EUROBASKET NEWS REPORT - 9/26/2008

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Men News

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  ABA   


Express sign former Harlem Ambassador Angel Branch - by Eurobasket News
The ABA Jersey Express have added former Harlem Ambassador and Alabama State University forward, Angel Branch, to the roster for the 2008-2009 season.

Branch, out of Staten Island NY, played his college basketball from 1998 to 2000, between Western Community College and Alabama State University. While at Alabama State, he earned his Bachelors Degree in Criminal Justice.

'I am truly honored to have the opportunity to pursue my passion of playing professional basketball with the Jersey Express. It has always been my dream to play pro-ball in front of my home crowd, and now this dream has become a reality,' stated Branch. 'I cannot begin to express how excited and grateful I am for this chance. Thank you Management and Coaches for this opportunity...I look forward to starting the 2008-2009 season with your organization.'

'We look forward to Angel coming in and filling a huge rebounding role for us,' stated team President Marsha Blount. 'He's active, versatile and runs the floor well, and at 6'8' he finishes strong around the basket. He should be a force in the paint for us.'

Branch has a unique opportunity to work on his game under NBA veteran and Head Coach Larry 'Ice' Reynolds. Reynolds, who is still very active with the NBA Retired Players Association, will have a huge impact on Angel's game and hopes to get looks from the league.

Season tickets are available online at www.jerseyexpress.net or by calling the Express office at 973 586 0006 . For more information on the team or to contact Coach Reynolds, visit www.jerseyexpress.net or www.abalive.com.

Courtesy of the Jersey Express

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  AUSTRALIA   


Adelaide stay perfect at the start - by Eurobasket News
The Adelaide 36ers secured the perfect start to their NBL campaign with a 99:89 win over the Sydney Spirit. Adam Ballinger knocked down 21 points and 8 rebounds for the 36ers. Mark Tyndale (196-G-86, agency: CAA Sports, college: Temple) exploded with 30 points and 15 rebounds to lead the the winners. The Spirit in the meantime fell to 18 points from Liam Rush. Derrick Low provided 16 points in defeat.
The Spirit jumped to a 27:13 lead after the starting frame and kept the lead throughout the second period. The visitors arrived at halftime leading by 9 points however the 36ers used an 11:0 outburst to draw things level at 54 in the third frame. Mark Tyndale ensured a 13-point haul in the third quarter and the 36ers held to a 3-point lead before the final quarter. The Spirit could not match the effort and had to surrender at the end. Aaron Bruce had 20 points for the winners.
In the meantime the New Zealand Breakers overcame a 32-point night from Chris Anstey (213-C-75) to knock down the Melbourne Tigers 120:111 yesterday. The teams stayed close throughout the first half with New Zealand leading by just a single point 59:58 at halftime. Melbourne went on a run to clear off to a 4-point advantage early in the third quarter. The Breakers regained the advantage at three-quarter time and then stretched it 8 points with two trebles from Tony Ronaldson (203-F/C-72). Later in the game Oscar Forman (205-G/F-82) added two three-pointers and the Breakers ran away with the win. Tony Ronaldson, CJ Bruton (188-G-75, college: Indian Hills CC) and Oscar Forman all scored 23 points apiece for the winners. Chris Anstey answered with 32 points, while Ebi Ere (195-G/F-81, college: Oklahoma) had 19 points in the loss.

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  AUSTRIA   


Furstenfeld win Kontext Cup in Czech Republic - by Eurobasket News
Furstenfeld clinched the title at the Kontext Cup in Czech Republic. The exhibition tournament featured Geofin and Pardubice from Czech Republic as well as Pezinok from Slovakia. After two victories over Czech teams Furstenfeld continued their winning streak against Pezinok in the third round. The Panthers looked solid and jumped ahead early in the game. Furstenfeld ensured a 29:24 advantage after the opening stanza. Pezinok were unable to cut the deficit and they trailed by as many as 6 points at halftime. Furstenfeld mounted the pressure and did not allow Pezinok to come any closer in the third quarter. The Panthers led by 7 points at the start of the fourth quarter and rolled to a comfortable victory at the end. J.J. Sullinger (196-G-82, agency: 540 Sports, college: Ohio St.) chipped in 19 points for Furstenfeld. Slobodan Ocokoljic (202-F-80, college: Weber St.) provided 15 points, while Dragan Miletic (195-G-82, agency: Globalsports/Globalevents) topcored with 21 points for the winners. Andrej Lukjanec (203-F/C-69) answered with 24 points for Pezinok. Peter Micuda (206-C-72) buried 11 points in the loss.
Meanwhile the Oberwart Gunners lost to Dombovar in the exhibition encounter. The Hungarian team appeared stronger 82:54. They got to a 27:11 start to the game and never looked back afterwards. Milan Stegnjaic (205-F/C-82) poured in 14 points for the Gunners. Hannes Artner (185-G-84) and Stout added 11 points apiece in the loss.
Kraftwerk Wels lost to Kotwica 65:86 in Czech Republic. Casey Archibald (193-G-84, agency: Pro Agents-Basketball Careers) provided 21 points, while Brandon Thomas (198-G/F-84, agency: Rasmussen Services, college: Massachusetts) had 17 in defeat.

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  BELGIUM   


Standings - Division II
D2 Standings
 1. Hasselt 2-0 
 2. Willebroek 2-0 
 3. Fleurus 2-0 
 4. Bree 2-0 
 5. Sint-Jan Antw. 2-0 
 6. Waregem 1-0 
 7. De Westhoek 1-1 
 8. Carnieres 1-1 
 9. Essor Charleroi 1-1 
 10. Boom 0-1 
 11. Ninane 0-2 
 12. Pitzemburg 0-2 
 13. Wevelgem 0-2 
 14. Falco Gent 0-2 
 15. Nivelles 0-2 


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  BULGARIA   


Levski prepares for A1 league and BIBL, Evtimov practices with the team - by Eurobasket News
Levski finaly had the first practice, which included all players as well as Konstantin Papazov. Well respected Bulgarian coach returned to his Levski after four years. From 1998 to 2004 Papazov led Levski winning two championship titles. In 2001 his team also became the National Cup winner. Later he spent two years as a head coach of Lukoil Akademik and one at the same position in Bulgarian National Team. This summer Papazov was assistant coach of Pini Gershon.

First practice with the team this summer had Stefan Georgiev (206-C/F-78, agency: Interperformances) and Asen Velikov (188-G-86), which helped Bulgaria to reach EuroBasket 2009 in Poland. Zlatin Georgiev (195-G-85) and Stanislav Slaveykov (198-F-86, agency: Interperformances) also joined the team. Levski has three youngsters Tsvetelin Ivanov (196-G-89), Ivo Slavchev and Vasil Aleksandrov which have to prove they are able tom compete in best Bulgarian division. This summer's acquisition Marcus Hall (185-G-85, college: Colorado) is also there. Hristo Zahariev (198-G/F-90) is currently in Fortitudo Bologna on try-out.

Interesting is that Vassil Evtimov (207-C/F-77, agency: Interperformances, college: N.Carolina) currently practices with the team. He spent last season in Grupo Capitol Valladolid but he for sure won't stay there. There is not any information about his possible joining Levski as most probably he will practice with the team from Sophia until he finds a job abroad.

Levski is preparing for Bulgarian A1 league as well as for the opening season of Balkan league (BIBL).

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  CAPE VERDE   


Cape Verdean Elvis Evora joins Spanish Basketball League - by Pedro Gomes
Elvis vora is the new reinforcement on Spanish basketball team Gandia. A native of the island of Sal, the 30-year-old athlete presented himself on September 23, and he's the teams main investment for this years Spanish Basketball League.

Last week, Elvis Evora (205-C-78, agency: Global Sports Plaza) played in the Pre-European Tournament with the Portuguese national basketball team, averaging 10 points a game.
He is the athlete Gandia has been looking for. Hes a strong man in the basket area and he helps on the inside game, highlights the teams site.
Evora has played in Spain before, in the 2005/2006 season, when he defended the colors of Tenerife.

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  CHINA   


New CBA Rules Allow Greater Use of Imports - by Arthur Volbert
According to pryuen at http://www.yaomingmania.com/forum/viewtopic.php?t=13432 , the CBA has announced new rules which will give imports more playing time.

In the new season, every CBA team except Bayi Rockets, which is linked to the People's Liberation of Army, will be allowed to have 2 imports per team. But the four CBA teams with the worst records last season can sign one more player from Asia in addition. These players may come from anywhere in Asia, such as the Middle East, Japan, Korea, or the Philippines. But they cannot have a duel nationality so no Asian-Americans can fill these spots.

In previous seasons, a team could only use one import at a time for three of the four quarters. The two imports could only play togeter in one quarter, which was called 5 men for 4 quarters. But for the new season, except when playing against the Bayi Rockets, all teams can play the 2 imports simultaneously for the entire game. The CBA calls this 8 men for 4 quarters, and this is similar to the rules for imports in Europe.

Sun Yue draws a big crowd - by Eurobasket News
The Lakers' second-round draft pick from 2007 Yue Sun (205-G/F-85, agency: Passing Lane) answered questions in English while sitting at a table before being surrounded by more than a dozen Chinese-speaking media members in a corner of a room at the Lakers' training facility in El Segundo.

In all, about 30 media members were in attendance. Even Mitch Kupchak seemed surprised.

'Quite frankly, this is a very unusual turnout for a player who was drafted two years ago who we hope to be on this team for many, many years to come,' the Lakers' general manager said. 'The fact remains, though, he has to earn his way onto this club.'

Sun, 22, signed a two-year contract with the Lakers last month.

He started for the Chinese national team in last month's Olympics but lacks NBA-level experience and is not expected to be a rotation player for the Lakers this season. If he is unable to squeeze in enough minutes as a backup, the 6-foot-9 guard could end up spending time with the Lakers' Development League team, the D-Fenders.

He provided spurts of a distinct blend of height and ball-handling ability for China at the Olympics.

Against Team USA, Sun held up under Kobe Bryant's relentless defensive pressure early in the game and made his first two three-point shots. In the second half, he blocked a driving layup try by center Dwight Howard.

Overall, he averaged 6.8 points and 2.5 assists in six games at the Olympics. China finished 2-4, losing to Lithuania in the quarterfinals.

Sun, selected with the 40th overall pick in 2007, said the Lakers became his favorite NBA team as he started delving deeper into the sport as a teenager in China.

'The Lakers helped me make my dream come true, so it feels good,' Sun said Wednesday.

Though his English was less than perfect, Sun appeared to have a good sense of humor, smiling as an English-speaking reporter struggled to say hello in Chinese.

Said Sun: 'Your Chinese is better than my English.'

Sun also revealed that his nickname was 'Q,' short for the Q-tip cotton swab. One of his former coaches gave Sun the name because of a small mole near his left ear.

Sun is somewhat familiar with Southern California after playing for an American Basketball Assn. team that played its home games at Azusa Pacific in 2006-07.

Courtesy of http://www.latimes.com

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  COLOMBIA   


Islanders Ortiz will miss next four games - by Victor Garcia
Islanders is arriving to Cali on the rise, after win 4 straight games on the road, the team of the Island is ready to face Indervalle in Cali, Indervalle is back in home after a long trip with negative record of 5 victories and 7 losses in the 5th place of the standings.
But the bad news for Islanders Sopesa is the injury of Stalin Ortiz, Ortiz ijured his foot in the friday game against Ovni, Ortiz will be out of the court for at least 10 days.

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  CROATIA   


Cibona makes it against Bree, Granada better than Zagreb - by Eurobasket News
After serious defeat in the first game on Belgium tour against Charleroi, Cibona Zagreb succeeded to beat Bree 81-70. Croatians had fantastic beginning making plus 13 after opening ten minutes, 18-31. Bree was better team during the following two quarters. Actually Belgians made a turn in 33th minute. Before that, center Nikola Prkacin (208-C-75) was sent out of the court by the referees, after what Bree made 4 free throws and a basket. However, it was kind of a signal for Davor Kus (190-G-78) and Vedran Vukusic (203-F-82, college: Northwestern) to step up for their team, what they immediately done. Together with Franko Kastropil (213-C-84) they led Cibona to 11-point victory at the end. Davor Kus paced CIbona to win scoring 23 points. Branimir Longin (195-G-78) had 13 while Vedran Vukusic scored 12 points. Bree got 22 points from Kevin Reed (190-G-81, agency: CAA Sports, college: Maine). Ronnie McCollum (192-G-78, college: Centenary) followed with 16 points.
Cibona will arrive to Zagreb today and tomorrow the team will go to St. Petersburg for international tournament.

Zagreb CO suffered third defeat on Spanish tour. After victory against Murcia, Zagreb faced with another ACB league team Granada. Spaniards were better 83-74. Juan Ignacio Jasen (196-F-85) was the best in the winning team with 17 points. Zagreb got the most from Mario Dundovic (200-F/C-77, agency: Court Side), who scored 15 points. Ante Tomic (217-C-87) and Krunoslav Simon (198-G/F-85) had 14 points each for the loosing side. Today Zagreb will meet Cajasol Sevilla. It will be the last Zagreb's game on this Spanish tour.

Cedevita grabs thriller win over Bosna ASA BHT - by Eurobasket News
At the opening day of Cedevita Cup, the host team registered thriller win against Bosnian champion Bosna ASA BHT 77-76. It means that in the final Cedevita will take on Serbian team Hemofarm Vrsac, which was better than Krka Novo Mesto 73-57.

Cedevita was extemly motivated for the first game of this international tournament. After just couple of minutes Croatians created advantage of 6 points. Thanks to Hrvoje Kovacevic, Cedevita ended first frame with 22-13. It didn't take too long for Bosna's answer, which opened second quarter making 6-0 run. Until the half time Bosna managed to make a turn, 38-39. After the breather Nikola Vucurovic (200-G/F-80) stepped up for his team helping Bosna to take 42-49. Very soon point guard Dusan Djordjevic joined him, which resulted with 46-57. After that moment Frano Colak (205-C-77, agency: Court Side) woke up and together with Ramel Bradley (188-G-85) made 9-0 run. In the last few minutes of third frame Cedevita succeeded to make a turn 62-60. After two triples by Ramel Bradley at the middle of last stanza it seemed that the game is over 68-60 but Bosna responded though Ivan Ivanovic (205-F-80, agency: Beo Basket) for 69-70. In very interesting finish American Ramel Bradley made a winning lay-up with less that a second to go. He was the best player of this game collecting 21 points, 6 assists and 6 steals. Frano Colak also was great adding 22 points and 6 rebounds while Ljubo Samadan (208-C/F-83) had 17 points. Ivan Ivanovic posted 13 poinst including 9 rebounds for Bosna ASA BHT. Nikola Vucurovic also had 13 points but with 5 boards while Amar Suljagic (210-C-88) netted 12 points.

Today Krka Novo Mesto will meet Bosna ASA BHT while Cedevita will play in the final against Hemofarm Vrsac.

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  CYPRUS   


Pizza Express Primetel Apollon inks Jones! - by Chris Mammides
Another great transfer from the Limassol site Pizza Express Primetel Apollon. The Limassol team agreed financial terms with the American with Dutch passport Sam Jones (188-G-78, college: Northwood). Jones is currently a memebr of the Netherlands National team. The American guard (point and shooting guard) arrived in Cyprus last week and was announced officially on Monday. Jones has a really very rich European career with his top seazon being the last one as he was able to get a transfer for the top seated league in Europe, the Spanish one where he was playing for Caceres in LEB.

AEL inks Lavell Blanchard - by Chris Mammides
Proteas EKA AEL Limassol agreed financial terms with the American small forward LaVell Blanchard (201-G-81, college: Michigan) for this coming seazon. Lavell knows very well the European leagues as he is playing for the fifth seazon after his very good presentations in the German, Italian and French leagues. Lavell is a very quick player with an amazing vertical jump. He will be a great help for Head Coach Racas' team as he is covering with the same ease both forward positions. Even though he is only 2.01 his physical strength can help him to overcome bigger opponents.

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  D.R. CONGO   


Didier Mbegna re-signs with Lakers - by Eurobasket News
Los Angeles Lakers re-signed Didier Mbenga (7'0''-C-80) yesterday morning extending pre-season roster to 19 players. Terms of the agreement are not announced yet.

Center Didier Mbenga joined Los Angeles Lakers in January this year. He appeared 26 times in NBA regular season with LAL averaging 2.5 ppg and 1.6 rpg. Mbenga's averages fell to 1.4 ppg and 1.3 rpg in 7 play-off games. He started 07/08 in Dallas Mavericks but he moved to Golden State before the season officially began. Mbenga joined Dallas in 2004 from Belgian team Spirou Charleroi. He played only 15 games in his rookie season due to various injuries. Next season was slightly better for Mbenga as he played 43 games averaging 1.7 ppg and 1.3 rpg. DJ Mbenga was member of Belgian National Team in 2005 and 2006. With Spirou Charleroi he won the title in Belgian championship in 2004. He joins Andrew Bynum and Chris Mihm as Lakers' third center.

Lakers currently have Derek Fisher, Jordan Farmar, Sun Yue and Brandon Heath on PG. Small guards are Kobe Bryant, Sasha Vujacic, Coby Karl, Joe Crawford and Dwayne Mitchell. Small forwards Lamar Odom, Trevor Ariza, Vladimir Radmanovic and Luke Walton. Power forwards: Pau Gasol, Josh Powell and CJ Giles. Big guys Andrew Bynum, Chris Mihm and Didier Mbenga.

