EUROBASKET NEWS REPORT - 8/6/2008

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Men News

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ABA

Savannah ABA team has a new name, Los Angeles Push announced new sponsor - by Eurobasket News
Levi K. Williams, co-owner of the new ABA expansion basketball team that begins play in December today announced that the team name will be the Savannah PRIDE. According to Williams, 'We chose this name because it represents strength and family, both of which are reflective of our family and the families of Savannah and its surrounding communities. We are proud to be here and take pride in being a part of the community.' For more information, email williamslevi@hotmail.com, visit www.savannahpride.com or www.abalive.com.

The ABA Los Angeles Push has named The House of Spice Event Catering as their official catering company. Randolph Brown and Bill Henderson will provide catering at all Push sponsored events. The House of Spice menu flexibility will give Push fans a taste of luxury at every home game and at every special event.
The Push has also named 'That New DJ' and L.M.B.T.R. Inc as its official DJ for all Push sponsored events. Craig Dillard will produce the sounds that Push fans hear throughout the year. His subtle mix of contemporary pop, jazz and hip hop will encourage an atmosphre of fun and excitement.
In further news, the LA Push has named Anthony Walsh as its Director of the Push League. Mr. Walsh will directly oversee the creation and implementation of the Push League. The Push League is a 16-city basketball league from June through December complete with free anger management counseling and resources. There will be six age divisions; each age division will have a city champion that will go on to compete for the national city champions in each age division. This will be truly an historic event. The Push League will kick off its signup drive Labor Day, 2008. For more information, email mdonye@hotmail.com or visit www.abalivec.com.

Last team news and transactions - by Gianni Pascucci
The American Basketball Association (ABA) announced that the expansion basketball team that begins play in December in Savannah, Georgia, will be named the Savannah Pride. The Bahama Pro Show team re-signed Jamal Bain and Jarris Kentle (6'4''-G-80) for their 2008-09 roster The ABA Los Angeles Push officially named LaShun McDaniel as the team Head Coach.

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ADRIATIC LEAGUE

News from Partizan, Bosna, Cibona and Olimpija - by Dragan Jankovski
Reining Serbian and Adriatic league champion Partizan Igokea extended contract with power forward Novica Velickovic (205-F-86) until summer 2010. Velickovic, who is currently important part of the project of Serbian senior National Team, had a valid contract for one more year but both sides agreed to extend it for another one. It is the last prove that Velikovic won't leave the Black-and-whites this summer as it was mentioned over the past month. Except of Pekovic, Kecman and Palacio, Velickovic also had an extremely important role in his team last season. He played 22 games in Euroleague finishing it as a fifth rebounder with 6.9 rpg. At the same time he had 10.6 ppg and 1.6 apg. Almost the same digits Velickovic registered in Adriatic league as well as in Serbian Superleague.
As a reminder Partizan Igokea already agreed terms with Jan Vesely (210-F/C-90), Aleksandar Rasic (195-G-84, agency: Beo Basket) and Vukasin Aleksic (185-G-85, agency: Beo Basket) at the off-season.

After signing of Nikola Vucurovic (200-G/F-80) and Ivan Ivanovic (205-F-80, agency: Beo Basket), Bosnian champion Bosna ASA BHT added guard Stanley Burrell (191-G-84) to its roster. Burell is coming from USA University Xavier as a All-Atlantic 10 Defensive Player of the Year -08. He played 37 games for Xavier at his senior year averaging 9.7 ppg, 2.2 rpg and 3.8 apg.

Cibona Zagreb agreed terms with American point guard Earl Calloway (190-G-83, college: Indiana). The player spent last season in NBDL team Fort Wayne Mad Ants averaging 19 ppg, 5.1 rpg and 2 spg for 50 games.

Union Olimpija inked center Vladimir Golubovic (212-C-86) from Vojvodina Srbijagas. Golubovic spent some time at NBA Summer league in Orlando and later in Las Vegas showing pretty good performance. He was mentioned as a replacement for Nikola Pekovic in Partizan Igokea during the last couple of weeks. However, it seems that head coach Dusko Vujosevic will try to find another center to fulfill a huge gap in the paint which happened after Pekovic's leaving to Panathinaikos.

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AUSTRALIA

Aaron Bruce agrees with Adelaide 36ers - by Eurobasket News
Former Baylor standout Aaron Bruce (191-G-84) will have a chance to continue his dream of playing professional basketball after signing a two-year contract with the Adelaide 36ers of the National Basketball League in his native Australia.

Bruce finished his stellar college career as the seventh-leading scorer in Baylor history with 1,330 points. Last season, Bruce helped guide the Bears to just their fourth 20-win season in school history and their first trip to the NCAA Tournament since 1987-88.

He was a three-time All-Big 12 selection, including third team honors as a freshman in 2005. Bruce, who led the nation's freshman in scoring in 2004-05, was also named Big 12 Freshman of the Year by the Kansas City Star and San Antonio Express-News that same season.

Bruce is a veteran of several Australian national teams that included representing the Australian Boomers at the 2006 FIBA World Championships in Japan.

Australia's National Basketball League (NBL) was formed in 1979 with nine teams. The 13-team league's season runs between October and April.

Courtesy of www.cstv.com

Greg Vanderjagt joins Gold Coast Blaze - by Eurobasket News
Gold Coast Blaze has signed former Townsville big man Greg Vanderjagt (213-C-84) as their eleventh player for the coming season.

The 213cm centre, who has played the last five years with Townsville, will play a key role for the Blaze this season as back-up to the team's already impressive big-man line-up of Ben Melmeth, Casey Frank, Pero Cameron and Scott McGregor.

Vanderjagt signed to play with the Bullets earlier in May but is excited at the prospect of now lining up with the Blaze this season.

It is a great opportunity and the club has given me another chance at NBL for this season when it wasnt looking possible after what happened at Brisbane. I cant wait to contribute and do my bit in what is looking a very good basketball team, Vanderjagt said after his first training session with the Blaze on Monday morning.

Working as a Junior Basketball Development Officer in Brisbane, Vanderjagt is impressed with what he sees on the Gold Coast.

Basketball is certainly looking strong on the Gold Coast from juniors through to the elite level with the Blaze, it is an exciting time to be involved.

Having been in the league since 2004, the 24-year-old 213cm centre has plenty of experience under his belt already and has made an impressive climb from juniors through to professional basketball.

A representative of Queensland as a junior at the Australian Championships, Vanderjagt took up a basketball scholarship in 2001 to attend the Australian Institute of Sport where he stayed until 2003.

In 2004 he was selected in the Australian under-22 team to tour Europe and signed his first NBL contract with the Townsville on his return.

Greg will be a great asset to the team this year as 11th man, hes an established NBL player who will bring in some additional enthusiasm and tougher competition at training , Gold Coast Blaze Assistant Coach Mark Watkins said.

He will also be ready to play if one of our big men get injured over the season and while we dont want anyone to get injured we now have a backup plan in Greg who will be able to contribute and play good minutes if required.

Courtesy of www.nbl.com.au

USA pull narrow win against Australia - by Eurobasket News
USA - Australia 87:76

The United States National Team continued to pile up victories in the exhibition games prior to the European Championship. However the last one was the toughest so far as the USA needed to work hard to topple Australia today in Shanghai. The Aussies entered the game without their main star Andrew Bogut as he was sidelined with an injured ankle. Dwyane Wade (6'4''-G-82, college: Marquette) nailed 21 points to secure a narrow escape for the North American team. LeBron James (6'8''-F-84) knocked down 16 points, while Kobe Bryant (6'6''-G-78) added 13 for the winners. Patrick Mills (5'10''-G-88) and Chris Anstey (7'0''-C-75) answered with 13 points apiece for the Boomers. David Barlow (6'9''-F-83, college: Metro St.) had 12 points and CJ Bruton (6'2''-G-75, college: Indian Hills CC) added 11 in a losing case. The teams stayed close throughout the opening stanza. The USA managed however to claim a 22:19 advantage at the end of the first term. The Aussies loosened the grip late in the second frame and the United States capitalized. They went on an 18:4 run to clear off to a 15-point distance at halftime. David Barlow stepped up for the Boomers early in the third period. He drained a pair of three-pointers and Australia closed the gap. CJ Bruton and David Barlow once again cut the deficit to just 4 points midway through the third quarter. Dwyane Wade however netted some key baskets late in the period and the USA built a 10-point buffer heading into the final term. CJ Bruton sparked the intrigue in the game with a three-pointer in the middle of the quarter as Australia got within 8 but the United States survived the threat. The winners converted 50% from the field and forced the Aussies into 18 turnovers. The USA also had a slight advantage on the boards with 33 caroms.

USA: Dwyane Wade 22, LeBron James 16, Kobe Bryant 13
Australia: Patrick Mills 13, Chris Anstey 13

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AUSTRIA

Transfer update - by Stefan Heinrich
The Austrian Cup winner Gmunden Swans presented Anthony Fisher (191-G-83) as replacement for Ian Boylan (198-G/F-83, agency: Passing Lane, college: Cal.St. Northridge), who moved to Poland. Fischer played his senior season for Tennessee Tech and in 32 games he had 17.1ppg, 3.1rpg and 3.6apg. The Swans hope that Fisher will bring them more scoring from the PG spot, while their former PG Petter Hutter will play on the SF position in the next season.

WBC Kraftwerk Wels signed Brandon Thomas (198-G/F-84, agency: Rasmussen Services, college: Massachusetts) for the 2008/09 season. The Danish All-Star MVP played college basketball for the University of Massachusetts and he played his first pro season in Denmark for Naestved. He led the Danish league in Scoring with 24.5ppg and he shot 40.0% from 3 point range, which helped him to be voted into the All-Danish League 2nd Team and also in the All-Imports Team.

Kapfenberg Bulls found the replacement for Kevin Nelson (192-G-84, agency: Strategic Sports, college: Park) in Jeremy Fears (196-G-85, college: Bradley). The very quick and athletic Guard should help the team with his very athletic way to play. He started his College career at Ohio State but after tragic case of death in his family he moved to the NCAA II school of S. Carol - Aiken where he averaged 17ppg, 4prg and 4apg. Fears signed a 1 year contract and Kapfenberg has the option to extend the contract for another 2 seasons.

The Austrian champion of Furstenfeld announced today that Anthony Shavies (191-G-83, agency: Court Side, college: Missouri St.) and Shelton Colwell (202-F-80, agency: Court Side, college: Missouri St.) will not return to the team for the next season. Both had very good offers but they decided to look for new teams for the upcoming season.

The Austrian National Team Center Martin Kohlmaier (218-C-84, agency: Octagon) signed in the Spanish LEB with UB La Palma. Kohlmaier had a very succesful season for St. Polten where he had 17.4ppg, 7.8rpg and 1.2bpg.

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BAHRAIN

Bahrain Friendship Games - by Walter Neto

BAHRAIN'S national carrier Gulf Air has been announced as the official airline of the first Bahrain-Philippines Ambassador's Friendship Games. The airline will be flying professional basketball team the Sta Lucia Realtors into Bahrain for the Games, which are set to take place on August 21 and 22 at the Umm Al Hassam sports complex.

The Philippine Basketball Association (PBA) squad will be playing against national league champions Al Muharraq Club on the Games' opening day, and then take on Cup champions Al Manama the following evening. 'Gulf Air, as the flag carrier of the kingdom, is always proactive in extending its support to such activities, be it sports or charity,' said Gulf Air general manager Abdulmalik Al Saei.

'Bringing together such popular and winning teams from Bahrain and the Philippines not only encourages team spirit and camaraderie, but also provides opportunities to learn from each other and develop skills. We are very happy to be playing a key role in this event.'Being organised by the Philippines Embassy in cooperation with the Bahrain Basketball Association, the Games are expected to bring Filipino basketball aficionados a piece of PBA action.

Expressing his gratitude for the sponsorship, Philippine Ambassador Eduardo Pablo Maglaya said: 'I am extremely thankful and overjoyed for the support that our project has received from Gulf Air. The national carrier's genuine and proactive step in supporting sports is truly commendable. The forthcoming Games will provide a great boost to the already-popular game of basketball on the island.'

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BARBADOS

Standings

Premier L. Standings

1. Lakers	11-3
2. Bulls	9-5
3. Cavaliers	9-5
4. Deacons	8-6
5. Sonics	8-6
6. Warriors	6-8
7. Pinelands	4-10
8. Tridents	1-13

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BELGIUM

U20 EC, division B: Belgium outsmarts Estonia for top of Group C - by Eurobasket News
U20 Belgium - U20 Estonia 86-81

In the battle between two at that moment undefeated teams Belgium succeeded to beat Estonia securing the top position in Preliminary Group C. As a reminder both teams already booked spots for the next stage on U20 European Championship division B in Targu Mures. This game was very important as the winner will transfer the victory to the Qualifying Round. Belgium showed slightly better performance in the first quarter ending it 28-24. Mostly owing to Geoffrey Hockins

(188-G-88) Belgians grabbed advantage of seven points in 16th minute but their joy didn't last long. Sten Sokk (181-G-89) and Tanel Kurbas (195-F-88) shined in Estonia and together with Rain Raadik (204-C-89) created 13-5 run for 47-48 at the half time. Third stanza was totally leveled. It was basket after basket game which ended 14-14. Game is decided with minute and a half to go when Boris Penninck (205-C-88) hit a jump shot with a foul netting the free throw after that. At the next possession Estonians missed while Geoffrey Hockins

got fouled making two FTs for 82-76 with 00:59 remaining.

Geoffrey Hockins

was totally the best player for the winning side collecting 22 points, 7 rebounds and 7 assists. He made 6 of 6 attempts for FG2, 1 of 5 for 3-pts and 7 of 8 from the free throw line. Thomas Dreesen (201-F-88, agency: Court Side) was behind him scoring 15 points while Ludovic Pourtoit (182-G-88) and Olivier Troisfontaines (194-G/F-89) added 11 points and 6 rebounds each. Tanel Kurbas once again was the leading player of his team but this time his 24 points wasn't enough for Estonia. Baltic team also got 15 points, 5 boards and 6 assists from Sten Sokk while Timo Eichfuss (199-F-88) also had 15 points but with 4 rebounds. In the next round Belgium will meet Switzerland while Estonia already played its four games in Preliminary Round.

U20 Belgium - U20 Estonia 86-81
(28-24, 19-24, 14-14, 25-19)

Belgium: Geoffrey Hockins

22 (7 rebs, 7 as), Thomas Dreesen 15, Ludovic Pourtoit 11 (6 rebs), Olivier Troisfontaines 11 (6 rebs)
Estonia: Tanel Kurbas 24, Sten Sokk 15 (5 rebs, 6 as), Timo Eichfuss 15 (4 rebs)

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BULGARIA

Bulgaria hold off Georgia in Riga - by Eurobasket News
Bulgaria U20 - Georgia U20 90:75

Chavdar Kostov (196-G-88, agency: Interperformances) stepped up with 26 points and 7 rebounds for Bulgaria as they knocked down Georgia in the classification round of U20 European Championship in Latvia today. Bulgaria dominated the game and crafted a solid win that allowed them one step closer to securing the spot in Division A for the next year. Georgia in the meantime was not helped by a pivotal performance from Giorgi Shermadini (216-C-89, agency: Life Sports). The center tallied 24 points, 13 boards and 6 blocks but could not help his side from falling. Beka Tsivtsivadze (189-G-89) put Georgia in charge with a three-pointer early in the game but it was the last time Georgia led in the game. Bulgaria answered with a 9:0 run and drove to a 24:14 lead after the starting period. Ivan Lilov (196-F/G-88, agency: FCM) scored five points in a row for Bulgaria midway through the second term and they cleared off to a 14-point distance. Soon the gap grew to 20 points before Giorgi Shermadini and Giorgi Gulisabedashvili (194-G-88, agency: Court Side) trimmed it to 15 at the interval. Bulgaria kept Georgia at safe distance throughout the third period and entered the final quarter ahead by 17. Chavdar Kostov and Pavel Marinov (196-G-88) quickly extended the margin to 21 points and Bulgaria never looked back in the fourth frame. Pavel Marinov secured 22 points for Bulgaria. Ivan Lilov added 14 points and 9 assists for the winners. Richard Matiashvili (209-C-89) had 18 points and 9 boards for Georgia. Shengelia contributed 10 points in a losing effort. Bulgaria sank 52% from the field and forced their opponents to 18 turnovers.

Bulgaria U20: Chavdar Kostov 26, Pavel Marinov 22, Ivan Lilov 14
Georgia U20: Giorgi Shermadini 24+13 boards, Richard Matiashvili 18

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COLOMBIA

"Colombian Basketball"... Who?? - by Jair Perea
While the basketball world gets ready for a very promising Olympic tournament, we are among the countries hoping to some day achieve such a high accomplishment as participating on an event of this magnitude. However, in Colombia we are far away from doing that. Thinking about Olympics or World Championship Tournaments is kind of delusional right now because we haven't been able to be part of the basketball elite of South America; nevertheless the continent.

All we have right now is a bunch of questions: will we ever reach the level of the basketball powerhouses in America? Are there enough talented players in the country? Do we have good coaches? Colombia's Federation is doing its job? Do we need better local tournaments? Do we need to send more players abroad? Do we need a good sponsorship? Do we need better planning? The answer to this question may vary depending on who you ask, but bottom line, we all know that our Male and Female teams are way better than their last performances show.

We have experienced players with vast experience not only nationally, but also overseas. Both men and women are developing their skills playing college basketball in the US, as well as professionally in Europe and South American leagues. In order to motivate those players to take part of national teams, there needs to be a well organized preparation for tournaments. As it is right now, playing for the national team is a disadvantaged situation for those who risk losing contracts opportunities, or athletic scholarships, since it's known that the federation is not able to provide a serious support for players.

There are good coaches in Colombia, but unfortunately they are not in the best position to take advantage of theircoaching knowledge, since the preparation time is very limited. It is important to recognize that despite the lack of opportunities new talented players have jumped on to the national stage, but sometimes are more the limitations than the opportunities.

In my personal opinion, I think everything should be fixed from top to bottom; in other words, it should start from the Federation itself. Regardless of who is part of the Federation's Committee, a better job needs to be done to give our players the preparation and support necessary for international competition. It is true that at this point the lack of sponsorship has a tremendous impact and finding one is probably a hard task, but not an impossible one. Colombia is a country that values quality, and basketball has always attracted people who want to watch sports.

At this point many of you might think that it is easier for me to criticize, but unfortunately all I have said is pure reality. My only intention is to help so that our basketball can be in the place it deserves. If there is any questions regarding this article, do not hesitate to contact me, questions and comments are more than welcome.

LET'S GO COLOMBIA!

