EUROBASKET NEWS REPORT - 9/13/2008

Copyright © 1997-2008 Eurobasket
WARNING:
Do not copy, redistribute, publish or otherwise exploit information that you download from the site!
Do not encumber, license, modify, publish, sell, transfer or transmit, or in any way exploit, any of the
content of the report, nor will you attempt to do so.
More info:www.eurobasket.com


Men News

*****************************************************
  ARGENTINA   


Argentinian Cup 2008: end of first stage - by Facundo Iatzky
Afer 6 rounds the first stage has finished. The eight winners of each group will face each other in Quarterfinals. The biggest surprise was in the group 4, where San Martin Corrientes ( only one team that advanced to quarterfinals) eliminated Regatas Corrientes, defending champion. In the rest of the groups, candidates teams could advance withput problems. These are the quarterfinals draw:
Atenas - Libertad
Quilmsa - San Martn (Corrientes)
Obras - Boca
Penarol - Gimnasia

all games are to the best of 3 games and the winners will play the final four in Bahia Blanca.

MOVEMENTS IN THE ARGENTINE LEAGUE - by Bruno Fontana
Quimes of Mar del Plata (LEAGUE A) incorporated to the Tiras Jamaal Wade (1/2). The player recently played in Spain (LEB oro) for the Lecho Rio Breogan -7,3 points, (45 % 2p, 40 % 3p and 68 % 1ps), 2,7 reb, 0,7 as and 16,4 min. -. It is the reemplazante of the Canadian Duane John (198-F-81, agency: Chris Pearson SM, college: Oklahoma City).
Central Entrerriano (TNA) decided to bring Perrin Johnson (196-G-84, agency: 22ft, college: Louisville) instead of Kwan Johnson. It is an escolta of 23 years and 1,96 mts. of height, formed in the college Claremont and in Louisville's university.
Belgrano of San Nicolas decided to contract Ollie Bailey (201-F-85, college: Oklahoma City), it is forward, is 23 years old, measures 2,01 meters and comes of playing in Switzerland.

*****************************************************
  BRAZIL   


Brazil, S. Africa advance with classification wins in wheelchair basketball - by Eurobasket News
Brazil and South Africa notched wins in the Paralympic men's wheelchair basketball classification games for places 9-12 on Friday at the National Indoor Stadium.

The winners will compete for 9th and 10th place on Tuesday at the National Indoor Stadium.

Brazilian centre Jose Marcos Silva and three of his teammates combined for 59 of their team's 75-56 victory over Sweden, including 48 points in the paint, 20 second chance points and 20 points from Sweden's 17 turnovers.

'We don't feel tired to compete continuously. We are here just to compete, and before the competitions we trained a lot, so we have adapted to the pace of the game. Although yesterday evening we just competed with China, this morning we are ready again,' said Everaldo Lima, Brazilian guard.

'We both did defence and offence well. Today we strengthened our defence, and good offence is the result of this.

'We got the good positions under the basket and had good defence, so we could get most of the rebounds.'

'We used to set our goal as getting into the top eight, but now, since it's impossible, we will just try to get the best ranking we can,' added he.

Swedish forward Peter Kohlstrom tied Silva as the game's highest scorer with 20 points, but no other Swedish player scored more than eight points.

South Africa overpowered China 67-60, stealing the ball 15 times and scoring 20 points from China's 20 turnovers.

S. African forward Richard Nortje was the game's highest scorer with 22 points.

'We came into this game a bit slow, but we put it together in the second half. We let them (China) have the first half, and that's why they came out fighting the way they did. If we had closed the game down in the first half, there would have been a lot less pressure on us in the second half,' said Nortje.

On the upcoming ninth-place game against Brazil, Nortje said: 'We gave the game to Japan (on Thursday), so we are looking to not make the same mistakes again.'

'We want to finish as strong as we can. Overall, this tournament is a much better achievement than any previous South African team has done before. All in all, it's been a good tournament.'

Chinese centre Ding Hai scored 20 points, but the Chinese team missed four of their last five shots in the fourth quarter to prevent a closer finish.

Sweden and China will compete for 11th and 12th place on Sunday.

Courtesy of http://english.people.com.cn/

*****************************************************
  CBA   


Sherone Edwards adds international touch to EK Miners free agent camp - by Eurobasket News
Less than a month after the conclusion of the 2008 Olympics, East Kentucky Miners head coach Kevin Keathley had an opportunity to evaluate some international talent up close as Canadian Sherone Edwards visited Eastern Kentucky. Edwards was one of the 26 participants in the East Kentucky Miners free agent camp held Saturday, Sept. 6 at the East Kentucky Expo Center. Edwards, a 6-4 shooting guard/small forward from Ontario, displayed his athleticism throughout the free agent camp.
'Sherone Edwards is quite an athlete,' said Keathley. 'I was impressed with his athleticism and the way he handled himself.'

Edwards played his college basketball at the University of Prince Edward Island (UPEI). In 26 games during the 2005-06 season, Edwards averaged 21.7 points. 7.5 rebounds and 3.0 assists per game. He hit 53.2-percent of his shots from the floor during the 21.7 points per game campaign. During that same season, Edwards shot 33.3-percent from behind the three-point line.

Edwards earned the following honors during his college career: All-Canadian CIS First Team (2005); Canadian University All-Star Game selection(2006); Atlantic Division First Team (2006); CIS All-Canadian Second Team (2006).

The East Kentucky Miners professional basketball organization is gearing up for the 2008 CBA Draft on Tuesday, Sept. 23.

Note: This is the fifth and final installment of a series on the East Kentucky Miners free agent camp.

Courtesy of CBA (East Kentucky Miners)

*****************************************************
  COLOMBIA   


Piratas releases Skinner, inks Patrick Culver - by Victor Garcia
Piratas de Bogota after loss its first four games at home this season, decides to release Marcus Skinner and inked 610' center Patrick Culver, Culver 24 years old played last season at San Andres with the former Soles and lead the team in rebounding, helping also in scoring.
Culver have experience in Liceo de Costa Rica playing the Centro-American championship averaging 14 PPG and 6 RPG, Piratas needs Culvers help in ofense, the team will face tonight Bucaros in Bucaramanga.Patrick Culver (208-C-84, college: Texas A&M)

*****************************************************
  CROATIA   


Friendly games - by Eurobasket News
A1 team Dubrovnik outplayed A2 team Kastel in a friendly 79-72. The game was played last night and it was one of the first for both teams. Dubrovnk took it but according to its head coach Darko Kunce, final score wasn't the priority. However, Kastel succeeded to resist against Dubrovnik staying in the game almost the entire time. At the half time Dubrovnik had plus 3 later finishing third quarter 18-17. Thanks to bigger experience of its player, Dubrovnik celebrated ending last frame 21-18. Dubrovnik won in this friendly mostly owing to Maro Lucic (202-C-80), who drained 17 points. Jure Skific (202-F/C-88) also was good with 14 points while Ljubo Prgomet (195-G/F-84) and Marko Radic (188-G-89) had 11 points each. Other scorers for Dubrovnik were Marijo Hajdic (204-F/C-89) 10, Peric 6, Ostric 5, Habul 2. It was the first senior game for youngsters Mario Hezonja and Demeniko Hajdic, who succeeded to score 2 points. Dubrovnik played this game without Karac and Vranjes.

In the meantime Marko Tomas (200-G-85) and his Real Madrid played a friendly against Mallorca. Tomas helped his team to victory 90-78 scoring 9 points.

Mario Stojic (198-G/F-80, agency: Interperformances), Marino Bazdaric (197-G/F-78) and their Vive Menorca suffered defeat against Ukrainian Donetsk 79-91. Stojic had 3 points while Bazdaric drained 13 (ten in third frame).

Cibona and Barcelona in the final of tournament in Giessen - by Eurobasket News
Cibona Zagreb played its first friendly game of the pre-season. It was opening day of international tournament in Giessen, where Davor Kus (190-G-78) and his teammates were better than Banvit 87-80. The bad thing for Cibona is injury of Vedran Vukusic (203-F-82, college: Northwestern), which happened at the early beginning. Croatian team was on a good level despite it was just the first game. Banvit already played few friendlies during the last 15 days so Cibona's head coach Velimir Perasovic has reason to be satisfied so far. Turkish players couldn't find a solution how to stop Davor Kus and Earl Calloway (190-G-83, college: Indiana). They had many killing penetrations as well and successful shots making big difficulties to Banvit's guards. Davor Kus, who will play this season in CIbona on loan from Unicaja Malaga, was the best player for the wining team with 23 points. American point guard Earl Calloway also was great collecting 20 points and 4 assists. It is important to be mentioned that Cibona plays this tournament without Damir Markota (209-C/F-85), who is still recovering from injury.

In the other game Barcelona was better than Giessen 46ers 91-69. Ex NBAer Juan Carlos Navarro (192-G-80) paced Barca to win with 14 points, Vasquez had 12 while Roger Grimau (196-G-79) followed with 11 points. Other scorers for Barca were Barrett 10, Jaka Lakovic (186-G-78) 8, David Andersen (212-C-80) 8 and Lubos Barton (200-F/G-80, college: Valparaiso) 8.

Cibona will meet Barca in the final, which is scheduled for today ay 16h.

*****************************************************
  D.R. CONGO   


Canons face Sadolin in FUBA league - by Eurobasket News
Thursday (schedule): Basketball league
Men
Miracle v KIU
Power v Canons

Ladies
Amazon v A1

Results:
Men
Lions 53 C. High 49

Ladies
A1 98 C. High 32
Canons 75 Cubs 46

IT will be second against third in the mens MTN-FUBA basketball league when the UCU Canons take on Sadolin Power at Lugogo Indoor Stadium tonight.

The Canons have slighlty erased a poor first round by winning their first two matches after the recess to move up to second place in the standings.

Power on the other hand sit in third position, one point behind the Canons, although have played a game less than their Mukono-based University rivals.

Victory will take Power level on 19 points with the Canons. Kyambogo Warriors lead the annual competition with 21 points.

Courtesy of http://www.newvision.co.ug/

*****************************************************
  D-LEAGUE   


Wendell Alexis named Toros assistant coach - by Eurobasket News
The San Antonio Spurs today announced the hiring of Wendell Alexis (6'9''-F-64, college: Syracuse) as the Austin Toros new assistant coach. Alexis replaces Roy Rogers who recently joined the New Jersey Nets staff.

Alexis comes to the Toros from an assistant coaching position with the New Jersey Institute of Technology (NJIT). Alexis was the team's interim head coach last season, after Head Coach Jim Casciano had to leave the team.

Alexis played overseas for 20 seasons. He won multiple league Most Valuable Player awards including an MVP in the first division of the Italian league in 1993, MVP in the championship tournament for the Israeli league team Maccabi Tel Aviv in 93-94 and three MVP awards while playing for ALBA Berlin of the German Bundesliga from1996-2002.

After a very successful professional career, Alexis has spent the last four seasons coaching. Prior to his three year stay with NJIT, Coach Alexis was an assistant at St. Joseph High School in Metuchen, NJ and head coach of the MSU Skyliners 16 and under AAU team.

The Toros open the season Friday, November 28th against the Utah Flash at the Austin Convention Center. For season and group ticket information, call the office at (512)236-8333 or visit austintoros.com.

Courtesy of www.oursportscentral.com

*****************************************************
  DOMINICAN REPUBLIC   


Dominicans Abroad: Jack Michael Martinez made his waited debut in LNBP - by Jordan Olivo
The Dominican Jack Michael Martinez (203-F/C-81, agency: Paris Global Sports) (203-F/C-81, agency: Paris Global Sports) made his waited debut in Veracruz with the team Halcones Rojos de Veracruz in the National Basketball Professional League (LNBP).

Martinez ended with a double-double in his team's victory by 72 to 74 before Bucaneros de Campeche, to strip the undefeated Campeche and in the middle of the season opening in Veracruz.

Jack Michael made 11 points, 11 rebounds, 3 assists and 4 turnovers in 34 minutes that was in court. Shooting of 5-14 from the field (36%) and 2-1 from free throws (50%).

SOLANO AND DILONE MAINTAINS UNBEATEN

The team Bravos de Piedras Negras, directed by the Dominican coach Jose Dilone , began their games in the road and her first stop was in Durango on Thursday and defeated 85 to 88 Lobos Grises UAD de Durango.

The Dominican Julio Solano (202-F/C-76) ended with a double-double with 16 points, 10 rebounds, 3 assists, 1 turnover and 3 steals.

Solano threw for 8-18 from the field (44%) in 36 minutes was in court.

GUZMAN IN GREAT PERFORMANCE

The team Soles de Mexicali maintained its unbeaten by defeating 73 to 82 Algodoneros de Torreon on Thursday in Mexicali.