Important info is that minimum four players will be cut before the opening night.

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  D-LEAGUE   


NBA Development League Announces 2008 Expansion Draft Results - by Eurobasket News
The Reno Bighorns selected the rights to forward Damone Brown (6'9''-F-79, college: Syracuse) from Syracuse University with the first selection in the 2008 NBA Development League Expansion Draft. With the second pick, the Erie BayHawks drafted the rights to Mike Gansey, a guard from West Virginia University.

Brown, 6-9, played in eight games during the 2007-08 NBA D-League season as a member of the Sioux Falls Skyforce, averaging 18.1 points and 8.4 rebounds. Drafted in the second round of the 2001 NBA Draft by the Philadelphia 76ers, Brown owns NBA career averages of 2.8 points, 1.3 rebounds and 9.0 minutes. He has played for the 76ers, Toronto Raptors, New Jersey Nets, Washington Wizards, Indiana Pacers and Utah Jazz.

The 6-4 Gansey appeared in 19 games for the Anaheim Arsenal during the 2007-08 NBA D-League season, averaging 2.8 points and 1.8 rebounds. A 2006 graduate of West Virginia, Gansey averaged 14.4 points and 5.4 rebounds in 68 career-games as a Mountaineer. Following his collegiate career, Gansey played with the Miami Heat in the 2006 Pepsi Pro Summer League, posting averages of 1.6 points and 1.2 rebounds.

Other top selections included Jesse Smith (Idaho State) and Jamaal Thomas (Angelo State), whose rights were selected by Reno and Kris Lang (North Carolina) and Dahntay Jones (Duke), whose rights were drafted by Erie.


Following are the complete results of the 2008 NBA D-League Expansion Draft:

ROUND ONE

Team Name Pos Ht College

1. Reno Bighorns Damone Brown F 6-9 Syracuse

2. Erie BayHawks Mike Gansey G 6-4 West Virginia


ROUND TWO

Team Name Pos Ht College

1. Erie BayHawks Jackie Manuel G 6-5 North Carolina

2. Reno Bighorns Tony Gipson G 6-1 LSU


ROUND THREE

Team Name Pos Ht College

1. Reno Bighorns Jesse Smith C 6-11 Idaho State

2. Eire BayHawks Kris Lang C 6-11 North Carolina


ROUND FOUR

Team Name Pos Ht College

1. Erie BayHawks Dahntay Jones F 6-6 Duke

2. Reno Bighorns Jamaal Thomas F 6-8 Angelo State


ROUND FIVE

Team Name Pos Ht College

1. Reno Bighorns Andre Patterson 6-7 F Tennessee

2. Erie BayHawks Steven Smith 6-9 F LaSalle


ROUND SIX

Team Name Pos Ht College

1. Erie BayHawks Cecil Brown G 6-4 Cal State Santa Barbara

2. Reno Bighorns Davin White G 6-1 Cal State Northridge


ROUND SEVEN

Team Name Pos Ht College

2. Reno Bighorns Mustafa Al-Sayyad F 6-10 Fresno State

2. Erie BayHawks Brian Greene F 6-9 Colorado State


ROUND EIGHT

Team Name Pos Ht College

1. Erie BayHawks Brian Chase G 5-10 Virginia Tech

2. Reno Bighorns Kyle Davis F 6-10 Auburn


ROUND NINE

Team Name Pos Ht College

1. Reno Bighorns Alfred Neale F 6-6 New Mexico

2. Erie BayHawks Jeff Hagen C 7-0 Minnesota


ROUND TEN

Team Name Pos Ht College

1. Erie BayHawks Randy Livingston G 6-4 LSU

2. Reno Bighorns Larry Turner C 6-11 Tennessee State

Courtesy of NBDL

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  GERMANY   


Landsberg is getting ready for the new season - by Moritz Korff
Regionalliga South-East outfit Heimerer Schulen Landsberg has completed its 2008-09 roster and is ready for the first game of the season, that will take place Saturday. The opponent is going to be Dachau.
The club officials waived Travis Krenske (188-G-85, agency: Pro Management Agency, college: SW Minnesota St.) who had worked out with Landsberg in the past weeks, but did not live up to the expectations. Instead of Krenske, Jason Boucher (180-G-80, college: Grand Valley St.) joined the club. The 28-year-old Guard previously played for the Coocoon Baskets Weiden. As a second import Landsberg signed Andrais Thornton (203-C, college: NW Missouri St.), a center who suited up for Northwest Missouri State University (NCAA2) during 2007-08 and averaged 6.1 points as well as 4.3 rebounds per contest. Domestic players Florian Pejchar (188-G-82, college: Delaware St.), Lars Ulrich (183-G-85), Markus Kaestner (198-F), Lukas Klocker, Jannis Goldbach (187-G-89) and Felix Hiemer (182-G-91) also joined the squad of coach Alexander Khartchenkov for the up and coming season, while only three players from last years' roster decided to remain loyal to the club: Michael Teichner (198-F), Johannes Hountondji (191-F-80) and Robert Apelt (200-F-75). The list of athletes who left includes names like Larry Johnson (191-G-79, college: Niagara) and Simon Gerve (188-G-85) who both headed to the Dresden Titans, Josef Eichler (200-F-87) who took his game to Bundesliga-newcomer Noerdlingen, Przemyslaw Migala (202-C-77) and Ali Thomas (188-G-79, college: USF).

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  GREECE   


Gomelskiy Cup belongs to Zalgiris this year - by Eurobasket News
Panathinaikos-Zalgiris Kaunas 69:80

Zalgiris Kaunas triumphed in Gomelskiy Cup last night in Moscow, Russia. Lithuanian team trailed after the first half but managed to go in front and to keep the lead in the second. With 20:11 in the last stanza Zalgiris lifted up the trophy with 80:69 victory. Paulius Jankunas (203-F-84, agency: Interperformances) and Ratko Varda (216-C/F-79) led the winners with 15 points apiece. Marcus Brown (193-G-74, agency: Higher Vision Sports, college: Murray St.) and Jonas Maciulis (198-G/F-85, agency: Interperformances) scored 11 each, while Willie Deane recorded 9 points.
Zalgiris Kaunas and Panathinaikos were great representative of the Final of the tournament and proved it from the early beginning. Lithuanian team managed to win the opening quarter by one, 24:23. As the game remained back-to-back, the Greek side scored some baskets in the end of the second to win the period 18:14. It gave Panathinaikos 41:38 when the teams disappeared in the lockers.
In the second half Zalgiris Kaunas played better and benefit from the game. They produced 22:17 in the third and created 20:11 in the last to seal the victory. Rimantas Grigas was glad to say some words after the game of triumph. He noticed that even though the season has not started yet, the teams showed great basketball in the tournament. Zeljko Obradovic , the head Coach of the Greek side congratulated the winners and is getting ready for another tournament with his team that will be held soon in Slovenia.
In the game for the third place CSKA Moscow beat Maccabi Electra Tel Aviv 76:59.

Zalgiris Kaunas: Paulius Jankunas 15, Ratko Varda 15, Marcus Brown 11, Jonas Maciulis 11
Panathinaikos:Stratos Perperoglou (203-G-84) 12, Mike Batiste 12

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  HOLLAND   


Contract Travis Young concluded - by Fred Roggen

Travis Young (184-G-79, agency: Interperformances, college: Marshall) and Eiffel Towers Den Bosch go apart. In conformity with the club, the contract of Travis Young has been terminate right away. Young indicated recently to the Eiffel Towers that he want some time to rest, so he could fully recover from all his injuries suffered in the past. EiffelTowers have agreed in the interest of the health of Travis Young.
Young played seven seasons in Holland and averaged 18ppg. He played one season for Landstede Zwolle, one for Omniworld Almere, three seasons for MPC Capitals and two seasons for Eiffel Towers Den Bosch and became Dutch champion in 2004 and 2007.


EiffelTowers is currently in negotiation with a replacement for Travis Young.



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  ISRAEL   


Galil Gilboa comes back from the international tournament - by Eurobasket News
Galil Gilboa participated in the international tournament held in Yuzhniy, Ukraine. In the first game the team overcame Khimik 73:66. Khimik produced 24:17 in the first frame but could hardly stay in the game in the second. Israeli team answered with 28:12 in the second period and took the control of the game. Wykeen Kelly (186-G-79, agency: Court Side, college: Salem Intern.) brought the hosts to 61:65 in the end of the game. Galil Gilboa did not panic and increased to 71:63. Ukrainian team scored another three to reduce to 66:71, but the guests won the game 66:73.
Galil Gilboa toppled Odessa in another game of the day. So both Galil Gilboa and ASK Riga enjoyed a 2-0 record before the final round of the tournament.
ASK Riga triumphed in the International tournament in Ukraine. After the wins over Khimik and Odessa Latvian side met Galil Gilboa. The latter started well the campaign and went on a 28:18 lead after the opening quarter. The team from Israel controlled the game in the second quarter as well and improved to 14 points after 26:22 in the second period. ASK Riga was glad to have a break after two quarters and came back with another mood. They created 32;26 in the third period and stayed closer to the winning team. In the last frame ASK Riga was too good and 27:13 lifted them up in the game. Riga triumphed with 101:93 win over Galil Gilboa and won the trophy of the tournament. Aleksic led the winners with 23 points, while Ricardo Marsh (203-F-81, agency: Edge Sports, college: ODU) netted 20. Brewer posted 19 and Mazutis scored 15.
After the end of the Final game the administration of the tournament awarded the best players. Tolbert from Odessa was awarded the Best Guard Player. Ricardo Marsh from ASK Riga got Best Forward Player, while ASK Riga's Coach Ramunas Butautas was named as Best Coach. Andriy Agafonov (207-F-86, agency: Interperformances) was awarded as the best Center in the tournament and Brian Roberts (188-G-85, agency: Arik Krayn Services) from Galil Gilboa received MVP of the Cup.

Hapoel Jerusalem sign Jordan Fliegel - by Netanel Dahan
Hapoel Jerusalem sign the Forward Jordan Fliegel (198-F/C), a Boston, USA native, and Israeli citizen signed with Israeli basketball powerhouse Hapoel Jerusalem in the Israeli Premier League. Fliegel, a Division III All-American in the USA, came out of nowhere to make the team.

Jordan is a 23 years old,Jordan avrged last year at Bowdoin:13.6 ppg,5.3 rpg,2.2 bpg,1.5 spg,and 1.5 apg,in 25.6 mpg.

Here a short interview with him after he signed at Jerusalem:


When asked about the process of signing with Jerusalem, Fliegel explained, 'After college I was going to be an investment banker, but I got a call from an American agent, Marc Simon from Astor Sports Management and he told me he could place me in Israel on a second or third division team. I got on a plane, flew to Israel with no money, no contract, stayed in a hostel for $7.50 a night, and through my agent's Israeli partner Gross Zeev, I tried out for about 7 teams. The Jerusalem team liked how I played over a week of tryouts and they signed me.'



Fliegel, a double major in philosophy and government in college, understands the tough road ahead. 'I came out of a Division III school and my agents Gross Zeev and Marc Simon put me in a position to play for one of the best teams in the world. I know I will have to fight everyday for playing time, but I am ready to contribute to the team and assist them in any way to bring a championship to Jerusalem.

CSKA beat Maccabi for the third place in Gomelskiy Cup - by Eurobasket News
CSKA-Maccabi 76:59

The defending Euroleague Basketball champion CSKA Moscow finished third in the home tournament last night. Moscow saw a 79:56 win over Maccabi in the game for the third place in Gomelskiy Cup. Erazem Lorbek (210-F/C-84, college: Michigan St.) led the winners with 22 points and 7 rebounds. Trajan Langdon (192-G-76, college: Duke) notched 15, while Viktor Khryapa (204-F/G-82) 12 points and Terrence Morris had 8. Carlos Arroyo (188-G-79, agency: Interperformances, college: Florida Intern.) top-scored for the guests with 13 points and Rodney White (206-F-80, college: Charlotte) nailed 12.

CSKA deserved also a Final as well as Maccabi that lost to Panathinaikos only in overtime. Both teams struggled as if they played in the Final and brought lots of interest in the game for the third place. The Russian squad opened the game with 21:20, but could not hold the lead. Maccabi played as good as the y used to and won the second period 22:16.
Trailing 5 points at the halftime was a not a problem for the defending Euroleague Basketball champion. CSKA had a great break and entered the third period with a desire to win. Russian squad produced 26:7 in the third period to take the full control of the game. With another 13:10 they finished the game at 76:59 and clinched the third place in the tournament at home.

Zalgiris Kaunas triumphed in Gomelskiy Cup last night in Moscow, Russia. Lithuanian team trailed after the first half but managed to go in front and to keep the lead in the second. With 20:11 in the last stanza Zalgiris lifted up the trophy with 80:69 victory. Paulius Jankunas and Ratko Varda led the winners with 15 points apiece. Marcus Brown and Jonas Maciulis scored 11 each, while Willie Deane recorded 9 points.

CSKA:Erazem Lorbek 22 points and 7 rebounds, Trajan Langdon 15, Viktor Khryapa 12 points, Terrence Morris 8
Maccabi:Carlos Arroyo 13, Rodney White 12

*****************************************************
  ITALY   


Cimberio Varese adds Kaniel Dickens - by Stefano Benny


Cimberio Varese adds Kaniel Dickens - by Stefano Benny
As we had anticipated yesterday, Cimberio Varese officially announced the agreement with Kaniel Dickens (203-F-78, college: Idaho) (203-F-78, college: Idaho), who left Basket Napoli. The American forward could replace Arizona Reid (196-F-86, agency: Strategic Sports, college: High Point) (196-F-86, agency: Strategic Sports, college: High Point) , but coach Stefano Pillastrini will take a decision in these days, because Cimberio wait a decision of Federal Italian Basketball Council: the team could replace Napoli on next Serie A Championship. If Varese will play on Serie A, Reid could be confirmed.

Cimberio Varese adds Kaniel Dickend - by Stefano Benny


Cimberio Varese adds Kaniel Dickens - by Stefano Benny


*****************************************************
  JAMAICA   


Urban Knights still perfect - by Leonard Whyte
Defending Kentucky Fried Chicken (KFC)/National Basketball League (NBL) champions, Urban Knights, is trying to make history by becoming the first team to go unbeaten the NBL. After ending the first round with a perfect 11-0 record, including a win in the Midseason Finals, Knights switched gears in the second round, but still received a scare from Runnin' Rebels on Tuesday night, eventually coming away with a close 74-72 win. The champions now sport an impressive 19-0 record with three games to play. Tonight they put their unbeaten streak on the line once more when they face last place Linkup All-Stars for a chance to move to an astonishing 20-0.

In Tuesday nights game at the National Stadium courts, Knights, behind 23 points and nine steals from Javan Bailey, and 16pts, 11rebs from Andrew Whilby, recovered from a disastrous first quarter, in which they gave up 23 points to Rebels, to escape with a two-point victory. In other games played Arnett Gardens Rockets defeated Linkup All-Stars 80-75 and Port Royal Bulls outlasted Majestic Gardens 68-63.

Tonight schedule:
Linkup All-Stars vs. Urban Knights
Runnin' Rebels vs. Port Royal Bulls
Arnett Gardens Rockers vs. Majesty Gardens
Jamaica Defence Force vs. St. Georges Slayers

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


ASK Riga triumphed in the International tournament in Ukraine - by Eurobasket News
ASK Riga triumphed in the International tournament in Ukraine. After the wins over Khimik and Odessa Latvian side met Hapoel that also came to the Final game with 2-0 record.
Hapoel started well the campaign and went on a 28:18 lead after the opening quarter. The team from Israel controlled the game in the second quarter as well and improved to 14 points after 26:22 in the second period.
ASK Riga was glad to have a break after two quarters and came back with another mood. They created 32;26 in the third period and stayed closer to the winning team. In the last frame ASK Riga was too good and 27:13 lifted them up in the game. Riga triumphed with 101:93 win over Hapoel and won the trophy of the tournament. Milutin Aleksic (202-F-82) led the winners with 23 points, while Ricardo Marsh (203-F-81, agency: Edge Sports, college: ODU) netted 20. Corey Brewer posted 19 and Andrius Mazutis (179-G-81) scored 15.

After the end of the Final game the administration of the tournament awarded the best players. Tolbert from Odessa was awarded the Best Guard Player. Ricardo Marsh from ASK Riga got Best Forward Player, while ASK Riga's Coach Butautas Ramunas was named as Best Coach. Andriy Agafonov (207-F-86, agency: Interperformances) was awarded as the best Center in the tournament and Roberts from Hapoel received MVP of the Cup.

Hapoel ASK Riga 93:101
ASK Riga: Milutin Aleksic 23, Ricardo Marsh 20, Corey Brewer (188-G-75, college: Oklahoma) 19, Andrius Mazutis 15

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  LEBANON   


A Lebanese Final in the Summer League - by Asia-Basket Lebanon
The Final of the first episode of the Lebanese Summer League will be a pure Lebanese one , it will join Sagesse to Blue Stars .The two teams had a successful first round .Sagesse finished first of its group without any loss , on the other side Blue Stars finished with one loss in the group stage .

