EUROBASKET NEWS REPORT - 9/8/2008

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Men News

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  ABA   


Kentucky Warriors schedule tryout camp in London, Kentucky - by Eurobasket News
The ABA Kentucky Warriors next tryout camp will be a one-day event, Saturday, September 20th at the First Baptist Church gym on West 5th Street in London, Kentucky. Tryouts will last from 2pm through 5pm. We will have some of the roster players there for workouts that day as well.

The fee is $25 and you can pre-register by calling 606 280 7818 (office) or any of the following cell phones (606 521 6810, 606 231 0264, 606 304 5247).

We have six roster players already signed. We are looking for six more players and we have a couple of players doing individual workouts that we expect to sign. There will probably be at least three roster positions up for grabs on September 20th at the tryouts. For more information email jimbo@kywarriors.com or visit www.kywarriors.com or www.abalive.com.

Courtesy of ABA

Texas City Rangers announce tryout camp - by Eurobasket News
The ABA Texas City Rangers will hold its first official tryout, 'Night Madness,' on Friday, September 19th from 6pm-10pm at THE GYM.

THE GYM is located in Humble, Texas at 2325 Atascocita Road, approximately 15 minutes north of Houston. This is an open tryout to all basketball players who believe that they have professional ability, but have yet to have had the opportunity to display their skills. This is your shot. No politics, just basketball! The tryout fee is $100. For more information, contact Markeith Brown at 979 236 1573, email markeithb@gmail.com. You can also visit www.texascityrangers.com or www.abalive.com.

Courtesy of ABA

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  AUSTRALIA   


Wildcats pumped up for new season - by Eurobasket News
Darnell Hinson (186-G-80, college: Northeastern St.) An off-season recruiting drive has sparked plenty of hype and excitement at Perth Wildcats HQ.

New faces have littered the Perry Lakes offices in an on and off-court capacity throughout the pre-season period.

And their impact on club morale was evident at Thursday mornings season launch.

New head coach Conner Henry said the preparation for the 2008/09 season had not been as good as it could have, with only six fit men for most of the pre-season campaign.

But he insisted the sides prospects looked good for when the real stuff starts.

Four times champions of Australia, the Wildcats are expected by many experts to have a serious crack at their first title since 2000.

'Were putting it all together', Henry said.

Weve only had this group all together for three training sessions, so we still have a lot of work to do.

But we like our line-up, I think were much better on paper. We know have to translate that onto the court.

Henry has added several stars to his roster, including guard Darnell Hinson, ex-Sydney star Isiah Victor, promising youngster Stephen Weigh and journeyman centre Ben Knight.

One thing the new recruits have certainly added is depth a team attribute that will come in handy during Round One, with skipper Paul Rogers not expected to pull up in time for the away clash with South Dragons on September 17.

Coach Henry is not optimistic about Rogers chances of playing in the opening game at Challenge Stadium but set his sights on bringing the captain back for the September 21 game at home to the Dragons.

'(Rogers) is still recovering from his minor knee operation from about three weeks ago', Henry said.

Hes just now back training at a lower level, not doing everything. But hes looked good and the knee hasnt blown up yet.

The luxury of having this type of line up right now is (that) everybody knows that theyve got to compete on a daily basis for spots. Nothing is guaranteed.

Henry does not believe anything is guaranteed in terms of ladder position either.

Despite high-profile Wildcats men, such as owner Jack Bendat, putting pressure on the side by publicly declaring their desire to be number one, Henry says there are plenty of teams to watch out for this year.

Theres five to six (who can win the championship), Henry said.

I think theres more parity now in the league. Cairns has loaded up and they have to be considered one of the favourites.

But you have to go through Melbourne to get the championship. The Tigers and coach (Brian) Goorjan moving over to the Dragons, the additions that hes made.

Youve got to win there during the season and then youre most likely going to have to go there and win during the play-offs too.

New Zealand is tough, were going to be tough, so theres five or six teams that are going to be real good.

While the squad has only been training together for a short period of time, team bonding should not be a problem with the squad heading down to Margaret River on Thursday afternoon to relax before the long season ahead.

The 2008/09 NBL season tips off in northern Queensland next weekend with Cairns taking on South Dragons, while the Wildcats open their campaign in Melbourne against South Dragons on the following Wednesday.

Courtesy of www.nbl.com.au

Melbourne upset Townsville in exhibition clash - by Eurobasket News
The Melbourne Tigers looked good and deservedly posted a 125:106 win over ambitious Townsville Crocodiles in the NBL preseason duel in Mackay. Chris Anstey (213-C-75) stepped up for the Tigers with 33 points and 7 rebounds. Ebi Ere (195-G/F-81, college: Oklahoma), who just joined the team, was helpful straight away with 25 points. Rod Grizzard showed some sparks of good form with 18 points in the win. Michael Cedar (195-G-86) answered with 25 points for the Crocs. Corey Williams (191-G-77, college: Alabama St.) knocked down 18 points and Rossell Ellis added 17 in defeat.
Townsville held to a minimal 31:30 lead after the starting period but the Tigers rebounded after the short intermission. They outscored their opponents for a 68:62 advantage at halftime. The Tigers extended the margin to 18 points after three quarters of the game and never looked back in the final stanza.
In the meanwhile the Sydney Spirit notched another impressive win over the visiting Japanese team Toyota Alvark. This time the Sydney were better 115:84 to take a 2-0 lead in the friendly series. Sydney jumped to a 16-point lead after just twelve minutes of the game. Sydney kept on mounting the pressure and only some pivotal performance from Takuma Watanabe (188-G-78) allowed the visitors to trail by 24 points at the sides change. Takuma Watanabe added 10 more points for Toyota Alvark in the third period but a sizzling game from Derrick Low (188-G-86) kept the Japanese team at bay. Sydney eased to the victory in the second half. Derrick Low finished the game with 24 points. Clint Reed (198-F-82, college: Co.Carolina) contributed 20 points, while Julian Khazzouh (209-C-86) added 19 points and 17 rebounds for the winners. Takuma Watanabe delivered game-high 26 points for the visitors.

South Dragons ink import Tremmell Darden - by Eurobasket News
South Dragons announced signing of Tremmell Darden (194-G/F-81, agency: Court Side, college: Niagara) on a one-year deal. Darden is the second import for the team of head coach Brian Goorjian. The player spent last 14 days on a try-out with South Dragons showing pretty good performance during the pre-season games. His averaged digits were 18 ppg and 7 rpg, what was more than enough for one-year contract.

Tremmell Darden played previous two seasons for Belgian team TEC Spirou Charleroi helping it to grab championship title this year. For 36 games in Belgian D1 he averaged 12.8 ppg, 3.6 rpg and 1.2 apg (season 07/08). Darden also had 10 appearances in ULEB Cup adding 14.1 ppg, 5.1 rpg, 1.5 apg and 1.1 spg. He arrived to Charleroi during the summer 2006 from another Belgian team Passe Partout Basket Groot Leuven. As a member of Leuven, Darden also had impressive digits which helped him to get a contract with one of the best Belgian teams over the past ten years - Charleroi. He graduated on Niagara University in 2004. In his senior season Darden averaged 18 ppg and 5.4 rpg. He spent some time with LA Clippers during the summer but he never got a chance to get into the NBA mix. After Niagara, Darden played one season in Turkish team Erdemir. It was his first season outside the USA and very good one. For 27 games in D1 he recorded 14.1 ppg and 7.9 rpg.

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  BARBADOS   


Unbeaten Clapham tops Under-21 standings - by Justin Marville
DESPITE INJURIES to star guards Stefan Yarde and Damian McClean, reigning Barbados Amateur Basketball Association Under-21 Tournament champs Clapham Bulls have maintained their unbeaten start to the 2008 season.

Now the league leaders are just one win away from securing their third successive play-off berth halfway through the regular season.

Bolstered by the off-season addition of centre Sean Parris, the defending champs have more than survived without the Tridents Premier League guards through their first five games, getting valuable contributions from improved role players Lorenzo Thorpe, Devon Cox and Andre Brathwaite.

Combining with regular starters Ramon Byer and Rahiim Gibbons, the three reserves played a huge part in Clapham's thrilling last-second victory over second-placed Lumber Company Lakers (4-1) in the season's marquee game.

But the Bulls' unblemished record doesn't tell their whole story, as the boys in orange have benefited from two forfeits while surviving a scare over the weekend from the less heralded Checker Hall Braves.

Relying on a Herculean 13 fourth-quarter points from Byer and some mental errors from the opposition down the stretch, Clapham had to overcome a four-point deficit in the game's final period before finally outlasting the underrated northern squad.

However, the Bulls expect the injured duo back in their line-up ahead of tomorrow's key encounter with the Colombian Emeralds International Senators (3-1), who currently lie in third after last week's upset defeat at the hands of City United.

Having not faced a team with a winning record, the highly-touted Senators might find themselves in an unexpected five-team battle for the post-season's final two spots if they drop their upcoming contests against the Bulls and Lakers.

But a roster with the combined experience of Andre Freeman, Nicholai Williams, Raphael Sealy and Dadrian Browne should be enough to see the Rockley-based side through to the final four.

Although not bolstered with the same level of talent, this year's cinderella team, the Braves, are also in the play-off hunt thanks to cohesion and team play.

Led by the seasoned trio of Chadd Greaves, Damian Bovell and Jamal Thompson, the Checker Hall squad enter the regular season's home stretch tied with the more vaunted Warriors, Cavaliers and City United on two wins.

However, if the St Lucy lads expect to remain in post-season contention they will need bigger contributions from their bench and a much greater mental resolve in the critical stretches.

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  BELARUS   


Grodno plays friendly, NT is ready for Romania - by Eurobasket News
Suduva Marjampoll overcame Grodno 93 from Belarus 81:61. Lithuanian side started with 19:12 to take the control of the game. The hosts increased to another 7 points after 24:17 in the second period. As a result the squads went to the lockers for 43:29. The third period became another success of the Lithuania team that dominated the court. Suduva produced 23:18 and looked too good for the opponent. With a 15:14 they closed the last period and the game itself. Mindaugas Kalvelis (205-C-80) led the winners with 18 points. Andrius Cizikas (196-G/F-88) posted 17, while Kieza Aurimos added 16 and Marius Runkauskas (189-G-86) had 12.
Meanwhile Belarus National team is ready for the first game in Division B that will start on September 10th. The team will host Romania in their opener. The latter started already the campaign. Aristides Koronides drained a go-ahead three-pointer with just over two minutes left in regualtion to propel Cyprus past Romania at the start of EuroBasket in Division B tournament in Group B. Aristides Koronides finished the game with 19 points to deliver a surprising result of the first day of the action. The hosts jumped to a 9:3 lead early in the game and seemed to cruise further on. But Cyprus went on a 14:4 rally to surge ahead late in the period. Virgil Stanescu capped the first term with two free throws but Romania still trailed 15:17. Anastasidias and Andreas Pilavas kept Cyprus ahead early in the second frame however a 10:3 run from the hosts allowed them to build a 36:29 advantage late in the quarter. Romania kept their opponents at distance in the third frame however Aristides Koronides and Michalis Kounounis denied the deficit at the end and the teams entered the fourth frame with Romania leading by just a single point 53:52. Five treys from Aristides Koronides literally shocked the hosts and Cyprus surged ahead once again 71:69 with 2 minutes left in the game. Bogdan Popescu had a chance to tie the scoreline but converted just one free throw and Cyprus celebrated an impressive and quite unexpected win at the end. Panagiotis Trisokkas and Alexis Liatsos knocked down 11 points each for the winners. Levente Szijarto and Bogdan Popescu responded with 15 points apiece for Romania. Catalin Burlacu nailed 13 points in defeat. Cyprus outrebounded their opponents 36:30 and sank 44% of field goals.

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  BOSNIA   


Borac Nektar hires Sports Director and new player - by Eurobasket News
Borac Netar Banja Luka returned its ex player Sasa Vuleta (206-F/C-71) but this time with totally different purpose. After almost 20 years as a professional player of big number of teams, Vuleta will take a position of Borac's Sports Director. He stared career in Servo Mihalj Zrenjanin and later he played 7 seasons for NAP Novi Sad. In 1997 for the first time he joined Borac Nektar. He spent four years in Borac after what he moved to French Besancon and later Vojvodina Novi Sad. In 2003 Sasa Vuleta once again arrived to Banja Luka, spending one season there. Later he played in Hungary, Austria and Proleter Naftagas Zrenjanin. He won Bosnian championship with Borac in 2000. In 1998 and 1999 Borac was champion of Srpska league.

At the same time Borac Nektar announced signing of young Milan Rodic (203-F/C-86), who played last two seasons in Slavija Istocno Sarajevo. 22-year old power forward spent some time on try out in Borac after what he got a contract. Two season before Slavija reached the final of Bosnian National Cup but Rodic didn't have a chance to spend so much time on the court. Last one was a way better for Rodic. At the end of the season he was named to play for Srpska Liga All-Star team against Serbian A league selected team.

Siroki Prima pivo won traditional tournament in Siroki Brijeg - by Eurobasket News
In the final of traditional tournament in Siroki Brijeg, the hosts Siroki Prima pivo outsmarts Cedevita 74-69. Croatian team entered into this game strongly taking total control on its opponent. Ramel Bradley (188-G-85) was on fire scoring 16 points in the first half. During the first 20 minutes Cedevita had advantage of 4-6 points almost the entire time. Situation on the court changed after the breather. Ivo Josipovic (205-F-75, agency: Court Side) once again shined for the hosts. Ivan Siriscevic (198-G/F-87) joined him at the beginning of the last frame draining four triples. It was enough for 67-58. After that moment Frano Colak (205-C-77, agency: Court Side) and Ramel Bradley responded with two 3-pointers for 67-64. The hosts were very concentrated from the free throw line at the very end. On the other side Cedevita tried to equalize with few attempts from behind the arc but unsuccessful. Ivan Siriscevic paced Siroki to victory scoring 20 points and grabbing 10 boards. Ivo Josipovic this time stopped on 10 points and 9 rebounds but he was named MVP of the tournament. Ramel Bradley scored fantastic 34 points while Frano Colak added 15 points and 10 rebounds for Cedevita.

