EUROBASKET NEWS REPORT - 8/8/2008

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Men News

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  ADRIATIC LEAGUE   


Grant and Brun in Split! - by Dani Erceg

KK Split inked Antonio Grant (196-F-77, college: S.Carolina) and Stephen Brun (202-F-80). Grant came from Lithuanian Siauliai where he averaged 16.1ppg, 5.1rpg and 1.6apg in ULEB Cup. Brun came from Gravelines where he averaged 10.6ppg, 4.8rpg and 1.8apg in Pro-A.





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  ARGENTINA   


two young players to USA - by Facundo Iatzky
After the decision of Juan Manuel Fernandez who will play in Temple the next season, two players took the same decision. They are: Lisandro Ruiz Moreno (185-G-89) and Lucas Faggiano (186-G-89). Lucas Faggiano who comes from Estudiantes Bahia Blanca will play in University of Loyola Chicago (NCAA). Lucas is a complete combo guardwith experience in Liga A and in the National team U16. On the other hand Lisandro Ruiz Moreno will play in south Kent college (prep school) looking for a good university in the next season. Lisandro had a good season the last year in Echague Parana(TNA) .

Last transactions - by Facundo Iatzky
LigaA:
Quimsa: Signed young player Miguel Gerlero (192-G-88) who had a good season in 9 de Julio.

TNA:
Echague Parana signed Pablo D'Angelo as head coach and Luciano Rivero (186-G-80). they had been signed by San Martin Corrientes but left the team due to personal reasons. They also signed Matias Barberis (196-F-84) Oscar Heis (192-F/G-77) Sebastian Porta (204-C-79) Gabriel Dominguez (184-G-82)
San Martin Corrientes hired Daniel Frola as head coach. They signed: Gustavo Mascaro (185-G-80) (will be the replacement of Rivero).and Luciano Gonzalez (196-F-90), member of The U18 NT.
Pedro Echague resigned Juan Pablo Boadaz as head coach and signed Diego Eiguren (183-G-81) Alejandro Eiguren (185-G-86) Nicolas Suarez (200-C-74) Ignacio Kelly Bruno Martire (203-C-87) and Rob Thomas (191-G-85).
Belgrano San Nicolas signed veteran Carlos Colla (186-G-66). 'Caco' will play his 12th in Belgrano.
Asocacion Espanola signed Nick Wallery (201-F-81, college: Albany St.)
San Martin Marcos Juarez signed former Lanus David Cabezas (196-F-88)

LigaB:
Rosario Central: signed Diego Fessia (203-F/C-77) Juan Pablo Luppo, Manuel Morello, Omar Zanocco (194-F/C-75) and Juan Gandoy (180-G-82)
Tomas De Rocamora signed Gabriel Menza
El Sureno signed Andres Berman (188-G/F-85) marcos maidana, Alexis Pasos
Ciudad Bragado signed Ezequiel Romero
Deportivo Facundo signed David Vera (200-F/C-80), Martin Omar Vaquero (196-G/F-76), Gabriel Fuentes (202-C), Rodrigo Campos, Claudio Marcelo Cufre (197-G-76), Marcelo Olmos and Federico Narvaez

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  AUSTRIA   


U20 EC, division B: Austria edges Hungary - by Eurobasket News
U20 Hungary - U20 Austria 72-85

Austria outplayed Hungary in the last game of Qualifying Round for 9th to 16th place taking the first position in Group H. Hungarians also will have an opportunity to fight for the ninth place as they are the second rankled team in the same group and with the same score. Next rival of Austria in Targu Mures will be Norway while Hungary will take on Czech Republic.

Beginning of the game belonged to Austria. After opening three minutes it was 4-10 for the official visitor in this game. Very soon, thanks to Milan Csorvasi (209-F/C-88, agency: FCM) and Zoltan Supola (193-G-88, agency: FCM), Hungary created 21-9 run making solid plus 6 after first ten minutes. Sebastian Koch (202-F-88) and Lorenzo O'Neal (188-G-88) stepped up for Austria in the next period which resulted with 38-38 with 00:59 to go in the first half. At the last Austria's possession Maximilian Graf (191-F-88) netted 3-pointer securing advantage for his team. Crucial period of the game was finish of third quarter when Austrians made 7-0 run taking 9 points lead. After that moment Hungarians were able just once to touch minus 8 but they couldn't come any closer than that.

Lorenzo O'Neal led his team to victory scoring 21 points. Sebastian Koch followed with 16 points and 9 rebounds while Maximilian Graf stopped on 15 points. It is important to be mentioned that Alexander Heuberger (202-F/C-89) also shined for the winning side collecting 14 points and 8 rebounds. Hungary got 21 points from Zoltan Supola while Peter Hajmasy (194-F-88) had 18 points and 4 assists. Milan Csorvasi was behind these two players finishing the game with 11 points and 10 boards.


U20 Hungary - U20 Austria 72-85
(25-19, 13-22, 19-25, 15-19)

Hungary: Zoltan Supola 21, Peter Hajmasy 18 (4 as), Milan Csorvasi 11 (10 rebs)
Austria: Lorenzo O'Neal 21, Sebastian Koch 16 (9 rebs), Maximilian Graf 15, Alexander Heuberger 14 (8 rebs)

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  BELGIUM   


U20 EC, division B: Belgium remains undefeated after Netherlands - by Eurobasket News
U20 Netherlands - U20 Belgium 72-84

As it was expected, Belgium celebrated in the last game of Qualifying Round against Netherlands grabbing the top position in Group F. In the semifinals of U20 European Championship division B Belgium will take on the second ranked team from Group E, Sweden. On the other side Netherlands didn't succeed to reach the semis so it will continue participation in Targu Mures fighting for position number five. Netherlands' next rival will be Portugal.

As usually, Belgium dominated in the paint once again. Its players grabbed 35 rebounds matched with 28 by Netherlands. At the same time Belgium forced its opponent to commit 21 turnovers. After 13-13 at the middle of the first stanza, Portugal created 8-21 run taking 13 points lead at the end of it. Just few minutes later, actually in 14th minute after triple by Thomas Dreesen (200-F-88, agency: Court Side), Belgium set the score on 29-46. Netherlands was not on such a good level in this game as Roeland Schaftenaar (213-F/C-88) and his teammates didn't succeed even to threat until the end. At the one point in third quarter Belgium touched plus 21.

This time Belgium got the most from Thomas Dreesen, who collected 19 points and 4 rebounds. Olivier Troisfontaines (193-G/F-89) also shined for the winners adding 18 points and 5 boards. The best player of Belgium so far Munda Hockins (188-G-88) stopped on 16 points missing around 2/3 of his shots in this game. Roeland Schaftenaar scored 15 points including 4 assists for the loosing side. Ewoud Kloos (185-G/F-89) was behind him with 12 points and 4 rebounds.


U20 Netherlands - U20 Belgium 72-84
(21-34, 17-21, 11-15, 23-14)

Netherlands: Roeland Schaftenaar 15 (4 rebs), Ewoud Kloos 12 (4 rebs)
Belgium: Thomas Dreesen 19 (4 rebs), Olivier Troisfontaines 18 (5 rebs), Munda Hockins 16

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  BOSNIA   


Latest transfers of bosnian players - by Nedzad Kladusak

During this week many bosnian players have signed with european teams.
Marko Scekic (207-F-81, agency: Agency No 10), a very talented PF left Turow and signed with EWE baskets Oldenburg.

Elvir Ovcina (212-F/C-76, agency: Beo Basket, college: Syracuse) is free-agent and has several interesting offers.
Josip Sesar (197-G/F-78, agency: Court Side), who has been drafted on the 47spot has signed with the bosnian team Zrinjski Mostar and will play under coach Rudolf Jugo who will succeed Nedeljko Nadeljko Zelenika .
Nadeljko Zelenika has been 'rewarded' by the management while he has been coaching the U-18 NT of BIH!
Sabahudin Hodzic (217-C-84, college: Casper CC) signed a two-year contract with Slavija Sarajevo. Sabahudin Hodzic is a lefthanded center with tremendeous potential.
Goran Sehovac the former coach of Slavija Sarajevo hired with KK Bosna where he will assist Alen Abaz.
Sloboda Dita is still waiting for the decisions of Dimitrije Matic and Milan Milan Milosevic (205-F-85). Matic is very close to sign with serbian KK Vojvodina.
Sloboda pointed out that it is not more interested in the services of Dimitirje Matic after not declaring on time whether he will stay or not.
Borac declared that Boris Rotbart is close to extend his contract and stay in Bosnia.
KK Igokea signed Bryan Lucas (204-F/C-78, college: N.Texas),Alton Mason (185-G-77, agency: Court Side, college: Arizona St.) and Ernest Williams.



BIH defeated Hungary 89-76 - by Nedzad Kladusak
BIH won its first preparation match. In front of 1500 spectators BIH started with Nesovic, Ikonic,Opacak,Bajramovic and Jazvin. The bosnian players have been still tired of their workout camp in Slovenia andhad some problems on the defensive end. Particularly Peter Lorant took advantage of the
confusion in bosnian rows combining for 27 points at the end of the match.
In the second half Bosnia-Hercegovina played much more agressive and particularly the big men did a good job and initated some fast breaks which resulted in a 16 points lead.
At that point it has been clear that Hungary won t recover. Tomorrow BIH will play its second match against the same opponent.

BiH 89:76 HUN (22:19, 20:25, 21:13, 26:19)

BIH: Hukic, Teletovic13,Gordic 17, Pajevic, Nesovic 11, Jazvin 10, Kikanovic 7, Ikonic 3, Bavcic 5, Milosevic 7, Bajramovic 7,Opacak 9. Coach: Mensur Bajramovic.

HUN: Nemet 13, Sitku 4, B. Simon 9, L. Simon, Fodor 4, Molnar, Kaman 5, Trepak 5, Ferenc,Lorant 27 , Hendlein 2, Horvat 7. Coach: Lajos Mesaros.

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  BRITISH VIRGIN ISLANDS   


Jnr. National basketball squad steps up preparation for CBC tourney - by David Edole
Under the watchful eyes of former national player, Paul Ice Jones, the Virgin Islands Jnr. National basketball squad entered their final three weeks of practice sessions ahead of the Caribbean Basketball Confederation (CBC) tournament which has been shifted from the Dominica Republic to Antigua , and will start on August 17.

The tournament will feature players 16 years and under.

To come back home is excellent, I have been thinking about it for a while, I have been coming over and seeing how Bash (Brian Brewley) working and I know it hard. When you working to support your family and still trying to take care of everybody family, it hard. But, Bash makes the sacrifice and I make the sacrifice, Jones stated following a two-hour session on the basketball court in Lower Estate.

Jones who is now based in St. Croix has been working with several of the islands junior players and said he was honoured to return to help develop the sport.

Its real wonderful to see the inspiration in these players, we have a little improvement to work on, especially the short jump shot, but the guys are very determined and with that anything can happen, Jones added.

Jones was assisted by senior players, Kennedy Bass and Jason Edwin among others as the team went through their workout that included left and right hand rotation lay-ups, defensive sets against a shooting team, and full court presses.

When we go over there we will not be teaching and looking to correct. A number of the senior players have come out to support the team and to ensure that we put in a good performance. We have had Bass, Edwin and sometimes Steve Parillon come out and assist with getting the team prepared, said head coach, Brian Bash Brewley.

We had selected 15 players and right now we are down to 13 players, basically, we are still in between minds and we have not finalised the team, Brewley stated.

He added that the team definitely needs to work on the free-throws and cutting down on turnovers. We had three scrimmage games against the St. Thomas National team, but they really beat us because of turnovers, Brewley further stated.

He said that the last time the VI Jr. National team won a regional tournament was in 1999 and the VI last fielded a junior squad to a tournament in 2001.

Meanwhile, Jones appealed to parents and other adults in the community to support youth in sport by getting involved.

Being in St. Croix and working with 7-9, 10-12 and 13-15 and what was my inspiration, is to see how the youth them dying so young. We dont live in a bubble. If we go to the mall is the same youths, you go to the school is the same youths. Everybody fearful of the youth, but somebody has to go out. The youth them aint see no adult involvement so them get angry, Jones stated.
Written by Gordon French


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  BULGARIA   


Greece earn first win at Classification Round - by Eurobasket News
Greece U20 - Bulgaria U20 98:57

Greek U20 National Team scored a cruising win over Bulgaria in the Classification round action today. Mihalis Giannakidis (193-G-88, agency: FCM) scored 16 points and Greece tied Bulgaria in the Classification round table. The teams have 1-1 record and would fight for Division A spots in the final round. Bulgaria looked better at the start of the game as they jumped to an 11:3 lead. Greek team answered with an 11:0 run to claim the lead midway through the frame but Pavel Marinov (196-G-88) and Kiril Istilyanov (176-G-89) secured a 25:24 advantage for Bulgaria after the starting frame. Greece used a 14:2 run in the second period to surge ahead and enjoy a 49:37 advantage at halftime. Calathes opened the third frame with two freebies and Greek side stretched the margin to 14 points. Bulgaria failed to stop Greek onslaught as the Hellenes extended the margin to 20+ points. Greece headed into the final period in front 75:46 and was not about to give the lead up. They opened the frame with a 6:0 run and never looked back en route to the key win in the hunt for Division A ticket for the next year. Christos Lymperopoulos (190-G-88) scored 13 points for Greece. Georgios Bogris (209-C/F-89) and Michail Tsairelis (206-F/C-88) added 12 points apiece for the winners. Pavel Ivanov (200-F-88) answered with 14 points for Bulgaria. Pavel Marinov added 12 points in a losing effort. Greece outrebounded their opponents 38:24 and forced Bulgaria to 24 turnovers. Greece will take on Georgia, while Bulgaria will face Slovenia in the final round of action in the Classification round.

Greece U20: Mihalis Giannakidis 16, Christos Lymperopoulos 13, Georgios Bogris 12, Michail Tsairelis 12
Bulgaria U20: Pavel Ivanov 14, Pavel Marinov 12

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  CHILE   


Dimayor: Wins for Universidad de Concepcion and Deportes Ancud - by Daniel Valencia
CD Universidad de Concepcion defeated Universidad Catolica 73-69 in a anticipated game from round 8. The shooting guard Evandro Arteaga was the offensive leader with 25 points. In Puerto Montt, Deportes Ancud defeated Universidad de Los Lagos 70-68 ina pending game from round 4. Leonardo Alves netted 19 points for the winners.

Universidad Catolica 69 - CD Universidad de Concepcion 73
Uc: Felipe Contreras 17 pts. Walter Storani 17 pts. Juan Pablo Montas 15 pts.
Ucon: Evandro Arteaga 25 pts. Nakiea Miller 24 pts. Marcelo Hernandez 8 pts.

Universidad de los Lagos 68 - Deportes Ancud 70
Ula: Dean Browne 28 pts. Tim Jennings 13 pts. Leonel Mendez 13 pts.
Anc: Leonardo Alves 19 pts. Malcolm Connor17 pts. Marcos Hubner 14 pts.

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  CHINA   


Yao excited about Artest's trade to Houston, apologizes for comments - by Eurobasket News
Ming Yao (226-C-80) has quickly squashed any potential rift that could have developed with new teammate Ron Artest (201-G-79, college: St.John's) prior to the volatile forward's arrival in Houston.

Earlier this week, it was widely reported that Artest would be coming to the Rockets from Sacramento for a 2009 first-round pick, guard Bobby Jackson and another player -- likely rookie forward Donte Greene. However, the trade can't officially be announced yet: Greene signed a contract with Houston on July 14, and, according to NBA rules, a player can't be traded within 30 days of signing a deal.

According to the Houston Chronicle, Yao was generally excited about the move, but had some reservations as to whether Artest would be a good fit with his new club, saying, 'We worry about the new attitude to the team. We are adding talent to the team and we need that, but building team chemistry is important.'

But the two stars spoke this week on the phone -- Yao is in China preparing for the Olympics -- and the All-Star center told Houston TV station Fox 26 on Friday that he looks forward to having Artest as a teammate.

'I talked to him last night China time about [a] misunderstanding on the report,' Yao said Friday during his interview with Fox 26. 'It's better when we have a chance to sit down and talk face to face.

'Before training camp, before the season, we have a lot of time. I think we can be good friends.'

That seemed unlikely after a report in the Chronicle quoted Yao as saying, 'Hopefully, he's not fighting anymore and going after a guy in the stands.'

Yao, of course, was referencing the infamous 2004 brawl in Detroit when, as a member of the Indiana Pacers, Artest left the court to attack a fan. He was suspended for the rest of that season which amounted to 73 games, a punishment that's the most notable in a long list of negative publicity he's received via suspensions and off-the-court issues.

Apparently his recent talk with Artest has put Yao more at ease with the controversial acquisition.

'If something I said would make Ron feel uncomfortable, I apologize,' Yao said. 'I'm really sorry about that, because I still don't know him very well. Still, by the time we stay together, obviously I will fix it.'

Yao is generally not a player to make critical comments and avoids controversy, so the development with Artest made headlines in Houston and even in his native China. However, it seems the 7-foot-6 superstar is more comfortable with Artest after their conversation and is confident he will give the Rockets a better chance to win a championship.

'Right now the Rockets made a good trade for us and we got a good player,' Yao said.

Artest, a nine-year veteran, averaged 20.5 points last season and added 2.3 steals per game to rank among the league's top 10 in that category for the fifth time. He's considered one of the top defenders in the NBA, having been the Defensive Player of the Year for the 2003-04 season.

The Rockets already are one of the NBA's top teams defensively with Yao clogging the middle. They have finished among the league's top five in scoring defense in five consecutive seasons, but have not advanced past the first round of the playoffs since Yao joined them in 2002.

Both Yao and Artest are coming off major injuries, but Yao will be playing for China in Beijing after having surgery to repair a stress fracture in his left foot in March and Artest should be ready to go after having his left thumb operated on in April.

'Ron joining us as a teammate,' Yao said, 'I think that can put (our) team in the next level.'

Courtesy of www.espn .com
(By The Associated Press)

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  CROATIA   


Grant and Brun in Split! - by Dani Erceg

KK Split inked Antonio Grant (196-F-77, college: S.Carolina) and Stephen Brun (202-F-80). Grant came from Lithuanian Siauliai where he averaged 16.1ppg, 5.1rpg and 1.6apg in ULEB Cup. Brun came from Gravelines where he averaged 10.6ppg, 4.8rpg and 1.8apg in Pro-A.





Turkey enter semifinal stage in Latvia - by Eurobasket News
Turkey U20 - Croatia U20 63:60

Turkish U20 National team was the first squad to enter semifinal stage at the European Championship in Latvia yesterday. They held off Croatian team in a dramatic clash to improve to 4-1 record in the ladder of Group E. Baris Hersek (204-F/C-88) came up with 19 points and 13 boards for Turkey. Croatia opened the game with a 6:0 rally and maintained the lead throughout the opening stanza. However trebles from Ogun Sevinc (198-F/G-88, agency: 1x1 Sports) and Gen early in the second period and Turkey jumped in front. The teams kept it close in the stanza and were all square at 25 at halftime. The lead changed hands for several times early in the third stanza before Baris Hersek, Ogun Sevinc and Azizcan Ozdemir (201-F-88) put Turkey in charge 51:40 late in the frame. Turkish team tipped off the fourth quarter with an 11:4 run to clear off to a 17-point distance. However Croatia refused to surrender. Filip Kruslin (198-G-89) nailed 14 points in just over 3 minutes to carry Croatia within 2 points with 11 seconds remaining. Ogun Sevinc answered with a freebie, while Petani missed a potential tying basket and Turkey got away with the win. Ogun Sevinc finished with 13 points for Turkey. Azizcan Ozdemir added 12 points and 6 boards for the winners. Filip Kruslin nailed 16 points for Croatia. Marino Sarlija (204-F/C-89) had 13 points in defeat.

Turkey U20: Baris Hersek 19+13 boards, Ogun Sevinc 13, Azizcan Ozdemir 12
Croatia U20: Filip Kruslin 16, Marino Sarlija 13

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  CZECH REPUBLIC   


U20 EC, division B: Czechs outplay Great Britain despite Bryan-Amaning's 41 points - by Eurobasket News
U20 Czech Republic - U20 Great Britain 104-93

Czech Republic was better than Great Britain recording the second victory in Classification Round from 9th to 16th place on U20 European Championship division B. Thus Czechs ended competition in Group G on top position with score 3-0 continuing battle for position number nine. On the other side Great Britain is a third ranked team in the same group which will take a part in classification games for 13th place.

Surprisingly but Great Britain had 10 rebounds more than the Czechs today. The British finished it having 18 + 25 while the official host on this game grabbed 15 + 18. It was a game with extremely big number of points. Tomas Macela (179-G-88) at the one and Matthew Bryan-Amaning (206-F-88) at the other side competed who will score the most points today. At the end 'that' award belonged to Matthew Bryan-Amaning. Crucial period of the game was second quarter, which Czech Republic closed 29-16. During the next ten minuets Great Britain made turn 64-65 but before the last frame Czechs created 11-2 run keeping their lead without any problems until the end.

Tomas Macela paced Czech Republic to victory netting 34 points and dishing out 5 assists. Petr Dokoupil (191-G-88) also had wonderful day collecting 28 points and 4 assists while Lukas Palyza (201-F-89) contributed with 12 points and 7 boards. Matthew Bryan-Amaning of Great Britain impressed everyone today. He spent 35 minutes on court draining 41 points and grabbing 11 rebounds. Interesting is that he didn't have any attempt from behind the arc in this game. Ashley Hamilton (201-F-88) was a far away behind Matthew Bryan-Amaning collecting 18 points and 5 rebounds.