Sagesse managed to reach to the final after beating MESM after an exciting game on the score of 76-72.

Best Scorers:
Sagesse: Trent Strickalnd (27pts) , MESM:Predrag Milocevic (10pts)


In the second semi final game Blue Stars secured its place in the final after beating the team from Egypt , the Cairo Academy on the score of 67-63 .

Best Scorers:
Blue Stars: Miguel Martinez (15pts) , Cairo Academy: Mousataf Charif (24pts)

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  LITHUANIA   


Market news - by Eurobasket News
EnBW Ludwigsburg announced signing of Lithuanian Tomas Nagys (208-F-80, agency: Edge Sports, college: Clemson). It means that German 1.Bundesliga team closed its roster for the upcoming season. Nagys started the last one in Italian Legea Scafati Basket but he did not play any official game. In October he joined AEP Olimpias Patron averaging 9.2 ppg and 5.6 rpg for 10 games in Greek A1 league. He also appeared 4 times in FIBA EuroCup adding 10.5 ppg and 5.5 rpg. In January this year Tomas Nagys agreed terms with Barons/LMT Riga but he was released after just few games. His final destination last season was Akasvayu Girona, where Nagys got one-month contract. He played 9 games in Girona's jersey but without any important records. In the past Nagys played for Spatak Primorie and Anwil Wloclawek. He graduated at Clemson University in 2003.

In the meantime another Lithuanian player signed contract these days. It is Pavelas Cukinas (210-C-83), who agreed terms with Latvian Barons/LMT Riga. He played last season in Italian team Cantu averaging 4.8 ppg and 3.6 rpg for 38 games in Serie A. Season 06/07 Cukinas spent in EnBW Ludwigsburg reaching the play-off semifinals. In 2006 he won Lithuanian championship as well as Baltic league with Lietuvos Rytas. A year before his Lietuvos became the ULEB Cup winner. He spent 4 seasons in the team from Vilnius, where he joined from Alita Alytus in 2002.

Standings - NKL
NKL Standings
 1. Silute 0-0 
 2. Delikatesas 0-0 
 3. Nafta Univ. 0-0 
 4. Malsta Jon. 0-0 
 5. Mazeikiai 0-0 
 6. Perlas 0-0 
 7. Puntukas An. 0-0 
 8. Rudupis Pr. 0-0 
 9. Meresta Pak. 0-0 
 10. Bremena T. 0-0 
 11. Zalgiris-Sab. 0-0 
 12. LKKA-Atletas 0-0 
 13. Pieno Zv. 0-0 
 14. Akademija 0-0 
 15. KKM-Aisciai 0-0 
 16. Juventus 0-0 
 17. ABRO-Univ. 0-0 
 18. Naglis-Ad. 0-0 
 19. Alytus/Alr. 0-0 


Gomelskiy Cup belongs to Zalgiris this year - by Eurobasket News
Panathinaikos-Zalgiris Kaunas 69:80

Zalgiris Kaunas triumphed in Gomelskiy Cup last night in Moscow, Russia. Lithuanian team trailed after the first half but managed to go in front and to keep the lead in the second. With 20:11 in the last stanza Zalgiris lifted up the trophy with 80:69 victory. Paulius Jankunas (203-F-84, agency: Interperformances) and Ratko Varda (216-C/F-79) led the winners with 15 points apiece. Marcus Brown (193-G-74, agency: Higher Vision Sports, college: Murray St.) and Jonas Maciulis (198-G/F-85, agency: Interperformances) scored 11 each, while Willie Deane recorded 9 points.
Zalgiris Kaunas and Panathinaikos were great representative of the Final of the tournament and proved it from the early beginning. Lithuanian team managed to win the opening quarter by one, 24:23. As the game remained back-to-back, the Greek side scored some baskets in the end of the second to win the period 18:14. It gave Panathinaikos 41:38 when the teams disappeared in the lockers.
In the second half Zalgiris Kaunas played better and benefit from the game. They produced 22:17 in the third and created 20:11 in the last to seal the victory. Rimantas Grigas was glad to say some words after the game of triumph. He noticed that even though the season has not started yet, the teams showed great basketball in the tournament. Zeljko Obradovic , the head Coach of the Greek side congratulated the winners and is getting ready for another tournament with his team that will be held soon in Slovenia.
In the game for the third place CSKA Moscow beat Maccabi Electra Tel Aviv 76:59.

Zalgiris Kaunas: Paulius Jankunas 15, Ratko Varda 15, Marcus Brown 11, Jonas Maciulis 11
Panathinaikos:Stratos Perperoglou (203-G-84) 12, Mike Batiste 12

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


GORANOVIC Filip inks for Hercegovac Bileca - by Dragan Scepanovic
Basketball Club HERCEGOVAC from Bileca and DELFI SMG Agency announced that ex basketball player of Basketball Club BUDVA Filip Goranovic (208-F/C-85) singed 1 year contract with Club.Filip Goranovic in season 2007-2008 was MVP of MNT1B league , he play for Basketball Club Budva in MNT1B league 22 games : 18.9 ppg, 10.2 rbpg.Before Basketball Club Hercegovac Filip Goranovic play for Basketball Club Budva , Basketball Club Mogren Budva , Basketball Club Lovcen Cetinje and Basketball Club Buducnost Podgorica

Elmir Forto singed for BC Ulcinj - by Dragan Scepanovic

Basketball management of Basketball Club ULCI NJ and DELFI SMG Agency announced that Elmir Forto (206-C, college: Auburn-Montgomery) form BC Tres Karden GER3 singed contract for 2008-2009 with BC Ulcinj.In same way management of Basketball Club ULCINJ announced that new contract with club for season 2008-2009 singed : PAUNOVIC Nemanja from BC Borac Nektar Banja Luka BiH , MALOVIC Rajko from BC Slavija BiH , STANIC Ivan from BC Slavija BIH , JANKOVIC Ivan from BC Mladost Zemun SRB3 , DJORDJEVIC Stefan from BC Mega Basket SRB , LALIC Slobodan from BC Slavija BiH .

Four basketball players renew contract : DABANOVIC Luka , IVANOVIC Aleksandar, JOVANOVIC Zeljko ( 192 F/G 1986 ) , IVANOVIC Rade born 1991.

Form BC Ulcinj go : KASMI Sokol, KALEZIC Edvin ( go to play USA College League) PEJOVIC Andrija ( go to BC Danilovgrad) , Marko Calic (197-F-86) ( go to BC Lovcen Cetinje ), OSMAJIC Vlado ( go to BC Teodo Tivat MNT1B)



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


Bobcats ink Carl Landry to $9M offer sheet - by Eurobasket News
Houston Rockets forward Carl Landry (6'7''-F-83, college: Purdue) signed a three-year, $9-million US offer sheet with the Charlotte Bobcats on Wednesday.

Houston can retain the restricted free-agent by matching the offer.

'It is a shot at improvement,' Bobcats general manager Rod Higgins said. 'The clock starts now to see if we, indeed, get the opportunity.'

Landry, 25, was extended a qualifying offer by the Rockets, but he failed to finalize a deal.

Enter the Bobcats, who have been seeking a physical presence up front to complement the likes of Emeka Okafor, Nazr Mohammed and rookie Alexis Ajinca.

'We saw an opportunity to possibly get a guy that can play both big spots, probably more so the power forward,' Higgins said. 'He is versatile enough to play the centre position in a pinch.'

Landry averaged 8.1 points, 4.9 rebounds and 16.9 minutes in 42 appearances off the bench last season, his first in the NBA.

The Purdue product was drafted in the second round (31st overall) by the Seattle SuperSonics, who promptly traded his negotiating rights to the Rockets for a second-round pick and cash considerations.

Courtesy of www.cbc.ca

Atkins Undergoes Successful Knee Surgery - by Bruno Baltazar
Denver Nuggets guard Chucky Atkins (5'11''-G-74, agency: Interperformances, college: S.Florida) underwent successful arthroscopic surgery on his right knee today. The surgery, performed by Nuggets orthopedic surgeon, Dr. Steve Traina, repaired torn cartilage and cleaned out loose bodies.
Atkins began experiencing discomfort in the knee two weeks ago while playing pick-up games in preparation for the season. An MRI was performed on Monday and revealed surgery was necessary.

Atkins will be sidelined for approximately six weeks.

Knicks Sign Dan Grunfeld and Allan Houston - by Bruno Baltazar
The New York Knicks announced today that free agent guard/forward Dan Grunfeld (6'6''-G/F-84, agency: Octagon, college: Stanford) has been signed to a contract.
Grunfeld, 6-6, 215-pounds, was undrafted out of Stanford University and spent the last two seasons playing overseas. The River Hills, WI native spent the 2007-08 season in Spain, where he averaged 14.7 points and 3.3 rebounds for Aguas De Valencia. Grunfeld averaged 12.1 points and 3.9 rebounds per game for Oldenburg in Germany during the 2006-07 campaign. As a collegian, Grunfeld played four years at Stanford, highlighted by his junior season in 2004-05 when he earned First Team All-Pacific 10 Conference honors after averaging 17.9 points per game.
Grunfeld is the son of current Washington Wizards president, Ernie Grunfeld.

New York Knicks announced that guard Allan Houston (6'6''-G-71, college: Tennessee) has been re-signed as a free agent.
Originally retiring on Oct. 17, 2005 following training camp three seasons ago, Houston is the team's fourth leading scorer in franchise history during the regular season (11,165) and eighth leading scorer during the playoffs (1,139). Only NBA legends Patrick Ewing, Walt 'Clyde' Frazier and Willis Reed have scored more points during their regular season careers with the orange and blue. On Oct. 4, 1999, he was named a team captain, and held that title for six seasons. He was selected to be a member of the 2000 and 2001 NBA All-Star teams and was a member of the Gold medal-winning United States team at the 2000 Summer Olympic Games in Sydney.
On May 16, 1999, the Louisville, KY native authored one of the most memorable shots in club history with a game-winning runner at Miami in the closing seconds of Game Five in the first round of the 1999 NBA Playoffs. After defeating the Heat, the Knicks went on to defeat the Atlanta Hawks in the conference semifinals and Indiana Pacers in the conference finals to make their first NBA Finals appearance since 1994.
Recognized for his work through the 'Father Knows Best' program offered under the Allan Houston Legacy Foundation, Houston was recently named as the national spokesman for the National Fatherhood Initiative. Houston will be wearing jersey No. 14 in honor of his father, Wade, one of the first African-American basketball players at the University of Louisville.
'My father has been a great model of a man, and hopefully I can continue to carry what he taught me back to the court with the Knicks. Off the court, this is also symbolic to encourage men to be committed fathers as their role remains one of the most important factors in the lives of our youth.'

Magic signed 3 free agents for training camp - by Bruno Baltazar

The Orlando Magic will hold their 2008-09 training camp at the RDV Sportsplex in Orlando, beginning Tuesday, September 30.
In addition, the Magic have signed free agents Dwyane Jones (F-C, 6-11, 251, 6/9/83, Saint Josephs), Jeremy Richardson (6'7''-G/F-83, college: Delta St.) (G-F, 6-7, 195, 3/1/84, Delta State) and Mike Wilks (5'11''-G-79, college: Rice) (G, 5-10, 180, 5/7/79, Rice).
Orlando begins the preseason at home on October 6 vs. Atlanta. The Magic open the 2008-09 regular season at home on Wednesday, October 29, also against the Hawks.



Didier Mbegna re-signs with Lakers - by Eurobasket News
Los Angeles Lakers re-signed Didier Mbenga (7'0''-C-80) yesterday morning extending pre-season roster to 19 players. Terms of the agreement are not announced yet.

Center Didier Mbenga joined Los Angeles Lakers in January this year. He appeared 26 times in NBA regular season with LAL averaging 2.5 ppg and 1.6 rpg. Mbenga's averages fell to 1.4 ppg and 1.3 rpg in 7 play-off games. He started 07/08 in Dallas Mavericks but he moved to Golden State before the season officially began. Mbenga joined Dallas in 2004 from Belgian team Spirou Charleroi. He played only 15 games in his rookie season due to various injuries. Next season was slightly better for Mbenga as he played 43 games averaging 1.7 ppg and 1.3 rpg. DJ Mbenga was member of Belgian National Team in 2005 and 2006. With Spirou Charleroi he won the title in Belgian championship in 2004. He joins Andrew Bynum and Chris Mihm as Lakers' third center.

Lakers currently have Derek Fisher, Jordan Farmar, Sun Yue and Brandon Heath on PG. Small guards are Kobe Bryant, Sasha Vujacic, Coby Karl, Joe Crawford and Dwayne Mitchell. Small forwards Lamar Odom, Trevor Ariza, Vladimir Radmanovic and Luke Walton. Power forwards: Pau Gasol, Josh Powell and CJ Giles. Big guys Andrew Bynum, Chris Mihm and Didier Mbenga.

Important info is that minimum four players will be cut before the opening night.

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


Aggies toss Higgins off team - by Kevin Cochran
New Mexico St. has lost one of their top recruits without him playing a game.

Point guard Johnny Higgins was dismissed from the team for violating team rules. Sources say he was involved in a physical altercation, and was then thrown off the team by coach Marvin Menzies .

'It is always unfortunate to lose a player but under the circumstances, and the particular team rules that have been violated, it is my decision to dismiss Johnny Higgins,' Menzies said. 'We are optimistic that his next collegiate experience will have a more successful result.'

Higgins' AAU coach, Anthony Lewis, says the freshman will transfer to New Mexico Junior College.

Northern St. coach has leg amputated below knee - by Bruno Baltazar
Northern State's Don Meyer , tops on the NCAA win list among active men's basketball coaches, had his left leg amputated below the knee after a car accident.

School officials said Friday that Meyer felt a sense of relief after making the decision. Meyer's leg was severely injured when his car collided with a semi on Sept. 5.

Meyer is second on the NCAA's all-time victory list (891) in men's basketball behind Bobby Knight.

The Highway Patrol said Meyer either fell asleep or was distracted when his car crossed the center line. His was the first of several vehicles carrying the Division II basketball team to a hunting lodge. Meyer was the only one injured, and the accident remains under investigation.

The 63-year-old Meyer was diagnosed with a slow-growing cancer in his liver and bowels, which doctors said they might not have been found had he not been injured.

Pitt extends head coach Dixon for three years - by Eurobasket News
Pittsburgh has signed head coach Jamie Dixon to a three-year contract extension that runs through the 2015-16 season.

Dixon is beginning his sixth season as head coach of the Panthers, and his 10th year at Pitt. The only coach in program history to lead Pitt to five consecutive NCAA Tournament appearances, five straight 20-win overall and 10- win league seasons, Dixon has guided the Panthers to a 132-40 mark overall.

'I am grateful to the University of Pittsburgh for the opportunity and support that I have received here,' said Dixon. 'I love both the university and our outstanding city. I'm fortunate to be surrounded by a special group of players, a great coaching staff, the most supportive administration in the country and tremendous fans.'

Pitt won the 2004 Big East regular season title, and the 2008 Big East Tournament under Dixon, and made the Sweet 16 in 2004 and 2007. Dixon's 132 career victories are tied for third among all-time NCAA Division I coaching starts after five seasons. He has the best winning percentage for a Pitt head coach after five years and reached 100 victories faster than any other coach in school history.

'This contract extension is all about commitment: our commitment to Jamie and his commitment to the University of Pittsburgh,' said Pitt athletic director Steve Pederson. 'Jamie has risen to the top of his profession in a very short period of time. He is deserving of this commitment by the university for establishing Pitt basketball as one of the nation's premier programs.'

Dixon and Pitt are coming off a 27-10 mark last season, and the school's seventh straight NCAA Tournament appearance. The fourth-seeded Panthers bowed out in the second round to Michigan State after bouncing Oral Roberts in the first round.

Courtesy of http://www.wlwt.com

Brown gets extension at UMKC - by Kevin Cochran
Director of Athletics Tim Hall announced that Matt Brown has received a contract extension to keep him as the head mens basketball coach at UMKC through the 2012-13 season. Brown is entering his second season with the Kangaroos.

'It is with confidence and enthusiasm that we make this announcement,' said Hall. 'Matt Brown is conducting his program in a first class manner in all areas. He is laying the foundation for future success for UMKC mens basketball and the more broad athletics department. Building a strong foundation takes time and I wanted to assure Matt, his staff and future recruits that we are committed to building something long enduring.'

In his first season in Kansas City, Brown guided the Kangaroos to an 11-21 overall record and a 6-12 mark in Summit League play. Entering the league tournament as the No. 7 seed, Browns squad pushed No. 2 seed IUPUI to the brink before dropping a 69-65 decision to the Jaguars.

Browns first Kangaroo team proved to be the most potent three-point shooting squad in school history, as it finished with school records in three-point field goals (283) and three-point attempts (739). Brown coached a pair of players - Dane Brumagin (6'4''-G-86) and Reggie Hamilton (6'0''-G-89) - to post season honors. Brumagin earned second-team all-league accolades, while Hamilton was the lone freshman named to the leagues all-newcomer team.

In the classroom, Brown led his team to a 3.04 cumulative grade point average during the 2007 fall semester, which was the highest grade point average for the mens basketball team on record. Additionally, six student-athletes earned Winter/Spring Academic all-league honors and four student-athletes were named to the Commissioners List of Academic Excellence.