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CROATIA

Italian team registers another win at the U20 European Championship - by Eurobasket News
Italy U20 - Croatia U20 88:52

Italy scored another emphatic win at the U20 European Championship in Latvia. Today they defeated Croatia at the start of the Qualifying round. Thus Italy climbed to 3-0 record in Group E, while sending Croatia to 0-3. Italy got to a better start to the game. Ferrero knocked down 8 points in the starting frame and the Azzurri grabbed a 19:12 advantage into the second period. Consecutive trebles from Costantino Cutolo (198-G/F-89) and Lorenzo D'Ercole (190-G-88) allowed Italy to claim a 13-point lead midway through the second stanza. Croatia tried to answer as Marino Sarlija (204-F/C-89) chipped in 6 points in a row and shaved the distance to 8 points. Franjo Bubalo (194-G/F-88) capped the half with a three-pointer and Croatia trailed by only 4 points 33:37. However Italy opened the second half with an 8:0 run to clear off once again. Pietro Aradori

(192-G-88) secured 9 points in the third frame and Italy built a 61:48 advantage heading into the final stanza. A 22:2 start of the fourth period from Italy sealed the outcome of this one. The Azzurri breezed to the confident victory and would now take on Ukraine tomorrow. Lorenzo D'Ercole produced 19 points to pace Italy. Pietro Aradori

had 13 points, while Costantino Cutolo canned 11 in a win. Zeljko Sakic (202-F-88) answered with 11 points for Croatia. Miro Bilan (210-C/F-89) had 9 points and 8 boards in defeat.

Italy U20: Lorenzo D'Ercole 19, Pietro Aradori

13, Costantino Cutolo 11
Croatia U20: Zeljko Sakic 11, Miro Bilan 9

Northwestern names Ivan Vujic assistant coach - by Eurobasket News
Northwestern head coach Bill Carmody has announced the addition of Ivan Vujic to the Wildcat's staff as an assistant coach. Vujic comes to NU after most recently serving as the Director of Basketball Operations at DePaul University the past two years. He begins his duties August 1.

'My staff and I are very excited to welcome Ivan to our program', Carmody said. 'I know he is excited about the opportunity to move into a full-time assistant coaching position and I believe his addition will pay dividends in recruiting as well as on the floor. He has learned from two coaches I have great respect for in Coach Homer Drew and Coach Jerry Wainwright and they could not say enough good things about him. I look forward to watching Ivan instill his work ethic and toughness in our talented big kids as well as the rest of the team.'

A native of Split, Croatia, Vujic played collegiate basketball at Valparaiso University from 1998-2000. He played center for the Crusaders for two seasons, averaging 10.6 points and 5.7 rebounds per game while helping lead the team to a pair of Mid-Continent Conference regular season and tournament titles and two ensuing NCAA tournament appearances. He went on to earn a Bachelor of Arts degree with a minor in physical education from Valparaiso in 2006.

Before joining the Crusaders, Vujic played two seasons at Vincennes (Ind.) University from 1996-98. Vujic was named a fourth-team Junior College All-American by Street & Smiths Basketball Magazine before his second season at Vincennes.

Upon the completion of his collegiate career, Vujic played four professional seasons in Europe and Puerto Rico before coaching the B.C. Dubrava-Zagreb club team. He then returned to Valparaiso where he served as an assistant coach for the 2005-06 season before spending the past two seasons at DePaul.

'Speaking for everyone in the DePaul community, I would like to congratulate Ivan on his appointment as a full-time assistant coach to Bill Carmody s staff at Northwestern University', said DePaul head coach Jerry Wainwright. 'Ivan has an outstanding future in the coaching profession and we all wish him the best.'

Courtesy of http://sports.yahoo.com

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CYPRUS

Another one for the Champions!!! - by Nasios Orinos
People in Κeravnos seem to be persistent to win another one. After the announced of J.J Montgomery, last night Keravnos has signed Lithuanian Aivaras Kiausas.
Aivaras, is coming from ASCO Slask Wroclaw (Poland, starting five), where he played a total of 36 games. He also played 12 games in the ULEB Cup. He was born in 1980 and he is 1.99 cm tall. He mainly plays the 3-4 positions and he is distinguished for his fighting spirit and strong defence. In 2006-2007 he played in Sakalai Vilnius (Lithuania, starting five), where he played 19 games and then he moved to Gestiberica Vigo (Spain, starting five).
For those who are interested, few of his career achievements are the Lithuanian League All-Star Game Slam Dunk Contest Winner in 2007 and the Polish League All-Star Game Slam Dunk Contest Winner in 2006 and 2008.

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CZECH REPUBLIC

U20 EC, division B: Czech Republic suffers serious defeat against Germany - by Eurobasket News
U20 Czech Republic - U20 Germany 57-100

It seems that no one is able to stop the Germans on the U20 European Championship division B in Targu Mures. They easily get through the Preliminary Group B with score 4-0. On the other side Czech Republic has a small chance to reach the next stage. In the last round Czechs will have to beat Azerbaijan, what is easier part of this calculation. The second part is that Sweden will have to suffer defeat against Ireland, what would be counted as a big surprise.

Germany controlled glasses at the both ends of the court. After 40 minutes they stopped on 15 + 35 while Czechs had just 6 + 21. At the same time the Germans had solid stroke from behind the arc as well as for FG2, what made this job even easier for them. Germany opened this game in style making 9-18 after 5 minutes. Very soon Tibor Pleiss

(215-F/C-89) and Lucca Staiger (196-G-88) took care took care for 18-32. In the second frame Czechs had poor performance at the offensive end which Germans exploited to create huge 29-54 at the half time. After that moment it was clear that there is no any hope for Czech Republic until the end. Tibor Pleiss

and Philipp Schwethelm (200-F-89, agency: Court Side) continued with good decisions in offense while one the other side Vojtech Hruban (197-F-89) was the only one who tried to do something more for his team. Unfortunately he didn't get any help from his teammates which resulted with 43 points defeat at the end.

Tibor Pleiss

once again paced Germany to victory registering double-double 19 points and 12 rebounds. Lucca Staiger posted 17 points while Philipp Schwethelm delivered 12. Vojtech Hruban was the best player in Chzech Republic scoring 17 points. The loosing side also got 10 points and 4 rebounds from Jiri Slavik (203-F-89).

U20 Czech Republic - U20 Germany 57-100
(18-32, 11-22, 21-25, 7-21)

Czech Republic: Vojtech Hruban 17, Jiri Slavik 10 (4 rebs)
Germany: Tibor Pleiss

19 (12 rebs), Lucca Staiger 17, Philipp Schwethelm 12

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D.R. CONGO

Standings - D1

D1 Standings

1. Kauka	0-0
2. Onatra K.	0-0
3. Onatra B.C.	0-0
4. Lupopo	0-0
5. Molokai	0-0
6. Terreur	0-0
7. Goma Bulls	0-0
8. Virunga	0-0
9. Mazembe	0-0
10. Bakwanga	0-0
11. Kabono	0-0
12. Mbongo	0-0
13. Mambenga	0-0
14. Hammers	0-0
15. All for One	0-0

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D-LEAGUE

Bob MacKinnon named head coach of Colorado 14ers - by Eurobasket News
The Colorado 14ers announced the appointment of former Los Angeles Lakers Scout and NCAA coach Bob MacKinnon today as the new Head Coach of the 14ers.

The 14ers, a member of the NBA Development League, is the farm team of the Denver Nuggets and New Jersey Nets. The 14ers will tip off its 50-game 2008-09 season in November. MacKinnon steps in after the 14ers' first Head Coach Joe Wolf earned an NBA Call Up in April to the Milwaukee Bucks to serve as an assistant coach.

'I am extremely excited to be the next leader of the Colorado 14ers! It is a fantastic time for both the Developmental League and the 14ers, as the league continues to evolve,' said MacKinnon. 'This is a great opportunity for myself and my family to be with one of the model franchises and to be part of the great community of Broomfield within the Denver/Boulder area. We look forward to putting down roots and having a long, exciting and successful run with the 14ers!'

'After a national search of almost 40 impressive candidates, Bob MacKinnon 's name and qualifications kept coming to the forefront. I believe Bob is the kind of man and coach that will keep the 14ers in the community and take the team to greater success,' said Tim Wiens, Owner.

A native of Buffalo, NY, and the son of longtime NBA coach and General Manager Bob MacKinnon , Sr., MacKinnon played college basketball at King's College in Wilkes-Barre, Pa., before embarking on his coaching career. He earned his Master's Degree in Education from Niagara University in 1997.

MacKinnon's coaching career started at his alma mater as an assistant before moving on to assistant coaching positions at Mercyhurst College, George Washington University and Niagara. He took over as head coach at the United States Merchant Marine Academy in 1997 and won a pair of Skyline Conference Championships, posting a 38-16 record in two seasons. He was also named the 1999 Skyline Conference Coach-of-the-Year.

From there he served as an assistant coach with Matt Doherty at Notre Dame for one season before moving to UNC. Their teams at Notre Dame and UNC posted wins over programs such as Ohio State, Connecticut, Kansas, Duke, and Maryland. In their first season at UNC, the Tar Heels had an 18-game winning streak and were ranked number one in the country. He also helped to recruit UNC's recruiting class that was ranked in the top five in the nation in 2002. His efforts in recruiting those classes lead to the Tar Heels winning the 2005 NCAA National Championship.

In 2003, MacKinnon joined the staff of the NCAA Division I Marshall University men's basketball team as the senior assistant for four seasons to Head Coach Ron Jirsa.

From there, he earned a position with the L.A. Lakers as a scout and as the associate director of the 2005-07 Lakers summer camps before coming to Colorado.

Courtesy of Colorado 14ers

Mad Ants' Calloway to play in Euroleague - by Eurobasket News
It seems the only way Earl Calloway (6'3''-G-83, college: Indiana) could return for a second season with the Fort Wayne Mad Ants NBA D-League team is if hes property of the NBA affiliate Indiana Pacers.

The 6-foot-3 guard from Indiana University who was the Mad Ants most valuable player last season has reportedly signed a two-year contract with Croatian Euroleague team Cibona Zagreb.

From what I hear its kind of a contingent deal, Mad Ants president and general manager Jeff Potter said. Hes still looking to play in the States, but if something doesnt break, hes got that in his back pocket.

Calloway drew rave reviews more than a month ago at the NBA Summer League in Orlando, Fla., where he played with Pacers hopefuls. He led the team in assists, was second in scoring and was named to the all-league second team.

When he wasnt signed immediately by the Pacers, Calloway and his agent found an opening with the Croatian team.

They made a great offer, Potter said. I think its big money, too. I dont think its anything he can pass up.

In being named D-League honorable mention, Calloway started 46 of the Mad Ants 50 games. He averaged 19 points, 5.8 assists and two steals per game and ranked eighth in the league in scoring average, sixth in assists, fourth in steals and free-throw percentage.

Courtesy of www.journalgazette.net

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DOMINICAN REPUBLIC

Francisco Garcia With The National Team - by Herubey Grassals

Francisco Garcia (201-F-81, agency: Octagon, college: Louisville) surprise everyone when he joins the Dominican Republic national team afternoon practice yesteday, Garcia says he was to wait for the permission of his NBA team the sacramento kings before joins the national team; i'm very happy to be in the team and our only goal is to win the gold medal on Centro Basket, the Dominican Republic now will have a solid team with Francisco Garcia, Al Horford (208-F/C-86, college: Florida), Jack Michael Martinez (203-F/C-81, agency: Paris Global Sports), Luis Flores (188-G-81, college: Manhattan), Franklin Western (200-F-72, college: Providence) & Felipe Lopez (197-G/F-74, college: St.John's).

The national team is practicing two times per day in Palacio de los Deportes of Santo Domingo under coach Scott Roth wich arrived to Santo Domingo Sunday night and integrated to team pratice immediately.

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ESTONIA

got fouled making two FTs for 82-76 with 00:59 remaining.

Geoffrey Hockins

EUROPEAN CHAMPIONSHIPS U18

Division B. Stats leaders after the final day - by Eurobasket News

Slovak Republic ended U18 European Championship division B in Debrecen without medal reaching fourth place but one of its players succeeded to grab the award for the top scorer of the competition. It is Richard Grznar (187-G-91), who drained 176 points for eight games in Debrecen (22 ppg). He demonstrated the best performance against Poland in Qualifying Group F when he spent 35 minutes on court netting 32 points. One point less he scored against Georgia in third game of the Preliminary Round.
Second scorer of the championship is Czech center Jan Vesely (210-F/C-90), who was totally the best player of his team in Debrecen adding 20.4 ppg. His competition-high happened in Qualification Round against Sweden when he netted 30 points. Later his team reached the final where Slovenia was too strong for them but anyway Czech Republic made big success advancing to Division A for the next European Championship.
Third scorer of this championship is Romanian Rolland Torok (198-C-90), who posted 19.6 ppg in 8 games. His maximum was 32 points against England at the last game of Preliminary Round.

Rolland Torok got another award in Debrecin and this time as a top rebounder of the competition. He grabbed 102 boards in total which is 12.8 rpg in 8 appearances. Mads Frandsen (201-F-90) of Denmark was behind him with 11.4 while Jakub Wojciechowski (211-C-90) of Poland had 8.6 rpg.

Tomas Satoransky (196-G/F-91, agency: PPGroup) is the best assistant with 6.4 apg while Jakub Kudlacek (186-G-90) and Andrew Lawrence (186-G-90) follow him dishing out 4.5 apg each.

The title for the best 'stealer' belongs to Diogo Correia (185-G-90), who had 4.1 spg. Another Portuguese is on this list and it is Jose Barbosa, who made 3.1 spg, while Andrew Lawrence averaged 2.7 spg.

Interesting is that Czech guard Tomas Satoransky (196-G/F-91, agency: PPGroup) is named to be the MVP of U18 European Championship division B.

Division A. Stats leaders after the final day - by Eurobasket News
Hristo Zahariev (198-G/F-90) is the top scorer of U18 European Championship division A in Amalaida and Pyrgos. Zahariev poured in 115 points for six games which is 19.2 ppg. His competition-high was 32 points against Belgium in Classification Round. Unfortunately to Zahariev, his team finished participation in Greece on 13th place.
Enes Kanter (205-C-92) of Turkey is the second scorer of the championship with 19.1 ppg in 8 games. He gave his best in the third game of Preliminary Round against Croatia. Kanter netted 31 points while his teams suffered defeat 81-91.
Third place on the list of top scorers belongs to Mario Delas (210-C-90), who drained 18.6 ppg in 8 games. He touched 25 points twice on this championship.

At the same time Turkish player Enes Kanter got another award and this one is for the top rebounder of the championship which he earned grabbing great 14.6 rpg. Tautvydas Slezas (210-C-90) of Lithuania is on the second place with 12.4 rpg while Senna Hounhanou (194-G/F-90, agency: LBM Management) of Belgium has 10.7 rpg.

Toni Prostran (188-G-91) of Croatia is together with Tautvydas Slezas top assistant of U18 EC division A. Both of them had the same digit 5 apg. Bulgarian hot prospect Bozhidar Avramov (196-G-90) is third on this list with 4.5 apg.

Andrew Albicy (178-G-90) of France is the best 'stealer' registering 3.5 spg in 8 games. Hristo Zahariev is behind him with 2.7 while Konstantinos Sloukas (192-G-90) has 2.5 spg.

Lithuanian center Donatas Motiejunas (214-C-90) is named to be the MVP of the championship dspite his team lost in the final against the hosts Greece. Motiejunas played 8 games in Amalaida and Pyrgos averaging 18.2 ppg, 10.2 rpg, 1.7 apg, 1.3 spg and 1.8 bpg.

Except of him center Enes Kanter, forward Mario Delas and guards Nikolaos Pappas (194-G-90, agency: FCM) and Konstantinos Sloukas are also named in U18 European Championship Men All-Tournament.

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EUROPEAN CHAMPIONSHIPS U20

Division A. Qualifying Round Day 1 - by Eurobasket News
Group E
Turkey U20 - Ukraine U20 86:73
Turkish U20 National Team secured the first win at the Qualifying round of the European Championship today. They tipped off this stage of the tournament with a confident win over Ukraine. Turkey thus improved to 2-1 record in Group E ladder, dropping Ukraine to 1-2. Baris Hersek (204-F/C-88) and Can Ozcan (201-F-89) drained three-pointers early in the game to give Turkey a 9:2 lead. Triples later would prove the main weapon for Turkish team as they accounted for 12 of them down the stretch and converting solid 44% from beyond the arc. Oleksandr Kolchenko and Vladyslav Tonchenko hit consecutive trebles for Ukraine as they gained a 20:17 advantage at one point late in the first frame. However Ogun Sevinc (198-F/G-88, agency: 1x1 Sports) quickly denied the effort with 5 points in a row and Turkey led 25:23 after ten minutes of action. The teams exchanged baskets throughout the second frame and Ukraine kept it close but could not surge in front. Turkish team secured a 7-point buffer going into the locker room. Three treys from Ogun Sevinc early in the third term allowed Turkey to break ahead. They accumulated a 56:39 advantage and cruised from now on. Turkey entered the fourth stanza leading by 17 points and quickly piled up a 20-point cushion. Ukraine never rebounded late in the encounter and Turkey breezed to the victory at the end. Baris Hersek dropped 19 points and pulled down 7 rebounds for Turkey. Ogun Sevinc added 18 points, while Can Ozcan had 16 in a win. Sergiy Gladyr (196-G/F-89) and Vadym Norenko (204-F-88) notched 16 points apiece for Ukraine. Denys Lukashov contributed 14 points in defeat.

Turkey U20: Baris Hersek 19, Ogun Sevinc 18, Can Ozcan 16
Ukraine U20: Sergiy Gladyr 16, Vadym Norenko 16

Israel U20- Lithuania U20 70:77
Lithuania U20 remained undefeated in the U20 European Championship being held in Latvia. In the first game of the Qualifying round the team overcame Israel 77:70. The win could be even more, but the Baltic team allowed the opponent to stay closer after 11:22 in the last period. Martynas Gecevicius (194-G-88) led the winners with 14 points. Vytenis Lipkevicius (200-F-89) posted 13, while Zygimantas Janavicius (195-G-89, agency: Interperformances) netted 11. Anton Shoutvin (205-C/F-89) had a great game for Israel pouring in 32 points.
It was Anton Shoutvin to start shinning from the first minutes in the game for his team. Israel got 10:3 in the opening tip and then led to 3 points win by the end of the first quarter. Uzas brought Lithuania back to 26:26 with 7 minutes until the end of the first half. Juskevicius's jump shot gave Baltic state 39:34 at the halftime.
In the third quarter Lithuania was too good for the opponent and dominated the court. They produced 27:14 in the period that gave them 66:48 before the final quarter. Israel did not give up and Brandwein immediately scored for them in the opening tip of the last quarter. Anton Shoutvin cut the deficit to 58:68 with 5.41 to play. Brandwein's three remained Israel in the game for 70:74 with 18 seconds in the game, but three free throws from Lithuania were the last in the game.