U20 Czech Republic - U20 Great Britain 104-93
(28-25, 29-16, 18-26, 29-26)

Czech Republic: Tomas Macela 34 (5 as), Petr Dokoupil 28 (4 as), Lukas Palyza 12 (7 rebs)
Great Britain: Matthew Bryan-Amaning 41 (11 rebs), Ashley Hamilton 18 (5 rebs)

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  ESTONIA   


U20 EC, division B: Estonia outsmarts Romania after two over times - by Eurobasket News
U20 Romania - U20 Estonia 86-89

Estonia celebrated a victory in the most interesting game on U20 European Championship division B so far. At the same time it was an extremely important game for both teams. The hosts of this event Romania had some chances for the semis but all their hopes dissapeared in the second over time. On the other hand Estonians gave their maximum securing the spot in the semifinals. They won't have an easy job at this stage of the competition as they will face with strong Germany. Romania, which suffered three consecutive defeats, will continue its way in Targu Mures battling for the fifth place.

Estonia had fantastic beginning. Mostly owing to Tanel Kurbas (195-F-88) and Timo Eichfuss (199-F-88) it was 0-11 after three minutes. Later Romania succeeded to recover tying the score on 24-24 but Estonians made 12-3 run grabbing 9 points lead at the half time. Romania was much better team during the next 20 minutes. Titus Nicoara (201-F-88, agency: Interperformances) and Vlad Moldoveanu (210-C-88) were on fire entering into the last minute and a half with 60-58. Romanians had a chance to take this one but Tanel Kurbas drained a jump shot at the very end leading his team to over time. With 00:49 to go in first OT Romania had 74-69 and was very close to victory but Estonia made quick 5-0 run heading into the next five minutes. Romania couldn't forger the previous over time and 5 points lead which Estonians exploited finishing the game 86-89.

Tanel Kurbas paced Estonians to this extremely important victory draining 31 points. Ivar Tulit (202-F-88) needed one more rebound for double-double as he added 15 points and 9 boards. Timo Eichfuss and Margus Klementsov (169-G-89) also help their team a lot scoring 14 points each. Titus Nicoara had wonderful performance for the hosts recording 26 points and 23 rebounds. Daniel Popescu (183-G-88) followed him with 20 points and 7 rebounds while Vlad Moldoveanu had 18 points and 13 rebounds. Romanias next rival in Targu Mures will be F.Y.R. of Macedonia.


U20 Romania - U20 Estonia 86-89
(16-20, 11-16, 21-16, 13-9, 13-13, 12-15)

Romania: Titus Nicoara 26 (23 rebs), Daniel Popescu 20 (7 rebs), Vlad Moldoveanu 18 (13 rebs)
Estonia: Tanel Kurbas 31, Ivar Tulit 15 (9 rebs), Timo Eichfuss 14 (9 rebs), Margus Klementsov 14 (5 rebs)

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  EUROBASKET SUMMER LEAGUE   


Standings
Eurobasket Standings
Chicago
1. London 3-0
2. Warsaw 2-1
3. Berlin 2-1
4. Madrid 2-1
5. Rome 1-2
6. Amsterdam 1-2
7. Athens 1-2
8. Paris 0-3
Las Vegas
1. Monaco 2-0
2. Brussels 1-1
3. Venice 1-1
4. Geneva 0-2
New York
1. Budapest 3-0
2. Stockholm 2-1
3. Moscow 2-1
4. Prague 2-1
5. Kiev 1-2
6. Istanbul 1-2
7. Helsinki 1-2
8. Riga 0-3
Salt Lake City
1. Sevilla 3-0
2. Munich 2-1
3. Rotterdam 2-1
4. Naples 2-1
5. Frankfurt 1-2
6. Barcelona 1-2
7. Sofia 1-2
8. Belgrade 0-3


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  EUROPEAN CHAMPIONSHIPS U20   


Division B. Stats leaders after Qualifying Round - by Eurobasket News
Terrence Oglesby (188-G-88) is currently the top scorer of U20 European Championship division B in Targu Mures. His team Norway is the second ranked team in Group G thus it will continue battle for the position nine. Oglesby scored 152 points so far which is 25.3 ppg in 6 games. His competition-high was 32 points at the opening day against Finland.
The second on the list of top scorers after Qualifying Round is Estonian Tanel Kurbas (195-F-88), which helped his team yesterday to reach the semifinals. Kurbas also played 6 games averaging 22.5 ppg. He demonstrated the best performance in the second game of Preliminary Round netting 32 points against Austria. In the most important game for his team so far, which was against the hosts Romania yesterday, Kurbas scored 31 points.
Third place belongs to Antti Kanervo (193-G/F-89) from Finland, which has 21 ppg in five games.

The top rebounder at this moment is Romanian Titus Nicoara (201-F-88, agency: Interperformances) with 15 rpg. Roeland Schaftenaar (213-F/C-88) is on the second place with 10.8 rpg while another Romanian, this time Vlad Moldoveanu (210-C-88), is third on this list grabbing 10.6 rpg.

Aleksandar Kostoski (188-G-88, agency: Octagon) of F.Y.R. Macedonia dished out the most assists so far 6.4 apg. Estonian Sten Sokk (181-G-89) is the second with 6.2 apg while third place is reserved for Christian Koutras (189-G-88) of Sweden.

The best 'stealer' after 6 games is Jeffery Taylor (196-G-89) from Sweden, who registered 3.3 spg. Second is Titus Nicoara with 2.8 while Miroslav Petkovic (183-G-88) of Switzerland has the same digits.

M-Standings - Division B
Standings Div.B
Group E
1. Germany 3-0
2. Sweden 1-2
3. FYR Ma. 1-2
4. Portugal 1-2
Group F
1. Belgium 3-0
2. Estonia 2-1
3. Holland 1-2
4. Romania 0-3
Group G
1. Czech R. 3-0
2. Norway 2-1
3. U.Kingd 1-2
4. Ireland 0-3
Group H
1. Austria 2-1
2. Hungary 2-1
3. Slovakia 1-2
4. Poland 1-2
Group I
1. Finland 1-0
2. Switzerl. 0-0
3. Azerbaij. 0-1


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  FINLAND   


KORISLIIGA: Khayri Battle to Europe and Finland - by Rauno Hurmalainen
KTP (Kotka) has now three Americans + seven Finnish players on the roster. The newest signee is American Khayri Battle (195-F/G-81, college: William Paterson College, NCAA3), who will arrive to Kotka at the end of August. 'I'm very anxious to come and play in Finland. If I play well enough, I can play
in the future in tougher leagues in Europe'. Battle has international playing experience earlier from Holland, Chile and Argentina.

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  FRANCE   


Entente Orleans 45 sign Cedrick Banks - by Eurobasket
Entente Orleans 45 agreed terms with 27-year old American guard Cedrick Banks (190-G-81, college: Ill.-Chicago, agency: N.E.T.). Banks played most recently at Maccabi Rishon Le-Zion (Israel), where last year in 27 games he averaged 14.0ppg, 3.1rpg and 2.0apg. It will be actually his come back to France where he already spent two seasons just after his graduation. He played first at Besancon (ProB) in 05-06 and the following year at Sluc Nancy (ProA). He played also at French ProA All-Star Game in 2007.

France pip Montenegro in Riga - by Eurobasket News
France U20 - Montenegro U20 66:62

French U20 National Team snapped their two-game losing streak at the European Championship yesterday. They toppled Montenegro however it never helped the team to reach the semifinal stage at the event. Ludovic Vaty (206-F-88, college: Moraine Valley CC) tallied 13 points, 9 boards and 3 assists to pace France to the win. Vladimir Dasic (209-F-88, agency: Beo Basket) answered with 22 points for Montenegro as the Balkan side suffered the second straight loss. Montenegro also failed to make it to the Final Four. France and Montenegro will now play in the semifinal stage for the 5th-8th spots in Riga. France led throughout the opening stanza and built an 18:7 advantage at the first break. Edwin Jackson (191-G-89) and Abdoulaye MBaye (189-G-88) kept France ahead early in the second frame. Montenegro capped the first half with 4 freebies in a row from Vladimir Dasic and Durisic and cut the gap to 5 points at the interval. Back-to-back trebles from Sead Sehovic (201-G/F-89) and Vladimir Dasic allowed Montenegro to come as close as a single point from France at the start of the third stanza. Nemanja Vranjes (188-G/F-88), Bjelica and Vladimir Dasic put Montenegrin team in charge 42:38 with three quarters gone in the contest. Vladimir Dasic and Sead Sehovic stretched the margin to 6 points but France refused to fold. They went on a 16:0 run to pile up a decisive 10-point lead with under 4 minutes remaining in regulation. Montenegro clipped the distance to 3 points but it was as close as they could get before France sealed the victory. Abdoulaye MBaye and Adrien Moerman (204-F/C-88) knocked down 11 points for France. Antoine Diot (191-G-89) had 10 points in a losing effort. Nemanja Vranjes scored 14 points for Montenegro.

France U20: Ludovic Vaty 13, Abdoulaye MBaye 11, Adrien Moerman 11
Montenegro U20: Vladimir Dasic 22, Nemanja Vranjes 14

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  FYR MACEDONIA   


U20 EC, division B: Macedonians beat Sweden but not enough for the semifinals - by Eurobasket News
U20 Sweden - U20 F.Y.R. of Macedonia 67-75

F.Y.R. of Macedonia succeeded to beat Sweden in the last game of Qualifying Round but it wasn't difference which Macedonians needed at the end. Thus second place in Group E belongs to Sweden, which advanced to the semifinals where it will meet strong Belgium. Macedonia will continue participation at the U20 European Championship division B in Targu Mures fighting for the fifth position.

Few opening minutes belonged to Macedonians. They grabbed quick 0-5 lead against at that time sleepy Sweden. Very soon Christian Koutras (189-G-88) and Jeffery Taylor (200-G/F-89) made 13-9 for their team. Ivica Dimcevski (192-G-89) and Vladimir Brckov (194-G-89) shined for Macedonia at the beginning of the second stanza creating 9-2 run for first double-digit lead, 20-30. Mario Drazic (202-F-89) and his team immediately answered tying the score on 30-30 in juts three minutes. Despite Macedonians had 4 points lead at the half time, Sweden was totally equal rival to them in third frame. The game is decided during the following few minutes when Macedonia through Kiril Nikolovski (210-C-88, agency: Interperformances) and Marjan Janeski (203-F-88) made 11-2 run setting the score on 51-62 with 7:06 to go. Two minutes later Macedonia touched plus 15 but fortunately to Sweden, its players succeeded to come on 67-75 at the end what was enough for the semifinals.

Vladimir Brckov was the key player for F.Y.R. of Macedonia today netting 17 points and grabbing 5 rebounds. Jovan Markovski (198-F-88) followed him scoring 16 points with 4 assists while Kiril Nikolovski collected 13 points and 11 rebounds. Jeffery Taylor was the best scorer for the loosing side adding 21 points. At the same time Jeffery Taylor had 7 more rebounds and 5 assists. Mario Drazic helped his team with 14 points and 9 boards.


U20 Sweden - U20 F.Y.R. of Macedonia 67-75
(18-21, 16-17, 15-13, 18-24)

Sweden: Jeffery Taylor 21 (7 rebs, 5 as), Mario Drazic 14 (9 rebs)
F.Y.R. Macedonia: Vladimir Brckov 17 (5 rebs), Jovan Markovski 16 (4 as), Kiril Nikolovski 13 (11 rebs)

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  GEORGIA   


Zoran Dragic leads Sloevnia past Georgia in Riga - by Eurobasket News
Slovenia U20 - Georgia U20 91:82 (OT)

Slovenian U20 National Team made a huge step towards securing their spot in Division A of the European Championship for the next year. They earned their second straight win at the Classification round of the European Championship in Latvia to remain on top of Group G. Slovenia outsmarted Georgia today sending their opponents to 0-2 record on the cusp of being relegated to Division B. The game turned into a dramatic battle with both sides throwing all they had for the win. Slovenia were a bit better in the opening term as Mirko Mulalic (195-F-88) gave them a 21:17 lead ten minutes into the encounter. The teams kept it close throughout the second frame before Zoran Dragic (195-G-89) scored 8 points late in the period and allowed Slovenia to enjoy a 44:35 advantage at sides change. Slovenia maintained the gap in the third period and entered the fourth stanza ahead by 8. The margin grew to 11 points midway through the final term and Slovenia seemed well in control. But Levan Shengelia (205-F/C-90) and Matiashvili fueled a desperate comeback effort from Georgia and they surged in front 76:75 with 56 seconds left in regulation. Gaprindashvili gave Georgia a 77:75 lead with 12 seconds left but Slovenia survived. Jakob Virk (201-F/C-89) was fouled and drained both freebies to force extra time. Mirko Mulalic opened the overtime with 5 straight points and Slovenia never looked back en route to a dramatic victory. Zoran Dragic paced Slovenia with 30 points, 8 boards, 6 assists and 4 steals. Mirko Mulalic had 22 points, while Dejan Cigoja (204-F/C-88, agency: Interperformances) added 12 for the winners. Levan Shengelia responded with 25 points and 9 rebounds for Georgia. Beka Tsivtsivadze (189-G-89) secured 15 points in defeat.

Slovenia U20: Zoran Dragic 30, Mirko Mulalic 22, Dejan Cigoja 12
Georgia U20: Levan Shengelia 25, Beka Tsivtsivadze 15

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  GERMANY   


U20 EC, division B: Germany advances to the semis - by Eurobasket News
U20 Germany - U20 Portugal 71-62

Germany ended the Qualifying Round on U20 European Championship division B undefeated. As a reminder the Germans already beat all their rivals at the Preliminary Round finishing it with perfect score 4-0. It means that Germany advanced to the semifinals from top of Group F while Portugal will have to wait until the end of the game between Sweden and F.Y.R. of Macedonia to see on what stage it will continue participation in Targu Mures.

Germany was a better team from the early beginning. After jump shot by Robin Benzing (208-F-89, college: Michigan) the Germans grabbed 15-8. Later Tom-Gerhard Spoler (206-F-88) took care to stretch Germans lead to 11 points. Until the half time they reached advantage of 15 points but thanks to Jose Silva (194-F-89) Portugal went to it with minus 12. Nothing has changed in third quarter as Germany still was the team which dominated. Oskar Fassler (198-G-88) netted 5 points in the row at the end of this period setting the score on 57-43. Until the very end Jose Silva and his teammates were able to come on minus 7 but it was their maximum today.

This time Germany got the most from Tom-Gerhard Spoler, who scored 14 points. Elias Harris (200-F-89) was behind him adding 12 points and 4 rebounds. Tibor Pleiss (214-F/C-89) as well as Philipp Schwethelm (201-F-89, agency: Court Side) had a chance to take a rest not playing the entire game today as Germany already booked a spot for the semifinals on Wednesday. Jose Silva once again shined in Portugal scoring 23 points. He played 36 minutes having solid 4 of 5 for FG2, 4 of 7 for 3-pts and 3 of 4 from the free throw line. The loosing side also got 11 points and 11 boards from Fernando Sico (202-F/C-88).


U20 Germany - U20 Portugal 71-62
(19-12, 18-13, 20-18, 14-19)

Germany: Tom-Gerhard Spoler 14, Elias Harris 12 (4 rebs)
Portugal: Jose Silva 23, Fernando Sico 11 (11 rebs)

Bonn signs Tim Clifford - by Manuel Schust
Telekom Baskets Bonn signed 22-year old Tim Clifford (211-C-86) for the upcoming season. Clifford, who spent the last four years with Holy Cross College (NCAA), will replace Bernd Kruel (210-C/F-76) and support John Bowler (206-F-84, agency: LimeLight, college: E.Michigan) in Bonn's frontcourt.
Last season he averaged 18.0 points and 5.4 rebounds and impressed with decent shooting percentages: FGP: 57.1%, FT: 78.2%, 3PT: 33.3%.
After Pre-Draft workouts for the Seattle Sonics and the Boston Cetlics, Clifford is ready for his first overseas experience.

Meanwhile Bonn is still looking for a new Power Forward to join the team.
The following players are alreasy part of next season's squad: Winsome Frazier (193-G/F-82, agency: Interperformances, college: Mississippi St.), Johannes Strasser (190-G-82, agency: Court Side), Patrick Flomo (203-F-80, college: Ohio), Moussa Diagne (203-F/C-84, agency: Pro One Sports, college: Furman) John Bowler , Tim Clifford, Vincent Yarbrough (201-F-81, college: Tennessee), Artur Kolodziejski (195-F/G-79), E.J. Rowland (188-G-80, college: St.Mary's, CA), Alex King (200-F/G-85), Fabian Thulig (196-F-89) and Matthias von Heydebrand (194-G-88).

ProA: New signings - by Manuel Schust
ProA team (2. Bundesliga) LTi Lich announced the re-signing of team captain Rolf Scholz (187-G-80). The 27-year old Guard will play his 7th season with the team from northern Hesse. Last season he averaged 3.7 points and 1.9 rebounds in 29 games with Lich.

New ProA club and german football powerhouse FC Bayern Muenchen signed two new import players. Point Guard Gabriel Moore (185-G-85) spent last season with Indiana State and produced 12.2 points and 4.5 assists per game. He will be Bayern's new playmaker. Shooting Guard Tim Morris (193-G-84, college: Washington) impressed Bayern's management during Eurobasket Summer League in Salt Lake City. Morris played with Team Munich and ironically now joins Bayern Muenchen. The 24-year old spent last season with Washington (NCAA) and produced 7.2 points and 3.6 rebounds.

ProB news: Transactions - by Manuel Schust
German forward Dominik Schneider (203-F-85), who recently signed a contract with Brose Baskets Bamberg, will also be eligible to play with Franken Hexer. The 22-year old spent last season with Nueremberg in ProA and produced 6.6 points and 5.6 rebounds.

TG Renesas Landshut re-signed 22-year old wingman Alexej Bondar (199-G-86). The russian-german player joined Landshut in January 2008 and produced 6.2 points per game in Regionalliga South.
Landshut also announced the signing of swiss center Niels Matter (200-F/C-87). After two years with Birstal Starwings Basel, he will play his first season outside of Switzerland.

Telemotive Muenchen, formely known as Muenchen Baskets, signed two new players from the local rivals Bayern Muenchen: Johannes Gotzler (195-G/F-86) and Claus Weiss (192-G-85). Also former U20 national player Matthias Krieg (206-C-80, college: Abil.Christian), who spent last year with MTV Stuttgart in Regionalliga, signed with the ProB club.

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  GREECE   


Greece earn first win at Classification Round - by Eurobasket News
Greece U20 - Bulgaria U20 98:57

Greek U20 National Team scored a cruising win over Bulgaria in the Classification round action today. Mihalis Giannakidis (193-G-88, agency: FCM) scored 16 points and Greece tied Bulgaria in the Classification round table. The teams have 1-1 record and would fight for Division A spots in the final round. Bulgaria looked better at the start of the game as they jumped to an 11:3 lead. Greek team answered with an 11:0 run to claim the lead midway through the frame but Pavel Marinov (196-G-88) and Kiril Istilyanov (176-G-89) secured a 25:24 advantage for Bulgaria after the starting frame. Greece used a 14:2 run in the second period to surge ahead and enjoy a 49:37 advantage at halftime. Calathes opened the third frame with two freebies and Greek side stretched the margin to 14 points. Bulgaria failed to stop Greek onslaught as the Hellenes extended the margin to 20+ points. Greece headed into the final period in front 75:46 and was not about to give the lead up. They opened the frame with a 6:0 run and never looked back en route to the key win in the hunt for Division A ticket for the next year. Christos Lymperopoulos (190-G-88) scored 13 points for Greece. Georgios Bogris (209-C/F-89) and Michail Tsairelis (206-F/C-88) added 12 points apiece for the winners. Pavel Ivanov (200-F-88) answered with 14 points for Bulgaria. Pavel Marinov added 12 points in a losing effort. Greece outrebounded their opponents 38:24 and forced Bulgaria to 24 turnovers. Greece will take on Georgia, while Bulgaria will face Slovenia in the final round of action in the Classification round.

Greece U20: Mihalis Giannakidis 16, Christos Lymperopoulos 13, Georgios Bogris 12, Michail Tsairelis 12
Bulgaria U20: Pavel Ivanov 14, Pavel Marinov 12

Pat Calathes' interview with George Manousidis - by Simon Varvakis
Below is an interview of our very own George Manousidis with Pat Calathes (208-G/F-85, agency: Arik Krayn Services) regarding his new team, Maroussi.

-George
Congratulations on your new contract Pat.

-Pat
Thank you!

-George
Coach Markopoulos is one of the best in the league.

-Pat
Yeah thats what I hear. It should be a good first year.

-George
Are you in Greece now?

-Pat
No I'm heading there the 15th.

-George
Do you have any official coments about your new contract?

-Pat
Sure.. I'm really looking forward to playing for Maroussi.

I think I made a great decision and I'm gonna do whatever I can to help my team win.

-George
What did you know about the Greek League?

-Pat
I know its one of the toughest leagues in Europe.

There are alot of very strong teams in it.

-George
Do you know that you'll be playing against Josh Childress?

-Pat
Yeah he's a very good player!

-George
I hope you the best in your first season in Greece. Will be in touch.

-Pat
Thank you! yes sir!

-George
Thank you Pat.

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  HOLLAND   


Rotterdam Challengers lands Daniel 'Chip' Jones - by Fred Roggen
Daniel 'Chip' Jones plays next season for the Rotterdam Challengers, it will be his fifth team in nine years Eredivisie. The 2.00 meter long Dutch forward had no team, after WestBrabant Giants does not longer wanted to use him and did not extend his contract after two-and-a-half year.
Daniel Jones (200-F-79, agency: R.H.Consultancy) averaged 4.1 points and 2.4 rebounds for the WestBrabant Giants in 38 Eredivisie-games in the previous season.