Prior to making his move to the head coaching ranks, Brown spent 10 years as an assistant coach under John Beilein at Richmond and West Virginia. During his time at the two universities, Brown helped guide teams to the post season in seven of his 10 years on the sidelines. Three of his squads advanced to the NCAA Tournament, while four teams made National Invitational Tournament (NIT) appearances.

Courtesy: UMKC Athletics

High Point adds Damon Stephenson to coaching staff - by Eurobasket News
High Point University head men's basketball coach Bart Lundy announced the addition of Damon Stephenson to the Panther coaching staff on Tuesday.

'I am very excited to be here and a part of the High Point family,' said Stephenson, a former assistant coach at several college programs including Winthrop University. 'I am also very appreciative to Coach Lundy for giving me this opportunity. Bart is a guy that I've had a lot of respect for in the business. I've seen what he has done from the outside, and that was enough to make me want to be a part of this program from the inside. I know he is a very successful recruiter and a very smart basketball coach. I am just honored to be at High Point University.'

Stephenson, who was a member of four consecutive Big South Championships and NCAA Tournament appearances at Winthrop from 1998-2002, comes to HPU after serving as the Director of US Operations for Basketball NSW/Horizons Sporting Events. In that position, he was the Director of Australian Marketing and was also the head coach of the North Sydney U-18 D1 men's team.

'We are very fortunate to be adding a coach with Damon's experience to our staff,' said Lundy. 'He is extremely familiar with the Big South Conference and has a great deal of valuable championship experience at the prep and collegiate level. Damon also has tremendous international connections that will not only benefit our program in recruiting, but also help our student-athletes upon their graduations. Damon is very excited about returning to the coaching ranks in the college game, and I know that his enthusiasm will have a huge impact on our young team. I believe that Damon is going to be a great asset for High Point Basketball and High Point University.'

Prior to his stint with Basketball NSW, Stephenson served as the athletic director and head men's basketball coach at Cape Fear Academy in Wilmington, N.C., from 2004-06. During his tenure, Cape Fear captured the 2005-06 EPIC Conference Championship, earning Stephenson the EPIC Conference Coach of the Year award.

Stephenson began his coaching career as an administrative assistant at College of Charleston during the 1992-93 season. He then spent two seasons as a graduate assistant coach at Georgetown (Ky.) College, where he helped guide the squad to a 66-5 overall record and a No. 1 national ranking. He followed that with one season as an assistant coach at Greenup County High School, where he was a former prep standout.

After spending 1997-98 as an assistant coach at Gardner-Webb University, for Rick Scruggs, who was his college coach at Pikeville, Stephenson began his four-year stint on Gregg Marshall's Winthrop staff as an assistant coach.

While at Pikeville, Stephenson garnered a pair of NAIA Academic All-American honors and was a three-year captain at PC. He graduated Magna Cum Laude with a degree in business administration from Pikeville in 1992.

A native of South Portsmouth, Ky., Stephenson prepped at Greenup County High, where he was a three-time All-16th Region selection and honorable mention All-State performer.

Stephenson joins a High Point program that has posted back-to-back-to-back winning records for the first time in over a decade. The Panthers also recorded their third straight .500 or better finish in the Big South Conference marking the first time that feat has been accomplished in program history. HPU begins official practice in mid-October and open the 2008-09 season on Nov. 14 at Duquesne.

Courtesy of http://www.highpointpanthers.com

*****************************************************
  NCAA2   


Alaska-Fairbanks With Big Roster Changes - by Sanjey Noriega
By Matias Saari, Fairbanks Daily News-Miner

Published Wednesday, September 17, 2008

FAIRBANKS, AK - Clemon Johnson has two primary goals for his Alaska Nanooks this season: move up to at least the middle of the pack in the Great Northwest Athletic Conference and keep all his players eligible for the entire basketball season.

Both are lofty missions. Last season, the Nanooks finished last in the GNAC at 2-14 on their way to a 5-22 overall mark. They also lost a bevy of players to academic ineligibility and injuries during the season and saw several more leave in the offseason.

'I don't want to go through another year like this,' Johnson said of his rookie coaching campaign. 'I just can't take another year like this.'

Johnson said although it's a challenge both to get recruits to come to Fairbanks and then keep them here, there's a simple solution.

'First and foremost, winning solves all your problems,' Johnson said Monday during an interview at his Patty Center office. 'You win, everybody's happy, nobody's looking to move anywhere.'

The Nanooks, who haven't begun practice yet but are allowed to play pick-up games and spend limited time with coaches in groups, have 16 players on their current roster, and none will redshirt. Only five -- senior forwards Colin Matteson (6'8''-F) and Mladen Begojevic, sophomore forwards Nashorn Maynard and Michael Anderson and sophomore guard Bobby Pico -- were with the Nanooks a year ago. Besides leading-scorer Matteson, the bunch started just 24 games among them, and Begojevic (knees) and Pico (back) are still slowed by chronic injuries.

The key departures are Kevin Atkins, a capable scorer and talented rebounder who transferred to Humboldt State; Mike Titus of Fairbanks, who graduated; Travis Pew of Eielson, who is no longer attending UAF; forward David Cannamore, who is still attending UAF but has decided to focus on academics; and point guard Keven Campbell, whose halftime off-court outburst late last season got him sent home by Johnson, never to return to Alaska's court.

'We started last year with about 16 people, and it just slowly dwindled away. Hopefully we don't go through that again,' said Johnson, who has again lined up a large roster as security.

Johnson, with the recruiting assistance of volunteer coach Jocquis Sconiers, has brought in a whole new cast, many of them junior college transfers. So far, he likes the enthusiasm of his 'gym rats.'

'I'm coming to work on Saturdays, and they're in the gym playing at 8 o'clock in the morning,' Johnson said. 'The difficult part with gym rats is that they may spend too much time in the gym and not enough in the classroom.'

So how to keep the Nanooks not only going to class but with good enough grades to stay eligible beyond Christmas? The men's basketball team's grade-point average is typically at or near the bottom of the athletic department, and last year players such as starting guard Philippe Jourdain and local favorite Bo Edwards didn't make the grade and had to take a seat.

'We need to get volunteer tutors, or pay for tutors,' Johnson said, adding that direct communication with professors also can be improved to keep tabs on players.

Of the newcomers, junior point guard Emmanuel Jenkins (5'11''-G) has Johnson gushing about his potential ability to lead the up-tempo style of offense and pressing defense that the Nanooks want to play.

'He's going to make this team go. He can do it all. He's a well-rounded point guard,' Johnson said. 'The starting point guard position is his to lose, without a doubt.'

Jenkins comes to Fairbanks from Tacoma Community College, where last year he averaged a whopping 25.3 points while dishing out 5.6 assists and grabbing five rebounds per game. As a freshman, Jenkins saw action in all 32 games for NCAA Division I Portland State.

Provided he improves his conditioning, a possible backcourt mate for Jenkins is guard Kevin Buggs, who comes from Compton Community College after a year at DI San Jose State.

Other juco transfers at the guard/wing position include John Moe, a strong shooter from Everett Community College; Clay Edwin, a 'slasher' wing from Eastern Arizona College; and 6-foot-5 Tony Wilson, by way of Anchorage East High School and Yakima Junior College.

Aaron Jones, a 'combo guard' from Milwaukee who last played hoops in Florida and Casper Andersen, a 6-5 walk-on from Denmark, will also play wing.

The most promising newcomer in the post might be 6-7, 245-pound Demetrius Love, whom Johnson said could become an 'inside force.'

'He's going to be a bruiser. I have to get him in shape right now,' Johnson said, adding that there's plenty of time for conditioning since the Nanooks' first game isn't until Nov. 15.

Then there's 'high-flying' 6-7 Kyle Rische (Yuba JC), who draws comparisons to Atkins because of his leaping and shot-blocking abilities.

Also playing in the paint will be 6-8 Tyler Colligan, a 'paper-thin' freshman whom Johnson stumbled upon during a recruiting trip to Florida, and 6-8 freshman Evan Matteson, Colin's brother from Lynnwood, Wash., who is a good mid-range shooter.

The freshman who Johnson laments losing, though, is Mason King, a 6-0 guard who led Bristol Bay High School to the Class 2A state championship game.

'Mason King drove all the way to Fairbanks to apologize to me, but at this time he just lost his desire to play basketball,' Johnson said recently.

King has instead enrolled at Alaska Anchorage, but Johnson said the Naknek native promised he would return to UAF if he decides to play basketball in the future.

Pew and Atkins

Pew, a former football and basketball star at Eielson High School, said Monday he's 'just weighing my options' but apparently returning to the Nanooks is not among them.

Pew, an athletic 6-1 guard, averaged 4.1 points and 1.9 rebounds in 20 games last season.

'I'm just looking at working, saving some money,' said Pew, who is living in North Pole.

College athletics may still be in his future, however.

'I'm thinking about maybe going to a JC in Arizona and playing football there,' Pew said.

As for Atkins, the GNAC's second-ranked rebounder last season, he said Monday that leaving UAF was a hard decision.

'I really hated to go because I had every intention of finishing (college) in Fairbanks,' Atkins said. 'But I just had to make a decision that was right for me.'

When he wasn't benched because of foul trouble or seemingly disinterested with being on the court, Atkins was an effective sophomore who averaged 11.9 points and 7.8 rebounds a game. He could also energize the crowd by skying for a rebound or dunk.

But Atkins alluded to not seeing eye-to-eye with Johnson.

'What he wanted and I wanted wasn't the same thing. ... I wanted to keep playing (the way I was). I thought everything was going good,' Atkins said.

*****************************************************
  NEW ZEALAND   


Kirk Penney named Player of the Week in NBL - by Eurobasket News
Kiwi guard Kirk Penney (194-G-80, college: Wisconsin) was given the NBL Player of the Week award for the initial round of action in the league. The Tall Blacks guard exploded with NBL career-high 41 points to pace the New Zealand Breakers to the first win in the season. The Breakers held off the Wollongong Hawks 114:93 in the league opener. Kirk Penney also added 6 rebounds and 3 assists in his outstanding performance.
The Kiwi impacted was felt all over the world. Craig Bradshaw (207-F/C-83, college: Winthrop) opened the season with his Leon in Spanish LEB Gold. Leon thrashed Valencia 92:60 and Bradshaw contributed 6 points and 9 rebounds for the winners.
Nick Horvath (208-F/C-81, college: Duke) was impressive for the South Dragons in the NBL. He tallied 15 points and 7 rebounds for the Dragons in a 97:81 win over the Perth Wildcats. Nick Horvath then added 8 points, 5 boards and 4 assists as the South Dragons repeated their success against the Perth Wildcats 91:87 later in the week.
The Gold Coast Blaze fell short against the Cairns Taipans 75:85 and Casey Frank (203-F-77, college: N.Arizona) came up with 17 points, 9 rebounds and 5 assists in the loss. Pero Cameron (199-F-74, agency: Duran International) added 4 points in defeat. Later in the week Cameron dropped 10 points and Casey Frank registered 8 points and 11 rebounds as the Blaze were beaten by the Melbourne Tigers 76:92 on the road.
Christopher Daniel (197-G/F-85) secured 23 points propelling the Singapore Slingers to the opening 124:86 win over Air 21 in the Singapore Challenge Series. Christopher Daniel then scored 9 points as the Slingers posted the second win over Philippine Air 21 98:85.

*****************************************************
  NORWAY   


Aliens fly again - by Kaare Vangen

Asker Aliens trailed from the start against Fjellhamar Stallions but came back and got a clear 29 point win with the result 74-103. Aliens played with only Norwegian players but did not seem to miss any of the foreign players they have used to have. Stallions had the initiative up until the last two minutes of the second quarter when Aliens had a 12-0 run before the break. The rest of the match was in the control of Aliens. Stallions almost had contact a couple of times but in the last period Aliens dominated and ran over Stallions.

Fjellhamar Stallions - Asker Aliens 74 - 103 ( 21 -18, 23 -28, 17 -26, 13 -31 )

Fjellhamar: Willy Sharma 26, Aleksandar Paunovic 18, Adrian G. Rey 14, Jan Terje Normann 12, Inge Snippen 3, Runar Olsson 1

Asker: Anders Stien 21, Frank Nyborg 19, Ronny Karlsen 18, Mustafa Mahnin 15, Stian Mjos 11, Hakon Skuggedal 10, Theodor Aliferis 7, Magnus Lunde Midtvedt 2



*****************************************************
  PHILIPPINES   


Singapore Slingers defeat Air 21 twice - by Eurobasket News
The Singapore Slingers looked confident at the start of the Singapore Challenge Series. They hosted Philippine champions Air 21 and completed the sweep of two-game series. The teams met in Singapore and the visitors looked good early in the first game. They jumped to a 32:28 lead after the starting stanza. But gradually the Slingers took over and enjoyed a 12-point advantage at halftime. Air 21 failed to recover in the second half and posted a confident win. Darren Ng (189-G-83) led the Slingers with 28 points. Eric Sandrin (206-F/C-78, agency: Tank Sports, college: Seattle Pacific) tallied 24 points and 11 boards, while Christopher Daniel (197-G/F-85) added 23 points for the winners. Arwind Santos (193-F-81) answered with 24 points for the Slingers. Homer Se (196-C-77) came up with 12 points in defeat.
The Slingers extended their winning streak against Air 21 when they held off Philippine powerhouse 98:85 in the second encounter. Eric Sandrin was once again impressive with 24 points and 14 rebounds for the Slingers. Armein Kirkland (203-F/G-84) notched 22 points for the winners. Homer Se replied with 25 points for Air 21. Raidel de Ocampo knocked down 14 points and collected 10 caroms for the visitors. Air 21 once again looked better at the start as they secured a 26:16 lead after the first quarter. But the Slingers cut the deficit in the next two quarters and surged ahead for good in the fourth.
The Singapore Slingers will next take on Purefoods from Philippines.

Dragons dump Generals, rule UCAA basketball - by Eurobasket News
The Universal College of Nursing Dragons banked on their superb outside shooting to beat Emilio Aguinaldo College Generals, 85-76, and claim the title in the seventh University and Colleges Athletic Association basketball tournament Wednesday at the TIP-Manila gym.

The Dragons pulled away late in the game behind the forays of Cedric Matugas and Mike Montilla. The duos back-to-back treys gave the Dragons a 77-67 lead, 4:11 left in the game.

The Generals refused to roll over and die. John Santos sparked a 6-2 run to pull the Generals to within 73-79, 2:26 to go.

But the Dragons wouldnt be denied, scoring eight straight points to post the games biggest lead at 85-73.They were never seriously threatened the rest of the way.

UCN was only the third team to win the title. St. Francis of Assisi College and EAC split the first six titles in the league.

Montilla and Matugas, who was named Finals MVP, led UCN with 18 points apiece.

Credit goes to the players. Grabe ang dinepensa nila. Kahit pagod na pagod na sila, dumepensa pa rin sila. Usapan namin kanina, there will be no easy baskets for EAC. Hindi kasi namin in-expect na makarating kami dito, said coach Yong Garcia.

Garcia was referring to their vaunted zone defense, which held prolific guard Argel Mendoza scoreless in the fourth period.

Mendoza still led the Generals with 18 points despite his struggles late in the game. Fotue added 14 points.

Courtesy of http://www.manilatimes.net

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


Changes in Angrabasket/Palmeiras Park - by Luis Rocha
After the inadaptation of Donnovan Brown (206-F-82, college: Georgetown, KY) at ht eisland of Angra, the team had to search the market in order to find a replacement. They now seemed to have a nice business in hands with the signing od Robert Hines (196-F, college: St.Francis,NY). Hines is not a center like Brown was, hines is a forward, but he can pick inside positions and knows how to play back to the board. Now its time to the coach of Angrabasket learn the best way to take good profit of their new player, and its also time to know if Hines can settle himself on the island and on the team, it will be a pity if also this one fail to do that.

Barreirense signed Bruce Brown - by Bruno Baltazar
FC Barreirense just finded their replacement to Calvin Brown (206-C-83, agency: Court Side, college: Norfolk St.) that did not adapted to the portuguese basketball.
Bruce Brown (213-C-83, college: Hampton) it is his name ,he is center,25 years old,2.13m,he loves to create contact in the lane, simply enjoys physical play.Establishes low post position with ease due to his upper body strength. Strong finisher who takes the ball to the basket with great authority. Great post defender and shot blocker.
In his senior year in 2005-2006: Hampton college(NCAA): 32 games: 10.2ppg, 6.4rpg, 1.9bpg, FG: 54.2%, FT: 46.0%
After that he did a workout with the Kings of the NBA,in Feb.'07 signed at J.S.Kairouan (TUNISIA): 18.2ppg, 12.0rpg, 5.0bpg where he got in the league semifinals.
2008: In January signed at Wilmington Sea Dawgs (PBL,1T): 14.8ppg, 7.3rpg, 2.6bpg, FG: 58.3%, FT: 71.0%, in April moved to Toowoomba Mountaineers (Australia-ABA, starting five): 15.5ppg,8.8rpg,1.4apg, 2.1bpg, FGP: 56.5%

Antonio Pratas trophy is here - by Bruno Baltazar
The edition of Antonio Pratas that opens the season is here ,tomorrow we wil see the first serious games of the season after some preseason games.
The trophy is divided with his side in Proliga and the LPB league each side is divided into 3 zones(north,south and center) with each zone made of 4 teams,every team plays against each other in each zone making at the end 6 zones champions and the week fallowing(next week) its the start of the leagues.

