two overtimes where only one point separated Philippines U18 from Chinese Taipei U18. The former champions survived a thriller to win 106:105. Philippines U18 easily won the first period and enjoyed 28:16 lead. It took more than three quarters for the last editions semifinalists to tie the game. The teams remained together at 88:88 and 96:96 entering the extra periods. Philippines went into the first overtime with four players ejected due to personal fouls and were even worse off at the start of the second extension with six forced to sit out. Gabriel Banal converted both his free-throws to seasl the win. Ryan Garcia led the winners with 18 points. Jaypee Mendoza netted 15, Ian Sangalang 14 and Matthew Wright together with Samuel Marata added 12 each. Lin Li-Jen top-scored in defeat with 14 and Lee Ming-Hui nailed 13.
Lebanon U18 being the third team in the previous championship opened their 20th edition of FIBA Asia U18 Championship for Junior Men with a win. The team overcame United Arab Emirates U18 76:61 in Group C. It was an easy start for the favorites that took 25:9 from the beginning. They increased to 36:18 entering the second half. After three quarters played the board showed 58:38 and it was clear that Lebanon U18 would benefit from the game. Ahmad Ibrahim paced all thew inners with 23 points and Hassan Matouk netted 13. Salah Khalifa Abdalla top-scored in the losing effort with 15 points.

Philippines U18-Chinese Taipei U18 106:105
Philippines U18: Ryan Garcia 18, Jaypee Mendoza 15, Ian Sangalang 14, Matthew Wright 12, Samuel Marata 12
Chinese Taipei U18: Lin Li-Jen 14, Lee Ming-Hui 13, Lai Kuo-Wei 12

Lebanon U18-UAE U18 76:61
Lebanon U18: Ahmad Ibrahim 23, Hassan Matouk 13
UAE U18: Salah Khalifa Abdalla 15

GROUP D
The hosts of FIBA Asia U18 Championship for Junior Men began their Group D campaign with a 102:61 win over Malaysia U18. The latter struggled a lot in the opening quarter but could not stay on track later in the game. Mehdi Shirjang led the winners with 22 points. Mohammad Amjad (190-G-90) netted 12 and Emad Salmani produced 11. Ong Chun Khee finished the game with 16 points for the guests and Kwaan Yoong Jing added 14.
The 20th Edition of the FIBA Asia Junior Championship started in Iran and will be held from August 28 through September 5. The tourney will enjoy the participation of fifteen teams. They were divided into 4 preliminary groups. China, Japan, Hong Kong and India got into Group A. Group B comprised South Korea, Saudi Arabia, Kazakhstan and Syria. Chinese Taipei, Philippines, UAE and Lebanon got into Group C. Finally hosting Iran, Malaysia, Jordan and made up for Group D. China celebrated the victory in the 19th edition of the competition held in Urumqi City.
Malaysia did a lot of running early in the game, led for a while in the first quarter before succumbing to the pressure applied by the hosts. Iran seized control towards the end of the first quarter and grew in strength as the game progressed. A 24:20 after the opening quarter was changed to 50:41 but still remained intrigue in the game. Only in the last period after 73:60 the hosts pushed the tempo to seal 102:61 victory.

Iran U18-Malaysia U18 102:61
Iran U18: Mehdi Shirjang 22, Mohammad Amjad 12, Emad Salmani 11
Malaysia U18: Ong Chun Khee 16, Kwaan Yoong Jing 14

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BELGIUM

D2 news - Falco Cup - by Peter Buyse

Falco Gent is organizing its Falco Cup for the 10th time this Sunday.
They were able to attrack 2 intersting team in Base Oostende and Generali Okapi Aalstar, together with top Dutch league Weert.
The Cup starts at 10am with Falco Gent vs Oostende, followed by Aalst vs Weert at noon.
Game for 3rd takes place at 15.00 and final at 17.00.
The tourmanemt takes place in the Bourgoyen gym in Gent.

Bree Transfer News - by Peter Buyse

After our earlier report that Kevin Reed (190-G-81, college: Maine) and Jeff Horner (191-G-83, college: Iowa) were back in Belgium, their team now announced the signing of both players.
Another addition to the Bree roster is former Liege forward Ryan Moss (200-F/C-74, college: UALR) with who the team also finished negotioations.
Moss played his whole career in Belgium for Liege. His best season was 2000-2001 when he averaged 13.9 ppg and 8.7.
This past season he played 22 games for Liege and averaged 4.2 ppg and 2.6 rpg in linited playing time.

The team is also still negotiating with Ed Norvell in view of the injury sustained by Jeff Horner in practise. Horner could be out for 6 to 8 weeks.

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BOSNIA

Zlatan Presic coach in Riga - by Sead Buljina
New coach and a supervisor for youth categories at ASK academy of BC Riga, Latvia is our Zlatan Presic. Presic has founded a basketball academy FinDo in Doboj, Bosnia then worked in Finland as a senior coach. Now, he`s moved just east to Latvia. 'There are many gifted players over here. They just need somebody to work with them. I`m happy and honorred to be here and work in ASK Academy Riga,' said Presic.

EFES World Cup: New BIH team easily crushed Portugal - by Nedzad Kladusak
Today Bosnia-Hercegovina started with an easy 83-64 victory against Portugal thus 'redeeming' the shame of Sarajevo when Portugal took a crucial victory and finally booked the ticket for Eurobasket in Spain.
BIH started with Gordic,Nihad Djedovic (198-G-90, agency: Beo Basket),Opacak, Bajramovic and Jazvin and particularly the powerful Mostar-native center Jazvin dominated under both paints.
However the Portugese netted a couple of threepointers establishing a 5 points lead.
But after the 15th minute Bosnia-H. played better and better and hitted a couple of threepointers. From that point on it became clear that Bosnia-Hercegovina
is too strong for Portugal. In the second half Nihad Nihad Djedovic, the 18year old SG of Barcelona turned out to be unstoppable for the portugese defense. He recorded 23 points in 28 minutes.
The entire team played very well showing that coach Bajramovic has got a very deep bench.
Tomorrow BIh will face GB while Portugal will play against Turkey.

BiH Portugal 83:64

BiH: Gordic 7, Opacak 6, Milosevic 8, Ikonic 4, Nesovic, Bremer 3, Jazvin 8, Kikanovic 2, Teletovic 10, Bavcic, Nihad Djedovic 23, Bajramovic 12.
Portugal: Macedo, Costa 2, B. Silva, Cunha 2, C. Silva 1, Coelho 4, Andrade 6, Marcal 13, Fernandes 18, Evora 7, Miranda, Santos 11

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CENTROBASKET

Standings (Men)

Standings

Group A
1. Mexico		2-0
2. Domin.R.		1-1
3. US V.Isl		1-1
4. El Salvado.		0-2
Group B
1. P.Rico		2-0
2. Cuba		1-1
3. Panama		1-1
4. Costa Rica.		0-2

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CHINA

China Blasts Hong Kong 115-61 to Open U-18 Tourney - by Arthur Volbert

China Blasts Hong Kong 115-61 to Open U-18 Tourney - by Arthur Volbert

China defeated Hong Kong 115-61 in its opening contest in Group A of hte 20th FIBA Asia Under-18 championship. Li Xiaoxu (204-C-90), who has played for the CBA Liaoning Pandas for three years and was on the preliminary roster of the Olympic team, led China with 17 points and 7 rebounds.

Li played on the team in the world Under-18 tourney last year and on the team that won the Asian Under-18 title in 2006. He has always been listed as born in 1990, unlike some other Chinese players whose birth dates seem to change from year to year. So it is possible that he is an early developer as his height has not changed since fall of 2005 and he had a slight mustache in the first picture of him that I saw.

China led 27-15 after one quarter, 55-22 at the half, and 88-42 after three quarters.

Liu Shunan, a 200 cm small forward from Liaoning, added 15 points. He also did not play in China's loss to Taiwan in Manila. Neither did Yu Shulong, who scored 13 points, and for whom I currently have no other information.

Wang Zheng, the 216 center and the player who has the most NBA potential on the team, scored 14 points as did Zhao Hongwei.

China coach Li Chunjiang did not read too much into the lop-sided result.

'This is the first game. So Im happy to start off with a win,' he said. 'But there were many areas where I was not satisfied. But the boys were playing the first competition game after a little more than a month in training. So I guess things will improve,' Li added.

All the Chinese players scored, with six of them in double digits.

In tragic note, most of the members of the Kyrgyzstan team were killed in a plane crash on their way to the tournament. The plane went down a couple of minutes after it took off from Bishket.

This is really a disastrous incident about a member of the FIBA Asia family,' said FIBA Asia Deputy Secretary General Hagop Khajirian.

As a result of Kyrgyzstan's absence, Group D in the preliminary round will feature only three teams -- Iran, Syria and Malaysia.

China 115 (Li Xiaoxu 17, Liu Shunan 15, Zhao Hongwei 14, Wang Zheng 14, Yu Shulong 13) beat Hong Kong China 61 (Yuen Ka Ho 9). Quarter Scores: 27-15, 55-22, 88-42.

Other Scores:
China 115 - 61 Hong Kong
S.Arabia 83 - 110 Jordan
Korea 65 -62 Kazakhstan
Japan 96 - 71 India
Malasiya 61 - 102 Iran
C.Taipei 105 -106 Philippimes
Lebanon - - - UAE

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COSTA RICA

Centrobasket 2008: Defending champion better than Costa Rica - by Eurobasket News
Panama - Costa Rica 91-61

Gold medal winner form the previous Centrobasket Panama reached the first win in Mexico. As a reminder, Panamanians suffered very inconvenient defeat yesterday against Cuba but they still have a chance for the semis. Cuba's chances for that are much bigger as in the last round they will meet winless Costa Rica. On the other side Panama will take on Puerto Rico, which already booked a spot for the semis with 2-0.

This game was an easy one for Panama. It had five players in a game mood which finished it with 10 or more points. It for sure was enough against Costa Ricans, which had just 16 of 61 for FG2 and 4 of 14 for 3-pts. At the half time Panama already had solid 13-point lead. Maximiliano Gomez (196-G/F-75), Reyjavick DeGracia (203-F/C-81, agency: Regeneracom Sports, college: John Brown) and Ernesto Oglivie (199-F-88) picked up where they left of in the first half extending lead to 21 before the last frame. Costa Rica had only Henry Martinez (186-G/F-75, agency: Interperformances) and David Carnegie (193-F-84) which were able to compete against the Panamanians but their team needed a way more. Panama ended last quarter 23-14 looking forward to the last round and a chance against tough Puerto Ricans.

Maximiliano Gomez netted 15 points for the winning side. Reyjavick DeGracia also demonstrated wonderful performance nailing 12 points and grabbing 15 boards. Ernesto Oglivie and Danilo Pinnock (196-G-83, agency: Pro One Sports, college: George Washington) had 12 points apiece but Ernesto Oglivie missed one more rebound for double-double. Costa Rica got the most from Henry Martinez, who scored 15 points. David Carnegie was behind him with 13 points and 8 rebounds.

Panama - Costa Rica 91-61
(25-21, 18-9, 25-17, 23-14)

Panama: Maximiliano Gomez 15, Reyjavick DeGracia 12 (15 rebs), Ernesto Oglivie 12 (9 rebs), Danilo Pinnock 12 (4 rebs)
Costa Rica: Henry Martinez 15, David Carnegie 13 (8 rebs)

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CROATIA

Murus Andelija and Nikola Vladovic on try-out in Kvarner Novi Resort - by Eurobasket News
Kvarner Novi Resort decided to reinforce its roster with brining of another big guy. Two potential acquisitions, which are currently on try-out in Croatian A1 team, are Murus Andelija (208-C/F-81) and Nikola Vladovic (214-F/C-87).

Bosnian Murus Andelija played previous two seasons in Czech team USK Praha. He ended the last one as a second rebounder of NBL with 7.3 rpg. At the same time Andelija also averaged 9.7 ppg and 1.3 apg in 44 games. In his first season with USK Praha Andelija had 15.1 ppg and 6.8 rpg. He played for Olimpija Patron winning Greek A2 league on season 05/06. In the past he also was a member of Sloboda Dita, Koper and Zmaj od Bosne. With Sloboda DIta he won Bosnian National Cup in 2001. If Kvarner Novi Resort decides to sign Andelija it will be his first season in Croatia.

The second player who is currently with Kvarner Novi Resort on try-out is Nikola Vladovic. He started last season Slovenian Zagorje averaging 10.4 ppg and 5.2 rpg for 7 games in 1A. Later, actually in January, he moved to Bosnian D1 team Capljina Lasta. 21-year old center started career in Plastnik Solin later joining Split. He was a member of Croatian U18 National Team in 2004 and 2005.

It seems that Kvarner Novi Resort gave up on Antonio Zizic (207-C/F-86), who was mentioned as one of the options for the upcoming season.

Davor Kus officially in Cibona on loan, Ivan Kartelo goes to Greek KAO Dramas - by Eurobasket News
Cibona Zagreb officially succeeded to get Davor Kus (190-G-78) on loan from Unicaja Malaga for season 08/09. It is not officially announced will Cibona pay the entire Kus' salary for the upcoming season or it will be responsible for one part, what is mentioned as acceptable options for both teams.