Elson to Milwaukee Bucks - by Fred Roggen
For the first time in history two Dutch players will play for the same NBA team. Last night Francisco Elson (212-C-76, agency: Court Side, college: California) and Milwaukee Bucks reached an agreement on a one-year deal
Sources inside the Bucks say that Elson would give the Bucks a better offensive option than current backup Dan Gadzuric (211-C-78, college: UCLA), also a native of the Netherlands.
Elson was considered earlier this summer by the Denver Nuggets, but the Nuggets instead signed Chris Andersen aas a frontcourt reserve. Elson played in 201 games for Denver from 2003-06.

The 32-year-old Elson has played in 334 NBA games and started 125 over five seasons, averaging 4.1 points and 3.8 rebounds per game.
He was a member of San Antonios championship team during the 2006-07 season, when he started 41 times in 70 appearances. Elson averaged 5.0 points and 4.8 rebounds in 19 minutes per game.
Elson appeared in 20 playoff games that season, starting eight on the front line with Tim Duncan, en route to the title. The Spurs swept the Cleveland Cavaliers in the NBA Finals.
Elson played in 41 games for the Spurs and 22 for the SuperSonics last season, making just five total starts.

Eiffel Towers Den Bosch sign Tristan Blackwood - by Fred Roggen
EiffelTowers Den Bosch has been reinforced this week with the Canadian Tristan Blackwood (183-G-85). The 23-year-old pointguard, who also can play 'on the 2', is provisionally housed at Aris Friesland where he will play the upcoming season.
Eiffel Towers has a partnership with Aris Friesland.
Blackwood played five years for Central Connecticut State College in the NEC Conference. The two-times All Star, came last year to an average of more than sixteen points and more than five assists per game. Blackwood signed for three years.
Coach Randy Wiel on the advent of the player: ' Tristan is a fast, agile pointguard with a great shot and a strong drive to the basket '.

U20 EC, division B: Belgium remains undefeated after Netherlands - by Eurobasket News
U20 Netherlands - U20 Belgium 72-84

As it was expected, Belgium celebrated in the last game of Qualifying Round against Netherlands grabbing the top position in Group F. In the semifinals of U20 European Championship division B Belgium will take on the second ranked team from Group E, Sweden. On the other side Netherlands didn't succeed to reach the semis so it will continue participation in Targu Mures fighting for position number five. Netherlands' next rival will be Portugal.

As usually, Belgium dominated in the paint once again. Its players grabbed 35 rebounds matched with 28 by Netherlands. At the same time Belgium forced its opponent to commit 21 turnovers. After 13-13 at the middle of the first stanza, Portugal created 8-21 run taking 13 points lead at the end of it. Just few minutes later, actually in 14th minute after triple by Thomas Dreesen (200-F-88, agency: Court Side), Belgium set the score on 29-46. Netherlands was not on such a good level in this game as Roeland Schaftenaar (213-F/C-88) and his teammates didn't succeed even to threat until the end. At the one point in third quarter Belgium touched plus 21.

This time Belgium got the most from Thomas Dreesen, who collected 19 points and 4 rebounds. Olivier Troisfontaines (193-G/F-89) also shined for the winners adding 18 points and 5 boards. The best player of Belgium so far Munda Hockins (188-G-88) stopped on 16 points missing around 2/3 of his shots in this game. Roeland Schaftenaar scored 15 points including 4 assists for the loosing side. Ewoud Kloos (185-G/F-89) was behind him with 12 points and 4 rebounds.


U20 Netherlands - U20 Belgium 72-84
(21-34, 17-21, 11-15, 23-14)

Netherlands: Roeland Schaftenaar 15 (4 rebs), Ewoud Kloos 12 (4 rebs)
Belgium: Thomas Dreesen 19 (4 rebs), Olivier Troisfontaines 18 (5 rebs), Munda Hockins 16

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  HUNGARY   


U20 EC, division B: Austria edges Hungary - by Eurobasket News
U20 Hungary - U20 Austria 72-85

Austria outplayed Hungary in the last game of Qualifying Round for 9th to 16th place taking the first position in Group H. Hungarians also will have an opportunity to fight for the ninth place as they are the second rankled team in the same group and with the same score. Next rival of Austria in Targu Mures will be Norway while Hungary will take on Czech Republic.

Beginning of the game belonged to Austria. After opening three minutes it was 4-10 for the official visitor in this game. Very soon, thanks to Milan Csorvasi (209-F/C-88, agency: FCM) and Zoltan Supola (193-G-88, agency: FCM), Hungary created 21-9 run making solid plus 6 after first ten minutes. Sebastian Koch (202-F-88) and Lorenzo O'Neal (188-G-88) stepped up for Austria in the next period which resulted with 38-38 with 00:59 to go in the first half. At the last Austria's possession Maximilian Graf (191-F-88) netted 3-pointer securing advantage for his team. Crucial period of the game was finish of third quarter when Austrians made 7-0 run taking 9 points lead. After that moment Hungarians were able just once to touch minus 8 but they couldn't come any closer than that.

Lorenzo O'Neal led his team to victory scoring 21 points. Sebastian Koch followed with 16 points and 9 rebounds while Maximilian Graf stopped on 15 points. It is important to be mentioned that Alexander Heuberger (202-F/C-89) also shined for the winning side collecting 14 points and 8 rebounds. Hungary got 21 points from Zoltan Supola while Peter Hajmasy (194-F-88) had 18 points and 4 assists. Milan Csorvasi was behind these two players finishing the game with 11 points and 10 boards.


U20 Hungary - U20 Austria 72-85
(25-19, 13-22, 19-25, 15-19)

Hungary: Zoltan Supola 21, Peter Hajmasy 18 (4 as), Milan Csorvasi 11 (10 rebs)
Austria: Lorenzo O'Neal 21, Sebastian Koch 16 (9 rebs), Maximilian Graf 15, Alexander Heuberger 14 (8 rebs)

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  IBL   


IBL names 2008 All Stars - by Trask Frost
FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE: August 7, 2008
CONTACT: Mikal Duilio, IBL Commissioner (ph) 866-IBL-GAME
INTERNATIONAL BASKETBALL LEAGUE ANNOUNCES 2008 ALL STARS

Bellingham Slam (finished 19-4) - The Bellingham Slam won the 2008 IBL Championship on July 18th over the two- time champion Elkhart Express. 6 2 Guard Ryan Diggs (right) played in 22 games for the Slam averaging 25.6 points, 6.3 assists and 5.8 rebounds per game. 6 7 Forward Tyler Amaya played in 15 games averaging 21.8 points, 4.4 assists and 9.2 rebounds per game. 6 4 Guard Jacob Stevenson played in 21 games averaging 18.4 points, 3.7 assists and 4.3 rebounds per game. 6 7 Forward Lukas Henne played in 22 games averaging 17.4 points, 2.4 assists and 8.0 rebounds per game.

Elkhart Express (finished 23-2) - the Elkhart Express came into the 2008 title game with 23 wins to only 1 loss. The Express were led by coach Daimon Beathea and 8 players who averaged double figures in scoring. The top scorer was 6 2 Guard Cedric Moodie (right), (also an IBL All Star in 2006 and 2007) known- not only for his numbers, but for his clutch play in big games. Cedric played in 22 games averaging 28.1 points, 3.3 assists and 4.6 rebounds per game. An NBA summer league player for the Chicago Bulls- 7 1 Center Chris Charles gave Elkhart a formidable presence inside averaging 12.0 points and 9.9 rebounds per game. Leadership came from third year player for the Express 6 4 Forward Coleco Buie (also an IBL All Star in 2007) played in 20 games averaging 12.8 points, 2.9 assists & 3.3 rebounds per game. Newcomer 6 10 Forward Jarrod Lovette played in 19 games averaging 12.4 points & 6.2 rebounds per game. Elkharts only 2 losses were to the Gary Steelheads mid season and in the championship game to the Bellingham (Wa) Slam.

Gary Steelheads (finished 18-4) The Steelheads completed the season with 18 wins to only 4 losses. 5 9 Point Guard Royce Parran (right) played in 20 games averaging 17.3 points, 6.3 assists and 3.8 rebounds per game. Parran finished with a triple-double in the 2008 IBL All-Star game en route to MVP honors, and scored 49 points against Holland on June 20th. 5 11 Guard Shaun Fountain played in 16 games, averaging 17.1 points, 5.6 assists and 4.1 rebounds per game. 6 6 Forward Benson Callier played in 20 games averaging 12 points, 2.3 assists and 5.1 rebounds per game. The Steelheads fourth All Star selection was 7 0 Center Kenyon Gamble, who played in 19 games averaging 5.4 points, 1 assist and 7.2 rebounds per game.

Vancouver Volcanoes (finished 18-7) 6 0 Point Guard Kevin Tyner (right) played in 25 games and averaged 20.2 points, 6.1 assists and 4.9 rebounds per game. 6 5 Guard Porter Troupe (also an IBL All Star in 2007) also played in 25 games averaging 22.3 points, 6.1 assists and 5.5 rebounds/game. 6 7 Forward Jake Carlisle played in 24 games averaging 17.2 points, 1.2 assists & 7.1 rebounds per game. Under new owner Bryan Hunter and new head coach Theo Evans, the Volcanoes won more games in 2008 than all of their victories combined from 2005, 2006 and 2007. The Vancouver Volcanoes also won a team award- Best Team for Player Advancement as 7 of their members are going on to play or coach overseas (Kevin Tyner, Porter Troupe, Josh Jackson, Shawn Malloy, Edjuan Green, Alex Hartman and head coach Theo Evans- coaching Division 1 Romania).

Edmonton Chill (finished 13-9) - 6 4 Guard J.R. Patrick (also an IBL All Star in 2006 for the Eugene Chargers) played in 20 games averaging 21.1 points, 2.4 assists and 4.6 rebounds per game. 6 1 Point Guard Rashaun Broadus played in 20 games averaging 20.7 points, 4.5 assists and 5.3 rebounds per game. 6 11 Center Lee Scruggs played in 20 games, averaging 17.6 points, 1.2 assists and 9.7 rebounds per game. Edmonton won 13 games to only 9 losses in 2008 including a 10-game home win streak.

Snohomish Explosion (finished 14-10) - 6 2 Point Guard Jamaal Miller played in 20 games averaging 16.1 points, 5.0 assists and 4.4 rebounds per game. 6 4 Guard Donald Watts (also an IBL All Star in 2006 and 2007) played in 19 games averaging 17.6 points, 3.2 assists and 6.3 rebounds per game. The Explosion had an up and down season on the court but won a team award off of the courtBest Game Day Staff- Game Day Operations; the Explosion will host the IBL west regional tournament again in 2009.

Las Vegas Stars (finished 10-10) - 6 4 Guard Demetrio Butler played in 19 games averaging 24.7 points, 2.0 assists and 6.6 rebounds per game. 6 2 Guard Eddy Shelby (also an IBL All Star in 2007) played in 21 games averaging 23.2 points, 6.3 assists and 7.8 rebounds per game.

Portland Chinooks- Forward 6 9 David Lucas (also an IBL All Star in 2007) led the IBL in scoring averaging 37.0 points along with 1.4 assists and 9.7 rebounds per game. Forward 6 5 Kenny Tate returned to All Star status (Tate was an IBL All Star in 2005 and in 2006) by averaging 18.6 points, 5.2 assists and 8.4 rebounds per game over his 29 games played.

Holland Blast- Point guard 5 8 Dennis Springs (also an IBL All Star in 2006 and 2007) played in 17 games and averaged 26.8 points, 8.2 assists and 4 rebounds per game. Guard 6 3 Jared Bledsoe led Holland to a perfect 7 wins and 0 losses before an injury cut his season short. Bledsoe averaged 29 points per game in his 7 games (Bledsoe was an IBL All Star in 2006 as well).

Battle Creek Knights- 6 5 Guard Bobby Madison (also an IBL All Star in 2005) played 22 games averaging 19.1 points, 2.5 assists and 7.5 rebounds per game- for the fourth year Battle Creek Knights.

L.A. Lightning- 6 7 Forward Lamond Murray (also an IBL All Star in 2007) played in 11 games averaging 26.6 points, 1.2 assists and 11.9 rebounds per game. 6 4 Guard Fred Vinson (also an IBL All Star in 2007) played in 17 games, averaging 16.5 points, 3.0 assists and 3.8 rebounds per game.

Elgin Racers- 6 0 Guard Brandon Watkins (also an IBL All Star in 2005) played in 14 games averaging 23 points, 6.2 assists and 3.1 rebounds per game. 6 8 Forward Keith Gayden (also an IBL All Star in 2007) played in 16 games, averaging 17.5 points, 1 assist and 9.8 rebounds per game.

Jazz of Tacoma- The Jazz of Tacoma improved on their 5 wins from the 2007 season by winning 9 games in the 2008 season. 6 8 Forward Dontay Harris (also an IBL All Star in 2005 & 2007) played in 16 games averaging 18.3 points, 3.1 assists & 9.3 rebounds per game. 6 6 Guard Lorenzo Rollins averaged 15.1 points, 2.9 assists and 5.0 rebounds per game.

Windy City Soldiers- 6 9 Forward Erik Rhinehart could be the newcomer of the year in the IBL, playing in 21 games, averaging 23.5 points, 1.3 assists and 6.7 rebounds per game. 6 7 Forward DeMarcus Bolton played in 18 games scoring 19.8 points, 1.2 assists per game and 7.4 rebounds per game. Windy City won a team award as the most improved team in 2008 (0-18 in 2007 to 11-16 in 2008).

Central Oregon Hotshots - 6 4 Guard Cliff White played in 23 games for the Hotshots averaging 18.0 points, 5.2 assists and 4.7 rebounds per game. White was arguably one of the best defenders in the IBL. Returning Hotshot- 6 4 Forward Terry Horton played in 16 games averaging 23.8 points, 2.6 assists & 10.6 rebounds per game (2nd best in the IBL). For both players, this was their first IBL All Star selection.

Grand Rapids Flight- 6 4 Guard Kenny Langhorne played in 18 games averaging 25.8 points, 3.8 assists and 5.2 rebounds per game. Kenny impressed scouts at the USBA camp in May. 6 7 Forward Terrance Shaw played in 18 games averaging 21.5 points, 1.6 assists and 10.0 rebounds per game.

China Shanxi Zhongyu- Forward Sun Chunlei played in 13 games averaging 21.3 points per game, 2.2 assists and 5.6 rebounds per game. Shanxis only win was a huge win as they took a game in late May over the Las Vegas Starsthat ended a nine-game winning streak for the seemingly unstoppable Stars.

USA All Stars- after scoring 46 points in a USA All Star game, 6 3 Guard Mark Williams was picked up by the Portland Chinooks, where he went on to play 18 games averaging 18.6 points, 6.0 assists and 6.6 rebounds per game. The USA All Stars team is a program designed to get players into the IBL; Mark not only got in the IBL but made the IBL All Star team representing the USA All Stars.

Honorable mention:
5 11 Guard Larry Smith played 29 games for the Portland Chinooks averaging 20.3 points per game

6 5 Guard Jeff Dunn (an IBL All Star in 2006 and 2007) played for the Central Oregon Hotshots before being picked up by the Edmonton Chill finishing the 2008 season with 19 games, averaging 24.6 points per game.

6 9 Center Ronnel Mingo played in 17 games for the Los Angeles Lightning averaging 20.1 points and 9.3 rebounds per game.

6 6 Forward Mike Tabb (an IBL All Star in 2007) played in 17 games for the Las Vegas Stars averaging 20.5 points per game, 2.5 assists and 7.2 rebounds per game.

6 4 Guard Paul Hafford (an IBL All Star in 2007) sparked the comeback for the Bellingham Slam at the IBL Championship game scoring 30 points and grabbing 10 rebounds; Hafford averaged a touch over 17 points and 5 rebounds per game during the regular season.

6 6 Forward Dominick Melton (an IBL All Star in 2007) played 16 games for the Holland Blast averaging 18.5 points, 2.1 assists and 5.8 rebounds per game.

6 0 Point Guard Barry Bradford (an IBL All Star in 2007) played 23 games for the Windy City Soldiers averaging 8.5 assists per game (third best in the IBL); Barry also averaged 11.6 points and 3.2 rebounds per game. The Soldiers won 11 games in 2008an improvement from 0 wins in 2007.


ABOUT THE INTERNATIONAL BASKETBALL LEAGUE

Two unique features distinguish the IBL from other professional basketball leagues: 1) An entertaining gameby allowing only one timeout per quarter, and reducing dead time with an immediate inbounds policy, IBL games are always fast and entertaining. IBL teams average 125 points per contest; just as importantthe contest only lasts two hours. 2) Extremely low travel costs Organizing teams in regional clusters has enabled the IBL to offer owners an unprecedented one flight guarantee. IBL teams can play a variety of opponents from all over the country, indeed, the worldand only fly one time. This efficiency also applies to international teams, who can play a complete 20-game away schedule with just one flight to the U.S.

The 2009 season will mark the IBLs 5th season- and it will be the second year that the league is truly international. China and Canada competed in 2008 and in the upcoming 2009 seasona team from Japan (Nippon Tornadoes) and a second Canadian team (Vancouver Titans from British Columbia) has also joined the IBL. In addition to teams from overseas and Canada playing in the IBL, IBL teams have gone to Asia to competeboth the Central Oregon Hotshots and the Elkhart Express (Indiana) played games in China in 2007. IBL players are international in their destinations after the IBL season ends; in 2007 the count was 102 players who went from the IBL to land a basketball job overseas.

About IBL founder Mikal Duilio: Founder Mikal Duilio has operated sports leagues and events for 22 years. As a teenager from 1985 to 1992Duilio founded & directed the Indianola Jamball League (Iowa). In 1992, Duilio obtained a Masters Degree from Iowa State University and moved to Portland, Oregon where he founded & directed PortlandBasketball.Com. For 14 years and runningPortlandBasketball.Com has been & is the worlds largest basketball league with 5,500 amateur basketball games per year. Duilio founded PugetSoundBasketball.Com in Seattle in 2004, but sold the business within one year. In November of 2003, Mikal Duilio founded the International Basketball League with test games in the Pacific NW; the first official IBL game occurred in April of 2005; on that opening night, former NBA All Star Tim Hardaway scored 50 points for a team in Waterloo, Iowa as his team lost 129-131 in overtime. In April of 2009, the IBL will tip off its fifth year.


IBL announces 2008 All Stars - by Richard

Bellingham Slam (finished 194) The Bellingham Slam won the 2008 IBL Championship on July 18 th over the twotime champion Elkhart Express. 6' 2' Guard Ryan Diggs (right) played in 22 games for the Slam averaging 25.6 points, 6.3 assists and 5.8 rebounds per game. 6' 7' Forward Tyler Amaya played in 15 games averaging 21.8 points, 4.4 assists and 9.2 rebounds per game. 6' 4' Guard Jacob Stevenson played in 21 games averaging 18.4 points, 3.7 assists and 4.3 rebounds per game. 6' 7' Forward Lukas Henne played in 22 games averaging 17.4 points, 2.4 assists and 8.0 rebounds per game.

Elkhart Express (finished 232) the Elkhart Express came into the 2008 title game with 23 wins to only 1 loss. The Express were led by coach Daimon Beathea and 8 players who averaged double figures in scoring. The top scorer was 6' 2 Guard Cedric Moodie (right), (also an IBL All Star in 2006 and 2007) knownnot only for his numbers, but for his clutch play in big games. Cedric played in 22 games averaging 28.1 points, 3.3 assists and 4.6 rebounds per game. An NBA summer league player for the Chicago Bulls7' 1' Center Chris Charles gave Elkhart a formidable presence inside averaging 12.0 points and 9.9 rebounds per game. Leadership came from third year player for the Express 6' 4' Forward Coleco Buie (also an IBL All Star in 2007) played in 20 games averaging 12.8 points, 2.9assists & 3.3 rebounds per game. Newcomer 6' 10' Forward Jarrod Lovette played in 19 games averaging 12.4 points & 6.2 rebounds per game. Elkhart's only 2 losses were to the Gary Steelheads mid season and in the championship game to the Bellingham (Wa) Slam.

Gary Steelheads (finished 184) - The Steelheads completed the season with 18 wins to only 4 losses. 5' 9' Point Guard Royce Parran (right) played in 20 games averaging 17.3 points, 6.3 assists and 3.8 rebounds per game. Parran finished with a tripledouble in the 2008 IBL AllStar game en route to MVP honors, and scored 49 points against Holland on June 20th. 5' 11' Guard Shaun Fountain played in 16 games, averaging 17.1 points, 5.6 assists and 4.1 rebounds per game. 6' 6' Forward Benson Callier played in 20 games averaging 12 points, 2.3 assists and 5.1 rebounds per game. The Steelheads fourth All Star selection was 7' 0' Center Kenyon Gamble, who played in 19 games averaging 5.4 points, 1 assist and 7.2 rebounds per game.

Vancouver Volcanoes (finished 187) - 6' 0' Point Guard Kevin Tyner (right) played in 25 games and averaged 20.2 points, 6.1 assists and 4.9 rebounds per game. 6' 5' Guard Porter Troupe (also an IBL All Star in 2007) also played in 25 games averaging 22.3 points, 6.1 assists and 5.5 rebounds/game. 6' 7' Forward Jake Carlisle played in 24 games averaging 17.2 points, 1.2 assists & 7.1 rebounds per game. Under new owner Bryan Hunter and new head coach Theo Evans, the Volcanoes won more games in 2008 than all of their victories combined from 2005, 2006 and 2007. The Vancouver Volcanoes also won a team award‘ Best Team for Player Advancement' as 7 of their members are going on to play or coach overseas (Kevin Tyner, Porter Troupe, Josh Jackson, Shawn Malloy, Edjuan Green, Alex Hartman and head coach Theo Evanscoaching Division 1 Romania).