Antonio Pratas trophy of LPB :

North zone
Guimares,Porto,Ovarense and Vagos

Center zone:
Ginasio , Fisica and Academica ,inicially Lusitania would participe in this group as well but it will not be because federation rulled out the team.

South Zone:
CAB,Belenenses,Barreirense and Benfica


Antonio Pratas trophy in PROLIGA:

North Zone:
Basquete Barcelos,Maia ,Esgueira and Illiabum

Center Zone:
Angra Basket ,Sampaense ,Elctrico and FC-Sangalhos

South zone:
Atltico,Galitos ,Queluz and Seixal

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


BSN Briefs - by Luis Ramirez
According to information provided by BSN, brothers Eddin and Orlando Santiago have signed with Mexico's Liga Nacional de Baloncesto Profesional. Younger brother Eddin signed with Venados de Nuevo Laredo, while Orlando signed with Panteras de Aguascalientes, where Ponce's forward Gabriel Colon will be his teammate. Currently this Mexican League has 15 Puerto Rican players playing for this Leagues, these are: Giovanni Jimenez, Sammy Villegas and Keenan Jourdon who play for Dorados de Chihuahua. Luis Villafane and Robert Rocha for Potros. Fernando Ortiz who plays for Santos Reales, Ricardo Melendez who plays for Tecos UAG, Franklin Western and Alex Falcon who play for Halcones de Cordoba. Alejandro Carmona for Fuerza Regia, Harry Ramirez for Loros and Karim Malpica for Algonoderos.

Additional information from the BSN indicate that Darnell Hinson is currently playing in Australia with the Perth Wildcats. Over in Uruguay, Angelo Reyes scored 19 points and captured 13 rebounds but his team lost to Atenas 90-71 in the Uruguayan League.

Over in Hungary, Alvin Cruz has joined Club Soproni Sordogok in the A division. Another puertorican playing in this same League is Sharif Fajardo who plays for Atomeromu.

Information received from Chile indicated that forward/Center Ivan Lopez has been released from Club Universidad Catolica apparently due to differences over the player's work ethics. Meanwhile Filiberto Rivera scored 10 points and had 2 assists playing in the German League.

Finally, Carlos Arroyo who currently plays for Maccabi Tel Aviv scored 13 points in a a loss against CSKA Moscu and Arroyo's team finished in 4th place in the Alexander Gomelsky Cup.

Courtesy of BSN

Harlem Globetrotters announce historic signing of first-ever Puerto Rican player - by Eurobasket News
The World Famous Harlem Globetrotters have signed the first Puerto Rican-born player in the team's storied history, inking 6-8 dunking sensation Orlando Melendez (202-F/C-79, agency: Next Level, college: N.Carolina). 'El Gato', a native of Ponce, Puerto Rico, and a former North Carolina Tar Heel, will join four other Globetrotter rookies as the team opens training camp in New York on Monday, Sept. 29.

El Gato joins fellow rookie Trevor 'Tiny' Lawrence -- born in Jamaica -- as part of a group of only 18 players to be born outside of the 50 United States among the Globetrotters' 650-plus alumni. The seven-foot Lawrence, who grew up in Las Vegas, played his college ball at New Mexico State.

The other rookies joining 'the world's most famous team' for training camp in New York are:

-- William 'Bull' Bullard from Detroit, who was selected in the Globetrotters' second annual player draft in 2008 out of Texas A&M-Corpus Christi and finished second in the 2008 College Slam Dunk Championship at the Final Four in San Antonio.

-- Shagari 'Skyscraper' Alleyne, a 7-4 center hailing from the Bronx, a former Kentucky Wildcat who spent time in the Philadelphia 76ers' training camp last season.

-- High-flying guard Ron ''Copter' Christy from Stratford, Conn., and Teikyo Post University.

These rookie stalwarts will join Globetrotter stars Special K Daley, Scooter Christensen, Flight Time Lang and Wildkat Edgerson, as well as new fan favorites such as Ant Atkinson -- last year's top overall draft pick -- Handles Franklin, Blenda Rodriguez and many others, as the Globetrotters prepare for their 83rd consecutive season of touring the world.

The Globetrotters' training camp will culminate with a return to the neighborhood that inspired their name on Wednesday, Oct. 8 at 10:30 a.m. EDT. For the second straight year, the team will showcase their spectacular brand of fun, family entertainment for thousands of smiling Harlem school children during a private performance against the Washington Generals at the 369th Harlem Armory.

Presented in cooperation with the NYC Police Athletic League, the Globetrotters will debut the exciting new show for their upcoming 2009 World Tour.

'Last year's show at the 369th Harlem Armory was an overwhelming success,' said Globetrotters CEO Kurt Schneider. 'The Armory and Police Athletic League were such gracious hosts and the kids had so much fun, we've been eager to come back. Last year's event was the springboard to a phenomenal record-breaking tour that re-energized the organization and returned the Globetrotters to iconic pop culture status.'

Although this is the second straight year the Globetrotters will perform in Harlem, it is only the fourth time in history that the team has played in the Manhattan neighborhood. The first was in 1968, the second in 1987.

Sponsored by Campbell Soup Company, the Harlem Globetrotters have played in 119 countries on six continents, entertaining over 128 million fans and crossing barriers between cultures, societies and people from all walks of life. The Globetrotters are one of only six teamsto be inducted into the Naismith Memorial Basketball Hall of Fame. For the latest news and information about the Harlem Globetrotters, and to purchase team merchandise, visit the team's official Web site: www.harlemglobetrotters.com.

SOURCE: Harlem Globetrotters

Courtesy of http://www.marketwatch.com

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


CSKA beat Maccabi for the third place in Gomelskiy Cup - by Eurobasket News
CSKA-Maccabi 76:59

The defending Euroleague Basketball champion CSKA Moscow finished third in the home tournament last night. Moscow saw a 79:56 win over Maccabi in the game for the third place in Gomelskiy Cup. Erazem Lorbek (210-F/C-84, college: Michigan St.) led the winners with 22 points and 7 rebounds. Trajan Langdon (192-G-76, college: Duke) notched 15, while Viktor Khryapa (204-F/G-82) 12 points and Terrence Morris had 8. Carlos Arroyo (188-G-79, agency: Interperformances, college: Florida Intern.) top-scored for the guests with 13 points and Rodney White (206-F-80, college: Charlotte) nailed 12.

CSKA deserved also a Final as well as Maccabi that lost to Panathinaikos only in overtime. Both teams struggled as if they played in the Final and brought lots of interest in the game for the third place. The Russian squad opened the game with 21:20, but could not hold the lead. Maccabi played as good as the y used to and won the second period 22:16.
Trailing 5 points at the halftime was a not a problem for the defending Euroleague Basketball champion. CSKA had a great break and entered the third period with a desire to win. Russian squad produced 26:7 in the third period to take the full control of the game. With another 13:10 they finished the game at 76:59 and clinched the third place in the tournament at home.

Zalgiris Kaunas triumphed in Gomelskiy Cup last night in Moscow, Russia. Lithuanian team trailed after the first half but managed to go in front and to keep the lead in the second. With 20:11 in the last stanza Zalgiris lifted up the trophy with 80:69 victory. Paulius Jankunas and Ratko Varda led the winners with 15 points apiece. Marcus Brown and Jonas Maciulis scored 11 each, while Willie Deane recorded 9 points.

CSKA:Erazem Lorbek 22 points and 7 rebounds, Trajan Langdon 15, Viktor Khryapa 12 points, Terrence Morris 8
Maccabi:Carlos Arroyo 13, Rodney White 12

*****************************************************
  SAINT KITTS   


2008 Revised Fixture - by Richard
Date Time Div Venue Game
SAT20th 6:30 pm
8:00 pm A
Basketball City
Basketball City Wariors vs. Newton Ground
Antigua vs. President Selection
Sun 21st
6:30 pm
8:00 pm
PRE

Basketball City Basketball City
Blue Devils vs. Ghetto Roots
St.Pauls vs. Antigua
Mon 22nd
6:00 pm
8:00 pm JR
A Basketball City
Basketball City Hitters vs.Newton Ground
Troters vs. Rockers x1
Tues 23rd
6:30pm
8:00 pm A
PRE Basketball City
Basketball City Wariors vs. Chapurtin
Hitters vs. Rootsie
Wed 24th
6:30 pm
FEM
Basketball City
Spartans vs. Blue Devils

Thurs 25th 6:30 pm
8:00 pm A
PRE Basketball City
Basketball City T ickers vs. Wolf Pack
St.Pauls vs. Blue Devils
Sat 27th
6:30 pm
8:00 pm A
PRE Basketball City Basketball City Dieppe Bay vs. Conaree
Rootsie vs. Blue Devils
Sun 28th
6:30 pm
8:00 pm A
PRE
Basketball City
Basketball City
Trotters vs. Exodus
Hitters vs St.Pauls

Mon 29th
6:30 pm
8:00 pm JR.
A Basketball City
Basketball City Hitters vs. Sandy Point
Wolf Pack vs. Chappurtin
Tues 30th 6:30 pm
8:00 pm FEM
A Basketball City
Basketball City Blue Devils vs. Ghetto Roots
Dieppe Bay vs. Exodus
Wed 1st
OCTOBER 6:30 pm
8:00 pm FEM
A Basketball City
Basketball City St.Pauls vs. Spartans
Rockersx1 vs. Warriors
Thurs 2nd 6:30 pm
8:00 pm
8:30 pm A
PRE
PRE Basketball City Basketball City Quakers vs. Exodus
St. Pauls vs.Cotton Ground
Hitters vs.Coton Ground
Sat 4th 6:00 pm
8:00 pm A
A Basketball City
Basketball City Wariors vs. Exodus
Trotters vs. Wolf Pack
Sun 5th 6:30 pm
8:00 pm A
PRE Basketball City
Basketball City Chapurtin vs. Dieppe Bay
Ghetto Roots vs. Fig Tree
Mon 6th 6:30 pm
8:00 pm FEM
A Basketball City
Basketball City Spartansvs. Ghetto Roots
Trotters vs. Conaree
Tues7th 6:30 pm
8:00 pm A
PRE Basketball City
Basketball City Tickers vs. Rockers x1
Hitters vs. Cayon
Wed 8th 6:30 pm
8:00 pm FEM
A Basketball City
Basketball City St.Pauls vs. Ghetto Roots
Wolf Pack vs. Conaree
Thurs 9th 6:30 pm
8:00 pm A
PRE Basketball City
Basketball City Warriors vs. Trotters
Cayon vs. rootsie
Sat 11th 6:30 pm
8:00 pm A
A Basketball City
Basketball City Rockers X1 vs. Newton Ground
Wolf Pack vs. Warriors
Sun 12th 6:30 pm
8:00 pm A
PRE Basketball City
Basketball City Trotters vs. Tickers
Ghetto Roots vs. Rootsie
Mon 13th 6:30 pm
8:00 pm FEM
A Basketball City
Basketball City Blue Devils vs.Cayon
Exodus vs.Conaree
Tues 14th 6:30 pm
8:00 pm A
A Basketball City
Basketball City Rockers X1 vs. Dieppe Bay
Conaree vs. Tickers
Wed 15th 6:30pm
8:00pm A
A Basketball City
Basketball City Quakers vs. Warriors
Trotters vs.Newton Ground
Thurs 16th 6:30pm
8:00pm A
A Basketball City
Basketball City Diepe Bay vs.Tickers
Exodus vs.RockersX1
Sat 18th 6:30pm
8:00pm A
A Trotters vs.Conaree
Wolf Pack vs.Dieppe Bay


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


Standings - A Liga
A Standings
 1. Metalac 0-0 
 2. Zdravlje 0-0 
 3. Novi Sad 0-0 
 4. Masinac 0-0 
 5. Borac 0-0 
 6. Sloga 0-0 
 7. Radnicki 034 0-0 
 8. Napredak 0-0 
 9. Ergonom 0-0 
 10. Mega HL 0-0 
 11. Swiss.Lions 0-0 
 12. Vizura 0-0 
 13. Tamis 0-0 
Will join on later stage:
 1. Hemofarm - 
 2. Crvena Zvez. - 
 3. Partizan - 
 4. Vojvodina - 
 5. FMP - 


Standings - B Liga
B League Standings
 1. Beograd 0-0 
 2. Beovuk 72 0-0 
 3. Vrbas 0-0 
 4. Sloboda U. 0-0 
 5. Proleter Naft. 0-0 
 6. Maraton 0-0 
 7. Kikinda 0-0 
 8. FMP II 0-0 
 9. Vojvodina Z. 0-0 
 10. Crnokosa 0-0 
 11. Radnicki I. 0-0 
 12. Superfund 0-0 
 13. Obrenovac 0-0 
 14. Mladost C. 0-0 
 15. Crvena Zv. 2 0-0 


Pre-season friendly games: Crvena Zvezda lost from Metalac, Masinac won against Zdravlje, Novi Sad beated Vrbas - by Zoran Popovic
In friendly match played in Belgrade, Vujic Vujic Metalac Valjevo Valjevo won against KK Crvena Zvezda Beograd 68-77 (16-25, 16-25, 17-16, 19-11). From the begining Vujic Metalac Valjevo played very agresively and in the half time Vujic Metalac Valjevo had 18 points advantage (32-50). In the third and fourth quarter KK Crvena Zvezda Beograd played much stonger and agresive, but that wasnt enough to reach Vujic Metalac Valjevo advantage from the first half.

KK Crvena Zvezda Beograd: Marinovic 16, Owens 13, Kikanovic 6, Kovac 3, Stimac 3, Keselj 12, Roberts 15.
Vujic Metalac Valjevo: Tanaskovic 2, Teodosic 14, Ljubojevic 7, Beljic 2, Jereminovic 8, Marojevic 6, Nicovec 14, Bircevic 12, Gagovic 12.

Intresting friendly match played in Kraljevo between KK Masinac Krajlevo and KK Zdravlje Actavis Leskovac. KK Masinac Krajlevo won against KK Zdravlje Actavis Leskovac in their last friendly match in pre-season 79-73 (11-18, 28-19, 21-16, 19-20). Better than others in KK Masinac Krajlevo were Nikola Tutus (203-F-85) with 27 points and Milasinovic 12 points, and in KK Zdravlje Actavis Leskovac Vladica Jovanovic who scored 17 points.

KK Masinac Krajlevo: Nikola Tutus 27, Tomasevic 1, Radulovic 7, Barlov 2, Milasinovic 12, Popovic 9, Balas, Mirkovic 10, Arsic, Jacovic, Vuletic, Cupkovic 11.
KK Zdravlje Actavis Leskovac: Radivojevic, Ilic 6, Mukanovic 6, Trajkovic 2, I. Jovanovic 8, V. Jovanovic 17, Kocic, Janjusevic 4, Marjanovic, Mitic 13, Krstic 5, Mikic 10.


BC Novi Sad Panonska Banka players beated OKK Vrbas, member of Serbian Ib league 91-76 (19-23, 29-21, 24-14, 19-18). OKK Vrbas players showed good game and resist during the first two quarters, but BC Novi Sad Panonska Banka made break and won the match with more experienced and better players.

BC Novi Sad Panonska Banka: Kovacevic 14, Martinovic 2, Djuric, Egeric 11, Jagodic 12, Bunic 12, Breca, Prbric 13, Tmusic 12, Subotic 7, Tomasevic, Solotic, Rakic 7.
OKK Vrbas: Markovic 10, Popovic 5, Bajic 23, Kovacevic 14, Matic 10, Glusac, Vujicic 6, Doknic, Hromis, Peronovic, Pap 8, Borovic.

Latest signings - by Dragan Jankovski
Experienced small forward Miroslav Markovic (201-F-75, agency: Beo Basket) returned to his ex team Mega Hypo Leasing. Markovic started last season in Vojvodina Srbijagas playing 18 games in Adriatic league with average digits 5 ppg, 3.6 rpg and 1.4 spg. Later he joined Ukrainian team Cherkassy Monkeys. He had 6 appearances in Superleague recording 9.8 ppg, 4.7 rpg and 1.2 apg. He already played for Mega on season 06/07. Except of these three teams, Markovic also used to play for Levallois, Apollon Patras, Lavovi 063, Nancy, FMP, Zdravlje and Sabac. In 2003 he won Yugoslavian National Cup with FMP. At the same year Panthers reached ULEB Cup quarterfinals.

Bulgarian A1 team Balkan Botevgrad agreed terms with Marko Popadic (190-G-89, agency: Beo Basket). Young point guard played previous couple of years for Crvena Zvezda's young selections. Last season he was promoted to senior team but didn't have any official game. Popadic was a member of Serbian U18 Naional Team in 2005. He new team Balkan Botevgrad already signed / re-signed six players: Atanas Radev, Boiko Milenkov, Martin Marinov, Martin Horozov, Tsenko Nakov and Nebojsa Ristic. Balkan succeeded to reach play-off final last season but Lukoil Akademik was too strong for it.