Israel U20:Anton Shoutvin 32, Gal Mekel (195-G-88) 16
Lithuania U20:Martynas Gecevicius 14, Vytenis Lipkevicius 13, Zygimantas Janavicius 11

Italy U20 - Croatia U20 88:52
Italy scored another emphatic win at the U20 European Championship in Latvia. Today they defeated Croatia at the start of the Qualifying round. Thus Italy climbed to 3-0 record in Group E, while sending Croatia to 0-3. Italy got to a better start to the game. Ferrero knocked down 8 points in the starting frame and the Azzurri grabbed a 19:12 advantage into the second period. Consecutive trebles from Costantino Cutolo (198-G/F-89) and Lorenzo D'Ercole (190-G-88) allowed Italy to claim a 13-point lead midway through the second stanza. Croatia tried to answer as Marino Sarlija chipped in 6 points in a row and shaved the distance to 8 points. Franjo Bubalo capped the half with a three-pointer and Croatia trailed by only 4 points 33:37. However Italy opened the second half with an 8:0 run to clear off once again. Pietro Aradori

13, Costantino Cutolo 11
Croatia U20: Zeljko Sakic 11, Miro Bilan 9

Group F
Montenegro U20 - Russia U20 81:63
The Montenegrin U20 National Team continued their surprising winning rally at the European Championship today. They cruised past Russia to tip off the Qualifying round action in Group F. The victory meant Montenegro improved to 3-0 record in the ladder and celebrated their 4th straight win at the tournament. Vladimir Dasic (209-F-88, agency: Beo Basket) once again paced the team with 21 points, 12 boards and 6 steals. Vladimir Dasic came up with 13 points in the opening term and Montenegro claimed a 26:20 lead ten minutes into the game. Maxim Krivosheev (205-F/C-88) netted 4 straight points for Russian team to clip the distance to 2 points midway through the second stanza but Montenegro reacted quickly. They went on a 17:3 run to close the first half leading by 16 points. Durisic and Sead Sehovic connected thrice from beyond the arc early in the third frame and Montenegrin team jumped to a 21-point lead. Russia only managed to cut it to 19 heading into the fourth stanza. But Montenegro looked solid in the final period and easily secured another impressive success in Riga. Durisic knocked down 15 points for Montenegro. Nemanja Vranjes (188-G/F-88) had 13 points, while Sead Sehovic added 11 points and 8 rebounds for the winners. Maxim Krivosheev replied with 21 points for Russia. Alexey Shved (196-G-88) tallied 13 points in defeat.

Montenegro U20: Vladimir Dasic 21+12 boards, Durisic 15, Nemanja Vranjes 13
Russia U20: Maxim Krivosheev 21, Alexey Shved 13

Serbia U20-Spain U20 80:73
Serbia U20 won the battle for the second win in Group F beating Spain U20 in the first game of the Qualifying round for both teams. A 26:14 in the last period was the final spurt for the winners that improved to 2-1. Miroslav Raduljica (212-C-88, agency: CAA Sports) led Serbia with 22 points and 13 rebounds. Milan Macvan (205-F/C-89) and Marko Keselj

(206-F-88, agency: Beo Basket) followed him with 16 points each in a win. Xavier Rabaseda (199-G-89) ended up with 26, points for Spain, while Victor Claver (204-F/C-88) had 17.
Victor Claver opened the game for Spain from the arc as the latter looked more confident from the start. Serbia stayed however close and went a small lead in the end of the period. Miroslav Raduljica from the free throw line made it 22:19 in the end of the first. Spain dominated the court in the second quarter and won the period 20:15. It gave them 39:37 advantage as both teams disappeared in the lockers. They both went step to step in the third one and Spain was a bit luckier to grab another 20:17 victory. Serbia however started the last period with 6-0 run and grabbed the control of the game. They were too good with 26:14 in the last period and won the game 80:73. Spain fell at 1-2 in the group and will face France tomorrow.

Serbia U20:Miroslav Raduljica 22+13 rebs, Milan Macvan 16, Marko Keselj

16
Spain U20:Xavier Rabaseda 26, Victor Claver 17

Latvia U20 - France U20 96:73
Latvian U20 National Team reinforced their title ambitions at home European Championship today. They cruised past previously undefeated French team to send strong message to all of their opponents. Latvia suffered two defeats in the preliminary round but the hosts showed they are still in the title race with a comprehensive win over one of the main favorites. Latvia improved to 1-2 record in the Qualifying round Group F, while France slipped to 2-1. Latvia got to a strong start to the game as Dairis Bertans (192-G/F-89) and Sandis Silavs (193-G-88) drained four three-pointers to ignite a 16:5 rally. Sandis Silavs later added another trey and Latvia led 24:16 after one quarter of action. A three-pointers show continued in the second frame as Dairis Bertans knocked down two more for a 33:16 Latvian lead. Back-to-back triples from Sandis Silavs and Janis Strelnieks (185-G-89) allowed the home team to enjoy a massive 55:26 advantage late in the half. Edwin Jackson (191-G-89) and Janis Kaufmanis traded three-pointers late in the half and Latvia were in charge 58:30 at halftime. Janis Strelnieks and Selakovs stretched the margin to 30 points early in the third quarter. Latvia piled up an insurmountable 44-point lead heading into the fourth term. France tipped off the fourth quarter with a 12:0 run but it was too late to spark the intrigue. France managed to cut the gap to 22 points after consecutive trebles from Rudy Jomby (196-G/F-88). However Sandis Silavs and Janis Strelnieks sealed a stunning victory for the hosts. Dairis Bertans paced Latvia with 22 points and 7 boards. Sandis Silavs knocked down 20 points, while Janis Strelnieks, Janis Kaufmanis and Rihards Kuksiks had 13 points apiece for the winners. Edwin Jackson poured in 21 points for France. Rudy Jomby secured 9 points in a loss.

Latvia U20: Dairis Bertans 22, Sandis Silavs 20, Janis Strelnieks 13+7 assists
France U20: Edwin Jackson 21, Rudy Jomby 9

Classification Round
Slovenia U20 - Greece U20 77:70
Slovenian U20 National Team made the first step towards securing their spot in Division A of the European Championship. Today they defeated Greek counterparts in the opening game of the classification round. Four teams are fighting to avoid relegation to Division B for the next season. Dejan Cigoja (204-F/C-88, agency: Interperformances) nailed 24 points and grabbed 7 boards as Slovenia outsmart Greece. The lead changed hands throughout the opening stanza but Lapornik, Gavric and Tomic capped it with a 6:0 run to give Slovenia a 16:11 advantage into the second period. Dejan Cigoja knocked down 11 points in the second frame as Slovenia remained ahead 37:34 at halftime. Edin Alispahic and Mirko Mulalic (195-F-88) opened the second half with four back-to-back three-pointers and Slovenia surged ahead 49:34. Dejan Cigoja then took over for Slovenian team as he dropped 5 points late in the quarter and the margin stayed at 12-point mark entering the fourth term. Greece tried to save the game as they trimmed the deficit to 6 points midway through the fourth quarter. Evangelos Sakellariou (196-F/G-89, agency: FCM) and Georgios Bogris (209-C/F-89) later allowed Greece to come as close as 4 points but Slovenia survived. Virk netted 3 freebies in the dying seconds and brought Slovenia to the key win. Mirko Mulalic scored 14 points for Slovenia. Zoran Dragic (195-G-89) had 11 points, while Tomic tallied 10 points, 7 boards and 6 assists for the winners. Evangelos Sakellariou answered with 17 points for Greece. Georgios Bogris added 12 points, while Tsiarelis notched 10 in defeat. Greece will take on Bulgaria, while Slovenia face Georgia in tomorrows action.

Slovenia U20: Dejan Cigoja 24, Mirko Mulalic 14, Zoran Dragic 11
Greece U20: Evangelos Sakellariou 17, Georgios Bogris 12

Bulgaria U20 - Georgia U20 90:75
Chavdar Kostov (196-G-88, agency: Interperformances) stepped up with 26 points and 7 rebounds for Bulgaria as they knocked down Georgia in the classification round of U20 European Championship in Latvia today. Bulgaria dominated the game and crafted a solid win that allowed them one step closer to securing the spot in Division A for the next year. Georgia in the meantime was not helped by a pivotal performance from Giorgi Shermadini (216-C-89, agency: Life Sports). The center tallied 24 points, 13 boards and 6 blocks but could not help his side from falling. Beka Tsivtsivadze put Georgia in charge with a three-pointer early in the game but it was the last time Georgia led in the game. Bulgaria answered with a 9:0 run and drove to a 24:14 lead after the starting period. Ivan Lilov (196-F/G-88, agency: FCM) scored five points in a row for Bulgaria midway through the second term and they cleared off to a 14-point distance. Soon the gap grew to 20 points before Giorgi Shermadini and Giorgi Gulisabedashvili trimmed it to 15 at the interval. Bulgaria kept Georgia at safe distance throughout the third period and entered the final quarter ahead by 17. Chavdar Kostov and Pavel Marinov (196-G-88) quickly extended the margin to 21 points and Bulgaria never looked back in the fourth frame. Pavel Marinov secured 22 points for Bulgaria. Ivan Lilov added 14 points and 9 assists for the winners. Richard Matiashvili (209-C-89) had 18 points and 9 boards for Georgia. Shengelia contributed 10 points in a losing effort. Bulgaria sank 52% from the field and forced their opponents to 18 turnovers.

Bulgaria U20: Chavdar Kostov 26, Pavel Marinov 22, Ivan Lilov 14
Georgia U20: Giorgi Shermadini 24+13 boards, Richard Matiashvili 18

Stats Leaders

EC U20 Stats Leaders

Points Per Game

1 Gecevicius, LTU 23.0
2 Gladyr, UKR 22.3
3 Kolchenko, UKR 21.7
4 Shved, RUS 21.7
5 Shermadini, GEO 21.3

Rebounds Per Game

1 Shermadini, GEO 11.0
2 Shengelia, GEO 10.7
3 Dasic, MNT 10.0
4 Raduljica, SRB 10.0
5 Aguilar, ESP 9.7

Assists Per Game

1 Khvostov, RUS 6.0
2 Janavicius, LTU 6.0
3 Colom, ESP 6.0
4 Mekel, ISR 5.3
5 Balbay, TUR 5.0

Steals Per Game

1 Pavlicevic, MNT 2.7
2 Klarica, CRO 2.5
3 Claver, ESP 2.3

Blocks Per Game

1 Shermadini, GEO 4.7
2 Vaty, FRA 2.7
3 Marjanovic, SRB 2.3

2FGP

1 Vaty, FRA 79.2
2 Shermadini, GEO 75.0
3 Mbaye, FRA 64.0

3FGP

1 Katnic, SRB 57.1
2 Juskevicius, LTU 57.1
3 Lipkevicius, LTU 57.1

Free Throws

1 Juskevicius, LTU 100
2 Lipkevicius, LTU 91.7
3 Kostov, BUL 88.9

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FINLAND

FRANCE

Latvia chop up France in Riga - by Eurobasket News
Latvia U20 - France U20 96:73

Latvian U20 National Team reinforced their title ambitions at home European Championship today. They cruised past previously undefeated French team to send strong message to all of their opponents. Latvia suffered two defeats in the preliminary round but the hosts showed they are still in the title race with a comprehensive win over one of the main favorites. Latvia improved to 1-2 record in the Qualifying round Group F, while France slipped to 2-1. Latvia got to a strong start to the game as Dairis Bertans (192-G/F-89) and Sandis Silavs (193-G-88) drained four three-pointers to ignite a 16:5 rally. Sandis Silavs later added another trey and Latvia led 24:16 after one quarter of action. A three-pointers show continued in the second frame as Dairis Bertans knocked down two more for a 33:16 Latvian lead. Back-to-back triples from Sandis Silavs and Janis Strelnieks (185-G-89) allowed the home team to enjoy a massive 55:26 advantage late in the half. Edwin Jackson (191-G-89) and Janis Kaufmanis (185-G-89) traded three-pointers late in the half and Latvia were in charge 58:30 at halftime. Janis Strelnieks and Selakovs stretched the margin to 30 points early in the third quarter. Latvia piled up an insurmountable 44-point lead heading into the fourth term. France tipped off the fourth quarter with a 12:0 run but it was too late to spark the intrigue. France managed to cut the gap to 22 points after consecutive trebles from Rudy Jomby (196-G/F-88). However Sandis Silavs and Janis Strelnieks sealed a stunning victory for the hosts. Dairis Bertans paced Latvia with 22 points and 7 boards. Sandis Silavs knocked down 20 points, while Janis Strelnieks, Janis Kaufmanis and Rihards Kuksiks (197-F-88) had 13 points apiece for the winners. Edwin Jackson poured in 21 points for France. Rudy Jomby secured 9 points in a loss.

Latvia U20: Dairis Bertans 22, Sandis Silavs 20, Janis Strelnieks 13+7 assists
France U20: Edwin Jackson 21, Rudy Jomby 9

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FYR MACEDONIA

U20 EC, division B: Macedonians better than Norway - by Eurobasket News
U20 Norway - U20 F.Y.R. Macedonia 83-91

F.Y.R. Macedonia made a huge step forward to the Qualifying Round of U20 European Championship division B in Targu Mures. Thus Macedonians earned a chance to fight with Finland for the second place in Preliminary Group A. The winner of this game, which is at the same time the last game of the Preliminary Round, will advance to the next stage. As a reminder Portugal already done it in this group with a perfect score 4-0.

The most powerful weapon of Macedonians in this game were rebounds. They finished the game counting until 40 while on the other side Norway had 27. Beginning of the game belonged to Terrence Oglesby (188-G-88) and his teammates. At the one moment they reached plus 5 but thanks to Kiril Nikolovski (210-C-88, agency: Interperformances) and Vladimir Brckov (193-G-89) Macedonia closed it with minus 1. Until the middle of the second frame it was totally leveled game. During the following five minutes Aleksandar Kostoski (188-G-88, agency: Octagon) woke up leading 11-5 run for his team. It was 37-43 after 20 minutes. Norway was strong enough to tie the score in third quarter but still Macedonia went with 58-62 to the crucial one. During the last ten minutes everything what Norway succeeded to do was minus 5.

As usually Aleksandar Kostoski was the best player for the winners collecting 20 points and 7 rebounds. Marko Simonovski (190-G-89) also shined netting 19 points including 4 boards while Jovan Markovski (197-F-88) stopped on 13 points and 4 rebounds. Terrence Oglesby was better than the others for the loosing side scoring 26 points. Torgrim Sommerfeldt (200-G-89) followed with 19 points and 5 boards while Christian Hinsch (188-G-88, agency: Court Side) stopped on 14 points.

U20 Norway - U20 F.Y.R. Macedonia 83-91
(20-19, 17-24, 21-19, 25-29)

Norway: Terrence Oglesby 26, Torgrim Sommerfeldt 19 (5 rebs), Christian Hinsch 14
F.Y.R. Macedonia: Aleksandar Kostoski 20 (7 rebs), Marko Simonovski 19 (4 rebs), Jovan Markovski 13 (4 rebs)

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GEORGIA

GERMANY

Q&A with Amin Wright - by Moritz Korff
Eurobasket Germany talked to Amin Wright (187-G-80, college: Ramapo), who averaged 12.3 points, 4.2 rebounds, 3.0 assists and 2.5 steals in 24 games for USC Freiburg (2. Bundesliga Pro B) in this past season, about his first year in Germany and about what's next in his career.

If you look back at this past season in Freiburg: What kind of thoughts go through your mind?
As a first time player overseas, I think I had a good season, but I know I can do much better this year.

Anything that you would liked to have done different in your first season in Germany?
Yes. I think there is always room for improvement. I know I'm a very determined and ambitious person. So I know its very important to always work hard. The best always learn from their mistakes and nobody is perfect. So, in order for me to become one of the best, I must learn from my mistakes and always strive for perfection. I am very fortunate for my first experience in Germany. I know it will help me in the future. So I wouldn't really change it.

Why did USC Freiburg fail to finish the season on one of the two moving up-spots?
USC Freiburg made a few changes in the roster that were very crucial to the result of the season. We were in a very good position to outright win the division. The new players the club brought it were very good players individually. But they unintentionally interupted the entire team's chemistry. For most teams, its very difficult to adjust to new players when the season is so far along. And I also think the players also had a very difficult time adjusting to the team's chemistry as well. Also, during the end of the season, we suffered a few loses due to injuries and/or illnesses.

How has been summer for you so far?
I had a very productive summer. I'm from Jersey City, New Jersey, so I'm very close to New York and I'm playing against some of the greatest players at some of the toughest leagues. I recently played in Boston in the Premiere Sports Basketball Exposure/Education League. It's one of the most competetive leagues I've played in. Guys from the NBA, Overseas, and other professional leagues play there. This year was my second year. My team won the championship last year. We tried to repeat but lost the final game. I scored 51 points in the final game and averaged 39 for the season. Many managers from all over the world come there to watch the games and look for players.

Tell us about your plans for next season.
I'm fortunate to be going into my 4th professional season. I want to continue to play at the professional level. I plan on building upon my first year experience overseas and focus on doing much better. Whatever team I play for will never have to doubt my confidence or commitment to the team. I play to win. I have won on every level and I plan on continuing to win championships at the professional level. I plan on providing team leadership and positive energy to help with the team's success.
Teams and coaches interested in Amin Wright can contact him at wrightiza10@yahoo.com

2. Bundesliga-News - by Moritz Korff
Team-captain Sebastian Barth (193-G-85) extended his contract with TV Langen (2. Bundesliga Pro A) for the upcoming 2008-09 season. The 23-year-old averaged 9.2 points, 2.2 assists and 1.7 rebounds in 26 games for the Giraffes in this past campaign.

FC Bayern Muenchen, newcomer to the 2. Bundesliga Pro A, announced to keep four players from last seasons roster for 2008-09: Markus Huebner (198-F-87), Antonio Lang (190-G-86), David Rotim (197-F-85) and Mirko Virijevic (201-F-81, college: Freed-Hardeman) will continue to shoot hoops for Bayern.

Niels Matter (200-F/C-87) and TG Renesas Landshut (2. Bundesliga Pro B) have agreed on a contract for the 2008-09 season. The 21-year-old, who attended the 2007 U20 EURO (Division B) as a member of the Swiss team, saw action in 14 games of the LNA in 2007-08, averaging 1.9 points and 2.0 rebounds per contest.