Center Ivan Kartelo (208-C-79, college: Purdue) will continue career in Greek A2 team KAO Dramas. Kartelo played last season in Dubrava Zagreb finishing A1 as a second best rebounder grabbing 8.7 rpg. He appeared 30 times in top Croatian division adding 11 ppg, 1.4 apg and 1.5 spg. Two seasons ago, he played for Austrian team Macabido Oberwart Gunners having 5.9 ppg and 5.5 rpg for 21 games. He helped his team to reach the play-off final in Bundesliga A as well as semifinals of National Cup. Season 04/05 Kartelo spent in Split. He greatuated at Purdue University in 2004 having 5.7 ppg and 6 rpg as his senior year. He spend first two at Notre Dame.

In the meantime Dubrovnik played first friendly game this summer. Its rival was newcomer to Bosnian D1 Triland from Sarajevo. Dubrovnik showed better performance than Bosnian team winning 76-88. Ante Vranjes (204-F/C-75, agency: Heinrich Sports) was the leading player of his team scoring 19 points. Maro Lucic (202-C-80) followed with 17 points while Marijo Hajdic (204-F/C-89) had 15. The last one with double figures in Dubrovnik was Marko Radic (188-G-89), who netted 11 points.

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CUBA

Centrobasket 2008: Jose Juan Barea paces Puerto Rico to the semis - by Eurobasket News
Cuba - Puerto Rico 90-103

Puerto Rico proved its quality again Cuba remaining undefeated after two days of Centrobasket Championship 2008. With this victory Puerto Ricans also booked a spot for the semifinals. On the other hand, Cuba will have a good chance to do the same. Yesterday's victory allowed Cubans to fight for the semis thus if they beat Costa Rica in the last game one place in the semifinals will be reserved for them. Even if Cuba suffers defeat against Costa Rica and Puerto Rico celebrate against Panama, Cubans will have a chance for the next stage.

Puerto Ricans resolved question about the winner already in the first half. Jose Juan Barea (181-G-84, agency: KMG Sports Management, college: Northeastern) was totally unstoppable during the entire game. Moslty owing to him Puerto Rico ended first quarter 21-34. Interesting that Jose Juan Barea, Alex Falcon (200-F-74, agency: Next Level) and Javier Mojica came into this game from the bench but scored 20 of Puerto Rico's 34 points in the first frame. Barea continued in the same rhythm giving serious headache to the Cubans. His penetrations and killing passes were enough for plus 20 for his team at the half time. After the breather Puerto Ricans slowed down what Cuba tried to exploit but unsuccessful. Puerto Rico controlled this game until the very end.

Jose Juan Barea was a key player in his team. He spent 31 minutes on court collecting 19 points, 4 rebounds and impressive 15 assists. Alex Falcon also shined for the winners with 19 points and 4 rebounds while Angelo Reyes (205-F/C-81) had 14 points and 6 rebounds. Geoffrei Silvestre (202-F/C-79) once again was the best player in Cuba adding 25 points and 5 rebounds. Yoan Luis Haiti (200-C-82) had 19 points and 5 boards.

Cuba - Puerto Rico 90-103
(21-34, 21-28, 20-19, 28-22)

Cuba: Geoffrei Silvestre 25 (5 rebs), Yoan Luis Haiti 19 (5 rebs)
Puerto Rico: Jose Juan Barea 19 (4 rebs, 15 as), Alex Falcon 19 (4 rebs), Angelo Reyes 14 (6 rebs)

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CYPRUS

Kenny Satterfield in Apollon. - by Chris Mammides

The American forward Kenny Satterfield (188-G-81, agency: Court Side, college: Cincinnati) agreed financial terms with Pizza Express Primetel Apollon. The Limassol team has agreed terms last week and it seems that the moves taken on behalf of Apollon this seazon are very well organised and targeted. The Americna player has both NBA and European courts experience as his last four seazons were spent in the French and Lebanese courts (he played one game in the Greek league A1 too)while at the beggining of his after college career he spent two seazons in the magic world of NBA wearing Denver Nuggets.

Cypriots abroad

Andreas Sizopoulos agreed financial terms with ICBS, in the Colelge team he will be playing as a team-mate of his ex team-mate is Apoel, Vassilis Kounas.

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DENMARK

Denmark finishes third in Tallinn - by Eurobasket News
Denmark finished the Tournament of Four Nations in Estonia. The team won one game and saw two losses. Estonian National team defeated Denmark 74:68 and was crowned the winners of the Tournament of Four Nations, which ended yesterday in Tallinn. Janar Talts (204-C-83) led the winners with 15 points. Dorbek added 13 and Kristjan Kangur had 11 points. Peter Johansen (204-F/C-80, agency: Arik Krayn Services) replied with 19 points, while Adame Darboe (190-G-86, agency: Rasmussen Services) added 15.
Denmark had a better start in the game and led throughout the first half. The team won the second period that gave them 38:34 lead at the halftime.
Estonia has a tough time against Denmark in the very last game, trailing 53:60 with 8 minutes to play. Gert Dorbek (187-G-85) and Tanel Tein (194-G/F-78, college: St.Francis,NY) hit back-to-back three-pointers, starting hosts' 14:0 run in five minutes. With 3 minutes left, Dorbek's another triple and made it 67:60. Denmark answered with two baskets in a row but another basket from Dorbek and a layup by Talts decided the game.
In another game, Israel defeated Ukraine 96:84 to finish the tournament on 2nd place. Ukraine did not win any game and finished the tournament last.

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D-LEAGUE

Former D-Leaguers Participating in 2008 Centrobasket Championship - by Surujh Roopnarine
Mexico is the sight of the 208 Centrobasket Championship (August 27 31) where four teams will vie for spots in the 2009 FIBA Americas Championships (2010 FIBA World Championship Qualifier). Former D-Leaguers will be suiting up for some of the countries looking to secure berths as Puerto Rico is the favorite to capture the crown.
Teams Participating; Group A Mexico, US Virgin Islands, Dominican Republic, El Salvador; Group B Puerto Rico, Cuba, Panama, Costa Rica
D-Leaguers Participating in Tournamnet
Danilo Pinnock (6'5''-G-83, college: George Washington) (Panama): 2006-07 Arkansas RimRockers
Kitwana Rhymer (6'10''-C-78, college: Massachusetts) (US Virgin Islands): 2004-05 Columbus Riverdragons / Roanoke Dazzle
Jose Juan Barea (5'11''-G-84, college: Northeastern) (Puerto Rico): 2006-07 Ft. Worth Flyers

Devin Brown will be Back in New Orleans for the 2008-09 NBA Campaign - by Surujh Roopnarine
Former USBL and D-League Standout Devin Brown (6'5''-G/F-78, college: UTSA) signed a contract with the New Orleans Hornets. Brown, a six year NBA veteran, spent last season with Cleveland where he averaged 7.5 points, 3.4 rebounds and 2.2 assists in 78 games. As an undrafted free Agent out of UT San Antonio in 2002, Brown pulled Double duty, earning USBL Rookie of the Year honors with the Kansas Cagerz as well as D-League Player of the Year Honors that fall with the Fayetteville Patriots of the NBDL. For his NBA career, Brown has averaged 7.5 points, 3.0 rebounds and 1.6 assists in 352 games with Cleveland, Denver, New Orleans/Oklahoma City, San Antonio and Utah. Browns most productive NA season came with NOH/OKC during the 2006-07 season where he appeared in 58 games and averaged career highs of 11.6 points, 4.3 rebounds and 2.6 assists while shooting 42.0% from the field.

Former Oregon Duck Standout Heads Back Home to Portland - by Surujh Roopnarine
D-League veteran guard/forward Luke Jackson (6'7''-F/G-81, agency: Priority Sports, college: Oregon) has been signed by his hometown Portland Trail Blazers. This is likely a partially-guaranteed contract which will hinge on his performance during training camp to determine if he sticks on the roster for opening night. Originally drafted with the 10th overall pick of the 2004 NBA Draft by Cleveland, Jackson split last season with the Idaho Stampede of the D-League and the Miami Heat. Jackson was instrumental in Idahos Championship run last season, averaging 12.8 points, 3.8 rebounds and 5.0 assists in four playoff games. In 19 regular season games he averaged 13.3 points, 3.7 rebounds and 3.2 assists while shooting 40.9% from the field. Luke earned a Gatorade Call-Up from Miami in December and played well off the bench for the oft-injury depleted Miami squad. In 14 games Jackson averaged career highs of 5.6 points and 2.4 rebounds to go with 1.2 assists in 16.3 minutes per contest. Over his four year NBA career, Jackson has played with Cleveland, Los Angeles (Clippers), Toronto and Miami, career appearing in 73 career games with averages of 3.5ppg, 1.2rpg and is a career 35.7% shooter from the field, including 36.0% from behind the three-point line. Jackson, a former University of Oregon All-American, finished his four-year career with the Ducks as one of only two players in Pac-10 history to amass more than 1,900 points, 700 rebounds and 400 assists. Jackson remains the only player in Oregon history to rank in the Top-10 in nine categories.

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DOMINICAN REPUBLIC

Centrobasket 2008: Dominican Republic Win First To El Salvador - by Kerwin Abreu

Mexico: The Dominican Republic National won the first game of the serie vs. El Salvador 106 - 41. Since the first quarter the Dominican Team was playing to win. Definitely El Salvador is the weekest team of the Tornament but It was a great victory anyway. In the victory the best were Francisco Garcia (201-F-81, agency: Octagon, college: Louisville) 22 points 2 rebounds, Carlos Morban (187-G-82, agency: Global Sports Plaza, college: Florida Intern.) 15 with 5 3 points shots made.Jack Michael Martinez (203-F/C-81, agency: Paris Global Sports) 13 points and 10 rebounds. In the lost cause Jose Antonio Orellana 14 points, Bob Hunter (193-F-76) 6.

This is the first victory in this young tournament. Dominican Republic will be facing Mexico Tomorrow.

Centrobasket 2008: Dominican Republic smashes El Salvador in day 2 - by Eurobasket News
Dominican Republic - El Salvador 106-41

After yesterday surprising defeat against Virgin Islands, Dominican Republic succeeded to recover from it registering huge victory against El Salvador. Thus Dominicans and Virgin Islands currently have the same score 1-1. If Virgin Islands beat El Salvador in the last round Dominicans will stay out of the semifinals. There is also the other possibility if El Salvador record first win and Dominican Republic beat Mexico but there are just tiny chances for that to happen.

Dominican Republic was the team which controlled rhythm of the game from the early beginning. After just 10 minutes it was 33-8, what was a clear sign that Dominicans is going to take this one. Until the half time Francisco Garcia (201-F-81, agency: Octagon, college: Louisville) and his teammates extended lead to huge 32 points. El Salvador had extremely bad shot percentage during the entire game (28% for FG2 and 23% for 3-pts). Dominicans had big advantage in the paint which resulted with many easy baskets as well as 41 rebounds at the end. El Salvador had just 19. Everything outcame with the final 106-41.

Francisco Garcia was the best scorer for the winning side with 22 points netted for 19 minutes. Carlos Morban (187-G-82, agency: Global Sports Plaza, college: Florida Intern.) followed scoring 15 points. Jack Michael Martinez (203-F/C-81, agency: Paris Global Sports) also was great helping his team with double-double, 13 points, 10 rebounds and 4 assists. Araujo Jose was the only player with double digits for the loosing side stopping on 14 points.

Dominican Republic - El Salvador 106-41
(33-8, 18-11, 31-16, 24-6)

Dominican Republic: Francisco Garcia 22, Carlos Morban 15, Jack Michael Martinez 13 (10 rebs, 4 as)
El Salvador: Araujo Jose 14

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EL SALVADOR

ESTONIA

Estonia wins home tournament - by Janar Filippov
Estonian NT defeated Denmark 74:68 (34:38) and was crowned the winners of the Tournament of Four Nations, which ended today in Tallinn.
Estonia has a tough time against Denmark in the very last game, trailing 53:60 with 8 minutes to play. Then Gert Dorbek (187-G-85) and Tanel Tein (194-G/F-78, college: St.Francis,NY) hit back-to-back three-pointers, starting hosts' 14:0 run in five minutes. With 3 minutes left, Dorbek's another triple, his 3rd today in 3 attempts, made it 67:60. Denmark answered with two baskets in a row but another basket from Dorbek and a layup by Talts decided the game. Janar Talts (204-C-83) led his team's scorers with 15 points, Dorbek added 13 and Kristjan Kangur (202-F-82) 11 points. Peter Johansen (204-F/C-80, agency: Arik Krayn Services) answered with 19 points, Adame Darboe (190-G-86, agency: Rasmussen Services) added 15, Nicolai Iversen (204-F-80, agency: Rasmussen Services, college: San Jose City JC) 13.
In the other game, Israel defeated Ukraine 96:84 to finish the tournament on 2nd place.

Kikerpill heads to Greece - by Janar Filippov

Ex-captain of Estonian NT, Tarmo Kikerpill (197-F-77) has signed a contract with former Euroleague finalist and Saporta Cup winner AEK Athens. 'It is a tremendous challenge for me. I am going to find out how close I am to the high level of Greek top clubs,' Kikerpill said to newspaper SL Ohtuleht.

Last season Kikerpill played in Czarni Slupsk, Poland, averaging 10.8 ppg. A year before that he helped TU/Rock to become Estonian champions. Kikerpill has been extremely popular in his home town, Tartu.