Hemofarm STADA opens 'Cedevita Cup' with victory - by Dragan Jankovski
In the first game of 'Cedevita Cup', which started yesterday in Croatian capital Zagreb, Hemofarm STADA outplayed another Adriatic league participant Krka Novo Mesto 73-57. Slovenian team was slightly better at the very beginning making plus 1 after 10 minutes. As soon as coach Karadzic introduced member of Serbian National Team Stefan Markovic (191-G-88) Hemofarm started to play much better. In just few minutes of the second quarter the orange team grabbed 4-point lead. Thanks to triples by Boris Savovic (207-F-87) and Stefan Markovic, as well as good job in the paint by Boban Marjanovic (221-C-88), Hemofarm touched plus 10. Later Vladan Vukosavljevic (206-F/C-84, agency: Beo Basket) and Nebojsa Joksimovic (193-G-81, agency: Beo Basket) woke up helping their team to reach plus 20 at the one point in third quarter. At that time it was already clear that team of head coach Ivan Sunara will suffer defeat in the first game of 'Cedivita Cup'.
Boris Savovic was the best scorer in Hemofarm with 12 points. Slovenian guard Nebojsa Joksimovic followed him with one point less. Stefan Markovic and Bojan Krstovic (194-G-80) netted 9 points each. Krka Novo Mesto got the most from experienced Davor Marcelic (200-F/G-69, college: S.Utah), who netted 17 points. Silt had 15 while Smiljan Pavic (210-F/C-80, agency: VTBM/SRBM) added 10 points.

In the other game Cedevita outsmarted Bosna ASA BHT 77-76. Thus in the final Hemofarm STADA will meet the host team. Bosna ASA BHT and Krka will fight for third place. Both games will be played today.

Hemofarm: Nebojsa Joksimovic 11, Pavkovic 5, Bojan Krstovic 9, Macvan 7, Vladan Vukosavljevic 10, Boris Savovic 12, Bozovic 4, Stefan Markovic 9, Petrovic 4, Borisov, Boban Marjanovic 2.
DNP: Igrutinovic.
Krka: Pavic 10, Marcelic 17, Krivec 3, Silt 15, Balazic 4, Zvan, Zupevec, Rakocevic 4, Petrov 4, Sebic.
DNP: Kovacevic.

Dusan Katnic leads Mega against Lvov, Swisslions beats Vojvodina - by Dragan Jankovski
Young Belgrade's team Mega Hypo Leasing met Ukrainian Politekhnika Lvov in a friendly game celebrating tight victory 91-88. Mega took this one mostly owing to well played last quarter but also to young prospect Dusan Katnic (193-G-89), who made a basket with a foul at the very end. He drained the following free throw for the final score 91-88. Belgrade's team finished last period 32-24. Interesting is that Ukrainians entered to it having plus 5 but they weren't able to keep that lead. Dusan Katnic was clutch player of the game for Mega Hypo Leasing netting 22 points. Another youngster, shooting guard Stefan Stojacic (195-G-89) was good scoring 18 points. New acquisition of Mega HL Chris Schlatter (201-G/F-81, college: Washington St.) had 17 points. Serbian forward Jovan Koprivica (198-G/F-82, agency: Beo Basket) shined in Politekhnika Lvov adding 22 points. Dmitri Kuzmin (197-G-75) was behind him with 16 points.

Mega HL: Markovic 9, Schlatter 17, Mijajlovic 2, Cvetkovic 2, Katnic 22, Mitrovic 8, Stojacic 18, Matovic 4, Nikolic 3, Grujicic, Maravic, Ljubojevic.
Politekhnika: Kudrautsau 9, Novitskas 2, Kuznecov 10, Ageev 5, Forvayukov, Zybrutskyi 8, Kuzmin 16, Gurtovoy, Koprivica 22, Pustahvar 2, Reka, Aliakseyeu 14


Vojvodina Srbijagas suffered home defeat against Swisslions Takovo 68-71. It was very interesting game and like the one above, it was resolved at the very end. Thanks to triple by Jevhic with 40 seconds remaining in the game Swisslions grabbed 2-point lead. Darko Habus (186-G-82, agency: 011 Sports) tried to respond from behind the arc but his shot was rejected. On the other side Vladimir Popovic (191-G-82) made one free throw for the final plus 3. Jevhic was the leading scorer in his team with 16 points. Actually he was the only one with double digits for the winners. Center Goran Bajic (207-C-83) netted 17 points for Vojvodina. Marko Pekovic (193-G-81, agency: Beo Basket), who couple of days before decided to stay re-sign with the Tulips, drained 16 points.

Vojvodina: Popovic 2, Habus 4, Zdravkovic 3, Radenkovic, Pekovic 16, Cavic 3, Borovnjak 8, Bajic 17, Jovanovic 11, Pavkovic 3, Hajdukovic 1.
Swisslions: Popovic 8, Vlaskovic 5, Ninkovic, Markovic 9, Jorovic 9, Sladoje, Kasabasic 3, Mijatovic, Marjanovic 6, Kovacevic 6, Knezevic 9, Jevhic 16.

Standings - 1 Srpska Liga
1Srpska Standings
Group Central
 1. Radnicki B. 0-0 
 2. Mladost Ze. 0-0 
 3. Kolubara 0-0 
 4. Kotez 0-0 
 5. Zemun Lasta 0-0 
 6. Viva Basket 0-0 
 7. Grocka 0-0 
 8. Partizan MT 0-0 
 9. Beovuk 72 MT 0-0 
 10. Sport EKO 0-0 
 11. Sava 0-0 
 12. Panda 0-0 
 13. Torlak 0-0 
 14. Vojvoda 0-0 
Group East
 1. Soko Banja 0-0 
 2. Bor RTB 0-0 
 3. Jablanica M. 0-0 
 4. Knjazevac 0-0 
 5. Eko Basket 0-0 
 6. Junior Nis 0-0 
 7. Mladost Za. 0-0 
 8. Pirot 0-0 
 9. Jug Vranje 0-0 
 10. Boljevac 0-0 
 11. Napredak A. 0-0 
 12. Morava 0-0 
 13. Prokuplje 0-0 
 14. KK Nis 0-0 
Group North
 1. Srem 0-0 
 2. Spartak S. 0-0 
 3. Inetjija 0-0 
 4. Jedinstvo NB 0-0 
 5. Sveti DZ 0-0 
 6. Nova Pazova 0-0 
 7. Duga NS 0-0 
 8. FKL 0-0 
 9. Sport Key NS 0-0 
 10. NS Junior 0-0 
 11. Krajisnik 0-0 
 12. Banovci 0-0 
 13. Mladost BJ 0-0 
 14. Backa Topola 0-0 
Group West
 1. Priboj 0-0 
 2. Pozega 0-0 
 3. Goc V.Banja 0-0 
 4. Novi Pazar 0-0 
 5. Krusavec 0-0 
 6. Svilajnac 0-0 
 7. Zeleznicar C. 0-0 
 8. Zlatibor 0-0 
 9. Jagodina 0-0 
 10. Zlatar NV 0-0 
 11. Arilje 0-0 
 12. Sabac 0-0 
 13. Smederevo 0-0 
 14. Prva Petolet. 0-0 


*****************************************************
  SINGAPORE   


Singapore Slingers defeat Air 21 twice - by Eurobasket News
The Singapore Slingers looked confident at the start of the Singapore Challenge Series. They hosted Philippine champions Air 21 and completed the sweep of two-game series. The teams met in Singapore and the visitors looked good early in the first game. They jumped to a 32:28 lead after the starting stanza. But gradually the Slingers took over and enjoyed a 12-point advantage at halftime. Air 21 failed to recover in the second half and posted a confident win. Darren Ng (189-G-83) led the Slingers with 28 points. Eric Sandrin (206-F/C-78, agency: Tank Sports, college: Seattle Pacific) tallied 24 points and 11 boards, while Christopher Daniel (197-G/F-85) added 23 points for the winners. Arwind Santos (193-F-81) answered with 24 points for the Slingers. Homer Se (196-C-77) came up with 12 points in defeat.
The Slingers extended their winning streak against Air 21 when they held off Philippine powerhouse 98:85 in the second encounter. Eric Sandrin was once again impressive with 24 points and 14 rebounds for the Slingers. Armein Kirkland (203-F/G-84) notched 22 points for the winners. Homer Se replied with 25 points for Air 21. Raidel de Ocampo knocked down 14 points and collected 10 caroms for the visitors. Air 21 once again looked better at the start as they secured a 26:16 lead after the first quarter. But the Slingers cut the deficit in the next two quarters and surged ahead for good in the fourth.
The Singapore Slingers will next take on Purefoods from Philippines.

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


Casta SPU Nitra inks another American, Levice plays 3 friendly games - by Eurobasket News
Last season's play-off quarterfinalist Casta SPU Nitra announced signing of another American. Except of the big guy Dametri Hill (203-C-74, college: Florida), Nitra added point guard Eugene Lawrence (185-G-86). Namely the team was close to sign point guard Vid Zarkovic but he decided to stay in Serbia. Nitra also negotiated with Giordan Watson (178-G-85, college: Cent.Michigan), who at the end moved to German Bundeslague. However, GM of Casta SPU Nitra Juraj Polak is very satisfied with this signing.
Eugene Lawrence is coming from St. John's University, where he graduated this year. For 30 NCAA1 games he averaged 7.7 ppg, 2.8 rpg, 3.7 apg and 1.7 spg. Interesting is that second year with St. Johns was the best one for Lawrence. He appeared 27 times for his University that season adding 9.3 ppg, 4.8 rpg, 4.9 apg and 1.6 spg. Chris Mullin and Ron Artest came out from St. John's in the past.

Meanwhile, Slovintegra Levice played three friendly games in just three days registering score 0-3. In the first game Paks was better than Levice 87-54. Richard Klein (196-F-77), who scored 15 points, was the only player with double digits in Levice. In game number two Levice suffered defeat vs Hungarian Kecskemet 71-83. Richard Klein this time netted 20 points. Jankovic followed him adding 16 points. In third game BC Kolin blasted Levice 101-66. Once again the loosing side got the most from Richard Klein, 22 points. Steve Rich (208-C-72, agency: Global Sports Plaza, college: Miami, FL) netted 18.

Pezinok play at Kontext Cup in Czech Republic - by Eurobasket News
Slovakian powerhouse Pezinok visited Czech Republic to take part in the International friendly tournament Kontext Cup. Pezinok participated in the Cup alongside Geofin and Pardubice from Czech Republic and Austrian Furstenfeld.
Pezinok took on Geofin in the opener. The hosts looked better and easily ran away to a 20-point advantage at halftime. Pezinok were unable to bounce back in the second half and lost the battle at the end. Robert Sarovic (205-F-78) led the winners with 20 points for Geofin. Peter Micuda (206-C-72), Dusan Snopko (195-G-75) and Branislav Brlit (205-C-85, agency: Promotex) answered with 11 points each for Pezinok.
Pezinok next faced Pardubice and dropped the second straight game. Pardubice led by just a single point at the first intermission but went on a run in the second frame to pile up a 24-point advantage at three-quarter time. Pardubice eased to a 86:60 win at the end. Branislav Brlit secured 13 points to pace Pezinok. Jozef Bucak (207-C-81, agency: LBM Management) added 10 points, while Richard Grznar (187-G-91, agency: Regeneracom Sports) had 9 points in defeat.
Unfortunately Pezinok failed to taste victory at the tournament. In the third round of action Slovakian champions fell short against Furstenfeld 86:98. This time Pezinok stayed close throughout four terms but still lacked effort to pull away with a win. J.J. Sullinger (196-G-82, agency: 540 Sports, college: Ohio St.) knocked down 19 points to pace Furstenfeld. Andrej Lukjanec (203-F/C-69) answered with 24 points for Pezinok. Peter Micuda dropped 11 points in a losing clause.

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


Union Olimpija claims the Slovenian Supercup - by Eurobasket News
Union Olimpija won over Helios Domzale 67:56 to claim the Slovenian Supercup last night. The Slovenian champs made their move with a 22-2 tear that bridged the third and fourth quarters and set the stage for an easy win. Marko Milic (199-G-77) and Vlado Ilievski (190-G-80, agency: World Sport Agency) led the way with 14 points apiece and Saso Ozbolt (188-G-81, agency: World Sport Agency) added 12. Domen Zerak (203-C-79, agency: VTBM/SRBM) led the way for the losing team with 13 points in defeat. Ziga Zagorc (188-G-84, agency: VTBM/SRBM) nailed 11 and Snow scored 9.
It seemed that the game started easy for the hosts that won the opening quarter 25:14. Helios Domzale however did not panic and stayed calm in the game. They answered with 22:9 in the second period to take 36:34 lead at the halftime.
The Final remained tough in the third period when it was time for the Union Olimpija to come back into the campaign. The hosts posted 18:8 in the third for 52:44 at the end of it. In the beginning of the last stanza Union increased to 57:44 and dominated the court until the end. After 15:12 in the last frame Olimpija increased to 67:56 as a total.
Both teams started another season with a great game in the Slovenian Supercup. This weekend Union Olimpija will open the upcoming season with pre-season Tournament Ljubljana 2008 which will take place in Tivoli arena. Clubs which will take part in this tournament will be top Euroleague teams such as Panathinaikos Athens, Fenerbahce Ulker Istanbul, Maccabi Electra Tel-Aviv and home team Union Olimpija Ljubljana.

Union Olimpija: Wallace 2, Vlado Ilievski 14, Golubovic 8, Rudez, Milic 14, Hukic 11, Begic 4, Sarajlija, Sirnik, Zupan 2, Ozbolt 12.
Helios Domzale: Zalokar, Tratnik, Petrovic 6, Ziga Zagorc 11, Krusic 4, Domen Zerak 13, Mocnik 2, Laskevic 6, Skrlec, Bajramlic, Zagorac 5, Snow 9

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


Pre-Season Round Up (22,23,24 Sep Games) - by Paul Nilsen
It has been a busy few days of pre-season writes acb-basket.com. Touring Croatian team KK Zagreb handed Pamesa Valencia a 72-64 success on Tuesday with 19 points from Rafa Martinez helping Tarjona to the win despite not having Perovic available. Dikoudis also reached double figures with 10 points as Pamesa controlled the game for long periods.

However Zagreb did bounce back the following night to inflict a dramatic 81-82 defeat on Polaris World Murcia. It was a real disappointment for Murcia since the visitors made a last gasp three-pointer to take the win in a game that the ACB team had led by six points at the midway point. However a really poor third quarter when they were outscored 27-18 by the Croatians put them in trouble and it looked like they might squeeze out a victory before that match winning shot. Jesse Yung top scoring with 18 points for Murcia.

In a similarly exciting and tense encounter, a Basque derby in fact, San Sebastian side GBC Bruesa hosted but lost out to Tau Ceramica 67-68. Despite losing, Bruesa are showing they could be a force by asking some real questions of the play-off champions just three months after ascending into the ACB. Hopkins scored 12 points for Bruesa while Lopez, Marconato and Sanchez all claimed 10 points off the bench. However the games top scorer was also off the bench, but he was in a Tau vest with Sam Emeterio having a great disaply with 16 points to guide Baskonia to another pre-season victory in front of a huge pre-season crowd of over 5,000.

Despite trailing at half time, Fuenlabrada overcame CAI Zaragoza to record an 87-80 win thanks mainly to a superb shooting display by backcourt scorers Saul Blanco and Brad Oleson (191-G-83, agency: Duran International, college: Alaska-Fairb.) who scored 16 and 18 points respectively. Big man Antonion Bueno continued his good pre season for and picked up 16 points while new point guard Valters claimed 6 points. For Zaragoza this was a disappointing loss on the basis that they looked the most likely winner in parts but lost their momentum in the second half.

Over 1,000 fans were in attendance in Ibiza to watch Ricoh Manresa heap more worries on Iurbentia Bilbao who have had an inconsistent pre-season. Manresa winning 77-70 in a game that was more comfortable for the Catalans than the score perhaps suggests. They were ahead by as many as 15 at 44-59 and ran out comfortable winners despite a late rally from Bilbao. The one positive aspect for both coaches is that all but one Manresa player failed to score. Bilbao will be looking to bounce straight back against ViveMenorca.

Finally in their gruelling schedule, a tiring KK Zagreb faced CB Granada who took full advantage with an 83-74 win with Coach Poch rotating all of his players and the full eleven on the roster all getting on the score-sheet. Top of that list was Jasen who scored a game high 17 points for the Nazari.

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


Starwings Basket Regio Basel adds Amin Wright - by Eurobasket News
Another American landed to Switzerland in just few days. It is Amin Wright (187-G-80, college: Ramapo), who signed one-year deal with LNA team Starwings Basket Regio Basel. Wright is coming to Basel from German Pro B team USC Freiburg. He played 24 games for his team last season averaging 12.3 ppg, 4.2 rpg, 3 apg and 2.5 spg. 28-year old American came out from Ramapo College of New Jersey (NCAA3) in 2005. At his last season with Ramapo Wright had 16.6 ppg, 7.9 rpg, 3.6 apg and 3.8 spg. At the end of it he was voted 'NCAA D3 All-America 1st Team (by NABC) -05'. On season 05/06 he spent some time with Newark Express, which competed in ABA. He is the first new American which joined Starwings Basket Regio Basel this summer. Before him, the team already agreed terms with Nyom Daniel, Thomas Sheray and Menck Nils.
In the meantime Starwings played a friendly game against Boncourt in Basel. It was a very interesting one as Boncourt celebrated after over time 73-78.