Bosnian heads to Oldenburg - by Moritz Korff
Marko Scekic (207-F-81, agency: Agency No 10) has linked up with the EWE Baskets Oldenburg (1. Bundesliga) and signed a two-year contract with the Thunderbirds. Scekic, a former member of the Bosnian National Team, played with PGE Turow Zgorzelec in this past season. He played 38 games for the team in the Polish league, averaging 6.1 points (FG-percentage: 70.7%) and 2.8 rebounds per contest. He also had 15 appearances in the ULEB-Cup and posted 7.1 points and 2.9 rebounds a game. Before moving to Poland, Scekic spent three years at Vojvodina Novi Sad and four years at Banja Luka.

Maras returns to Giessen - by Manuel Schust

The LTi Giessen 46ers announced today the signing of former german national player Robert Maras (216-C-78, agency: Court Side). The 29-year old Center signed a two-year contract with Giessen and is happy to return to Germany.
Maras started last season with Egaleo AO and averaged 4.9 points and 2.6 rebounds in 16 games. In March he joined U.B. La Palma and produced 7.2 points and 3.7 rebounds.

Returning to Giessen, where he played during the 2006-2007 campaign, means that Maras also reunifies with new head coach Simon Cote . Maras and Cote were both members of Frankfurt's championship team in 2004: Maras as a player, Cote as Gordon Herbert's assistant coach.

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GREECE

Greece U-16 team lost to Russia 68-73 in a friendly game - by Simon Varvakis
The U-16 Greek National Team suffered a defeat to their Russian counterpart in the second game of the international tournament which takes place in Glyfada Athens. The game ended in 1st over time 73-68 (.57-57). The coach of the team Nikos Toufas was however free to test new systems and player combinations in view of the FIBA European Championship that takes places in Chieti, Italy on 16-24 August 2008.

The quarters were as follows: 17-12, 36-23, 50-43, 57-57, etc., par 68-73

Greece (Toufas): Gripsios 2, Terpos, Tasos Antonakis (204-C-92) 14 (10 rimp), Giorgos Mavrogiannis (192-F-92) 12, Psaropoulos 6, Monsenigos 10, Tsalkitzis 2, Karaiskos 4, Sikalidis 7, Maragos 1, Linos Chrysikopoulos (195-G-92) 9, Tagaris 1.

Russia (Panof): Kortsagka 3, Varnakof 9 Nikoulitsef 16, Sirna 5, Kouriskin 4 Karpatsef 8, Pavlenko 14, Mensik 6, Nazarof, Zarefska 8, Logkinof.

Harissis at PAOK - by Kostas Papadopoulos
After Drosos took the leadership of PAOK, the team's movements seem like a storm. So, after announcing Argiris Pedoulakis as the next coach of the team and Georgios Tsiaras (207-C/F-82) as the first new player to join the new roster, Chris Harissis (191-G-76) is the next player to be added in this roster. Whichever conversation between the two parts has begun many days before, and that was widely known; thus, today's announcement just confirmed the fact. Now, PAOK is certainly strengthened a lot at point-guards, especially if Dimitris Verginis (194-G-87, agency: FCM) stays at the team (we just remind Panathinaikos' interest to leave him at PAOK for one more year).
Chris Harissis has played at 246 games at 1 Greek Championship, having scored 2.258 points. During the last season, he played at Polish league for Prokom, and at 12 games at Euroleague he scored 58 points (46,2% at 1p shots, 37,9% at 2p shots and 28,6% at 3p shots), grabbed 18 rebounds, served 21 assists and had 13 steals. Besides at 26 games of the Polish League, he scored 121 points (59% at 1p shots, 55% at 2p shots and 36% at 3p shots), grabbed 37 rebounds, served 47 assists and had 31 steals.

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HONG KONG

Strait Cup result - by Cheung Suet-pan
Hong Kong Men's Basketball team won the title of the Strait Cup 2008, as they defeated Fujian SBS Xunxing 86-81 in the host final at Southorn Stadium on 27th July. Moreover, point guard LAW Yi-ting of Hong Kong named the MVP and the Best Three-point shooter award in this tournament. He had scored 14 of his game high 28pts in the 4th period.

Fujian SBS Xunxing was missing starting PG Lu Xiao-ming, SG Yang Chao in actions, as they won the first victory towards the Taiwan Champion Taiwan Beer on the first day; but lost the final to Hong Kong. Former Chinese International Liu Yu-Dong was main contributer on scoring, while 208cm long centre Yang Geng-lin was cammanding the paint when playing against Hong Kong.

Hong Kong mostly had a good demonstration of 'run an gun' style, greatly emphasized on speed and high 3 pt shooting accuracy. With tallest player was only 201cm PF Li Wai-lun, Hong Kong team was using zone defence in the second half action, while Fujian coundn't find a chance to get close in the last one and a half minute. Meanwhile, Taiwan Beer could only won the game against Macau Fukien Club, finished 3rd out of four.Their PF Lin Chih-Chieh was out of shape after the first game against Fujian SBS Xunxing, when he still maintained attacking the rim of Fujian side's with three powerful dunks. Their guard Yang Chin-Min was performing well through the tournament, and maintained the most scoring player from the four teams.

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HUNGARY

U20 EC, division B: Hungary takes care for the surprise over Poland - by Eurobasket News
U20 Poland - U20 Hungary 58-62

Hungary made a surprise beating Poland in the last day of Preliminary Round on U20 European Championship division B in Targu Mures. Thus Hungary improved on 2-1 in Group D while Poland dropped on the same score. Despite this victory Hungary doesn't have any chance for the next stage. Even if Netherlands looses today against Romania, Hungary will be the worst team in this circle but in that case Poland will book a spot for the Qualifying Round. On the other side if Netherlands succeeds to beat the hosts Romania it will advance to the next stage with score 2-2.

Hungarians showed much better performance at the opening stanza. After 7-0 for Poland, they created quick turn 12-21 mostly owing to Zoltan Supola (193-G-88, agency: FCM) and Akos Kovacs (184-G-88). Following ten minutes were the low-points ones as both teams missed many open shots. However, Zoltan Supola and his teammates succeeded to stretch lead after it on 11 points. Zoltan Supola and Milan Csorvasi (209-F/C-88, agency: FCM) continued third frame in the same rhythm. After two free throws by Peter Hajmasy (194-F-88) in 27th minute it was huge 31-48. Finally it was a sign for the Poles to wake up and they immediately made 15-0 run led by Adam Waczynski (199-F-89). It was 46-48 with 7:26 remaining in the game but Hungary responded very soon grabbing plus 8 again and resolving question about the winner.

Zoltan Supola netted 13 points including 4 rebounds and 4 assists for the winning side. Milan Csorvasi almost recorded double-double as he stopped on 9 points and 14 boards while Peter Hajmasy contributed with 9 points. Poland, which had a chance to qualify for the next stage in case of the victory, got 18 points and 8 rebounds from Adam Waczynski. Dardan Berisha (193-G-88, agency: Global Sports Plaza) followed him with 10 points and 8 boards.

U20 Poland - U20 Hungary 58-62
(14-21, 9-13, 15-14, 20-14)

Poland: Adam Waczynski 18 (8 rebs), Dardan Berisha 10 (8 rebs)
Hungary: Zoltan Supola 13 (4 rebs, 4 as), Milan Csorvasi 9 (14 rebs), Peter Hajmasy 9

New players for ASE - by Tamas Deri
Charles Gosa (202-F-77, agency: Arik Krayn Services, college: N.Mexico St.) will be the new small forward of coach Sabali's team in the next season. The 202 cm tall, 31 years old forward graduated on the University of New Mexico State in 1999 and started his pro carreer in the Netherlands. Gosa played already in Cyprus, Israel, Portugal and Ukraine. The last season he spent with St. Quentin in Pro B France and averaged 13.8 points, 5.7 rpg and 2.7 apg in 33 games.

32 years old, Puerto Rican NT-member, Sharif Fajardo (205-F/C-76, agency: Edge Sports, college: UTEP) will be the new power forward of the team. He had a great NCAA-carreer on UTEP and started to play professional basketball in his country. He played his first european season in 2001-02 in Italy, since than he played for famous clubs as Strasbourg, Trieste, Besancon. The last season he played for Siroki in the bosnian and Adriatic League where he averaged 15.7 points and 4.5 rebounds in 17 games.

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IRELAND

Jim Moran and Carl English - by Mariano Galindo
Irish player Jim Moran (200-F/G-79, college: William & Mary) will play next season with Carl English (192-G-81, college: Hawaii) after Canadian player have renew his contract with Kalise Gran Canaria. English scored 15.2 points per game. Like this, Jim Moran will continue working with English and the rest of the players in ACB and Eurocup, within a new challenge for Kalise, wich want to be in the first positions so much an Spain as in Europe.
Jim Moran played last year all regular season an he is one of the most important men in Gran Canaria.

U20 EC, division B: Sweden books a spot for the Qualifying Round - by Eurobasket News
U20 Sweden - U20 Ireland 105-62

As it was expected, Sweden grabbed the third victory in Preliminary Group B finishing it on the second place with score 3-1. On the other side Ireland remained on just one win, which happened in the last round against weak Azerbaijan. Sweden continues championship in Qualifying Group E together with Germany, Portugal and most probably F.Y.R. Macedonia of Great Britain. Ireland will take a place in Classification Round from 9th to 16th position.

As it was case during the entire championship, Ireland struggled a lot with its offensive sets. The Irish made many mistakes and bad decisions. Everything resulted with 26 turnovers at the end. At the same time Sweden totally dominated under the basket having 27 rebounds more than its opponent. With this kind of difference Ireland couldn't expect anything from this game. Difference wasn't so big until the third stanza when impressive Jeffery Taylor (200-G/F-89) was on fire. He got a help from Kim Palmqvist (201-F-88) and Mario Drazic (202-F-89) ending this period with fantastic 35-15. At that time it already was plus 28 for Sweden and every Ireland's hope immediately has gone.

Jeffery Taylor demonstrated excellent performance for the winning side today. He spent 27 minutes on court pouring in 29 points and missing only one board for double-double. Kim Palmqvist (201-F-88) helped his team with 19 points while Kim Palmqvist netted 14. Ireland got the most from Keith Anderson (188-G-89), who added 20 points and 4 glasses. Sean Kilmartin (178-G-89) was behind him posting 12 points.

U20 Sweden - U20 Ireland 105-62
(23-24, 22-13, 35-15, 25-10)

Sweden: Jeffery Taylor 29 (9 rebs), Kim Palmqvist (201-F-88) 19, Kim Palmqvist 14
Ireland: Keith Anderson 20 (4 rebs), Sean Kilmartin 12

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ISRAEL

Market news - by Tamar Goldman

The American Forward/Center Brooks Sales (208-C/F-80, college: Villanova) has agreed terms with Maccabi Haifa and he joins BJ McKie (188-G-77, college: S.Carolina) as the clubs second foreigner. Sales is a very experienced player that started his carrier in Europe in 2002/03 season when he landed in Italy. After two years there he returned to the US only to be waved by the Houston Rockets on Oct. 04 and go back to Italy. His next stop was in France where he played for Pua-Orthez and on 2006/07 season he moved to Besiktas (Turkey), and in Apr. he signed with Benfica Lisboa. Last season he returned to Italy and played for Udin where he averaged 10.6ppg, 7.2rpg, 1.3spg

Another team from the north - Elitzur Q.Ata signed two Israeli Players. The first is Elad Eliyahu (193-G/F-85) that spent the last two seasons in the club, and decided to stay now that the team would play in the first Div. Eliyahu grew up in Jerusalem and played there during 2003/04 and 2004/05 season. then he moved to Ramat Hasharon and from there to Q. Ata. The second Israeli is the Forward Erez Kohansky (195-F-84, agency: Avi Zilberman) that spent the last two seasons in Ramat Gan. The 24 years old player started his carrier in Rishon Le Zion where he played for two seasons and then he moved to Bnei Hasharon.

Bnei Hasharon found a new player and inked Richard Roby (198-G-85) from Colorado University. The Guard averaged last year 17.0ppg, 6.7rpg, 2.1apg, 1.0spg,

Lithuania U20 remain hot - by Eurobasket News
Israel U20- Lithuania U20 70:77

Lithuania U20 remained undefeated in the U20 European Championship being held in Latvia. In the first game of the Qualifying round the team overcame Israel 77:70. The win could be even more, but the Baltic team allowed the opponent to stay closer after 11:22 in the last period. Martynas Gecevicius (194-G-88) led the winners with 14 points. Vytenis Lipkevicius (200-F-89) posted 13, while Zygimantas Janavicius (195-G-89, agency: Interperformances) netted 11. Anton Shoutvin (205-C/F-89) had a great game for Israel pouring in 32 points.
It was Anton Shoutvin to start shinning from the first minutes in the game for his team. Israel got 10:3 in the opening tip and then led to 3 points win by the end of the first quarter. Uzas brought Lithuania back to 26:26 with 7 minutes until the end of the first half. Juskevicius's jump shot gave Baltic state 39:34 at the halftime.
In the third quarter Lithuania was too good for the opponent and dominated the court. They produced 27:14 in the period that gave them 66:48 before the final quarter. Israel did not give up and Brandwein immediately scored for them in the opening tip of the last quarter. Anton Shoutvin cut the deficit to 58:68 with 5.41 to play. Brandwein's three remained Israel in the game for 70:74 with 18 seconds in the game, but three free throws from Lithuania were the last in the game.

Israel U20:Anton Shoutvin 32, Gal Mekel (195-G-88) 16
Lithuania U20:Martynas Gecevicius 14, Vytenis Lipkevicius 13, Zygimantas Janavicius 11

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ITALY

13, Costantino Cutolo 11
Croatia U20: Zeljko Sakic 11, Miro Bilan 9

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LATVIA

LITHUANIA

Lithuania U20 remain hot - by Eurobasket News
Israel U20- Lithuania U20 70:77

Lithuania U20 remained undefeated in the U20 European Championship being held in Latvia. In the first game of the Qualifying round the team overcame Israel 77:70. The win could be even more, but the Baltic team allowed the opponent to stay closer after 11:22 in the last period. Martynas Gecevicius (194-G-88) led the winners with 14 points. Vytenis Lipkevicius (200-F-89) posted 13, while Zygimantas Janavicius (195-G-89, agency: Interperformances) netted 11. Anton Shoutvin (205-C/F-89) had a great game for Israel pouring in 32 points.
It was Anton Shoutvin to start shinning from the first minutes in the game for his team. Israel got 10:3 in the opening tip and then led to 3 points win by the end of the first quarter. Uzas brought Lithuania back to 26:26 with 7 minutes until the end of the first half. Juskevicius's jump shot gave Baltic state 39:34 at the halftime.
In the third quarter Lithuania was too good for the opponent and dominated the court. They produced 27:14 in the period that gave them 66:48 before the final quarter. Israel did not give up and Brandwein immediately scored for them in the opening tip of the last quarter. Anton Shoutvin cut the deficit to 58:68 with 5.41 to play. Brandwein's three remained Israel in the game for 70:74 with 18 seconds in the game, but three free throws from Lithuania were the last in the game.

Israel U20:Anton Shoutvin 32, Gal Mekel (195-G-88) 16
Lithuania U20:Martynas Gecevicius 14, Vytenis Lipkevicius 13, Zygimantas Janavicius 11

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LUXEMBOURG

Jordan Brady signs with Luxembourg Racing - by Eurobasket News
After completing his senior season at Utah Valley University in the 2007-08 season Jordan Brady (198-F-83) will continue his basketball career as a member of the Luxembourg Racing this fall.

Brady signed a nine-month contract with the Racing and will report to training camp Monday. The first game of the season is scheduled for October 4.

'My family and I are very excited for this opportunity,' Brady said. 'This is a great stepping stone on which to start my career.'

Brady averaged 11.2 points per game and 8.4 rebounds per game in the 2007-08 season at Utah Valley in addition to being a senior leader for the Wolverines.

'It's an exciting opportunity for Jordan,' UVU head basketball coach Dick Hunsaker commented. 'His determination and work ethic have provided him an entry into professional basketball.'

Courtesy of www.cstv.com

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MALDIVES

Standings - D1

D1 Standings

1. Victory SC	0-0
2. SRC	0-0
3. Hurricane BC	0-0
4. The Group SC	0-0
5. R.L.C	0-0
6. K.H. United	0-0

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MONTENEGRO

Montenegro yet to be stopped in Latvia - by Eurobasket News
Montenegro U20 - Russia U20 81:63

The Montenegrin U20 National Team continued their surprising winning rally at the European Championship today. They cruised past Russia to tip off the Qualifying round action in Group F. The victory meant Montenegro improved to 3-0 record in the ladder and celebrated their 4th straight win at the tournament. Vladimir Dasic (209-F-88, agency: Beo Basket) once again paced the team with 21 points, 12 boards and 6 steals. Vladimir Dasic came up with 13 points in the opening term and Montenegro claimed a 26:20 lead ten minutes into the game. Maxim Krivosheev (205-F/C-88) netted 4 straight points for Russian team to clip the distance to 2 points midway through the second stanza but Montenegro reacted quickly. They went on a 17:3 run to close the first half leading by 16 points. Durisic and Sead Sehovic (201-G/F-89) connected thrice from beyond the arc early in the third frame and Montenegrin team jumped to a 21-point lead. Russia only managed to cut it to 19 heading into the fourth stanza. But Montenegro looked solid in the final period and easily secured another impressive success in Riga. Durisic knocked down 15 points for Montenegro. Nemanja Vranjes (188-G/F-88) had 13 points, while Sead Sehovic added 11 points and 8 rebounds for the winners. Maxim Krivosheev replied with 21 points for Russia. Alexey Shved (196-G-88) tallied 13 points in defeat.

Montenegro U20: Vladimir Dasic 21+12 boards, Durisic 15, Nemanja Vranjes 13
Russia U20: Maxim Krivosheev 21, Alexey Shved 13

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NBA

Sixers re-signed Louis Williams,Pistons sign Kwame Brown,CAVS sign Kinsey,Magic sign Foyle and Arroyo leaves the NBA - by Bruno Baltazar
Philadelphia 76ers re-signed restricted free-agent guard Louis Williams (6'3''-G-86) (6'3''-G-86).
Originally the 45th overall pick by the Sixers in the 2005 NBA Draft, Williams (6-2, 175) has appeared in 171 games, averaging 7.2 points, 2.2 assists and 1.5 rebounds in 15.8 minutes per game. For his career, he has shot 42.9% from the floor, 34.7% from 3-point range and 75.7% from the line.
The 21-year-old enjoyed breakout success last season, averaging career-highs in scoring (11.5 ppg), assists (3.2 apg), rebounding (2.0 rpg) and steals (1.01 spg). Williams had the fifth highest point/rebound/assist total for any player coming off the bench last season and received votes for both the Most Improved Player and Sixth Man of the Year awards. He scored the fourth most points of any reserve last season, had the second-most assists, tallied the most steals and recorded the third-most free throw attempts.