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FINLAND

KORISLIIGA: Jessan Gray now in Finland - by Rauno Hurmalainen
American F Jessan Gray (208-F-84, agency: Beggs and Lane) has arrived to Europe/Finland. Gray has recovered from the knee injury, that took place a year ago, when the Player had a try out in Switzerland (Vacallo). Now Gray is practising on Tarmo (Porvoo) roster. Tarmo's Head Coach Lars Ekstrom thinks Gray fits well into his team's style of play. Ekstrom met Gray in the summer at EuroBasket Camp in the USA. Gray comes from Iowa State U. where he played as a Jr and Sr 2005-07. This summer Gray was playing at Eurobasket Summer League in Chicago.

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FYR MACEDONIA

NT member Jane Petrovski signs with Hungarian Soproni Sordogok - by Eurobasket News
Point guard Jane Petrovski (181-G-87, agency: 011 Sports) agreed terms with Hungarian team Soproni Sordogok. Petrovski played last four seasons for MZT Skopje reaching the play-off semifinals twice in Macedonian league. In 2007 he was named 'Eurobasket.com Macedonian League All-Domestic Players Team' while a year later he was voted 'Eurobasket.com All-Macedonian League Honorable Mention'. Before MZT Skopje he played for Polo Trade Strumica as well as for Nikol Fert Gostivar. Petrovski was a member of Macedonian U16 National Team which participated in European Championship in Spain in 2003. This summer head coach of senior Team Macedonia Josica Arsic called Petrovski to join it.

'I do believe I will get a nice chance to prove myself in this team. I am sure I will show my best in Soproni what could be a great step forward in my career. I hope it won't be the only nice thing this summer. I wish to book a spot for Eurobasket 2009 with NT of Macedonia' - said Jane Petrovski.

In the mean time, Vlado Ilievski (190-G-80, agency: World Sport Agency) left National Team camp due to private reasons. It is not known exactly when he will rejoin Team Macedonia but it for sure will be on time for the beginning of Eurobasket 2009 qualifications. Except of Ilijevski, Macedonia is still without Pero Antic (210-F-82, agency: Interperformances), who recovers from injury. Experienced center Todor Gecevski (209-C-77, agency: Interperformances) also will miss following few practices. Gecevski have to show up in Zadar, where he extended contract during the summer.

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GEORGIA

Latvia fall to Georgia in Riga - by Eurobasket News
Latvia - Georgia 72:80

Latvian National Team failed to make three out of three at home International Basketball tournament. Yesterday the hosts came up short against Georgia to snap their two-game winning streak. Latvia however managed to remain on top of the ladder despite the loss. The visitors dominated the game right from the start as they capitalized on sloppy form of the home team. Georga jumped ahead in the starting period and piled up a 22:19 lead after ten minutes of action. Latvia could not deny the deficit in the second frame and Georgia arrived at halftime up by 10 points 44:34. The situation did not change drastically after the long break. Georgia kept the steady line and remained in charge. Latvia struggled to come any closer despite a pivotal performance from Andris Biedrins (213-C-86). Georgia just widened the gap as they were in front by as many as 13 points for the fourth quarter. Latvia cut the deficit to single digits in the final period but Georgia withstood the effort and posted their second victory in Riga. Vladimir Boisa (209-F/C-81, agency: World Sport Agency) scored 18 points to lead Georgia. Giorgi Gamqrelidze (183-G-86) and Zaza Pachulia (212-C-84) added 14 points apiece for the winners. Andris Biedrins responded with 18 points and 17 boards for Latvia. Kristaps Janicenoks (196-F-83) had 18 points in the loss. Georgia shot impressive 50% from beyond the arc and committed only 11 turnovers down the stretch.

Latvia: Andris Biedrins 18+17 boards, Kristaps Janicenoks 18
Georgia: Vladimir Boisa 18, Giorgi Gamqrelidze 14, Zaza Pachulia 14

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GERMANY

A2-National Team downs Sweden - by Moritz Korff
The German A2-National Team held off Sweden 78:68 on the opening day of the international tournament in Holland. Germany coach Frank Menz had to replace Heiko Schaffartzik (182-G-84) and Tim Schwartz (199-F-87) who had left the team to start practicing with their club-sides and Lucca Staiger (196-G-88) who was forced out by an illness. On the other hand Elias Harris (200-F-89) had joined the squad and played well in his first appearance on the A2-team. In terms of scoring Germany was led by Guido Gruenheid

(209-F/C-82, agency: Court Side) who scored 19 points. He was joined in double-figures by Nikita Khartchenkov (201-F-87, agency: Scorers 1st Sportmanagement) with 14 points, Sebastian Greene (203-F, college: Fordham), Jermain Raffington (205-F/C-85, college: Southeastern CC) and Nicolai Simon (191-G-87) tallied 10 points apiece. The Swedish offense was paced by Jonathan Skjoldebrand (203-C/F-83, agency: Arik Krayn Services) who had 14 points.
The German team will take on Switzerland today and the Dutch host on Saturday.

Germany (points): Gruenheid (19), Khartchenkov (14), Greene (10), Raffington (10), Simon (10), Harris (9), Maedrich (3), Mangold (3), Benzing.

Michael Comick to Salzkotten - by Daniel Poerschke
Michael Comick (191-G, college: Staten Island, agency: Scorers 1st Sportmanagement) will strenghten the backcourt of 1. Regionalliga West club Benslips Baskets Salzkotten for the upcoming season. Comick spend last season with ASC Theresianum Mainz and won the 1. Regionalliga South-West-North crown. He is an excellent shooter and is able to play both the point guard or shooting guard position on the floor. For Mainz the athletic Comick scored 12.4ppg in 20 games last season. With him and earlier signed Marcus Ligons (201-F-84, agency: Scorers 1st Sportmanagement), Salzkotten has now a good american inside-outside combo.

46ers seal Jeffers deal - by Moritz Korff
The LTi Giessen 46ers (1. Bundesliga) have completed the signing of Maurice Jeffers (194-G/F-79, college: St.Louis) for the 2008-09 campaign. The 29-year-old from Morrilton, Arkansas is expected to be a the starter for the 46ers on the wing. Jeffers, who was selected by the Sacramento Kings in the 2001 NBA Draft (2nd round, 55th), started his overseas career in Switzerland in 2002 and spent the past five seasons in Spanish basketball. During 2007-08 he averaged 10.1 points and 3.7 rebounds in 34 games for Leche Rio Breogan Lugo (LEB Gold).

Braves pick up three new players - by Moritz Korff
The Kaiserslautern Braves have added another three fresh faces to their 2008-09 roster. The 2. Bundesliga Pro A side reached agreements with Walt Baxley (191-G, agency: 540 Sports, college: Mars Hill), Adrick Hills (174-G-80, college: Bethel (IN)) and Aleksandr Zyskunov (209-F/C-77, agency: Scorers 1st Sportmanagement, college: Fordham).
Baxley was a 2005-06 NCAA Division Two All-America First Team member and had a scoring average of 27.9ppg as a senior, the second best in Division Two that year. He started his professional career in the Iranian Superleague and played shortly for JKKS Gornik Walbrzych in the Polish first league during this past season (6 games: 4.7ppg, 1.5rpg, 1.3apg). Meanwhile, for Hills the Braves won't be the first stop in German basketball. The 26-year-old Playmaker spent one and a half year at BC Weissenhorn in the Regionalliga, receiving Eurobasket.com All-Regionalliga South-West South Second Team honors in 2007. The graduate of Bethel College (NAIA2) averaged 23.5 points in 15 games for the Bears during 2007-08, but was waived at the beginning of 2008, because 'he acted too selfish', as a Weissenhorn press-release told back in January. Zyskunov is set to add some size to the team of Coach Vladimir Bogojevic. The 31-year-old former Belorussian international with German passport produced 1.7 points and 1.5 rebounds in 17 Bundesliga-games for Eisbaeren Bremerhaven last season.

Heidelberg keeps Beran and McNeil - by Manuel Schust
USC Heidelberg signed a new center and a point guard: Ben Beran (201-F, college: S.Dakota St.) and Japhet McNeil (183-G-85, college: Bridgeport) could both convince head coach Torsten Daume after a try-out phase and will be members of next season's team.
Beran, a 201cm frontcourt player, spent last season with NCAA team S.Dakota St. and produced 12.3 points and 4.4 rebounds per game.
McNeil had an outstanding season with Bridgeport (NCAA2) and averaging 16.6 points, 4.0 rebounds, 4.9 assists and 4.0 steals.

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GREECE

A2 Transfer news - by Chris Mammides
Panerythraikos AS agreed terms with the Greek center Giorgos Loupos (208-C-78).

Savvas Manousos (208-F/C-85) will remain in Patras but he is changing neighborhoods as he will be wearing the Olympiada Patras jersey for the coming season. The contract of the talented center is for one year.

Xanthi will finally remain in the A2 division even though had many financial problems, the Greek Head Coach Giorgos Zafiroudis will based his forces upon target which is no other than the survival in the A2,and for this reason the starting five players will be the following: Ivan Mimica (193-G-80), Nikos Anagnostopoulos (190-G-81), Lazaros Seferidis (192-G-82), Giannis Maroulakis (195-F-76) and Dendrinos.

Sasha Theodorakis (211-C-77), Andreas Sizopoulos (189-G-83) and Nikos Kourtis (195-F-77), agreed terms with ICBS.

Iraklis agreed financial terms with Nikos Liakopoulos (201-F-76) and Head Coach Paraskevas Mouratidis while is very close to sign the American small forward Dee Ayuba (198-F-86, college: UMKC). Dee has an English passport so he will be playing as a Bosman.

Pagrati agreed financial terms with Damir Latovic (204-C-80)

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HOLLAND

Easy win Holland over Switzerland - by Fred Roggen
The Netherlands has won its first match of the International tournament in Alkmaar. Switzerland was defeated by 73-62 after 35-23 at haltime. In Alkmaar remained Sam Jones, Bryan Defares and Ramon van de Hare injured on the bench.
Since the beginning of the game players of headcoach Gadi Kedar dominated the game. At half time the Dutch squad had a 35-23 lead, it was already clear that the Dutch will take this one.
The teams traded basket throughout the third frame but the Dutch outfit gradually cleared off to a 59-37 distance.
The Netherlands never looked back further on and easily ensured the winning outcome in this one.
Peter Van Paassen

(210-C/F-78, agency: Court Side, college: St.Bonaventure) came up with 14 points for Holland.Rogier Jansen

(188-G-84, agency: Court Side) had 13 points, while Stefan Wessels

(203-F-84, agency: R.H.Consultancy) added 11.

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HONG KONG

Round up: Nike League 2008 - by Cheung Suet-pan
Nike All-Hong Kong Youth Basketball League was finshed on 10th August. Youngster Lau Hoi-to ( Fukien PF/198cm/ 16yrs old) represented fot the team 'Air Zoom' in the U-19 group, which successfully won all the five games and clinched the title with a promising performence.

The champion of U-19 group was decided by best two out of three between 'Air Zoom' and 'Uptempo', which was finsihed without much surprise that 'Air Zoom' won two straight games by 15 and 20 points representatively.

After 'Uptempo' lost the first game with 65:85, they insisted to rely again on the main scorer Cheung Wai-hong. However, the second game was just on the plan what 'Air Zoom' designed. Cheung was still under a massive team defence by 'Air Zoom'. The first half was controlled by 'Air Zoom' with 21:15 and 37:24 when going through the quarter marks. 'Uptempo' got a better rythem at the second half , but could not make the margin narrower, defeated by 56:71.

Lau Hoi-to was selected as the Final MVP, and he made a comment about his height after the games. 'I am the tallest player in the Nike League, which resulted with a lot of double team, but I resolved the problem with the best way, as I turn to assist my teammates' Lau was playing in th U-16 group last year, while the changing of age group casued no trouble for the promising star.

Hong Kong U18 participates in Tehran - by Eurobasket News

The 20th Edition of the FIBA Asia Junior Championship started in Iran and will be held from August 28 through September 5. The tourney will enjoy the participation of fifteen teams. They were divided into 4 preliminary groups. China, Japan, Hong Kong and India got into Group A. Group B comprised South Korea, Saudi Arabia, Kazakhstan and Syria. Chinese Taipei, Philippines, UAE and Lebanon got into Group C. Finally hosting Iran, Malaysia, Jordan and made up for Group D. China celebrated the victory in the 19th edition of the competition held in Urumqi City.
China beat Hong Kong 115:61 in its opening contest in Group A of the FIBA Asia Under-18 championship. Li Xiaoxu (204-C-90) led the winners with 17 points. Liu Shunan (198-F-90) netted 15, while Zhao HongWei (192-G) and Wang Zheng (216-C-90) added 14 each and Yu Shulong scored 13. Yuen Ka Ho ended up with 9 points in the losing effort. China led 27:15 after one quarter, 55:22 at the half, and 88:42 after three quarters. Liu Shunan, a 200 cm small forward from Liaoning did not play in China's loss to Taiwan in Manila. Wang Zheng, the 216 center and the player who has the most NBA potential on the team, scored 14 points as did Zhao HongWei.
In the second day of the tournament Japan mauled Hong Kong 102:60 and advance to the top groups of the Quarterfinal round. Japan won the opening quarter 22:11 and did not stop in the game. They led to 39:27 after the half and increased to 74:43 after three quarters played.