In the battle for third place Zrinjski demolished Sibenik 91-63. Sibenik was pretty close until the middle of third frame when Zrinjski put into the fifth gear and totally smashed its rivals. Boris Dzidic (206-F/C-80, agency: Interperformances) was the best player for the winning team scoring 16 points including 8 rebounds. Zdravko Vuckovic (198-F-79) had two points less than him. Filip Vukicevic (202-F-88) netted 14 points for the loosing side.

Defeat for Sloboda Dita vs Radnicki Novi Sad, Grude beat Alkar - by Eurobasket News
Sloboda Dita played its first friendly game since the beginning of preparations for the upcoming season. Its first opponent was Serbian team Radnicki Novi Sad, which registered comfortably victory in Tuzla 86-101. First half was totally leveled. Actually Radnicki ended it with plus one 45-46. Crucial period of the game was third stanza when visitors made few consecutive jump shots for FG2 as well as from behind the arc setting the score on 70-84. Radnicki finished this game making 14 of 22 attempts for 3-pts, what is the main reason of this victory. Visitors also outrebounded Sloboda. Experienced Zlatko Bolic (195-G-74, agency: Beo Basket) had no mercy for the hosts draining 29 points. Andjelko Mandic (197-F-76) also showed nice performance scoring 10 points. Point guard Zlatko Jovanovic (181-G-84) proved he will be great reinforcement for Sloboda scoring 24 points. Miralem Halilovic (202-F-91) delivered 16 while Dalibor Persic (193-G-85) had 15 points.

The most pleasant surprise of the last season, beside Sloboda Dita, BC Grude outsmarts Croatian team Alkar in very interesting match 71-70. The game was player in Sinji at the Alkar's home court. The hosts had solid 54-47 before the last stanza and it seemed they will take this one easily but that didn't happen. Mostly owing to Lovro Gligora (197-G-82) and Josko Srzic (191-G-83), Grude made fantastic turn finishing last ten minutes 24-16. Lovro Gligora was the best scorer of the game with 21 points. Josko Srzic had 13 while Ivan Cular (204-F-81) stopped on 11 points. Nikola Gaurina (198-G-83) and Josip Djapo (202-F/C-78) netted 15 points each for Alkar.

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  BULGARIA   


Yambol agrees with Byron Sanders and Scott O'Gallagher - by Eurobasket News
For the first time ever Yambol will have two Americans in its roster. The team announced signings of center Byron Sanders (207-C-83, college: N.Carolina) and point guard Scott O'Gallagher (188-G, college: Portland St.).

Byron Sanders started last season in Swedish team Norkoping Dolphins while in Septembr he joined Queluz Sintra. He had 25 appearances in Portugal's Proliga averaging 14.1 ppg, 7.8 rpg and 1.3 apg. At the end of the season he was named 'Eurobasket.com All-Portuguese Proliga Honorable Mention -08'. Before these two teams, he spent half of the season in German Phoenix Hagen. He played 13 games in 2. Bundesliga recording 7.7 ppg and 5.8 rpg. He left the team in December 2006. Sanders graduated at North Carolina University in 2006. He played 31 games in NCAA1 in his senior season having 2.5 ppg and 2.4 rpg. North Carolina was NCAA champion in 2005 but Sanders didn't have a chance to spend so much time on the court. He supposes to be great reinforcement in Yambol's paint next season.

The other American Scott O'Gallagher just came out from Warner Pacific College, which competed in NAIA. He was the best player of the team in 07/08 averaging 23.9 ppg, 4.6 rpg and 3.6 apg. On season 06/07 he had even better digits. During the summer O'Gallagher had one workout with Portland but he was a far away of any serious offer from the Trail Blazers.

Sliven inks Tenev, Bencev and Ilcev, keeps two Americans - by Eurobasket News
Basketball club Sliven officially started preparations for the upcoming season. Sliven ended the last one on the bottom of A1 with score 2-16 thus it will compete in A2 on season 08/09.

During the summer Sliven agreed terms with Todor Tenev (204-C-83), Tzvetomir Benchev (186-G-79) and Andrean Ilchev (201-F-82).
Todor Tenev played last two seasons in Dunav 2007. At his last one Tenev averaged 3.9 ppg and 3.1 rpg for 15 games in A1. Before Dunav, he was a member of Spartak Evronis, CSKA Sophia, Slavia Sophia and Arsenal Kazanlak. He won Bulgarian National Cup in 2005 with CSKA.
Tzvetomir Benchev is coming from Balkan Botevgrad. Last season he played 22 games in A1 recording 2.9 ppg and 1.2 rpg. He joined Balkan in 2005 from Levski Sophia. With Lukoil Akademik he won two championship titles and three National Cups. He played for Bulgarian University National Team on World University Games in 2003.
Andrean Ilchev spent last season in RIlski Sportlis adding 5.2 ppg and 2.9 rpg for 26 games in A1. It was his second season with Rilski but interesting is that the first one was a way better. In 29 appearances in A1 he had 10 ppg and 4.3 rpg. Except of these two teams, Ilchev also played for Yambolgaz and Levski Sophia.

At the same time Sliven kept two Americans Jeremiah Boswell (194-G-82) and Lawrence Sharrett (188-G-76, college: King).

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  CANADA   


Wheelchair men edge Germany in opener at Paralympic Games - by Eurobasket News
BEIJING - The defending gold medalist Canadian Wheelchair Men's Basketball Team narrowly held off Germany 62-59 to win its first pool A preliminary game at the National Indoor Stadium on Sunday.

Canada and Germany swapped the lead seven times and were tied eight times, before centre David Eng of Montreal made the winning basket with 15 seconds to go. Germany missed a three-point attempt in the final seconds.

Patrick Anderson of Vancouver led the Canadians with 29 points, 12 rebounds and five assists. Eng scored 10 points.

Dirk Passiwan was Germany's high scorer with 11 while Dirk Kohler-Lenz had 10 points and 12 rebounds.

'I'm not very satisfied with the first three quarters,' Canadian captain Jaimie Borisoff of Vancouver said after the victory. 'Because it was the first game at these Paralympic Games, it had a high intensity level. After the adjustment we moved faster and got things under control.'

The Canadian men play South Africa on Monday (5:45 a.m. ET) while the Canadian women open their competition against the Netherlands (11:15 p.m. Sunday ET).

Courtesy of www.basketball.ca

Filipino-Canadian Dela Pena drafted by Philippines pro team - by Eurobasket News
TAGUIG, the Philippines - Filipino-Canadian shooting guard Kelvin Dela Pena has been drafted by the Alaska Aces (named for the team's milk company sponsor, not the U.S. state) of the professional Philippines Basketball Association (PBA).

The six-footer, who once played for Mount Royal College in Calgary, was taken by the Aces as the fifth pick in the second round of the PBA draft on Aug. 31. For three seasons, Dela Pena led the Mapua Institute of Technology Cardinals into the National Collegiate Athletics Association (NCAA-Philippines) Final Four. He was named the NCAA's most valuable player last season. His average digits were 15.7 points, 8.8 rebounds and a league-high 5.6 assists per game.

The Cardinals faced a do-or-die game this past Friday to decide whether they make the Final Four for a fourth straight season. Result of that game will be announced soon.

Courtesy of www.basketball.ca

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  COLOMBIA   


FEDERATION CUP 2006, DAY 2, MORE RESULTS - by Victor Garcia
Indervalle defeated again Patriotas - Proactiva 88 - 81 in Cali, Baker, Gouard and Teheran again leaded the winners in scoring, Patriotas had in Todd Henry its best man again.

Indervalle 88
Patriotas Proactiva 81

Edgar Moreno guided Norte de Santander to its first victory in the Federation Cup as visitor, defeating Ovni Alcaldia de Tenjo 97 - 71, Julio use all the power of his backcourt, Edgar Moreno scored 31 pts, Eleuterio Renteria added 22, and Jerry Echenique 18.

Ovni Alcaldia de Tenjo 71
Norte de Santander 97 - Edgar Moreno 31 pts

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  CROATIA   


Mario Kasun shines in Efes Pilsen, Svjetlost smashes Vukovar - by Eurobasket News
Mario Kasun (213-C-80) had another good game in Efes Pilsen. This team his team was better than Armani Jeans Milano 71-56 while Kasun was the best scorer in Efes with 15 points. Efes Pilsen grabbed this one mostly owing to well played third quarter. After 29-29, Turkish team put into the fifth gear setting the score on 53-37. After that, the rest of the game was just the formality.

A1 team Svjetlost Slavonski Brod trashed A2 team Vukovar in a friendly game 90-60. Difference in basketball level between these two teams was huge. It was clear from the very beginning. Svjetlost ended first stanza 18-13 while in the next one the team from Slavonski Brod totally smashed Vukovar. Igor Radosavljevic and Veljko Budimir (201-G/F-85, agency: Court Side) were on fire leading their team to 32-12 in the second frame. Vukovar had Tucakovic ready to compete against Svjetlost but it was not enough. Participant of A1 league finished 20-18 third and 20-17 last quarter for more than comfortable win at the end, 90-60. Igor Radosavljevic (174-G-90) and Veljko Budimir drained 18 points each and they were the best scorers for the winning side. Paolo Ticina (195-G-85) also was good with 10. Vukovar got 20 points from Tucakovic. Pusic also shined for the loosing side adding 15 points. The game was played at Vukovars home court.

Split agrees with Zoran Vrkic, Zadar outsmarts Azovmash in a friendly - by Eurobasket News
According to head coach of Sibenik Zoran Kalpic, small forward Zoran Vrkic (203-G/F-87) is already a new player of Croatian National Cup holder Split. Namely, the contract is not signed yet but it is expected to happen during the next few days as Split already agreed everything with the player. Zoran Vrkic spent previous two seasons in Sibenik. His last one was pretty good as he for 32 games in A1 averaged 16.3 ppg, 6 rpg, 1.7 apg and 1.2 spg. At the end of the season he got an invitation to join Croatian B National Team. Vrkic arrived to Sibenik in 2006 from Dubrovnik. In the past he also played for Matulji and Union Olimpija. Vrkic was a member of Croatian U16, U18 and U20 National Teams. Last summer he participated on U20 European Championship in Nova Gorica averaging 9.3 ppg and 3.9 rpg.

Current Croatian champion Zadar celebrated tight victory in a friendly game against Ukrainian Azovmash Mariupol 88-87. It is important to be mentioned that Zadar played this game without Gecevski, Johnson, Dixon and Ivanov, which will most probably be members of the stating five next season. Rok Stipcevic (189-G-86) was the best player of Zadar scoring 21 points. Hrvoje Peric (203-F-85), who few days ago joined Zadar from Split, also was good netting 20 points. These two teams will meet each other in another friendly game on Monday.

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  CYPRUS   


Pizza Express Primetel Apollon inks Sallivan - by Chris Mammides
The Limassol team, Pizza Express Primetel Apollon agreed financial terms with the Bermuda born with English Passport Sullivan Phillips (196-F-79, college: Columbia Union). Philips is already in the island and is training with the rest of the team. He played last seazon in the Czech Republic league with the team Pardubice where he had nearly 13ppg, 6rpg and 4apg in something less than 38 minutes per game. He can easily play in three positions (1,2,and 3) and previous to the Czech Republic he played in the Hungarian and English leagues.

Seastar Apoel adds another two American guards - by Eurobasket

Seastar Apoel Nicosia added another two American guards to their roster for upcoming season. they are 26-year old guard Darren Brooks (191-G-82, college: S.Illinois) and newcomer in pro basketball 22-years old Stefhon Hannah (185-G, agency: N.E.T., college: Missouri). Brooks played most recently at BG 74 Goettingen (Germany), where in 33 games averaged 13.7ppg, 4.3rpg and 1.7apg. Hannah just gradueted the college where he averaged in 20 games 14.7ppg and 5.3apg. It would be risky decision as he was suspended last year from the team for violation of team rules. But he may be still a perfect fir for pro basketball.



Transfer news - by Chris Mammides
Seaways Apoel Nicosia agreed financial terms with the ex Proteas EKA AEL player, Maxime Zianveni (198-F-79). The French player is the fifth new addition in the Nicosia team which is most definetely at the right track as all the players signed belong to a high calliber class. The French player had last seazon with AEL's jersey 11.4ppg, 3.9rpg, 2,7apg and 1.5spg. He is expected to join the team in a week's time.
Achilleas Kaimakliou agreed financial terms with the American experienced guard, Cory Bradford (191-G-78, college: Illinois). The American player has experiences from the French and Hungarian league while his strong point is the three point shooting.