Detroit Pistons signed free agent center Kwame Brown (6'11''-F/C-82, agency: Priority Sports).
Brown, 26, appeared in 38 games (15 starts) last season with the Los Angeles Lakers and Memphis Grizzlies averaging 4.8 points, 4.9 rebounds and 1.2 assists in 18.8 minutes per game. He was acquired by the Grizzlies on February 1 from the Lakers along with Javaris Crittenton, Aaron McKie, the rights to Marc Gasol, two future first round picks and cash considerations in exchange for Pau Gasol and a 2010 second round pick. He scored in double figures four times a year ago, including a season-high 11 points at New York (4/2). Brown grabbed 10-plus rebounds on three occasions, including a season-high 11 rebounds vs. Denver (1/21) and New York (1/29).

The Cleveland Cavaliers have signed guard Tarence Kinsey (6'7''-G-84, college: S.Carolina) .
Kinsey, 24, split last season with the Memphis Grizzlies and with Fenerbahce Ulker Istanbul of the Turkish Basketball League. In 11 games with Memphis, he averaged 3.6 points on .421 shooting and 1.1 rebounds in 8.7 minutes per game. He averaged 9.2 points in 14 regular season games with Fenerbahce Ulker and posted averages of 8.8 points on .492 shooting and 2.8 rebounds in 12 Euroleague games.

The Orlando Magic re-signed free agent center Adonal Foyle (6'10''-F-75, college: Colgate), one of four members of the Magic to play in each of the team's 82 regular-season games this past season.He averaged 1.9 points and 2.5 rebounds per game this past season.

Another established NBA free agent is heading overseas.Veteran point guard Carlos Arroyo (6'2''-G-79, agency: Interperformances, college: Florida Intern.), whose future with the Orlando Magic appeared to vanish after limited minutes in the playoffs and the Magic's recent signing of Anthony Johnson, has accepted an offer from Israeli giants Maccabi Tel-Aviv.
Sources in Israel said Arroyo will receive an estimated $2.5 million net next season -- roughly the equivalent of a $5 million NBA salary after taxes -- as part of a three-year contract. The deal includes an opt-out provision that will enable Arroyo to return to the NBA after each of the next two seasons if he chooses.

USA pull narrow win against Australia - by Eurobasket News
USA - Australia 87:76

The United States National Team continued to pile up victories in the exhibition games prior to the European Championship. However the last one was the toughest so far as the USA needed to work hard to topple Australia today in Shanghai. The Aussies entered the game without their main star Andrew Bogut as he was sidelined with an injured ankle. Dwyane Wade (6'4''-G-82, college: Marquette) nailed 21 points to secure a narrow escape for the North American team. LeBron James (6'8''-F-84) knocked down 16 points, while Kobe Bryant (6'6''-G-78) added 13 for the winners. Patrick Mills (5'10''-G-88) and Chris Anstey (7'0''-C-75) answered with 13 points apiece for the Boomers. David Barlow (6'9''-F-83, college: Metro St.) had 12 points and CJ Bruton (6'2''-G-75, college: Indian Hills CC) added 11 in a losing case. The teams stayed close throughout the opening stanza. The USA managed however to claim a 22:19 advantage at the end of the first term. The Aussies loosened the grip late in the second frame and the United States capitalized. They went on an 18:4 run to clear off to a 15-point distance at halftime. David Barlow stepped up for the Boomers early in the third period. He drained a pair of three-pointers and Australia closed the gap. CJ Bruton and David Barlow once again cut the deficit to just 4 points midway through the third quarter. Dwyane Wade however netted some key baskets late in the period and the USA built a 10-point buffer heading into the final term. CJ Bruton sparked the intrigue in the game with a three-pointer in the middle of the quarter as Australia got within 8 but the United States survived the threat. The winners converted 50% from the field and forced the Aussies into 18 turnovers. The USA also had a slight advantage on the boards with 33 caroms.

USA: Dwyane Wade 22, LeBron James 16, Kobe Bryant 13
Australia: Patrick Mills 13, Chris Anstey 13

Goran Dragic taking priority for Suns - by Eurobasket News
Most of the Suns' free-agency work has dragged into August as promised.

There are two Suns roster spots to fill to get to the NBA minimum of 13 players. Phoenix is no anomaly. Fifteen other NBA teams need to sign at least two more players but the Suns are in a unique holding pattern.

After free-agency target Tyronn Lue went for Milwaukee's offer of an extra year and more money, the Suns' priority to add a backup point guard honed in on second-round draft pick Goran Dragic (6'5''-G-86, agency: Interperformances).
The Suns knew it would not be easy to bring Dragic to Phoenix this year because his contract with Spanish club Tau Ceramica does not provide a buyout clause until next year.

There was hope, though, for the Suns to work out the 22-year-old Slovenian in Phoenix during draft week. They gave up $500,000 and a future second-round pick on draft night to jump three spots and nab the man they feel can back up and eventually replace Steve Nash.

In mid-July, two sources said Dragic and Tau had negotiated a buyout for this summer, and it was up to the Suns to find a way to give him a multiyear contract starting at almost $2 million. That would help Dragic cover the cost of buying out his Tau deal beyond the $500,000 the Suns can contribute directly.

His buyout would be more this year than the $1.55 million it would take in 2009. Now, the onus has reverted to the Dragic and Tau camps to cut through the red tape.

Signing Dragic no longer would require the Suns to make a payroll-cutting move first. Dragic would cost the Suns twice his salary because their payroll likely will result in a luxury tax of $5 million to $6 million. Despite trade rumors involving Leandro Barbosa, a summer deal appears doubtful.

Dragic told a Spanish newspaper in July that the best thing for him was to play for Tau, but he sounded as convincing about hopes to join the Suns when talking to The Republic in June. Meanwhile, Tau has pursued other point guards, apparently to fill a backup role Dragic was pegged to handle.

The Suns plan to be patient waiting for a resolution on Dragic but will return to seeking a veteran free agent to be their backup point guard if they are unable to sign Dragic this summer. They are limiting themselves to veteran minimum offers.

Carlos Arroyo appears headed for Israel, thwarting hopes he would slip into the clearance bin. Suns center Shaquille O'Neal wants ex-Miami teammate Jason Williams. There are also journeymen (see Mike Wilks) or older vets (Damon Stoudamire and Sam Cassell) to consider. Shaun Livingston is intriguing but not in the role to rest Nash more because he is months away from being able to play.

The Suns likely will use their other roster spot for a big man. Brian Skinner signed with the Clippers, making Sean Marks' return a possibility, but Phoenix could opt for a veteran on a non-guaranteed deal to see who shakes loose in September and October.

Courtesy of www.azcentral.com

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NCAA1

Former South Carolina Tarence Kinsey signs with Cleveland Cavaliers - by Eurobasket News
Former South Carolina men's basketball player Tarence Kinsey (6'7''-G-84, college: S.Carolina) signed a contract with the Cleveland Cavaliers, the organization announced on Monday. Kinsey split last season with the Memphis Grizzlies and with Fenerbahce Ulker Istanbul of the Turkish Basketball League.

In 11 games with Memphis last season, Kinsey averaged 3.6 points on .421 shooting and 1.1 rebounds in 8.7 minutes per game. He averaged 9.2 points in 14 regular season games with Fenerbahce Ulker and posted averages of 8.8 points on .492 shooting and 2.8 rebounds in 12 Euroleague games.

As a rookie in the NBA during the 2006-07 season, Kinsey played in 48 games (12 starts) with the Grizzlies and averaged 7.7 points on .457 shooting, 2.0 rebounds and 1.1 steals in 20.2 minutes per game.

During his senior season at South Carolina, Kinsey averaged 34.8 minutes per game, 15.8 points per game and 4.6 rebounds per contest. Kinsey played an integral role in South Carolina's NIT Championship during his junior season in 2005, hitting the winning three-point shot to clinch the Gamecock victory.

Courtesy of www.cstv.com

Pat Knight of Texas Tech names Chris Beard associate head coach - by Eurobasket News
Texas Tech head coach Pat Knight announced this afternoon that Chris Beard has been promoted to associate head coach for the men's basketball program.

'I'm pleased to announce that Chris Beard has been promoted to the position of associate head coach at Texas Tech. This advancement for Chris is certainly well earned and well deserved. He has done an outstanding job in our program and it shows the confidence and trust I place in his abilities and his work ethic,' declared Pat Knight .

Chris Beard begins his eighth season at Texas Tech University, after a wealth of successful coaching and recruiting experience from the NCAA Division I, NCAA Division II, NAIA, and Junior College levels.

'I really value having the lifetime opportunity to work with Coach Bob Knight for seven years. I'm very grateful to him for giving me the opportunity to be on his staff here at Texas Tech. I'm equally excited to work with Coach Pat Knight and I appreciate him giving me this new opportunity,' Beard stated.

Before joining Coach Bob Knight's staff at Texas Tech, Beard was the head basketball coach at Seminole State College in Oklahoma during the 2000-2001 season. His SSC team posted a 25-6 record and was nationally ranked in the NJCAA poll throughout the year, finishing the season ranked #14 in the country.

In the 1999-2000 season, Beard was the head basketball coach at Fort Scott Community College, leading the Greyhounds to their best season in over a decade with a 19-12 record and regional tournament bid in the Kansas Jayhawk Conference. In two seasons as a head coach, Beard accumulated a 44-18 record and advanced to two post-season regional tournaments. Equally impressive, eighteen of Beard's players received four-year university scholarship offers, including nine to NCAA Division I schools.

During the 1997-1999 seasons, Beard was an assistant coach at the University of North Texas under head coach Vic Trilli. UNT's 1998 and 1999 recruiting classes both received national attention.

Beard was an assistant coach at Abilene Christian University in 1996-97 under head coach Shannon Hays. As recruiting coordinator, he helped sign a recruiting class that was nationally ranked among NCAA Division II schools. ACU finished the season with a 15-12 record and advanced to the Lone Star Conference post-season tournament.

In 1995-1996, Beard was a graduate assistant coach at the University of the Incarnate Word in San Antonio, Texas under head coach Danny Kaspar. He helped lead UIW to a 20-9 season and the Heart of Texas Conference Championship.

Beard is a 1995 graduate of the University of Texas at Austin with a Bachelor of Science degree in Kinesiology. During his stay in Austin, he worked as a student assistant for head coach Tom Penders. Beard completed his master's degree in education from Abilene Christian University in 1998.

Born in Marietta, Georgia and raised in Irving, Texas, Chris Beard graduated from McCullough High School in The Woodlands, Texas, where he played for Coach Terry Priest. Chris and his wife, Leslie, live in Lubbock with their three daughters, Avery (8 years) and Ella (5 years), and Margo (1 year).

Courtesy of www.cstv.com

Memphis reports possible violation to NCAA - by Eurobasket News
The University of Memphis men's basketball program reported a possible violation to the NCAA on Thursday.

School officials said they learned that Dave Bronczek, president of Memphis-based FedEx and a school booster, telephoned a woman who is a FedEx employee and the mother of a high school player being recruited by the school.

Boosters are prohibited by NCAA rules from having any contact with recruits or their parents. Bronczek made an early July phone call to Oseye Gaddy, mother of point guard Abdul Gaddy of Tacoma, Wash., and a FedEx employee in the Seattle area for more than a decade.

``All he said was, I heard about your son, how good he is and told her she's doing a great job,'' Abdul Gaddy told The Commercial Appeal. ``It wasn't a long conversation or anything.''

Athletic director R.C. Johnson said he did not know about the phone call until he was contacted Thursday by Foxsports.com.

Johnson said he expects it to be deemed a secondary violation, which would not result in any penalties.

Johnson told a booster gathering Thursday night that ``we consider this incident an inadvertent mistake. We have contacted both the conference (Conference USA) office and the NCAA with the information.''

Memphis lost to Kansas in overtime in the NCAA championship game in April.

Courtesy of www.ncaa.com

Northwestern names Ivan Vujic assistant coach - by Eurobasket News
Northwestern head coach Bill Carmody has announced the addition of Ivan Vujic to the Wildcat's staff as an assistant coach. Vujic comes to NU after most recently serving as the Director of Basketball Operations at DePaul University the past two years. He begins his duties August 1.

'My staff and I are very excited to welcome Ivan to our program', Carmody said. 'I know he is excited about the opportunity to move into a full-time assistant coaching position and I believe his addition will pay dividends in recruiting as well as on the floor. He has learned from two coaches I have great respect for in Coach Homer Drew and Coach Jerry Wainwright and they could not say enough good things about him. I look forward to watching Ivan instill his work ethic and toughness in our talented big kids as well as the rest of the team.'

A native of Split, Croatia, Vujic played collegiate basketball at Valparaiso University from 1998-2000. He played center for the Crusaders for two seasons, averaging 10.6 points and 5.7 rebounds per game while helping lead the team to a pair of Mid-Continent Conference regular season and tournament titles and two ensuing NCAA tournament appearances. He went on to earn a Bachelor of Arts degree with a minor in physical education from Valparaiso in 2006.

Before joining the Crusaders, Vujic played two seasons at Vincennes (Ind.) University from 1996-98. Vujic was named a fourth-team Junior College All-American by Street & Smiths Basketball Magazine before his second season at Vincennes.

Upon the completion of his collegiate career, Vujic played four professional seasons in Europe and Puerto Rico before coaching the B.C. Dubrava-Zagreb club team. He then returned to Valparaiso where he served as an assistant coach for the 2005-06 season before spending the past two seasons at DePaul.

'Speaking for everyone in the DePaul community, I would like to congratulate Ivan on his appointment as a full-time assistant coach to Bill Carmody s staff at Northwestern University', said DePaul head coach Jerry Wainwright. 'Ivan has an outstanding future in the coaching profession and we all wish him the best.'

Courtesy of http://sports.yahoo.com

Josh Ealy promoted to assistant coach at Appalachian State University - by Eurobasket News
Josh Ealy has been promoted to assistant mens basketball coach at Appalachian State University head coach Houston Fancher announced Friday. Ealy is no stranger to the Mountaineer program, having spent last season as graduate assistant on the ASU staff.

Ealy replaces former assistant Ahmad Smith, who resigned to pursue a professional head coaching opportunity in Ireland.

In addition to his on-court responsibilities, Ealy will also serve as the teams academic liaison, coordinate film exchange and video editing and oversee the continued development and expansion of the Mountaineers summer camp program.

A 2007 graduate of Tusculum College, Ealy played three seasons for the Pioneers. He helped leading the squad to the NCAA Division II Tournament and a South Atlantic Conference title 2005. Ealy began his collegiate career at Tennessee Wesleyan before transferring to Tusculum in his hometown of Greeneville, Tenn.

Courtesy of www.goasu.com

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NCAA3

Bridgewater basketball coach Bill Leatherman retires - by Eurobasket News
Bill Leatherman, after 42 years as a basketball coach, the last 23 at Bridgewater College, announced his retirement on Tuesday at a press conference in the Funkhouser Center for Health and Wellness.

Leatherman, who two weeks ago told athletic director Curt Kendall he would coach a final year, changed his mind over the weekend, and will retire to North Carolina.

'I'm 67 and eligible for full Social Security,' he quipped. 'I couldn't have had it any better than the 23 years I was here.

'It was a very difficult decision to make, but once you do it at my age, you're done. The last couple of days, I've had extreme relief. In 42 years of coaching, we've never had a Thanksgiving or Christmas vacation that your mind wasn't cluttered with basketball, and I'm looking forward to that time.'

The Bridgewater mentor recalled some of the highlights of nearly a quarter-century of Eagle basketball, noting that he always looked forward to the beginning of the season on Oct. 15, and putting the team together.

'My favorite thing was watching the guys get better,' he said. 'I've never been crazy about the games.'

Despite his fondness for practices, Leatherman was immensely successful on the court, finishing with a 335-262 (.561) record which makes him the Eagles' all-time winningest coach.

He was named the Old Dominion Athletic Conference coach-of-the-year four times, and was likewise the South Region coach-of-the-year on four occasions. He was also the recipient of the National Association of Basketball Coaches Guardians Award for Advocacy, one of the top honors a coach can receive from the NABC.

Three times he took his team to the NCAA tournament with one advancement to the Sweet 16. And over his career, he coached three all-Americans Ramsey Yeatts, Dan Rush and Kyle Williford.

'This can be a happy time, or a sad time,' Kendall said at the press conference. 'He won't have to worry about all that paperwork, but we are losing a veteran coach. He will be missed, not only as a friend, but as a colleague.'

Robert E. Lee assistant varsity boys' basketball coach Jarrett Hatcher was one of about a dozen well-wishers on hand.

'I graduated in 1993 and he got me into coaching,' Hatcher said. 'I was a manager, a student assistant my sophomore year and an assistant coach the third year. He's always been a good role model, and I've learned a lot of basketball from him.'

Spotswood High School boys basketball coach Chad Edwards, who was recruited to BC by Hatcher and also was Hatchers college roommate, had the honor of playing for Leatherman from 1990-94.

I wouldnt be where Im at today without Coach Leatherman, Edwards said. What stood out was his thorough knowledge of basketball. That made a lasting impact on me. Not only did he know his system, but the system of our opponent inside and out. He knew there was more than one way to beat a team.

Leathermans teams were always known as good shooters, and Edwards said that was no fluke.

He always stressed taking and making good shots, but he did so without putting pressure on the player.

Coach ran a program that people wanted to be part of, Edwards said. He knew the players he wanted to represent the program. I was extremely fortunate to be part of that.

Bridgewater women's basketball coach Jean Willi worked beside Leatherman for over 20 years. 'I will miss him both professionally and personally,' she said. 'We've shared a lot of things. He's been a great friend.'

Kendall said that a full search for a replacement will begin immediately, and that the position should be filled by the first week in September.

'I would like to see (assistant coach) Patrick Weller get it,' said Leatherman of a potential successor. 'He's been here nine years. But it is not my call.'

Leatherman said that he had contacted all his players earlier in the day. He said his recruits were 'all fine with it.'

Leatherman left one strong suggestion, and it dealt with aging Hall and the need to update the facility.

'It needs to be addressed,' he said. 'It's not like resurfacing a track. It will take some rich donor. But it's a factor in recruiting.'

Courtesy of www.newsleader.com

Babson names Jeremy Viens new assistant coach - by Eurobasket News
Jeremy Viens has been named Babson College's new Assistant Coach, the Athletics Department announced recently. He will join Head Coach Stephen Brennan's staff as the Beavers look to challenge for their third NEWMAC title since 2002.