China U18 - Hong Kong U18 115:61
China U18: Li Xiaoxu 17, Liu Shunan 15, Zhao HongWei 14, Wang Zheng 14, Yu Shulong 13
Hong Kong U18:Yuen Ka Ho 9

Japan U18-Hong Kong U18 102:60

Japan U18: Kaito Ishikawa 17, Yusuke Karino 15, Takumi Hoshino 13
Hong Kong U18: Chow Kin Wan 23

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IRAN

Haddadi in NBA!! - by Mohammed Malas
The Memphis Grizzlies signed free-agent center Hamed Ehadadi (218-C-85, agency: Agency No 10) pronounced (ha-MED ha-DAHD-dee), who led all 2008 Olympians in rebounding and blocks, Grizzlies General Manager and Vice President of Basketball Operations Chris Wallace announced today. Per team policy, terms of the deal were not disclosed.

The Ahvaz, Iran native recently participated in the 2008 Olympic Games in Beijing, China, where he was the only player to average a double-double (16.6 points, 11.2 rebounds, 2.6 blocks) in Olympic competition while playing five games for the Iranian National Team.

The 7-2, 254-pound center had his best performance came against eventual bronze medal winner Argentina when he had a team-high 21 points and game-high 16 rebounds on Aug. 16.

We are pleased to sign Hamed, said Wallace. He is a young center who was very productive as a rebounder, shotblocker and scorer at the Rocky Mountain Revue Summer League in Salt Lake City, Utah, the 2008 Olympics and the FIBA Diamond Ball Tournament in Nanjing, China prior to the Olympics. Our coaching staff is eager to begin working with Hamed.

Haddadi, who is slated to become the first Iranian to play in the NBA, poured in 31 points and grabbed 10 rebounds against Lebanon in the 2007 FIBA Asian Championship in Japan, helping Iran clinch its first Olympic basketball berth since 1948.

The 23-year-old, who was not selected in the 2004 NBA Draft, recently averaged 14.0 points, 11.5 rebounds and 2.5 blocks in 25.5 minutes in two games for the Iranian team against NBA competition at the 2008 Rocky Mountain Revue.

Haddadi, who spent the 2007-08 season playing for Saba Battery BC in the Iranian Super League, will join former Grizzlies Jake Tsakalidis and Cezary Trybanski as the tallest players in franchise history. He is also the second Grizzlies player to appear in the 2008 Olympics, joining center Marc Gasol, who captured a silver medal with the Spanish National Team.

Source: NBA.com

The hosts of FIBA Asia U18 Championship beat Malaysia U18 in the opener - by Eurobasket News
The hosts of FIBA Asia U18 Championship for Junior Men began their Group D campaign with a 102:61 win over Malaysia U18. The latter struggled a lot in the opening quarter but could not stay on track later in the game. Mehdi Shirjang led the winners with 22 points. Mohammad Amjad (190-G-90) netted 12 and Emad Salmani produced 11. Ong Chun Khee finished the game with 16 points for the guests and Kwaan Yoong Jing added 14.
The 20th Edition of the FIBA Asia Junior Championship started in Iran and will be held from August 28 through September 5. The tourney will enjoy the participation of fifteen teams. They were divided into 4 preliminary groups. China, Japan, Hong Kong and India got into Group A. Group B comprised South Korea, Saudi Arabia, Kazakhstan and Syria. Chinese Taipei, Philippines, UAE and Lebanon got into Group C. Finally hosting Iran, Malaysia, Jordan and made up for Group D. China celebrated the victory in the 19th edition of the competition held in Urumqi City.
Malaysia did a lot of running early in the game, led for a while in the first quarter before succumbing to the pressure applied by the hosts. Iran seized control towards the end of the first quarter and grew in strength as the game progressed. A 24:20 after the opening quarter was changed to 50:41 but still remained intrigue in the game. Only in the last period after 73:60 the hosts pushed the tempo to seal 102:61 victory.

Iran U18-Malaysia U18 102:61
Iran U18: Mehdi Shirjang 22, Mohammad Amjad 12, Emad Salmani 11
Malaysia U18: Ong Chun Khee 16, Kwaan Yoong Jing 14

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ISRAEL

Hapoel Migdal Jerusalem sign Moran Roth - by Eurobasket
Hapoel Migdal Jerusalem added to their roster 26-year old international guard Moran Roth (178-G-82, agency: Arik Krayn Services). Roth played most recently at Hapoel Holon (Premier L.), which won both Regular Season and then the play-offs of the Premier League. His stats last season were 8.1ppg, 2.0rpg and he was 4th best scorer in the league with 4.6apg.

Hapoel Holon sign three talented youngsters - by Eurobasket
Hapoel Holon strengthened their roster with addition three skilled youngsters: 18-year old forward Yotam Shiran (198-F-90) and two more 19-year old forwards Gilad Bloozer (200-F-89) and Alon Sakal (192-F-89). Shiran played most recently at Hapoel Gilboa-Galil Elyon (Premier L.). He just came back from European Championships U18 in Amaliada Pyrgos (GRE) where he lead Israeli team with 10.3ppg and 2.9rpg. Gilad Bloozer came from Hapoel Natzrath Elite (National League) and he also used to represent Israel as a junior last year. It will be also first season in Premier League for Alon Sakal, who came from Maccabi Ashdod (National League).

Ukraine lose third in a row in Tallinn - by Eurobasket News

Ukraine - Israel 84:96

Ukrainian National Team did not recover after their woeful start to the International Basketball Tournament in Tallinn. They lost to Denmark and Estonia in the opening games and never bounced back in the third round. Ukraine took on Israel yesterday and were beaten 84:96 to finish the competition at the bottom of the ladder. Israel jumped to an early lead and enjoyed a 20-point distance in the first half. Ukraine bounced back in the second period and cut the deficit to 16 points at halftime.

Ukraine managed to trim the deficit in the third quarter and came within 10 points from Israeli team in the fourth period. However Israel looked solid and easily secured the winning outcome at the end. Artur Drozdov (198-G-80) led Ukrainian charge with 21 points. Sergiy Lishchuk (210-C/F-82) added 18 points, while Artem Butskyy (185-G-81) had 15 points in defeat. Israel were paced by 19 points from Yaniv Green (206-F-80, agency: ZAG Advocates). Lior Eliyahu (205-F-85, agency: ZAG Advocates) added 18 points, while Yotam Halperin (196-G-84, agency: Arik Krayn Services) chipped in 16 points for the winners. Israeli team outrebounded their opponetns 34:28 and suffered only 14 turnovers down the stretch. Israel also converted 54% from the field.

Ukraine tip off their EuroBasket Qualification campaign against Turkey on Wednesday. Israel take on Great Britain at home on the same day.

Ukraine: Artur Drozdov 21, Sergiy Lishchuk 18

Israel: Yaniv Green 19, Lior Eliyahu 18, Yotam Halperin 16

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ITALY

Interperformances Available Players - by Interperformances
Interperformances has placed already over 70 percent of it s players beating the past season previous record.
We still however have very interesting players available such as Gregor Fucka

(214-C-71, agency: Interperformances),Virgil Stanescu,Vasco Evtimov,Tony Delk,Kedrik Brown,Roger Powell, Gregory Grays,Andre Woolridge,Bakari Hendrix and several other interesting names who could turn around the season of your club. For any information on these and other players please visit our web page at www.interperformances.com

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JAPAN

Back in Black - by Kenny
2-year JBL veteran PC will be making like AC/DC as he'll be back in black. More specifically, C Peter Cornell (211-C-76, college: Loyola Marymount) will be back in Japan for the 2008-09 season in the black (and red) of the Toshiba Brave Thunders. The 6-11 Cornell spent last season with the Hitachi Sunrockers and was 3rd in rebounds in the JBL with 12.1 boards per game in a little over 2 months with the team after joining Hitachi just prior to the start of the 2nd half of the 2007-08 regular season. He led the JBL in rebounds in 2005-06 with almost 16 rpg with the now defunct Fukuoka Red Falcons. If the athletic Cornell, who reportedly had several suitors for his services, continues to be a rebounding machine and a ferocious dunker as he has been throughout his JBL career, he'll leave Toshiba's opponents feeling like they've been Thunderstruck.

Japan U18 advances to the top groups of the Quarterfinal round - by Eurobasket News
Japan U18 opened the FIBA Asia U18 Championship for Junior Men with a tough win over India. The 20th Edition of the FIBA Asia Junior Championship started in Iran and will be held from August 28 through September 5. China, Japan, Hong Kong and India got into Group A. China celebrated the victory in the 19th edition of the competition held in Urumqi City. The final score 96:71 over India might not describe the whole game as to be tough, but India struggled a lot. The latter won the opening quarter 30:22 and remained hot in the first hot. Japan bounced back in the second quarter and could take 43:42 after the first half. India however managed to score only 41 points in 30 minutes, that more or less summed up the tale of the game. Japan on the other hand began subdued, but grew in confidence and scoring rate as the match progressed to canter home. Kaito Ishikawa paced all the winners with 21 points. Makoto Hiejima scored 16 and Yusuke Karino posted 13. Vishesh Bhriguvanshi ended up with 22 points in defeat and Sunil Rathee added 13.
In the second day of the tournament Japan mauled Hong Kong 102:60 and advance to the top groups of the Quarterfinal round. Japan won the opening quarter 22:11 and did not stop in the game. They led to 39:27 after the half and increased to 74:43 after three quarters played.

Japan U18-Hong Kong U18 102:60
Japan U18: Kaito Ishikawa 17, Yusuke Karino 15, Takumi Hoshino 13
Hong Kong U18: Chow Kin Wan 23

Japan U18- India U18 96:71
Japan U18: Kenta Tateyama 21, Makoto Hiejima 16, Yusuke Karino 13
India U18: Vishesh Bhriguvanshi 22, Sunil Rathee 13

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JORDAN

Jordan opened their FIBA Asia U18 Championship - by Eurobasket News
Jordan opened their FIBA Asia U18 Championship for Junior Men with a win over Saudi Arabia in a Group B. Jordan celebrated 110:83 in the opener for both teams. An 18-4 through the midway of the first quarter proved good enough for Jordan to take a firm grip on the game. A position from where they only grew in strength. They led 62:37 after the half and moved to three digits in the end. Louay Obeidi was unstoppable with 37 points and Abdul Aziz added 18. Yazeed Fallatah posted 19 in defeat, while Seraaj Abuswyhel scored 14.
In the second game Korea beat Jordan 78:69. Jordan went ahead 10:4 early in the game but Korea staged a 17-5 run midway through the quarter to move ahead. Korea never looked behind later and won the game. Lim Jongill top-scored for the winners with 29 points and Kim Yumin added 15. Louay Obeidi ended up with 32 points, whilst Odai Abuqamar posted 14.
Jordan next take on Kazakhstan, who play Saudi Arabia later in the day. Should the Kazakhs beat Saudi Arabia tonight, their clash with Jordan on the morrow would be a virtual play-off to decide the second team to make the elite round from this group.

Jordan U18-Saudi Arabia U18 110:83
Jordan U18: Louay Obeidi 37, Abdul Aziz 18
Saudi Arabia: Yazeed Fallatah 19, Seraaj Abuswyhel 14

Korea U18-Jordan U18 78:69
Korea U18: Lim Jongill 29, Kim Yumin 15
Jordan U18: Louay Obeidi 32, Odai Abuqamar 14

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KAZAKHSTAN

Kazakhstan U18 recovers from the loss - by Eurobasket News
Korea U18 celebrated the win in the opener of FIBA Asia U18 Championship against Kazakhstan U18 65:62. Korea won the first two quarters but had difficulties in the third period. Kazakhstan pushed the tempo for 51:49 in the third period but Korea managed to win the last quarter and the game itself. Lim Jongill led the winners with 19 points while Jang Jaeseok added 13. Alexander Leodovskikh top-scored in the losing effort with 17 points. Anton Arsenyev netted 15 and Alexander Tyutyunik scored 11.
In the second game of FIBA Asia U18 Championship for Junior Men Kazakhstan beat Saudi Arabia 101:72 in Group B. Kazakhstan, who finished just outside the semifinals at Urumqi two years ago, raced ahead 11-4 early in the first quarter and that set the tempo for the rest of the game. They finished with 23:15 in the opening quarter and never looked behind. Kazakhstan outscored Saudi Arabia with 49:27 at the halftime and looked more optimistic. In the second half the winners held off the opponents and led the game to the winning end. Omirzak Akhmet (202-C-90) top-scored for the winners with 30 points. Alexander Tyutyunik netted 20, while Denis Degtyarev added 15. Hassan BinMohammed posted 25 in defeat and Yazaeed Fallatah nailed 21.