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  D-LEAGUE   


Standings
D-League Standings
Central Division
 1. Dakota W. 29-21 
 2. Sioux Falls S. 28-22 
 3. Iowa E. 22-28 
 4. Ft.Wayne MA 17-33 
Southwest Division
 1. Austin T. 30-20 
 2. Colorado 14ers 29-21 
 3. Tulsa 66ers 26-24 
 4. Albuquerque T. 22-28 
 5. Rio Grande VV 21-29 
West Division
 1. Idaho S. 36-14 
 2. LA D-Fenders 32-18 
 3. Utah 24-26 
 4. Anaheim A. 23-27 
 5. Bakersfield J. 11-39 


Stats Leaders
D-League Stats Leaders
Points Per Game
1 Powell, Dakota 22.5
2 Banks, LosAng 21.7
3 Dickens, Color 19.2
4 Calloway, FtWay 19.0
5 Karl, LosAng 17.5
Rebounds Per Game
1 Benson, Dakota 12.1
2 Mahinmi, Austin 8.2
3 Lyde, Dakota 7.8
4 Hall, Tulsa 7.4
5 Violette, Idaho 7.1
Assists Per Game
1 Livingston, Idaho 10.5
2 Kruger, Utah 7.1
3 Horner, Iowa 6.3
4 Calloway, FtWayne 5.8
5 Bailey, SFalls 5.6
Steals Per Game
1 Hamilton, Utah 2.4
2 Thomas, Colorado 2.2
3 Bailey, SFalls 1.7
Blocks Per Game
1 Closs, Tulsa 2.8
2 Wallace, LosAng 2.1
3 McCoy, LosAng 2.1
2FGP
1 Mahinmi, Austin 61.5
2 N'Diaye, LosAng 60.3
3 Lang, Utah 56.5
3FGP
1 Brown, LosAng 42.7
2 Harrington, Tulsa 42.6
3 Karl, LosAng 41.1
Free Throws
1 Harris, Iowa 89.5
2 Livingston, Idaho 89.2
3 Kruger, Utah 88.5


*****************************************************
  FINLAND   


KORISLIIGA: Ville Makalainen moves to Kotka - by Rauno Hurmalainen
NT F Ville Makalainen (194-F-85, agency: Rasmussen Services) wants new challenges. After seven seasons on YMCA Lahti roster Makalainen has decided to change the town and scenery. The negotiations to play somewhere else in Europe didn't quite succeed, but KTP Basket (Kotka) made an offer, that interested Makalainen. The contract is model 2+1 years. There is still an option for the Player to negotiate and move abroad with the dead line on September 22nd. Last season Makalainen was the captain of YMCA Lahti averaging 13,6 ppg, 4,6 rpg and 2,9 apg in 32:22 mpg.

*****************************************************
  FRANCE   


Standings - N1
N1 Standings
 1. Chalons 1-0 
 2. Blois 1-0 
 3. Get Vosges 1-0 
 4. Angers 1-0 
 5. Fos Ouest 1-0 
 6. Lievin 1-0 
 7. Challans 1-0 
 8. Lille 1-0 
 9. Juvisy 1-0 
 10. Roche-la-Moliere 0-1 
 11. Boulogne 0-1 
 12. St Chamond 0-1 
 13. Prisse Macon 0-1 
 14. Bordeaux 0-1 
 15. Bayonne 0-1 
 16. Longwy 0-1 
 17. CFBB 0-1 
 18. Reims 0-1 


NM1: The 2008/2009 season is launched - by Chris Spiesser
First games and first impressions about the 18 NM1 squads. From Chalons' nice victory over Boulogne to Juvisy's first triumph at that level, a little overview of the whole new results.

Chalons 74-67 Boulogne
Rejected at -11 with seven minutes to go, the former ProB team was close to an inaugural home loss. But Ramseier (198-C-87 - 23pts 8/10) and M'Bodji (15pts, 4rbs, 3stl, 4ass) found the ressources to end the game on a 25-7. A bitter defeat for Boulogne that set something like a Guiness record of FT inaccuracy: 6/21!

GET Vosges 62-58 Reims
The other team from the Marne had not the same success than Chalons nevertheless the task was hard for Epinal. The well shaped vosgian team never managed to get rid of the remois but their defense seems once more a huge guarantee for this season. Reims was close with Marsh, Jalce and Christophe (40pts for this trio) but the GET had the final word thanks to its inside duo Webster (14pts) / Vasiljevic (16pts).

Blois 73-57 Longwy
The local supporters couldn't really thrill against Longwy, their team already leading by 10pts after 7 minutes. If the lorrains managed to stick back at minus 8 during the third QT, Blot and his partners quickly accelerated to set the final mark.

Angers 67-61 Bordeaux
The local confirmed their ambitions as each member of the starting five ended at 10 ranking points at least with a peak at 21 for Julien Lesieu (19pts, 10rbs). Angers' 43 rebounds denote a nice inside power but also Bordeaux's inaccuracy (20/62) that hindered the girondins in taking profit of the angevins' 20 turnovers.

Bayonne 71-75 Fos
The provencals suffered against the basqs but they had the final word in the last minutes with its backcourt power. Cisse (23pts, 4rbs, 5ass) and Draughan (22pts 3/5 3pts, 3rbs) set the pace for the visitors that managed to handle the basq inside sector illustrated by Seth Scott's 23pts and 8rbs.

St-Chamond 68-74 Lille
False start for the historic NM1 team of St-Chamond. The liguerians took the best start (21-15) with Diallo and Vivies who ended both at 15pts. But Lille aims high this year and strenghtened its defense with a good participation of Olivier Gouez, the new center (12pts). Enough to grab a nice win on the road while Payton, Defoe and Taccoen also scored in double figures.

Challans 94-72 Prisse
The NM1 newcomers responded Challans during the first half (45-41) but the local defense made the difference during the second act. Double satisfaction for coach Masse who can be proud of his boys' collective performance. They totalized 109 ranking points and integrated with success Mathieu Boutry (16pts 8/11, 11rbs, 3blk) and Sebastien Cherasse (13pts 5/8, 4rbs, 4stl, 3ass).

Lievin 70-69 Roche La Moliere
A tight game that the locals won in the final secs with two FTs by Adell (18pts), Roche missing the final basket. Despite Audet-Sow's activity (23pts, 4rbs), the greens and their uptempo game sufferred against Lievin's height. N'kembe posted 26 ranking points (9pts 4/4, 10rbs, 4blk) while Cilly added 15pts, everyone being wisely served by Jerome Dessart's 10assists.

CFBB 55-71 Juvisy
The NM1 newcomers didn't took long to find the rythm and outscore the CFBB 15-30 in the first QT. If the 2nd and especially the 3rd part (13-7) looked more difficult, the reds put a final touch to the win in the last act (12-17). Missengue and Tukemba compeled 32pts and 9rbs inside while the rafai brothers did the outside job with 22pts, 7rbs, 6stl, 5ass. For the CFBB only Westermann and Sane totalize more than 10 ranking points (11 each).

Pro A/B: Trading news - by Chris Spiesser
Robert Laslo left St-Etienne for personnal reasons. But the liguerians didn't wait long to find a replaceman. It will Eric Joldersma (195-F-77, college: Bethel (MN)) who leaves ProA and Gravelines after a complicated exercice: 3.3ppg, 2rpg, 1.1apg. Nevertheless, this signing looks like a real steal for a player who has a tremendous ProB references as an import player. The difference is that he will play for St-Etienne with a french pass!

In Orleans, Fred Adjiwanou is injured. Sidelined for 2 month, coach Herve is looking for a medical joker. This could be Thierry Rupert (200-F-77, agency: Octagon) that is tested those days. The former player from Pau had not signed for any team right now.

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


Kelvin Parker joins Bayern Muenchen - by Moritz Korff
FC Bayern Muenchen (2. Bundesliga Pro A) has made Kelvin Parker (183-G-82, agency: Rasmussen Services, college: NW Missouri St.) its new import signing for the point guard-spot. The 26-year-old American comes off a very productive season with the SOBA Dragons Rhoendorf. He wore the Rhoendorf jersey in 30 encounters of the 2. Bundesliga Pro A in this past season, averaging 15.3 points, 4.1 assists, 2.6 steals and 2.5 rebounds. Parker was voted to the 2007-08 Eurobasket.com All-German 2. Bundesliga Pro A All-Defensive Team.
The Bayern officials had decided to waive Gabriel Moore (185-G-85) recently. This loss has now been compensated by signing Parker.

TV Jahn Siegen signed two foreign pros - by Daniel Poerschke

TV Jahn Siegen of the Oberliga West will have two foreign pros on their roster for the 2008/09 season: Chris Clock (193-G) and Brenden Mettler (190-G-82). Clock comes from NCAA 2 school Notre Dame de Namur in California, where he averaged 14.9ppg in the PacWest Conference last year. He was named to the 1st Team All-Conference. The second newcomer is Brenden Mettler, a national team player from South Africa. With those two additions Siegen is the top favourite to win their Oberliga league and possibly move up to the 2. Regionalliga West.



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


News - by Kostas Papadopoulos
AEK seems to have finished with searching for its center for the following season, as Travon Bryant (206-F-83, college: Missouri) is rumoured to have orally agreed with coach Kostas Flevarakis. The player has significant experience at A1 Greek championship, having played for Iraklis, Kolossos Rhodes and Maroussi previously.
In other news, Panellinios played two friendly games in Italy against Virtus Bolognia. At the first one, the team from Kipseli won 75-65 while at the second one it lost 83-77 [Brad Newley (199-G-85) 12, Anthony Grundy (189-G-79, agency: Strategic Sports, college: N.Carolina St.) 17, Stevan Nadjfeji (202-F-79) 11].
Maroussi faced also twice Olimpia Larissas, and it won both times: 84-65 at the first game [Billy Keys (188-G-77, college: N.Mexico St.) 13, Konstantinos Haralabidis (189-G-76) 14] and 80-65 at the second one [Billy Keys 18, Dimitris Mavroeidis (208-C-85) 14 - Jamel Thomas (198-F/G-76, agency: Priority Sports, college: Providence) 13, Pantelis Papaioakim (206-C/F-75) 16].
At AEL, coach Vangelis Alexandris is not yet satisfied with Bruce Price (191-G-83) and his following appearances at the friendly games seem quite crucial for the player's future at Larisa.
At PAOK, and after Dejan Tomasevic (208-F/C-73, agency: Beo Basket) added its roster, coach Argiris Pedoulakis is not counting anymore at Demetrius Alexander (204-F/C-75, college: Alabama) and, since K'Zell Wesson (201-F/C-77, college: La Salle) is still in the injured list, he thinks of adding in the team's roster one of Britton Johnsen (208-F-79, agency: Priority Sports, college: Utah) (with experience at his ex-team, Panellinios), Chris Owens (204-F-79, agency: Pro One Sports, college: Texas) (previous experience at Panionios), Tim Pickett (193-G/F-81, agency: Interperformances, college: Florida St.), Oscar Yebra (200-F-74, agency: Court Side) or Kasib Powell (201-F-81, agency: Court Side, college: Texas Tech) (ex-player of PAOK).

PAOK inks Tomasevic - by Chris Mammides
Dejan Tomasevic (208-F/C-73) will continue his career in Greece! The veteran center agreed financial terms with PAOK Thessalonikis and Head Coach Pedoulakis for one year. Tomasevic who didn't want to leave from the Greek league as his children already started school and the distance between his home land (Serbia) and Thessaloniki is even closer than the one in Athens. Further more, the veteran player wants to proove to everybopdy that he still can play in such a high level as the Greek A1. It is most certain that the experience Serb will definetely help the Thessaloniki team, in both rebounding and the so called 'dirty job' as he is very good in both of them.

Kavala inks Billy Thomas - by Chris Mammides
Another great transfer from the newcomers in the A1 league, team of Kavala/Panorama. Coach Kostas Pilafidis and his coaching team were able to agree financial terms witht he experienced American guard Billy Thomas (195-G-75, college: Kansas). The 33 years old guard was very close to play in the Greek league last seazon with the team of Olympia Larissas but never actually played as he accepted firstly a contract from Colorado 14ers and then an amazing short contract from the NBA team Cleveland Cavaliers to help them for the play-offs seazon so he joined the NBA team. Billy will be arriving in Greece and more specifically in Kavala early next week.

Standings - A2
A2 Standings
 1. DASH Perist. 0-0 
 2. Dafni 0-0 
 3. Iraklis 0-0 
 4. Apollon 0-0 
 5. HSBC Pagrati 0-0 
 6. Ilysiakos 0-0 
 7. MENT 0-0 
 8. Near East 0-0 
 9. KAOD 0-0 
 10. Olimpias 0-0 
 11. ICBS 0-0 
 12. Keravnos Aigio 0-0 
 13. Xanthi 0-0 
 14. Rethimno 0-0 
 15. Ikaroi Serron 0-0 
 16. Ermis L. 0-0 
 17. Panerythrai. 0-0 
 18. Ionikos Lamias 0-0 


Standings - A1
A1 Standings
 1. PAO 0-0 
 2. Olympiak. 0-0 
 3. Aris 0-0 
 4. PAOK 0-0 
 5. Panionios 0-0 
 6. AEK 0-0 
 7. AEL 0-0 
 8. Panellinios 0-0 
 9. Marousi 0-0 
 10. Kolossos 0-0 
 11. Olimpia L. 0-0 
 12. Trikalla 0-0 
 13. Egaleo 0-0 
 14. Panorama 0-0 


Standings - B Division
B Standings
 1. Sporting 0-0 
 2. Komotini 0-0 
 3. Ikaros K. 0-0 
 4. Halkida 0-0 
 5. Amyntas 0-0 
 6. AIAS Evosmou 0-0 
 7. Doukas 0-0 
 8. OFI 0-0 
 9. Arkadikos 0-0 
 10. Lavrio 0-0 
 11. Periko-Arhelao 0-0 
 12. Apollon K. 0-0 
 13. Goumenissa 0-0 
 14. Anagennisi 0-0 
 15. Aiolos T. 0-0 
 16. A.O. Kiffisia 0-0 


*****************************************************
  GUYANA   


GABA BIENNIAL ELECTIONS HELD - by Joe Chapman
Sweeping changes to basketball in Georgetown
ROSE TAKES OVER AS PRESIDENT, CADOIGAN IS SECRETARY
THE fact is that there has been a complete shake-up in the administration of basketball in Georgetown. Trevor Rose, CEO of Facts and Roses Company and a member of the Courts Pacesetters basketball club has taken over as the new president of the Georgetown Amateur Basketball Association (GABA), following elections yesterday at the Cliff Anderson Sports Hall.
The majority of city clubs turned up namely Courts Pacesetter, Bounty Colts, Nets, Eagles, Demerara Panthers, Macabees, Pepsi Sonics, Legends and Beepat Scorpions.
The sweeping changes in the administrative structure of the game in the City means Rose takes over the biennial term as president from Chris Bowman who served two terms in that capacity.
It also brings to an end at least, the several run-ins Bowman had with the governing Guyana Amateur Basketball Federation, led by the president, Col. Godwin McPherson (retd).
Rose is not totally new to the administration of basketball having served in the positions of secretary and treasurer of Bounty Colts previously.
This complete shakeup now mirrors Rose as president, attorney-at-law James Bond as First vice-president, Second vice-president is Kelvin Simon of Bounty Colts, secretary Bobby Cadogan of Pacesetters, treasurer Joel Loncke of Pepsi Sonics and assistant secretary/treasurer is Vijay Panday of Beepats Scorpions.
Cadogan, in an invited comment, said the new body is prepared to deal with what is best for basketball in Georgetown.