After receiving his Bachelor's degree from Syracuse University in 2002, Viens spent two seasons as the assistant men's basketball coach at Ferrum College in Virginia. He then spent the next three seasons as an assistant coach at Elmira College, where he received his Master's degree in June of 2006. Over the last year, Viens has worked as a head coach for the Team New England Select AAU program in nearby Brookline, as well as the Director of Operations for Hoop Mountain Basketball in Beverly.

'We're very excited to have Jeremy as a member of our coaching staff,' says Brennan, who is entering his 14th season as head coach. 'He has already proven to be enthusiastic, hard working, and energetic, and I believe he will play a major role in helping our program improve over the new few years.'

Originally from Randolph, Vermont, Viens currently resides in Waltham, Massachusetts.

Courtesy of www.cstv.com

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NICARAGUA

Pumas tie their series - by Gianni Pascucci
Pumas de la Unival defeated 104-101 Tigres de la UdeM, tieing the ACB semifinal on 1-1. Larry Posey (196-F-86) scored 24 points to lead Pumas, and Jamarr Hardy (193-G-83, agency: 011 Sports, college: Lenoir CC) added 20 pts. Keyshawn Reed (183-G-84) was the game top scorer at 32, Edwin Walters added 23 at the losing side. In the other series, Tiburones won two consecutive games, the #2 115-105 and the #3 99-87 and now lead their series 2-1. The best performers of Game 3 were Johnny Lampson (198-F/C-80) with 26 and Pedro Salazar (204-C-72) with 19, while Troy Watson (197-F/C-82) scored 11 points in his debut in Vikingos.

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NORWAY

PANAMA

National Team Camp opens today - by Gianni Pascucci

The Panamanian Basketball Federation (FEPABA) released the list of the 21 players convocated at the Panama National Team Camp, to start today at 6:00 pm at the Gimnasio de la Escuela Profesional Isabel Herrera Obalda (E.P.I.H.O.) en Punta Pacfica. The true noverlty is Ernesto Oglivie (204-F-88, agency: DR. Carlos Sifuentes), MVP of the CBS 2008. The full squad is as follows:
1.- Anibal Salazar (-G-88)
2.- Isaac St.Rose (190-G-84, college: John Brown)
3.- Reyjavick De Gracia (203-F/C-81, agency: DR. Carlos Sifuentes, college: John Brown)
4.- Joel Tesis (204-F/C-85, college: John Brown)
5.- Jaime Lloreda (201-F/C-80, agency: HM Sports Agency, college: LSU)
6.- Juan Gondola (183-G)
7.- Jhamar Johnson (192-G-81)
8.- Ernesto Oglivie
9.- Orlando Ortega (196-F-81)
10.- Maximiliano Gomez (196-G/F-75)
11.- Alberto Hinds (-G)
12.- Jair Peralta (178-G-76, college: Tennessee-Martin)
13.- Joel Munoz (179-G-80, agency: HM Sports Agency)
14.- Alejandro Cajar (190-G/F-78)
15.- Dimas Valentin (197-F-85)
16.- Ricardo Yearwood (197-F-70, college: Briar Cliff)
17.- Fabio Gomez (193-F-76)
18.- Winston Gallimore (200-F)
19.- Randy Lay (180-G-80)
20.- Daniel King (203-F-87)
21.- Jonathan King (187-G-90)

The National Team Head Coach will be Enrique Grenald and his assistant will be Jose Munoz .

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PARAGUAY

UAA wins Metropolitan league - by Gianni Pascucci
Universidad Autonoma de Asuncion (UAA) defeated Universidad Catolica (UCA) 68-65 in Game 4 of the Finals, becoming the 2008 Metropolitamn League Champion. With 20 points and tons of rebounds, Leonardo Maier (198-C-72) was the main factor in the win, Edgar Morel (185-G-80) added 12 points and the winning side, while Hector Vairoletto (188-F) and Oscar Vairoletto (198-F/C-84) scored 15 and 14 pts, respectively for UCA. Thanks to the win in this so-named 'Torneo Estadio Comuneros, Universidad Autonoma qualified for the 'Top 5 Tournment', together with the best four teams of Asuncion, Sol de America, San Jose Vitathon, Libertad and Felix Perez Cardozo. The 'Top 5' will start on August 7.

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POLAND

PORTUGAL

U20 EC, division B: Portugal cruises past Finland for 4-0 in Preliminary Round - by Eurobasket News
U20 Finland - U20 Portugal 63-76

Portugal finished competition in Preliminary Group A with perfect score 4-0 advancing to the Qualifying Round of U20 European Championship division B. This time Finland was the team which suffered Portugal's power. Despite this defeat Finland still has a chance to reach the next round. Namely, if Finland succeeds to beat F.Y.R. Macedonia in the next round and at the same time if Norway take care of Great Britain second place will be reserved for Finland.

Finland had many troubles in the paint against the Portuguese, which registered ten rebounds more than its opponent. At the same time Portuguese had wonderful stroke from behind the arc making 11 of 21 attempts. Jose Silva (194-F-89) drained 4 of those 11 attempts for his team. First ten minutes of the game belonged to Portugal, which ended it with plus 5. Finland had much better performance in the next period and mostly owing to Aleksi Huuskonen (184-G-88) and Juho-Matti Lehtoranta (191-G-89) tied the score on 32-32 before the half time. Aleksi Huuskonen continued at the same rhythm after the breather which resulted with 42-35 in 16th minute. Fernando Sico (202-F/C-88) and Jose Silva immediately answered leading 13-5 run for 47-48. At the middle of the last frame Portuguese made another impressive run 15-3 setting the score on unreachable 56-71.

Jose Silva was the key player of Portugal in this game adding 16 points and 6 boards. Interesting is that Tiago Pinto (183-G-88) and Fernando Sico had exactly the same digits 12 points and 6 rebounds. Finland got the most from Aleksi Huuskonen, who finished the game with 16 points and 6 rebounds. Juho-Matti Lehtoranta followed him collecting 11 points and 9 rebounds while Ojala had 10 points and 4 boards.

U20 Finland - U20 Portugal 63-76
(15-20, 17-12, 15-16, 16-28)

Finland: Aleksi Huuskonen 16 (6 rebs), Juho-Matti Lehtoranta 11 (9 rebs), Ojala 10 (4 rebs)
Portugal: Jose Silva 16 (6 rebs), Tiago Pinto 12 (6 rebs), Fernando Sico 12 (6 rebs)

Anastacio Sami signs with Belenenses - by Bruno Baltazar
Belenenses signed another player,this time a veteran and well experienced player named Anastacio Sami (207-C-76) ,the 31 years old player represented Vagos past season with the fallowing averages 11 games: 8.7ppg, 4.9rpg, 1.2spg, 2FGP: 33.3%, 3PT: 35.6%, FT: 71.0% ,previously Vagos he played for teams such as Lusitania,CAB,Porto,Queluz and Sporting , will be secure option to use coming out of the bench,can play inside and shots well from the 3 points line as well.

Two former Barreirense players will compete in LEB Oro and LEB Silver - by Bruno Baltazar
Two of the best players in the league ,included the last year league MVP will move from the portuguese side of FC Barreirense to the spanish league.

Deforrest Riley-Smith (198-G/F-84, college: Southern) that last season for FC Barreirense did 21 games being the 5th top league scorer with averages of 18.4ppg, 5.1rpg, 3.3apg, 2.0spg will now move to the spanish team of
Club Baloncesto Clavijo more known as Caja Rioja due to their sponsor that will compete in the LEB Silver(LEB plata).

Darrell Harris (208-C-84, college: Rhode Island) the FC Barreirense center last season and the portuguese league MVP and the all star game MVP that last season played 15 games being the 4th in scoring with averages of 18.5ppg, leader of the league in rebounds per game with 12.5rpg, 1.1apg, also leader in the league with blocks per game with 2.1.
He will play in LEB ORO(gold) for Cidad de la Laguna Canarias,known simply as La Laguna , he will join former FC Barreirense player Jakim Donaldson (203-C/F-83, college: Edinboro) ,he played for the portuguese side in the season of 2005/06 and had averages of 22 games: 15.1ppg, Reb-5(8.3rpg), 1.8apg.

This shows FC Barreirense is a team of formation not only for portuguese players but also for americans that helps players to achieve good things in their careers.

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PUERTO RICO

BORICUAS ABROAD, Guzman in Poland and Rivera in Germany - by Alessandro Fontana
BORICUAS ABROAD
Ansel Guzman (175-G-84, agency: Paris Global Sports) will make next season his official debut in Europe. Znics, the polish team who next year qualified to play in the First Polish Division signed him with a year contract.
Guzman played last season a great BSN with Grises Humacao, He scored 18.9 ppg+6.6 apg and 5.6 rpg. He was one of the best players of the whole BSN. Ansel Guzman will not be the only 'boricua' to play in the Polish League where also in the next season there will be Joel Jones (196-G/F-81, agency: Paris Global Sports, college: Sacramento St.) who plays for Politechnika and Donald Copeland (178-G-84, college: Seton Hall) who plays for BOT Turow after a good season in Polpharma where He was the best scorer of the team with almost 20 points per game.

Filiberto Rivera

(187-G-82, college: UTEP) comes back in Germany, after his experience with Artland Dragons (2006-2007, 11.7 ppg and 4.3 apg) He signed a year contract for Bamberg. Rivera played last year in Europe before in Italy with Napoli and later in Greece with Aek Athens.

In Israel, Ironi Ramat Gan signed Carmelo Lee (200-F-77, agency: Paris Global Sports, college: Long Beach St.) as forward for next season. Lee played last season a good BSN with Conquistadores Guaynabo and He had also an experience in South Korea.

A. Fontana

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RUSSIA

SEBL

City B-League Playoffs are in full swing... - by David Archer
CITY CONF. & WSEBL PLAYOFFS:

Mon. Aug. 4th @ JH Morgan Gym:

Play-in Games...
WSEBL: #5 Seed Lady Colonels 44 vs. #4 seed Primetime 49
City: E#5 Polk 55 vs. E#4 AWU-Howren 69
City: W#5 Rockmart 63 vs. W#4 BC Knicks-2 72
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Tue. Aug. 5th @ JH Morgan Gym:

City Conference Quarter-Finals...
City: E#3 Owen FH 68 vs. E#2 BC Sixers 94
City: W#3 Dalton WSC 61 vs W#2 Cedartown 79
City: E#4 AWU-Howren 56 vs. E#1 Summer Hill 92
City: W#4 Knicks-2 54 vs. W#1 North Metro 107
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Fri. Aug. 8th @ JH Morgan Gym:
7:00pm City East Division Semis: #2 Sixers vs. #1 Summer Hill
8:00pm City West Division Semis: #2 Cedartown vs. #1 North Metro
----------------------------------------------
Sat. Aug. 9th @ JH Morgan Gym:
3:30pm WSEBL Semis #3 104.9/HOL vs. #2 Kennesaw
4:30pm WSEBL Semis #4 PrimeTime vs. #1 Baseline-3
----------------------------------------------
Sunday August 10th:

WSEBL CHAMPIONSHIP...
Aug. 10th 3:00pm - WSEBL Womens

City Conference CHAMPIONSHIP...
Aug. 10th 4:30pm SEBL City B-League
----------------------------------------------

*****************************************************

SERBIA

Serbia U20 edges Spain U20 in Group F - by Eurobasket News
Serbia U20-Spain U20 80:73

Serbia U20 won the battle for the second win in Group F beating Spain U20 in the first game of the Qualifying round for both teams. A 26:14 in the last period was the final spurt for the winners that improved to 2-1. Miroslav Raduljica (212-C-88, agency: CAA Sports) led Serbia with 22 points and 13 rebounds. Milan Macvan (205-F/C-89) and Marko Keselj

16
Spain U20:Xavier Rabaseda 26, Victor Claver 17

Partizan Igokea extends Novica Velickovic - by Dragan Jankovski

Reining Serbian and Adriatic league champion Partizan Igokea extended contract with power forward Novica Velickovic (205-F-86) until summer 2010. Velickovic, who is currently important part of the project of Serbian senior National Team, had a valid contract for one more year but both sides agreed to extend it for another one. It is the last prove that Velikovic won't leave the Black-and-whites this summer as it was mentioned over the past month. Except of Pekovic, Kecman and Palacio, Velickovic also had an extremely important role in his team last season. He played 22 games in Euroleague finishing it as a fifth rebounder with 6.9 rpg. At the same time he had 10.6 ppg and 1.6 apg. Almost the same digits Velickovic registered in Adriatic league as well as in Serbian Superleague.

As a reminder Partizan Igokea already agreed terms with Jan Vesely (210-F/C-90), Aleksandar Rasic (195-G-84, agency: Beo Basket) and Vukasin Aleksic (185-G-85, agency: Beo Basket) at the off-season.

Vladimir Golubovic signed for Union Olimpija - by Zoran Popovic
Former player of Vojvodina Srbija Gas Novi Sad Vladimir Golubovic (212-C-86) signed contract with Union Olimpija Ljubljana. Lot of European clubs were very intrested in Golubovic, also Partizan and Crvena Zvezda, but Golubovic chooses Olimpija. I signed two years contract with Union Olimpija Ljubljana. I had a lot of interesting offers, but I decided to signed for Slovenian team. Olimpija offered me the best conditions and I think I will have enough space to play. Head coach of Union Olimpija Ljubljana is Aleksandar Dzikic who won Slovenian National league and Cup, also is known as a coach who builds young players.
Vladimir Golubovic began career in Vojvodina Srbija Gas Novi Sad and played for them in period 2002-2008. In last season for Vojvodina Srbija Gas Novi Sad Golubovic scored in Adriatic leaguje average 13.3 points and 8.7 rebounds per game. After the season Golubovic played NBA Summer league in Las Vegas, but he decided to stay in Europe and to build his skills and experience in Euroleague.

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SLOVAKIA

U20 EC, division B: Losonsky and Vido lead Slovakia against Switzerland - by Eurobasket News
U20 Slovak Republic - U20 Switzerland 71-58

Slovak Republic registered an extremely easy victory against Switzerland, which remains winless in Preliminary Group C after three games. On the other side Slovakians improved to 1-2 but they don't any chances for the next stage as Belgium and Estonia already booked two spots from this group.

Slovak Republic took this one mostly owing to fantastic performance by Pavel Losonsky (203) and Roman Vido (204-C-88). After not so good first stanza, Slovakians took control on Switzerland in the next one. They intensified defense which resulted with many mistakes and missed shots by Switzerland. Everything outcame with 9-19 in the second period which meant that Slovakia went in to the second half with 9 points lead, 36-27. Pavel Losonsky and Roman Vido picked up where they left of in the first half. In just couple of minutes in third period they led 10-2 run creating advantage of 16 points for their team. Switzerland wasn't able to threat until the end. On the other side Slovakians played tough few minutes at the beginning of the last stanza in order to secure this win. After 62-47 in 34th minute they could slow down until the very end.

Pavel Losonsky and Roman Vido collected together 48 points and fantastic 31 rebounds for their team. Juraj Hasan (199-C-89) followed them with 10 points and 10 boards. Roger Rubsam (196-F-89) and Miroslav Petkovic (183-G-88) contributed with 12 points each for the loosing side. Slovakia's next rival on U20 EC division B will be Austria. On the other side Switzerland will meet undefeated Belgium.

U20 Slovak Republic - U20 Switzerland 71-58
(17-18, 19-9, 19-12, 16-19)

Slovak Republic: Pavel Losonsky 24 (16 rebs), Roman Vido 24 (15 rebs), Juraj Hasan 10 (10 rebs)
Switzerland: Roger Rubsam 12 (7 rebs), Miroslav Petkovic 12

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SLOVENIA

Market news - by Uros Vujic
Elektra Esotech signed experienced Ernest Novak (194-G-77, agency: Interperformances), who played for Slovan, Olimpija and other respectable teams in his career. They also re-signed Nikola Ivanovic (192-G-84) for the upcoming season. Zagorje KD FT signed Mihailo Nesovic (197-G-85) and is close to extend Milos Savkovic (209-F/C-86) and Gilbert Goodrich (178-G-82) for the upcoming season.Parklji Bezigrad (1B) signed Srboljub Nedeljkovic (202-C-79), for the next season.

Olimpija inks Golubovic, Memcic moves to Bulgaria - by Zeljko Zule
Union Olimpija inked 2007-08 Adriatic NLB League leading rebounder Vladimir Golubovic (212-C-86) ex Vojvodina for two seasons.
BOS-SLO Fuad Memcic (210-C/F-82, agency: Promotex) had left Spanish team Desarrolo Utebo to join Spartak Pleven from Bulgaria. Last season he averaged 28,9 minutes, 16,8 points,7,7 rebounds and 0,7 assist in 26 games of EBA League.
.

Slovenia fire down Greece at the start of classification round - by Eurobasket News
Slovenia U20 - Greece U20 77:70

Slovenian U20 National Team made the first step towards securing their spot in Division A of the European Championship. Today they defeated Greek counterparts in the opening game of the classification round. Four teams are fighting to avoid relegation to Division B for the next season. Dejan Cigoja (204-F/C-88, agency: Interperformances) nailed 24 points and grabbed 7 boards as Slovenia outsmart Greece. The lead changed hands throughout the opening stanza but Lapornik, Gavric and Tomic capped it with a 6:0 run to give Slovenia a 16:11 advantage into the second period. Dejan Cigoja knocked down 11 points in the second frame as Slovenia remained ahead 37:34 at halftime. Edin Alispahic (208-F/C-88) and Mirko Mulalic (195-F-88) opened the second half with four back-to-back three-pointers and Slovenia surged ahead 49:34. Dejan Cigoja then took over for Slovenian team as he dropped 5 points late in the quarter and the margin stayed at 12-point mark entering the fourth term. Greece tried to save the game as they trimmed the deficit to 6 points midway through the fourth quarter. Evangelos Sakellariou (196-F/G-89, agency: FCM) and Georgios Bogris (209-C/F-89) later allowed Greece to come as close as 4 points but Slovenia survived. Virk netted 3 freebies in the dying seconds and brought Slovenia to the key win. Mirko Mulalic scored 14 points for Slovenia. Zoran Dragic (195-G-89) had 11 points, while Tomic tallied 10 points, 7 boards and 6 assists for the winners. Evangelos Sakellariou answered with 17 points for Greece. Georgios Bogris added 12 points, while Tsiarelis notched 10 in defeat. Greece will take on Bulgaria, while Slovenia face Georgia in tomorrows action.