Edmonton Chill (finished 139) 6' 4' Guard J.R. Patrick (also an IBL All Star in 2006 for the Eugene Chargers) played in 20 games averaging 21.1 points, 2.4 assists and 4.6 rebounds per game. 6' 1 Point Guard Rashaun Broadus played in 20 games averaging 20.7 points, 4.5 assists and 5.3 rebounds per game. 6' 11' Center Lee Scruggs played in 20 games, averaging 17.6 points, 1.2 assists and 9.7 rebounds per game. Edmonton won 13 games to only 9 losses in 2008 including a 10game home win streak.

Snohomish Explosion (finished 1410) 6' 2' Point Guard Jamaal Miller played in 20 games averaging 16.1 points, 5.0 assists and 4.4 rebounds per game. 6' 4' Guard Donald Watts (also an IBL All Star in 2006 and 2007) played in 19 games averaging 17.6 points, 3.2 assists and 6.3 rebounds per game. The Explosion had an up and down season on the court but won a team award off of the court—‘Best Game Day StaffGame Day Operations'; the Explosion will host the IBL west regional tournament again in 2009.


Las Vegas Stars (finished 1010) 6'4' Guard Demetrio Butler played in 19 games averaging 24.7 points, 2.0 assists and 6.6 rebounds per game. 6' 2' Guard Eddy Shelby (also an IBL All Star in 2007) played in 21 games averaging 23.2 points, 6.3 assists and 7.8 rebounds per game.

Portland Chinooks Forward 6' 9' David Lucas (also an IBL All Star in 2007) led the IBL in scoring averaging 37.0 points along with 1.4 assists and 9.7 rebounds per game. Forward 6' 5' Kenny Tate returned to All Star status (Tate was an IBL All Star in 2005 and in 2006) by averaging 18.6 points, 5.2 assists and 8.4 rebounds per game over his 29 games played.

Holland BlastPoint guard 5' 8' Dennis Springs (also an IBL All Star in 2006 and 2007) played in 17 games and averaged 26.8 points, 8.2 assists and 4 rebounds per game. Guard 6' 3' Jared Bledsoe led Holland to a perfect 7 wins and 0 losses before an injury cut his season short. Bledsoe averaged 29 points per game in his 7 games (Bledsoe was an IBL All Star in 2006 as well).

Battle Creek Knights 6' 5' Guard Bobby Madison (also an IBL All Star in 2005) played 22 games averaging 19.1 points, 2.5 assists and 7.5 rebounds per gamefor the fourth year Battle Creek Knights.

L.A. Lightning 6'7' Forward Lamond Murray (also an IBL All Star in 2007) played in 11 games averaging 26.6 points, 1.2 assists and 11.9 rebounds per game. 6' 4' Guard Fred Vinson (also an IBL All Star in 2007) played in 17 games, averaging 16.5 points, 3.0 assists and 3.8 rebounds per game.

Elgin Racers 6'0' Guard Brandon Watkins (also an IBL All Star in 2005) played in 14 games averaging 23 points, 6.2 assists and 3.1 rebounds per game. 6' 8' Forward Keith Gayden (also an IBL All Star in 2007) played in 16 games, averaging 17.5 points, 1 assist and 9.8 rebounds per game.

Jazz of Tacoma -The Jazz of Tacoma improved on their 5 wins from the 2007 season by winning 9 games in the 2008 season. 6' 8' Forward Dontay Harris (also an IBL All Star in 2005 & 2007) played in 16 games averaging 18.3 points, 3.1 assists & 9.3 rebounds per game. 6' 6' Guard Lorenzo Rollins averaged 15.1 points, 2.9 assists and 5.0 rebounds per game.

Windy City Soldiers -6'9' Forward Erik Rhinehart could be the newcomer of the year in the IBL, playing in 21 games, averaging 23.5 points, 1.3 assists and 6.7 rebounds per game. 6' 7' Forward DeMarcus Bolton played in 18 games scoring 19.8 points, 1.2 assists per game and 7.4 rebounds per game. Windy City won a team award as the ‘most improved team in 2008' (018 in 2007 to 1116 in 2008).

Central Oregon Hotshots -6'4' Guard Cliff White played in 23 games for the Hotshots averaging 18.0 points, 5.2 assists and 4.7 rebounds per game. White was arguably one of the best defenders in the IBL.

Returning Hotshot -6'4' Forward Terry Horton played in 16 games averaging 23.8 points, 2.6 assists & 10.6 rebounds per game (2nd best in the IBL). For both players, this was their first IBL All Star selection.


Grand Rapids Flight -6'4' Guard Kenny Langhorne played in 18 games averaging 25.8 points, 3.8 assists and 5.2 rebounds per game.

Courtesy of IBL



IBL Honorable Mention - by Richard
5 11 Guard Larry Smith (6'0''-G-81, college: E.Oregon) played 29 games for the Portland Chinooks averaging 20.3 points per game
6 5 Guard Jeff Dunn (6'5''-G-83, college: Corban) (an IBL All Star in 2006 and 2007) played for the Central Oregon Hotshots before being picked up by the Edmonton Chill finishing the 2008 season with 19 games, averaging 24.6 points per game.
6 9 Center Ronnel Mingo played in 17 games for the Los Angeles Lightning averaging 20.1 points and 9.3 rebounds per game.
6 6 Forward Mike Tabb (6'6''-G/F-82, college: San Jose City JC) (an IBL All Star in 2007) played in 17 games for the Las Vegas Stars averaging 20.5 points per game, 2.5 assists and 7.2 rebounds per game.
6 4 Guard Paul Hafford (6'4''-G-84, college: Portland St.) (an IBL All Star in 2007) sparked the comeback for the Bellingham Slam at the IBL Championship game scoring 30 points and grabbing 10 rebounds; Hafford averaged a touch over 17 points and 5 rebounds per game during the regular season.
6 6 Forward Dominick Melton (6'6''-F, college: Wisc.-Parkside) (an IBL All Star in 2007) played 16 games for the Holland Blast averaging 18.5 points, 2.1 assists and 5.8 rebounds per game.
6 0 Point Guard Barry Bradford (6'0''-G-79, college: Trinity Intern.) (an IBL All Star in 2007) played 23 games for the Windy City Soldiers averaging 8.5 assists per game (third best in the IBL); Barry also averaged 11.6 points and 3.2 rebounds per game. The Soldiers won 11 games in 2008—an improvement from 0 wins in 2007

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  IRELAND   


U20 EC, division B: Norway too strong for Ireland - by Eurobasket News
U20 Ireland - U20 Norway 57-94

Second day of the Classification Round from 9th to 16th place ended joyfully for the Norwegians. They succeeded to grab the first win taking second position in Group G. It means that Norway stays in the race for position number nine on U20 European Championship division B in Targu Mures. Ireland is the last ranked team in this group and it will fight for position number 13 together with Great Britain and two more teams from group H (Slovakia/Poland/Austria).

Since the very beginning Norway was the team which had a control on its opponent. Ireland missed many shots during the first few minutes which Terrence Oglesby (188-G-88) and his teammates exploited. At the middle of the first frame it already was 3-12 for the Norwegians. Ten minutes later, after successful jump shot by Terrence Oglesby, Norway already reached plus 24, 18-42. Ireland couldn't show any better performance in the second half as it had only two players in the game mood today, Keith Anderson (188-G-89) and Cian Nihill (193-G-88). On the other side Norway had four players which scored more than 14 points resulting with plus 37 at the very end. The Irish struggled a lot with their stroke from behind the arc in this game. They succeeded to net only 1 of 14 attempts what could be one of the reasons for this huge defeat.

Terrence Oglesby once again shined for the winners scoring 20 points for 20 minutes. Torgrim Sommerfeldt (200-G-89) followed him with 16 points and 5 boards while Miilah Kombat (201-F-88) also demonstrated nice performance having 14 points and 7 boards. Ireland got 20 points from Keith Anderson. Cian Nihill finished the game scoring 12 points.


U20 Ireland - U20 Norway 57-94
(16-23, 12-27, 13-18, 16-26)

Ireland: Keith Anderson 20, Cian Nihill 12
Norway: Terrence Oglesby 20, Torgrim Sommerfeldt 16 (5 rebs), Miilah Kombat 14 (7 rebs)

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  ISRAEL   


Ukraine rout Israel to wrap up Qualifying round campaign - by Eurobasket News
Ukraine U20 - Israel U20 84:68

Ukrainian U20 National Team celebrated their first win at the Qualifying round of the European Championship in Latvia. They defeated Israel to occupy the 4th overall spot in Group E. Israel slipped to 0-5 record and remained at the 6th spot in the ladder. Sergiy Gladyr (196-G/F-89) knocked down 23 points to pace Ukraine. Gal Mekel (195-G-88) answered with 17 points for Israel. The teams traded baskets throughout the opening stanza and Ukraine enjoyed a narrow 21:18 advantage at the break. Denys Lukashov (187-G-89), Larin and Tonchenko stretched the margin to 10 points midway through the second term. Israel reacted with a 7:0 rally to trim the distance. Ukraine made another push early in the third frame as Oleksandr Sizov (200-F-88) and Sergiy Gladyr paced the team to a 12:0 run to make it a 52:38 game. Ukraine kept Israel at distance through the rest of the period and entered the fourth term up by 8 points. Vadym Norenko (204-F-88), Oleksandr Sizov and Denys Lukashov kept things rolling for Ukraine in the final quarter and Israel never seriously threatened the margin. Oleksandr Sizov tallied 22 points and 11 boards for Ukraine. Denys Lukashov added 15 points for the winners. Oded Brandwein (188-G-88, agency: Ronsport) contributed 13 points for Israel in defeat. Ukraine outrebounded Israel 46:39 and converted solid 40% from beyond the arc. Ukraine will take on Montenegro in the semifinal round for 5th-8th spots. Israel will face Latvia in the game for 9th-12th places.

Ukraine U20: Sergiy Gladyr 23, Oleksandr Sizov 22+11 boards, Denys Lukashov 15
Israel U20: Gal Mekel 17, Oded Brandwein 13

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  ITALY   


Market news and rumors - by Gianni Pascucci
Air Avellino agreed to terms with Slovenian veteran Marko Tusek (203-F-75). Basket Napoli announced the one yeat agreement with USA-PAN Gary Forbes (201-G/F-85, college: Virginia). Premiata Montegranaro signed Dusan Mladjan (199-G-86, agency: Interperformances) and there are rumors that couls sign soon NBA great Shawn Kemp (209-F-69, college: Trinity Valley JC), who is considering to come back to active playing in Italian Serie A. Snaidero Udine should announce soon the agreement with Doron Perkins (188-G-83, college: Santa Clara). In Lega 2, Basket Rimini Crabs announced the signing of import Phil Goss (186-G-83, college: Drexel) and young CUB-ITA Yankiel Moreno (190-G-90). Fileni Jesi inked Michael Cuffee (193-F-83, college: Middle Tenn.St.)

Lithuania beat Italy to reach semifinal - by Eurobasket News
Lithuania U20 - Italy U20 79:89

Lithuanian U20 National Team entered the semifinal stage at the European Championship in Latvia. They overcame Italy in a key matchup in Group E of the Qualifying round. Lithuania needed a 4-point win over Italy to advance and they fulfilled the task in a tough game for both sides. The teams kept it close in the opening stanza and Lithuania led by just 3 points at the first intermission 22:19. Italy quickly denied the deficit and surged in front 31:27 midway through the period. Lithuania still managed to jump in front late in the half as they built a 40:37 halftime advantage. The Baltic team used a 10:5 run at the start of the third frame to open an 8-point lead. Italy responded with four free throws from Pietro Aradori (192-G-88) and a three-pointer from Eliantonio to regain the lead at 55:54. Lorenzo D'Ercole (190-G-88) capped the third stanza with a trey giving Italian team a much-needed 64:60 buffer. Martynas Gecevicius (194-G-88), Donatas Motiejunas (214-C-90) and Brazdauskis fueled a comeback rally from Lithuania as they gained a 67:66 advantage early in the final term. Lithuania maintained the gap and Zygimantas Janavicius (195-G-89, agency: Interperformances) hit a three-pointer to enlarge the margin to 9 points. All Italy could do was to cut the deficit to 7 points but accurate free throws from Martynas Gecevicius sealed the winning outcome for Lithuania at the end. Martynas Gecevicius nailed 26 points for Lithuania. Zygimantas Janavicius had 18 points, while Donatas Motiejunas added 17 points for the winners. Pietro Aradori answered with 25 points for Italy. Lorenzo D'Ercole dropped 16 points in a losing case.

Lithuania U20: Martynas Gecevicius 26, Zygimantas Janavicius 18, Donatas Motiejunas 17
Italy U20: Pietro Aradori 25, Lorenzo D'Ercole 16

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  IVORY COAST   


Nigeria on course, beat Cote d'Ivoire, Togo - by Olusegun Ikuesan
Nigeria senior national team, DTigers to the FIBA Africa Zone-3 elimination currently on in Yamoussoukro, Cote dIvoire is on course to clinch a place at the 2009 FIBA Africa Championship for Men.

Ayo Bakare tutored side Tuesday defeated host Cote dIvoire by 55-45 points to announce to the rest of the zone that it meant business and on Wednesday handed down a 76-43 points win to Togo.

The Tunji Awojobi captained side will observe Thursday as rest day just as Cote dIvoire takes to the floor against Togo in the reverse fixture after beating the Togolese side on Monday by 61-51 points.

The Nigerian side made up of nine home-based players and three foreign based will Friday confront Cote dIvoire in the reverse fixtures and on Saturday will play her last match against Togo before jetting back home on Monday aboard a Bellview Airlines.

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  JAPAN   


Shiga well prepared for 2008-09 season - by kenji hilke
Shiga Lakestars, the new expansion team that will join the bj-League for its first year in the 2008-09 season is taking matters very seserious. The team started off with signing a contract with Robert Pierce , A formor coach of Hitachi Sunrockers from JBL who has lived in Japan for many years and has great experience with Asian players. Pierce also has experience as a international scout for the Cleveland Cavaliers. It seems that Shiga is taking full advantage of Pierce's connections through out the world by signing formor college stand out Bobby Nash (198-G/F-84) and a very physical big man Brayden Billbe (208-C-85, college: American) who has led his formor team Svendborg Rabbits to a Danish cup championship and league finals. Shiga has not yet announced their full roster but Shiga is showing that they are not going to take their first year easy and not excepting the common expansion team role as a doormat team.

The Dolphins Wear Parada - by Kenny
According to sources around the league, the Mitsubishi Diamond Dolphins of the JBL have acquired 7-foot Mexican-American center Adam Parada (213-C-81, agency: Octagon, college: Cal-Irvine) for the upcoming season. The soon-to-be 27-year old U.S.-born, Mexican national team member has played in Jordan, Korea, and the Philippines since finishing his career at UC-Irvine in 2004.

The JBL regular season will tip off on September 26th.


Notes: Aisin has decided not to renew the contract of 2-year JBL veteran swingman Alpha Bangura while Toshiba has decided to not renew the contracts of both 2-year JBL veteran Randy Holcomb and F Jamar Smith.

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  KBDL   


Kevin Listerman, head coach of the THUNDER has been promoted to KBDL - by Thom McQueen
Kevin Listerman , head coach of the THUNDER has been promoted to KBDL Vice-President, Appalachian Conference. Kevin played for Northern Kentucky University and later became assistant coach at NKU. As a player, Listerman helped NKU make four NCAA Division II tournament appearances and two national championship games. He finished his career as NKU's all-time leader in steals and games played.He took the coaching position with the Thunder in their first season and led them to a conference championship..

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  KUWAIT   


TEST NEWS - by Alexei Naumov


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  LATVIA   


Defending champions enter semis in Latvia - by Eurobasket News
Serbia U20 - Latvia U20 97:70

The European U20 reigning champions Serbia continued their title defense with a comprehensive win over hosting Latvia at the end of the Qualifying round yesterday. Serbia tamed the hosts to book their spot in the semifinal. Latvia lost their first game at this stage of the competition and dropped to 2-3 record to play for the 9th spot. Serbia will face Turkey in the semifinal clash tomorrow. Mladen Jeremic (196-G-88, agency: CAA Sports) came up with 21 points for Serbia who were well in control throughout the contest. Milan Macvan (205-F/C-89) was helpful with 17 points and 8 assists, while Boban Marjanovic (221-C-88) had 12 points for the winners. Rihards Kuksiks (197-F-88) responded with 25 points for Latvia. Janis Strelnieks (185-G-89) secured 15 points in defeat. Serbia got to a stunning start to the game as they accounted for first 12 points. They continued to roll confidently and secured a 22:8 lead ten minutes into action. Boban Marjanovic and Mladen Jeremic opened the second quarter with 5 straight points and Serbia led 27:8 at the moment. Latvia however used a 12:3 rally midway through the second frame to get as close as 6 points from Serbia. Stefan Sinovec (195-G-88) crowned the first half with 5 points for Serbia and the Balkan team enjoyed a 46:37 margin at the interval. Mladen Jeremic, Milan Macvan and Raduljica stretched the difference to double digits in the third period and Serbia kept the home team at bay through the rest of the competition. Serbian players outrebounded their opponents 40:28 and committed only 9 turnovers down the stretch. They shot impressive 57% from beyond the arc, while limiting Latvia to just 36% accuracy from the field.

Serbia U20: Mladen Jeremic 21, Milan Macvan 17, Boban Marjanovic 12
Latvia U20: Rihards Kuksiks 25, Janis Strelnieks 15

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  LITHUANIA   


Zalgiris keeps Jankunas, Seibutis moves to Spain - by Eurobasket News
Lithuanian champion Zalgiris Kaunas extended contract with Paulius Jankunas (204-F-84, agency: Interperformances) for two more years (1 + 1 deal). Jankunas helped his team last season adding 8.6 ppg and 4.8 rpg for 20 Euroleague games. He showed slightly better performance in domestic championship as well as in Baltic league. He recorded almost the same digits in these two competitions 11.6 ppg and 6.2 rpg. Interesting is that Zalgiris is the only team where Jankunas ever played. He won many trophies with them over the past seven years. As a reminder just last season Zalgiris earned triple crowns. The team was better than Lietuvos Rytas in three finals: Baltic league, domestic championship and National Cup.

Lithuanian shooting guard Renaldas Seibutis (196-G-85) will continue career in Bilbao Basket. He played the last one for Olympiakos Pireus but he appeared just 3 times in Euroleague and 5 times in Greek A1 league. A year before that he spent in Maroussi Athens as a loaned payer from Olympiakos. He played 26 games for Maroussi in A1 league adding 13.5 ppg, 2 rpg and 1.5 apg. At the same time Maroussi competed in FIBA EuroCup where he had 12.4 ppg and 3.8 rpg in 12 games. In order to play abroad Seibutis left Lithuania for the first time in 2005 joining Greek giant. As a player of Sakalai Vilnius he was 'Guard of the Year 2005' in Baltic league.

--
Bilbao Basket Berri has replaced C.B. Girona in the 2008-09 Eurocup and Cajasol has joined the second qualifying round, Euroleague Basketball announced Thursday. Club Basquet Girona, which had a guaranteed spot in the 2008-09 regular season, announced in a press conference on Friday that it would not take part in the Eurocup nor the Spanish League (ACB) next season. The club could not match the economic standards required to compete in both competitions due to its difficult financial situation. As such, Bilbao Basket Berri, which was initially set to play the second qualifying round, takes Girona's vacant spot and joins Group H along with KK Hemofarm, CEZ Nymburk and either Galatasaray Cafe Crown, Siauliai or Buducnost, whichever reaches the regular season group via the qualifying rounds. Cajasol steps in to fill the vacancy left by Bilbao Basket in the second qualifying round and will reach the Eurocup regular season if it downs the winner of the first qualifying round series between ASK Riga or Cholet Basket. (Courtesy of Euroup)
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Lithuania beat Italy to reach semifinal - by Eurobasket News
Lithuania U20 - Italy U20 79:89

Lithuanian U20 National Team entered the semifinal stage at the European Championship in Latvia. They overcame Italy in a key matchup in Group E of the Qualifying round. Lithuania needed a 4-point win over Italy to advance and they fulfilled the task in a tough game for both sides. The teams kept it close in the opening stanza and Lithuania led by just 3 points at the first intermission 22:19. Italy quickly denied the deficit and surged in front 31:27 midway through the period. Lithuania still managed to jump in front late in the half as they built a 40:37 halftime advantage. The Baltic team used a 10:5 run at the start of the third frame to open an 8-point lead. Italy responded with four free throws from Pietro Aradori (192-G-88) and a three-pointer from Eliantonio to regain the lead at 55:54. Lorenzo D'Ercole (190-G-88) capped the third stanza with a trey giving Italian team a much-needed 64:60 buffer. Martynas Gecevicius (194-G-88), Donatas Motiejunas (214-C-90) and Brazdauskis fueled a comeback rally from Lithuania as they gained a 67:66 advantage early in the final term. Lithuania maintained the gap and Zygimantas Janavicius (195-G-89, agency: Interperformances) hit a three-pointer to enlarge the margin to 9 points. All Italy could do was to cut the deficit to 7 points but accurate free throws from Martynas Gecevicius sealed the winning outcome for Lithuania at the end. Martynas Gecevicius nailed 26 points for Lithuania. Zygimantas Janavicius had 18 points, while Donatas Motiejunas added 17 points for the winners. Pietro Aradori answered with 25 points for Italy. Lorenzo D'Ercole dropped 16 points in a losing case.