Korea U18-Kazakhstan U18 65:62
Korea U18: Lim Jongill 19, Jang Jaeseok 13
Kazakhstan U18: Alexander Leodovskikh 17, Anton Arsenyev 15, Alexander Tyutyunik 11

Kazakhstan U18-Saudi Arabia U18 101:72
Kazakhstan U18:Omirzak Akhmet 30, Alexander Tyutyunik 20, Denis Degtyarev 15
Saudi Arabia U18: Hassan BinMohammed 25, Yazaeed Fallatah 21

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KENYA

U18 Kenya looks forward to Egypt - by Eurobasket News
U18 Kenya showed decent performance in Zone Five U18 Championship which was held in Kampala. Young Kenyans were better than Rwanda in the opener 66-51. Later, Kenya faced with Sudan celebrating extremely tight victory 67-66. It was not the end of Kenya's domination in Kampala. They outplayed Burundi with 31-point difference, 100-69. In the last game they once again had an easy job cruising past Uganda 89-55 finishing qualifications undefeated. As a reminder, the final round of FIBA Africa U18 Championship in Egypt begins on October 16th in Egypt. The last day of the competition is October 25th. Five teams already booked a spot for it while Kenya is the sixth team now. Number of participating teams of this prestigious event is 12. Except of Kenya and the hosts Egypt, U18 National Teams of Nigeria, Mali, Angola and Congo also will take a place on it. FIBA Africa U18 Championship is a qualifier for FIBA World Championship for U19 Men 2009.

Key players of Kenya during the Zone Five U18 Championship were Kevin Samora, David Ogolla, John Paul, Joshua Omondi and Evans Letting.

Beside Kenya, Sudan also showed nice performance in Kampala. Sudan beat Burundi 66-61 and later Uganda 92-95. It lost against Rwanda 63-76 and Kenya in thriller.

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KUWAIT

Ekpenyong signs for Al Yarmook - by Ali Ahmed

Al Yarmook basketball team management agreed terms with the Nigerian forward Edem Ekpenyong (195-F-83) to play for them this season 2008/2009.

Edem is a tenacious open court player, who runs very well and attacks the basket, finishing with dunks. Can hit a long distance shot, and earns a lot of free throws from contacts with defenders. His athleticism make him very effective at grabbing offensive rebounds.

Awards/Achievements:
-National under 18 camp MVP -96
-dunk champ in division II Men tournament
-Nuga gold in Nigeria university games in 2001
-Nigerian University National Team in Beijing, China (FISU 2001)
-Invited to the Senior National Team Camp for African qualifiers in Casablanca, Morocco where he played forward, but did not make the final team cut down in second round.
African Club Championships -05 (Semifinals)
Nigerian National Team 01-06-07
Commonwealth Games in Melbourne -06 (Semifinals)
All-Africa Games in Algeria -07

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LATVIA

LIBERIA

U-16 Female team leaves for Benin - by Numennie Williams
An 18-man delegation of the national U-16 female basketball team left the country yesterday, August 28, for the Republic of Benin to participate in the African Female Youth Basketball Championship.
The delegation is being headed by the Director of Sports at the Ministry of Youth and Sports Navarro Sackie. Other members of the delegation include Fred Pratt, Secretary General of the Liberia Basketball Federation; Solomon George, Head Coach; Abraham B.S. Johnson, Deputy Coach; Roland Lawrence, Trainer and Thomas Sonpon, Medic.
Players making the trip are Love Paul, Clarice Barcon and Esi Jallah of the K-Deltas Basketball Team; others are Laryome Gobah, Muna Kimber and Patience Ciapha of the Phoenix basketball team. Also on board for the competition are Cianna Smith of Survivor, Amaze Dean of Timberwolves, Taryonnoh Jlateh of Destiny Queens and Angela Walker of Rockers Angel Shooters and Rosemette Goodridge of Commission. The competition starts On August 29, 2008 and the four countries

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LITHUANIA

Another shocking injury for Arvydas Macijauskas - by Eurobasket News
Lithuanian superstar Arvydas Macijauskas (192-G-80) suffered another serious injury and this time he will be sidelined for about three months. His team Olympiakos Pireus officially confirmed that Macijauskas won't be able to help his teammates at the beginning of Euroleague as well as Greek A1 league due to fractured foot. Macijauskas really doesn't have luck since he joined Olympiakos in 2006. During this period he played only 14 Euroleague games of 45 Olympiakos' in total. He arrived to Greek giant from NBA New Orleans / Oklahoma City Hornets where he for 19 games averaged 2.3 ppg. It was his rookie one and not so successful season in NBA. He helped Lithuania in 2003 to capture the Gold on European Championship in Sweden. Actually that year he was named 'Eurobasket.com Player of the Year 2003'. At the same year he joined TAU Ceramica. For two seasons in TAU he had almost 19 ppg, 4.5 rpg and 5 apg for 42 Euroleague games leading his team to final in 2005. Both seasons TAU was regular season champion in ACB but it didn't have enough power to make a last step. They won Copa Del Rey in 2004.
Arvydas Macijauskas participated on the previous World Championship in Japan but his team was stopped in the quarterfinals by strong Spain. He had 9 appearances in Japan collecting 13.6 ppg, 2.9 rpg, 2.6 apg and 1.4 spg. Last season he played 12 games in Euroleague for Olympiakos adding 14.8 ppg, 2 rpg, 1.7 apg and 1.7 spg. He had a bit lower digits in Greek A1 league. Olympiakos was once again defeated by green PAO in the play-off final as well as in the final of National Cup.

Ramunas Siskauskas retires from the National Team - by Eurobasket News
Ramunas Siskauskas (197-G-78) 'Siska' announced his retirement from the Lithuanian National Team. It means that the fourth ranked team from the Olympic Games 2008 in Beijing will have to look for another team captain.

Ramunas Siskauskas had extremely important role in Lithuanian National Team over the past 9 years. He was called to join senior National Team project for the first time in 1999. Before that he was a member of U22 Lithuania. First important event where he participated was held in Sydney in 2000 - the Olympic Games. His debut was successful as Lithuania grabbed the Bronze. Three years later Ramunas Siskauskas together with Sarunas Jasikevicius led his team to Gold on European Championship in Sweden. He demonstrated wonderful performance getting the award from NBA legend Larry Bird. Next year, on the Olympic Games in Athens, Lithuania missed the medal loosing the game for the third place against USA. On European Championship 2005 in Belgrade Siskauskas added 14 ppg, 2 rpg and 2.8 apg in 6 games. His Lithuania ended it on fifth place. Siska missed World Championship 2006 in Japan, when Lithuania was 7th ranked team. However, he returned to NT a year later for Eurobasket 2007 in Spain helping Lithuania to capture another Bronze. Unfortunately to Siskauskas, it was the last medal for him in jersey of his country. He played 9 games in Spain adding 13.8 ppg, 3.9 rpg, 2.6 apg and 1.4 spg.

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MALAYSIA

The hosts of FIBA Asia U18 Championship beat Malaysia U18 in the opener - by Eurobasket News
The hosts of FIBA Asia U18 Championship for Junior Men began their Group D campaign with a 102:61 win over Malaysia U18. The latter struggled a lot in the opening quarter but could not stay on track later in the game. Mehdi Shirjang led the winners with 22 points. Mohammad Amjad (190-G-90) netted 12 and Emad Salmani produced 11. Ong Chun Khee finished the game with 16 points for the guests and Kwaan Yoong Jing added 14.
The 20th Edition of the FIBA Asia Junior Championship started in Iran and will be held from August 28 through September 5. The tourney will enjoy the participation of fifteen teams. They were divided into 4 preliminary groups. China, Japan, Hong Kong and India got into Group A. Group B comprised South Korea, Saudi Arabia, Kazakhstan and Syria. Chinese Taipei, Philippines, UAE and Lebanon got into Group C. Finally hosting Iran, Malaysia, Jordan and made up for Group D. China celebrated the victory in the 19th edition of the competition held in Urumqi City.
Malaysia did a lot of running early in the game, led for a while in the first quarter before succumbing to the pressure applied by the hosts. Iran seized control towards the end of the first quarter and grew in strength as the game progressed. A 24:20 after the opening quarter was changed to 50:41 but still remained intrigue in the game. Only in the last period after 73:60 the hosts pushed the tempo to seal 102:61 victory.

Iran U18-Malaysia U18 102:61
Iran U18: Mehdi Shirjang 22, Mohammad Amjad 12, Emad Salmani 11
Malaysia U18: Ong Chun Khee 16, Kwaan Yoong Jing 14

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MEXICO

Centrobasket 2008: Mexico remains perfect after Virgin Islands - by Eurobasket News
Virgin Islands - Mexico 71-75

The hosts of Centrobasket Championship 2008 Mexico celebrated against Virgins Islands in day 2 booking a spot for the semifinals. After great yesterday's victory against Dominican Republic, Virgin Islands also will have a nice chance to reach the semis. In the last game of Group A USVI will meet still winless El Salvador.

Virgin Islands showed slightly better performance in the first frame ending it 23-22. After that moment Ramses Benitez (210-C-79) and Raymond Castillo (196-G/F-82, college: UTPA) stepped up for their team. Mostly owing to them Mexico created magnificent 13-0 run grabbing 37-28 with 56 seconds to go in the first half. Both teams scored 4 points each until the end of it meaning that Mexico had comfortable 11-point lead after 20 minutes. At the one point of third quarter Mexicans touched plus 16 and it seemed that the game was already over. But Virgins Islands didn\t give up and thanks to Cuthbert Victor (196-G-83, college: Murray St.) and Kevin Sheppard (182-G-79, agency: Paris Global Sports, college: Jacksonville) came closer on 58-53 before the crucial 10 minutes. Virgins Islands threatened until the end but after two free throws by Arim Solares Mexico set the margin on 3 points keeping it steady. After that moment both teams score couple of free throws until the very end.

Ramses Benitez once again shined for the winning side collecting 18 points and 5 rebounds. Anthony Lever-Pedroza (191-G-79, agency: Edge Sports, college: Oregon) and Raymond Castillo helped their team scoring 14 points each. Cuthbert Victor was a way better than the others in Virgin Islands adding 24 points and 8 boards. Kevin Sheppard had 16 points and 4 boards while Jason Edwin (196-G/F-81, agency: Scorers 1st Sportmanagement, college: Kent St.) stopped on 15 points and 5 boards.

Virgin Islands - Mexico 71-75
(23-22, 7-19, 23-17, 18-17)

Virgin Islands: Cuthbert Victor 24 (8 rebs), Kevin Sheppard 16 (4 rebs), Jason Edwin 15 (5 rebs)
Mexico: Ramses Benitez 18 (5 rebs), Anthony Lever-Pedroza 14, Raymond Castillo 14

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NCAA1

Will Harris transfers to University at Albany - by Eurobasket News
University at Albany head coach Will Brown announced on Thursday, Aug. 28 that Will Harris (6'6''-G/F) has transferred to the University at Albany program. Harris, a 6-foot-6, 245-pound forward who played the last two years at the University of Virginia, has signed a scholarship agreement and will be eligible for competition in the 2009-10 academic year.

'We are very excited to add Will Harris to our program', said Brown, whose teams have combined for 59 victories and two conference championships over the last three seasons. 'Will brings ACC (Atlantic Coast Conference) experience to our program and he is a former top 100 player nationally coming out of high school. We expect him to be a major impact player in our conference, as he will be a matchup problem with his ability to play multiple positions. More importantly, Will is an outstanding individual who has enjoyed success in the classroom and on the court'.

A native of Corona, N.Y., Harris appeared in 47 games over the last two seasons as a member of the UVa program. He averaged 2.7 points and 2.5 rebounds as a sophomore to earn his second varsity letter, but did not play in the last 14 games due to an injury. Harris played in all 32 games as a freshman for the Cavaliers. He accounted for 3.6 points and 3.2 rebounds per game.

In 2005-06, Harris attended Brewster Academy in New Hampshire, where he earned first-team all-conference recognition after averaging 21.0 points and 11.0 rebounds. He received the Ronald Buzzy Dore Memorial Award as the graduate who exemplified outstanding leadership in the areas of academics, athletics and other activities. Harris scored at a 26.0 clip the previous year at Maine Central Institute.

Courtesy of www.ualbanysports.com

Mark Gilbride joins Yale basketball staff - by Eurobasket News
Mark Gilbride, who spent last year as an assistant coach at Stonehill College, has joined James Jones' staff. Stonehill won 18 games and reached the semifinals of Northeast-10 Tournament during his tenure. Gilbride also spent one season at Amherst, helping the Ephs capture the NCAA Division III national championship, and three years at his alma mater, Bowdoin.

'Mark has a great deal of experience and desire,' said Jones, the Joel E. Smilow, Class of 1954 Head Coach of Men's Basketball at Yale. 'He will bring a fresh perspective and a high energy level to our staff.'

As a player at Bowdoin, Gilbride was a team captain and starting point guard for the Polar Bears. He led the team in assists three seasons in a row. A 2002 graduate, he earned a degree in economics.

Gilbride enjoyed an outstanding prep career at Mount Ararat High School in Topsham, Maine, where he was a 1,000-point scorer and McDonald's all-state selection.

Gilbride replaces Mark Sembrowich, who left in June to work with first-year head coach Johnny Dawkins at Stanford.

Courtesy of www.cstv.com

Ty Proffitt leaves Notre Dame - by Eurobasket News
University of Notre Dame coach Mike Brey has announced that sophomore guard Ty Proffitt (6'4''-G) (London, Ky.) has left the basketball program. He withdrawn from the University and will transfer to another school.

As a freshman in 2007-08, Proffitt appeared in eight contests and averaged 1.0 points and 0.4 rebounds.