Slovenia U20: Dejan Cigoja 24, Mirko Mulalic 14, Zoran Dragic 11
Greece U20: Evangelos Sakellariou 17, Georgios Bogris 12

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SOLOMON ISLANDS

Standings - Men

ANZ Super Six Standings

1. RAMSI	0-0
2. RSIP	0-0
3. Andel BC	0-0

*****************************************************

SPAIN

16
Spain U20:Xavier Rabaseda 26, Victor Claver 17

Fuenla Sign Guard and DKV Joventut Promote Norel - by Paul Nilsen

Alta Gestion Fuenlabrada have signed Latvian point guard Kristaps Valters the 27 year old son of legendary player Valdis Valters on a two year deal. He will lead the Madrid team together with Ferran Lopez and joins from Russian Superleague team Triumph Lyubertsy where he joined midway through last season after a spell in Italy with Legea Scafati.

Valters previously played for a couple of years in the German Bundesliga with Oldenburg. He is a quick player and solid point guard with nice passing and should be a decent pick up for Fuenla although perhaps very slightly less than usual starting ACB quality if he doesnt come off the bench. However, the Oranges have to cut their cloth with the resources they have.

Big Fuenlabrada expert Fran Martinez a fellow eurobasket writer is hoping in his blog at www.acb-basket.com that finally Ferran Lopez will have a bona-fide replacement in the form of Valters.

Fuenla coach Luis Guil is nevertheless delighted to get his man. He explained, I am very satisfied to be able to count on Kristaps Valters because the market is very demanding in the guard positions and I have signed a player who has amassed a lot of quality with experience at international level.

Valters is a point guard that knows the game and is very complete.

Meanwhile DKV Joventut have promoted 21 year old Dutchman Henk Norel (212-F/C-87) to the first team for next season after the forward proved himself in the lower Spanish leagues in recent years. Norel has played for Badalona but was loaned to CB Prat in 2006/07 where he played 32 games in LEB 2 for the now Joventut coach Sito Alonso.

Last season he played in LEB Oro, the Spanish second division for Alicante Costa Blanca where he averaged 10 points per game in a successful season although the team just missed out on promotion to the ACB itself.

*****************************************************

SWEDEN

U20 EC, division B: Sweden books a spot for the Qualifying Round - by Eurobasket News
U20 Sweden - U20 Ireland 105-62

As it was expected, Sweden grabbed the third victory in Preliminary Group B finishing it on the second place with score 3-1. On the other side Ireland remained on just one win, which happened in the last round against weak Azerbaijan. Sweden continues championship in Qualifying Group E together with Germany, Portugal and most probably F.Y.R. Macedonia of Great Britain. Ireland will take a place in Classification Round from 9th to 16th position.

As it was case during the entire championship, Ireland struggled a lot with its offensive sets. The Irish made many mistakes and bad decisions. Everything resulted with 26 turnovers at the end. At the same time Sweden totally dominated under the basket having 27 rebounds more than its opponent. With this kind of difference Ireland couldn't expect anything from this game. Difference wasn't so big until the third stanza when impressive Jeffery Taylor (200-G/F-89) was on fire. He got a help from Kim Palmqvist (201-F-88) and Mario Drazic (202-F-89) ending this period with fantastic 35-15. At that time it already was plus 28 for Sweden and every Ireland's hope immediately has gone.

Jeffery Taylor demonstrated excellent performance for the winning side today. He spent 27 minutes on court pouring in 29 points and missing only one board for double-double. Kim Palmqvist (201-F-88) helped his team with 19 points while Kim Palmqvist netted 14. Ireland got the most from Keith Anderson (188-G-89), who added 20 points and 4 glasses. Sean Kilmartin (178-G-89) was behind him posting 12 points.

U20 Sweden - U20 Ireland 105-62
(23-24, 22-13, 35-15, 25-10)

Sweden: Jeffery Taylor 29 (9 rebs), Kim Palmqvist (201-F-88) 19, Kim Palmqvist 14
Ireland: Keith Anderson 20 (4 rebs), Sean Kilmartin 12

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SWITZERLAND

TAHITI

Standings - Men

D1 Standings

1. Aorai	0-0
2. Central	0-0
3. Papara	0-0
4. Dragon	0-0
5. Excelsior	0-0
6. Manu Ura	0-0
7. J.T.	0-0
8. T. Hinano	0-0

*****************************************************

TUNISIA

Standings - D1

D1 Standings

1. ESS	17-3
2. SN	17-3
3. CA	15-5
4. EZS	15-5
5. JSK	14-6
6. USMon.	13-7
7. ESR	9-11
8. DSG	7-13
9. CSC	6-14
10. CAB	4-16
11. ASH	2-18
12. ASM Marsa	1-19

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TURKEY

Mersin signed with Hardin - by Sinan Can
TRANSFER news are spreading all around the Beko Basketball League. Mersin Buyuksehir Belediyespor who has signed with Bo Mccalebb and Chris Lofton before, announced the official agreement with American big man DeVon Hardin (211-C-86). Hardin who has graduated from California this year was a 2nd Round draft of Seattle Supersonics. The athletic and mobile man will spend a year with Mersin in the hands of Coach Ahmet Kandemir who is known as a star-creator from rookies. Newcomers Erdemirspor signed with NCAA Champions Kansas's play-maker Russell Robinson (185-G-86). Selcuk University inked with 7 footer Alex Dunn (212-F/C-82, agency: Larry Fox Services, college: Wyoming) who spent last year at Anwil Wloclawek of Poland. Aliaga Belediyespor who signed with Bergersen two weeks ago agereed terms with another familiar face. CASA Ted's ex-power forward Chuck Davis

(202-F-84, college: Alabama) will be playing for Izmir team this season.

Turkey hammer Ukraine at the start of the Qualifying round in Riga - by Eurobasket News
Turkey U20 - Ukraine U20 86:73

Turkish U20 National Team secured the first win at the Qualifying round of the European Championship today. They tipped off this stage of the tournament with a confident win over Ukraine. Turkey thus improved to 2-1 record in Group E ladder, dropping Ukraine to 1-2. Baris Hersek (204-F/C-88) and Can Ozcan (201-F-89) drained three-pointers early in the game to give Turkey a 9:2 lead. Triples later would prove the main weapon for Turkish team as they accounted for 12 of them down the stretch and converting solid 44% from beyond the arc. Oleksandr Kolchenko (198-F/G-88) and Vladyslav Tonchenko (185-G-89) hit consecutive trebles for Ukraine as they gained a 20:17 advantage at one point late in the first frame. However Ogun Sevinc (198-F/G-88, agency: 1x1 Sports) quickly denied the effort with 5 points in a row and Turkey led 25:23 after ten minutes of action. The teams exchanged baskets throughout the second frame and Ukraine kept it close but could not surge in front. Turkish team secured a 7-point buffer going into the locker room. Three treys from Ogun Sevinc early in the third term allowed Turkey to break ahead. They accumulated a 56:39 advantage and cruised from now on. Turkey entered the fourth stanza leading by 17 points and quickly piled up a 20-point cushion. Ukraine never rebounded late in the encounter and Turkey breezed to the victory at the end. Baris Hersek dropped 19 points and pulled down 7 rebounds for Turkey. Ogun Sevinc added 18 points, while Can Ozcan had 16 in a win. Sergiy Gladyr (196-G/F-89) and Vadym Norenko (204-F-88) notched 16 points apiece for Ukraine. Denys Lukashov (187-G-89) contributed 14 points in defeat.

Turkey U20: Baris Hersek 19, Ogun Sevinc 18, Can Ozcan 16
Ukraine U20: Sergiy Gladyr 16, Vadym Norenko 16

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UKRAINE

Turkey hammer Ukraine at the start of the Qualifying round in Riga - by Eurobasket News
Turkey U20 - Ukraine U20 86:73

Turkish U20 National Team secured the first win at the Qualifying round of the European Championship today. They tipped off this stage of the tournament with a confident win over Ukraine. Turkey thus improved to 2-1 record in Group E ladder, dropping Ukraine to 1-2. Baris Hersek (204-F/C-88) and Can Ozcan (201-F-89) drained three-pointers early in the game to give Turkey a 9:2 lead. Triples later would prove the main weapon for Turkish team as they accounted for 12 of them down the stretch and converting solid 44% from beyond the arc. Oleksandr Kolchenko (198-F/G-88) and Vladyslav Tonchenko (185-G-89) hit consecutive trebles for Ukraine as they gained a 20:17 advantage at one point late in the first frame. However Ogun Sevinc (198-F/G-88, agency: 1x1 Sports) quickly denied the effort with 5 points in a row and Turkey led 25:23 after ten minutes of action. The teams exchanged baskets throughout the second frame and Ukraine kept it close but could not surge in front. Turkish team secured a 7-point buffer going into the locker room. Three treys from Ogun Sevinc early in the third term allowed Turkey to break ahead. They accumulated a 56:39 advantage and cruised from now on. Turkey entered the fourth stanza leading by 17 points and quickly piled up a 20-point cushion. Ukraine never rebounded late in the encounter and Turkey breezed to the victory at the end. Baris Hersek dropped 19 points and pulled down 7 rebounds for Turkey. Ogun Sevinc added 18 points, while Can Ozcan had 16 in a win. Sergiy Gladyr (196-G/F-89) and Vadym Norenko (204-F-88) notched 16 points apiece for Ukraine. Denys Lukashov (187-G-89) contributed 14 points in defeat.

Turkey U20: Baris Hersek 19, Ogun Sevinc 18, Can Ozcan 16
Ukraine U20: Sergiy Gladyr 16, Vadym Norenko 16

A big number of the news: Budivelnyk and Azovmash friendlies plans / American coach in Ukraine / etc. - by Alexander Muzyka
- Cherkasy Monkeys announced Miljan Pupovic (210-C/F-83) officially joined the team. Serbian center has been try-outed by Monkeys for a month. Played only in Serbian teams but went abroad a year ago. Was tested by Egaleo but inked by Macedonian Strumica with 13,4 ppg and 4,5 rpg.

- Ex-Azovmash head coach Algirdas Brazys will work with Russian Enisey.

- Bill Magarity with Marty Richter will rule Budivelnyk next season. Remind, Marty Richter made a master-class to Dnipro this summer. The team ended its vacations now and is preparing to the next season. 'Builders' went to Lithuanian summer camp today for playing a couple of friendlies with a strong opponents such as BC Khimky, Dynamo, Triumph, Barons/LMT, ASK Riga, Prokom Trefl, Lietuvos Rytas, Zalgiris etc. Kyiv team will test young Yuri Gorenkov (215-C-88), Kostiantyn Ivanov (194-G-85), Oleksander Tretiakov (180-90) and Dmytro Rykhalskyi (198-F-88), too. iIt's possible for Budivelnyk to have a friendlies in Spain at September vs Tau Ceramica.

- Azovmash made a press-conference and announced the summer plans. Azov team will have camp in Slovenian Rogla from Aug. 12 till Aug. 23 and then will fly to Croatian Porec for playing friendlies vs Lasko, Spartak Primorie, Ural Great, Olimpija, KK Zadar and Puntamika. Rostov-na-Donu will host RZhD Cup at Sep. 20-21 with Lokomotiv R, Azovmash, Besiktas and one more yet unknown team. And Azovmash Cup will take place at Sep. 27-28 in Mariupol with Azovmash, BC Donetsk, Lokomotiv R and Panellinios.

- One more Ukrainian warm-up. But 6 players are apsent now:
Ukraine - Pulsar 76:57 (18:8, 24:14, 19:20, 15:15)
U: R.Kryvych 15 + 3 stl, I.Kryvych 9, Zabirchenko 8 +4 stl + 3 ast, Onufriev 8, Agafonov 6 + 9 rbs, Drozdov 5 + 6 rbs + 3 bls, Arabadzhi 4, Kravtsov 4, Silkovskyi 4, Shvets 4, Ivshyn 3, Pustozvonov 2

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UNITED KINGDOM

Tafari Toney joins Newcastle Eagles - by Eurobasket News
Newcastle Eagles are delighted to have added 6ft 8in Tafari Toney (203-F/C-86) to their squad for the forthcoming 2008/09 BBL season.

The league champions have clinched the signature of Toney who has graduated from the University of Houston where he averaged 6.8 points and 6.3 rebounds during 21 minutes per game for the Cougars in what is a highly competitive College conference.

Toney is the second new face brought in by player-coach Fab Flournoy and becomes the third forward on the Eagles roster forming a front-court trio with Lynard Stewart and Darius Defoe who both return from last season.

Toney grew up in Brooklyn and Flournoy who was also raised in New York is excited at getting the chance of working with his new player.

He explained 'Tafari can be an exciting player for us because he is very fit and extremely athletic with real size and presence on the court from his physical attributes.'

'As with any rookie player coming into the league it is a tough initiation but we have high hopes for him because he has shown at College that he isn't afraid to be aggressive.'

'He can dunk the ball and block shots while he is solid on defence and that is very important for us.'

'He is also willing to step outside and hit shots and so if we keep his confidence high and mould him into our system, he will be a key player for us in time.'
'I have spoken with him for quite some time during the summer months and I like what I have heard from him and I am hoping he will be a great fit for the team on and off the court.'

Eagles MD Paul Blake meanwhile expressed his own satisfaction at landing Toney who had one of his best games of the season against the Memphis Tigers and against number one NBA draft pick Derrick Rose and NBA draftee Joey Dorsey.

'We have tracked him for quite some time now and it is a relief to finally get him singed up.'

'With Trey Moore someone we are all looking forward to seeing for the first time at the Arena, we now have a new big guy in and it is always exciting when we sign new players.'

'Having had such a settled team for so long, I know the fans will be eager to see what the new players like Toney can do.'

'If he produces what we know he is capable of then we could have unearthed a real gem. Importantly though, he is only 21 years of age so we must remember this and give him time to adapt to the pro game. His production could take a little time but the talent is there.'

'He has the potential in the future to be a real favourite with our fans who have always enjoyed watching their athletic forwards going back to the likes of Donnie Johnson, Niki Arinze and Shawn Myers.'

'Things are coming together nicely and we just have a couple more decisions to make on senior players and if we tie down some of the younger guys, we will have recruited our team earlier than we have ever done before.'

'That can only be good for Fab and for the team as they prepare for the new season.'

At least one further player announcement will be made within the next week.

Courtesy of www.basketball247.co.uk

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VANUATU

Standings - PVBL

PVBA Standings

1. Cannons	0-0
2. Tupuji Imere	0-0
3. Stade United	0-0
4. Tatoko	0-0

*****************************************************

VENEZUELA

LPB 2008 Finals - Game 2: Cocodrilos takes revenge, evens things up 1-1 - by Francisco Vega

Barquisimeto, Venezuela.- Cocodrilos de Caracas woke up at home and defeated Gaiteros del Zulia in Game 2 with a comfortable 103-83 at Naciones Unidas Park in Caracas.

'We made mental adjustments to defeat Gaiteros', said the head coach of Cocodrilos, Nestor Salazar. 'We played with intensity the whole game. Now, to win far from our home is a compromise for us', he added.

'Yesterday, we played our worst game in the whole season', said power forward Luis Bethelmi. 'Now we paid them with the same medicine, cause we didn't make it to the finals based on luck'.

LPB 2008 FINALS
COCODRILOS DE CARACAS 103 - GAITEROS DEL ZULIA 83
Naciones Unidas Park - Caracas, D.C.
(Series tied 1-1)

Quarter by quarter
COC: 22-20-29-32= 103
GAI: 22-17-23-21= 83

Scorers
GAI: Ruben Nembhard (191-G-72) 20 points and 5 assists, Felipe Lopez (197-G/F-74) 16 points and 9 rebounds, Christopher Jeffries (199-F-80) 13 points, Askia Jones (196-G-71) 10 points, Hernan Salcedo (198-F-80) 7 points, Luis Julio (199-F-80) 6 points, Jean Carlos Espinoza (190-G/F-74) 6 points, Miguel Angel Marriaga (207-C-84) 2 points, Pedro Cubillan (187-G-82) 2 points, Jose Bravo 1 point, Jorge Leon (186-G-79) 0 points, Omar Walcott (202-C-66) 0 points

COC: Jack Michael Martinez (203-F/C-81) 19 points and 13 rebounds, Kevin Freeman (201-F-78) 18 points, Jesus Centeno (190-G-85) 15 points, Luis Bethelmi (200-C-86) 13 points and 8 rebounds, Juan Herrera (197-F-81) 13 points, Edgar Moreno (191-G-81) 11 points, Victor David Diaz (195-F-68) 10 points, Henry Paez (184-G-70) 4 points, Kevin Palacios (203-F/C-84) 0 points, Rosmel Blanco (205-C-76) 0 points, Kenji Urdaneta (188-G-85) 0 points, Vladimir Saavedra (200-F-77) 0 points

LPB 2008 Finals - Game 3: Gaiteros reacts at home and defeats Cocodrilos for 2-1 advantage - by Francisco Vega

Barquisimeto, Venezuela.- Gaiteros del Zulia returned to Belisario Aponte Gymnasium and did so with a victory over Cocodrilos de Caracas in Game 3 of the LPB 2008 Finals, to earn a 2-1 lead.

'We made the adjustments to fight the zonal defense that hurt us so much in Caracas in Game 2', said head coach Jorge Arrieta. 'The team showed a better defensive approach, was balanced enough in the offensive end and had the awakening of our Most Valuable Player, Hernan Salcedo (198-F-80, agency: DR. Carlos Sifuentes). We really needed him and also Chris Jeffries, who did what we were expecting from him'.

'Tomorrow's game will be a big challenge for both teams', said Arrieta. 'We're going to try to win it to put more pressure on them. For us, to win the championship at home is a great dream and we're going for it, but we know how difficult can it be because we have an opponent such as Cocodrilos. This game will be crucial for both teams'.

LPB 2008 FINALS
GAITEROS DEL ZULIA 88 - COCODRILOS DE CARACAS 79
Belisario Aponte Gymnasium - Maracaibo, Zulia
(Gaiteros leads 2-1)

Quarter by quarter
GAI: 20-22-16-30= 88
COC: 22-14-19-24= 79

Scorers
GAI: Hernan Salcedo (198-F-80) 25 points and 10 rebounds, Christopher Jeffries (199-F-80) 19 points, Felipe Lopez (197-G/F-74) 16 points, Ruben Nembhard (191-G-72) 15 points, Luis Julio (199-F-80) 6 points and 8 rebounds, Askia Jones (196-G-71) 3 points, Miguel Angel Marriaga (207-C-84) 2 points, Jose Bravo 2 points, Jorge Leon (186-G-79) 0 points, Jean Carlos Espinoza (190-G/F-74) 0 points, Pedro Cubillan (187-G-82) 0 points, Omar Walcott (202-C-66) 0 points

COC: Jack Michael Martinez (203-F/C-81) 25 points and 15 rebounds, Kevin Freeman (201-F-78) 21 points, Luis Bethelmi (200-C-86) 16 points and 7 rebounds, Edgar Moreno (191-G-81) 4 points, Victor David Diaz (195-F-68) 4 points, Henry Paez (184-G-70) 3 points, Juan Herrera (197-F-81) 2 points, Jesus Centeno (190-G-85) 2 points, Kenji Urdaneta (188-G-85) 2 points, Kevin Palacios (203-F/C-84) 0 points, Rosmel Blanco (205-C-76) 0 points, Vladimir Saavedra (200-F-77) 0 points

LPB 2008 Finals - Game 4: Cocodrilos hits Gaiteros hard and ties series 2-2 - by Francisco Vega

Barquisimeto, Venezuela.- Cocodrilos de Caracas did not hesitate to come back after a tight defeat as visitors and they did so in a very productive fashion, by hitting Gaiteros del Zulia hard with a 115-94 victory in Maracaibo.