The Dominican Manuel Guzman (203-F-82, college: Bemidji St.) was the highest scorer for the Algodoneros to finish with 18 points in 28 minutes. Guzman threw for 8-15 from the field (53%) and 2-2 in free throws (100%). The Dominican added 9 rebounds and 1 turnover.

*****************************************************
  EUROBASKET SUMMER LEAGUE   


Pele Paelay - The Co-MVP of the ESL in Las Vegas signs with STB Le Havre - by Darryl Reshaw

Pele Paelay (193-G-84, college: Co.Carolina) (193-G-84, college: Co.Carolina) (193-G-84, college: Co.Carolina) the talented combo guard who was the Co-MVP of the Eurobasket Summer League in Las Vegas signed with STB Le Havre in Pro A France.


This summer at the ESL in Las Vegas Pele showcased his unique game as his team won the ESL championship.
Pele is a superb athlete with sensational scoring skills and a 38 inch vertical jump; he is great at creating off the dribble and getting to the basket.
He also has a nice perimeter jump shot and this summer he was totally unstoppable as he scored from every aspect on the court including some nice dunks.
He can also play the point guard position because he has nice ball handling skills.
He impressed many of the scouts at the ESL event in Las Vegas with his intensity and positive energy.
Pele Paelay is a dual citizen of Liberia and the United States which qualifies him as a Bosman C player which is beneficial in the French League.
In the 2007-08 season Pele averaged 16ppg & 4rpg while shooting 53% from the FG and 36% from the 3pt for the Great Falls Explorers in the CBA.
In the 2004-05 season Pele was named Big South Player of the Year while at Costal Carolina and the following season he made the Big South All Conference 2nd Team.
In high school Pele won a basketball state championship in Maryland but was a better soccer player where he was named the State's 'Player of the Year' in Maryland.
Pele as a child learned to play soccer in Liberia but his family moved to the USA and he fell in love with basketball.
He had options to play soccer at all the top programs in the NCAA but opted to focus on playing basketball in college because he loved the big crowds and the excitement of the game.
Pele Paelay is a very talented basketball player and we expect him to have a great career in European basketball with France being his first stop.




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


BasCats pick up Bennett - by Moritz Korff
The Cuxhaven BasCats (2. Bundesliga Pro A) announced the agreement with a sixth American today. Frank Bennett (200-F-82, college: Georgia Southern) joins the team and will fill the four spot. The 26-year-old from Pompano Beach, Florida spent the past two years in Switzerland and played for the Geneve Devils in the LNA. He appeared in 22 games for the Devils in this past season, producing 10.2 points and 5.4 rebounds per contest. From 2004 to 2006 Bennett played in the British Basketball League and won the UK-championship with the Newcastle Eagles in 2005.

Standings - ProA
ProA Standings
 1. Bayreuth 0-0 
 2. Heidelberg 0-0 
 3. B.Muenchen 0-0 
 4. Karlsruhe 0-0 
 5. MBC 0-0 
 6. Langen 0-0 
 7. Lich 0-0 
 8. Schalke 0-0 
 9. Essen 0-0 
 10. Jena 0-0 
 11. Chemnitz 0-0 
 12. Hagen 0-0 
 13. Bremen 0-0 
 14. Kirchheim 0-0 
 15. K-lautern 0-0 
 16. Cuxhaven 0-0 
 17. Speyer 0-0 


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


Grays in Ilysiakos and Nystrom in Keravnos Aigiou - by Chris Mammides
Two transfers took place earlier today as Ilysiakos agreed financial terms with the Iris Power Forward Conor Grace (205-F-82, college: Davidson) who played in the Italian, French and Finnish leagues the previous years while he played in the NCAA for 4 years with the jersey of Davinson. Coach Giorgos Zeygolis is adding power under the baskets and freshness in the position 4.
On the other hand, Keravnos Aigiou after the Spanish center Alfonso Ford, Coach Giannis Chrysanthopoulos and his management agreed terms with the Swedish player Jim Nystrom (194-G/F-82, college: Georgia Tech)

*****************************************************
  GUATEMALA   


Another win for Elite Sport - by Gianni Pascucci
Elite Sport Pollo Rey defeated Creaciones RL 91-89 in the last round of Liga Metropolitana 2008 - Clausura. The partial scores were 23-15, 26-25, 09-29 and 31-22. Another time more, Oscar Rivera (186-G-80) topped all the scorers at 34 points, and newly acquired Guillermo Noack (190-F-79) added 19 points at the winning side. Joaquin Ortiz (180-G-78) and Miguel Gonzalez were the best in Creaciones RL, with 21 and 15 points, respectively.

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


FEB Team-By-Team Analysis: West-Brabant Giants Bergen-Op-Zoom - by Sanders Jackson


West-Brabant Giants Bergen-Op-Zoom

2007-08 Record: 27-13 (lost in FEB semifinals)

Head coach: Erik Braal

Additions: Durelle Brown (202-F-79, agency: Interperformances, college: Manhattan), Brandon Griffin (203-F-82, agency: R.H.Consultancy, college: SE Missouri St.), Carlos Taylor (185-G-86), Bas Hogetoorn (210-C-89), Aaron Johnson (203-F-83, college: N.Mexico)


Outlook:


West-Brabant Giants made strides in their first season with Braal in charge, with some tough losses in the FEB semis vs. Eiffel Towers. Braal's teams are known for playing tough defense and good ball control on offense, to the tune of last season's team shooting a respectable 50.1% FG and holding their opponents to 43.6% FG.West-Brabant Giants also were strong on the glass, outrebounding their opponents with a +6.4 difference. The person who had a big influence in the rebounding numbers, Devonne Giles, has moved on to rival Eiffel Towers and has been replaced by Griffin, who is very much capable of picking up the slack. Braal has the PG position in good hands with Patrick Pope (183-G-81, college: St.Augustine), who is the straw that serves the drink for West-Brabant. Pope averaged 15.0 ppg, 4.4 apg and led the FEB with 85.9% FT shooting. Tim Blue (206-F-84, college: Middle Tenn.St.) also returns to the Giants and gives opponents matchup problems with his ability to play inside and out. Dutch international Arvin Slagter (190-G-85) is one of the best X-factors in the league and an excellent defender and passer.


For West-Brabant Giants to make the higher step and reach the EJMG Amsterdam-Eiffel Towers echelon, their bench production must step up, as they were exposed in the Eiffel series, in which Eiffel's starters managed to match the scoring production of West-Brabant's starters in much lesser minutes. Consistent perimeter shooting is a must to keep teams from packing in on their inside threats, as well as Pope not having to be forced to do too much. West-Brabant Giants will be put to the test early, with their first two games vs. defending champion EJMG Amsterdam and nemesis Eiffel Towers.


Next: Hanzevast Capitals



*****************************************************
  HUNGARY   


Pre-season games - by Tamas Deri
The teams our first divison just started to play the first pre-season games and test a lot of foreigners, who are still on tryout.
Eurobasket Hungary watched the game between Szolnok and Kecskemet in Kunszentmarton and made a great choice. Both teams played only with two foreigners, but Jerome Coleman (185-G-81, agency: CAA Sports, college: Rutgers) and Dusan Jelic (211-C-74) already showed that there will be probably the key players of their team and scored 49 of 75 points. DeAndre Haynes (187-G-84, college: Kent St.) had also a great debut and showed his excellent point guard skills: penetrations, nice shoots, assists, a very skilled guard. From the hungarian players Zsolt Szabo (202-F-86, agency: Laszlo Vinko Services) had a great day and scored 27 points with 4 three-pointers.

ASE played against Lucenec from Slovakia and it seems to be that this summer the management found the right players for the team: Nicholls, Fajardo and Gosa seem to be the right players for coach Sabali.

The team of Albacomp played on a tournament in Slovakia last weekend and won only one of three games.

Atomeromu SE - Lucenec 87-54
(23-14, 23-15, 21-12, 20-13)
Paks, Att.: 500, Referees: Szabo G., Maar, Domokos
ASE: Nicholls 10/3, Charles Gosa (202-F-77, agency: Arik Krayn Services, college: N.Mexico St.) 17/9, Nick Williams (192-G-83, agency: Beo Basket, college: Cincinnati) 13/3, Fajardo 9, Gulyas 12, Csaplar-Nagy 3/3, Kiss Zs. 9/9, Meszaros, Morgen 5/3, Medve 6/3, Kiricsi 3, Coach: Balazs Sabali



Szolnoki Olaj KK - Univer-Kecskemet 75-67
(16-14, 27-17, 15-24, 17-12)
Kunszentmarton, Att: 400, Referees: Gaal, Balogh, Fodor
SZOLNOK: Jerome Coleman 29/18, Cziczas 11/9, Toth V., Cseh, Jelic 20, Gaal 9/3, Harazin 6, Szabo P., Varadi. Coach: Por Peter
UNIVER: Haynes 17/9, Toth P. 5/3, Szabo Zs. 27/12, Horti, Volcy 13/6, Tornoczky 5, Puszta, Kovacs A., Coach: Zsoldos Andras


Pezinok - Albacomp 69-97
(25-12, 7-38, 19-27, 18-20)
Albacomp: Bell 12, Hanga 5, Morrison 9, Radovic 19/3, Doyne 18/6, Antal 3/3, Soas 18/9, Madar 2, Keller 6, Dvid, Gobi, Coach: Pereszegi-Nagy Akos

Komarno - Albacomp 81-71
(24-12, 24-22, 15-15, 18-22)
Albacomp: Doyne 8/3, Hanga 12/6, Bell 16/3, Morrison 14, Radovic 10, Soos 11/3, David, Antal, Gobi, Keller, Coach: Peresztegi-Nagy Akos

Novy Jicin - Albacomp 97-94
Albacomp: Bam Doyne (193-G-84, college: Mississippi) 35/15, Rashad Bell (200-F-82, college: Boston U.) 22, Radovic 15/3, Morrison 8, Hanga 11/6, Gobi, David, Soos 3/3, Keller. Coach: Peresztegi-Nagy Akos

NYKK signed Burton and Jelesijevic - by Tamas Deri
The management of NYKK just published the signing of two more foreigners and so the roster should be complete for the next season.
American guard, Andre Burton (195-G-83, agency: Court Side, college: Evansville) will arrive on monday and spend a week tryout with his new team. The 195 cm tall player graduated on the Evansville University and played already in Germany, Romania, Holland, Mexico. He averaged 18 points in Romania and 15.6 points in Holland, so the management expects him as a great offensive weapon.
Nemanja Jelesijevic (208-C/F-79, agency: Interperformances) is a player with a lot of experience as he played already in Serbia, Germany, Israel, and Slovenia. In his last season with Zlatorog he averaged FIBA EuroCup: 2 games: 20.5ppg, 11.0rpg, 3.0bpg, 2FGP: 66.7%, 3PT: 54.5%, FT: 70%; Slovenian League: 34 games: 9.2ppg, 1.4rpg, 1.2apg, 2FGP: 57.1%, 3PT: 33.3%, FT: 72.4%.

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


Stefansson and Sigurdarson sign for KR ! - by Einar Johannsson

Jon Stefansson (195-G-82) (195-G-82) and Jakob Sigurdarson (192-G-82, agency: IceBasket, college: Birmingham Souther) have signed for KR Reykjavik for upcoming season. This is one of the biggest news in Icelandic basketball for a long time. Both players signed 1 year deal.

Stefansson has been playing in all the biggest leagues since he started his pro career overseas back in 2002. He started with Trier in Germany, then Dallas Mavericks in NBA, won FIBA Euro Cup with Dinamo St Petersburg in 2005. In 2006 he was with Napoli and won the cup in Italy, then signed for Valencia in Spain before moving to Lottomatica Virtus Roma last year.

Sigurdarson finished four very good years at Birmingham Southern back in 2005. He was with Bayer Giants Leverkusen season 2005-2006, and then with Gestiberica Vigo in LEB2 Spain 2006-2007. Last year Sigurdarson played for Kecskemeti Univer KSE in Hungary.

Stefansson and Sigurdarson are now playing for NT in B divison, and will join KR Reykjavik after that period. The KR Reykjavik team will be very strong with them along with national team players Helgi Magnusson (198-G/F-82, agency: IceBasket, college: Catawba) and Fannar Olafsson (203-C-78, college: Indiana, PA) and then KR Reykjavik recently added Jason Dourisseau (196-G-83, college: Nebraska) who played for Ludwigsburg in Bundesliga Germany last two years.


KR team will clearly be one of the favorites to take the championship this upcoming season.