Lithuania U20: Martynas Gecevicius 26, Zygimantas Janavicius 18, Donatas Motiejunas 17
Italy U20: Pietro Aradori 25, Lorenzo D'Ercole 16

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  MONTENEGRO   


France pip Montenegro in Riga - by Eurobasket News
France U20 - Montenegro U20 66:62

French U20 National Team snapped their two-game losing streak at the European Championship yesterday. They toppled Montenegro however it never helped the team to reach the semifinal stage at the event. Ludovic Vaty (206-F-88, college: Moraine Valley CC) tallied 13 points, 9 boards and 3 assists to pace France to the win. Vladimir Dasic (209-F-88, agency: Beo Basket) answered with 22 points for Montenegro as the Balkan side suffered the second straight loss. Montenegro also failed to make it to the Final Four. France and Montenegro will now play in the semifinal stage for the 5th-8th spots in Riga. France led throughout the opening stanza and built an 18:7 advantage at the first break. Edwin Jackson (191-G-89) and Abdoulaye MBaye (189-G-88) kept France ahead early in the second frame. Montenegro capped the first half with 4 freebies in a row from Vladimir Dasic and Durisic and cut the gap to 5 points at the interval. Back-to-back trebles from Sead Sehovic (201-G/F-89) and Vladimir Dasic allowed Montenegro to come as close as a single point from France at the start of the third stanza. Nemanja Vranjes (188-G/F-88), Bjelica and Vladimir Dasic put Montenegrin team in charge 42:38 with three quarters gone in the contest. Vladimir Dasic and Sead Sehovic stretched the margin to 6 points but France refused to fold. They went on a 16:0 run to pile up a decisive 10-point lead with under 4 minutes remaining in regulation. Montenegro clipped the distance to 3 points but it was as close as they could get before France sealed the victory. Abdoulaye MBaye and Adrien Moerman (204-F/C-88) knocked down 11 points for France. Antoine Diot (191-G-89) had 10 points in a losing effort. Nemanja Vranjes scored 14 points for Montenegro.

France U20: Ludovic Vaty 13, Abdoulaye MBaye 11, Adrien Moerman 11
Montenegro U20: Vladimir Dasic 22, Nemanja Vranjes 14

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  NBA   


Carter Wants to Stay in New Jersey. - by Bryan Floyd

Vince Carter (6'5''-G-77, college: N.Carolina)was not surprised by any of the moves that the New Jersey Nets made since the 2007-08 season closed but maintained he still wants to be part of the team's future. 'I've never questioned what they're doing, and I definitely want to be here,' Carter said. 'It's the way it goes. It's the business of basketball.' Carter, who averaged 21.3 points per game last season, played through 2007-08 with an ankle injury, but after off-season surgery Carter says he is now healthy and ready to go. Carter is excited about the upcoming season and his new look team. The Nets will open on the road against the Washington Wizards.



Clippers signed Steve Novak ,Pistons signed Walter Sharpe,Bobcats adds Shannon Brown and Knicks have a new assistant coach - by Bruno Baltazar
Los Angeles Clippers acquired Steve Novak (6'10''-F-84, college: Marquette) from the Houston Rockets in return, Houston will have the option to exchange second round picks with the Clippers in 2011.
The two-year NBA sharpshooter averaged 3.9 points while connecting on 34-71 three-pointers (.479) and 49-102 FG (.480) in 35 games played for the Rockets last season. Over the final five games of the 2007-08 campaign, Novak connected on 15-25 (.600) three-pointers en route to averaging 9.8 points per game during that stretch.

Detroit Pistons signed second round draft choice Walter Sharpe (6'9''-F-86, agency: Pro One Sports, college: UAB).
Sharpe was selected by the Detroit Pistons with the No. 32 pick in the second round of the 2008 NBA Draft. The 6-9, 245-pound forward from the University of Alabama Birmingham, played 12 games last season averaging 14.2 points, 6.8 rebounds and 1.8 blocks. He shot 52% from the field and had a career game against University of Rhode Island when he recorded career-highs in points (26) and rebounds (17). Sharpe averaged 9.3 points and 5.0 rebounds during the 2005-06 season for Mississippi State and sat out the 2006-07 season due to NCAA transfer rules.

Charlotte Bobcats signed free agent Shannon Brown (6'3''-G-85, agency: Priority Sports, college: Michigan St.).
The 6-4, 211-pound Brown appeared in 21 games (four starts) split between the Cleveland Cavaliers and Chicago Bulls last season, averaging 5.4 points and 1.0 rebound in 11.4 minutes. In two stints in the D-League, Brown played in 10 games, six for the Rio Grande Valley Vipers (Cavaliers affiliate) and four for the Iowa Energy (Bulls affiliate) with averages of 24.9 points, 5.8 rebounds, 3.2 assists and 1.5 steals in 37.6 minutes.

New York Knicks announced that Kenny Atkinson has been hired as an assistant coach.
Atkinson joins the Knicks after spending the 2007-08 season as the Director of Player Development with the Houston Rockets where he was responsible for improving player performance through on-court, one-on-one skill development and the use of video analysis.
Atkinson joined the Rockets after three years serving as the Director of Player Development/Assistant Coach with the Paris Basket Racing Club in France from 2004-06. While in Europe, Atkinson also was a Reebok EuroCamp Coach in Treviso, Italy during the summers of 2005 and 2007. He spent the 2006 summer as the Director of Player Development for the national team of the Republic of Georgia.
Following a standout collegiate career at the University of Richmond where he led the Spiders to a Sweet 16 appearance in the NCAA Tournament, the Northport, NY-native and St. Anthonys HS (South Huntington) graduate played professionally in Italy, France, Holland, Germany and Spain from 1991-2004.

2008/2009 NBA season schudale released - by Bruno Baltazar
The NBA announced the schudale for the next season.
In the opening day of action in October,28th we will see two games:
Cleveland @ Boston
The champs will face LeBron James (6'8''-F-84) ,might be the Cavs player revenge after last year playoffs elimination in game 7 against Paul Pierce (6'7''-F-77, college: Kansas).
Portland @ LA Lakers
The 2nd game of the night will be between the finalists of last season,Lakers against Greg Oden (7'0''-C-88, college: Ohio St.) and the new Blazers.

On November 21 we will see Oklahoma City was the temporary home for the Hornets while New Orleans was recovering from Hurricane Katrina during the 2005-06 and '06-07 seasons and in '08-09 it becomes the permanent home for Kevin Durant (6'9''-G/F-88, college: Texas) and Co.
On christmas day we have a show of NBA with games such as :
New Orleans at Orlando
San Antonio @ Phoenix
Boston @ LA Lakers
Washington @ Cleveland
Dallas @ Portland

On March 4th,the Suns will travel to Miami and Shaq will comeback to a home he already knows ,some key dates for the next season.
Complete schudale in here:
http://www.nba.com/schedules

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  NCAA1   


Navy: Robinson to Receive Hall of Fame's Human Spirit Award - by Bruno Baltazar
The Naismith Memorial Basketball Hall of Fame announces Sonny Hill and David Robinson (7'1''-C-65, college: Navy) as the co-recipients of The Mannie Jackson - Basketball's Human Spirit Award presented by CSX. This Award is given annually to individuals who have found the game of basketball a contributing aspect to their personal growth and accomplishment, a place to develop an understanding of others, and an avenue that helped shape that individual's growth into a recognized visionary leader in the greater community in which they serve.

These co-recipients of the award both represent the vision for this prestigious award,' said Mannie Jackson, Chairman of the Board at the Basketball Hall of Fame. 'Mr. Hill and Mr. Robinson have made significant contributions to their communities with the resources that were available to them. Both have shown a tremendous amount of dedication and have provided great service to both local and national initiatives.'

Sonny Hill has dedicated his life to youth basketball in the city of Philadelphia. For nearly 40 years, his leagues have been an outlet for inner city basketball in Philadelphia where he serves as an influential leader within the community. In 1968, Hill founded the 'Sonny Hill Community Involvement League' which continues to provide youth with discipline, guidance and direction. The league runs each year with divisions ranging from middle school through adult divisions. He has received an honorary doctorate from Temple University and was named one of the 100 'Most Influential Minorities in Sports' by Sports Illustrated. Hill has also served as an executive advisor for Peter Luukko, President and CEO of the Wachovia Complex and worked television broadcasts for the 76ers in the 1970's. His leagues have provided thousands of kids an opportunity and his dedication and tireless efforts have led to Philadelphia becoming one of the best basketball cities in the country.

David Robinson, who played his college basketball at the Naval Academy and his entire NBA career with the San Antonio Spurs, has had incredible success on the court with his two NBA Championships and 10 All-Star game appearances. Off the court, he has been a strong community resource for the city of San Antonio and the youth. He has founded and donated more than $9 million for the Carver Academy, a school in San Antonio as well as funded scholarship opportunities for youth that graduated high school. In addition, he annually donated 10 percent of his income to the David Robinson Foundation which supported two major projects; the 'Ruth Project' which provided diapers and baby supplies to parents with need and to Feed my Sheep which offered food for the hungry. Robinson received the J. Walter Kennedy Citizenship Award from the NBA in 2003 and was the first athlete to receive the Montblanc de la Culture Award.

Hill and Robinson were chosen as the 2008 Award winners by a blue ribbon committee comprised of national and international business and community leaders, Hall of Famers and others with significant experience and success in improving communities worldwide. Other finalists who reflect the core values of this award and were considered this year included Alonzo Mourning.

Additional criteria for Award candidates include embracing the core values of the game: hard-work, striving to improve and a commitment to others. Beyond the game, candidates must reflect the values of Mannie Jackson's life-long mission to overcome obstacles; challenge the status quo, take responsibility for his or her actions while seeking the highest standard of excellence. Award candidates will be a recognized leader and catalyst for change in their community and an individual who leads by example, demonstrates a philosophy of respectfulness, teamwork, commitment, and human compassion in all aspects of their lives.

The inaugural winner of The Mannie Jackson - Basketball's Human Spirit Award was Dikembe Mutombo. The Mannie Jackson - Basketball's Human Spirit Award presented by CSX will be presented during the Enshrinement Ceremony on Friday, Sept. 5. The evening will also include the induction of the Class of 2008.

Cortesy of NCAA.COM

Brody Angley will play in Switzerland and James Carr leaves Siena - by Bruno Baltazar
Santa Clara University's Brody Angley (5'11''-G-86) (5'11''-G-86) '08 announced Wednesday he will be in Switzerland this year after signing a professional contract to play basketball in Massagno, Switzerland for the Sam-Basket Massagno Club.
Angley, a senior captain who named to the 2008 WCC First Team after collecting Honorable Mention honors in 2007, had a tremendous final season on the Mission Campus for the Broncos. The point guard from Redding, Calif. averaged a career high in points (11.5 per game), rebounds (4.1 per game) and assists (5.3 per game). He placed second in the WCC in assists and was one of the top rebounding guards in the conference. He notched over 10 assists in a game four times and scored 20+ points four times as well.
He ranks in the Top 10 all-time in Bronco history in seven different statistical categories. Angley finished third in assists (506), second in game started (111) and minutes played (3,670), tied for second in games played (122), fifth in steals (173), eighth in three-pointers made (124) and eighth in three-pointers attempted (353). Feb. 2 against Portland, he became the 26th player in school history to reach 1,000 points and he finished with 1,074, good for 22nd all-time. His 164 assists in 2007-08 were the fourth-highest single-season total in school history. He also became the eighth player in program history to play over 1,000 minutes in a season with 1,090 minutes, setting the single season record.
Angley also thanks both coaching staffs for preparing him for the chance to play professionally.

James Carr (6'9''-C) has informed head men's basketball coach Fran McCaffery that he will not return to the Siena basketball program. Carr completed two years at Siena, red-shirting his freshman season before serving as a reserve center for this past year's MAAC Championship team.
Carr appeared in 10 games this past season averaging two minutes per appearance. He blocked four shots, scored two points and grabbed two rebounds in 19 minutes of action.
Siena posted a 23-11 overall record in 2007-2008, claimed the MAAC Regular-Season and Tournament Championship and knocked off Vanderbilt in the NCAA Tournament First Round. All five starters return next season.

UNLV adds another transfer - by Kevin Cochran
UNLV was out of scholarships for the 2008-09 season. But an online skill game has added a key transfer to their program.

Chace Stanback (6'7''-F), who played at UCLA as a freshman, has chosen the Rebels over North Carolina St. and Washington. He will pay his own way this season, then will go on scholarship for the 2009-10 season. Stanback likely would have chosen a school that would give him an immediate scholarship, but his mother, Sarah Quick, recently won $25,000 playing a skill game online. She says she will use that money to pay for her son's education, which allowed him to head to Vegas.

Stanback was a seldom used reserve for the Bruins, averaging just under two points per game. He was a standout at Los Angeles' Fairfax High, averaging 25.8 points and 11.9 rebounds. He is the second high profile transfer for the Rebels this offseason. Ex-Kentucky guard Derrick Jasper (6'6''-G-88) joined the team in July.

Trojans lose another player - by Kevin Cochran

Tim Floyd seemed to have his team set up for a big season. Despite losing O.J. Mayo (6'5''-G-87) to the NBA, Floyd had a deep backcourt, two good forwards, and a top notch recruit in DeMar DeRozan.

Now, his backcourt depth has taken a hit.

Angelo Johnson (5'10''-G-88) (5'10''-G-88), who was expected to compete for a starting job at point guard, has left the program. He is the second unexpected loss for the Trojans, joining Davon Jefferson (6'8''-F-86), who declared for the NBA draft and was not chosen. The reasons for Johnson's deparure were not released by the school.

Johnson started 11 games last year, averaging 4.5 points and 2.1 assists, while shooting 40.3 percent from 3-point range. His future plans are uncertain. As a Minneapolis native, expect Johnson to give strong consideration to Minnesota and coach Tubby Smith .


Transfer Alex Stepheson (6'9''-F), a former North Carolina player, will take his scholarship.



Former Toledo player charged with fixing games - by Eurobasket News
A former University of Toledo basketball player has been charged with point shaving, according to a federal bill of information filed in U.S. District Court in Detroit.

Sammy Villegas (6'6''-G-83, agency: Next Level, college: Toledo), who played for basketball four years at Toledo and has followed that with a professional career in his native Puerto Rico, is accused of shaving points in games during the 2004-05 and 2005-06 seasons.

The case comes a little more than a year after a Toledo football player was accused in a gambling scheme, though the charges against him were dropped. A university spokesman described the cases as isolated incidents.

Villegas, a guard who finished his college career in 2006, also paid another player who took part in the point-shaving ring, prosecutors said. The other player was not charged or named in the bill of information, which was filed June 30.

Gambling scandals have occasionally hit college basketball programs since the days when then-powerhouse City College was hit with accusations against three players in 1951. Scandals rocked Arizona State and Northwestern a decade ago.

Villegas was charged with conspiracy to influence sports contests by bribery and received money and other gifts in exchange for fixing games, prosecutors said.

The charges were first reported Wednesday by WUPW-TV in Toledo.

Prosecutors also didn't name who paid the players. Villegas traveled to Michigan several times to meet with another participant in the scheme, court documents said.

He intentionally missed two free throws in a game against Central State in 2006, prosecutors said.

However, the day of that game, listed in court documents as Feb. 4, 2006, Toledo beat Central Michigan 78-62. The box score from the game shows Villegas hit his only shot of the game, a 3-pointer, and missed two free throws. He did not start but played 21 minutes, the stat sheet shows.

Villegas spoke three times to a conspirator in the scheme on the afternoon before the game and made another phone call to a conspirator later that night, court documents said.

An alternate for Puerto Rico's Olympic basketball team four years ago, Villegas has played professionally the last three seasons there.

Toledo running back Harvey 'Scooter' McDougle Jr. was charged in April 2007 with participating in a bribery scheme to influence sporting contests. A month later, those charges were dropped, but the investigation continued.

McDougle has said he did nothing wrong and never changed how he played to affect the score in any games.

He was accused of accepting cash and a car from a Michigan gambler in return for recruiting players to affect the outcome of Rockets football and basketball games.

The gambler, who was not been charged, has been identified as 50-year-old Gary Manni of Sterling Heights. Manni has said he knew many football and basketball players at the school but they did not fix any games.

McDougle said Wednesday that he never introduced Villegas to Manni and doesn't remember seeing the two together. 'Wow, wow,' McDougle said when told of the charges. 'I haven't the slightest idea what that's about.'

Manni told The Blade of Toledo last September that he would ask players about upcoming games and whether they were going to win. He would place bets based on their information.

But Manni said he lost money betting on Toledo games because the players were always sure that they were going to win. Manni works at a Detroit-area grocery store, but a man who answered the phone there said he was not available.

University spokesman Lawrence Burns said the school is not conducting its own investigation.

'We obviously are concerned,' he said. 'We're confident that if it proves to be true, the culture of our programs are solid. These are isolated events based on individual decisions.'

The school hasn't had any contact with Villegas recently, and isn't aware of any connection between the charges against him and McDougle, Burns said.

A message seeking comment was left Villegas' attorney, John Belanger of Sterling Heights, Mich.

Villegas was the Mid-American Conference freshman of the year in 2002-03, averaging 10.8 points per game. That increased to 13.7 points per game his sophomore season, when the Rockets finished 20-11 and lost in the first round of the NIT to Marquette.

Villegas' playing time and production decreased in his final two seasons. As a senior, he averaged 19 minutes and six points per game.

Courtesy of www.msn.foxsports.com

Matthew Bryan-Amaning is shining for Great Britain this summer - by Eurobasket News
Matthew Bryan-Amaning (6'9''-F-88) continued to shine as a member of the Great Britain U20 National Team Thursday when dropped a game-high 41 points and grabbed 11 rebounds in a high-scoring loss to the Czech Republic at the U20 European Basketball Championships division B.

Bryan-Amaning, a rising sophomore forward for the University of Washington, scored nearly one-half of his team's points in the first half with 20 points and five rebounds in a matchup against the winners of the tournament's Group G pool. With the loss, Great Britain finished third in the group and will play in the 13th-16th place bracket to conclude the tournament this weekend.

A native of London, Bryan-Amaning went 16-for-28 from the field, finished the game with a 57 percent shooting percentage and shot 9-for-12 from the free throw line. He also grabbed a game-high 11 rebounds and blocked four shots.

Following group play, he leads his team and is second among all players in the 35-team tournament with three double-doubles (points-rebounds) and ranks fourth in blocked shots with 1.7 per game. He is among the top-12 players in the event with averages of 17.7 points and 8.2 rebounds per game. His 41-point outburst was the second-highest total in the event, which determines the U20 European champion.

For complete information on the U20 European Championship, click here.

Bryan-Amaning is one of eight returning letterwinners for Coach Lorenzo Romar's talented Husky basketball squad this fall. As a freshman, he played in 33 games and started three. Bryan-Amaning averaged 4.2 points and 3.0 points per game and scored a career-high 12 points twice during the season.

Washington takes the floor for the first time to open the 2008-09 season on Thursday, Nov. 6 with an exhibition game against Western Washington. The Huskies open the regular-season on the road with a Nov. 15 game at Portland before hosting the first two rounds of the O'Reilly Auto Parts CBE Classic on Nov. 17 and 19 in Bank of America Arena.

Courtesy of www.cstv.com

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  NIGERIA   


NDDC, Itex, UBA pledge support - by Olusegun Ikuesan
The annual Royal Hoopers Basketball Classics is to witness a bigger package next year as corporate bodies are set to rally round the competition.

Speaking at the closing ceremony of the classics, Managing Director/ Chief Executive Officer of the Niger Delta Development Commission, NDDC, Timi Alaibe said that he was thrilled to see many youths putting their energy to good use and called on the youths of the Niger Delta to be active in the area of sports as its a veritable area which they can made great impacts.

I wish to use this medium to call on the youths of the Niger Delta to embrace peace and use their raw energy and skills in the way players from all over Nigeria have shown with the Royal Hoopers basketball Classics.

We have very talented players and there are programmes that can be of assistance to as many of them that want to participate. On the part of the NDDC, we promised last year to lift the Classics and we did with the beautiful features were seeing on ground today. We dont intend to stop here but have decided to do more for this championship in the coming year. Its our hope that our youths apply themselves properly for good development of our society.

Speaking in the same vain, Aham Kevin Okoh, UBAs regional director in Port-Harcourt, noted that they became part of the Classics as part of their social responsibility and more importantly because the NDDC were involved in the grooming of youths to lead a better life.

The mere presence of the American coaches is enough encouragement for our youths to be involved with this programme. They can use this as a springboard to greater things and with the potentials we have, there is no reason why our youths cannot re-channel their energies towards activities that can be more useful to their families and the community in general. It is a course were ready to continue to be part of in future events.

An elated Managing Director of Itex Furnitures, Tony Eziekel who saw some of the Games and was given a certificate for his support at the NDDC office on Aba Road, Port-Harcourt said he was proud to have been part of the programme and is willing to increase his support for the event come next edition.

I took it that it was just a small event but what Ive seen has given me the push to do more for the event. Its a good one and the crowd is very encouraging. You can count on me for more assistance in the years to follow.

Coach Alex Nwora of the Global Sports Advantage and the other American coaches that have been part of this programme I thank them and say that they are always welcome, he stated.

Royal Hoopers win Classics in style - by Olusegun Ikuesan
The fourth edition of the annual Royal Hoopers Classics ended Tuesday in Port-Harcourt Rivers State with host Royal Hoopers basketball club as champion with a 61-51 point victory over Union Bank basketball club of Lagos.

The Royal Hoopers basketball club despite playing their semi-final game against Dodan Warriors on the morning of the final, they left no one in doubt about their ambition of winning the title which was achieved in grand style.

Royal Hoopers propelled by their President, Syndoph Endoni threw aside the rating of Union Bank basketball club of Lagos and played as hungry lions to the delight of their numerous fans that thronged the new look Police Officers Mess court located at the heart of the old GRA.