ROYALS PIP PACESETTERS 61-59 IN OT OF FRIENDLY GAME - by Joe Chapman
ROYALS SCORE 61-59 OT WIN AGAINST PACESETTERS
Linden club Victory Valley Royals snapped the unbeaten run of city side Courts Pacesettes with a thrilling 63-59 over time win last Saturdaynight at the Mackenzie Sports Club hard court in Linden while in the under card Georgetown females won 34-31against a Linden Selections led by national player Nichola Jacobs, who left yesterday (Sunday) to take up basketball scholarship in Antigua.
Nichola Jacobs trip to Antigua was sponsored by Courts Furniture Store, which is the official sponsor of the Pacesetters club which she represented in local basketball.
Jacobs for her outstanding play in a tournament in Antigua last year was offered a two year scholarship at the Antigua and Barbuda Institute of Technology.
The win by the Royals was hinged on youth national Chris Williams who fired in six 3-pointers in the game for a game high 21 points as Orlando Glasgow netted 14 and Dwayne Roberts 12 for the winners. The game was tied at 50 at the end of regulation play before Royals won with a final score of 63-59
For Pacesetters, Stephan Gillis had 18 points and Royston Siland 10.
In the other game national player Natasha Alder spoiled Jacobs farewell game with 19 points as the city girls won 34-31 after being down at half time 13-15. Sonia Rodney was the top scorer for Linden with 11 points and Jacobs had eight in the losing effort

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


Bialek on tryout with Falco - by Tamas Deri

Polish forward Zbigniew Bialek (203-F-82, agency: AB Agency) just arrived to Szombathely and will be on a week-tryout with FALCO KC, after that the management can decide about keeping him for the season.

Bialek was member the U-18 and U-20 NT and one of the greatest talents. With the age of 22 he worked out for three months with the personal coaches of LA Lakers and was a draft candidate. In 2004-05 he played for Bree in Belgium but a bad injury did not allow him to finish the season and he even missed the next season. In 2006 he signed a multi-deal with Anwil in Poland, but the management decided not to keep him on the roster for the upcoming season, so Falco got a chance to take a look at him. Last season he played 20 games - missed some games in december and january because of injury - and averaged 6.5ppg, 2.7rpg, 2FGP: 48.4%, 3PT: 25.4%, FT: 76.0%. He had very good games in the ULEB Cup and put up 14.7ppg, 3.3rpg, 2.0spg in 3 games.



Sopron's roster is complete - by Tamas Deri
The management of the first division team in Sopron just published, that american player P.J. Couisnard (193-G/F-84) signed a one year contract with the club. The rookie from Wichita State can play on the positions 3 and 2 and was a key player of his team. In his senior season he averaged 13.4ppg, 5.5rpg, 2.2apg, 1.5spg, FGP: 42.0%, 3Pts: 33.6%, FT: 62.5% in 31 games. Couisnard seems to be a very great defender as he got voted three times in the All-Defensive Team (2006-08) of MVC.

Kornel David might sign back to TAU - by Balazs Radics
The best hungarian player of the last decade, Kornel David (207-F-71) (36) has been offered a contract by his former club, spannish champion TAU Ceramica. David had a forgetable last season with lots of small injuries at Gran Canaria, and has been thinking of retirement. Now reciving an offer from one of Europe's best team he can reconsider the situation as Dusko Ivanovic' side hasn t got much time to wait. Beforehand the hungarian PF spent 4 seasons with the bask team (2003-07), played in the NBA (Bulls, Pistons, Cavs, Raptors), the one and only hungarian still and also had very succesfull seasons with BC Zalgiris Kaunas and Strasbourg.

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


Team Italy preparing the last games - by Gianni Pascucci
As you all know yet, Italian National team felt to Serbia by 20 points, after falling down at -24 during the last quarter. The same day, Hungary defeated Bulgaria, and the classification of the Qualifying Round - Group A is now simply terrible, and totally unexpected, see down:
1. Serbia 4-1,
2. Bulgaria 3-2,
3. Finland 2-2,
4. Hungary 2-3,
5. Italy 1-4.
To be in the only Group made of five teams hasn' t been a luck, because the FIBA decided that the overall standings will be decided by the games/wins quotient. In consequence, the Azzurri are in desperate need of at least two wins to grab the third place that grants the Additional Round of 2009. Otherwise, they will fall in the hell of the Relegation Round, to avoid the 'B Division', a shame for a so historical and high rated team. The schedule is as follows: Sept. 10: Italy-Hungary, Sept. 13: Finland-Italy, Sept. 17: Italy-Bulgaria. Only two years ago, no one could have feared this kind of meetings, now, they could become an insurmountable wall, above all if the few veterans in the team won' t perform as usual, seeming panic-stricken, and the young players won' t show all the good things they're able to do, as it is happening in this dramatic summer.....

Last market news - by Gianni Pascucci
Sebastiani Basket Rieti announced that Donnell Harvey (203-C-80, agency: Octagon, college: Florida) isn' t anymore a member of the team's roster, due to disciplinary reasions. After parting ways with Tim Pickett (193-G/F-81, agency: Interperformances, college: Florida St.) some days ago, this team is now in look for a forward too... Finally, Shawn Kemp (209-F-69, college: Trinity Valley JC) joined Premiata Montegranaro, having also his first practice session yesterday, showing a very good shape. His effective landing shuts down all the 'sceptics', convinced he won' t have joined the team at all...

*****************************************************
  JORDAN   


Latest News - by Mohammed Malas

# Men National Team news:

The jordanian naturalized player Rasheim Wright (193-G-81, college: District of Col.) has arrived earlier today to join the trainings of Jordan National Team then Zain club, Wright is now fit after his long suffering from his lung....

The national team is having training sessions twice in Amman, Jordan a day before going to Qatar to participate in Qatar Internationl tournament which will begin on 11th of september....All those preperations are for both Stankovic & Arab Cup next month...

# TeamUnity Participates in Qatar International tournament:

Source: TeamUnity.org

For the second year the Jordanian agency TeamUnity was invited to participate with a team of their players in Qatar international tournament to be held in Doha Sept 11-14th. The team will play against Qatar national team Jordan NT, Philippines NT.

Leading the team will be Coach Daniel Panaggio, D-Fenders Lakers' team Head coach.

- Teamunity delegation:

#

NAME

POS

A

Gheith Najjar

GM

B

Mrs. Hend Abufare

M

C

Dan Panaggio

HC

D

RASHEED MUHAMMAD

AC

E

Bobby Rouse

AC

1

Chad Hendrick (197-G/F-79, college: Houston)

G

2

Alvin Sims (193-G/F-74, college: Louisville)

G

3

Edwin Tatum (193-G-81, college: Stephen F. Austin)

PG

4

Jeremy Law (196-G-82, college: Jacksonville St.)

PG

5

Darren Cooper (190-G-83, college: Portland)

G

6

Kareem Ward (196-G/F-83, college: W.Alabama)

G

7

Bryson McKenzie (209-C-83, college: N.Illinois)

C

8

Jon Bell (203-F, college: Bethany (CA))

C

9

Hondre Brewer (213-C-80, college: USF)

C

10

Lance Perique (203-G/F-83, college: Georgia St.)

F

11

Terry Bradley Flanagan (205-C-79, college: Bellevue)

PF

12

Shannon Chambers (201-F-81, college: Charleston)

F



Standings - Premier League
Premier League Standings
 1. Orthodox 0-0 
 2. Hussein Erbid 0-0 
 3. Al Riyadi 0-0 
 4. Zain 0-0 
 5. Arena 0-0 
 6. Al Aqaba 0-0 
 7. College SC 0-0 
 8. ASU 0-0 


Stats Leaders - Men
Excellent League Stats Leaders
Points Per Game
1- Pippen, Arena 21.9
2- Lutfi, Al Riyadi 21.3
3- Sous, Al Riyadi 19.2
4- Dies, Orthodox 17.7
5- Thrash, Abu Nsir 16.1
Rebounds Per Game
1- Thrash, Abu Nsir 16.1
2- Dies, Orthodox 14.8
3- Banks, Hussein 11.6
4- Mansour, Jalil 9.2
5- Moughrabi, Jalil 8.7
Assists Per Game
1- Daghlas, Fastlink 6.9
2- Naber, Orthodox 4.7
3- Sous, Riyadi 4.2
4- Najjar, Arena 3.3
5- Nsour, Wihdat 3.2
Steals Per Game
1- H.Khalili, Hussein 3.6
2- Zareeni, Abu Nseir 2.9
3- Naber, Orthodox 2.4
4- Pippen, Arena 2.3
5- Al Khas, Fastlink 2.2
Blocks Per Game
1- Banks, Hussein 1.9
2- Parada, Fastlink 1.6
3- Mansour, Jalil 1.3
4- Pippen, Arena 0.9
5- Collins, Orthodox 0.9
2FGP
1- Hodges, Arena 82%
2- Abdelraoof, Jalil 71%
3- Khadra, Orthodx 71%
4- Basheer, Fastlink 67%
5- Samara, Fastlink 67%
3FGP
1- Salameh, Wihdat 53%
2- Khashan, Riyadi 50%
3- Hodges, Arena 45%
4- Al Saqa, Fastlink 44%
5- Phillips, Wihdat 42%
Free Throws
1- Madi, Al Wihdat 90%
2- A.Adieh, Riyadi 80%
3- Btaineh, Abu Nsir 80%
4- Hunter, Fastlink 80%
5- Lutfi, Al Riyadi 79%
Ranking
1- Parada, Fastlink 34
2- Trash, Abu Nseir 34
3- Dies, Orthodox 33
4- Islam, Arena 28
5- Pippen, Arena 28


*****************************************************
  KOSOVO   


Standings - Superleague
SuperLeague Standings
 1. Sigal Prishtina 0-0 
 2. Peja 0-0 
 3. Bashkimi 0-0 
 4. Trepca Mitrov. 0-0 
 5. Drita 0-0 
 6. Kastrioti 0-0 
 7. Kosova V. 0-0 
 8. Bambi Mitr. 0-0 
 9. Coll.Eurosport 0-0 
 10. SHB 12 0-0 


Standings - A1
A1 Standings
 1. X Prishtina 0-0 
 2. Vellaznimi 0-0 
 3. Ylli 0-0 
 4. Llapi Podujeve 0-0 
 5. Skenderaj 0-0 
 6. Lypjan 0-0 
 7. Kline 0-0 
 8. Kacanik 0-0 
 9. Istogu 0-0 
 10. Drenas 0-0 
 11. Malisheva 0-0 
 12. PTK 0-0 
 13. Fushe 0-0 
 14. Vertikal 0-0 
 15. Gzimi 0-0 


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


LBL standings
LBL Standings
Division I
 1. Valmiera 0-0 
 2. Zemgale 0-0 
 3. Barons/LMT 0-0 
 4. BK Ventspils 0-0 
 5. Liep.Lauvas 0-0 
 6. Keizarmezs 0-0 
 7. Buki Gulbene 0-0 
 8. ASK Riga 0-0 
 9. VEF Riga 0-0 
Division II
 1. Zemgale/Juniors 0-0 
 2. Liepajas Papirs 0-0 
 3. Keizarmezs-2 0-0 
 4. Kandava 0-0 
 5. Saldus 0-0 
 6. Jurmala 0-0 
 7. Ventspils au. 0-0 
 8. Valmiera-2 0-0 
 9. Cesis/Remarks 0-0 
 10. RNS-D/Livani 0-0 
 11. LU/Ridzene 0-0 
 12. ASK/Juniors 0-0 


Stats Leaders
LBL Stats Leaders
Points Per Game
1 Ozols, Jurmala 21.2
2 Kanbergs, Vents. 19.5
3 Berkis, Zemgale 17.8
4 Delvers, Roja 17.5
5 Mizis, Ridzene 17.0
Rebounds Per Game
1 Stimac, Valmiera 11.3
2 Eglitis, Ridzene 8.8
3 Neilands, Roja 8.4
4 Rozitis, Juniors 7.9
5 Bucs, Vents. 7.8
Assists Per Game
1 Slesers, Livani 7.4
2 Buskevics, ASK 4.4
3 Olivero, Valmiera 4.2
4 Raiskums, Zemgale 4.1
5 Eglitis, Cesis 4.0
Steals Per Game
1 Slesers, Livani 3.3
2 Kanbergs, Ventspils 2.3
3 Millage, ASK 2.3
Blocks Per Game
1 J. Rozitis, Juniors2.6
2 D. Rozitis, Cesis 2.5
3 Zeidaks, Ridzene 1.3
2FGP
1 Berkis, Zemgale 68.0
2 Batista, Barons 65.0
3 Stimac, Valmiera 63.0
3FGP
1 Paulins, Cesis 62.0
2 Love, Ventspils 53.0
3 Vitols, Ventspils 51.0
Free Throws
1 Amolins, Valmiera 90.0
2 Rudzajs, Cesis 89.0
3 Mazutis, ASK 89.0


Standings - LBAL
LBAL Standings
 1. Talsi 0-0 
 2. VIA Riga 0-0 
 3. VEF Riga 0-0 
 4. Jurmala 2 0-0 
 5. Dartija 0-0 
 6. Variants 0-0 
 7. DU/Hansabanka 0-0 
 8. Olaine 0-0 
 9. 3.BJSS 0-0 
 10. Roja 0-0 
 11. Ogre/Sonora 0-0 
 12. ASK Kadeti 0-0 
 13. Kursa/MRU 0-0 
 14. Perkons 0-0 
 15. Ezerzeme 0-0 
 16. Maksis/LTI 0-0 
 17. Madona 0-0 
 18. DSN 0-0 
 19. I.O.S. 0-0 
 20. Ridzene 91 0-0 
 21. Ridzene M. 0-0 
 22. Salacgriva 0-0 
 23. Ridzene 89 0-0 
 24. LNSF 0-0 
 25. ASK Kadeti-2 0-0 
 26. Turiba 0-0 
 27. Saulkrasti 0-0 
 28. LU 0-0 
 29. Jekabpils 0-0 
 30. Preili 0-0 
 31. Baldone 0-0 


BK Ventspils leaves Mazovia Cup with one win - by Eurobasket News
BK Ventspils finishes Mazovia Cup Tournament in Warsaw. The team participated with SPEC Polonia Warszawa, Norrkoping Dolphins and Anwil Wloclawek.
As you know in the opener of the day the team lost to the hosts 70:74. SPEC Polonia Warsaw used 23:10 in the second period to seal the win in the opener.
In Day 2 Anwil Wloclawek overcame BK Ventspils 91:53. Latvia squad opened the game with 15:12 but could not take the hosts later in the game. Polish side produced 25:13 in the second quarter and 24:11 in the third. Moreover Anwil Wloclawek closed the game with an offensive 30:14 to seal the win.
In the last day of the tournament BK Ventspils overcame Norrkoping Dolphins 75:56. Latvian team won the only game in the tournament and left Swedish team winless. Tyrone Brazelton (180-G, college: W.Kentucky) led the winners with 20 points as BK Ventspils finished with 1-2 record. Carl Saks (197-G-89) poured in 13 points in defeat as Norrkoping Dolphins are 0-3.
Anwil Wloclawek became the winner of the tournament as in the last day the team beat SPEC Polonia Warsaw 69:58. The latter finished second as two Polish teams looked well at home.