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


Standings - LBAL
LBAL Standings
 1. Roja 0-0 
 2. Ezerzeme 0-0 
 3. Maksis/LTI 0-0 
 4. ASK Kadeti 0-0 
 5. I.O.S. 0-0 
 6. LNSF 0-0 
 7. ASK Kadeti-2 0-0 
 8. Preili 0-0 
 9. Baldone 0-0 
Austrumi
 1. Jekabpils 0-0 
 2. Salacgriva 0-0 
 3. Madona 0-0 
 4. Gulbene 0-0 
 5. DU/Hansabanka 0-0 
 6. Cesu SS 0-0 
 7. Lielvarde 0-0 
 8. Sigulda 0-0 
Centrs A
 1. Livu akvaparks 0-0 
 2. VIA Riga 0-0 
 3. Ogre/Sonora 0-0 
 4. Ridzene 90 0-0 
 5. Ridzene M. 0-0 
 6. Saulkrasti 0-0 
 7. LU 0-0 
 8. Fonds 0-0 
Centrs B
 1. Juramalas SS 0-0 
 2. BJSS 0-0 
 3. Ogre/LDz 0-0 
 4. Turiba 0-0 
 5. Ridzene 91 0-0 
 6. Kursa/MRU 0-0 
 7. 3.BJSS 0-0 
 8. DSN 0-0 
 9. VEF Riga 0-0 
Rietumi
 1. Talsi 0-0 
 2. Tukums 0-0 
 3. Dartija 0-0 
 4. Variants 0-0 
 5. Olaine 0-0 
 6. Perkons 0-0 
 7. Elvi Kuldiga 0-0 
 8. Bauska 0-0 
 9. Saldus-2 0-0 


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


Varnelis led Alitus in the offensive win - by Eurobasket News
Not only Lithuanian titans play friendy games, but also the teams that will compete with them in LKL. Most of the teams play Ukrainian squads and exchange the experience. At first Khimik overcame Sakalai 90:67 on September 11th. For the Ukrainian team it was the third victory in Lithuania out of four played. Khimik made 18 steals as well as 24 turnovers in the game. The main coach mentioned that it was too much and that the team would work on that. Andrei Korochkin (194-G-82) paced all the winners with 17 points, 3 rebounds and 3 assists. Chakin nailed 15, while Kelly had 12 as well a 4 assists.
Mykolaiv beat Sakalai tonight with 104:99. Ivan Hilevych (202-F/C-82) led the winners with 20 points. Aleksandr Rayevskyy (185-G-76), and Glebovskiy added 18 points apiece and Yailo had 15.
Nerijus Varnelis (200-F-78) led Alitus over Sumihimprom 110:103. In an offensive game Lithuanian team looked better as Nerijus Varnelis ended up with 27 points. Eurobasket will follow other teams and games before the start of the Championship and Baltic league.

*****************************************************
  NAIA   


Eisner moves to Creighton - by Brandon Woudstra
Bellevue has announced that Coach Todd Todd Eisner will move on to coach for the University of Creighton which is also located in Omaha, Nebraska. Here is the part of the release:

Todd Todd Eisner has worn the purple and gold of Bellevue University for eight years but as of Wednesday morning, those years have come to an end. Todd Eisner has accepted the position of assistant men's basketball coach at Creighton University.

Todd Eisner , after winning his 300th career victory last season and leading his team to its second runner-up finish at the NAIA national tournament, has decided to head back 'home' to his alma mater, where he was a standout Bluejay basketball player from 1986 to 1991.

The Chilton, Wis., native guided the Bruins to a 33-4 record last season and during his stint at Bellevue University compiled a record of 226-56, with seven Midland Collegiate Athletic Conference championships, eight NAIA DII national tournament appearances and two NAIA DII national tournament runner-up finishes. He coached 20 MCAC all-conference players and 13 NAIA DII All-Americans.

*****************************************************
  NBA   


Delonte West Signs Multi-Year Contract with Cavaliers and Warriors waived Kosta Perovic - by Bruno Baltazar
Cleveland Cavaliers guard Delonte West (6'4''-G-83, college: St.Joseph's) has signed a multi-year contract with the team.
Acquired from the Seattle SuperSonics on Feb. 21 as part of a three-team, 11-player trade, West played in 61 games (31 starts) for Seattle and Cleveland and averaged 8.3 points on .413 shooting, 3.2 rebounds and 3.8 assists in 25.1 minutes per game during the 2007-08 season. In 26 games (all starts) with the Cavaliers, the 6-foot-3 guard averaged 10.3 points on .440 shooting, 3.7 rebounds and 4.5 assists in 31.0 minutes per game.
This is the first time since I was offered a scholarship at St. Joes that I feel like I am valued as a person and a player. Dan Gilbert and the Cavaliers have shown me that they value me as a person and a player and that was the most important thing to me, said West. In that sense, this was not about a specific dollar amount. You cant really put a dollar value on a person, their skills you can, but not their heart and what kind of person they are. My family is blessed and I feel a great relief to be able to concentrate on basketball now.
We have consistently communicated our desire to keep Delonte as a member of this basketball team. His tenacity helps us on both ends of the floor and his defensive play certainly reflects how we want to play the game, said Ferry. Contending teams need areas of strength and need depth. Having Delonte, Mo (Williams) and Daniel (Gibson) certainly creates an advantageous situation for us.
West, 25, started all 13 games during the 2008 postseason and averaged 10.8 points, 3.3 rebounds, 4.2 assists and 1.2 steals in 34.8 minutes per game.

The Golden State Warriors have waived center Kosta Perovic (7'2''-C-85).
Perovic, 23, was selected by the Warriors in the second round (#38 overall) of the 2006 NBA Draft. In seven games with Golden State this season, he averaged 1.4 points and 1.9 rebounds in 5.4 minutes per contest. Additionally, the 7-2 center appeared in 21 games with the Bakersfield Jam of the NBA Development League, averaging 9.5 points, 7.2 rebounds, and 1.55 blocks in 23.3 minutes.
Golden State now has 17 players under contract.

Lakers sign CJ Giles and LaFrentz from Blazers undergo surgery - by Bruno Baltazar

The Los Angeles Lakers have signed free agent forward C.J. Giles (6'11''-C-85, college: Kansas).

Giles, a 6-11 forward who finished his collegiate career at Oregon State after playing two seasons at Kansas, averaged 6.3 points and 5.6 rebounds in ten games last season for the Beavers.

The Portland Trail Blazers announced today that center/forward Raef LaFrentz (6'11''-C-76, college: Kansas) will undergo arthroscopic surgery on Friday, September 26 to repair a tear in the labrum of his right shoulder.
Dr. Neal ElAttrache will perform the surgery at the Kerlan-Jobe Orthopedic Clinic in Los Angeles, Calif.
I was really hoping to avoid surgery, said LaFrentz, who sustained the injury during Portlands game at Seattle on February 22, 2008. I was hopeful that an off-season regiment of physical therapy and treatment would heal the injury, but unfortunately its become clear now that I need to move forward with surgery.
A timetable for LaFrentzs return will be set following the arthroscopic surgery.



Jason Collins undergoes surgery - by Eurobasket News
Minnesota Timberwolves center Jason Collins (6'10''-C-78, college: Stanford) underwent surgery on Thursday. Reason - to repair a rupture of his right triceps tendon in his elbow.

Collins was acquired in an eight-player trade with the Memphis Grizzlies that also brought Kevin Love, Mike Miller and Brian Cardinal to the Timberwolves. He is expected to be sidelined for the next eight weeks, meaning he likely will miss the start of the season.

The 29-year-old averaged 1.9 points and 2.4 rebounds in 74 games with the New Jersey Nets and the Grizzlies.

Minnesota opens the regular season at home against the Sacramento Kings. The game is schedule for October 29.

Courtesy of http://ca.sports.yahoo.com/

Shaquille O'Neal puts timetable on retirement - by Eurobasket News
Not 732 or 733 or 734 days. No, Phoenix Suns center Shaquille O'Neal (7'2''-C-72, college: LSU) knows his life will change in exactly 735 days.

'My basketball career will be over in 735 days,' O'Neal told News 13 television in Orlando, Fla. 'And being an educated man, I've always had things to fall back on. So one of my options is law enforcement.'

O'Neal, who was drafted by the Orlando Magic but has since played for the Los Angeles Lakers, Miami Heat and Phoenix Suns, still has a house in Central Florida. He spoke of his possible future plans Wednesday with the kids at the Pine Hills Boys and Girls Club.

O'Neal has long had an interest in law enforcement and went through the training with the Los Angeles County Sheriff's Reserve Academy before becoming a reserve officer with the L.A. Port Police.

A 7-foot future Hall of Famer, O'Neal said he intends to play out the remainder of his contract and retire. He has won four titles in his career -- three with the Lakers and one with the Heat.

Courtesy of http://sports.espn.go.com/

*****************************************************
  NCAA1   


Basketball coach says cancer found during surgery - by Bruno Baltazar
Northern State's Don Meyer , tops on the NCAA win list among active men's basketball coaches, learned Friday he has cancer following his release from intensive care after a car accident.

Meyer hopes to return this season, although athletic director Bob Olson said it's too early to tell how long recovery will take. He stressed the importance of the coach's attitude.

``He'll be an impatient patient,'' Olson said. ``We fully expect him to be back as soon as possible.''

The 63-year-old Meyer is the NCAA's leader among active men's basketball coaches with 891 wins.

Laurie Nichols, interim president of the Division II school in Aberdeen, read a statement from Meyer at a news conference, saying doctors found a slow-growing cancer in his liver and bowels.

``What's great about this is I would not have known about the cancer had I not had the wreck,'' the coach wrote. ``God has blessed with the one thing we all need, which is truth. I can now fight with all of my ability.''

Assistant coach Randy Baruth said Meyer already had a bar installed on his bed so he can do pull-ups.

``He's ready to roll,'' Baruth said.

Olson said Meyer will contribute to the team during his recovery, but his focus is not on the victory list.

``The person that cares least about wins is Coach Meyer,'' he said.

Doctors found the cancer during emergency surgery, one of several he has undergone, but waited until he had recovered enough to tell him.

Meyer said the oncologist told him cancer treatment will not interfere with the rehabilitation of his left leg. On Sept. 5, his car collided with an oncoming semi. His was the first of several vehicles carrying the basketball team to a hunting lodge. Meyer was the only one injured, and the accident remains under investigation.

Meyer, known for his summer basketball camps, joined Northern State in 1999 and in his third season led the Wolves to the 2002 Northern Sun Intercollegiate Conference co-championship. He also coached at Hamline University in Minnesota and Lipscomb University in Tennessee.

Harvard cleared in recruiting probe - by Kevin Cochran
The Ivy League has concluded its inquiry into questions raised in a March 2008 newspaper article about possible improper recruiting activity during the spring and summer of 2007, related to Harvard University's mens basketball program.

The League has determined that no violations of NCAA or Ivy League rules occurred. Harvard Head Coach Tommy Amaker and Assistant Coach Kenny Blakeney were completely forthcoming in their participation in this inquiry, and interviews with others who were involved, as well as a thorough examination of relevant records, corroborated that the coaches contacts with prospective student-athletes and their families were entirely consistent with NCAA and Ivy League rules.

The March 2008 article also purported to raise questions about the academic credentials of students who might be admitted to Harvard as recruited mens basketball players in the Class of 2012. The Ivy League routinely reviews the admission of all recruited athletes each year, and in this years review concluded that Harvard's admission of recruited men's basketball players complied with all relevant Ivy League obligations.

Courtesy: The Ivy League


MTSU center out 6-8 weeks - by Kevin Cochran
Middle Tenn.St. senior center Theryn Hudson (6'10''-C-87) underwent surgery for an existing foot injury Wednesday afternoon and will be sidelined for six-to-eight weeks during the preseason, according to head coach Kermit Davis .

The surgery was conducted by Dr. Jeffrey Herring, a member of Tennessee Orthopaedic Alliance who specializes in orthopaedic surgery with an emphasis on foot and ankle surgery. He served as the Tennessee Titans team doctor from 1997-2003.

Hudson had suffered a partial tear of the tendon in his right foot - the same injury that forced the rising senior to miss three weeks of last season, according to head athletic trainer Drew Shea.

'Dr. Michael Jordan referred us to Dr. Herring, who really specializes in this area,' Davis said. 'Dr. Herring said the surgery was a definite success. There was ligament damage. Theryn is in a cast and the recovery process is six-to-eight weeks but this surgery should definitely enable Theryn to play pain free and enjoy a very successful senior season.'

Hudson's anticipated return to the court will be Nov. 10 depending on his rehabilitation. Surgery was initially discussed during the spring but as the injury appeared to be healing other options were explored.

'Theryn missed three weeks with the foot injury last season but he came back and showed a lot of toughness and finished the year,' Davis said. 'Surgery was something that was discussed in the spring but it is the last thing you want to do. Theryn went through some good times in the summer but at the end of the summer there was reoccurring pain. With the suggestion of (Shea) we tried rest but it wasn't getting any better and the determination was made that Theryn needed surgery.'