Expect of this one, few more friendly games were played in Switzerland over the last couple of days. BBC Monthey was better than Geneva Devils at home 67-61. Benetton Fribourg Olympic suffered defeat against French Pro A team Besancon 63-87. MGS Grand-Saconnex Basket is another team which was faced with home defeat. Its LNA rival Sdent BBC Nyon outsmarted MGS 68-71.

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


Guanhu Cup results - by Chris Wang
Guanhu Cup results for the first two days. The invitational was held in Hualien, Taiwan.

Group A: Yulon, dmedia, Taiwan Mobile, Slingers
Group B: Taiwan Beer, Pure Youth, Dacin
Group C: Taiwan University Select, Kyunghee Univ., Phoenix

Sept. 24
Kyunghee 62-48 TUS
PY 94-76 Dacin
Slingers 92-84 TM
Yulon 110-82 dmedia

Sept. 25
Phoenix 110-67 TUS
Slingers 101-89 dmedia
Yulon 81-60 TM
TB 86-81 PY

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


TPBL OPEN TRYOUTS FOR : HOUSTON, CYPRESS, SAN ANGELO TEAMS - by Chris Cardenas


HOUSTON,TX - Houston, tx will be the site for the last open tryout for the 2009 TPBL season for the SAN ANGELO CHAPARRALS TEAM, and they will invite team reps from the CYPRESS SYNERGY(CYPRESS,TX) and the HOUSTON PTS teams to come out and look for more talent to add to their rosters. The Chaps are 3 time champions in the TPBL , but the Synergy and PTS are looking to come in and bring the title to south tx. So all players interested in coming out for the tryout.....here is the information you'll need.

FOR A TRYOUT FORM EMAIL LEAGUE OWNER CHRIS CARDENAS : cardenas_chris@yahoo.com

TRYOUT FEE: $50 per player

TRYOUT DATE : SAT. NOV. 22 2PM-5PM

CITY: HOUSTON, TX

** BE PREPARED TO WORK HARD, SHOW GOOD SKILLS AND SHOW THAT YOU DESERVED TO BE LOOKED AT BY ANY LEAGUE**

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


Maarty Leunen expected to sign with Efes Pilsen - by James Mullins
According to an interview with Daryl Morey, the GM of the Houston Rockets, Maarty Leunen (206-F-85) is expected to sign with Efes Pilsen Istanbul this season. The Rockets are hoping that Maarty will develop in Europe over the next few years before joining the Rockets. He is a versatile forward who was the 54th pick of the 2008 NBA Draft. He was a standout player and fan favorite at Oregon. During his senoir year, he averaged 15.2 ppg, 9.8 rpg, and 2.8 apg. His versatility and basketball IQ should fit in well with the European game and compliment an already powerful team in Efes Pilsen Istanbul.

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


Khimik outscores Odessa in the last game of the home tournament - by Eurobasket News
Khimik outscored Odessa 97:92 in the last game of the home tournament. Khimik finished with 1-2 record which gave them the third position. Odessa could not win any of three games.
Khimik won the opening quarter 21:14 to take a control of the game. Odessa was better in the second with 31:24 but that was the only quarter that they won the game. Khimik finished the game with 27:25 in the third and 26:22 in the last frame. Oleksandr Ryabchuk (189-G-89) led the way with 20 points for the winners. Jackson ended up with 19 points and 9 rebounds, while Oleksandr Kolchenko (198-F/G-88) nailed 15.
ASK Riga triumphed in the International tournament in Ukraine. After the wins over Khimik and Odessa Latvian side beat Galil Gilboa 101:93.
After the end of the Final game the administration of the tournament awarded the best players. Tolbert from Odessa was awarded the Best Guard Player. Ricardo Marsh (203-F-81, agency: Edge Sports, college: ODU) from ASK Riga got Best Forward Player, while ASK Riga's Coach Butautas Ramunas was named as Best Coach. Andriy Agafonov (207-F-86, agency: Interperformances) was awarded as the best Center in the tournament and Brian Roberts (188-G-85, agency: Arik Krayn Services) from Galil Gilboa received MVP of the Cup.

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


September 26th is the start of BBL - by Eurobasket News
Less than two days are remaining until the start of BBL Championship. On September 26th BBl planed first two games.

Marshall MK Lions and BiG Storage Cheshire Jets will meet on Friday evening. Marshall MK Lions recently participated in the Final of the Cup Winners, but lost to Guildford Heat. It was the battle between BBL Trophy champions and Cup champions and it went in favor of the Heat. Keonta Howell (193-G-85, college: Toledo) came up with a key three-pointer and Guildford secured a 68:60 victory at the end. Thus the Heat sealed a 159:149 win on aggregate.
Lions coach Vince Macauley is expecting a tough test when his side meet the Jets, but believes his new look side have the extra energy to start the season with a victory: Jets coach Paul Smith is expecting Lions to prove tough opponents as his side start the new season.
In another game of the opener the top two in last seasons BBL Championship table meet at the MetroRadio Arena. Eagles coach Fabulous Flournoy is expecting another tough encounter when last years top two go head-to-head. As we wrote above Guildford Heat won the battle for the Cup Winners. Keonta Howell led the Heat with 18 points and 11 boards. Brad Jones added 16 points and 9 assists, while Michael Martin dropped 14 points in the win. Robert Youngblood answered with 14 points and 10 rebounds for the Lions. Tommie Eddie and Michael New had 10 points apiece in defeat.

Team GB Skipper back in BBL - by Andy Webb
Newcastle Eagles are thrilled to announce the signature of Great Britain captain and former BBL Player Of The Year Andrew Sullivan (203-F-80, college: Villanova) on a two month deal.
Sullivan makes an exciting return to Newcastle having left in the summer of 2006 for the ACB in Spain where he played for DKV Joventut Badalona, he then switched to Mons in Belgium last season to play for current Team GB coach Chris Finch.
The Londoner joins up with the Eagles team having returned from International duty after skippering Team GB to its historic and ground breaking qualification for the Eurobasket 2009 tournament in Poland.
Having already played a significant part in helping to bring trophies to the club during his two previous seasons between 2004 and 2006 when he averaged almost 20 points per game, the player is looking forward to making a return to BBL action against Guildford Heat in tomorrows curtain raiser.
I am so appreciative of the fact that Fab (Flournoy) and Paul (Blake) have respect for me that they are allowing me to come back and play for the team. explained Sullivan.
I love Newcastle, the team and the city and it is home for me.
I could have gone somewhere else and there were opportunities but this is a great opportunity that is a win-win situation for everyone.
I get to play in a situation that is familiar and I get to compete in the BBL again while I see if an offer for Europe is forthcoming.
The Eagles get another body on their roster and someone who knows what Fab demands from his players.
The fact is that it is only a two month contract shouldnt take anything away from Eagles or the BBL. I have never been happier than when I was in Newcastle previously.
Eagles Managing Director Paul Blake meanwhile is naturally delighted to bring the Londoner back to the North-East and believes it is a move that should be welcomed by fans right across the country.
The unprecedented success of Team GB in qualifying for Eurobasket 2009 in Poland is something we have all celebrated in the last couple of weeks. To actually get the captain of our national team back into the BBL is a great coup, not just for the Eagles but also for the league.
The timing couldnt be better and naturally it is a terrific boost for everyone. The new season is just days away and we have one of the best players to have played in the league in recent times back on the floor.
While we know that it is only a temporary arrangement, the fact that Andrew wants to be with us is an honour for the club in many ways because we know his quality and the impact of Team GB accomplishments.
It also means we now have three former BBL Players of the Year on the team which is just incredible for us and for the fans.
The move for Sullivan was made possible thanks to financial support from the Metro Radio Arena who have been instrumental in helping bring the Londoner back to his adopted home. Chief Executive Colin Revel explained.
We are really happy to have helped in bringing one of the biggest favourites in Eagles history back to the Arena. Andrew Sullivan is the kind of quality player that the fans come to see and its great that supporters can have the privilege of watching the Team GB captain play in an Eagles vest again. I know he was massively popular the first time round and I think he will be even more popular this time.



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Women News

*****************************************************
  BALTIC LEAGUE - Women  


Ukrainian teams open Baltic League - by Eurobasket News
Dnipro, Tim-Scuf and Olimp-NAEK played their openers in BWBL season 2008-2009. Dnipro celebrated the win in Kaunas over Laisve, while Tim-Scuf beat Olimp-NAEK in Kiev.

Dnipro overcame Laisve in the opening game of Baltic league 83:54 in Kaunas. Ukrainian side started with 16:15 when the game looked tough for both teams. Later on the court was dominated only by one team. Dnipro. They won the second quarter 21:12 and improved to 37:27 at the halftime. In the third period Dnipro pushed to 28:17 and finished the game with 18:10 in the last. Olga Dubrovina (170-G-87, agency: Promotex) led the winners with 20 points, while Yahina netted 19. Kiseleva posted 15 points and made 14 rebounds, whilst Lyashkova added 11.

Tim-Scuf edged Olimp-NAEK 78:69 at home. It was a Ukrainian battle of the Baltic league and brought good feedback after the game. Tim-Scuf won all the quarters even though the game was interesting until the end of it. Shkarpela, Maznichenko and Dorogobuzova all led the way with 15 points. Oksana Buryak (176-G-79) and Alexandra Kurbatova (170-G-78) top-scored in defeat with 13, while Malynovska scored 12.

Standings
BWBL Standings
 1. Tim-Scuf 1-0 
 2. Dnipro 1-0 
 3. Spartak SP 0-0 
 4. Arvi 0-0 
 5. Lemmink. 0-0 
 6. Turiba/K. 0-0 
 7. Cesis 0-0 
 8. Tall.Living 0-0 
 9. Minsk-2006 0-0 
 10. Berezina 0-0 
 11. Olimpia 0-0 
 12. BC Star 0-0 
 13. Victoria 0-0 
 14. KAZ NT 0-0 
 15. Laisve 0-1 
 16. Ol.-NAEK 0-1 


*****************************************************
  BULGARIA - Women  


Fifth new player for Toni 7 - by Eurobasket News
Center Marina Ilieva (195-C-86) is new acquisition of A1 team Toni 7. 22-year old player spent last season in Italy. In 06/07 she played for Cherno More Odessos in A1 league. As young prospect he got a chance four times averaging 13.8 ppg, 7.8 rpg and 1.3 spg. A season before, Ilieva was a member of Dunav Rouse, which also competed in A1. She had 4 ppg in 8 games. Ilieva played for Bulgaria on U20 European Championship 2006 in Sopron adding 3 ppg and 2 rpg in 2 games.

Head coach of Toni 7 Ivailo Hristov couldn't hide happiness after signing of Marina Ilieva. He stated he is a big optimist for the upcoming season. With arrival of Marina Ilieva, Toni 7 resolved big problem in the paint.

As a reminder during the summer Toni 07 already inked Gergana Koleva (170-G-82) from NSA Delta. Contract with the club also signed, Maria Baycheva (182-F-90) from Dunav Ekont Rousse. Gergana Simova was third player which joined Toni 07 this summer. The last one, before Marina Ilieva, was Tsvetelina Stoycheva (-G), who arrived from Levski Spartak Sophia.

Toni 07 will play its first game in A1 league on October 11th against Beroe as a visitor.

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  GERMANY - Women  


Violets land Suska Berger - by Moritz Korff
Trinos Goettingen (DBBL) completed the signing of Suska Berger (185-F-85) only shortly prior to the start of the 2008-09 campaign. The 23-year-old Post Player, the younger sister of German international Corry Berger (192-F/C-82, college: USF), spent the past two years at DJK Koeln-Nord in the 2. Bundesliga North. She is a product of TV Bensberg and previously played for her hometeam in Germany's first league.
The Violets will take on Leipzig on gameday one. All games of the first round will be played in Marburg at the season opening-event.

*****************************************************
  ITALY - Women  


Standings A1 (W)
A1 Standings
 1. Vomero NA 0-0 
 2. Schio 0-0 
 3. Parma 0-0 
 4. Comense 0-0 
 5. Faenza 0-0 
 6. Taranto 0-0 
 7. Venezia 0-0 
 8. Priolo 0-0 
 9. Ribera 0-0 
 10. Viterbo 0-0 
 11. San Giovanni 0-0 
 12. Umbertide 0-0 
 13. Pozzuoli 0-0 
 14. Livorno 0-0 


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


Summitt has surgery to repair raccoon-caused shoulder injury - by Eurobasket News
Tennessee women's basketball coach Pat Summitt had offseason shoulder surgery on Thursday -- not because of a sports injury, but because of a tussle with a raccoon.

The winningest basketball coach in NCAA history has had problems with her right shoulder since dislocating it while chasing away a raccoon poised to attack her Labrador. The attack came near her home on March 5, just days before the Southeastern Conference tournament.

A month later, Summitt guided the Lady Vols to their eighth NCAA title.

In a news release, Tennessee announced that Dr. Edwin Spencer and Volunteers team orthopedists Dr. Russ Betcher and Dr. Greg Mathien had performed arthroscopic surgery on Summitt in Knoxville.

'Pat is doing well,' Tennessee associate athletic director Jenny Moshak said. 'She will begin rehabbing the shoulder in about a week.'

Team practice starts Oct.17; the first game of the season will be Nov. 15, at home against San Francisco.

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

Feisty Smith returns to bolster Hawkeyes - by Eurobasket News
There are few sports that emphasize measurements more than basketball. At every turn is a number -- shooting percentage, scoring average, height, won-loss record...and the list goes on and on.

University of Iowa point guard Kristi Smith (5'6''-G-87) is somewhat of an enigma. On one hand, her statistics define her as one of the best in the nation at her position. On the other hand, observers have a difficult time believing she stands a mere 5-foot-6 while watching her perform on the court. Some could argue that she plays at least a foot taller than her program-listed height, but according to her coach, there is no way to gauge Smith's determination and spirit.

'People are always amazed after they watch Kristi play and then see her walk to the press room after a game,' UI head coach Lisa Bluder said. 'It's amazing what she does on the floor. She's small in size, but you can't measure the size of somebody's heart.'

Still, numbers reinforce Smith's successes. During a 91-game career, she has averaged 11.4 points while shooting better than 83 percent from the free throw line and 40 percent from three-point range. Smith has averaged more than 100 assists per season.

'As a point guard I would say that a nice assist is the most rewarding because I'm involving my teammates and making other people feel good,' Smith said.

That mindset has made Smith popular with teammates and coaches. She was selected as one of three UI co-captains for 2008-09. Last season Smith was instrumental in leading the Hawkeyes to a share of the Big Ten regular-season championship with a 13-5 league record. Iowa finished 21-11 overall and advanced to its 17th appearance in the NCAA Tournament.

'We have to keep working hard,' Smith said. 'I want to improve where I left off last year. I don't think about individual awards so much during the season when I'm playing. I want to win and I want to get to the NCAA tournament again and hopefully get a Big Ten tournament championship as well as a conference championship. If everything goes well, the individual awards will come later.'

The honors came pouring in for Smith following her junior season when she averaged 13.3 points per game and set career-highs for points (425), field goals (143) and three-point field goals (53). Smith was named first team all-Big Ten by the coaches and second team all-Big Ten by the media. She was also an academic all-Big Ten selection and one of five players to be named WBCA Region 6 All-American, which made her honorable mention All-American as one of the top 52 players in the nation.

'Kristi was one of the top five players in the Big Ten,' Bluder said. 'Everyone recognized her value. We were a different team when she was not on the floor.'

Smith, who currently has a streak of 83 consecutive starts, scored in double figured 24 times last season, including 11 games in a row. She is 25th on the all-time Hawkeye scoring chart with 1,033 points -- just 18 behind teammate Megan Skouby and 85 ahead of teammate Wendy Ausdemore.

Iowa has won 52 games in the past three seasons and made two trips to the NCAA Tournament -- bowing out in the first round to Brigham Young in 2006 (67-62) and to Georgia in 2008 (67-61). The Hawkeyes graduated five players, but the return of seniors Smith, Ausdemore, Skouby, Lindsey Nyenhuis and Nicole VanderPol promises to keep Iowa in running for another exciting season that could extend well into the month of April.

'There definitely is a sense of urgency,' Smith said. 'It's my last season and I want to go out with a bang and help my team be the best it can be.'

Bluder knows that for the Hawkeyes to reach 20-plus victories for the fourth time in the last nine seasons, Smith has to expand her leadership role.

'Kristi is trying to embrace that role of a leader,' Bluder said. 'She's never been a very vocal person. Now she's a senior and a captain and she'll mentor to the freshmen.'

Smith can't contain her excitement when talking about the incoming rookie class that includes Hannah Draxten, Shante Jones, Kelly Krei, Tia Mays and Kamille Wahlin.

'We have five freshmen coming in, so we have to do our best to help them out and make them feel comfortable,' Smith said. 'The incoming freshmen are all really talented so we're pretty confident they'll help us out. The upperclassmen need to step up and be leaders.'

Smith started 21 games as a freshman, averaging 7.1 points and shooting 47.4 percent from the field. As a sophomore, she was named third team all-Big Ten by both the media and coaches after averaging a career-high 13.4 points per game with 124 assists, 108 made free throws and an 85.8 free throw percentage. Smith was named to the WBCA Classic all-tournament team when she combined to score 30 points with eight assists in victories against Missouri State and Kansas.