Day 2
BK Ventspils - Anwil Wloclawek 53:91 (15:12, 13:25, 11:24, 14:30)
Anwil: Brkic 28, Miller 19, Ian Boylan (198-G/F-83, agency: Passing Lane, college: Cal.St. Northridge) 12, Woloszyn 8, Janiak 6, Modric 6, Henderson 5, Michalski 4, Koszarek 3, Gabinski 0
Ventspils: Janis Strelnieks (185-G-89) 13, Zakis 13, Jurevicius 8


Day 3
BK Ventspils - Norrkoping Dolphins 75:56
Vetnspils: Tyrone Brazelton 20
Norrkoping: Carl Saks 13

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  LEBANON   


Sagesse inks with Freije - by Mohammed Malas
After losing the hands of Coach 'Ghassan Sarkis' and Twins Tabet (NCAA players), Sagesse chose NBA Star Matt Freije (206-F-81, agency: Priority Sports, college: Vanderbilt) who has lebanese roots to join the team and lead him in the next season. Some players from different teams and clubs said that Matt will be in Sagesse at an average of 75% declaring that Sagesse will do the great thing getting Freije and Alpha Bangura (197-F/G-80, college: St.John's) to their roster.

Matt was 53rd drafted by Miami Heat in 2004, and as soon as realeased he got to the New Orleans Hornets. In 2006-2007 he played 14 games with Atlanta Hawks before being waived in December 2006 to clear a roster space for Slava Medvedenko.

Source: Lebanese basketball website

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  LITHUANIA   


Lithuanian teams continue their preparation for the upcoming season - by Eurobasket News
Lithuanian teams continue their preparation for the upcoming season. The teams that finished in the middle of the standings last year try to play as many games to give real challenge for the top squads.
Neptunas hosted Ukrainian Budivelnik and Dnipro. In the first game Dnipro celebrated 70:61 victory mostly due to the third period. Ukrainian squad opened the game with 20:18 and improved to 4 points at the halfitme. With a great 19:11 in the third Dnipro was managed to control the rest of the game. Neptunas however won the last period 16:13 to reduce to 9 points. Anderson led Ukrainian side with 13 points, while Grigori Khizhnyak (216-C-74) netted 12. Kozlov Daniil and Chigrinov followed them with 10 points apiece.
In the second game Neptunas beat Budivelnik 86:84. It was a tough game with the back-to-back baskets. Both sides stayed in front for the majority of the time and Neptunas won due to the last period.
Suduva Marjampoll overcame Grodno 93 from Belarus 81:61. Lithuanian side started with 19:12 to take the control of the game. The hosts increased to another 7 points after 24:17 in the second period. As a result the squads went to the lockers for 43:29. The third period became another success of the Lithuania team that dominated the court. Suduva produced 23:18 and looked too good for the opponent. With a 15:14 they closed the last period and the game itself. Mindaugas Kalvelis (205-C-80) led the winners with 18 points. Andrius Cizikas (196-G/F-88) posted 17, while Kieza Aurimos added 16 and Marius Runkauskas (189-G-86) had 12.

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  NBA   


Cavaliers Sign Darnell Jackson - by Bruno Baltazar

The Cleveland Cavaliers have signed forward Darnell Jackson (6'8''-F-85, college: Kansas) to a contract.


The Cavaliers acquired the rights to Jackson during the 2008 NBA Draft from the Miami Heat in exchange for the lower of the Cavaliers two second round picks in the 2009 NBA Draft. The 22-year-old, 6-foot-8, 250-pound forward averaged 11.2 points on .626 shooting and a team-high 6.7 rebounds in 40 games (35 starts) in 24.3 minutes per game his senior year at Kansas, playing a key role in the Jayhawks winning the 2008 NCAA Mens Basketball Championship.

Jackson played for the Cavaliers team during the NBA Summer League in Las Vegas. In five games (four starts) he averaged 5.8 points and 5.4 rebounds in 24.6 minutes per game. Darnell has showed us he is a young, smart, hard working player, said Ferry And we are excited to see his development continue now.



Raptors training camp in Ottawa - by Eurobasket News
The Toronto Raptors announced Friday that Head Coach Sam Mitchell and his team will conduct training camp at Carleton University in Ottawa, Ontario from September 30 October 4, and then back at Air Canada Centre from October 5-28. This will be the first time the team has held camp in the nations capital.

We are very excited to hold training camp in our nations capital, symbolizing our identity as Canadas team, said Bryan Colangelo, Raptors President and General Manager. Carleton University offers us state of the art facilities and a great working relationship with a highly successful basketball program.

The Raptors will conduct two-a-day practices at the Ravens Nest Gymnasium on the campus of Carleton University. All practice sessions will be closed to the public. A specific practice schedule with days, times and media availability will be released later.

The team will host an open intrasquad game Saturday, Oct. 4 at 1 p.m. at the Ravens Nest Gymnasium. Admission information will be available in the near future.

The Raptors Basketball Development Department, in conjunction with Carleton University Mens and Womens Basketball, will conduct three clinics for ages 10-14 at the Ravens Nest Gymnasium. A co-ed clinic Thursday, October 2 from 6-7:30 p.m. will be open to the general public. There will be no fee to register for the clinic, however a waiver must be completed and brought by the participant to the clinic. Registration for the co-ed clinic may be done online by going to the Carleton University web site, www.carleton.ca/athletics, and clicking on the Raptors logo.

The Raptors open the 2008 preseason Tuesday, October 7 at Cleveland and return home to play host to the New York Knicks the following evening at 7 p.m. at Air Canada Centre. The clubs 2008-09 regular season opener is Wednesday, October 29 at Philadelphia. The home opener is set for Friday, October 31 versus the Golden State Warriors.

Courtesy of Toronto Raptors

2008 Hall of Fame press conference - Quotes from class members - by Eurobasket News
Adrian Dantley-

'I'm very happy. This is a dream come true.'

On the 08' U.S. Olympic Gold:

'I'm glad the guys won the gold medal. Coach K really helped the guys. It seemed like they were together on the same page.'

'It's great. I know the guys feel good about themselves.'

On playing on the 76' Olympic team after the US lost in 72':

'For some reason they always talk about the 72' team even though we on it in 76'.'

'You don't really hear them talk about the 76' team that much.'

'We felt some pressure. We felt we had to beat Russia, but Russia lost in the semifinals.'

On playing for the Utah Jazz:

'Playing for Utah was great. I loved playing for Utah. Everybody treated me great.'

On his relationship with Kareem Abdul Jabar while playing for the Lakers:

'Kareem was an idol of mine when I was a young guy. I learned how to shoot a hook before I even met Kareem.'

'I had a great time with him. He's a very smart man, and I learned a lot from him.'

On losing in the Eastern Conference finals to the Boston Celtics while playing for Detroit Pistons:

'A whole lot of championships got away when I was in Detroit.'

On the era of basketball he played in:

'Those were the good ol' days.'

'I hear the players complain about how tired they are when they play games. I would like to see a lot of these guys get up at 5 o'clock, catch the 7 o'clock flight and play basketball.'

On being an underdog:

'What did they say at the dinner last night? Undersized scorer. I've been fighting that my whole life. I've always been the underdog.'

'Guys like Patrick Ewing, the Dream, they are supposed to be here. I'm not supposed to be here.'

'I got here despite the odds.'

'I didn't have the most talent in the world, but I don't think too many people worked harder than me.'

'I dominated every level I played on, but critics always had something to say.'


William Davidson- Unable to attend


Patrick Ewing -

'When I played against Hakeem (Olajuwon) I definitely wanted to be at my best, and I think he felt the same way when he played against me; he wanted to be at his best. Because we both know what each other brings to the table: intensity, energy, effort. We put out 110% to play against one another.'

'Pat (Riley) and I have a great relationship. Before it was a coach-player relationship, but know I think we've gotten to become very good friends. Pat is an outstanding coach. I cherished the four years that he coached me in New York.'

'When I look back at my career I fell that I had a great career, naturally I'm disappointed that I didn't when a ring, but I don't think that defines me. I think my whole body of work, from grade school to high school to college to the Olympics to the NBA. I think that if you look at my whole body of work I consider myself a winner. There are a lot of people who have won who really haven't been winners and there have been people who are winners and haven't won, and I think I'm one of them.'

About Pat Riley

'I enjoyed him, I enjoyed playing for him I thought he brought stability to a franchise that needed it. When he left I was sorry to see him go. We all know that it's a business, and all I could do at the time was wish him the best.'

'In grade school, never in my wildest dreams did I think I would possibly wind up being here, and now I am.'

'I came to this country, and I didn't even know what basketball was. I was on the play ground, and I saw a gentleman named Richard Burton, who is now a very dear friend of mine, he's one of my best friends. He and these guys were out there playing and they asked me to join. I told them I didn't know how to play, but they just needed another body. I played, I liked it and I just kept on playing. When I started out I wasn't very good. I was tall, but uncoordinated... every year I would get better and better, and even when I started getting better and even in high school I never thought I'd make it to the NBA. I never really thought about it until college.'

'When I started I loved the game. I loved it from the first time I played it and I still have a love for the game. I just kept on playing it, even when I wasn't good, even when people laughed at me and told me I stunk or berated me. I was playing this game because I loved it, not for the joy of anyone else.'

'The day I took the day off was the day I retired.'

'That was my first NCAA tournament, it was great. It was a wonderful tournament. We came out west... we had some marvelous runs, we played Wyoming, kicked their butts, played Fresno state, kicked their butts, kicked everyone's butts on our way to the final four.'

'I cherish the four years that Riley coached me in New York.'

'I'm disappointed that I didn't win a ring but when I look at the whole body of work [of my career] I feel like a winner.'

'Not winning a championship I don't think defines my career...we still had great careers.'

'I went to the Hall of Fame when I was younger and never thought in my wildest dreams I'd be [a part of it], now I am.'

'Early on, I wanted to be like Dr. J.'

'My parents always taught me 'if you're going to do something, do it 100 percent' and that's how I played basketball.'

'On the Dream Team we had a great time, we were like rockstars.'

'Hopefully the new Ewing (son) will have a long and successful basketball career. He knows what it takes to be a great player.'

'When Hakeem and I played against each other, I wanted to be my best and he wanted to be his best. We had some wars, [which put on] great shows for the fans.'

'Riley's an innovator and a great man.'

About phone call informing he was chosen for induction- 'It was a big sigh of relief...it was a great call...it was a great day.'

'My four years at Georgetown were the best of my life. I came to college a boy and left a man.'

'The Big East launched ESPN.'


Hakeem Olajuwon- coming soon


Pat Riley -

On what he is going to say during his induction speech 'Believe me I have thought about it for months. I have written a lot of things and a lot of names, but there is no way that you can thank everybody. At the event they will all be there and I hope everybody understands that, but I will thank them at the party. I'm just really thankful to be on this journey. I happened to be inducted and enshrined in the Hall of Fame, but it's not about me. It's about all the other people who have been along on this ride.'

On his home town of Schenectady, N.Y 'All the people that are coming have shared something great with either myself or my family. I grew up with them and developed with them. They will all bust my chops at the party after, but I love them dearly. Schenectady N.Y is where it's all about.'

On his presenters for his speech-Magic Johnson and Jerry West

'I had to double up, the logo and the smile. Both of them decided to be great players so there is no doubt that both of them have had a major impact on my career. I go back to 1970 to when Jerry and I were teammates. I was there the night he told me it was over with and that he would retire.'

On his most influential coaches

'Sixteen coaches I've had in the passed. My father being one of them, because he was a minor league manager for 20 years. Walt Przybylo and Adolf Rupp were the two most influential. Walt Przybylo was my high school coach and he set my attitude right. Adolf Rupp created a player that could play and the work ethic.'

On the moment of being inducted into the Hall of Fame

'We've all talked about it. I think the phone call is where it hits you. I remember it was April 3rd and it was 10 minutes to 12. We had played the New Orleans the night before. The phone rang and it was John. I picked it up and he was expecting Karen (secretary). He didn't know what to say. I think at that moment is when it really hit home. I got the call that I was in and ever since the last four months have been hectic.'