Hudson's career 60.5 field goal percentage is second all-time at Middle Tenn.St.. He led the Sun Belt with a personal-best 64.7 field goal percentage in 2007-08, which is fourth on the Middle Tenn.St. single-season list. He came back from his foot injury last season to shoot 74 percent over the last 12 games and he was 7-of-8 for a career-high 19 points and team-best eight rebounds in Middle Tenn.St.'s first-round win against Louisiana-Monroe in the Sun Belt Conference championships.

Courtesy: MT Athletic Communications

USF Basketball Reports Secondary NCAA Violations - by Eurobasket News
The University of South Florida uncovered and self-reported four secondary violations in the men's basketball program to the NCAA on Wednesday.

The violations were for allowing four players to compete in summer leagues. The problem is they done it without approval from USF athletic director Doug Woolard as required by the NCAA's bylaws.

Chris Howard, Dominique Jones, Aris Williams and Jesus Verdejo each participated in summer leagues without the required approval.

USF coach Stan Heath did not return calls seeking comment. He was aware of the players' participation in the summer leagues, USF assistant AD Chris Freet said.

The precedent for those types of violations is not a suspension, Freet said.

Courtesy of http://www2.tbo.com/

Tom Crean looking to add a couple more to roster - by Eurobasket News
The Indiana staff is in the process of looking at prospective walk-ons for this years team. The Hoosiers already have four invited walk-ons in Daniel Moore, Kory Barnett, Broderick Lewis and Brett Finkelmeier, and Tom Crean said Wednesday hes open to adding two more.

Tom Crean said his staff has already looked at a couple of potential additions and that theyll likely have a couple more workout this week. Actual walk-on tryouts could come as soon as the week of Sept. 22, which is the first time Crean will be able to work out the team together instead of in smaller groups.

I dont want to add people just for the sake of saying we have bodies, Crean said. I want guys who can come in and contribute. Thats what were trying to look at in our workouts. How does this person get on the floor and help us?

Getting on the floor doesnt necessarily mean in games, but rather on the practice floor. When it comes to practice, Tom Crean s staff is in desperate need of some size so that the couple of big men they do have actually have some big men to practice against during the course of the season.

So while heart, toughness and character are among the traits Tom Crean is looking for during these workouts, a little bit of size doesnt hurt, either.

I had a young man the night who said, I have been thinking about trying out, Crean said. I saw his size and I said, No, you are trying out. No questions asked. If youre going to be 610, youre going to come over and let us look.

Crean s hope is that he can expand the current roster of 13 up to 15. While that might have a goal to two more players, though, Crean said hes only going to do it if he can find a couple of IU students who he thinks can legitimately help make the team better.

There has to be value, Tom Crean said. When you get on the floor you have to bring value to the court. Were really looking for people that can make their teammates better. How do you get the ball to the open man? How do you keep the ball from getting in the lane. All those different things.

Courtesy of http://collegebasketballnews.scout.com

Guard Tyrone Shelley joins San Diego State - by Eurobasket News
San Diego State men's basketball head coach Steve Fisher announced Friday that shooting guard and San Diego native Tyrone Shelley (6'6''-G) has joined the SDSU men's basketball program. Shelley must sit out the 2008-09 season due to NCAA transfer rules and will be eligible as a sophomore in 2009-10.

'We are excited that Tyrone is a part of San Diego State University,' Fisher said. 'He will be a great addition to our team and we are excited to have him return home and grow with the program. He has a knack for scoring the basketball, which is something that every team needs. He is a very good athlete who knows how to score in a variety of ways.'

Shelley, 6-6, 220-pound guard, comes to Montezuma Mesa after spending one season at Pepperdine where he averaged a team-best 15.1 points in 32 games, while making 19 starts in 2007-08. The Crawford High product also averaged 5.8 rebounds, 0.9 assists and 1.6 steals per game. Shelley connected on a team-high 167 field goals, while ranking second on the team in rebound average, steals (52), three-point field goals (48), free throws (100) and free-throw percentage (.763). Additionally, his 17 blocked shots were third-most for the Waves.

At nearby Crawford, Shelley, who earned EA Sports All-America honors as a senior, completed his prep career by setting the CIF San Diego Section career scoring record with 2,962 points. In his final game in the CIF Division III semifinals, Shelley scored 42 points to provide his final career total.

In addition to being named an All-American, Shelley earned all-state first-team accolades and was named the San Diego section and San Diego Union-Tribune player of the year after averaging 34.9 points per game, the second-highest total in section history. Included in his career scoring total are 566 total free throws, which was section record at the time. Shelley left Crawford as the eighth-best senior in California, according to Rivals.com and as the No. 64- and No. 75-rated senior by Rivals.com and Hoop Scoop, respectively.

As a junior, Shelley averaged 26.9 points and guided Crawford to the section title. At the conclusion of the year he was named to the all-state second team and was named a Student Sports All-American all-junior honoree. During the campaign, Shelley scored a section-record 76 points in a win over Canada's Burlington Central High. In his sophomore season, Shelley posted a scoring average of 27.9 points and was named the California sophomore of the year by CalHiSports.

Prior to attending Crawford, Shelley went to El Cajon Christian High where he averaged 28.5 points.

Courtesy of www.ncaa.com

Santa Clara announces two staff hires - by Eurobasket News
Santa Clara University men's basketball head coach Kerry Keating announced today Jason Ludwig, who spent last season as the Broncos' video coordinator, has been promoted to Director of Basketball Operations. In addition, Jesse Pruitt has been hired as the video coordinator for the men's and women's basketball teams. Pruitt joins the Broncos staff after serving two years as an assistant under Head Coach Greg Kamansky at Division II Cal Poly Pomona. Pruitt's main responsibilities were player development, film exchange, recruiting and game preparation.

'Jason is very deserving of this promotion after having done a great job last year as our video coordinator and having spent the last five years with me as a coach. He will help with the continuity of our family and be a vital part of our success,' said Keating. 'In addition, I am excited we have added Jesse to our staff. He brings great enthusiasm and working knowledge of game preparation and daily effort. He will be a great fit for our family here at Santa Clara.'

'I am thrilled for the opportunity Coach Keating has given me and am looking forward to taking on my new responsibilities. Santa Clara is a wonderful place and I am excited about the direction our program is heading,' said Ludwig.

'I would like to thank Coach Keating and the Santa Clara administration for this opportunity. I'm ecstatic about working with the Broncos' staff and the student-athletes in our program,' said Pruitt.

Ludwig, a native of Montebello, Calif., graduated with a degree in economics from UCLA in 2005. While at UCLA he worked as the student manager for the UCLA men's basketball team. In 2005, his senior year, he worked daily with the team as they advanced to the first round of the NCAA Tournament. Post-graduation he remained with the Bruins as the Assistant Video Coordinator. In his time with the team, UCLA reached two straight Final Fours.

Ludwig attended Montebello High School where he was a standout player on the men's varsity basketball team and earned numerous accolades. He was named team MVP in his junior and senior year, led his team to its first League championship in 30 years and was named the league's most valuable player as a senior in 2001.

Pruitt graduated from UC Davis in 2005 with a bachelor's degree in Sociology-Organizational Studies. He was a member of the Aggies team for two seasons under former UC Davis head coach Brian Fogel. Pruitt had a career-high 14 points against UC San Diego in a thrilling 2OT victory on Jan. 25, 2003.

Pruitt earned three varsity letters at Upland High School. He was the team captain as a senior and led the team to a 33-2 record and a CIF Southern Section championship, a No. 4 state ranking and a No. 10 national ranking.

Pruitt is a native of Pomona, Calif. He has worked at several basketball camps including: Cal Poly Pomona, Cal State Fullerton, Double Pump, Maryland, Pangos All-American, Santa Clara, Stanford, UC Berkeley, UC Davis, UC Irvine and UCLA.

Courtesy of www.ncaa.com

Three former Black Bears sign contracts in Europe - by Eurobasket News
Three recent graduates of the University of Maine men's basketball team have signed professional contracts in Europe for the upcoming season.

Kevin Reed (6'3''-G-81, agency: CAA Sports, college: Maine) (`07) re-signed with Bree of the Belgian League. Reed was a four-time All-America East honoree during his career at Maine.

Olli Ahvenniemi (6'10''-C-83, college: Maine) (`07) signed a new contract with Tampere of the Finnish Professional League. Ahvenniemi, a Maine co-captain in 2006-07, played last year for Kauhajoki in the same league.

Ludmil Hadjusitirov (`04) signed a contract with the Geneve Devils inSwitzerland'sfirst division, the LNA. 'Udo' is now entering his 5th professional season in Europe.

Other Black Bears who have recently played professionally overseas include Nate Fox (`00), who spent his 8th professional season in Germany, and Mark Flavin (`05), who finished last season in Turkey.

Courtesy of www.goblackbears.com

*****************************************************
  NICARAGUA   


Stats Leaders
D1 Stats Leaders
Points Per Game
1.Walter, UAM 18.6
2.Gonzalez, Caima. 17.7
3.Watson, FUPADE 17.1
4.Olivas, UAM1 3.8
5.Rocha, A.College 11.9
Rebounds Per Game
1.Watson, FUPADE 7.7
2.Abea, A.College 7.3
3.Sanchez, Caima 6.0
4.Tijerino, FUPADE 5.7
4.Aray, Caimanes 5.2
Assists Per Game
1.Gonzalez, FUPADE 4.2
2.Esquivel, Caima 3.9
3.Walter, UAM 3.9
4.Silva, UAM 3.6
5.Lopez, UAM 3.4
Steals Per Game
1.Walter, UAM 2.1
2.Esquivel, Caimanes 2.1
3.Gonzalez, FUPA 1.9
2FGP
1.Watson, FUPADE 6.8
2.Gonzalez, Caima 6.3
3.Walter, UAM 6.0
3FGP
1.Olivas, UAM 2.0
2.Silva, UAM 1.7
3.Barberena, Caiman 1.4
Free Throws
1.Walter, UAM 6.8
2.Watson, FUPADE 6.8
3.Gonzalez, Caima 6.4


*****************************************************
  PARAGUAY   


Sol de America claims second place - by Gianni Pascucci
Defeating Deportivo San Jose in the second game of the Additional Series to decide the 2nd place, Sol de America gained the 0,50 point-bonus. The game ended 77-73, and Joe Williams (201-C-79, college: Austin Peay St.) was the game top scorer at 20 points. Roberto Laratro (198-C-82, college: Gettysburg) and Bruno Martinessi (202-F-81, college: Union (TN)) were the best at the losing side, with 16 and 15 pts, respectively. The starting grid of the Quadrangolar will be as follows:
1. Libertad 1 point
2. Sol de America 0,5 point
3. San Jose 0 pts
4. UAA 0 pts

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


Standings - LPB
LPB Standings
 1. Benfica 0-0 
 2. Ovarense 0-0 
 3. Porto Ferpinta 0-0 
 4. Barreirense 0-0 
 5. Fisica 0-0 
 6. Ginasio 0-0 
 7. CAB 0-0 
 8. Academica 0-0 
 9. Belenenses 0-0 
 10. Lusitania 0-0 
 11. Guimaraes 0-0 
 12. Vagos 0-0 


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


CSKA Moscow better than Armani Jeans Milano in Verona - by Eurobasket News
Euroleague champion CSKA Moscow grabbed victory in its first friendly game of the pre-season. The match was played in Verona on Wednesday. It is important to be mentioned that Russian powerhouse played this game without Viktor Khryapa (204-F/G-82) and Matjaz Smodis (205-F-79). Coach Ettore Messina also substituted Ramunas Siskauskas (197-G-78), who had some pain in his Achilles.
As it was expected CSKA took control on Armani Jeans Milano from the early beginning. After opening ten minutes players of Ettore Messina already created plus 13, 13-26. Second stanza was totally leveled. Both teams missed many shots ending it 16-16. Third frame was the crucial one in this game as CSKA once again intensified defense stopping AJ Milano on 13 points. It means that Italian team scored just 42 points for 30 minutes while CSKA had 62. The rest of the game was just a formality.
Erazem Lorbek (210-F/C-84, college: Michigan St.) shined in CSKA leading it to victory with 13 points, 7 boards and 2 assists. Andrey Vorontsevich (204-C-87) was the second scorer for the winning team nailing 12 points. At the same time he had 5 more rebounds and two blocked shots. Nikos Zisis (195-G-83) was behind these two players with 11 points while Terence Morris (206-F-79, college: Maryland) collected 9 points and 3 rebounds. Zoran Planinic (198-G-82), Trajan Langdon (192-G-76, college: Duke) and Viktor Keyru (200-G-84, agency: Octagon) had 7 points each. Other scorers for CSKA were J.R. Holden (185-G-76, college: Bucknell) 5, Alexey Shved (196-G-88) 3, Alexei Savrasenko (215-C-79) 3, Alexander Kaun (211-C-85) 2 and Ramunas Siskauskas 2. AJ Milano got 21 points from David Hawkins (193-G-82, agency: CAA Sports, college: Temple) and 18 points from Jobey Thomas (193-G-80, college: Charlotte).