LPB 2008 FINALS
COCODRILOS DE CARACAS 115 - GAITEROS DEL ZULIA 94
Belisario Aponte Gymnasium - Maracaibo, Zulia
(Seried tied 2-2)

Quarter by quarter
GAI: 25-31-22-16= 94
COC: 29-33-30-23= 115

Scorers
GAI: Ruben Nembhard (191-G-72) 20 points, Hernan Salcedo (198-F-80) 19 points, Christopher Jeffries (199-F-80) 14 points, Miguel Angel Marriaga (207-C-84) 12 points, Jean Carlos Espinoza (190-G/F-74) 12 points, Askia Jones (196-G-71) 8 points, Pedro Cubillan (187-G-82) 5 points, Jorge Leon (186-G-79) 4 points, Felipe Lopez (197-G/F-74) 0 points, Luis Julio (199-F-80) 0 points, Jose Bravo 0 points, Omar Walcott (202-C-66) 0 points

COC: Victor David Diaz (195-F-68) 24 points, Jack Michael Martinez (203-F/C-81) 18 points and 14 rebounds, Kevin Freeman (201-F-78) 16 points, Luis Bethelmi (200-C-86) 16 points, Edgar Moreno (191-G-81) 14 points, Henry Paez (184-G-70) 13 points, Juan Herrera (197-F-81) 7 points, Kevin Palacios (203-F/C-84) 7 points, Jesus Centeno (190-G-85) 0 points, Kenji Urdaneta (188-G-85) 0 points, Rosmel Blanco (205-C-76) 0 points, Vladimir Saavedra (200-F-77) 0 points

LPB 2008 Finals - Game 5: Cocodrilos stuns Gaiteros and goes ahead 3-2 - by Francisco Vega

Barquisimeto, Venezuela.- Cocodrilos de Caracas did it again against Gaiteros del Zulia, and by applying very good defense and shooting for over 70% in field goal attempts, they stunned the hosts with a 119-101 scoreboard that gave them the lead in the LPB 2008 Finals for the first time, just as the series moves back to Caracas.

LPB 2008 FINALS
COCODRILOS DE CARACAS 119 - GAITEROS DEL ZULIA 101
Belisario Aponte Gymnasium - Maracaibo, Zulia
(Cocodrilos leads 3-2)

Quarter by quarter
GAI: 25-25-26-25= 101
COC: 29-33-30-23= 119

Scorers
GAI: Felipe Lopez (197-G/F-74) 27 points, Ruben Nembhard (191-G-72) 20 points, 7 rebounds and 5 assists, Christopher Jeffries (199-F-80) 16 points, Askia Jones (196-G-71) 11 points, Miguel Angel Marriaga (207-C-84) 9 points and 8 rebounds, Hernan Salcedo (198-F-80) 9 points and 5 rebounds, Jean Carlos Espinoza (190-G/F-74) 5 points, Luis Julio (199-F-80) 4 points, Pedro Cubillan (187-G-82) 0 points, Jorge Leon (186-G-79) 0 points, Jose Bravo 0 points, Omar Walcott (202-C-66) 0 points

COC: Luis Bethelmi (200-C-86) 25 points and 5 rebounds, Kevin Freeman (201-F-78) 24 points and 5 rebounds, Edgar Moreno (191-G-81) 23 points and 6 assists, Jack Michael Martinez (203-F/C-81) 17 points and 15 rebounds, Jesus Centeno (190-G-85) 12 points, Victor David Diaz (195-F-68) 8 points, Henry Paez (184-G-70) 5 points, Juan Herrera (197-F-81) 5 points, Kevin Palacios (203-F/C-84) 0 points, Kenji Urdaneta (188-G-85) 0 points, Rosmel Blanco (205-C-76) 0 points, Vladimir Saavedra (200-F-77) 0 points

LPB 2008 Finals - Game 1: Gaiteros surprised Cocodrilos and took a 1-0 lead - by Francisco Vega

Barquisimeto, Venezuela.- Gaiteros del Zulia surprised Cocodrilos de Caracas at Naciones Unidas Park in Caracas with a switch in their style of game, by defending a lot more than usual and earning a comfortable victory, 99-77, to gain early lead in the LPB 2008 Finals.

In the match, players Heissler Guillent and Henry Paez received their respective awards as Rookie of the Year and Best Sixth Man of the Year by the LPB's president, Rolando Urdaneta and international musician Huascar Barradas.

LPB 2008 FINALS
GAITEROS DEL ZULIA 99 - COCODRILOS DE CARACAS 77
Naciones Unidas Park - Caracas, D.C.
(Gaiteros leads 1-0)

Quarter by quarter
COC: 14-18-24-21= 77
GAI: 21-34-23-21= 99

Scorers
GAI: Ruben Nembhard (191-G-72) 21 points, Felipe Lopez (197-G/F-74) 20 points, Christopher Jeffries (199-F-80) 15 points, Miguel Angel Marriaga (207-C-84) 13 points, Jose Bravo 10 points, Hernan Salcedo (198-F-80) 9 points, Askia Jones (196-G-71) 4 points, Luis Julio (199-F-80) 4 points and 6 rebounds, Jorge Leon (186-G-79) 3 points, Jean Carlos Espinoza (190-G/F-74) 0 points, Pedro Cubillan (187-G-82) 0 points, Omar Walcott (202-C-66) 0 points

COC: Juan Herrera (197-F-81) 22 points, Luis Bethelmi (200-C-86) 13 points, Jack Michael Martinez (203-F/C-81) 11 points and 7 rebounds, Jesus Centeno (190-G-85) 10 points, Kevin Freeman (201-F-78) 7 points, Edgar Moreno (191-G-81) 7 points, Victor David Diaz (195-F-68) 3 points, Kevin Palacios (203-F/C-84) 2 points, Rosmel Blanco (205-C-76) 2 points, Henry Paez (184-G-70) 0 points, Kenji Urdaneta (188-G-85) 0 points, Vladimir Saavedra (200-F-77) 0 points

*****************************************************

YEMEN

Standings - D1

D1 Standings

1. Tilal	9-0
2. Al Ahli	8-1
3. Shaa'b Ibb	7-2
4. Yarmook	6-3
5. Al Mena	5-4
6. Shamsan	4-5
7. Seyoon	3-6
8. Al Wahda A.	2-7
9. Al Hilal	1-8
10. Al Shorta	0-9

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Women News

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AUSTRALIA - Women

Australia tame Mali in Haining - by Eurobasket News
Australia - Mali 112:43

The Australian National Team pounded Mali to get their second straight win at the FIBA Diamond Ball Tournament in China. Australia obviously dominated the game and had little problems en route to the second victory. The Opals will now take on the USA in the championship game. Lauren Jackson (196-F/C-81) led the Aussies with 24 points. Mali managed to keep in front early in the first term as they enjoyed a 16:13 advantage. However the Opals capped the first frame with an 8:0 rally and grabbed a 21:19 lead into the second period. Lauren Jackson and Belinda Snell (182-F-81, agency: LBM Management) fueled a 23:0 run from the Opals in the second quarter as they took over in the game. Australia rolled to a 51:24 advantage at halftime. Australia kept it tough for Mali in the third stanza as they outgunned the African team by 30 points to 15. Australia later breezed to a deserved victory at the end. Laura Summerton (191-C-83, agency: LBM Management) knocked down 13 points for the Opals. Hollie Grima (190-C-83, agency: LBM Management) and Belinda Snell secured 12 points each for the winners. Adama Sissoko (-91) answered with 14 points for Mali. Hamchetou Maiga (185-G/F-78, college: ODU) nailed 13 points in defeat. Australia shot 53% from the field, while limiting their opponents to only 34% accuracy.

Australia: Lauren Jackson 24, Laura Summerton 13, Hollie Grima 12, Belinda Snell 12
Mali: Adama Sissoko 14, Hamchetou Maiga 13

Taylor to skip rest of WNBA season - by Eurobasket News
Penny Taylor (6'1''-F-81) won't return to the Phoenix Mercury when the Olympics end.

Taylor took off the first half of the season to train with Australia and prepare for the Beijing Games. Now, she has decided not to go back to the WNBA.

'I did make it clear to the team that I wouldn't be coming back this season after the Olympics,' Taylor told The Associated Press while practicing at the FIBA Diamond Ball tournament. 'I want them to be able to get a team together and didn't want to leave any doors open.'
Instead she will head home to Australia to spend time with her family and rest.

The defending champion Mercury sit three games behind third place Los Angeles and Sacramento in the Western Conference. Taylor was a huge part of their championship run last season, averaging 17.8 points and 6.3 rebounds for Phoenix last season. She scored 30 points in the deciding fifth game of the WNBA finals last year.

'I wanted to make sure they had their opportunity to get a full strength team and not wait for anyone,' Taylor said. 'It's disappointing, but it gave me the opportunity to prepare for this major event.'

Taylor's decision caught her Mercury teammate Diana Taurasi off guard.

'Whoa, that's the first I'm hearing of it,' said Taurasi over breakfast. 'It just means the same thing it's meant the last two months. We'll go with what we have. We just got to keep playing and fighting. We're good enough if we get rolling as we've beaten the good teams. We've just been too average. This league is very good, and we're just not playing at a good level.'

Courtesy of www.azcentral.com

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BELARUS - Women

San Antonio Silver Stars sign Valeriya Berezhynska - by Eurobasket News

The Silver Stars have signed Valeriya Berezhynska (6'4''-C-86, college: Rice) to a seven-day contract. A 6-foot-4 center, Berezhynska starred at Rice, where this spring she averaged 17 points and 9.9 rebounds. After all she was named All-C-USA 2nd Team -08.

Berezhynska was drafted by Detroit with the 42nd pick in this Aprils WNBA draft. The Shock waived her on May 5, but a week later, she signed a training-camp contract with Sacramento. She was one of the Monarchs final cuts.

The contract takes effect Aug. 28, when the Silver Stars resume play after the Olympics.

Courtesy of www.mysanantonio.com

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BELGIUM - Women

France thump Belgium in Adana - by Eurobasket News
France - Belgium 65:35

French National Team registered their first win at the International Adana Tournament in Turkey. Yesterday they cruised past Belgian team. A nearly perfect defensive effort from French team allowed them to score an impressive win over Belgium. France dominated right from the start as they held their opponents to just 9 points. France accumulated a 9-point lead heading into the second period. The defensive excellence continued in the second quarter when French side kept Belgium at bay. The lead was stretched to as many as 18 points at the interval. Belgium failed to recover after the long break as the complexion of the game did not change. France kept on rolling confidently and piled up an insurmountable 23-point advantage at three-quarter time. Les Bleus breezed to the victory in the final stanza. Isabelle Yacoubou (195-C-86) led the charge with 11 points. Emmanuelle Hermouet (184-F-80), Pauline Krawczyk (180-F-85) and Sandra Dijon (195-C-79) netted 8 points apiece for the winners. Marjorie Carpreaux (165-G-87) answered with game-high 13 points for Belgium. Laurence Van Malderen (194-C-81, agency: LBM Management) nailed 6 points in defeat. France will next take on Serbia, while Belgium will try to rebound against Turkey tonight.

France: Isabelle Yacoubou 11, Pauline Krawczyk 8+10 boards, Emmanuelle Hermouet 8, Sandra Dijon 8+11 boards
Belgium: Marjorie Carpreaux 13, Laurence Van Malderen 6

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FRANCE - Women

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GERMANY - Women

Hungary defeats German National Team twice - by Moritz Korff
The German Women's National Team lost both games of a doubleheader against Hungary on Monday and Tuesday. The first encounter ended 47:73, the final score in the second meeting was 46:75.
In both games the Germans were suffering from a slow start, but fought their way back already in the first quarter. Another similarity: Germany had some difficulties in offense and missed too many open shots in both matches.
As a consequence, Hungary earned two easy wins. Germany will take on Belgium in Koblenz on August 13 for a final exhibition game prior to the EURO-Qualifiers that start on August 16 with a home game in Hagen against Israel.

Germany (points against Hungary: game 1/game 2): Breitreiner (14/9), Koop (8/0), Richter (8/4), Danckert (6/8), Janzon (4/2), Austmann (3/3), Mersch (2/9), Mueller (2/2), Bavendam (0/9), von Geyr (0/0), Loewe (0/0).

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GREECE - Women

PAOK announce Coach Mentis - by George Manousidis
The first announcement of AS PAOK Thessalonikis is the new coach of womens team Mentis Ioannis .
Coach Mentis last two seasons was in Thermaikos Thermis as responsible for the womens academies. From 1993 to 1998 and from 2000 to 2006 was responsible from the womens academies of Poseidonas Kalamatas. From 1998 to 2000 was South County National coach and he is expert for the players development. AS PAOK Thessalonikis hired coach Mentis because he wants to make a plan for the A1 Division. The womens Basketball team found five years ago and since then every year rise category. We dont have enough money to buy every player we want but we have the desire and the intention to create a competitive team. That was the statement of Team Manager Mr. Aggelidis.

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HOLLAND - Women

Netherlands U16 victorious at the Luxembourg International Tournament - by Eurobasket News
Netherlands U16 - England U16 54:37
The Dutch U16 National Team scored an emphatic victory over England to grab the title at the Luxembourg International Youth Tournament. The event was timed to the 75th Anniversary of the Luxembourgish Basketball Federation. Netherlands played three games and came out as winners in all of them. England and Netherlands entered the final game undefeated with respective wins over Ireland and Luxembourg. The Dutch team got to a better start and led 21:13 after the first period. England fought bravely but Holland still maintained the lead and enjoyed a 36:29 cushion at the interval. Netherlands could not score for six minutes in the third stanza but England answered with only 5 points during that span and only cut the deficit to 2 points. Holland however broke the deadlock soon and went on an 18:3 rally to cap the game. Eline Kasius the winners with 18 points. Willemijn Kallenberg had 12 points for Netherlands. Temi Fagbenle knocked down 18 points for England in a loss.
Luxembourg secured the third spot in the ladder. They defeated Ireland 62:61 in the final round of action. The all results for the tournament are as follows:

Netherlands 67:30 Luxembourg
Ireland 46:58 England

Netherlands 60:44 Ireland
Luxembourg 40:60 England

England 37:54 Netherlands
Ireland 61:62 Luxembourg

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MALDIVES - Women

Standings

D1 Standings

1. R.L.C	0-0
2. Vyansa	0-0
3. B.G. Sports	0-0

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MALI - Women

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RUSSIA - Women

Russia no match for the USA - by Eurobasket News
USA - Russia 93:58

The United States National Team advanced to the championship game of the pre-Olympic FIBA Diamond Ball Tournament in China. They cruised past Russia and set up a clash against Australia in the Final. The USA never trailed en route to a stunning victory. The North American team jumped to an early 9:2 advantage and then secured a 17:10 lead after the starting period. Katie Smith (5'11''-G-74, college: Ohio St.) knocked down a three-pointer to open a double digit lead for the USA early in the second term. The USA later went on a stunning 19:2 rally that gave them a massive 43:17 lead late in the second frame. Diana Taurasi (6'0''-G-82, college: Connecticut) and Katie Smith stretched the margin to 30 points early in the third frame. But Russia were not about to fold the early. They answered with a 17:6 run that clipped the deficit to 19 points. However Candace Parker (6'4''-F/C-86, college: Tennessee) and Sylvia Fowles (6'6''-C-85, college: LSU) ensured a 27-point cushion for the USA heading into the fourth term. The North American team cruised from there on and secured their second straight win at the tournament. Diana Taurasi led the charge with 21 points. Sylvia Fowles added 15 points, while Candace Parker notched 12 points in a win. Tatiana Shchegoleva netted 14 points for Russia. Irina Osipova (6'5''-C-81) had 12 points in a losing case.

USA: Diana Taurasi 21, Sylvia Fowles 15, Candace Parker 12
Russia: Tatiana Shchegoleva (6'4''-F/C-82) 14, Irina Osipova 12

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SERBIA - Women

Turkey beat Serbia at the start of the Adana Tournament - by Eurobasket News
Turkey - Serbia 76:60

Turkish hosts the Adana International Tournament these days. Serbia, Belgium and France participate in the tourney alongside hosting Turkish team. The teams are getting fit for the upcoming qualifying games for the Eurobasket. Turkey got to a flying start of the competition when they took on Serbia yesterday. The teams were well matched in the first term and the scoreboard read 20:20 after ten minutes of action. However a tight defensive effort from Turkish team allowed Turkey to surge in front. They limited Serbia to 10 points in the second period and built a 37:30 advantage at halftime. Serbia stayed in the race as they trimmed the deficit to 4 points heading into the fourth quarter. But the hosts prevailed at the end. They outscored the visitors 22:10 in the fourth stanza and posted an impressive victory at the end. Esmeral Tuncluer (175-G-80) notched 13 points to lead Turkey. Saziye Karsli (185-F-82) had 12 points, while Isil Alben (170-G-86) knocked down 11 points for the winners. Sonja Petrovic (189-F-89) answered with 12 points and 10 boards for Serbia. Ana Perovic (195-C-77) and Dara Kovacevic (197-C-83) had 10 points each in defeat. Serbia will play against France, while Turkey will face Belgium today.

Turkey: Esmeral Tuncluer 13, Saziye Karsli 12, Isil Alben 11
Serbia: Sonja Petrovic 12+10 boards, Ana Perovic 10, Dara Kovacevic 10

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TUNISIA - Women

Standings - Women

D1 Standings

1. CSFB	11-2
2. GST	11-3
3. AH	11-4
4. ASFJ	11-4
5. ZS	11-6
6. ST	11-6
7. CSS	11-9
8. ESCB	11-10

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TURKEY - Women

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UNITED KINGDOM - Women

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WNBA - Women

San Antonio Silver Stars sign Valeriya Berezhynska - by Eurobasket News

Courtesy of www.mysanantonio.com