Proffitt did attend summer school and accompanied the team on its recent trip to Ireland, August 12-25.

'We fully support Ty's decision to transfer to another school,' Brey said. 'He has represented our basketball program and the University with the utmost class. My staff and I, and most importantly, his teammates, wish Ty nothing but the best.'

Courtesy of www.und.com

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NCAA2

Bemidji State to Play at Assembly Hall - by Josh VanKlompenburg
The Beavers of Bemidji St. have announced that they will travel for an exhibition game to play the Indiana Hoosiers on November 11. The Beavers' head coach Matt Bowen was a 1995 graduate of IU and was a student manager from 1990-1995. Also, a member of the IU coaching staff played for Bemidji from 1984-1986.

Bemidji St., located in Bemidji, Minn., is an NCAA Division II institution and a member of the Northern Sun Intercollegiate Conference (NSIC).

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NEW ZEALAND

The semifinalists are set in CBL - by Eurobasket News
The CBL Finals wound up today with four teams booking their tickets into the CBL Final Four. Yesterday three teams paved their way into the semis. The Waikato Titans shot down the Harbur Heat Reserves 107:94 to claim the semifinal birth. Earl Smith (193-G-73) knocked down 29 points to lead the Titans. Prem Krishna (189-G-76) added 22 points for the winners. Lydon Aoake answered with 21 points for the Heat Reserves as they slipped to 0-2 record. Kael Tarawa contributed 19 points in defeat.
Wellington also made it through to the semis. Troy McLean scored 26 points and Wellington held off Turanga Health Rising Suns 86:69 to improve to 2-0 record. Corey Vassey nailed 13 points for the winners. Reg Namana paced the Rising Suns with 19 points. Rob Tuilave added 11 points in the loss.
The Wellington Saints made it two wins out of two games after they knocked down the Western Bay Suns 90:74. Arthur Trousdell (203-F/C-81, college: Cameron) delivered 22 points for the Saints. Matt Te Huna (190-G-83) came up with 20 points in the win. Ike Smith answered with 21 points for the Bay Suns as they felt to 0-2 record.
The drama unfolded in the North Otago Penguins versus Auckland clash. The Penguins were up 90:89 with 6 seconds remaining and their guard Dalum Smith was at the charity stripe. He however missed both free throws and Auckland pulled down a defensive rebound. They could not handle the ball and it retuned to the Penguins. Dalun Smith (175-G-81) converted a layup with 0.3 seconds left but it was not the end of the story. Simon Mesritz (197-F-74) drained an unbelievable three-pointer to force overtime. Auckland looked inspired in the extra time and finalized an impressive 96:90 victory at the end. Nikola Lakatus paced the winners with 28 points. Josh Clark (185-G-83, agency: Prossin Sports) accounted for 23 points in the win. Dalun Smith poured in game-high 32 points. Matt Gillan added 17 points in defeat.
However the North Otago Penguins managed to recover to get to the semis. They defeated previously untamed Wellington Saints 91:82 to gain the Final Four spot. Dalun Smith scored 32 points, while Calum McLeod added 21 points for the Penguins to celebrate a vital win.
The North Otago Penguins will now take on three-time defending champions Waikato Titans. The Wellington Saints will play against Wellington in another intriguing clash.

CBL Finals begin in New Zealand - by Eurobasket News
The Conference Basketball League regular season came to an end with eight teams staying in the race for the title. The remaining sides were divided into Section A and B to fight for 4 available spots in the Final Four. Both sections action tipped off yesterday. In the opening day brought expected results with the favorites making their first steps towards the Final Four.
Wellington took on the Harbour Heat Reserves and recorded an 80:63 victory. Troy McLean (194-G-79) was solid with 18 points. George Le'afa (178-G-78) provided 15 points, while Corey Vessey (185-G-82) knocked down 14 in defeat. The Heat Reserves answered with 18 points from Reece Beardsall. Valance McCarthy produced 12 points in defeat.
In another Section A game the Waikato Titans tamed the Turanga Health Rising Suns 88:54 to close on the 4th straight Final Four birth. Ray Cameron notched 17 points to lead the winners. Puke Lenden (195-G-80) added 15 points for the Titans. Leityn Swann answered with 13 points for the Rising Suns.
In Section B the Wellington Saints rolled past Auckland 89:80. Arthur Trousdell (203-F/C-81, college: Cameron) came up with 25 points, while Matt Te Huna (190-G-83) scored 17 for the winners. Josh Clark (185-G-83, agency: Prossin Sports) had 17 points for Auckland. Daniel Kral delivered 14 points in the loss.
Finally the North Otago Penguins upset the Western Bay Suns 95:92 behind 36 points from Matt Gillan (197-F-80). Dalun Smith (175-G-81) provided 23 points in the win. The Bay Suns answered with 25 points from Eru Wills. Whare Bidois had 22 points in defeat.

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NIGERIA

First Deepwater Discovery Battle for Supremacy: First Bank survives Delta Scares - by Olusegun Ikuesan
It was be divine providence that reigning Nigeria national women league champion, First Bank basketball club of Lagos escape defeat in the hands of Delta Force basketball club of Asaba in the opening day of the First Deepwater Discovery Battle for Supremacy Basketball tournament holding at the Sports Hall of the University of Lagos Sports Centre, Akoka, Lagos.

The Lateef Folami tutored Asaba, Delta State-based Force led the floor right from the blast of the referees whistle only to bow in the last quarter after winning comfortably in the first three quarters (17-15, 15-09, 14-12 and 10-21) to the Adewumi Aderemi coached First Bank Elephant Girls.

Delta Force inspirational guard, Magdalene Mukato led the floor with 18 points and 5 rebounds while her teammate Nkechi Akashile poured in 13 points and 4 rebounds, First Bank Vera Angwe led her teammates with 12 points, forward Ezine James added 10 points and 3 rebounds while Nigeria Senior Women national team forward, Chioma Udeaja grabbed 9 rebounds to redeem the image of the banker who won with just one point margin of 57-56.

First Bank also narrowly beat Delta Force on the board with a total 39 rebounds to Delta 35.

...Yusuf 29 points failed Pillars as Union Bank romp to 83-79 points win

Ibrahim Adamu Yusuf was spectacular in his side Kano Pillars basketball club 83-79 points lose to Union Bank basketball club of Lagos in the second game of the First Deepwater Discovery Battle for Supremacy tournament.

The Stallion boys were clearly ahead in the first three quarters of the tension soaked battle for supremacy having lost twice to the Pillars this season (21-19, 25-12 and 24-21) with Ibrahim inspiring the Pillars back to reckoning in the last quarter with a big win of 27-15 but this late rally was not enough to serve the day for them as they bow to the bankers by 83-79 points to set up a day-2 game against Niger Potters basketball club of Minna.

Ibrahim Yusuf led the floor with 29 points, 4 rebounds and 3 assists while the duo of Haruna Maitama and Matthew Omoniya added 18 and 15 points respectively.

Kingsley Aguara led Union Bank challenge with 14 points and 4 rebounds, Pierre Ebongue contributed 13 points, 3 rebounds and 2 steal just as the duo of Baba Jibril and Michael Ani added 12 and 10 points respectively with Michael Ohiero giving 5 assists.

Union Bank will take on fellow Atlantic conference club, Ebun Comets basketball club with a view of paying them back in their coin after suffering a 2-1 record in the hands of the Ayo Bakare tutored Comets.

...Bad day for Sunshine bow to Dolphins 54-41

The hope of Sunshine Angels basketball club of Akure to clinch the star-prize money of the First Deepwater Discovery Battle for Supremacy suffers a huge set back on the opening day as Wale Aboderin Dolphins handed the Coach Andrew Isokpehi girls the biggest defeat of the day of 54-41 points.

Dolphins won three of the quarters leaving the Angels from Akure with just one (11-10, 06-16, 21-03 and 16-12).

Dolphins battle First Bank in the last game of Day-2 of the tournament while Sunshine and Delta Force slug it out in the second match of the day.

...Potters edge past Comets 66-56

Niger Potters basketball club and Nigeria senior national men team guard, Abubakar Usman led his team onslaught against Ebun Comets basketball club of Lagos in the first day of hostility of the First Deepwater Discovery Battle fro Supremacy tournament with a 66-56 points win.

Usman scored a double double of 20 points, 11 rebounds and 7 assist to send warning signal to other would-be title contenders.

Potters showed that they are in Lagos for business as they dominated the game in all four quarters with Comets always struggling from behind (15-13, 14-13, 10-07 and 27-23).

Potters who also beat the Ayo Bakare tutored Comets on the board with 37 rebounds against Comets 22 will today confront Pillars in a grudge game having lost to the Pillars by 59-58 points in a premier league pairing in Minna.

Comets youthful guard Deji Egbeyemi led his teammates with 16 points, 4 rebounds, 2 assists and 2 steals.

Day-1 Results:

First bank 57-56 Delta Force

Union Bank 83-79 Kano Pillars

Dolphins 54-41 Sunshine Angels

Ebun Comets 56-66 Niger Potters

Day-2 Games:

Niger Potters Vs Kano Pillars

Sunshine Angels Vs Delta Force

Union Bank Vs Ebun Comets

First Bank Vs Dolphins

Day-3 Games:

First Bank Vs Sunshine Angels

Ebun Comets Vs Kano Pillars

Dolphins Vs Delta Force

Union Bank Vs Niger Potters

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PANAMA

PORTUGAL

CAB keeps fixing its roster - by Luis Rocha
CAB sign 3 players, Jake Chrisman, Bobby Madison (198-F-82, agency: Duran International, college: W.Michigan) and Carlos Seixas (192-G-72). Madison is a forward that shoots very well , Seixas a portoguese veteran that can play 1 or 2, and Chrisman a tall guy (2,06) from Brigham Young University, who shoots well from outside that certainly will play also in the painted area. CAB is forming the roster, and by the look of it, they are up to a good place in LPB. Last season wasnt the best , but this next one they will try their best to achieve a better position.

Efes Pilsen World Cup: Nihad Djedovic too strong for Portuguese - by Eurobasket News
Portugal - Bosnia and Herzegovina 64-83

Portugal suffered defeat in the first game of Efes World Cup 2008, which started yesterday in Turkish city Konya. At the opening day of the Efes Cup Portugal met tough Bosnia and Herzegovina, which showed pretty good performance. Except of very beginning, Bosnia was the team which dominated.

Portugal entered into this game with strong willingness to compete against Bosnians. It resulted with plus one for Portuguese after ten minutes. During the following quarter Nihad Djedovic (198-G-90, agency: Beo Basket) and his teammates woke up. They intensified defense stopping Portugal on just 9 points in this period. After triple by Milan Milosevic (205-F-85), Bosnia grabbed 26-35 and later extended it to plus 11. Mostly owing to Andrade Fenrandes and Oliveria Marcal, Portugal threatened in third quarter coming on minus 7 before the last ten minutes. However, Bosnians put into the fifth gear ending the last stanza 12-14 for the final 64-83.

Nihad Djedovic was totally unstoppable in this game. He played 29 minutes draining 23 points including 4 rebounds. He was a way better than the others in Bosnia as Kenan Bajramovic (206-F-81, agency: Beo Basket) followed him 12 points, 5 boards and 4 assists. Mirza Teletovic (205-F-85, agency: Beo Basket) had 10 points and 4 rebounds. Andrade Fenrandes shined for the loosing side netting 18 points. Oliveria Marcal had 12 while Gomes Da Santos stopped on 11. In the next round Bosnia will take on Great Britain while Portugal will meet the hosts Turkey.

Portugal - Bosnia and Herzegovina 64-83
(17-16, 9-21, 26-22, 12-24)

Portugal: Andrade Fenrandes 18, Oliveria Marcal 13, Gomes Da Santos 11
Bosnia: Nihad Djedovic 23 (4 rebs), Kenan Bajramovic 12 (5 rebs, 4 as), Mirza Teletovic 10 (4 rebs)

Soares goes to Ginasio - by Luis Rocha
Ginasio Figueirense signs Joaquim Soares (198-F-83). This youg player has a lot of potencial , but so far he didnt took all he can from himself. Now he will play for Ginasio after a desapointing season in Vagos whre he had only a few minutes. Coach Salvador looks to replace Sergio Correia with this signing, and hopes that Soares can finally made a season more successfull than the last. Ginasio that also get Jose Costa (187-G-73), a veteran with great quality that can lead the team from the point guard position, hopes that Soares find hes spot in position 2 or 3 and help the team.

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PUERTO RICO

SAUDI ARABIA

Saudi Arabia U18 loses two in a row - by Eurobasket News
Saudi Arabia opened their FIBA Asia U18 Championship for Junior Men with a win over Jordan in a Group B. Jordan celebrated 110:83 in the opener for both teams. An 18-4 through the midway of the first quarter proved good enough for Jordan to take a firm grip on the game. A position from where they only grew in strength. They led 62:37 after the half and moved to three digits in the end. Louay Obeidi was unstoppable with 37 points and Abdul Aziz added 18. Yazeed Fallatah posted 19 in defeat, while Seraaj Abuswyhel scored 14.
In the second game of FIBA Asia U18 Championship for Junior Men Kazakhstan beat Saudi Arabia 101:72 in Group B. Kazakhstan, who finished just outside the semifinals at Urumqi two years ago, raced ahead 11-4 early in the first quarter and that set the tempo for the rest of the game. They finished with 23:15 in the opening quarter and never looked behind. Kazakhstan outscored Saudi Arabia with 49:27 at the halftime and looked more optimistic. In the second half the winners held off the opponents and led the game to the winning end. Omirzak Akhmet top-scored for the winners with 30 points. Alexander Tyutyunik netted 20, while Denis Degtyarev added 15. Hassan BinMohammed posted 25 in defeat and Yazaeed Fallatah nailed 21.