On the top players that he coached over his career

'Well Magic, Wade, Worthy, I'll move from center to power forward. Zo goes to power forward. Kareem, Shaquille, and Patrick and that's as far as I'm going to go. Don't put me in that position. I would need a seven man rotation there. I would say that's a pretty formidable lineup of players to just to go through your career with. I've had the best of the best. I am the most blessed person hear and I mean that. I started my career with Magic and Kareem. Then I went to New York and had Pat (Ewing). I went to Miami and Zo showed up. Every place I went there was greatness there.'

On the Los Angeles Lakers

'I spent 20 years in Los Angeles. Probably one day I'll end up back in L.A. That was a special team to me. They are such a special team. If you ever wanted to see why, all you had to do is spend 15 minutes last night with them when they came back together. They know that they were all part of a special team. Magic, Norm Nixon, Byron Scott, James Worthy, Kareem, and Michael Thompson. For that decade, Jerry West kept giving me the best players. I never once told him to get rid of some guy or to get me someone else. He kept supplying the team with great talent. He did the same thing when he rebuilt the team in the '90's.'

On what he will send to the Hall of Fame

'I sent them some stuff. I sent my Laker uniform when I was a player. I sent them the suit that I wore in Dallas on June 20, 2006. A navy blue suit with the same tie and same shirt. I sent them a lot of memorabilia that is valuable to me. I sent some cards and practice plans and stuff like that. Then I gave them my championship ring from 2006. I had eight of them so I couldn't get enough of them.'

On the best moment of his career

'When Jerry West called me on the phone. I was the assistant coach in L.A and he got me on the phone and told me I was in tonight. I said what you mean I'm in. He told me I was going to be the head coach of the Los Angeles Lakers. I said do you think I'm ready for this, because I hadn't really coached anything. He said I'd be fine and to just throw the ball to Kareem and let Magic run the show. He said for the first couple of weeks I should let them run things so I could get my feet wet. Jerry told me that he would come down to the bench for the first couple of week so I would feel comfortable. I got into the head coaching thing immediately.'

On his four years in New York

'It was intense, competitive, and absolutely exhilarating. If I had to do it all over again I would have lived right in Manhattan. It was like an 82 game road trip for me living in Connecticut. It was an incredible experience for me. New York is an incredible city with great respect and we almost got one.'

On coaching in Madison Square Garden

'I've been to all the arenas and when its right there isn't any place better. We had a great four years. I think the fans and the media loved the players we had when I was coaching there.'


Cathy Rush-

'I never did dream it, but it certainly is a dream come-true.'

'I'm certainly not a star, but I feel like one. I'm treated royally and that has been fabulous. I'm honored and humbled all at the same time.'

On Women's basketball

'I think all of us hoped that at some point the game would reach great heights. I don't think anyone thought it would happen so quickly. If you look at the development of men's basketball, the hook shot and all of the other crazy things that men did. Women have gone through the same transition in a condensed period of time.'

'I still look at all of these young women as my children. At the time I was coaching, I was about 24 and they were 20. Part of my speech tonight is Mary Ann Stanley (former player) was the youngest woman to ever win a national championship at 24. She was actually three months younger than I was when I won the national championship.'

'I was a tomboy. You've heard that term in the past, but you haven't really heard it recently. I think girls that want to play sports are encouraged by their moms and certainly their dads now. To me, that is the most encouraging sign in society that young women can aspire to great things and be encouraged and brought to greater heights.'

'I was really fortunate at Immaculata College because most my players came out of the Catholic League in Philadelphia. These kids were prepared for all of the challenges of Immaculata. I was amazed by how good they were because I wasn't expecting that.'

'I think Immaculata has been underrepresented in the Hall of Fame.'

'We all came together with no idea that we could dream this big.'

'I always say that Immaculata is the only school that Title IX adversely affected. We were an all girls school. All of a sudden Immaculata was losing players to Penn State, Connecticut, St, Joes, Villanova. On the opposite end, in society people are now encouraged to have their daughters play and that is the best thing that came out of it.'

On Coaching

'I considered it a couple of times. Ed (husband) and I had started a girl's basketball camp that went from one week of 45 players to about four years later eight weeks of 3000. We had an accountant, and all of a sudden our accountant said this could be a business. I always said I'm the grandmother of woman's basketball because I have all of these wonderful players for a week, and then I get to send them home for the next 51.'

'Families now encourage their children to go to games and that never happened in the early years.'

'I'm so proud of what Immaculata accomplished because we set ourselves as the examples that you can do this. When I grew playing and coaching basketball, I don't think women had a chance to dream big. Now there is a national tournament and a hall of fame for women. Moms and dads can encourage their girls to play and set their sights as high as they can.'


Dick Vitale-

'Nobody gets to this level (HOF) without a team supporting them. Starting with my wife, my daughters, my brother my sister. And I would give anything for my mom and dad to be living because they were my greatest inspiration - factory workers who taught me so much about the blue collar fabric of what our nation is all about. It's about work ethic, about passion, about pride. Those last two words mean so much to me - there's a passion for what I do and I take pride in what I do.'

'I have a very simple formula that I've utilized in my life - passion, plus work ethic, plus good decision making in your personal life, usually means 'W' - Win - in the game of life. And that's the game we all play. When all the numbers are put away, all the stats, your play the game of life.'

'And I've been blessed because I've been surrounded by hall-of-famers all my life. My mother and father are hall-of-famers, my wife is a hall-of-famer, my daughters - they are hall-of-famers. This event and tonight's tribute to me belongs to them as much as it does to me.'

'On December 5, I'll be very honest, I thought my career was over. The doctor said to me, 'Dick, I've got to be honest with you. You've got ulcerated lesions on your vocal chords, and there could be cancer. I will not know until we do surgery, but we have to do surgery quickly.''

'I never thought I would be behind a mic again. And on February sixth, when I walked into the arena, North Carolina and Duke, and to hear those students chanting my name, it just brought me to tears.' (Starts to fight back tears)

'I'm in because of my enthusiasm and spirit. There's nothing that has overwhelmed me like this. My selection is subjective. Those people have numbers, they don't like, it's automatic. But for me, whenever you're a contributor, it's a subjective feeling and I understand that.'

'I got a message, and I'm going to paraphrase is, 'Brother, we weren't together for very long with the Pistons, but we will be united now, forever, in the most exclusive club you could ever be in. Your buddy, Bob Leineer.' Well that made me laugh, it made me shed a tear.'

'I think of this club, are you kidding me? Dick Vitale, a kid growing up, teaching the 6th grade in 1970, in a club with Bob Cousy and John Wooden and Red Auerbach and Magic Johnson - I get choked up thinking about it.'

'When I do a game I try to make it fun, try to educate about the technical aspects of the game. But you can't forget it's television, it's supposed to be entertainment, and that's what I try to do.'

'You tell Ricky Harris (UMass Basketball, Jr. Guard) to get in line because there are a lot of people who want my job - it's stealing money.'

'Pat Riley is a master communicator. He treats people with respect, he treats people with dignity, and I think the players respond to that.'

'I think I represent a lot of people out there who have ever dreamed this - a lot of kids out there, if it could happen to me...'

'In 1970, I'm teaching the 6th grade. In 1978, I'm coaching in the NBA. In a matter of seven and a half years I went from 6th grade teacher, high school coach, college assistant coach, college head coach to NBA coach. And then all of a sudden, boom, November 8 1979, I get fired and I don't know where I'm going. And then here comes this network, ESPN... Thirty years later I'm still on TV and it blows my mind.'

Asked if he would have made the Hall as a coach... 'I would have been dead by 50, I really mean that. I couldn't handle losing. Losing has torn my insides to shreds. In the NBA, I lost more in a week then I lost in college in a whole year and it was tough to deal with.'

'I'm really sorry I didn't live up to what Bill Davidson expected. I didn't get the job done. That's the one emptiness on my resume. My resume has been filled with so many positive things... and I think sometimes in life you need a little failure to motivate you, to inspire you, to bounce back. That's what life is. Life doesn't go in a smooth path, so I bounced back and I'm very proud of that. I didn't allow that to eat me alive to where my life and career ended. Some people just don't rally from adversity.'

'I love Detroit, it's my kind of people - blue collar people, great work ethic. We had a great time living there, my wife and I for a number of years. At the University of Detroit, it was unbelievable. In fact, their admiration and their support was the reason I got the Pistons job.'

'Ewing and Olajuwan and those people belong in. They're absolutely superstars whose numbers don't lie. Riley has five NBA titles, you can't deny that. But a guy like myself, you can say 'you know, I don't think he belongs.' And I respect that, I really do.'

Courtesy of www.hoophall.com

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  NCAA1   


UTEP legend Haskins dies - by Kevin Cochran

Don Haskins , one of the greatest coaches in college basketball history, passed away on Sunday. He was 78.

Haskins died at his home, surrounded by friends and family, at 4:30 p.m. MDT. A public memorial is tentatively planned for later in the week, with arrangements pending.
'It is a very sad time for all of us,' UTEP Director of Athletics Bob Stull said. 'Don is an icon of El Paso. He has had a huge impact on the city and the University of Texas at El Paso. Since his retirement, he has remained very interested in our entire athletic program and supportive of all of our coaches. He has been an invaluable resource to everybody in the athletic department. He remains one of the most revered and honored coaches in basketball history. His decision to start five black players in the 1966 national championship game, as chronicled in the movie Glory Road, changed college basketball and the sports world. He will always be remembered for that.'

'My thoughts and prayers go out to Mary and the Haskins family,' UTEP coach Tony Barbee said. 'We are losing a national treasure. I am very fortunate to have had the opportunity to get to know him over the last two years. The information he shared with me was invaluable to a first-time head coach. He is a Hall of Fame coach and a Hall of Fame person. It's sad to think that we're losing someone so special to this community and this university, and a national hero at the same time.'

Haskins, who was nicknamed 'The Bear,' was the head coach at UTEP from 1961-99, leading the Miners to 719 wins, as well as a national title (1966), 14 NCAA Tournament appearances and seven Western Athletic Conference championships.

CBS Sportsline.com named him the greatest Division I men's basketball coach of all time in July, 2001. 'UTEP -- with no recruiting base, no media attention and substandard budgets -- had no business winning much of anything,' said sports columnist Dan Wetzel. 'No coach did more with less, maximized his talent and made strange parts fit better than The Bear.'

Haskins, who announced his retirement on Aug. 24, 1999, ranks 19th among all-time Division I men's basketball head coaches with 719 victories.

He was born on March 14, 1930 in Enid, Okla. He played his college ball at Oklahoma A&M (now Oklahoma State) from 1949-52, where he was a second team All-Conference selection as a senior. Haskins split time at the guard and forward positions as a collegian, leading Oklahoma A&M to the NCAA semifinals in 1949 and 1951.

Haskins' coaching career began at Benjamin High School in Benjamin, Texas in 1955. He was a teacher and coach of both boys and girls teams at Benjamin High from 1955-56. Haskins also headed the basketball programs at Hedley (Texas) High School from 1956-60 and Dumas (Texas) High School from 1960 -61.

Haskins took over the UTEP program for the 1961-62 season. His first Miner squad notched an 18-6 record. His second UTEP team posted a 19-7 mark during the 1962-63 campaign and made the first of Haskins' 14 NCAA Tournament appearances.

The Miners captured the NCAA title on March 19, 1966, shocking heavily-favored Kentucky, 72-65, for the championship. That year Haskins became the first coach ever to start a lineup of five black players at the major college level. The achievement was documented in the 2006 motion picture Glory Road.

Haskins' teams captured WAC championships in 1970, 1983, 1984, 1985, 1986, 1987 and 1992, and advanced to the NCAA Tournament in 1963, 1964, 1966, 1967, 1970, 1975, 1984, 1985, 1986, 1987, 1988, 1989, 1990 and 1992.

Haskins has tutored numerous players who have gone on to play in the NBA, including Antonio Davis, Tim Hardaway and Jim Barnes, the first pick by New York in the 1964 NBA Draft.

Haskins' last Miner team notched a 16-12 record during the 1998-99 season, his 32nd winning season in 38 years as head coach.

Haskins was inducted into the Naismith Memorial Basketball Hall of Fame on Sept. 29, 1997, and the Jim Thorpe Association Oklahoma Sports Hall of Fame on Aug. 9, 1999 in Oklahoma City.

He is survived by his wife, Mary; three sons - Brent, David and Steve; and three grandsons. A fourth son, Mark, passed away in 1994.


Courtesy: UTEP athletics



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  NCAA2   


TV Jahn Siegen signed two foreign pros - by Daniel Poerschke

TV Jahn Siegen of the Oberliga West will have two foreign pros on their roster for the 2008/09 season: Chris Clock (193-G) and Brenden Mettler (190-G-82). Clock comes from NCAA 2 school Notre Dame de Namur in California, where he averaged 14.9ppg in the PacWest Conference last year. He was named to the 1st Team All-Conference. The second newcomer is Brenden Mettler, a national team player from South Africa. With those two additions Siegen is the top favourite to win their Oberliga league and possibly move up to the 2. Regionalliga West.



NSU coach Don Meyer injured in 5-vehicle crash - by Eurobasket News
Northern State University's head basketball coach Don Meyer was injured in a northeast South Dakota accident that involved five vehicles.

The Highway Patrol says it happened late Friday afternoon on Highway 20 near Chelsea when Coach Don Meyer crossed the center line and collided with an oncoming semi.

That truck then struck two other cars. A fifth vehicle entered the ditch to avoid the accident.

Meyer was the only person injured in the accident. The 63-year-old was taken to a Sioux Falls hospital with injuries that are not life threatening.

Meyer's 891 victories put him just nine shy of Bobby Knight on the NCAA list for most career wins.

Courtesy of www.kotatv.com

*****************************************************
  NIGERIA   


Nsonwu plays well in the friendlies - by Eurobasket News
Ukrainian teams continue preparation for the upcoming season playing the friendly games with the teams from abroad. Azovmash together with Nigerian Uche Nsonwu (208-F/C-78, agency: Beo Basket, college: Wyoming) looks good in the opening games. At first Azovmash beat Spartak-Primorye from Vladivostok 86:57 with the win in all the quarters. Ukrainian side started with 19:9 lead and improved to 12 points at the halftime. With 29:18 Azovmash finished the third period and then easily led the game to the winning effort. Marc Salyers top-scored for the winners with 23 points. Tomas Delininkaitis and Dijon Thompson ended up with 14 points apiece.