So far, the highlight of Smith's Hawkeye experience was combining basketball and travel on a trip to Greece from May 23 to June 2, 2007.

'Going to Greece was one of the best things I've ever done,' she said. 'I've been fortunate to have such great teammates and play with great people and I've developed a lot of good relationships. The coaches have been really awesome these past three years.'

Smith, a marketing and finance major, might wait awhile before entering the 'typical' work force. A strong senior season on the court could mean spending the next few years rubbing shoulders with former Iowa standouts Tangela Smith and Crystal Smith, who are both currently in the WNBA.

'If I have the opportunity to continue playing basketball, then I will look into it,' Smith said. 'If not, I wouldn't be upset just starting a career.'

Like all players, when the final horn sounds on Smith's career at Iowa, she would love to be remembered by the fans. It seems only fitting after all the moments she provided the black and gold masses to celebrate.

'I would like to be remembered as that spunky, feisty little point guard who loved the game of basketball and enjoyed every minute of it,' Smith said.

Courtesy of www.hawkeyesports.com

*****************************************************
  POLAND - Women  


Polish Euroleague Teams' hard work - by Maciej Schwarz
In the 2nd day of Polish Women Basketball League both Polish Euroleague teams had hard times. Wisla Krakow played against Gorzow and Lotos PKO BP against Torun, both at home. The former started very strong in defense, noting that Gorzow won against Lotos in the opener. It gave Wisla the advantage in the first half winning 40:31. During this time, Holdsclaw gave great performance shooting precisely from middle range. After the break, and especially in the 4th quarter Wisla team made couple of easy turnovers and and the end of time the score was 66:66. The overtime brought decent performance by Zohnova and Taylor and Gorzow won the game 70:77. It was second spectacular win for Gorzow, which competes in Eurocup. After the game coach Downar-Zapolski said that 'my team stopped playing, and thought that the game is already won. This was when Gorzow team grabbed their chance. I think that we still miss some practice together'.

Lotos PKO BP had the opportunity to show themselves to the home fans for the first time thi season. New team, with Jennifer Fleischer (only 2 days with the team), but without injured Matovic started the game against Torun very slowly. Away team was running consequently after good defence, and with very fast Sheena Moore Torun finished 1st quarter 19:26. After small break Winnicki changed the system against zone defense and won 2nd quarter 18:9. In the 3rd part score was on Torun side, even by 10, but in last minutes Lotos PKO BP grabbed the advantage and won the competition. Coach Winnicki said Im happy of winning but not from our style. Our game wisdom needs to be improved.

It seems that both euroleague teams need more time to use the best of their teams. The pre-season preparations were too short because of Olympics and Eurobasket Women qualifiers.


Polish Euroleague Teams' hard work - by Maciej Schwarz
In the 2nd day of Polish Women Basketball League both Polish Euroleague teams had hard times. TS Wisla Krakow played against AZS PWSZ Gorzow and Lotos PKO BP Gdynia against MMKS Energa Katarzynki Torun, both at home. The former started very strong in defense, noting that AZS PWSZ Gorzow won against Lotos in the opener. It gave Wisla the advantage in the first half winning 40:31. During this time, Chamique Holdsclaw (188-F-77, agency: Merit Sports, college: Tennessee) gave great performance shooting precisely from middle range. After the break, and especially in the 4th quarter Wisla team made couple of easy turnovers and at the end of time the score was 66:66. The overtime brought decent performance by Katerina Zohnova (179-F-84, agency: Promotex) and Lindsay Taylor (203-C-81, college: UCSB) and AZS PWSZ Gorzow won the game 70:77. It was second spectacular win for AZS PWSZ Gorzow, which competes in Eurocup. After the game coach Wojciech Downar-Zapolski said that 'my team stopped playing, and thought that the game is already won. This was when AZS PWSZ Gorzow team grabbed their chance. I think that we still miss some practice together'.

Lotos PKO BP Gdynia had the opportunity to show themselves to the home fans for the first time thi season. New team, with Jennifer Fleischer (195-C-84, agency: LBM Management, college: Pennsylvania) (only 2 days with the team), but without injured Ivana Matovic (197-C-83) started the game against MMKS Energa Katarzynki Torun very slowly. Away team was running consequently after good defence, and with very fast Sheena Moore MMKS Energa Katarzynki Torun finished 1st quarter 19:26. After small break Jacek Winnicki changed the system against zone defense and won 2nd quarter 18:9. In the 3rd part score was on MMKS Energa Katarzynki Torun side, even by 10, but in last minutes Lotos PKO BP Gdynia grabbed the advantage and won the competition 70:68. Coach Jacek Winnicki said Im happy of winning but not from our style. Our game wisdom needs to be improved.

It seems that both euroleague teams need more time to use the best of their teams. The pre-season preparations were too short because of Olympics and Eurobasket Women qualifiers.

*****************************************************
  PORTUGAL - Women  


Penicheiro out of the playoffs but goes to Italy - by Bruno Baltazar
Patricia Penicheiro (180-G-74, college: ODU) got defeated 2-1 in the wnba first round playoffs by the SA Silver Stars in a dramactic over time loss in the 3rd game.
Now she will have a another challange in Europe.
Penicheiro, 34, leaves Saturday for Milan, Italy, where she'll play for a team owned by fashion designer Giorgio Armani.

'I have to put myself on a strict budget,' said Penicheiro, a noted fashionista. 'It could be dangerous.'

*****************************************************
  ROMANIA - Women  


Standings - Women
D1 Standings
 1. Targoviste 0-0 
 2. Arad 0-0 
 3. Oradea 0-0 
 4. S.Studentesc 0-0 
 5. Olimpia 0-0 
 6. Cluj Napoca 0-0 
 7. Iasi 0-0 
 8. Rapid 0-0 
 9. Govora 0-0 
 10. Alexandria 0-0 
 11. Sf.Gheorghe 0-0 
 12. Satu Mare 0-0 
 13. Craiova 0-0 
 14. Alba Iulia 0-0 


*****************************************************
  SLOVAKIA - Women  


Extraliga is opened! - by Eurobasket News
Slovak Extraliga 2008/2009 is officially opened. Last night BSS Kosice and Slovan Bratislava were the first teams to bring joy in the country.
BSS Kosice celebrated the victory in the opener 83:55. The team started with a massive 27:13 to lead the game. The hosts were scored almost all the shots they made in the first period. In the second however the guests could stay even. They played better but had difficulties cutting the margin. Slovan Bratislava won the second stanza 15:14 that gave 41:28 at the halftime.
In the second half the hosts pushed the tempo and increased the lead. After 20;10 in the third and 22:17 in the last BSS Kosice celebrated 83:55 win. Nikola Kovalova (168-G-89) led all the winners with 18 points. Katarina Pindrochova (183-F-88) netted 17 and Dasa Krasnockova (181-F-85) scored 13. Hana Krizmova (170-F-85) ended up with 13 points for the guests. Talajkova added 9, while Katarina Krcmarova (172-F-84) and Michaela Parizkova (175-G-86) had 8 each.
The rest of the games from the Round 1 will be played on September 27th. The game between and Poprad and Roznava is scheduled for September 28th.

BSS Kosice - Slovan Bratislava 83:55 (27:13, 14:15, 20:10, 22:17)
BSS Kosice:Nikola Kovalova 18, Katarina Pindrochova 17, Dasa Krasnockova 13
Slovan Bratislava:Hana Krizmova 13, Talajkova 9, Katarina Krcmarova 8, Michaela Parizkova 8

MBK Ruzomberok continues with two WNBA players - by Eurobasket News
MBK Ruzomberok heads into the new season with few changes. The first one happened on the bench. Instead of Stanislav Onuska, Anton Panis is hired as a new head coach. Onuska is promoted to GM, what is the most important position in Ruzomberok. Lindsey Wilson (176-81) and center Regina Palusna (192-C-89) left the team during the summer. At the same time Ruzomberok agreed terms with Megan Duffy (170-G-84, agency: LBM Management, college: Notre Dame). She will miss opening of Extraliga due to WNBA play-off with her team New York Liberty. Ruzomberok also took care for signing of Adriana Gresnerova (179-F-86) from Kosice and Beata Simova (184-87) from UMB Banska Bystrica.

The latest acquisition of MBK Ruzomberok is American Tye'sha Fluker (196-C-84, college: Tennessee). 23-year old center played last season in Turkish team Mersin BSH Bld. For 25 games in TBBL she averaged 12.8 ppg and 7.3 rpg. Later he joined WNBA team Los Angeles Sparks but he was released in May. Very soon she agreed terms with Chicago Sky recording 2.7 ppg and 1.3 rpg in 26 games. In 2007 Fluker led ASPTT Aras to semifinals of French National Cup. In LFB she appeared 28 times with average digits 13.1 ppg, 6.8 rpg and 1.5 apg. At the same year she played 12 games for Seattle Storm adding 3.3 ppg and 1.6 rpg. She graduated at University of Tennessee in 2006.

*****************************************************
  UKRAINE - Women  


Ukrainian teams open Baltic League - by Eurobasket News
Dnipro, Tim-Scuf and Olimp-NAEK played their openers in BWBL season 2008-2009. Dnipro celebrated the win in Kaunas over Laisve, while Tim-Scuf beat Olimp-NAEK in Kiev.

Dnipro overcame Laisve in the opening game of Baltic league 83:54 in Kaunas. Ukrainian side started with 16:15 when the game looked tough for both teams. Later on the court was dominated only by one team. Dnipro. They won the second quarter 21:12 and improved to 37:27 at the halftime. In the third period Dnipro pushed to 28:17 and finished the game with 18:10 in the last. Olga Dubrovina (170-G-87, agency: Promotex) led the winners with 20 points, while Yahina netted 19. Kiseleva posted 15 points and made 14 rebounds, whilst Lyashkova added 11.

Tim-Scuf edged Olimp-NAEK 78:69 at home. It was a Ukrainian battle of the Baltic league and brought good feedback after the game. Tim-Scuf won all the quarters even though the game was interesting until the end of it. Shkarpela, Maznichenko and Dorogobuzova all led the way with 15 points. Oksana Buryak (176-G-79) and Alexandra Kurbatova (170-G-78) top-scored in defeat with 13, while Malynovska scored 12.

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


Candice Wiggins undergoes knee surgery - by Eurobasket News
The Minnesota Lynx announced today that guard Candice Wiggins (5'11''-G-87, college: Stanford) underwent arthroscopic surgery for a lateral meniscal tear in her right knee on Monday, Sept. 22, at the Stanford University Medical Center.

Wiggins has already begun the rehabilitation process from the surgery at Stanford while she is taking classes to finish her undergraduate degree in Communications. She is expected to be fully recovered when the Lynx start training camp for the 2009 season next May.

Selected with the third overall pick in the 2008 WNBA Draft, Wiggins sustained the injury to her right knee in the 2nd quarter of Minnesota's game against the Indiana Fever on Tuesday, Sept. 9, and missed the final two games of the season.

Wiggins missed a total of four games in her rookie season, which included the final two games before the Olympic Break after she suffered a lower back contusion during a game against the Indiana Fever in Indianapolis on July 24.

On the season, Wiggins ranked among the WNBA's top 20 in scoring (15th, 15.7 ppg), assists (20th, 3.0 apg), FT accuracy (20th, 81.7%) and steals (7th, 1.80 spg). Among rookies, she finished in the top three in seven of the league's nine major categories, including 2nd in scoring and 3rd in assists, and was named the Hanns-G 'Go Beyond' Rookie of the Month for June after tallying 18.6 ppg, 3.9 rpg and 3.4 apg in 11 contests.

The Minnesota Lynx have already begun their drive for the 2009 WNBA Championship. Season and group tickets for the 2009 season are on sale now by calling 612-673-8400 , e-mailing tickets@lynxbasketball.com or visiting www.lynxbasketball.com.

Courtesy of the Minnesota Lynx

Minnesotas Candice Wiggins Named Sixth Woman of the Year - by Bruno Baltazar
Minnesota Lynx guard Candice Wiggins (5'11''-G-87, college: Stanford) has been named the 2008 WNBA Sixth Woman of the Year. Wiggins received 27 votes from a national panel of sportswriters and broadcasters to earn the award. Detroit Shock forward Plenette Pierson, the inaugural Sixth Woman of the Year in 2007, finished second with 10 votes while Seattle Storm guard Tanisha Wright finished third with two votes.

Wiggins made an immediate impact on the Minnesota Lynx as a rookie, helping to push the team to a 5-0 start to the season with wins over 2007 WNBA Finalists Phoenix and Detroit. Despite missing the playoffs, she helped propel the Lynx to 16 wins, the second-best total in team history and a six-game improvement on 2007. Wiggins wrapped up the season second on the team in points (15.7 ppg) and assists (3.0 apg). Despite coming off the bench in all but one of her 30 games played, she placed behind only Seimone Augustus in minutes per game among Lynx players.

Her 15.7 points per game slotted her in the top 20 among league leaders and second among all rookies while setting the all-time WNBA record for scoring by a player off the bench (Chamique Holdsclaw, 15.0, 2006). Wiggins was the only player in the WNBA to come off the bench and score more than 12 points per game. Her scoring average also placed her In the team's 96-88 loss to Houston on July 17, Wiggins set her career-high in points with 27.

With seven 20-or-more-point efforts, Wiggins submitted the Lynx's top seven performances off the bench in franchise history, while also eclipsing Holdsclaw's league record (six, 2006) for 20-point games as a reserve. Paced by their standout rookie, the Lynx set the all-time WNBA record for average points by reserves (33.9 ppg), surpassing the 33.4-points-per-game mark Sacramento set in 2006.

Wiggins was honored with the Hanns-G 'Go Beyond' Rookie of the Month award for her performance in June. For the month, she averaged 18.6 points, 3.9 rebounds and 3.4 assists in 11 games.

A standout in her four years at Stanford, Wiggins was drafted No. 3 overall by the Lynx in the 2008 WNBA Draft, just days after leading the Cardinal to the NCAA Championship game. As a senior, she won the 2008 State Farm Wade Trophy as the national player of the year and was a four-time Kodak/WBCA All-America selection. She left Palo Alto, Calif. as the all-time leading scorer in both Stanford and Pac-10 history.

In honor of being named the Sixth Woman of the Year, Wiggins will receive $5,000 and a specially-designed trophy from Tiffany & Co.

Below are the results of the 2008 WNBA Sixth Woman of the Year voting:

2008 WNBA SIXTH WOMAN OF THE YEAR RESULTS
Votes Player Team
27 Candice Wiggins Minnesota Lynx
10 Plenette Pierson Detroit Shock
2 Tanisha Wright Seattle Storm
1 Kara Braxton Detroit Shock
1 Tiffany Jackson New York Liberty
1 Barbara Turner Connecticut Sun

Monarchs plan few changes - by Eurobasket News
Already busy working on next year, Monarchs general manager John Whisenant has few changes in mind for 2009.

'We hope they're all coming back,' he said of his 13 players. 'We were so close (to advancing in the playoffs). But we still need to get better.'

Unlike last year, the franchise faces few free-agent issues and may be set for several seasons.

The Monarchs have their core trio of Kara Lawson, Nicole Powell and Rebekkah Brunson all members of Sacramento's 2005 championship team under contract for 2009. They also hold exclusive rights to their four rookies, reserve guard Scholanda Robinson and forward Kim Smith.

Guard Chelsea Newton, who will undergo ankle surgery Friday to remove bone chips, is eligible to be a restricted free agent. Veterans DeMya Walker, Ticha Penicheiro and Adrian Williams-Strong are eligible for unrestricted free agency.

'I don't see Ticha or DeMya playing anywhere but Sacramento,' Whisenant said. 'Adrian's not sure if she's going to play another year. But she enjoys this team so much, she said she may be back.'

Williams-Strong, 31, plans to spend the offseason traveling with her husband, musician Buddy Strong.

Walker, who returned to action in August after breaking her right kneecap, will continue to rehabilitate her knee in Sacramento.

Under league rules, the Monarchs can't talk contract with their unsigned players until Dec. 15, and the earliest they could sign is January.

For next year's college draft, Whisenant still is hunting for more talent and willing to listen to trade offers.

'It's a business,' he added. 'I'll have to scout it out until January. I saw a lot of good juniors last year (in college). This may be almost as deep a draft as the last one. We've built our team through the draft without lottery picks.'

Most of the Monarchs have firmed up their plans.

Penicheiro, 34, leaves Saturday for Milan, Italy, where she'll play for a team owned by fashion designer Giorgio Armani.

'I have to put myself on a strict budget,' said Penicheiro, a noted fashionista. 'It could be dangerous.'

Also Italy-bound is Robinson, who will play in Naples. Brunson is expected back in Taranto in southern Italy but might have knee surgery first.

Rookie center Laura Harper and forward Powell are headed to Turkey. Rookie forward Crystal Kelly will spend the winter in Spain. Rookie guards A'Quonesia Franklin and Charel Allen are finalizing their overseas offers.

After a short vacation, Lawson will be back broadcasting basketball on ESPN and expects some Kings-related assignments, too.

'Hopefully, I'll know my schedule by the end of September,' she said.

Courtesy of http://www.sacbee.com