Spartak-Primorie sign Maurice Bailey - by Eurobasket News
Spartak-Primorie bolstered their squad with the addition of American point guard Maurice Bailey (183-G-81, agency: Larry Fox Services, college: Sacred Heart). The 27-year-old Sacred Heart college graduate spent the last season in Slovenia. There he played for the local powerhouse Olimpija from Ljubljana. He averaged 10.7 points and 2.1 assists per game in the Slovenian league. He also scored 9.1 and 11.2 points in the Euroleague and Adriatic League respectively. Earlier he had stints with Nancy and Brest in France before moving to Russia in 2006. He played for Lokomotiv Rostov in the Russian Superleague as well as in FIBA EuroCup. In Sacred Heart Maurice Bailey averaged 20.2 points and 2.7 assists per game in his senior year.
Meanwhile Spartak-Primorie continued their preseason preparations. Yesterday the team overcame French Toulon 72:64. Trailing by 7 points after the opening term Spartak managed to get closer in the second period however entered the fourth stanza trailing by 8 points. But Aleksandr Fomin (206-F-86, agency: Interperformances) and Vladimir Shevel (199-G-84) led the Russian team to the win at the end. Aleksandr Fomin finished the game with 19 points, while Vladimir Shevel added 17 points for the winners. Spartak-Primorie will next take on Turkish Turk Telecom. Maurice Bailey is expected to join the team in this game.

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


Hemofarm and Vojvodina won in friendly games - by Zoran Popovic
KK Hemofarm Stada Vrsac beated CSU Asesoft Ploiesti Romanian Champion in friendly game 86-61 (25-20, 20-17, 20-5, 21-19). Romanian team had 4-6 points advantage in the first quarter, but with three points shoots of Milan Macvan (205-F/C-89) and Ilija Pavkovic (203-G-88) in the second quarter Hemofarm made 8 points advantage (45-37).

KK Hemofarm Stada Vrsac:
Savovic 10, Lambic, Joksimovic 7, Bozovic 12, Ilija Pavkovic 9, Krstovic 9, Vulic, Milan Macvan 17, Pertrovic 6, Obrenovic 2, Despotovic 3, Vukosavljevic 11.

CSU Asesoft Ploiesti
Jones 19, Osmokrovic, Curtis 19, Hargrove, Cepulis,Griffith 4, Sokolov 2, Dogaru, Dodok, Araray.

Vojvodina Srbija Gas Novi Sad players made break in first quarter of friendly game with SC Otopeni. Romanian team starts the match with a lot of missed shoots and Vojvodina Srbija Gas Novi Sad players made advantage after every mistake of guest players. Better than others in Serbian team was Marko Pekovic (193-G-81, agency: Beo Basket), Zdravkovic, Jovanovic and Borovnjak.

Vojvodina Srbija Gas Novi Sad:
Popovic 2, Zdravkovic 8, Radenkovic 3, Pekovic 24, Habus, Borovnjak 14, Bajic 8, Jovanovic 14, Sutalo 9, Ilija Pavkovic, Wolton 3, Buha.

CS Otopeni Bucuresti:
Budary 9, Obradovic 9, Popovic 19, Santana 6, Ilie, Zamfiresky, Tibirna, Belanovic 7, Medvedj 7, Fiegi 16.

Jevdjic in Swisslions, Dalipagic and Matic stays on Cyprus - by Dragan Jankovski
Participant of Serbian A1 and Balkan league Swisslions Takovo inked Aleksandar Jevdic (203-F/C-82), ex player of Zlatorog Lasko. Jevdjic started last season in Leotar Trebinje but later he moved to Sloga Kraljevo. Very soon he agreed terms with Slovenian team Zlatorog Lasko. Jevdjic played 20 games in Slovenian A1 averaging 8.5 ppg and 1.1 rpg. It was his fourth season in Slovenia as he already played for Geoplin Slovan and two years in Pivovarna Lasko. He grew up in Partizan's youth selection and later played for Borac Cacak and Sloga Kraljevo. Jevdjic was a member of Yugoslavian U18 as well as U20 National Team.

Davorin Dalipagic (203-F-76, college: S.Alabama), son of 'Hall of Fame' member Drazen Dalipagic, extended contract with Cypriot team Etha Engomis for one more year. Dalipagic ended last season as a fourth scorer in Cypriot A1 adding 15.6 ppg. At the same time he had 6.8 rpg in 16 games. At the end of the season on Cyprus he moved to Swedish team 08 Stockholm. Dalipagic, who possesses double citizenship Serbian / Slovenian, in the past used to play for Partizan, South Alabama University, Honved, Beleneses, AEL Limassol, Krka, Napoli and APOEL Nicosia. He also spent two months with Atlas Belgrade on season 05/06.

Aleksandar Matic (203-F-76) agreed terms with ENAD Agios Dometios to extended contract for season 08/09. Matic had 15 appearances in Cypriot A1 adding 12.5 ppg, 6.3 rpg ad 1.1 spg. Before ENAD, Matic played for Petrom Elba, Barreirense, Borac Nektar, Gacko, Zdravlje and FMP.

Serbia and Hungary today at 18h, Savanovic injured - by Dragan Jankovski
Serbian senior National Team today continues fight for Eurobasket 2009 in Poland. Ex World and European champions demonstrated pretty good performance so far registering 4 wins (Italy twice, Hungary and Bulgaria) and one road defeat (Finland). Today at 18h in Szombathely Serbs will have a chance to make a huge step forward. In the first game in Belgrade's Arena Serbia dominated during the entire time winning with plus 34 but Hungary for sure will be much better today at their home court. Serbia had support of almost 22.000 against Hungary in Arena.

As usually head coach Dusan Ivkovic is big optimist. He stated that Team Serbia will have to be focused and to try to control rhythm of the game during the entire time.

'Hungarians will be very dangerous if we let them shooting, especially Istvan Nemeth. Big guys Bader and Sitoku also can shoot from the field as well as from behind the arc so we have to be very aggressive on those players also. Every game is decisive for us. We suffered defeat in Finland and we do not have right to repeat it. I hope my team will be ready for a good basketball tonight. I am an optimist', said Dusan Ivkovic.

The bad thing for Team Serbia is that Dusko Savanovic (204-F/C-83, agency: Beo Basket), who was on very high level against Italians in the last round, sprained his ankle and won't be able to help his teammates until the end of the qualifications. However, Savanovic went to the airport in order to wish luck to Serbian players. Ivkovic said that he feels sory for Savanovic's injury as he started to play pretty good.

'Savanovic's attitude and willingness to play for Serbia is great and he proved it by coming to airport Nikola Tesla', said Dusan Ivkovic.

Mega Aqua Monta changes name to Mega Hypo Leasing - by Dragan Jankovski
Mega Basket, last season known as Mega Aqua Monta, got a new general sponsor. It is international company Hypo Alpe Adria Leasing. Terms as well as duration of the sponsorship contract are not announced. The team will compete next season in Serbian A1 and Balkan league (BIBL) with a new name Mega Hypo Leasing.

At the same press conference Mega Hypo Leasing officially presented new player Vladimir Jankovic (208-F-90), son of Serbian basketball legend Boban Jankovic. Serbian / Greek played last few seasons in Panionios Athens. He will spend 08/09 in Mega Hypo Leasing on loan.

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


Cup Spar - Round 1 - by Zeljko Zule
2008-09 Cup Spar first round results: Celjski KK (D2)-Konjice (B1) 82:87, Litija (B1)-Parklji (B1) 59:94, Prebold (D3)-Hrastnik (B1) 54:84, Dravograd (D2)-Rogaska (B1) 64:102, Jance 87-Ruse (D2) 94:61, Parklji II (D3)-Vrani (D3) 50:82, Nazarje (D3)-Mavrica Kamnik (D2) 75:85, Bistrica (D3)-Jezica (D2) 78:70, Maribor (D2)-Radenska Creativ (B1) 97:81, Primafoto (D3)-Ilirija (D2) 54:60, Lastovka (D2)-MF C.2 Maribor (B1) 53:117, Terme Olimia (D2)-Union Olimpija (D2) II 85:89, Koroska (D3)-Rogla (B1) 64:78, Kranjska Gora (D3)-Gorenja vas (D3) 61:81, SP Portoroz II (D3)-Jesenice (D2) 62:81, Krvavec (D3)-Kos Vzajemna (D3) 75:90, Krka II (D2)-Plama Pur (D2) 69:47, Pingvini (D2)-EM Postojna (A1) 56:116, Idrija 2000 (D2)-Nova Gorica (A1) 66:97, Tolmin (D2)-Triglav (B1) 58:84, Logatec (D3)-SP Portoroz (D2) 56:94, Ajdovscina (D2)-Jance (B1) 57:64, Strazisce (D2)-Tinex Medvode (D2) 65:68, Sencur CPK II (D3)-Javor Pivka (D3) 73:71, Kolpa (D2)-Radovljica (D2) 79:72, Trzin (D3)-Logo Grosuplje (D2) 73:86.

*****************************************************
  SOUTH AFRICA   


Brazil, S. Africa advance with classification wins in wheelchair basketball - by Eurobasket News
Brazil and South Africa notched wins in the Paralympic men's wheelchair basketball classification games for places 9-12 on Friday at the National Indoor Stadium.

The winners will compete for 9th and 10th place on Tuesday at the National Indoor Stadium.

Brazilian centre Jose Marcos Silva and three of his teammates combined for 59 of their team's 75-56 victory over Sweden, including 48 points in the paint, 20 second chance points and 20 points from Sweden's 17 turnovers.

'We don't feel tired to compete continuously. We are here just to compete, and before the competitions we trained a lot, so we have adapted to the pace of the game. Although yesterday evening we just competed with China, this morning we are ready again,' said Everaldo Lima, Brazilian guard.

'We both did defence and offence well. Today we strengthened our defence, and good offence is the result of this.

'We got the good positions under the basket and had good defence, so we could get most of the rebounds.'

'We used to set our goal as getting into the top eight, but now, since it's impossible, we will just try to get the best ranking we can,' added he.

Swedish forward Peter Kohlstrom tied Silva as the game's highest scorer with 20 points, but no other Swedish player scored more than eight points.

South Africa overpowered China 67-60, stealing the ball 15 times and scoring 20 points from China's 20 turnovers.

S. African forward Richard Nortje was the game's highest scorer with 22 points.

'We came into this game a bit slow, but we put it together in the second half. We let them (China) have the first half, and that's why they came out fighting the way they did. If we had closed the game down in the first half, there would have been a lot less pressure on us in the second half,' said Nortje.

On the upcoming ninth-place game against Brazil, Nortje said: 'We gave the game to Japan (on Thursday), so we are looking to not make the same mistakes again.'

'We want to finish as strong as we can. Overall, this tournament is a much better achievement than any previous South African team has done before. All in all, it's been a good tournament.'

Chinese centre Ding Hai scored 20 points, but the Chinese team missed four of their last five shots in the fourth quarter to prevent a closer finish.

Sweden and China will compete for 11th and 12th place on Sunday.

Courtesy of http://english.people.com.cn/

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


Pre-Season Round Up (Friday 12 Sep Games) - by Paul Nilsen
It was a busy start to the weekend as far as pre-season challenges were concerned with no fewer than eight games involving ACB teams.

The most exciting game of the night was the derby game between DKV Joventut and Ricoh Manresa with the latter securing a thrilling 85-87 win against their more illustrious Euroleague neighbours. In an incredible game, Manresa found themselves trailing by 38-17 after ten minutes and then somehow held Badalona to just 8 points in the second quarter. Eventually coming out on top, Manresa will be delighted to overturn a 21 point deficit although Sito Alonso will be quick to point out that his team were without major stars with Ricky Rubio rested due to an injury concern that isnt said to be serious (more a precaution), Edu Hernandez-Sonseca out with gastric problems, Mensah-Bonsu and Bogdanovic still on Eurobasket duty. New signing Bracey Wright (191-G-84, college: Indiana) scored 20 points for Joventut while Manresa shared their scoring around with young talent Serge Ibaka impressing.

Iurbentia Bilbao got off the mark with their first victory of their warm-up to the new season with a comfortable 86-63 victory over Autocid Burgos of LEB Oro. Txus Vidoretta and his team were in blistering form from the tip off with a stunning 31-9 first quarter and never looked back. It was a great team display with 11 players getting serious minutes and Seibutis, Recker, Pasalic, Banic and Lewis all getting into double figures in the scoring stakes.