Later Azovmash went to Croatia to participate with three other teams in the friendly tournament. In the opener Azovmash smashed Russian representative Ural Great 91:72. The Ukrainian side was too good from the very beginning and led for the entire game. The board showed 57:36 as the teams left the court for the break. Later in the game the coach used the young players who also looked well in the court. Ural Great could reduce a bit but closed only to 19 points loss at the end. Marc Salyers led Ukrainian side with 23 points and 8 rebounds. Dijon Thompson produced 13 and Khalid El-Amin had 12.

Azovmash won the second game beating Slovenian Olimpia 77:66. It was a tough game but Ukrainian side looked more constant in all the quarters. Marc Salyers led the winners with 17 points. Uche Nsonwu collected 14 points and 6 rebounds, while Khalid El-Amin added 13. Mirza Sarajlija top-scored in defeat with 12 points and Zupan posted 9.

In the first game against Zadar, Azovmash was defeated 87:88. Due to the horrible work from the referees Ukrainian side could not compete with the Croatian. The local referees made everything to send Marc Salyers, Dijon Thompson and Khalid El-Amin to the bench. Zadar played well, but Azovmash decided not to play another friendly. Rok Stipcevic led the winners with 21 point, while Hrvoje Peric added 20. Marc Salyers top-scored for Azovmash with 24 points. Khalid El-Amin netted 20 and Uche Nsonwu poured in 12.

Universitet Surgut lands Akin Akingbala - by Eurobasket News
Russian team Universitet Surgut announced signing of Nigerian Akin Akingbala (208-F-83, college: Clemson). Surgut heads into the new season having big ambitions. During the summer the team agreed terms with well respected Serbian coach Zeljko Lukajic and later inked six seven more acquisitions. Akingbala supposes to be one of the team's leading players in 08/09.

Akin Akingbala spent last season in Latvian team Ventspils. He demonstrated pretty good performance in ULEB Cup finishing it as a second best blocker with 2.7 bpg. At the same time he also averaged 11.1 ppg and 7 rpg for 11 games. Akingbala also had nice digits in Latvian as well as in Baltic league. He helped Ventspils to grab the Bronze in Latvian championship addng 9.2 ppg, 6.8 rpg and 1.2 bpg. Almost the same numbers he recorded for 18 games in Baltic league. Season 06/07 Akingbala started in Los Angeles D-Fenders, which competed in NBDL, while in December he joined Spanish LEB team Plus Pujol Lleida. Interesting is that his average stats in Lleida was almost the same as the one from ULEB Cup with Ventspils last season. Akin Akingbala came out from Clemson University in 2006. His senior year was his best one as Akingbala averaged 12.1 ppg and 8.2 rpg. He had many pre-draft workouts but it was not enough for him to get into the NBA mix.

Ewing, Olajuwon linked again, this time in Hall - by Eurobasket News
SPRINGFIELD, Massachusetts, Sept 6, (AP): Hakeem Olajuwon (213-C/F-63, college: Houston) was asked Friday about the friendly rivalry he and Patrick Ewing shared during their careers as two of the greatest centers in basketball history. Who said it was friendly? Olajuwon replied. The 7-footers, who met for an NCAA title in 1984 and an NBA championship 10 years later, are both being enshrined in the Hall of Fame, part of a star-studded class that includes Adrian Dantley, former NBA coach Pat Riley, broadcaster Dick Vitale, Detroit Pistons and Shock owner Bill Davidson, and former Immaculata University coach Cathy Rush. Ewings Georgetown Hoyas beat Olajuwon and the Houston Cougars in that NCAA championship game. But Olajuwon earned two NBA rings in Houston, the first after beating Ewings New York Knicks in a classic seven-game series in 1994.

I could not picture my career without Patrick, Olajuwon said while speaking to reporters hours before the induction ceremony. We are so intertwined from college. We play alike in so many ways. We are blocking shots, steals, intimidation. When Patrick is at the other end of the floor, you know you are playing against your toughest opponent. Ewing, who was 12 when he came to the U.S. from Jamaica, said he felt a kinship with Olajuwon, who grew up playing team handball in Nigeria. Both, he said, found their identity while playing basketball in their new country. When I played against Hakeem, I definitely wanted to be at my best, Ewing said. I think he feels the same way. We both know what each other brings to the table intensity, energy, effort. You would have to put out 110 percent to play against each other.

Olajuwon led the Houston Cougars to three Final Fours in college. During his NBA career he scored almost 27,000 points, grabbed 13,747 rebounds and blocked 3,830 shots. Ewing also went to three Final Fours. He scored just under 25,000 points and pulled down 11,607 rebounds in the NBA, becoming the New York Knicks career leader in points, rebounds, blocked shots and steals. He earned two Olympic gold medals, but never got an NBA title. That still bothers me, said Riley, who coached Ewings 1994 Knicks team. Riley, after winning championships as a player and assistant, won five more as a coach four with the Showtime Los Angeles Lakers of the 1980s, and another with the Miami Heat in 2006. It took that final title, Riley said, to convince a lot of people that he really was a good coach.

I truly believe that what happened in Miami validated what probably a lot of people felt that I might not be able to do, and that what I did in New York and what I did in L.A. maybe was because there was just a lot of good players, said Riley, now president of the Heat. Dantley, who made it in after being a finalist for the Hall of Fame six other times, also spoke of validation Friday. He played for seven NBA teams during his 15-year career, scoring over 23,000 points. But he never felt that he got the respect he deserved. Ever since Ive been in high school, Ive dominated at every level, but my critics always had something to say about me, Dantley said. All those other guys, they were supposed to get in, they were talented. But I got in through hard work. Rush was 149-15 in her seven years as a head coach. She led Immaculata to three consecutive national championships in the 1970s, and is considered a pioneer in womens sports.

Young girls and young women now have people to look up to, idols that are also in team sports as well as individual sports, she said. Davidson, whose teams have won three NBA titles and two in the WNBA, enters the Hall of Fame as a contributor. He played a key role in structuring the NBAs salary cap and free agency systems. Davidson was also among the first owners to put NBA teams on private planes and luxury boxes closer to the court in arenas. Vitale, who gave Olajuwon his nickname the Dream, also will go in as a contributor. The ESPN color analyst has spent 30 years becoming the voice of college basketball extolling the virtues of PTPers (Prime Time Players), screaming Awesome baby! and being passed overhead through student sections across the country. His biggest lament Friday was the time limit Hall of Fame officials gave him for his acceptance speech. I cannot say hello in given minutes, Vitale said.

Courtesy of www.arabtimesonline.com/

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


Anderson takes a break, Aliens drop foreigners - by Kaare Vangen
Ulriken Eagles coach Jay Anderson has a sick leave and is replaced by two players as head coach. Audun Eskeland (176-G-85) and Peter Bullock (198-F-82, college: Alaska-Anch.) will lead the team while the coach recovers.

Asker Aliens plan to drop foreign players this season. Aliens feel that they have a good roster anyway and hope to make it at least to the semifinals in the playoff. Three Norwegian players have left the team. Espen L. Stien (188-G-86) will play for Jugglers Enschede in Netherland, Christian Hinsch (188-G-88, agency: Court Side) will take a year off and Lars Jaeger Torkildsen (193-G-81) will study in England.

Some players come: Patrik Sandstrom (190-F-78) will make a comeback, Haakon Skuggedal (201-F-83) has returned from studies in USA, Theodor Aliferis (183-G-88) comes from Persbraaten and Frank Nyborg (195-F-83) from Ulriken Eagles. Some junior players will also join the team.

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


Libertad grabs the first place, Sol and San Jose fighting for #2 spot - by Gianni Pascucci
Some nights ago, Libertad defeated Sol de Amrica 91-80, after an overtime, claiming the first place in the 'Top 5 Tournnment'. As usual in Paraguay, this will grant a 1 point bonus for the next leg of the competition, named Quadrangolar. Just before this game, Libertad had signed impor Renaldo Johnson (201-F-79, agency: Tank Sports, college: E.Tenn.St.) to replace in roster the injured Daniel Perez (190-G/F-84). The two teams tied at the second place, Sol de America and Deportivo San Jose, will meet themselves in an additional series to decided who will gain the 0,5 point bonus for the second place. The series is best of three games and starts tonight in Asuncion. The fourth team qualified for Quadrangolar is Universidad Autonoma de Asuncion

*****************************************************
  PBL   


Quad City Riverhawks to sit out 2009 season - by Eurobasket News
Premier Basketball League announced today that the Quad City Riverhawks will not actively participate in the upcoming PBL season. The Riverhawks will continue to work to solidify their venue as well as continue marketing efforts and plan to participate in the 2010 season.

'It is unfortunate that Quad City will not play this season,' stated Premier Basketball League President and Chief Executive Officer Thomas Doyle. 'However, we have always stressed to our owners that making smart business decisions regarding all aspects of organizational operations before attempting to play on the court is key to the success of an organization. We have guidelines that all of our teams understand and respect and we appreciate Tom McGinn's recognition of this. Tom is a very good businessman and we look forward to continuing to work with Tom and the Riverhawks.'

Premier Basketball League Chairman of the Board Dr. Severko Hrywnak commented, 'We look forward to Quad City having an active marketing presence this year and playing basketball again next season in the PBL.'

Courtesy of PBL

Battle Creek Knights Tryout Information: - by Lucius Jones

BATLE CREEK KNIGHTS of the PBL:

When: 13th of September

Where: at Triple Threat Sports located at 399 20th St N, Springfield MI 49307

Time: 8:30am to 4:00pm.

Cost: $40.00

This will be the Battle Creek Knights initial (and probably only) Free Agent Camp. At least one player (if not more) from this camp will be invited to vet camp beginning in December. This is a first class organization that has always been atop of the IBL in attendance figures, salary and housing, and usually winning as well. The 2005 IBL Champions should be a welcomed addition to the league. Many roster positions are available as of now with only 4 or 5 players signed including Grand Rapids Flight(IBL) standout Kenny Langhorne (6'5''-F/G-83, agency: ProSportsCareers, college: S.Arkansas) and D1 All American Ed McCants (6'4''-G-82, agency: ProSportsCareers, college: Wisc.-Milwaukee). Contact information is below:

Head Coach Terry Sare
terry.sare@kentcountymi.gov



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


Filipino-Canadian Dela Pena drafted by Philippines pro team - by Eurobasket News
TAGUIG, the Philippines - Filipino-Canadian shooting guard Kelvin Dela Pena has been drafted by the Alaska Aces (named for the team's milk company sponsor, not the U.S. state) of the professional Philippines Basketball Association (PBA).

The six-footer, who once played for Mount Royal College in Calgary, was taken by the Aces as the fifth pick in the second round of the PBA draft on Aug. 31. For three seasons, Dela Pena led the Mapua Institute of Technology Cardinals into the National Collegiate Athletics Association (NCAA-Philippines) Final Four. He was named the NCAA's most valuable player last season. His average digits were 15.7 points, 8.8 rebounds and a league-high 5.6 assists per game.

The Cardinals faced a do-or-die game this past Friday to decide whether they make the Final Four for a fourth straight season. Result of that game will be announced soon.

Courtesy of www.basketball.ca

Jason Castro home soon to join Phone Pals - by Eurobasket News
Jason Castro (173-G-86) is playing a second tournament with the Singapore Slingers in Kuala Lumpur, Malaysia then will return home to play for Talk N Text in the Philippine Basketball Association.

'He's under contract to play with the Slingers in the National Basketball League in Australia. Since the Slingers have left the NBL, Jason wants out. He's looking forward to play for Talk N Text,' said Castro's agent-adviser Danny Espiritu.

'The Slingers want an addendum in their contract to keep Jason, but Jason has made up his mind to go home after the Malaysian invitational,' Espiritu added.

Castro played his first tournament with the Slingers in the recent Sultan Cup in Brunei, leading the team to the championship and emerging as the league MVP.

The day after the Sultan Cup championship, the flamboyant guard out of Philippine Christian U was picked No. 3 overall in the 2008 PBA Rookie Draft. He's one of four draftees chosen by the Pals aside from Jared Dillinger, Rob Reyes and Pong Escobal.

After the Malaysian invitational, the Slingers are to return in their homebase in Singapore playing host to the Purefoods Tender Juicy Giants and Air21 Express among other foreign guest teams in their own invitational tourney.

'Jason wants out after Malaysia so he can start practicing with Talk N Text,' said Espiritu.

Four Australian players had left the Slingers after the Brunei Sultan Cup.

Apparently, Espiritu has closed a deal with Talk N Text for Castro while the player was abroad. The player is likely to get an P8.7 million package in three years as what Dillinger and Reyes stands to receive at the Smart/PLDT franchise.

Elsewhere, Red Bull has extended the playing contracts of Cyrus Baguio and Carlo Sharma, Air21 has re-signed Homer Se and KG Canaleta while Alaska has acquired 6-foot-7 center-forward Ervin Sotto.