To make assurances double clear for them that they were for the title, they went ahead to win the championship with 10 points ahead of the Stallion boys who had to edge out the FCT Rocks of Abuja in a grueling semi-final game the previous day.

With the victory, Royal Hoopers have joined the list of teams to have won the annual championship which now enjoys the support of the Niger Delta Development Commission, (NDDC), UBA, Pepperoni and Itex Furnitures.

Others teams that have won in the championship in the past include FCT Rocks in 2005; Dodan Warriors in 2006 and Ebun Comet in 2007.

The host team on their way to the final had played in Group-A alongside Bayelsa Waves, Delta Force and Port-Harcourt Knights formerly known as Free Nets and emerged second behind FCT Rocks.

The team went ahead to edged past Dodan Warriors basketball club of Lagos in a game that saw them very determined to win the championship as they had to put in their best with the likes of Bemute Suobo, Gift Achiuwa and others marshalling urging the Hoopers on while coaches Lamai Johnson, Fuburah Onyenabor and Tekeena Okugwa at their best.

Tried as much as Union Bank did to change the course of the game, the fighting spirit of the Port-Harcourt boys was not to be daunted as they went ahead to claim victory that threw many of their fans into wild jubilation.

Union Bank on their way to the final had played in Group-B alongside Ebun Comet, Dodan Warriors, Chariots of Lagos and UNN Lions which featured Victor Okoro of Bauchi Nets.

The third place game saw Dodan Warriors claiming victory over the FCT Rocks in a match that preceded the final game.

For their efforts, the Royal Hoopers basketball team got the sum of N400, 000 in addition to a giant trophy while the runners-up, Union Bank smiled back to Lagos with the sum of N300, 000 and Dodan Warriors got N200, 000 for their effort.

Speaking after his boys won the game; Royal Hoopers president, Endoni expressed joy at the accomplishment of his team and noted that they as a team are now ready for any level of competition especially the Nigeria Basketball Federation organized Premier basketball league.

This victory is like a dream come true and I must say that the players and officials have made us proud and this shows that investing in the youths is paying off handsomely, he stated.

One of the coaches of the team, Teekena Okumgba who also spoke on the teams victory said it was a thing of joy for the team to have made this far.

Our victory goes to show that our hard work has not been in vain. We can only work hard to get better because what we have ahead of us is real big. We thank God for his seeing us through thus far.

Royal Hoopers Gift Achiuwa was voted the Most Valuable Player (MVP) of the classics and got a plaque and certificate for his effort.

The highest scorer in the Classics went to Chariots combo guard, Anyebe Alexandra who scored a total of 84 points, while the award for the highest rebounder went to Joseph Ochiebo also of the Chariots basketball club of Lagos with a total of 48 rebounds.

The leader in assists was claimed by Haruna Maitama who recorded 10 assists and Moses Daudu who featured for the Port-Harcourt Knights recorded 9 steals.

In the area of most 3 points made, Nosa Omorogbe of FCT Rocks took the day just as veteran player Bemute Swabou of Royal Hoopers emerged the best free throw shooter and Echoi Peters of FCT Rocks emerged the leader in block shots.

Nigeria on course, beat Cote d'Ivoire, Togo - by Olusegun Ikuesan
Nigeria senior national team, DTigers to the FIBA Africa Zone-3 elimination currently on in Yamoussoukro, Cote dIvoire is on course to clinch a place at the 2009 FIBA Africa Championship for Men.

Ayo Bakare tutored side Tuesday defeated host Cote dIvoire by 55-45 points to announce to the rest of the zone that it meant business and on Wednesday handed down a 76-43 points win to Togo.

The Tunji Awojobi captained side will observe Thursday as rest day just as Cote dIvoire takes to the floor against Togo in the reverse fixture after beating the Togolese side on Monday by 61-51 points.

The Nigerian side made up of nine home-based players and three foreign based will Friday confront Cote dIvoire in the reverse fixtures and on Saturday will play her last match against Togo before jetting back home on Monday aboard a Bellview Airlines.

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  NORWAY   


U20 EC, division B: Norway too strong for Ireland - by Eurobasket News
U20 Ireland - U20 Norway 57-94

Second day of the Classification Round from 9th to 16th place ended joyfully for the Norwegians. They succeeded to grab the first win taking second position in Group G. It means that Norway stays in the race for position number nine on U20 European Championship division B in Targu Mures. Ireland is the last ranked team in this group and it will fight for position number 13 together with Great Britain and two more teams from group H (Slovakia/Poland/Austria).

Since the very beginning Norway was the team which had a control on its opponent. Ireland missed many shots during the first few minutes which Terrence Oglesby (188-G-88) and his teammates exploited. At the middle of the first frame it already was 3-12 for the Norwegians. Ten minutes later, after successful jump shot by Terrence Oglesby, Norway already reached plus 24, 18-42. Ireland couldn't show any better performance in the second half as it had only two players in the game mood today, Keith Anderson (188-G-89) and Cian Nihill (193-G-88). On the other side Norway had four players which scored more than 14 points resulting with plus 37 at the very end. The Irish struggled a lot with their stroke from behind the arc in this game. They succeeded to net only 1 of 14 attempts what could be one of the reasons for this huge defeat.

Terrence Oglesby once again shined for the winners scoring 20 points for 20 minutes. Torgrim Sommerfeldt (200-G-89) followed him with 16 points and 5 boards while Miilah Kombat (201-F-88) also demonstrated nice performance having 14 points and 7 boards. Ireland got 20 points from Keith Anderson. Cian Nihill finished the game scoring 12 points.


U20 Ireland - U20 Norway 57-94
(16-23, 12-27, 13-18, 16-26)

Ireland: Keith Anderson 20, Cian Nihill 12
Norway: Terrence Oglesby 20, Torgrim Sommerfeldt 16 (5 rebs), Miilah Kombat 14 (7 rebs)

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  PHILIPPINES   


Third straight third place for Red Bull - by Eurobasket News
Adam Parada (213-C-81, agency: Octagon, college: Cal-Irvine) finally came up with the kind of game expected of him Wednesday night. Too bad it came too late for Red Bull.

Still, the Barakos drew strength from Adam Parada's personal conference-high 33 points to beat the Magnolia Beverage Masters, 102-90, for third place in the Smart PBA Fiesta Conference at the Araneta Coliseum.

Adam Parada, who averaged only 16.3 points in the semifinals where Red Bull was swept in four games by Barangay Ginebra, also wound up with 11 rebounds, four assists and as many blocked shots while Leo Najorda added a career-high 22.

Together with Cyrus Baguio's 15 points, the Barakos clinched a third straight third place finish that was last achieved by Sta. Lucia Realty (the 1997 Commissioner's Cup to the '98 All-Filipino).

Best consolation na ito. After our shutout series with Ginebra the least we can do is try and win third, said Barakos coach Yeng Guiao. This makes us consistent with our finishes the whole season and it's not bad for a team like ours. Okay na rin ito.

The victory is made extra special since Magnolia, formerly known as San Miguel Beer, is the league's winningest with 17 titles and also has the most second runner-up honors with 14.

A 15th was denied, despite Kenneth Bono's career game of 15 points and 11 rebounds that led four other Beverage Masters who chipped in at least 10 points each.

A very big factor for the Barakos was Beverage Masters import Amal McCaskill seeing very limited action due to reported injuries on both knees. He started the game but was taken out after only first five minutes, contributing nothing.

Guiao said it is now a matter of renewing the contracts of most of their seven players with expiring pacts and looking forward to their preparations for the coming season that starts October 4.

Guiao revealed that the contracts of Baguio, Mike Hrabak, Topex Robinson, Warren Ybanez and Carlo Sharma are sure to be renewed.

They're already done deals in principle, he said. But first, we have to study the draft prospects because we have a first round pick, said Guiao, whose team picks ninth overall.

Helping Adam Parada the most in the third period was Baguio's 10 points and Celino Cruz's six which allowed the Barakos to outscore the Beveerage Masters 37-27 to go up by 85-70.

Adam Parada already had 18 points and eight rebounds and Najorda 15 in the first half as Red Bull tried to impose its will in the early goings against a Magnolia squad that showed a lot of grit despite playing all-Filipino for majority of the game.

In fact, the Beverage Masters managed to hold their own against the Barakos and even came clambering back from a 70-86 deficit to make it a very manageable 82-86, still plenty of time left.

Behind Adam Parada's steady play and significant contributions from Kiko Adriano, Red Bull quickly re-organized and countered with an 8-0 surge to make it a more comfortable 94-82 count, still 6:14 to go.

Magnolia would come no closer than nine points the rest of the way.

It was a much tighter contest in the first half, where the Beverage Masters jumped the gun on the Barakos for two nine-point leads and kept within striking distance 43-48 at the half.

Mike Cortez and Danny Seigle each had eight points after the first two quarters.

Even rookie Jonas Villanueva chipped in five points in the second quarter, all coming during an 8-2 run that gave Magnolia its second nine-point lead of the game 33-24, 10:21 to go before the break.

But Red Bull simply would not be denied and applied more pressure in the latter part of the quarter and throughout most of the third.

Before Magnolia knew it, Red Bull had stretched its halftime lead to 15 and to its biggest at 86-70 at the start of the payoff period.

The high emotions riding on the game was typified by Sharma, who was ejected with 9:20 left in the fourth period after showing his displeasure on a non-call by throwing the ball on a referee with his team ahead 86-74.

The incident seemed to spark Magnolia's uprising even more as it closed to within four points on a charity split by Dorian Pena. (NCo)


The scores:

Red Bull 102 - Adam Parada 33, Najorda 22, Baguio 15, Adriano 7, Cruz 6, Membrere 5, Bugia 4, Alvarez 4, Duncil 2, Sharma 2, Ybanez 1, Robinson 1, Hrabak 0.

Magnolia 90 - Bono 15, Cortez 13, Tugade 12, Seigle 12, Villanueva 10, Pena 9, Racela 8, Pingris 4, Tolomia 4, Gonzales 2, Eman 1, McCaskill 0, Calaguio 0.

Quarterscores: 22-28, 48-43, 85-70, 102-90.

Courtesy of www.pba.ph

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


U20 EC, division B: Slovakia better than Poland in thriller - by Eurobasket News
U20 Poland - U20 Slovak Republic 66-68

Poland was better than Slovakia in the last game of Qualifying Round for 9th to 16th place improving to 1-2 in Group H. However, despite this victory Slovakians didn't succeed to reach the second place which would allow them to battle for ninth position on U20 European Championship division B in Targu Mures. Same thing happened to Poland, which is the last ranked team in Group H.

After almost leveled first stanza, Slovakians took control on Poland in the next one. Peter Dorazil (198-C-89) and Juraj Hasan (199-C-89) led 10-0 run at the beginning of it setting the score on 20-30. Until the half time Slovakians succeeded to stretch their advantage even more. Thanks to Peter Dorazil's basket at the buzzer Slovakia had 27-44 after 20 minutes. After the breather Slovakia touched plus 25, what was its maximum in this game. Dardan Berisha (192-G-88, agency: Global Sports Plaza) and his teammates woke up in the last frame. They created impressive 21-2 run coming on 62-63. It was an unbelievable turn which made this game very exciting until the end. With 27 seconds to go Adam Waczynski (198-F-89) made first but missed the second free throw for 66-67. On the other side Gabriel Unatinsky (180-G-88) also had 50% from the FT line setting the score on 66-68. In the last Poland's possession Hubert Pabian (200-F-89) missed potentially winning three-pointer after what Dardan Berisha grabbed an offensive rebound but he committed turnover immediately after that (ball handling).

Peter Dorazil was the key player for his team in this game adding 17 points and 13 rebounds. Pavol Losonsky (203-F-88) also showed good performance collecting 15 points, 4 boards and 4 assists. Peter Mikulik (185-G-90) contributed with 15 while Juraj Hasan stopped on 13 points and 5 rebounds. Dardan Berisha had the best digits in Poland, 18 points and 5 rebounds. Hubert Pabian was behind him with 13 points and 4 rebounds while Adam Waczynski had 13 points. Slovakia's next opponent in Targu Mures will be Ireland. On the other hand Poland will have to take on Great Britain.


U20 Poland - U20 Slovak Republic 66-68
(17-18, 10-26, 14-17, 25-7)

Poland: Dardan Berisha 18 (5 rebs), Hubert Pabian 13 (4 rebs), Adam Waczynski 13
Slovak Republic: Peter Dorazil 17 (13 rebs), Pavol Losonsky 15 (4 rebs, 4 as), Peter Mikulik 15, Juraj Hasan 13 (5 rebs)

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


U20 EC, division B: Germany advances to the semis - by Eurobasket News
U20 Germany - U20 Portugal 71-62

Germany ended the Qualifying Round on U20 European Championship division B undefeated. As a reminder the Germans already beat all their rivals at the Preliminary Round finishing it with perfect score 4-0. It means that Germany advanced to the semifinals from top of Group F while Portugal will have to wait until the end of the game between Sweden and F.Y.R. of Macedonia to see on what stage it will continue participation in Targu Mures.

Germany was a better team from the early beginning. After jump shot by Robin Benzing (208-F-89, college: Michigan) the Germans grabbed 15-8. Later Tom-Gerhard Spoler (206-F-88) took care to stretch Germans lead to 11 points. Until the half time they reached advantage of 15 points but thanks to Jose Silva (194-F-89) Portugal went to it with minus 12. Nothing has changed in third quarter as Germany still was the team which dominated. Oskar Fassler (198-G-88) netted 5 points in the row at the end of this period setting the score on 57-43. Until the very end Jose Silva and his teammates were able to come on minus 7 but it was their maximum today.

This time Germany got the most from Tom-Gerhard Spoler, who scored 14 points. Elias Harris (200-F-89) was behind him adding 12 points and 4 rebounds. Tibor Pleiss (214-F/C-89) as well as Philipp Schwethelm (201-F-89, agency: Court Side) had a chance to take a rest not playing the entire game today as Germany already booked a spot for the semifinals on Wednesday. Jose Silva once again shined in Portugal scoring 23 points. He played 36 minutes having solid 4 of 5 for FG2, 4 of 7 for 3-pts and 3 of 4 from the free throw line. The loosing side also got 11 points and 11 boards from Fernando Sico (202-F/C-88).


U20 Germany - U20 Portugal 71-62
(19-12, 18-13, 20-18, 14-19)

Germany: Tom-Gerhard Spoler 14, Elias Harris 12 (4 rebs)
Portugal: Jose Silva 23, Fernando Sico 11 (11 rebs)

*****************************************************
  PUERTO RICO   


Former Toledo player charged with fixing games - by Eurobasket News
A former University of Toledo basketball player has been charged with point shaving, according to a federal bill of information filed in U.S. District Court in Detroit.

Sammy Villegas (6'6''-G-83, agency: Next Level, college: Toledo), who played for basketball four years at Toledo and has followed that with a professional career in his native Puerto Rico, is accused of shaving points in games during the 2004-05 and 2005-06 seasons.

The case comes a little more than a year after a Toledo football player was accused in a gambling scheme, though the charges against him were dropped. A university spokesman described the cases as isolated incidents.

Villegas, a guard who finished his college career in 2006, also paid another player who took part in the point-shaving ring, prosecutors said. The other player was not charged or named in the bill of information, which was filed June 30.

Gambling scandals have occasionally hit college basketball programs since the days when then-powerhouse City College was hit with accusations against three players in 1951. Scandals rocked Arizona State and Northwestern a decade ago.

Villegas was charged with conspiracy to influence sports contests by bribery and received money and other gifts in exchange for fixing games, prosecutors said.

The charges were first reported Wednesday by WUPW-TV in Toledo.

Prosecutors also didn't name who paid the players. Villegas traveled to Michigan several times to meet with another participant in the scheme, court documents said.

He intentionally missed two free throws in a game against Central State in 2006, prosecutors said.

However, the day of that game, listed in court documents as Feb. 4, 2006, Toledo beat Central Michigan 78-62. The box score from the game shows Villegas hit his only shot of the game, a 3-pointer, and missed two free throws. He did not start but played 21 minutes, the stat sheet shows.

Villegas spoke three times to a conspirator in the scheme on the afternoon before the game and made another phone call to a conspirator later that night, court documents said.

An alternate for Puerto Rico's Olympic basketball team four years ago, Villegas has played professionally the last three seasons there.

Toledo running back Harvey 'Scooter' McDougle Jr. was charged in April 2007 with participating in a bribery scheme to influence sporting contests. A month later, those charges were dropped, but the investigation continued.

McDougle has said he did nothing wrong and never changed how he played to affect the score in any games.

He was accused of accepting cash and a car from a Michigan gambler in return for recruiting players to affect the outcome of Rockets football and basketball games.

The gambler, who was not been charged, has been identified as 50-year-old Gary Manni of Sterling Heights. Manni has said he knew many football and basketball players at the school but they did not fix any games.

McDougle said Wednesday that he never introduced Villegas to Manni and doesn't remember seeing the two together. 'Wow, wow,' McDougle said when told of the charges. 'I haven't the slightest idea what that's about.'

Manni told The Blade of Toledo last September that he would ask players about upcoming games and whether they were going to win. He would place bets based on their information.

But Manni said he lost money betting on Toledo games because the players were always sure that they were going to win. Manni works at a Detroit-area grocery store, but a man who answered the phone there said he was not available.

University spokesman Lawrence Burns said the school is not conducting its own investigation.

'We obviously are concerned,' he said. 'We're confident that if it proves to be true, the culture of our programs are solid. These are isolated events based on individual decisions.'

The school hasn't had any contact with Villegas recently, and isn't aware of any connection between the charges against him and McDougle, Burns said.

A message seeking comment was left Villegas' attorney, John Belanger of Sterling Heights, Mich.

Villegas was the Mid-American Conference freshman of the year in 2002-03, averaging 10.8 points per game. That increased to 13.7 points per game his sophomore season, when the Rockets finished 20-11 and lost in the first round of the NIT to Marquette.

Villegas' playing time and production decreased in his final two seasons. As a senior, he averaged 19 minutes and six points per game.

Courtesy of www.msn.foxsports.com

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


U20 EC, division B: Estonia outsmarts Romania after two over times - by Eurobasket News
U20 Romania - U20 Estonia 86-89

Estonia celebrated a victory in the most interesting game on U20 European Championship division B so far. At the same time it was an extremely important game for both teams. The hosts of this event Romania had some chances for the semis but all their hopes dissapeared in the second over time. On the other hand Estonians gave their maximum securing the spot in the semifinals. They won't have an easy job at this stage of the competition as they will face with strong Germany. Romania, which suffered three consecutive defeats, will continue its way in Targu Mures battling for the fifth place.

Estonia had fantastic beginning. Mostly owing to Tanel Kurbas (195-F-88) and Timo Eichfuss (199-F-88) it was 0-11 after three minutes. Later Romania succeeded to recover tying the score on 24-24 but Estonians made 12-3 run grabbing 9 points lead at the half time. Romania was much better team during the next 20 minutes. Titus Nicoara (201-F-88, agency: Interperformances) and Vlad Moldoveanu (210-C-88) were on fire entering into the last minute and a half with 60-58. Romanians had a chance to take this one but Tanel Kurbas drained a jump shot at the very end leading his team to over time. With 00:49 to go in first OT Romania had 74-69 and was very close to victory but Estonia made quick 5-0 run heading into the next five minutes. Romania couldn't forger the previous over time and 5 points lead which Estonians exploited finishing the game 86-89.

Tanel Kurbas paced Estonians to this extremely important victory draining 31 points. Ivar Tulit (202-F-88) needed one more rebound for double-double as he added 15 points and 9 boards. Timo Eichfuss and Margus Klementsov (169-G-89) also help their team a lot scoring 14 points each. Titus Nicoara had wonderful performance for the hosts recording 26 points and 23 rebounds. Daniel Popescu (183-G-88) followed him with 20 points and 7 rebounds while Vlad Moldoveanu had 18 points and 13 rebounds. Romanias next rival in Targu Mures will be F.Y.R. of Macedonia.


U20 Romania - U20 Estonia 86-89
(16-20, 11-16, 21-16, 13-9, 13-13, 12-15)

Romania: Titus Nicoara 26 (23 rebs), Daniel Popescu 20 (7 rebs), Vlad Moldoveanu 18 (13 rebs)
Estonia: Tanel Kurbas 31, Ivar Tulit 15 (9 rebs), Timo Eichfuss 14 (9 rebs), Margus Klementsov 14 (5 rebs)

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


Spain shoot down Russia to reach semifinal stage in Latvia - by Eurobasket News
Spain U20 - Russia U20 78:71

Marc Rubio (193-G-88) scored 18 points and grabbed 7 rebounds and Spain held off Russia to qualify for the semifinal stage at the U20 European Championship in Latvia. They will face Lithuania tomorrow. Russia lost all of their three encounters at the Qualifying stage and finished at the bottom of Group F. They will play against Croatia in the semifinal round for 9th spot.
Russia looked good in the first half dominating the game. They opened a 21:13 lead after one quarter of action. Alexey Shved (196-G-88) tipped off the second term with 7 straight points, while Dmitry Golovin (192-G-88) added three more and Russia enjoyed a 31:13 advantage 12 minutes into the game. Spain struggled to take over and trailed by 14 points at the interval. The situation stayed the same in the third stanza as Russia maintained the lead despite all of the Spanish effort. But Spain finally broke through as Xavier Rabaseda (199-G-89) and Marc Rubio teamed up for 12 points early in the fourth term and Spain grabbed a 64:60 advantage. Joaquin Colom (187-G-88) added 4 more points to stretch the margin. Maxim Krivosheev (205-F/C-88) and Alexey Shved cut the deficit but Victor Claver (204-F/C-88) and Joaquin Colom sealed the winning outcome in the dying minutes. Marc Rubio tallied 18 points and 7 boards for Spain. Joaquin Colom had 17 points, while Victor Claver netted 10 in a win. Ilya Syrovatko (193-G-88) and Alexey Shved had 17 points apiece for Russia. Maxim Krivosheev dropped 12 points and collected 9 boards in a losing case.