Perhaps a little bit of a shock for Pamesa Valencia who blew a 17-5 lead to slump to a really disappointing 70-62 loss against Polaris World Murcia who produced a first victory thanks to the superb inside work of Lamont Barnes (208-F/C-78, college: Temple) and Chris Moss (204-F-80, agency: Passing Lane, college: W.Virginia) who combined for 26 points. Tarjona meanwhile will be alarmed at their performance with only Kuqo and Martinez getting into double digits. Their problems were further compounded with injury problems with Dikoudis and Pietrus although Avdalovic did make a return to action.

Having been put to the sword by a flurry of three-pointers against Unicaja in Ronda just 24 hours earlier, Lithuanian side Lietuvos Rytas turned the tables on Cajasol by picking up a 92-98 victory with a great shooting display. With defence at a premium, Michal Ignerski scored 32 points for Seville but that wasnt enough to stop his team going down as the visitors wrapped up the win in the last three minutes holding Cajasol with some good defence. Veteran Elmer Bennett made a return to the court for the first time this season.

Barca cruised to a victory against Bundesliga club Giessen 46ers with a 69-91 victory. The German club were overpowered just after half time during a 21-8 run and 14 points from Juan Carlos Navarro helped the Catalans to another pre-season success.

Almost 3,000 fans watched Fuenlabrada claim a comfortable 75-61 win over CB Granada who are still searching for a win in pre-season. This time it was Saul Blanco who put them to the sword with 17 points. Interestingly it was a familiar story for Trifon Poch and his Granada players. An inability to break 30 points in the first half for a third successive game tells the story and they look worryingly short of firepower at this stage. Borchardt and Hunter scored 12 points each but as acb-basket.com hinted in their Ultimate Guide to the ACB, where are the rest of the points going to come from?

Another team featured in the Ultimate ((English language) ACB Guide at acb-basket.com is Bruesa and they went down to a disappointing 88-84 defeat to Ciudad De La Laguna despite 23 points from American Andy Panko (203-F-77, college: Lebanon Valley). A David Doblas triple got Bruesa close at the end but La Laguna got a free-throw to pick up a famous win.

*****************************************************
  TAIWAN   


Taiwan ninth place in Asian Junior Men - by Chris Wang
Sorry for late. I have been busy lately. Anyway, Taiwan Junior Men finished for the all-time worst ninth place in the Asian U-18 Championship which took place in Tehran, Iran.

While it's true that the results, which was the first time in history that Taiwan was out of the final eight, had a lot to do with the epic battle and a loss to the Philippines in two overtimes in the preliminary round, it was also undeniable that Taiwan's high school basketball has been down a bit these years.

After falling out of the quarterfinal round, Taiwan beat Saudi Arabia, 119-92, and India, 102-89, in the classification games before a 102-89 win over Jordan to finish for the ninth place.

Lee Ming-hui, the leading scorer on the team, had 26 points in the Jordan game while Chang Po-wei scored 19 and Lin Li-jen had 16 points.

Final ranking of the 2008 Asian U-18 Men's Championship:

1. Iran
2. Kazakhstan
3. Syria
4. Japan
5. China
6. Korea
7. Philippines
8. Lebanon
9. Taiwan
10. Jordan
11. Saudi Arabia
12. Hong Kong
13. India
14. UAE
15. Malaysia

Related links:
Wikipedia - FIBA Asia Under-18 Championship
FIBA Asia - Roster and game stats download (PDF)

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


Banvit to play in Licher Premium Cup - by Eurobasket News
Turkish Banvit will participate in Licher Premium Cup, Germany, September 12-13. The team was invited to play with Spanish Barcelona, German LTi Giessen and Croatian Cibona.
Recently Banvit lost to Deutsche Bank Skyliners Frankfurt 64:100. Frankfurt got off to a blazing start leading 4-0 on hoops from Derrick Allen (203-F-80, agency: Pro One Sports, college: Mississippi) and Anthony King (206-F/C, agency: Interperformances, college: Miami, FL). Derrick Allen is starting to get a small love affair with the outside shot as he is is using it more and more. With the score tied at 25, captain Pascal Roller hit a running floater and Frankfurt had a narrow 27:25 lead.Deutsche Bank Skyliners Frankfurt started the second quarter with a quick offensive outburst with a Shawan Robinson hoop and a Anthony King turn around shot. Derrick Allen made a lay in at the buzzer and Frankfurt led 49:36.In the third quarter Deutsche Bank Skyliners Frankfurt finally showed that there is no third quarter jinx as they jumped on Banvit Basketbol Kulubu like a hungry Lion looking for its lost dinner. Frankfurt scored 39 points and had absolutely no mercy. Frankfurt went on a 20 to 6 run and had the game as good as decided leading 69 to 43. Ilian Evtimov (201-F-83, agency: Interperformances, college: N.Carolina St.) led Frankfurt with 21 points, seven assists and three rebounds. American Anthony King had 13 points and six rebounds and could get more minutes if he continues to give output like that. Derrick Allen chipped in with 12 points.

*****************************************************
  UBL   


UBL KEVIN WINN( NBA DL NEXT) - by Ozzie Denson

Kevin Winn a defensive stopper on the UBL Wranglers. Will have his day next month as he take his game to the NBA DL. The UBL will be sending more players to the DL this year.
We are proud of Kevin and the other player on their way to the DL. The UBL is a league that produces outstanding Players and Coaches. Visit or site at www.ublhoops.com or www.ublwranglers.com
The UBL will start their Tryouts in October 2008.



*****************************************************
  UGANDA   


Canons face Sadolin in FUBA league - by Eurobasket News
Thursday (schedule): Basketball league
Men
Miracle v KIU
Power v Canons

Ladies
Amazon v A1

Results:
Men
Lions 53 C. High 49

Ladies
A1 98 C. High 32
Canons 75 Cubs 46

IT will be second against third in the mens MTN-FUBA basketball league when the UCU Canons take on Sadolin Power at Lugogo Indoor Stadium tonight.

The Canons have slighlty erased a poor first round by winning their first two matches after the recess to move up to second place in the standings.

Power on the other hand sit in third position, one point behind the Canons, although have played a game less than their Mukono-based University rivals.

Victory will take Power level on 19 points with the Canons. Kyambogo Warriors lead the annual competition with 21 points.

Courtesy of http://www.newvision.co.ug/

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


Friendly games - by Eurobasket News
More and more we hear from Ukrainian teams getiting ready for the upcoming season. ViveMenorca just cant get a win in pre-season and perhaps thought facing opposition from outside the ACB might help in their quest to achieve a morale boosting win. However they fell yet again, this time to Ukrainian outfit Dontesk by 79:91. Ricard Casas could at least be hearted that on a night when Mario Stojic scored only three points, point guard Eugene Jeter (179-G-83, agency: CAA Sports, college: Portland) came alive with 17 points. Tecker was unstoppable for the Ukrainian side with 27 points. Kryvych and Andryukaytis nailed 13 points each.
At first Khimik overcame Sakalai 90:67 on September 11th. For the Ukrainian team it was the third victory in Lithuania out of four played. Khimik made 18 steals as well as 24 turnovers in the game. The main coach mentioned that it was too much and that the team would work on that. Andrei Korochkin (194-G-82) paced all the winners with 17 points, 3 rebounds and 3 assists. Chakin nailed 15, while Kelly had 12 as well a 4 assists.
Mykolaiv beat Lithuanian Sakalai after 104:99. Hilevych Ivan led the winners with 20 points. Rayevskyy Aleksandr, and Glebovskiy added 18 points apiece and Yailo had 15.
Nerijus Varnelis (200-F-78) led Alitus over Sumihimprom 110:103. In an offensive game Lithuanian team looked better as Nerijus Varnelis ended up with 27 points.

*****************************************************
  URBL   


Converse Presents Logo - by Mac Claire
Converse, TX - One day after the URBL unveiled its logo, the Converse Flight followed their lead.
The logo reveals the team colors, navy blue, light blue, and some red and white just for good measure.
A red jet is neatly placed between white clouds with stars and a dark sky in the background.
An outline of the state of Texas with a basketball marking where the city of Converse is - just outside of San Antonio.
The name 'Flight' fits because of the close proximity to Randolph Airforce Base.
'It honors the troops,' CEO Mac Claire said, 'and with the our nation's colors to go along with the plane over Texas,
I think it pays proper homage to everyone.'

*****************************************************
  URUGUAY   


New import players were announced - by Hector Lopez
Four new import players were announced to be playing the Uruguayan League- Cameron Echols (203-F-81, agency: Warren Sports International, college: Ball St.) will play for Cordon replacing Sam Carey (203-C, agency: Passing Lane), Marlon Martinez (204-F/C-79) will return to Union Atletica to replace Jemino Sobers (201-F-84, college: Cent.Conn.St.), Tang Hamilton (201-F-78, agency: HM Sports Agency, college: Mississippi St.) will play for Bigua while Kevin Young (206-C-84, college: Missouri) recovered from an injury, and Cline-Heard Gyasi (202-F-79, college: Penn St.) will sign with Paysandu. Cline-Heard already won the LUB 2004 title, playing for Salto Uruguay.

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


Carlos Morris back to Deportivo San Jose in Paraguay - by Francisco Vega
Barquisimeto, Venezuela.- Venezuelan shooting guard Carlos Morris (194-G-75) signed to play for a second straight season in Paraguay's first division basketball, as he was called back by the powerful Deportivo San Jose in order to fight for bonus points towards the new season against the other powerful organization in that country, Sol de America.

Morris, a 32 year-old former member of Venezuela's Senior NT, played for Deportivo Tachira in LPB 2008 and averaged 12.6 points, 2.8 rebounds, 2.2 assists and 1.7 steals in 49 matches. He also has experience in the United States with South West Texas State from 1997 to 1999, later on he played in Spain's LEB2 with Valls Felix Hotel from 2002 till 2003 and last year he played for the first time in Paraguay. He's also worn the uniforms of Cocodrilos de Caracas, Marinos de Anzoategui, Toros de Aragua and Gatos de Monagas in Venezuela's top league.

Morris debuted with 12 points coming off the bench as he had just arrived a couple of hours before the match to the city of Asuncion. His team lost 91-75 against Sol de America. Top scorers for San Jose were Gustavo Torres (175-G-80) with 14 points, Roberto Laratro (198-C-82) with 13, Morris with 12 and Thiago Moroso with 10. For Sol de America, Guillermo Araujo (204-C-82) netted 32 points and Renzo Ferrari (191-G/F-84) added 16.

Axiers Sucre keeps on shining in Argentinian Cup - by Francisco Vega
Barquisimeto, Venezuela.- Venezuelan power forward Axiers Sucre (198-F-78) continued his streak of success in the 2008 edition of the Argentinian Cup, as he netted 17 points and led his team, Union de Sunchales, to a victory, 78-75, over Ben Hur Rafaela, in matchday 5 of Group 1.

Sucre lifted his team back in the fight after a tough loss in the previous match, 82-47, against city rivals Libertad de Sunchales. In that match he had scored 22 points with 9 rebounds in an effort that was just not enough.

Meanwhile, Carlos Cedeno (193-G/F-85) is having a different sort of luck. 'Margarito' netted only 6 points as a starter in a triumph of Club Lanus against the powerful Boca Juniors, 86-71. Both Nathan Mielke and him have started to raise questions and his head coach might want some changes if they don't produce a little bit more points in the upcoming Cup matches.

Romero and Torres lost first match against Cimberio Varese - by Francisco Vega
Barquisimeto, Venezuela.- Venezuelans Hector Romero (202-F-80) and Oscar Torres (195-F/G-76), players of Italy's Lega A team Snaidero Udine, lost their first match in the preseason in five outings, as they were surprised in Memorial Fermi exhibition match by Cimberio Varese, 81-70.

Romero was among the top scorers of the night with 18 points, the same amount of American Rashad Anderson (195-G/F-83), while Torres was a starter but scored 7 points, and so did Jermaine Jackson (195-G-76). For the winning side, Randolph Childress (190-G-72) netted 18 points, Niccolo Martinoni (202-G/F-89) added 15 points, Giacomo Galanda (211-F/C-75) followed with 14 and Giorgio Boscagin (195-G-83) added 10.

Miguel Marriaga defeated in Colombia - by Francisco Vega
Barquisimeto, Venezuela.- Venezuelan center Miguel Angel Marriaga (207-C-84) scored 19 points and was able to score from the short and long distance, but his supply of points was not enough for Bucaros de Bucaramanga (2-2), his team in Colombia's Copa Invitacional, as they lost against Indervalle Cali (3-1), 81-55.

Marriaga and countryman Cruz Salcedo (190-G-74) play for the current champions of the country, who've won back to back titles in 2006 and 2007 but have had a tough start this season, as other teams have progressed and hired better imported players. Cali's top scorer was DaJuan Gouard (189-G-83) with 19 points.