Jordan U18-Saudi Arabia U18 110:83
Jordan U18: Louay Obeidi 37, Abdul Aziz 18
Saudi Arabia U18: Yazeed Fallatah 19, Seraaj Abuswyhel 14

Kazakhstan U18-Saudi Arabia U18 101:72
Kazakhstan U18:Omirzak Akhmet 30, Alexander Tyutyunik 20, Denis Degtyarev 15
Saudi Arabia U18: Hassan BinMohammed 25, Yazaeed Fallatah 21

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SLOVENIA

Jokic moves to Serbia, Postojna inks Tomic - by Zeljko Zule

Misel Postojnska jama agreed terms with their former member and U-20 NT member Boban Tomic (190-G-88) ex Hrastnik.

Former U-20 European champion Igor Jokic (204-F-80, agency: VTBM/SRBM) inked with Serbian team Swisslion for one season. Last season he averaged 10,7 points, 3,7 rebounds and 1,7 assists in 27 games of Slovenian League UPC Telemach.

.

Elektra inks Sjekloca, Zlatorog target Berdiel - by Zeljko Zule

Elektra Esotech inked Montenegrin Luka Sjekloca (212-C-84, agency: Agency No 10) for the upcoming season.
Zlatorog is negotiating with former Puerto Rican NT member Miguel Ali Berdiel (198-G-83, college: Valparaiso) ex Albuqerque Thunderbirds. Last season he averaged 9,9 points, 3,7 rebounds and 4,8 assists in NBA Develepoment League.

Market News from B-1 League - by Zeljko Zule
Hrastnik inked Mitja Brecko (188-G-80) and Miha Vajdic (202-F/G-75) ex Rudar.
Rudar signed Vladimir Rizman (196-G/F-67) ex Hopsi, Peter Jovanovic (200-F-80) ex Hopsi, Blaz Rucigaj (199-F-79) ex Luka Koper, Marjan Vidovic (189-G-83) ex Elektra and Anel Blazevic (182-G-86) ex Litija.
Litija signed Dusan Adamovic (194-G-82) ex Rudar, Jan Mesic (198-F-85) ex Parklji, Tim Vrbancic (203-F/C-90) ex Parklji and Ado Salihovic (204-C-89) ex Zagorje and loaned Anze Pirc (190-F-88) and Aldin Delic (204-C-90), both from Parklji.
Rogaska added Semir Smajlovic (209-C-87) (209-C-87) ex Zlatorog.
Jance inked member Gregor Jakhel (206-F/C-88) ex Kraski zidar Jadran.
Cerknica signed Dusan Dolinar (204-C-81) ex Medvode and their former member Saso Lukic (193-F-79) ex Rudar.
Konjice inked Anze Skaza (190-G-86) ex Pakman and Uros Kozar (89) ex Casino Maribor and loaned Sandi Skrbinsek (205-C-90) and Sasa Baltic (189-G-89), both from Casino Maribor. Jure Ravnihar (190-G-76) and Tomaz Lusenc (199-F/G-74) retired.
Radenska loaned Matej Bratina (189-G-89) from Casino Maribor.
Sencur inked Ziga Ivacic (176-G-86) ex Lastovka. Matej Beranic (195-G/F-80) and Miloslav Medojevic (188-F-81) retired.

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SOUTH KOREA

Korea U18 wins two from the start - by Eurobasket News
The 20th Edition of the FIBA Asia Junior Championship started in Iran and will be held from August 28 through September 5. The tourney will enjoy the participation of fifteen teams. They were divided into 4 preliminary groups. China, Japan, Hong Kong and India got into Group A. Group B comprised South Korea, Saudi Arabia, Kazakhstan and Syria. Chinese Taipei, Philippines, UAE and Lebanon got into Group C. Finally hosting Iran, Malaysia, Jordan and made up for Group D. China celebrated the victory in the 19th edition of the competition held in Urumqi City.
Korea U18 celebrated the win in the opener against Kazakhstan 65:62. Korea won the first two quarters but had difficulties in the third period. Kazakhstan pushed the tempo for 51:49 in the third period but Korea managed to win the last quarter and the game itself. Lim Jongill led the winners with 19 points while Jang Jaeseok added 13. Alexander Leodovskikh top-scored in the losing effort with 17 points. Anton Arsenyev netted 15 and Alexander Tyutyunik scored 11.
In the second game Korea beat Jordan 78:69. Jordan went ahead 10:4 early in the game but Korea staged a 17-5 run midway through the quarter to move ahead. Korea never looked behind later and won the game. Lim Jongill top-scored for the winners with 29 points and Kim Yumin added 15. Louay Obeidi ended up with 32 points, whilst Odai Abuqamar posted 14.

Korea U18-Kazakhstan U18 65:62
Korea U18: Lim Jongill 19, Jang Jaeseok 13
Kazakhstan U18: Alexander Leodovskikh 17, Anton Arsenyev 15, Alexander Tyutyunik 11

Korea U18-Jordan U18 78:69
Korea U18: Lim Jongill 29, Kim Yumin 15
Jordan U18: Louay Obeidi 32, Odai Abuqamar 14

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SWITZERLAND

Changes in Lausanne Basket - by Eurobasket News
Lausanne Basket agreed terms with British player Brendon Polyblank (197-G/F-78, college: Texas St.-San Marcos), who arrives from Wellington Saints (New Zealand). Polyblank already has nice experience from Switzerland as a player of Herens Basket and BBC Monthey. As soon as Lausanne signed Polyblank, the team decided to release Irish player Colin O'Reilly (197-F-84, college: Post). Most probably O'Reilly will continue career in some other club in Switzerland of French N1. He played last season for German Freiburg adding 11.1 ppg, 5.4 rpg and 2 spg.

Forward / power forward Harvey Van Stein (197-F-78, agency: Regeneracom Sports, college: Cent.Conn.St.) requested to leave the club in order to play in Greek A1 league. Lausanne gave a green light to the player but with buy-out fee. The amount is not officially announced. Van Stein joined Lausanne in January this year from British team Paws London Capitals. He played 10 games in LNA averaging 11.7 ppg, 4.3 rpg, 1.4 apg and 1.8 spg. Before Lausanne and London Capitals, Van Stein used to play for Cajasur Montilla, Caja Rural Mellia, Korihait, Den Helder and Breda. He graduated at Central Connecticut University in 2001.

Lausanne already called David Aliu (198-F-81, college: Morehead St.), who will spend one month try-out period with the team. Aliu plays on the same position as Van Stein, 3 and 4. He is coming from British team Everton Tigers where he for 33 games in BBL averaged 15.8 ppg, 5.9 rpg and 1.7 apg. A year before he played for Thor Thorl on Iceland finishing Express league as a second scorer with 23.6 ppg. He was named 'Eurobasket.com All-Icelandic League Bosman player of the Year -07'. Aliu was a member of British National Team from 2004 to 2005.

Nyon inks player with NBA experience - by Dimitri Toumayeff
Due to medical reasons, Sdent BBC Nyon decided to cut Donte MINTER (1985, 203, 4-5). To replace him, the very ambitious LNA club inked Ivan McFARLIN (1982, 203, 4-5). McFARLIN graduated from Oklahoma State University in 2005 before spending his first season overseas in French ProB (JSF Nanterre). Since then, McFARLIN has mostly played in Turkey, but also played a dozen game for the Philadelphia 76ers during the 2006-07 season.

Jules AW leaves Switzerland - by Dimitri Toumayeff
The very talented Jules AW (1986, 200, 3-4) had to to back to his native Senegal. He asked to be released, due to major family reasons. Sdent BBC Nyon agreed to let him go back to his family in Dakar. Five weeks remain until the beginning of the season in Switzerland, which should be enough time to find another forward, eventually. Following Donte MINTER's departure (medical reasons), Coach Occansey already 'lost' his second player.

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TPBL

TPBL - CYPRESS ,TX SYNERGY ANNOUNCES ROSTER UPDATES - by Chris Cardenas

Cypress,Tx - The Cypress Synergy has made new changes to its roster and is ready to announce to Texas that they are ready for the 2009 TPBL season to kick off. The Synergy in '08 had some pretty good showings vs. Lake Jackson and Houston PTS and feel they can compete for the 2009 TPBL championship. Here is the 2009 roster for the CYPRESS,TX SYNERGY:

Daniel Neely 6'3 (Houston Baptist Univ.) , Tyree Jackson 6'1 (Jacksonville Univ.), Kendrick Gamble 6'3 (Monterey Peninsula college), John Carswell 5'7 (Univ. @Buffalo), Kevin Hampton 6'7 (Naval Academy), Steve Walton 6'3 (Iowa Weslyan), Larry Allaway 6'0 (TCU), Danny Anderson 5'11 , Jonathon Tarver 5'10 , Gabriel Igwala 6'6 , Shawn Gilbert 6'1, darryl Walker 6'5.

If you have a good team, and your wanting to further your career and possibly get looked at by other leagues come join the TPBL. The TPBL has brought good quality family entertainment to our state for 8 yrs now and we're gonna make '09 the best yet. for more information on entering your team call 325-763-6630 or email cardenas_chris@yahoo.com.
2009 team entry deadline is November 1st !

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TURKEY

Efes Pilsen World Cup: Hidayet Turkoglu paces Turkey vs Great Britain - by Eurobasket News
Turkey - Great Britain 82-58

It was joyful first day of Efes Pilsen World Cup 2008 for Turkey. Hidayet Turkoglu (206-F-79) and his teammates registered extremely easy victory against Great Britain. In the first game of this prestigious tournament in Konya Bosnia outplayed Portugal 83-64. As a reminder, Team Turkey demonstrated not so good performance at the Trophy Macedonia thus Efes Pilsen World Cup is a good chance to show its real power.

After almost leveled opening quarter, Turkey took control on Great Britain. NBA star Hidayet Turkoglu was in a game mood what was more than enough for Turkey in this game. The hosts were pretty good at the defensive end letting Great Britain to net only 9 points in the second frame. On the other hand they scored 18 heading into the second half with 35-27. Third period was the crucial one. Turkish players were on fire while Great Britain had only Nana Mensah-Bonsu ready to compete against the hosts. Everything outcame with huge 32-15 in this period meaning that the game was already over for Great Britain.

Hidayet Turkoglu led his team to comfortable victory scoring 23 points and dishing out 4 assists for 23 minutes. Kerem Tunceri (190-G-79) followed with 11 points and 3 assists while Oguz Savas (208-C-87) had 9 points and 4 rebounds. Great Britain got 14 points and 8 boards from Nana Mensah-Bonsu. Dzaflo Larkai (203-F, college: Bellarmine) and Jarrett Hart (194-G-80, college: Kansas St.) scored 8 points apiece. In the next round Turkey will meet Portugal while Great Britain will take one Bosnia and Herzegovina.

Turkey - Great Britain 82-58
(17-18, 18-9, 32-15, 15-16)

Turkey: Hidayet Turkoglu 23 (4 as), Kerem Tunceri 11 (3 as), Oguz Savas 9 (4 rebs)
Great Britain: Nana Mensah-Bonsu 14 (8 rebs), Dzaflo Larkai 8, Jarrett Hart 8

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U.S. VIRGIN ISLANDS

MExico 74-V.I. 71 - by David Edole

Virgin Islands Senior Men's basketball team did what previous men's team have done.. Play Mexico tough but lose in a nail bitter. The men from Americas Paradise lost to Mayans, 74-71, in day two of Centrobasket that is held in Cancun Mexico. The VI team at one point in the third trailed by 16 points before mountain a furious come back.
The VI team led 23-22 after the first period but Mexico responded with a 19-7 second frame to take 41-30 lead at the half.
Mexico scored the first five points in the third to balloon the lead to 16 points, 46-30. But a jumper by Kevin Sheppard (182-G-79, agency: Paris Global Sports, college: Jacksonville) put an end to a long scoring drought by the VI. Sheppard field goal triggered 20-7 run that pulled the VI with three 53-50.
Mexico answered that run with a pair of baskets to lead at the end of the third, 58-53. The VI challenged Mexico hard in the final frame coming within one twice but could not get over the hump.
For the VI the starters provided most of the scoring with Cuthbert Victor (196-G-83, college: Murray St.) leading the way with 24 points and eight boards. Sheppard added 16 and Jason Edwin (196-G/F-81, agency: Scorers 1st Sportmanagement, college: Kent St.), whom took only eight shots, chipped in with 15. Kitwana Rhymer tallied 12 points and nine boards before fouling out.
Jesus Rames led four Mexicans in double figures with 18 points. Raymond Castillo and Anthony Pedroza had 14 each and Gustavo Ayon tallied 12.
The VI will face El Salvador on Friday at 4:30 pm to close out the preliminary play. El Salvador lost to Dominican Republic 106-41 in the earlier contest.