Spain U20: Marc Rubio 18, Joaquin Colom 17, Victor Claver 10
Russia U20: Ilya Syrovatko 17, Alexey Shved 17

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


METRO A-League Playoff Schedule & Results... - by David Archer

METRO A-League PLAYOFFS

Mon., Aug. 4th @ Clayton State - South Division


S#5 SuperStar Cafe 69 vs. S#4 Lakers 61 (OT)... Superstar Cafe' battled back from several deficits to force OT, then took advantage of an emotionally destructive Lakers team to take a victory in round one of the playoffs.


S#6 DOTS 94 vs. S#3 Young Gunz 90... David Graham put DOTS on his back and carried them from dispair to victory. Down by 14 in the second half, Graham took control and willed his team to victory behind an offensive performance that will be remembered for a long time. Graham finished with 41 points on the night.
----------------------------------------------------------------
Wed., Aug. 6th @ JH Morgan - North Division


N#5 BC Force 74 vs. N#4 Marietta Outlaw 95... The Force came out like gang-busters and had the slow starting Marietta boys down 18-6. The Force looked good as they moved the ball well and everybody got involved offensively in the first five minutes of the game. But, things changed quickly as Shannon Billings, Isaac Cook and Ezra Williams got warmed up and Marietta raced back, took the lead on a 15-2 run, then continued their tear. When the dust settled Marietta had executed a plethora of dunks and three-pointers to build a 41-22 lead. The Force had gone numb, but managed to regroup and close to with in 51-40 by the half. The Force tested Marietta in the second half, cutting their deficit to six at one point. Marietta cranked up another run as Billings and Cook went nuts to combine for seven second half threes, breaking the Force's backs. Billings finished with a game-high 30, while Williams had 29, Cook 18 and Gene Moss eight. For The Force, who saw their season come to a close, Cook had 18, Marc Reese 13 and Cedric McClinic 12. Jon Allison also had eight in the loss.


N#6 BC Celtics 79 vs. N#3 ServPro-1 90... ServPro made it through to the quarters last night by holding off a scrappy BC Celtics team 90-79. The Celtics got our to an early 9-4 lead, but ServPro-1 stabilized behind the power of Larry Cox. Cox had 18 first half points, dominating the inside fueling ServPro to a lead which forced the Celtics to play catch-up the rest of the way. The Celtics trailed 42-30 at the half, but kept fighting and never gave up, eventually cutting ServPro's lead to four at one point. While Cox was still doing his thing for ServPro-1, Dexter Shaw had dropped a couple of tough treys and Mike Reynolds got in the act to make the game interesting. But, Jermaine Spivey took control down the stretch, drilling four threes and getting free for a lay-in to lead ServPro-1 to victory. ServPro, who advances to the quarters, Cox paced all scorers with 32 points, while Spivey finished with 17, Shan Finley 13, Spencer Dixon 10 and Brandon Byers 10. For the Celtics, Shaw led with 24, while Reynolds, Andrew Jones and DeRon Davis each had 15 and Jeff Croft had 14.


N#8 Knicks-1 76 vs. N#1 Baseline-1 86... Baseline-1 fiddled their way to a first round win over last place Knicks-1 squad. The win-less Knicks stayed with Baseline, as the lead went back forth through out the first half. Terrence Hundley began to wake things up for Baseline has he made a point to get off several trey balls. He downed six in the first half, he single handedly willed Baseline to a shaky 47-42 lead at the half. The Knicks-1 started the second half off strong, scoring the first eight points, to take a 50-47 lead. Baseline was again playing with no energy and seemingly no interest. After a timeout and setting up a new offensive scheme, Joe Hamilton would go on an offensive tear, scoring nine of a 12-2 run by Baseline. Baseline also switch to a zone offense that threw the Knicks-1 off for a three minute stretch. Baseline pushed out to a 59-52 lead. The Knicks-1 managed to threaten a few times, behind the hard inside work of Jonathan Johnson and surprising scoring of Eddie Lee Wilkins, but Baseline would build on that lead, going up as much as 14 at one point. Kurtis Woods hit two nice face-up threes and got a monster dunk down the stretch and Baseline closed the game out, to move on to face Marietta in the quarters. Hundley led Baseline-1 with 29 points, while Hamilton had 26, Woods 20 and Chris Jones 10. Johnson finished with 25 for the Knicks, while Eddie Lee Wilkins had 23 and Obrian Wilkins 15.


N#7 Supreme 66 vs. N#2 Skyline 69... Derrick Thomas' three pointer as the buzzer sounded propelled Skyline to the quarter-finals. J.D. Pollock led Skyline with 23 points, while Antone Anderson had 17 in the win for Skyline.

Thur., Aug. 7th @ Clayton State - South Division
S#1 Atlanta Speedboys defeated S#5 Superstar Sports Cafe' ... The Speedboys, who also took home the Michael Jordan Tournament Trophy last weekend in North Carolina, will be returning to the SEBL Metro A-League Final Four after a solid win over Superstar Sports Cafe' in the South Division quarterfinals at Clayton State. The Speedboys, have been on a roll this year, winning the Georgia State Men's Open Tournament, claiming the 2007-8 SEBLi Title last winter and capturing 'Nationals' in Florida in March. They will face Skyline on Saturday night at 7:30pm.


S#2 Tri-County Crusaders defeated S#6 DOTS... After a big win over a hot DOTS team, Tri-County made it to the SEBL Metro A-League Final Four for the second time in it's team history. Likewise, for the second time, Tri-County will not be able to honor the commitment of participating in the SEBL Metro Final Four. As in 2004, Tri-County has advanced but due to prior commitments will be able to field a team in Cartersville this weekend. Under SEBL League rules, the rights then fall to the next highest seeded team who lost in the quarter-finals, which would technically be the Baseline-1 squad, who were the North #1 seed. However, after a heartless display of sportsmanship and competitiveness, Baseline-1 will not be allowed the opportunity. Therefore, the opportunity slides to #2 seed Skyline.


----------------------------------------------------------------
Thur., Aug. 7th @ JH Morgan - North Division
N#4 Marietta Outlaw 83 vs. #1 Baseline-1 69... Marietta bursted out to a 13-3 lead at the outset and was never really tested by a heartless, malcontented Baseline-1 team. Markeith Cummings, in his first game back from injury, power dunked his way to 20 points off the bench, while Ezra Williams had 16. As a team, Marietta downed 14 threes for the game. Marietta advances to the Final Four, where they will take on ServPro-1. Baseline saw a lackluster season come to a close, after beginning the season on what was an uneasy 8-0 stretch. With out the services of leading scorer, Ronell Wooten (25ppg) and Rod Ashmore (14pp), Baseline lost to the 7th best team in the North in the final game of the regular season, then struggled against the win-less Knicks-1 squad in the opening round of the playoffs, before being mentally and physically handled by Marietta Outlaw. With the turn of events with Tri-County not being able to play in the Final Four, Baseline-1 technically could have taken that slot in the Final Four, by virtue of being the next highest seed to lose in the quaters. However, Coach David Archer, made the decision not to allow the Baseline players that opportunity.


N#3 ServPro 65 vs. #2 Skyline 63...
----------------------------------------------------------------
Sat., Aug. 9th @ JH Morgan - FINAL FOUR!
6:30pm #3 Seed Marietta Outlaw vs. #2 Seeded ServPro-1
7:30pm #4 Seed Skyline vs. #1 Seed Atlanta Speedboys
----------------------------------------------------------------
Sun., Aug. 10th @ JH Morgan FINALS
6:00pm Championship Game!
----------------------------------------------------------------



Standings
SEBL Standings
City B-East
 1. Summ.Hill BD 9-0 
 2. BC Sixers 5-4 
 3. BC Howren 4-6 
 4. Owen FH 3-6 
 5. Polk Co. 2-7 
City B-West
 1. Metro Tech 9-0 
 2. Cedart.B. II 5-4 
 3. BC Dalton 4-5 
 4. BC Knicks-2 2-8 
 5. Rockmart 1-8 
Metro A-North
 1. Cartersville W. 8-1 
 2. BC Skyline 6-3 
 3. ServPro-1 6-3 
 4. Marietta O. 6-3 
 5. BC Force 4-5 
 6. Supreme 3-6 
 7. BC Celtics 3-6 
 8. Smyrna K. 0-9 
Metro A-South
 1. Speedboys 7-1 
 2. Tri-County 5-3 
 3. BC Lakers 4-5 
 4. Young Gunz 4-5 
 5. Black Monop 4-5 
 6. D.O.T.S. 3-6 


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


Defending champions enter semis in Latvia - by Eurobasket News
Serbia U20 - Latvia U20 97:70

The European U20 reigning champions Serbia continued their title defense with a comprehensive win over hosting Latvia at the end of the Qualifying round yesterday. Serbia tamed the hosts to book their spot in the semifinal. Latvia lost their first game at this stage of the competition and dropped to 2-3 record to play for the 9th spot. Serbia will face Turkey in the semifinal clash tomorrow. Mladen Jeremic (196-G-88, agency: CAA Sports) came up with 21 points for Serbia who were well in control throughout the contest. Milan Macvan (205-F/C-89) was helpful with 17 points and 8 assists, while Boban Marjanovic (221-C-88) had 12 points for the winners. Rihards Kuksiks (197-F-88) responded with 25 points for Latvia. Janis Strelnieks (185-G-89) secured 15 points in defeat. Serbia got to a stunning start to the game as they accounted for first 12 points. They continued to roll confidently and secured a 22:8 lead ten minutes into action. Boban Marjanovic and Mladen Jeremic opened the second quarter with 5 straight points and Serbia led 27:8 at the moment. Latvia however used a 12:3 rally midway through the second frame to get as close as 6 points from Serbia. Stefan Sinovec (195-G-88) crowned the first half with 5 points for Serbia and the Balkan team enjoyed a 46:37 margin at the interval. Mladen Jeremic, Milan Macvan and Raduljica stretched the difference to double digits in the third period and Serbia kept the home team at bay through the rest of the competition. Serbian players outrebounded their opponents 40:28 and committed only 9 turnovers down the stretch. They shot impressive 57% from beyond the arc, while limiting Latvia to just 36% accuracy from the field.

Serbia U20: Mladen Jeremic 21, Milan Macvan 17, Boban Marjanovic 12
Latvia U20: Rihards Kuksiks 25, Janis Strelnieks 15

Nikola Jovanovic moves to Poland - by Dragan Jankovski
Power forward Nikola Jovanovic (205-C-81) agreed terms with Polish team Atlas Stal Ostrow. Jovanovic played last season in Swisslions Takovo demonstrating pretty good performance. For 21 games in Serbian A1 league he averaged 12.8 ppg and 4.4 rpg. His team ended A1 as a top ranked team advancing to the Superleague. Jovanovic had 14 appearances in this competition adding 7.8 ppg and 2.8 rpg while Swisslions finished it on sixth place with score 4-10. Before Swisslions, Jovanovic used to play for Cypriot team Etha Engomis, Ergonom Nis and Masinac Kraljevo. Interesting is that on season 00-01 he participated in the final of European Cup Radivoj Korac with Hemofarm Vrsac.

*****************************************************
  SLOVAKIA   


U20 EC, division B: Slovakia better than Poland in thriller - by Eurobasket News
U20 Poland - U20 Slovak Republic 66-68

Poland was better than Slovakia in the last game of Qualifying Round for 9th to 16th place improving to 1-2 in Group H. However, despite this victory Slovakians didn't succeed to reach the second place which would allow them to battle for ninth position on U20 European Championship division B in Targu Mures. Same thing happened to Poland, which is the last ranked team in Group H.

After almost leveled first stanza, Slovakians took control on Poland in the next one. Peter Dorazil (198-C-89) and Juraj Hasan (199-C-89) led 10-0 run at the beginning of it setting the score on 20-30. Until the half time Slovakians succeeded to stretch their advantage even more. Thanks to Peter Dorazil's basket at the buzzer Slovakia had 27-44 after 20 minutes. After the breather Slovakia touched plus 25, what was its maximum in this game. Dardan Berisha (192-G-88, agency: Global Sports Plaza) and his teammates woke up in the last frame. They created impressive 21-2 run coming on 62-63. It was an unbelievable turn which made this game very exciting until the end. With 27 seconds to go Adam Waczynski (198-F-89) made first but missed the second free throw for 66-67. On the other side Gabriel Unatinsky (180-G-88) also had 50% from the FT line setting the score on 66-68. In the last Poland's possession Hubert Pabian (200-F-89) missed potentially winning three-pointer after what Dardan Berisha grabbed an offensive rebound but he committed turnover immediately after that (ball handling).

Peter Dorazil was the key player for his team in this game adding 17 points and 13 rebounds. Pavol Losonsky (203-F-88) also showed good performance collecting 15 points, 4 boards and 4 assists. Peter Mikulik (185-G-90) contributed with 15 while Juraj Hasan stopped on 13 points and 5 rebounds. Dardan Berisha had the best digits in Poland, 18 points and 5 rebounds. Hubert Pabian was behind him with 13 points and 4 rebounds while Adam Waczynski had 13 points. Slovakia's next opponent in Targu Mures will be Ireland. On the other hand Poland will have to take on Great Britain.


U20 Poland - U20 Slovak Republic 66-68
(17-18, 10-26, 14-17, 25-7)

Poland: Dardan Berisha 18 (5 rebs), Hubert Pabian 13 (4 rebs), Adam Waczynski 13
Slovak Republic: Peter Dorazil 17 (13 rebs), Pavol Losonsky 15 (4 rebs, 4 as), Peter Mikulik 15, Juraj Hasan 13 (5 rebs)

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


Zoran Dragic leads Sloevnia past Georgia in Riga - by Eurobasket News
Slovenia U20 - Georgia U20 91:82 (OT)

Slovenian U20 National Team made a huge step towards securing their spot in Division A of the European Championship for the next year. They earned their second straight win at the Classification round of the European Championship in Latvia to remain on top of Group G. Slovenia outsmarted Georgia today sending their opponents to 0-2 record on the cusp of being relegated to Division B. The game turned into a dramatic battle with both sides throwing all they had for the win. Slovenia were a bit better in the opening term as Mirko Mulalic (195-F-88) gave them a 21:17 lead ten minutes into the encounter. The teams kept it close throughout the second frame before Zoran Dragic (195-G-89) scored 8 points late in the period and allowed Slovenia to enjoy a 44:35 advantage at sides change. Slovenia maintained the gap in the third period and entered the fourth stanza ahead by 8. The margin grew to 11 points midway through the final term and Slovenia seemed well in control. But Levan Shengelia (205-F/C-90) and Matiashvili fueled a desperate comeback effort from Georgia and they surged in front 76:75 with 56 seconds left in regulation. Gaprindashvili gave Georgia a 77:75 lead with 12 seconds left but Slovenia survived. Jakob Virk (201-F/C-89) was fouled and drained both freebies to force extra time. Mirko Mulalic opened the overtime with 5 straight points and Slovenia never looked back en route to a dramatic victory. Zoran Dragic paced Slovenia with 30 points, 8 boards, 6 assists and 4 steals. Mirko Mulalic had 22 points, while Dejan Cigoja (204-F/C-88, agency: Interperformances) added 12 for the winners. Levan Shengelia responded with 25 points and 9 rebounds for Georgia. Beka Tsivtsivadze (189-G-89) secured 15 points in defeat.

Slovenia U20: Zoran Dragic 30, Mirko Mulalic 22, Dejan Cigoja 12
Georgia U20: Levan Shengelia 25, Beka Tsivtsivadze 15

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


Spain shoot down Russia to reach semifinal stage in Latvia - by Eurobasket News
Spain U20 - Russia U20 78:71

Marc Rubio (193-G-88) scored 18 points and grabbed 7 rebounds and Spain held off Russia to qualify for the semifinal stage at the U20 European Championship in Latvia. They will face Lithuania tomorrow. Russia lost all of their three encounters at the Qualifying stage and finished at the bottom of Group F. They will play against Croatia in the semifinal round for 9th spot.
Russia looked good in the first half dominating the game. They opened a 21:13 lead after one quarter of action. Alexey Shved (196-G-88) tipped off the second term with 7 straight points, while Dmitry Golovin (192-G-88) added three more and Russia enjoyed a 31:13 advantage 12 minutes into the game. Spain struggled to take over and trailed by 14 points at the interval. The situation stayed the same in the third stanza as Russia maintained the lead despite all of the Spanish effort. But Spain finally broke through as Xavier Rabaseda (199-G-89) and Marc Rubio teamed up for 12 points early in the fourth term and Spain grabbed a 64:60 advantage. Joaquin Colom (187-G-88) added 4 more points to stretch the margin. Maxim Krivosheev (205-F/C-88) and Alexey Shved cut the deficit but Victor Claver (204-F/C-88) and Joaquin Colom sealed the winning outcome in the dying minutes. Marc Rubio tallied 18 points and 7 boards for Spain. Joaquin Colom had 17 points, while Victor Claver netted 10 in a win. Ilya Syrovatko (193-G-88) and Alexey Shved had 17 points apiece for Russia. Maxim Krivosheev dropped 12 points and collected 9 boards in a losing case.

Spain U20: Marc Rubio 18, Joaquin Colom 17, Victor Claver 10
Russia U20: Ilya Syrovatko 17, Alexey Shved 17

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  SWEDEN   


U20 EC, division B: Macedonians beat Sweden but not enough for the semifinals - by Eurobasket News
U20 Sweden - U20 F.Y.R. of Macedonia 67-75

F.Y.R. of Macedonia succeeded to beat Sweden in the last game of Qualifying Round but it wasn't difference which Macedonians needed at the end. Thus second place in Group E belongs to Sweden, which advanced to the semifinals where it will meet strong Belgium. Macedonia will continue participation at the U20 European Championship division B in Targu Mures fighting for the fifth position.

Few opening minutes belonged to Macedonians. They grabbed quick 0-5 lead against at that time sleepy Sweden. Very soon Christian Koutras (189-G-88) and Jeffery Taylor (200-G/F-89) made 13-9 for their team. Ivica Dimcevski (192-G-89) and Vladimir Brckov (194-G-89) shined for Macedonia at the beginning of the second stanza creating 9-2 run for first double-digit lead, 20-30. Mario Drazic (202-F-89) and his team immediately answered tying the score on 30-30 in juts three minutes. Despite Macedonians had 4 points lead at the half time, Sweden was totally equal rival to them in third frame. The game is decided during the following few minutes when Macedonia through Kiril Nikolovski (210-C-88, agency: Interperformances) and Marjan Janeski (203-F-88) made 11-2 run setting the score on 51-62 with 7:06 to go. Two minutes later Macedonia touched plus 15 but fortunately to Sweden, its players succeeded to come on 67-75 at the end what was enough for the semifinals.

Vladimir Brckov was the key player for F.Y.R. of Macedonia today netting 17 points and grabbing 5 rebounds. Jovan Markovski (198-F-88) followed him scoring 16 points with 4 assists while Kiril Nikolovski collected 13 points and 11 rebounds. Jeffery Taylor was the best scorer for the loosing side adding 21 points. At the same time Jeffery Taylor had 7 more rebounds and 5 assists. Mario Drazic helped his team with 14 points and 9 boards.


U20 Sweden - U20 F.Y.R. of Macedonia 67-75
(18-21, 16-17, 15-13, 18-24)

Sweden: Jeffery Taylor 21 (7 rebs, 5 as), Mario Drazic 14 (9 rebs)
F.Y.R. Macedonia: Vladimir Brckov 17 (5 rebs), Jovan Markovski 16 (4 as), Kiril Nikolovski 13 (11 rebs)

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  SWITZERLAND   


Massagno signs three - by Kristian Santiago
SAM Basket Massagno signed three Americans for the upcoming season:

Guard Brody Angley (180-G-86), who evolved at Santa Clara and scored 11,5 ppg last year while dishing out 5,3 apg in the WCC.

Guard Noah Savage (196-F-86) comes in from academically well-known Princeton to Massagno where he posted 9,9 points in his junior-year.

Forward/Center Rod Flowers (206-C-82, college: Tennessee St.) arrives from the neighbouring country of Austria where he played for the Allianz Swans Gmunden last season where he stayed only a short time and played in only one league game (6 points) and three Uleb-Cup games (4,5 points and 4,5 rebounds per game).

Player movements in the LNA - by Kristian Santiago
Lausanne Morges Basket signed American Shaun Durant (203-C-81, agency: Rasmussen Services, college: Lipscomb) for the upcoming season.The center played the past season in England with the Worcester Wolves and posted 11,3 ppg and 11,2 rpg in the BBL.
Birstal Starwings Basel added Cameroonian Daniel Nyom (201-F-80, college: NW Nazarene) who played the past year in Vevey where he scored 12,1 ppg and pulled 7,3 rpg.
SAV Vacallo Basket brought in Dejan Lukovic (192-G-85) who spent the past season in Lugano.The Serbo-Swiss guard scored 4,7 ppg for the Tigers in '07-'08.
The same team won't be counting on the services of Manuel Raga (199-F-73, college: Cal Poly - SLO), Alan Barattolo (193-G/F-83) and Cesar Leuenberger (201-F-84) in the future while Westher Molteni (192-F-87) left for Lugano.