At the top of the standings appears Arrieros de Antioquia (81-55), a team that includes Venezuelans Diego Guevara (184-G-77) and Heberth Bayona (211-C-78) in their roster and extended their winning streak to four matches by taking down OVNI Tenjo, 98-88 and 88-83. Jermaine Walker (198-F-77) and Norbey Aragon (193-G/F-78) are the top scorers for Antioquia.

Meanwhile, Norte de Santander (3-1), former Canoneros de Cucuta and coached by Puerto Ricans Julio Toro and Ramon Melendez , have managed to start off very well on the road, as they defeated Piratas de Bogota (0-4) twice, 96-93 and 80-75. Edgar Moreno (191-G-81) and Ryan Carroll (195-G/F-79) have been at the top of their game so far and Venezuelan Eduardo Torres (195-F-81) has supported them with great defensive skills. This team also has Venezuelan Juan Manaure (188-G-79) in their roster.

In another match up, the San Andres Islanders (3-1) took down Patriotas de Tunja (0-4) in a couple of games, 85-59 and 104-94, based on the attack of Stalin Ortiz (191-G-81) and Kevin Sowell (190-G-81). For Tunja, Ernesto Mijares (190-G-76) was the starting guard.

Juan Herrera leaves Duros, joins Mexico's Santos Reales de San Luis - by Francisco Vega
Barquisimeto, Venezuela.- Venezuelan forward Juan Herrera (197-F-81) decided to sign a contract as latin american imported player for Santos Reales de San Luis de Potosi, of Mexico's Liga Nacional de Baloncesto Profesional (LNBP), and decided to leave the leading team in Venezuela's Liga Nacional de Baloncesto (LNB), Duros de Lara, after eight matches as a starter for coach Ivan Garcia.

It's the fifth player that Duros lost to the international market, since Miguel Angel Marriaga (207-C-84) chose to play in Colombia and Carlos Cedeno (193-G/F-85) did the same thing as he went to Argentina during the offseason, while others, such as Diego Guevara (184-G-77) and Jose Juan Bravo (200-C-80), went off to Colombia and Mexico after just a couple of matches with Duros. The maximum salary rule that has been applied in LNB has allowed several Venezuelan players to explore their international value and test themselves somewhere else.

Herrera has played internationally before, as he played in the 2007 season of Dominican Republic's LIDOBA league with Indios de San Francisco. Duros are negotiating to shorten the vacations of Kevin Palacios (203-F/C-84), currently in the United States, so he can inmediately replace Herrera. They also expect to have an imported center for the upcoming series against Graneros de Portuguesa, though they might be negotiating with former Venezuela's Senior NT center Pablo Machado (207-C-77) to bring him into the mix.



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

Women News

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


Wauters explodes with 17 points and 15 boards - by Eurobasket News
Ann Wauters (194-C-80) had a great game for her team in WNBA last night. The San Antonio Silver Stars dealt with the Connecticut Sun at home to secure the top finish in the Western conference. Sophia Young came up with a pivotal performance of 24 points and 7 rebounds to pace the hosts to a 78:74 victory. Ann Wauters and Rebecca Hammon added 17 points apiece for the winners. San Antonio also posted a perfect 14-0 record against the Eastern conference teams in the regular season. Asjha Jones answered with 18 points for the Sun as they slipped to 20-13 record. It was the third straight loss for once Eastern conference leading squad. Tamika Whitmore added 12 points in defeat. Connecticut played without Lindsay Whalen. Connecticut led 72:71 with just over two minutes left in regulation however Rebecca Hammon nailed 7 points in the closing minutes to lift the home team to the win.
Before San Antonio Silver Stars beat New York 82:76 away from home. Carson's 3-pointer gave the Liberty their last lead, 47:44 in the third quarter.
San Antonio then went on a 12-2 run, taking the lead for good on Johnson's layup with 5:09 to go in the period. Hammon's 3 pushed the lead to 56:49 with about 2 minutes left. Davenport hit two free throws to pull New York to 62:59 in the fourth quarter, but that was as close as the Liberty got. Ann Wauters had 11 points and 10 rebounds for the winners.

Standings - Women
D1 Standings
Div.A
 1. Dexia 5-1 
 2. Waregem 4-2 
 3. BBC Boom 3-3 
 4. N.Namur 0-6 
Div.B
 1. Sint Kateline 2-0 
 2. Point Chaud 2-2 
 3. Houthalen 1-1 
 4. Monceau 1-2 
 5. Runkster 0-2 


*****************************************************
  D.R. CONGO - Women  


Canons face Sadolin in FUBA league - by Eurobasket News
Thursday (schedule): Basketball league

Men
Miracle v KIU
Power v Canons

Ladies
Amazon v A1

Results:
Men
Lions 53 C. High 49

Ladies
A1 98 C. High 32
Canons 75 Cubs 46


IT will be second against third in the mens MTN-FUBA basketball league when the UCU Canons take on Sadolin Power at Lugogo Indoor Stadium tonight.

The Canons have slighlty erased a poor first round by winning their first two matches after the recess to move up to second place in the standings.

Power on the other hand sit in third position, one point behind the Canons, although have played a game less than their Mukono-based University rivals.

Victory will take Power level on 19 points with the Canons. Kyambogo Warriors lead the annual competition with 21 points.

Courtesy of http://www.newvision.co.ug/

*****************************************************
  GERMANY - Women  


Wildcats land Nica Gemo - by Moritz Korff
The BC Wolfenbuettel Wildcats (DBBL) reacted to the exit of Whitney Lewis (183-F-86, college: Wright St.) and signed Nica Gemo (196-C-82, college: San Jose St.) for the up and coming season. The 25-year-old Mozambique international comes off a season in Spanish basketball. She averaged 10 points and 7.8 rebounds through 23 games for Jovent Palma (LF2). Before she took her game to Spain, Gemo suited up for MTSV Schwabing and Muenchen Basket in Germany's first league. Gemo will probably wear a Wildcat uniform for the first time today, when Wolfenbuettel takes on the Polish club AZS Gorzow in an exhibition game.
Meanwhile, Coach Heiko Bischoff is still waiting for Elena Chernyi (191-F/C-79) to arrive. The 29-year-old Czech is set to be the final addition to the 2008-09 roster.

Standings - Women
DBBL Standings
1. Saarlouis 0-0
2. Wasserburg 0-0
3. Leipzig 0-0
4. Goettingen 0-0
5. Marburg 0-0
6. Oberhausen 0-0
7. Wolfenbuettel 0-0
8. Freiburg 0-0
9. Chemnitz 0-0
10. Halle

0-0

11. Herne

0-0

12. Donau-Ries

0-0



*****************************************************
  NCAA1 - Women  


Allie Quigley nominated for NCAA Woman of Year - by Eurobasket News
INDIANAPOLIS -- The NCAA has announced the 130 conference and independent nominees for its 18th annual Woman of the Year award. The nominees represent all three divisions and have excelled in academics, athletics, leadership and community service.

Former DePaul women's basketball student-athlete Allie Quigley (5'11''-G-86, college: De Paul) was one of two BIG EAST student-athletes nominated for the 18th annual NCAA Woman of the Year Award. Quigley concluded her DePaul career last season and is currently playing for the Phoenix Mercury in the WNBA.

The top 10 honorees per Division will be announced later this month followed by the selection of the top three honorees per division. The Woman of the Year will be announced at an awards dinner in Indianapolis on October 19.

Honorees are selected based on academic achievement, service and leadership activities, athletics excellence, and a personal statement describing benefits she has gained from her experience as a student-athlete.

To be eligible for this honor, female student-athlete must have earned a varsity letter in an NCAA-sponsored sport and competed during the 2007-08 academic year. Each individual must have completed intercollegiate eligibility in her primary sport by the end of the 2008 spring season and carry a minimum cumulative grade-point average of 2.5.

Courtesy of http://depaul.scout.com/

*****************************************************
  NIGERIA - Women  


Detroit gets 11 points from Sanni - by Eurobasket News
Olayinka Sanni (188-C-86, college: W.Virginia) together with her Detroit Shock capitalized on the Connecticuts loss to clinch the title in the East. Kara Braxton notched 15 points for the Shock as they held off the Washington Mystics 78:66. Plenette Pierson provided 12 points for the winners. The Mystics lost the 7th straight game. Alana Beard scored 16 points for the Mystics as they fell to 10-22 record. Detroit now have to win against New York to have a home-court advantage against Los Angeles in the possible Finals. Olayinka Sanni made 3 rebounds and 1 assist.
Detroit will take on Indiana in the opening round of the playoffs and meanwhile their opponents took care of the New York Liberty 74:59 at home. Tammy Sutton-Brown produced 16 points to pace the Fever. Latanya White added 13 points for the winners that saw limited minutes for the teams leaders. Jessica Davenport answered with 12 points for the Liberty.
Before that the Phoenix Mercury became the first WNBA champion to miss the playoffs as they fell short to the Detroit Shock at the Palace of Auburn Hills. Deanna Nolan knocked down 18 points, while Katie Smith had 17 as the Shock rallied to a 89:78 victory. Olayinka Sanni exploded with 11 points.

*****************************************************
  RUSSIA - Women  


Kursk invites to International tournament - by Eurobasket News
Kursk will host the International tournament, September 13-15. The Russian team invited Ukrainian Tim-Skuf and Dnipro as well as Minsk-2006 from Belarus.
It will be a great start of the new season as all the teams are on the way to preparation games of the upcoming season. Last year Dynamo Kursk finished the regular season with 9-13 record that was the 8th spot. In the play-offs the team could not compete with the champions, Spartak. The next season the Russian team will participate in EuroCup. EuroCup Women will have 58 teams altogether in 2008/2009 years. Thirty eight teams will qualify automatically for the Preliminary Round. Russia and Spain will have more than any other country representatives, 5. In the Qualifying Round 20 teams will beat for 10 spots in 12 groups created. Dynamo Kursk will play in Group B with Bnot Hasharon from Israel, Challes from France and Romanian Sf.Gheorghe.
Three other teams of the tournament in Kursk are well known from Baltic League. Recently it was decided that Baltic League will have 18 teams this upcoming season. Minsk-2006 will be one of four representatives from Belarus next year. Tim-Scuf and Dnipro will play for Ukraine in the tournament.
Eurobasket will keep you update about the event in Russia and post the breaking news on our website.

*****************************************************
  SERBIA - Women  


Crucial game for Team Serbia today at 17h - by Dragan Jankovski
Team Serbia today at 17h plays against Bulgaria on the road in decisive game of Eurobasket 2009 qualifications. After two opening defeats due to inexperience, Serbia started to play much better. Marija Eric (164-G-83) and here teammates played patiently and mature against Greece in Athens as well as in the last round against Belgium opening doors for Eurobasket 2009. The last obstacle on that way is Bulgaria. Head coach of the team Jovica Antonic faced with a problem before the game. Namely, Ana Perovic (197-C-78) is under the big question mark due to health problems. She played against Belgium in the last one but she had strong pains after that.

Before the trip to Bulgaria Jovica Antonic said: 'We won't change to many things for tonight. Our destiny is in our hands, what is good. We are going to win. If we give 100%, as we done until now, I will be satisfied. I hope it will be enough for the win but if not we have that game between Greece and Belgium. If Greece win we are going to Eurobasket 2009. Even if we loose and Belgium win in Greece we have additional qualifications in January.'

As a reminder two top teams from each group will qualify for Eurobasket 2009 as well as third best team in total. All other third and fourth ranked teams will play in Additional Qualification Round.

*****************************************************
  SOUTH AFRICA - Women  


NBA teaches African girls the right moves on and off the court - by Eurobasket News
When Jennifer Azzi, a retired professional basketball player and Olympic medalist, tells you how to steal the ball, you listen.

And when she tells a group of South African teenage girls at a basketball clinic how to protect themselves against sexual harassment, peer pressure, or drugs they listen, too.

'Your bodies are a wonderful thing, so always take care of yourselves,' she tells a group of 10th-grade athletes from various schools in the Johannesburg area. 'Each of you were brought into this world to make the world better.'

In South Africa where conservative social practices such as polygamy exist side by side with laws of gender empowerment such words of encouragement from a successful woman athlete can be a powerful thing. Ms. Azzi's tour of the African continent, sponsored by the National Basketball Association's (NBA) 'Basketball Without Borders' program, is a first-ever effort to reach out to young women athletes in Africa, giving them hope, ball-handling skills, and crucial advice on how to make it in a man's world.

Azzi's trip to South Africa, and later this week to Tanzania, is a trial of sorts an expansion of the NBA's normal outreach to talented young African males, both to foster interest in the sport and to find the next African generation of Manut Bols, Dikembe Mutombos, and Hakeem 'the Dream' Olajuwons. This year, for the first time, the NBA is reaching out to young African women players as well, at a time when the women's game here is only just now finding its place.