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UKRAINE

Ukraine lose third in a row in Tallinn - by Eurobasket News

Ukraine - Israel 84:96

Ukraine tip off their EuroBasket Qualification campaign against Turkey on Wednesday. Israel take on Great Britain at home on the same day.

Ukraine: Artur Drozdov 21, Sergiy Lishchuk 18

Israel: Yaniv Green 19, Lior Eliyahu 18, Yotam Halperin 16

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UNITED KINGDOM

USBL

Devin Brown will be Back in New Orleans for the 2008-09 NBA Campaign - by Surujh Roopnarine
Former USBL and D-League Standout Devin Brown (6'5''-G/F-78, college: UTSA) signed a contract with the New Orleans Hornets. Brown, a six year NBA veteran, spent last season with Cleveland where he averaged 7.5 points, 3.4 rebounds and 2.2 assists in 78 games. As an undrafted free Agent out of UT San Antonio in 2002, Brown pulled Double duty, earning USBL Rookie of the Year honors with the Kansas Cagerz as well as D-League Player of the Year Honors that fall with the Fayetteville Patriots of the NBDL. For his NBA career, Brown has averaged 7.5 points, 3.0 rebounds and 1.6 assists in 352 games with Cleveland, Denver, New Orleans/Oklahoma City, San Antonio and Utah. Browns most productive NA season came with NOH/OKC during the 2006-07 season where he appeared in 58 games and averaged career highs of 11.6 points, 4.3 rebounds and 2.6 assists while shooting 42.0% from the field.

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VENEZUELA

Torres and Romero ready for friendly match in Tarvisio, Italy - by Francisco Vega
Barquisimeto, Venezuela.- Venezuelans Oscar Torres (195-F/G-76) and Hector Romero (202-F-80) are active in a private facility down at Tarvisio, Italy, where their new team, Snaidero Udine, decided to install their preseason headquarters towards the 2008-2009 season of Lega A, for which both players were signed. Snaidero Udine will face Ljubljana of Slovenia on Friday night.

Both players saw action in the LPB 2008 playoffs as members of Marinos de Anzoategui, but a minor knee injury prevented Torres from helping his team reach the Finals. They have a daily preparation based on gym work, warmup at the complex's pool and contact with the ball, physical and tactical work during the afternoon.

The 31-year old forward Torres comes from a good season with UPIM Fortitudo Bologna in which he shared time as a starter and the sixth man, while Romero started solid for the modest Legea Scafati, 13.0 points and 6.9 rebounds per match in 10 games, prior to signing with the Italian champions Montepaschi Siena, where he did not get the same amount of minutes and wasn't even called to the bench in any playoff match.

Torres played in the South American Championship of Puerto Montt, Chile, with Venezuela's Senior NT, after getting the call from new head coach Nelson Solorzano . However, Romero allegued fatigue to skip the tournament and later on attempted to go to the Las Vegas Summer League NBA Camp to play for the Memphis Grizzlies, but could not go due to visa problems.

Jesus Centeno optimistic about Duros - by Francisco Vega
Barquisimeto, Venezuela.- Guard Jesus Centeno (190-G-85) is optimistic about the possibilities of Duros de Lara towards the championship title in Liga Nacional de Baloncesto 2008, though he recognizes that the season is just beginning and there are still lots of things to work on for that to happen.

'The season has just started and we've got some new players with us that we really haven't had the time to get to know their style to approach the game yet. As the season advances and the tournament goes on, we'll get together a lot more on court and everything will be better for us. This is a tremendous team and we think we have enough talent to try out for the championship title this time', he said after a two-hour morning practice at Napoleon Rodriguez Arena of Barquisimeto.

'In the past couple of years, we fell short of that objective and we got eliminated in the Semifinals by Macizos de Guayana. Thank God they decided not to play this year', he joked. 'Besides, now we have their old head coach', he added, referring to Ivan Garcia , new head coach of Duros. 'He's a great coach and we feel we're going to learn a lot from him as I'm sure he'll also learn a lot from us. It's going to be a learning year in which we'll attempt to bring in the championship title for the fans of Lara'. Duros only LNB title came back in 1992, when the league was known as Liga Superior and the teams were divided in geographic zones.

Centeno won the LPB 2008 championship as a member of Cocodrilos de Caracas and also played with Venezuela's Senior NT in the South American Championship of Puerto Montt, Chile. 'Personally, it's been one of my best years ever. I got a chance to play with the Senior NT and I hope I stay there for several years. Then I was able to win the championship with Cocodrilos and that's why I feel I gotta close up the year the best way possible, by winning also the championship here with Duros'.

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Women News

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CYPRUS - Women

Transfer news - by Chris Mammides

It seems that this year's league will be the worst ever as the competition will not be like the previous seazons, the team of Keravnos Strovolou which was the only team that could 'Give' some color in the league is downgrading and the rest of the teams do not want to follow AEL's rythms which are amazing.
The Limassol team with its Head Coach Linos Gabriel and the ex player Christos Spirou together with Branka Raca (Coach of the caddets team) have created an amazing troup of players with a lot of transfers it is worth mentioned that the top performer of the team last year, Kalia Papadopoulou is a free agent as she will not be wearing AEL's jersey this seazon, the same goes for Ersi Kiriakou, the talented player will be wearing for the next four years Halkida's jersey as she will be studing over there. The new players came are from both Cyprus and Europe, these players are the following:

Valentina Ionova (176-G-83) the Cypriot International guard just finished her studies in the States where she played for more than four years there.
Ganna Zaryts'ka (182-F-86), the Czech Republic player consider to be among the top players in her age back to her country.

Azra Becirovic (182-G-80), the Bosnian guard helped last seazon the Limasol team in its European duties

Ivona Jerkovic (200-C-84), the Serbian giant center will be the queen in the paint.

Biljana Pesovic (180-G-83), the serbian guard will be the 'gun' of the team as she comes in the team as a scoring machine.

Anca Stoenescu (171-G-80) the experienced Romanian point guard will soon become Cypriot as she got married last year with Cypriot. Anca with her experience will help a lot the Limassol team.

Milena Vukicevic (188-F/C-80), the amazing Serbian center with her experience and talent will add some more power in the paint and in the scoring.

The two Americans for the European games will be the following:

Natasha Lacy (178-G-85, college: UTEP) she was a starter in her colelge the last two seazons and she can play in both shooting guard and point
guard positions.
Elliy Sira is the last American player to sign her contract with AEL

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GERMANY - Women

Herner TC adds another East European with Nadzeya Drozd - by Cornelius Damm
The 1.DBBL newcomer of 2007/08 is making serious moves towards becoming a Play Off candidate in its second year in Germany's highest league. Herner TC announced the signing of Nadeya Drozd (170-G-83, agency: LBM Management). The quick point guard is looking forward to her debut in Germany after already playing in Poland in 2004/05 and also in her home country Belarus where she won the championship with Olimpia Grodno in 2007. Past season 2007/08 Drozd played in the strong Russian Superleague for Spartak St.Petersburg. Furthermore she also gained quite some international experience playing for Belarus Youth and Women National Teams. She was a member of the successful Belarus Team that won Bronze in the last Women European Championship in Chieti (ITA) in 2007. After the arrival of the two Czechs Anna Adlerova (181-G/F-85) and Katarina Flasarova (170-G-85) who both came from Leipzig and the Belarus as well DBBL great Katja Zberch (189-C-78, agency: LBM Management) who joined the team after a year with Chemnitz, Drozd is already the fourth East European newcomer in Herne lifting the team in the positive situation to still have its two import spots opened four weeks before the seasons gets under way.

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SERBIA - Women

Jovica Antonic: More experienced team won last night - by Dragan Jankovski
Serbian senior National Team suffered defeat in the first game of Eurobasket 2008 qualifications. Serbia was much better until the last ten minutes when experienced Greece took control on the hosts. Head coach of Team Serbia Jovica Antonic was not unsatisfied with performance of his players.

'Greece registered very important victory thanks to valuable experience of its players. They played mature at the very end taking this one totally deserved. Greece played consistent during the entire time without any bad moments, except of the very beginning. Evanthia Maltsi (180-F-78) was really good. She played on extremely high level having pretty good shot percentage. I really don't have to say anything bad to my players. They fight as much as they can but as I said experience of the Greeks, especially at the defensive end, was decisive factor in this game. We have to forget it as soon as possible. Our next rival is Belgium and we have to prepare for that game' - said Jovica Antonic.

Hero of the game Evanthia Maltsi couldn't hide happiness after victory of her team.

'Serbia played pretty good but it was not enough to beat us. We came to Nis to take this one and we succeeded. We knew that we are better and experienced team and that experience brought us a victory at the end' - said Evanthia Maltsi, who ended this game 29 points and 4 rebounds.

Next game of Team Serbia is scheduled for Saturday at 20h in Belgium.

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SWITZERLAND - Women

Canti Riva Basket Ceresio inks Keisha Moore and Polona Oberc - by Eurobasket News
Canti Riva Basket Ceresio agreed terms with two new players for the upcoming season.

The first one is American power forward / center Keisha Moore (189-C-83, agency: LBM Management, college: Washington St.), who played last season in Lithuanian team Arvi Marijampole. He had 17 appearances in BWBL finishing it as a fifth rebounder with 7.4 rpg. She also recorded 11 ppg, 1.1 apg and 1.3 spg. At the end of the season she got the award 'Eurobasket.com All-Lithuanian LMKL Honorable Mention -08'. Her team was runner-up in regular season later reaching play-off semifinals. Season before that Moore spent in Slovenian team KED Panter Ilirija from Ljubljana. She played 9 games in Slovenian A1 adding 14.4 ppg, 9.1 rpg, 1.3 apg and 2.8 spg. She was named 'Eurobasket.com All-Slovenian 1A Defensive Player of the Year -07' as well as 'Eurobasket.com All-Slovenian 1A 1st Team -07'. Moore spent one year at Washington State University (2005/2006).

The second player who put signature on one-year deal with Canti Riva Basket Ceresio is Slovenian Polona Oberc (173-G/F-80, college: LIU Brooklyn). 28-year old guard / small forward spent last season in Italian A2 team Cantina Sociale Broni where she averaged 14.3 ppg and 3.8 rpg. Interesting is thatz these two players played together in KED Panter Ilirija on season 06/07. Oberc played 10 games for Ilirija recording 12.9 ppg, 2.8 rpg, 2.1 apg and 1.4 spg. As Moore, she also spent one year on University in USA but on LIU Brooklyin. She had 6.1 ppg, 3.9 rpg and 2.9 apg for 29 games for her school.

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WNBA - Women

WNBA resumes action - by Eurobasket News
Five games were scheduled for yesterday after the WNBA resumed the action after the Olympic Games break. The San Antonio Silver Stars picked up from where they left before the break. They stormed past the defending champions Phoenix Mercury 77:55 in Arizona to keep the best record in the league. The Mercury leaders looked exhausted after the Olympic Games tournament and could not prevent the hosts from falling short at the end. Diana Taurasi had 13 points, while Cappie Pondexter added only 4 points in defeat. In the meantime the Silver Stars rolled confidently led by Sophia Young (6'1''-F-83, college: Baylor). The center tallied 18 points to pace the visitors to 19-9 record. Ann Wauters (6'5''-C-80) provided 15 points and 9 boards, while Rebecca Hammon had 13 points for the winners. The Silver Stars used a massive 25:6 rally in the second frame to accumulate a 24-point advantage at halftime. They never looked back again and secured the stunning win.
The Indiana Fever failed to come up with decent performance as they fell to the Connecticut Sun 58:84 on home soil. Tamika Whitmore (6'2''-C/F-77, college: Memphis) knocked down 15 points to pace the Sun to 17-10 record in the East. Asjha Jones (6'2''-F-80, college: Connecticut) added 14 points, while Kerri Gardin and Sandrine Gruda produced 11 points each for the winners. Tully Bevilaqua and Tammy Sutton-Brown responded with 9 points apiece for the Fever. Indiana lost the fourth time in the last five games.
Candace Parker (6'4''-F/C-86, college: Tennessee) put on a sizzling performance and the Los Angeles Sparks held off the Sacramento Monarchs 78:63 at home. The sensational rookie tallied 19 points, 9 boards and 5 blocks to stay in the rhythm after the Olympic Games triumph. Lisa Leslie (6'5''-C-72, college: USC) was helpful with 14 points, while Delisha Milton-Jones had 11 points and 8 rebounds for the winners. Nicole Powell (6'2''-G/F-82, college: Stanford) replied with 12 points for the Monarchs. Kara Lawson nailed 10 points as Sacramento slipped to 15-13 record. The visitors led by 4 points after the starting period but the Sparks rallied fast in the second and third frame and built a massive 19-point advantage before the final stanza.

Standings

WNBA Western Standings

1. S.Antonio SS	18-7
2. Seattle S.	16-8
3. Connect. S.	16-10
4. Detroit S.	15-9
5. L.Angeles S.	15-9
6. Sacram. M.	13-12
7. New York L.	12-10
8. Houston C.	12-12
9. Minnesota L.	10-12
10. Phoenix M.	10-14
11. Indiana F.	9-13
12. Chicago Sky	9-14
13. Washingt. M.	9-15
14. Charlotte S.	0-0