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  TURKEY   


Turkey enter semifinal stage in Latvia - by Eurobasket News
Turkey U20 - Croatia U20 63:60

Turkish U20 National team was the first squad to enter semifinal stage at the European Championship in Latvia yesterday. They held off Croatian team in a dramatic clash to improve to 4-1 record in the ladder of Group E. Baris Hersek (204-F/C-88) came up with 19 points and 13 boards for Turkey. Croatia opened the game with a 6:0 rally and maintained the lead throughout the opening stanza. However trebles from Ogun Sevinc (198-F/G-88, agency: 1x1 Sports) and Gen early in the second period and Turkey jumped in front. The teams kept it close in the stanza and were all square at 25 at halftime. The lead changed hands for several times early in the third stanza before Baris Hersek, Ogun Sevinc and Azizcan Ozdemir (201-F-88) put Turkey in charge 51:40 late in the frame. Turkish team tipped off the fourth quarter with an 11:4 run to clear off to a 17-point distance. However Croatia refused to surrender. Filip Kruslin (198-G-89) nailed 14 points in just over 3 minutes to carry Croatia within 2 points with 11 seconds remaining. Ogun Sevinc answered with a freebie, while Petani missed a potential tying basket and Turkey got away with the win. Ogun Sevinc finished with 13 points for Turkey. Azizcan Ozdemir added 12 points and 6 boards for the winners. Filip Kruslin nailed 16 points for Croatia. Marino Sarlija (204-F/C-89) had 13 points in defeat.

Turkey U20: Baris Hersek 19+13 boards, Ogun Sevinc 13, Azizcan Ozdemir 12
Croatia U20: Filip Kruslin 16, Marino Sarlija 13

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  UKRAINE   


Ukraine rout Israel to wrap up Qualifying round campaign - by Eurobasket News
Ukraine U20 - Israel U20 84:68

Ukrainian U20 National Team celebrated their first win at the Qualifying round of the European Championship in Latvia. They defeated Israel to occupy the 4th overall spot in Group E. Israel slipped to 0-5 record and remained at the 6th spot in the ladder. Sergiy Gladyr (196-G/F-89) knocked down 23 points to pace Ukraine. Gal Mekel (195-G-88) answered with 17 points for Israel. The teams traded baskets throughout the opening stanza and Ukraine enjoyed a narrow 21:18 advantage at the break. Denys Lukashov (187-G-89), Larin and Tonchenko stretched the margin to 10 points midway through the second term. Israel reacted with a 7:0 rally to trim the distance. Ukraine made another push early in the third frame as Oleksandr Sizov (200-F-88) and Sergiy Gladyr paced the team to a 12:0 run to make it a 52:38 game. Ukraine kept Israel at distance through the rest of the period and entered the fourth term up by 8 points. Vadym Norenko (204-F-88), Oleksandr Sizov and Denys Lukashov kept things rolling for Ukraine in the final quarter and Israel never seriously threatened the margin. Oleksandr Sizov tallied 22 points and 11 boards for Ukraine. Denys Lukashov added 15 points for the winners. Oded Brandwein (188-G-88, agency: Ronsport) contributed 13 points for Israel in defeat. Ukraine outrebounded Israel 46:39 and converted solid 40% from beyond the arc. Ukraine will take on Montenegro in the semifinal round for 5th-8th spots. Israel will face Latvia in the game for 9th-12th places.

Ukraine U20: Sergiy Gladyr 23, Oleksandr Sizov 22+11 boards, Denys Lukashov 15
Israel U20: Gal Mekel 17, Oded Brandwein 13

test - by Alexei Naumov


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  UNITED KINGDOM   


U20 EC, division B: Czechs outplay Great Britain despite Bryan-Amaning's 41 points - by Eurobasket News
U20 Czech Republic - U20 Great Britain 104-93

Czech Republic was better than Great Britain recording the second victory in Classification Round from 9th to 16th place on U20 European Championship division B. Thus Czechs ended competition in Group G on top position with score 3-0 continuing battle for position number nine. On the other side Great Britain is a third ranked team in the same group which will take a part in classification games for 13th place.

Surprisingly but Great Britain had 10 rebounds more than the Czechs today. The British finished it having 18 + 25 while the official host on this game grabbed 15 + 18. It was a game with extremely big number of points. Tomas Macela (179-G-88) at the one and Matthew Bryan-Amaning (206-F-88) at the other side competed who will score the most points today. At the end 'that' award belonged to Matthew Bryan-Amaning. Crucial period of the game was second quarter, which Czech Republic closed 29-16. During the next ten minuets Great Britain made turn 64-65 but before the last frame Czechs created 11-2 run keeping their lead without any problems until the end.

Tomas Macela paced Czech Republic to victory netting 34 points and dishing out 5 assists. Petr Dokoupil (191-G-88) also had wonderful day collecting 28 points and 4 assists while Lukas Palyza (201-F-89) contributed with 12 points and 7 boards. Matthew Bryan-Amaning of Great Britain impressed everyone today. He spent 35 minutes on court draining 41 points and grabbing 11 rebounds. Interesting is that he didn't have any attempt from behind the arc in this game. Ashley Hamilton (201-F-88) was a far away behind Matthew Bryan-Amaning collecting 18 points and 5 rebounds.


U20 Czech Republic - U20 Great Britain 104-93
(28-25, 29-16, 18-26, 29-26)

Czech Republic: Tomas Macela 34 (5 as), Petr Dokoupil 28 (4 as), Lukas Palyza 12 (7 rebs)
Great Britain: Matthew Bryan-Amaning 41 (11 rebs), Ashley Hamilton 18 (5 rebs)

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  URUGUAY   


Aguada 1-0 for the promotion to the LUB - by Hector Lopez
Aguada beat Nacional 75-71 to take a 1-0 lead in the best of three final games for a promotion to the Uruguayan League 2009. For Aguada, Wendell Gibson (201-F/C-83, college: Hofstra) scored 12 points, after playign the full game and grabbed 10 rebounds, while Jose Mackiewicz (201-F/C-79) netted 18. For Nacional Gonzalo Meira (192-F-88) scored 23 and Marcelo Correa (208-C-77, college: San Diego St.) netted 12, took 12 rebounds and put 3 blocks. The second game will be played on Saturday 9.



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Women News

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  AUSTRALIA - Women  


Aneka Kerr to return for Fire - by Eurobasket News
Townsville Fire have received an added bonus for the 2008/09 WNBL season with New Zealand captain Aneka Kerr (183-F-81) signing with the club.

Kerr hopes to add a WNBL championship victory to her bulging basketball resume and believes the Fire has what it takes.

There is a good group of players and I think they have the potential to make it into the finals,'' Kerr said.

With Jennifer Crouse in there and (Rohanee) Cox, who is also going to the Olympics, they were a big drawcard for me.

They also signed Rachael Flanagan, who I've played with before and I definitely rate her as a great point guard.

The rest of them have come back from college so there is a lot of depth in the team.''

Townsville will be familiar territory for the former Christchurch player who played for the Fire from 2002 through to 2006.

But as well as the talented roster, another draw for Townsville for Kerr was the fact her fiance is based in the region.

He's a big reason I wanted to come back to Townsville so I can stay here with him,'' Kerr said.

Injury has been an issue for the veteran after undergoing two reconstructions on her left knee over the past two seasons.

However, Kerr was confident her injury concerns were behind her as she looked to complete her Olympics and WNBL campaigns.

I'm feeling fine at the moment, touch wood,'' Kerr said. My knee has been holding up really well at training.''

The 27-year-old's experience speaks for itself and was why coach Peter Buckle was keen to get her to put pen to paper at the club.

For nearly a decade Kerr has represented New Zealand and this year she was rewarded for her longevity by being named as captain of the national side.

Beijing will be Kerr's second Olympic Games appearance.

Kerr, who is a dual citizen of New Zealand and Australia, will join the Olympic camp on July 30 and return to Townsville for the Fire directly after.

Townsville Basketball general manager Tony Wade said Kerr was a big signing.

The combination of her, Tanya Smith and Jennifer Crouse will be outstanding,'' Wade said. Once Aneka heard about the squad she was really keen to sign.

She has her fiance here and a stable job so she's looking forward to getting here. She has played for the Fire before but in a different system but I think the important thing to her was the squad.''

Courtesy of www.wnbl.com

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  BELARUS - Women  


Russia grab the first win in Katowice - by Eurobasket News
Russia U16 - Belarus U16 68:45

Russian U16 National Team got to a confident start at the European Championship in Poland. Today they opened their campaign with an overwhelming victory over Belarus. Thus Russia grabbed the initial lead in preliminary Group D. Belarus got to a slightly better start as Flicnhyk knocked down 9 points in the first frame to lift them to a 14:12 lead. Efimova and Yana Matveeva (182-F-92) however quickly denied the deficit and put Russia in charge in the second stanza. The teams traded baskets throughout the rest of the term and Russia secured a 24:27 lead at halftime. Yana Matveeva, Stepanova and Efimova stretched the margin to 14 points midway through the third period. Russia completed their 18:2 run to enter the fourth term up by 21 points. Belarus never seriously threaten the lead and suffered their first defeat at the tournament. Yana Matveeva paced Russia with 17 points and 10 boards. Stepanova had 14 points and 12 boards, while Barbashina added 9 points for the winners. Maryia Filonchyk (187-F-92) had 21 points and 10 rebounds for Belarus. Musatava contributed 8 points and 7 rebounds in defeat.

Russia U16: Yana Matveeva 17+10 boards, Stepanova 14+12 boards, Barbashina 9
Belarus U16: Maryia Filonchyk 21+10 boards, Musatava 8

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  BRAZIL - Women  


Brazil narrowly edge New Zealand before the start of Olympic tournament - by Eurobasket News
Brazil - New Zealand 76:74

Brazilian National Team scored a moral-boosting victory over New Zealand just a day prior to the start of the Olympic Games tournament in China. Brazil dominated in the first half but nearly wasted all of their 23-point second half advantage to pull away with a narrow win at the end. The South American team outgunned their opponents 28:14 in the starting period to set up a comfortable advantage. Brazil continued their physical style of play to extend the margin to 18 points at the interval. Brazil kept rolling confidently in the third frame and stretched the margin to as many as 23 points. The teams entered the fourth quarter with Brazil leading by 22 points. It seemed the Latin American powerhouse would cruise to the overall victory at the end but the Tall Ferns refused to surrender. They shocked Brazil with an impressive 31:11 rally to trim the distance to minimum. However the Kiwis simply ran out of time to succeed at the end. Jucimara Dantas (192-C-78) nailed 11 points to pace Brazil. Adriana Pinto (170-G-78), Karla da Costa (173-G-78) and Claudia Das Neves (172-G-75) had 9 points apiece in a win. Jillian Harmon (185-F-87) answered with 16 points for New Zealand. Lisa Wallbutton (183-F-86) delivered 15 points in a losing case. New Zealand tips off their Olympic campaign against Mali tomorrow. Brazil will take on South Korea tomorrow.

Brazil: Jucimara Dantas 11, Adriana Pinto 9, Karla da Costa 9, Claudia Das Neves 9
New Zealand: Jillian Harmon 16, Lisa Wallbutton 15

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  GERMANY - Women  


Second win for U18 at European Championship Div. B - by Cornelius Damm
The young Germans stayed flawless in their second game during the U18 European Championship Division B. Facing Austria the Germans struggled in an only moderate first half leading 27-26 after a three pointer from Pia Mankertz (170-G-90) in the final seconds before the break. But overall poor shooting stayed the main reason why the Germans could not take over in third quarter despite controlling the boards (rebounds 52-33). A lot of missed free throws (only 8/22) did not help either. Due to the permanent aggressive defense the Germans were eventually able to break away in the last period which ended up in a 62-47 victory. Head coach Reiner Chromik called it an expected win the team had to fight for more than necessary. Inside player Leonie Bleker did a good job underneath the basket adding twelve rebounds to her nine points she scored but converting only one out of six free throws. Emina Karic grabed six offensive boards and ten overall while guard Svenja Brunckhorst of German Women Champion TSV Wasserburg helped her team with a good all aorund game grabbing eight defensive rebounds, adding nine points, dishing out six assists and stealing the ball three times. Pia Mankertz and Jenny Menz top scored with 14 and 11 points.

Emina Karic (Herner TC, 5), Jenny Menz (TuS Jena, 11), Pia Mankertz (SC Alstertal-Langenhorn/SC Rist Wedel, 14), Leonie Bleker (RC Borken/NB Oberhausen, 9), Stephanie Wagner (TV Langen, 4), Carolin Riehle (USC Freiburg), Svenja Brunckhorst (TSV Wasserburg, 9), Mara Greunke (TV Langen, 11), Franziska Steiner (TS Jahn Mnchen, dnp.), Danina Skrobek (ETB SW Essen), Carlina Haas (TS Jahn Mnchen, dnp.) und Stephanie Eitel (BSG Ludwigsburg, dnp.)

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  LITHUANIA - Women  


Turkey hold off Lithuania in U16 European Championship opener - by Eurobasket News
Turkey U16 - Lithuania U16 66:59

Turkish U16 National Team got to a winning start of their European Championship campaign. They toppled Lithuanian counterparts to score the initial victory in preliminary Group A. Three-pointers from Ozturk and Pelin Gulbag (170-G-92) put Turkey in front 6:3 early in the encounter. Pelin Gulbag completed her 9-point tally in the first term and Turkey built a 27:7 advantage into the second stanza. Turkey maintained the margin and only 6 straight points late in the second frame allowed Lithuania to trim it to 16 at halftime. Morkunaite scored 7 points early in the third frame and Lithuania gradually cut the distance to 9 points. Morkunaite later hit back-to-back trebles as Baltic team came as close as 4 points from Turkey. Ozturk and Emel Guler (187-F-92) iced Lithuanian effort with jumpers and Turkey stayed away. Grigalauskyte dragged Lithuania within 6 points from their opponents late in the game but Turkey withstood the effort. Cakir connected from beyond the arc and silenced Lithuania. Ozturk, Pelin Gulbag and Emel Guler notched 10 points apiece for Turkey. Cora and Cakir had 9 points each in a win. Grigauskyte answered with game-high 26 points and 15 boards for Lithuania. Morkunaite dropped 13 points in a losing effort. Lithuania enjoyed an advantage on the boards but converted only 29% from the field and committed 20 turnovers down the stretch.

Turkey U16: Ozturk 10, Pelin Gulbag 10, Emel Guler 10
Lithuania U16: Grigauskyte 26+15 boards, Morkunaite 13

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  NEW ZEALAND - Women  


Brazil narrowly edge New Zealand before the start of Olympic tournament - by Eurobasket News
Brazil - New Zealand 76:74

Brazilian National Team scored a moral-boosting victory over New Zealand just a day prior to the start of the Olympic Games tournament in China. Brazil dominated in the first half but nearly wasted all of their 23-point second half advantage to pull away with a narrow win at the end. The South American team outgunned their opponents 28:14 in the starting period to set up a comfortable advantage. Brazil continued their physical style of play to extend the margin to 18 points at the interval. Brazil kept rolling confidently in the third frame and stretched the margin to as many as 23 points. The teams entered the fourth quarter with Brazil leading by 22 points. It seemed the Latin American powerhouse would cruise to the overall victory at the end but the Tall Ferns refused to surrender. They shocked Brazil with an impressive 31:11 rally to trim the distance to minimum. However the Kiwis simply ran out of time to succeed at the end. Jucimara Dantas (192-C-78) nailed 11 points to pace Brazil. Adriana Pinto (170-G-78), Karla da Costa (173-G-78) and Claudia Das Neves (172-G-75) had 9 points apiece in a win. Jillian Harmon (185-F-87) answered with 16 points for New Zealand. Lisa Wallbutton (183-F-86) delivered 15 points in a losing case. New Zealand tips off their Olympic campaign against Mali tomorrow. Brazil will take on South Korea tomorrow.

Brazil: Jucimara Dantas 11, Adriana Pinto 9, Karla da Costa 9, Claudia Das Neves 9
New Zealand: Jillian Harmon 16, Lisa Wallbutton 15

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  RUSSIA - Women  


Russia grab the first win in Katowice - by Eurobasket News
Russia U16 - Belarus U16 68:45

Russian U16 National Team got to a confident start at the European Championship in Poland. Today they opened their campaign with an overwhelming victory over Belarus. Thus Russia grabbed the initial lead in preliminary Group D. Belarus got to a slightly better start as Flicnhyk knocked down 9 points in the first frame to lift them to a 14:12 lead. Efimova and Yana Matveeva (182-F-92) however quickly denied the deficit and put Russia in charge in the second stanza. The teams traded baskets throughout the rest of the term and Russia secured a 24:27 lead at halftime. Yana Matveeva, Stepanova and Efimova stretched the margin to 14 points midway through the third period. Russia completed their 18:2 run to enter the fourth term up by 21 points. Belarus never seriously threaten the lead and suffered their first defeat at the tournament. Yana Matveeva paced Russia with 17 points and 10 boards. Stepanova had 14 points and 12 boards, while Barbashina added 9 points for the winners. Maryia Filonchyk (187-F-92) had 21 points and 10 rebounds for Belarus. Musatava contributed 8 points and 7 rebounds in defeat.

Russia U16: Yana Matveeva 17+10 boards, Stepanova 14+12 boards, Barbashina 9
Belarus U16: Maryia Filonchyk 21+10 boards, Musatava 8

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  SERBIA - Women  


Roster of Serbian U16 National Team - by Dragan Jankovski

Serbian U16 National Team is ready for the U16 European Championship in Katowice. Serbia is placed in Preliminary Group C together with Poland, Italy and Hungary. At the opening day of the championship, which is today, Serbia will meet Italy. Its next rival will be Hungary and later the host Poland. Three best teams from each group will advance to the Qualifying Round. Three teams from Group C will mix with three teams from Group D, where Russia, Belarus, Germany and Spain are. Fourth ranked teams from Preliminary Groups will continue championship in Classifications Rounds.

Head coach of Serbian U16 National Team Zoran Kovacic is not a big optimist before the beginning of the championship.

'For the first time ever we are going to one important event without thinking about the medal. Group C is the tough one. Our first rival is at the same time the strongest team in our group. Let go on, Poland is very inconvenient team which posses many qualities and of course the Poles are the hosts of this championship. Our target is to beat Hungary in order to get through the Preliminary Round. We have to go step by step. Our main target is to reach one of first three places in our group. It means that we will automatically avoid relegation games' - said Zoran Kovacic.


Roster of Serbian U16 National Team
Natasa Kovacevic of Partizan
Jelena Stulic of Sivac
Emilija Stojanovic of Student 1957
Danica Dragicevic of Korac
Tamara Rajic of Sivac
Kaja Stankovic of Korac
Jelena Repic of Loznica
Isidora Madzarevic of Vojvodina
Ivana Brajkovic of Crvena Zvezda
Jovana Karakasevic of Vojvodina
Snezana Colic (captain) of Korac
Nevena Radojevic of Tent

Head coach: Zoran Kovacic

Assistant coach: Predrag Crnogorcic

Assistant coach: Goran Radovanovic



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  TURKEY - Women  


Turkey hold off Lithuania in U16 European Championship opener - by Eurobasket News
Turkey U16 - Lithuania U16 66:59

Turkish U16 National Team got to a winning start of their European Championship campaign. They toppled Lithuanian counterparts to score the initial victory in preliminary Group A. Three-pointers from Ozturk and Pelin Gulbag (170-G-92) put Turkey in front 6:3 early in the encounter. Pelin Gulbag completed her 9-point tally in the first term and Turkey built a 27:7 advantage into the second stanza. Turkey maintained the margin and only 6 straight points late in the second frame allowed Lithuania to trim it to 16 at halftime. Morkunaite scored 7 points early in the third frame and Lithuania gradually cut the distance to 9 points. Morkunaite later hit back-to-back trebles as Baltic team came as close as 4 points from Turkey. Ozturk and Emel Guler (187-F-92) iced Lithuanian effort with jumpers and Turkey stayed away. Grigalauskyte dragged Lithuania within 6 points from their opponents late in the game but Turkey withstood the effort. Cakir connected from beyond the arc and silenced Lithuania. Ozturk, Pelin Gulbag and Emel Guler notched 10 points apiece for Turkey. Cora and Cakir had 9 points each in a win. Grigauskyte answered with game-high 26 points and 15 boards for Lithuania. Morkunaite dropped 13 points in a losing effort. Lithuania enjoyed an advantage on the boards but converted only 29% from the field and committed 20 turnovers down the stretch.

Turkey U16: Ozturk 10, Pelin Gulbag 10, Emel Guler 10
Lithuania U16: Grigauskyte 26+15 boards, Morkunaite 13

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  WNBA - Women  


Monarchs forward Rebekkah Brunson undergoes successful surgery - by Eurobasket News
Sacramento Monarchs today announced forward Rebekkah Brunson (6'3''-F/C-81, agency: LBM Management, college: Georgetown) underwent successful surgery this morning to repair a lateral meniscus tear in her right knee. Monarchs Team Doctor, Kirk Lewis, performed the surgery. Brunson will begin rehabilitation immediately and once cleared, she will resume her training and conditioning. It is projected that Brunson will be out four to six weeks; a complete recovery is expected.

Brunson, a 2007 All-Star selection and a starter for the Monarchs, initially was diagnosed on July 10 of this year and has been playing with the injury until recently. Through 27 games of the 2008 season, Brunson is averaging 11.2 points, 7.2 rebounds, 0.4 assists, 1.2 steals, 0.6 blocks and 26.2 minutes per game.

Currently in her fifth season with Sacramento, Brunson has played in 162 games (87 starts) and has career averages of 8.2 points, 6.1 rebounds, 0.5 assists, 0.9 steals and 0.5 blocks per game.

The WNBA is currently in the midst of an Olympic break from July 28-Aug. 23, 2008, to allow for WNBA players to compete for their respective National Teams at the 2008 Summer Olympics. Currently, all members of the Sacramento Monarchs not participating in the 2008 Summer Olympics are in Sacramento and will take part in various activities during the break.

Courtesy of Sacramento Monarchs