'The unfortunate thing is that it's a long shot for these kids, just as much as it is for kids in the States, so I can't encourage them to go professional. But as women, these girls are going to be the leaders and they have to know how to look after themselves,' says Azzi, a former point guard for Stanford University's national championship team, for the gold-medal winning 1996 US Olympic team in Atlanta, and for WNBA teams such as the Detroit Shock and the San Antonio Silver Stars.

Sitting on the sidelines of a final match between an all-star lineup of boys from some 22 African countries, she pauses to admire a perfect slam-dunk by a kid from Cameroon.

Even for these boys, she sighs, 'the percentage of them making it into the NBA, or for those girls making it in the WNBA [Women's National Basketball Association], is very slim. But just getting them to be active, gives them a lot of confidence owning your own body and being healthy, it's critical.'

Back on the women's courts two outdoor tarmac courts at the American International School of Johannesburg Azzi leads a clinic to teach some 80 teenage women how to do layups, how to pass, and how to assume the perfect defensive stance. Some of the girls are rusty, to be sure, but having Azzi around has a way of elevating their game.

After sharpening their ball-handling skills, under the gaze of coaches from the Boston Celtics and the San Antonio Spurs, the girls work on life-skills with a local sports-and-empowerment group called 'Hoops for Hope.'

Thabo Marotola, a 'Hoops' counselor, interrupts a dribbling game where one team tries to take away the ball from the other. She asks the girls how they defend themselves on the court, and how they defend themselves and their bodies out on the streets.

'Your body is a temple,' says Mr. Marotola. 'Say no to what you don't want to do.'

The girls form a huddle and shout their most assertive 'no!'

Heading to a school cafeteria after the clinic, Olive Tshilomba a 10th-grader from Marysville College in Johannesburg says she loves basketball even more than she did before. 'I never thought I'd learn so much about life from basketball,' she says. 'They are trying to link sports with the way we feel about ourselves, and make sure everyone has a part in life. We're worth something.'

Gugu Khumalo, another 10th-grader from Marysville, says that in the old days, soccer was the only sport many South Africans played. Now, she says, basketball is getting more popular among her friends. She feels fortunate that her family and friends are supportive, and never ask her, 'why would a girl by playing basketball?'

It wasn't that long ago that Jennifer Azzi faced that same question growing up in Oak Ridge, Tenn. In 1990, when she graduated from Stanford, there was no WNBA, no professional women basketball players. She and her generation had to imagine a future when women's basketball would be taken seriously, on the same level as men.

'If you can see it, you can achieve it,' Azzi tells the girls at the end of the clinic. 'You girls are going to be leaders. You are athletes. Embrace it.'

Courtesy of http://ca.news.yahoo.com/

*****************************************************
  UGANDA - Women  


Canons face Sadolin in FUBA league - by Eurobasket News
Thursday (schedule): Basketball league

Men
Miracle v KIU
Power v Canons

Ladies
Amazon v A1

Results:
Men
Lions 53 C. High 49

Ladies
A1 98 C. High 32
Canons 75 Cubs 46


IT will be second against third in the mens MTN-FUBA basketball league when the UCU Canons take on Sadolin Power at Lugogo Indoor Stadium tonight.

The Canons have slighlty erased a poor first round by winning their first two matches after the recess to move up to second place in the standings.

Power on the other hand sit in third position, one point behind the Canons, although have played a game less than their Mukono-based University rivals.

Victory will take Power level on 19 points with the Canons. Kyambogo Warriors lead the annual competition with 21 points.

Courtesy of http://www.newvision.co.ug/

*****************************************************
  WNBA - Women  


Standings
WNBA Western Standings
 1. S.Antonio SS 22-8 
 2. Seattle S. 19-10 
 3. Detroit S. 19-10 
 4. Connect. S. 19-13 
 5. L.Angeles S. 17-11 
 6. New York L. 16-13 
 7. Sacram. M. 16-13 
 8. Phoenix M. 14-15 
 9. Houston C. 13-15 
 10. Indiana F. 13-15 
 11. Minnesota L. 12-16 
 12. Chicago Sky 12-18 
 13. Washingt. M. 9-20 
 14. Charlotte S. 0-0 


WNBA announces 2008 Eastern Conference semifinal schedule - by Eurobasket News
With six of the eight playoff teams locked into specific seeds, including the four participants from the Eastern Conference, the WNBA announced today the schedule for the Eastern Conference Semifinal games, with the 2008 WNBA Playoffs beginning Thursday, Sept. 18.

For the second consecutive year, the Detroit Shock secured the top playoff spot in the Eastern Conference and will face the No. 4-seed Indiana Fever. The Indiana-Detroit series will get underway Friday, Sept. 19, at 7 p.m. ET in Indiana. The series will move to Detroit for Game 2 on Sunday, Sept. 21, with a deciding Game 3, if necessary, in Detroit on Tuesday, Sept. 23. The series opener can be seen on NBA TV, while the final two games will air on ESPN2.

In the second Eastern Conference Semifinal series the No. 2-seed Connecticut Sun will face the New York Liberty, who finished third. That series will commence at 7 p.m. ET on Thursday, Sept. 18, in New York. The series will shift to Connecticut for Game 2 and, if necessary, Game 3. The second game will be Saturday, Sept. 20, at 7 p.m. ET with Game 3 on Monday, Sept. 22 at 7 p.m. ET. The first two games of the series will air on NBA TV while ESPN2 will telecast Game 3.

In the Western Conference, the San Antonio Silver Stars clinched the top spot, as well as home court advantage throughout the Playoffs and Finals, and the Seattle Storm secured the No. 2 seed. The final two playoff seeds are still up for grabs between the Los Angeles Sparks (currently in third place) and the Sacramento Monarchs.

Additional scheduling information will be furnished in the days to come. For Playoff schedule updates and for the opportunity to purchase tickets, fans should visit http://www.wnba.com.


2008 EASTERN CONFERENCE SEMIFINALS PLAYOFF SCHEDULE

Detroit vs. Indiana National

Game Date Opponent Local Eastern Broadcast

Game 1 Friday, Sept. 19 Detroit at Indiana 7 p.m. 7 p.m. NBA TV

Game 2 Sunday, Sept. 21 Indiana at Detroit 3 p.m. 3 p.m. ESPN2

Game 3* Tuesday, Sept. 23 Indiana at Detroit TBD TBD ESPN2


Connecticut vs. New York National

Game Date Teams Local Eastern Broadcast

Game 1 Thursday, Sept. 18 Connecticut at New York 7 p.m. 7 p.m. NBA TV

Game 2 Saturday, Sept. 20 New York at Connecticut 7 p.m. 7 p.m. NBA TV

Game 3* Monday, Sept. 22 New York at Connecticut 7 p.m. 7 p.m. ESPN2

Courtesy of WNBA

Career-high numbers highlight Seattle win over Atlanta - by Eurobasket News
Camille Little (6'2''-F/G-85, college: N.Carolina) and Katie Gearlds (6'1''-G/F-84, college: Purdue) registered career-high digits and lifted the Seattle Storm past the Atlanta Dream 77:72 yesterday. The defeat sent the Dream to the league worst regular season record as they slipped to 4-30. In 2006 Chicago finished the season at 5-29. Seattle played without their leader Sue Bird but still managed to secure the best home-record in the league improving to 16-1 at the Key Arena. Tamera Young (6'2''-G-86, college: JMU) knocked down 20 points for the Dream. Seattle led by just a single point after three quarters of action but ran away for good in the fourth.
New York got 27 points from Shameka Christon (6'1''-G/F-82, college: Arkansas) to prevail 69:62 against the Chicago Sky. Erlana Larkins had 12 points, while Jessica Davenport added 10 points and 10 rebounds for the winners. Candice Dupree (6'2''-F/C-84, college: Temple) answered with 18 points for the Sky. Shameka Christon buried a go-ahead three-pointer with 23 seconds remaining in regulation. The Liberty then sealed the winning outcome. Janel Mccarville missed the third straight game for the Liberty. New York will face Connecticut in the Eastern conference semis.
The Phoenix Mercury secured the 16th win in the season as they held off the Minnesota Lynx 96:87 on the road. Diana Taurasi (6'0''-G-82, college: Connecticut) accounted for 31 points, while Cappie Pondexter (5'9''-G-83, college: Rutgers) nailed 23 to pace the Mercury. Lindsay Harding notched 20 points for the Lynx as the fell to 15-18 record in the season. Seimone Augustus and Candice Wiggins missed the game for the hosts.

Storm's Bird, Sun's Whalen top MVP candidates - by Eurobasket News
San Antonio's Becky Hammon came close last year, finishing second as Seattle forward Lauren Jackson earned her second MVP honor. And while Hammon merits consideration again this year, most of the buzz has centered around the Storm's Sue Bird (5'9''-G-80, college: Connecticut) and Connecticut's Lindsay Whalen (5'8''-G-82, college: Minnesota).

'If you ask me', Seattle coach Brian Agler said, 'and I may be a little biased, Sue Bird is hands down the MVP of this league. She sets the standard for our team and she is important in everything we do'.

Agler may be right.

Consider this: Bird has averaged 17.5 points in 11 games since Jacksonthe teams leading scorer and rebounderleft to join the Australian Olympic team in mid-July. Bird was averaging 12.9 points before that, and while Jackson is out for the rest of the season following surgery on her right ankle, the Storm are 7-4 without her and entered the final weekend 1 1/2 games behind first-place San Antonio in the Western Conference.

Theres a strong case for Whalen, as well. Shes averaging 14.0 points, 5.4 assists and 5.6 rebounds, and is set to join Nikki Teasley (2003) as the only players in league history to average at least 10.0, 5.0 and 5.0, respectively.

In her fifth season, Whalen has become the Suns marquee player after losing several veterans -Taj McWilliams-Franklin and Katie Douglas to trades, and Nykesha Sales to injuries - over the last two years.

However, Asjha Jones (17.0 points, 6.1 rebounds) has stepped up her production after moving into the starting lineup last year, and Tamika Whitmore (12.6 points, 4.8 rebounds) has been solid after coming over in the trade that sent Douglas to Indiana in the offseason.

In all due respect to Lindsay, who I think is a great player and an MVP candidate and things like that Connecticut is more than just what Lindsay provides, Agler said. They have good players across the board.

Limited by a sprained ankle, Whalen was scoreless on two shots with three rebounds and three assists in a 26-point win at Indiana in the first game after the Olympic break. The following night, she had five points on 1-for-6 shooting with four rebounds and eight assists in another 26-point victory at Atlanta. Whalen then sat out the Suns 80-76 win at home against Seattle two days later to rest the ankle.

This year, the WNBA is including fan voting for the regular-season MVP award on the leagues Web site, becoming the first major pro team sports league to do so. A number of leagues include fan voting for All-Star games and for finals MVP, etc., but the WNBA is the only one to include fan voting as part of the decision making process for the regular season MVP.

The fan voting, will conclude on Monday and account for 25 percent of the total with a nationwide media panel making up the remaining 75 percent.

There are plenty of other players whove had great seasons, including Diana Taurasi, Cappie Pondexter, Candace Parker and Seimone Augustus. However, none of their teams stood out.

Taurasi (24.1 ppg) and Pondexter (21.1) have been the leagues top two scorers much of the season, but without Penny Taylor the defending champion Mercury have been a last-place team in the West.

Parker (18.8 points, 9.7 rebounds) should easily win the Rookie of the Year award, but the Sparks also got three-time MVP Lisa Leslie (15.5 points, 9.1 rebounds, 3.0 blocks) back this year. Besides, they are third in the West after being the overwhelming favorites to win the championship.

Augustus is averaging 19.1 points but the Lynx, who also had rookie Candice Wiggins (15.7 points, 3.2 rebounds, 3.0 assists)a strong Sixth Woman of the Year candidatefinished out of the playoffs again.

Hammon was the runner-up last year after posting career highs of 18.8 points and 5.0 assists to go along with 2.8 rebounds in her first season in San Antonio. Her numbers are down slightly this season, but the Silver Stars also are a more balanced team.

Youve got Sophia Young, who you can make arguments for, San Antonio coach Dan Hughes said. Youve got Becky, and Ann Wauters has been added to it. They share the ball, they share the credit.

Young has increased her scoring average from 16.8 to 17.8, and San Antonio added the veteran center Wauters (14.6 points and 7.6 rebounds) in the offseason. The Silver Stars won 20 games last season in Hammons first year with the team, and has a franchise-record 23 wins with one game remaining this year.

For her part, even Hammon deflected some of the attenion when asked for her choice for MVP, saying: I think you gotta take a look at Sophia Young.

Courtesy of http://sports.yahoo.com/