Courtesy of www.pba.ph

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


Tournaments in Poland, 3rd day - by Michal Falkowski
Mazovia Cup Tournament in Warsaw, 3rd day

Anwil Wloclawek - SPEC Polonia Warsaw 69:58 (22:13, 13:22, 25:10, 9:13)
Anwil: Brkic 19, Henderson 19, Koszarek 11, Miller 7, Woloszyn 6, Boylan 5, Modric 2
SPEC Polonia: Ansley 12, Johnson 10, Laczynski 10, Harrington 7, Radke 6, Bacik 6, Frasunkiewicz 5, Adams 2

BK Ventspils - Norrkoping Dolphins 75:56
Vetnspils: Brazelton 20
Norrkoping: Saks 13

Final results:
1. Anwil Wloclawek 3-0
2. Polonia SPEC Warsaw 2-1
3. BK Ventspils 1-2
4. Dolphins Norrkoping 0-3

Tournament in Slupsk, 3rd day

Kotwica Kolobrzeg - Polpharma Starogard Gdanski 84:55 (15:22, 18:12, 25:11, 26:10)
Kotwica: Naymick 15, Mills 14, Hamilton 10, Przybyszewski 10, Kikowski 9, Stelmach 8, Cielebak 5, Crone 5, Brek 4, Barrett 2, Rduch 2
Polpharma: Glavas 12, Eldrige 9, Tuljkovic 7, Hicks 7, Zurawski 6, M. Drewa 4, Jarecki 3, Sulowski 3, Coleman 2, J. Drewa 2, Neumann 0, Kowalczuk 0

Energa Czarni Slupsk - PBG Basket Poznan 65:67 (13:16, 22:13, 14:14, 10:16, 6:8 )
Czarni: Straight 26, Ingram 9, Lebedev 9, Sroka 7, Leonczyk 4, Ratajczak 4, Howell 3, Bennett 3, Malesa 0, Dutkiewicz 0
PBG Basket: Davis 14, Bigus 14, Szawarski 12, McLean 12, Radwan 6, Brannen 5, Smorawinski 2, Flieger 2

Final results:
1. PBG Basket Poznan 3-0
2. Energa Czarni Slupsk 1-2
3. Kotwica Kolobrzeg 1-2
4. Polpharma Starogard Gdanski 1-2

Tournament in Rewal, 3rd day

Victoria Gornik Walbrzych - Bank BPS Basket Kwidzyn 87:105 (24:33, 14:25, 27:27, 22:20)
Victoria Gornik: Zablocki 23, Barro 16, Bierwagen 9, Raczynski 8, Waczynski 8, Steven 7, Ercegovic 5, Argrett 4, Jozefowicz 3, Pieloch 2, Carr 2, Konczak 0
Bank BPS Basket: Garner 30, Dabrowski 18, Grimes 15, Davis 11, Puncewicz 11, Tica 10, Lubeck 5, Malczyk 5, Mielnik 0

AZS Koszalin - Atlas Stal Ostrow Wielkopolski 95:69
no details

Final results:
1. AZS Koszalin 3-0
2. Bank BPS Basket Kwidzyn 1-2
3. Atlas Stal Ostrow Wielkopolski 1-2
4. Victoria Gornik Walbrzych 1-2

Tournaments in Poland, 2nd day - by Michal Falkowski
Mazovia Cup Tournament in Warsaw, 2nd day

SPEC Polonia Warszawa - Norrkoping Dolphins 75:61 (21:15, 18:12, 20:16, 16:18)
SPEC Polonia: Harrington 17, Ansley 11, Radke 10, Laczynski 10, Adams 8, Frasunkiewicz 6, Przybylski 2, Bacik 1, Aziewicz 0, Krajewski 0, Ludwin 0
Norrkoping: Gervin 20, Drains 14, McNaull 8

BK Ventspils - Anwil Wloclawek 53:91 (15:12, 13:25, 11:24, 14:30)
Anwil: Brkic 28, Miller 19, Boylan 12, Woloszyn 8, Janiak 6, Modric 6, Henderson 5, Michalski 4, Koszarek 3, Gabinski 0
Ventspils: Strelnieks 13, Zakis 13, Jurevicius 8

Tournament in Slupsk, 2nd day

Energa Czarni Slupsk - Polpharma Starogard Gdanski 82:92 (25:23, 18:29, 18:21, 21:19)
Energa Czarni: Sroka 26, Ingram 15, Straight 14, Bennett 9, Leonczyk 6, Howell 5, Malesa 3, Ratajczak 2, Lebedev 2
Polpharma: Coleman 19, Hicks 17, Jarecki 13, Eldridge 12, Sulowski 8, Tulijkovic 8, Glavas 7, Kowalczuk 6, Zurawski 2

Kotwica Kolobrzeg - PBG Basket Poznan 54:64 (12:17, 19:12, 4:17, 19:18)
Kotwica: Mills 17, Barret 16, Cielebak 6, Naymick 6, Crone 3, Brek 3, Stelmach 3
PBG Basket: Brannen 14, Davis 12, McLean 12, Radwan 10, Szawarski 7, Bigus 6, Matelski 3

Tournament in Rewal, 2nd day

Victoria Gornik Walbrzych - AZS Koszalin 74:79 (20:30, 21:13, 16:20, 17:16)
Victoria Gornik: Ercegovic 13, Waczynski 12, Carr 11, Zablocki 11, Steven 7, Raczynski 7, Barro 6, Bierwagen 4, Pieloch 3
AZS: Mojica 21, Barycz 17, Callahan 15, Bradford 12, Swanson 7, Luszczewski 7, Reese 0, Diduszko 0, Arabas 0

Bank BPS Basket Kwidzyn - Atlas Stal Ostrow Wielkopolski 65:81
no details

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


Ovarense sign Jamal Basit - by Bruno Baltazar
Ovarense just signed american center with 29 years old of age Jamal Basit (206-C-78, agency: Rasmussen Services, college: Delaware) .
He is well known for his defense skills and his itensity on the game , in NCAA he played for Massachussetts and Delaware in his senior season .
Professionaly he played for Maryland Mustangs from USBL and already played in Portugal in Aug.'01 replaced injured Joe Linderman at CAB Madeira (POR), lwft in Oct.'01: 16.3 points, 9.5 rebounds, 1.3 blocks, 1.1 steals, and 1.0 assists, while shooting 60% FG and 70% FT; Ranked in the league third in offensive rebounds (3.8 orpg), fifth in blocks, sixth in total rebounds, eighth in FG%, and tenth in defensive rebounds (5.7 drpg).
Then he played in Israel and since 2002/2003 he is been playing in Germany , last season he played for POM baskets Jena (Germany-1.Bundesliga): 29 games: 9.9ppg, 7.0rpg, 1.0apg, 2FGP: 59.7%, FT: 63.7%
Seems to be a great adiction to Ovarense inside game.

Fisica News - by Luis Rocha
The last season champions, were forced to make many changes in their roster. The leave of players such Ekjersey Viana (203-F/C-77), Miguel Barroca (182-G-84), Bruno Santos (191-F-81) and both foreigners, made the team search for new players. They signed Raul Porto (202-F-83) (ex.Seixal) a nice player who can play as a 3 or 4, and that can turn into a very good player if he put more intensity in his game. Ricardo Rodrigues (185-G-81) (ex. Queluz) a point guard with good shooting range but not as good when it turns to leading the game against though defenders. Benedito Suca (196-F-84) (ex Academia) a powerfull player with many things to learn in all basketball items. Nuno Monteiro (180-G-86) (ex Belenenses) a young guy with quickest feet, and good ability to shoot from outside the arch, he needs to calm his game in order to be a decisive player. Miguel Salvador (187-G-81) (ex Lusitania), a combo guard, very quick and explosive, also with great defensive ability, but another player that needs to temper all his actions to be much more consistent. The roster will sign some foreign players but untill now they are searching.

Portugal heavily defeated - by Luis Rocha
Portugal has been playing in a lousy manner. since the friendlies things aren`'t so well as they should. The defence is too weak over the guys who drive, and most of the times the help comes to close and allows the open men to shoot completely at ease. The offense seems to be not well known, the players move the ball quicly but they fail to find the right time to penetrate or to shoot, missing a lot of open spaces and good positions wheter to shoot or to penetrate. Las t night in Macedonia everything just colapse, the home team made a terrific game and enjoying of some lack of trust from the Portoguese, simply smashed their opponents by winning 85-48. Its the second defeat for Portugal, and the chances of getting the qualification are now scarce, but the worst of all, is that the quality of the game showed is really desapointing. Coach Moncho Lopez has a lot to deal with, and still many things to work on.

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


Ural Great could win any games in Croatia - by Eurobasket News
Eurobasket wrote that Russian Ural Great went to Croatia to participate with Slovenian, Croatian and Ukrainian teams. At first Azovmash smashed Russian representative Ural Great 91:72. The Ukrainian side was too good from the very beginning and led for the entire game. The board showed 57:36 as the teams left the court for the break. Later in the game the coach used the young players who also looked well in the court. Ural Great could reduce a bit but closed only to 19 points loss at the end. Marc Salyers (205-F-79, college: Samford) led Ukrainian side with 23 points and 8 rebounds. Dijon Thompson (201-G/F-83, college: UCLA) produced 13 and Khalid El-Amin had 12.
In the second day Zadar beat Russian Ural Great 82:80. For the Russian team that was the game when they could win, but the hosts were a bit stronger. Jere Macura top-scored with 23 points and Romel Beck (203-G/F-82, agency: Interperformances, college: UNLV) nailed 18.
In the third day of the tournament Olimpia beat Ural Great 77:68. Mirza Begic (218-C-85) top-scored for the winners with 22 points. Jasmin Hukic (204-G/F-79, agency: Beo Basket) nailed 15 and Milic posted 9. Wallace poured in 8, while Crawfrod and Saso Ozbolt (188-G-81, agency: World Sport Agency) added 5 apiece.

Dynamo Moscow releases Petr Samoylenko, UNICS wants him back - by Eurobasket News
Dynamo Moscow terminated the contract with National Team player Petr Samoylenko (186-G-77). Experienced point guard played just one season in Dynamo but without any important records. He registered 17 appearances in Russian Superleague averaging 3.1 ppg, 1.8 rpg and 3.5 apg. For 13 games in ULEB Cup Samoylenko had 3 ppg and 3.1 apg. His team stopped in three semifinals last season: ULEB Cup, Superleague play-off and National Cup. Samoylenko was a part of Russian NT which won the gold medal on the previous European Championship in Spain. This summer he also participated in NT project but Russians faced with huge fiasco on the Olympic Games in Beijing. Samoylenko played 3 games getting just 11 minutes in total.
As soon as Dynamo announced contract termination UNICS showed serious intention to bring Samoylenko back. Namely, the player spent 9 years in the team from Kazan before he joined Dynamo. During this long period UNICS won FIBA Europe League in 2004 and was Superleague regular season champion in 2001. In 2007 UNICS reached the semifinals of ULEB Cup. Except of these two teams Samoylenko also played for Samara. Since 1999 he is member of Russian National Team.

Eight new players for Universitet Surgut in 08/09 - by Eurobasket News
On Saturday Universitet Surgut officially announced signings of seven new players. Contracts with the club inked Andrei Komarovski (196-G-85), Andrei Vokhmyanin (185-G-81), Lionel Chalmers (183-G-80, college: Xavier), Nikola Lepojevic (195-G-82, agency: Beo Basket), Slavko Stefanovic (206-F-81, agency: Beo Basket) and Akin Akingbala (208-F-83, college: Clemson). The team also loaned Igor Smygin (198-G/F-87) and Petr Gubanov (207-C-87) from Khimky.

Andrei Komarovski arrived from Triumph Lyubertsy where he didn't have so many chances to play. For 12 games in Russian Superleague Komarovski averaged 4.1 ppg and 1.3 rpg. He had even lower digits for 7 games in ULEB Cup. In the past he played for CSK VSS Samara and Arsenal Tula. He was a member of U16, U18 and U20 Russian National Teams.
Andrei Vokhmyanin played last six seasons in Lokomotiv Novosybirsk. At his last one Vokhmyanin recorded 5.2 ppg, 1.2 rpg, 1.9 apg and 1 spg. Before Lokomotiv, he played for Arsenal Tula and Sovetsk Kirov.
Lionel Chalmers had wonderful last season in Benetton Treviso. He appeared 12 times in ULEB Cup adding 15.6 ppg, 2.9 rpg, 2.5 apg and 1.7 spg. Almost the same digits Chalmers had for 34 games in Serie A. Since he graduated at Xavier in 2004, Chalmers was a member of AEK Athens, TAU Ceramica, Banco di Sardegna Sassari and Zaragoza.
Slavko Stefanovic started last season in Serbian team Mega Aqua Monta and later joined ALBA Berlin. Very soon he returned to Mega after what he moved to Bosnian team Igokea Partizan. Stefanovic averaged 17.9 ppg and 5.4 rpg in Serbian A1 league.
Nikola Lepojevic began 07/08 in Ukraininan Khimik while in January he agreed terms with Polpak Swecie. He appeared 26 times in Polish DBE adding 11.3 ppg and 2 rpg.
Akin Akingbala played last season in Ventspils having 11.1 ppg, 7 rpg and 2.7 bpg in ULEB Cup. Very similar digits Akingbala had in Latvian as well as in Baltic league.

Universitet Surgut kept Dmitri Pervukhin (206-F-86), Aleksandr Savenkov (205-F-82) and Sergei Krasnikov (201-F/G-79) for 08/09.

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


Petar Popovic signed for Estudiantes - by Zoran Popovic
Serbian center Petar Popovic (211-C-79) signed short term contract with MMT Estudiantes Madrid. Popovic will temporary replace Martin Rancik who has problem with injury. Popovic last season played for Joventut and on 28 games in Spanish league scored average 4.8 points, 1.4 rebounds per game, and in ULEB Cup on 11 games scored average 9.0 points, 2,7 rebounds.
Petar Popovic started career in Spartak Subotica 1999-2000 and played for Crvena Zvezda 2000-2001 and 2006-2007, Hemofarm Stada 2001-2005 and Benetton Treviso 2005-2006. Popovic was member of Serbia and Montenegro National team on Olipmic games in Athens 2004.

Cedomir Vitkovac paces Partizan Igokea to trophy on memorial tournament 'Piva Ivkovic' - by Dragan Jankovski
Partizan Igokea demonstrated its power against Bosnian team Igokea Partizan 87-69 in the final of memorial tournament 'Slobodan Piva Ivkovic', which was held in Belgrade. Only ten minutes in the second quarter was enough for reining Serbian and Adriatic league champion to resolve question about the winner. After opening 21-21, fantastic Cedomir Vitkovac (201-F-82) nailed 15 points for just six minutes in the second period. He was the main reason why Partizan went on the half time with comfortable plus 18. Igokea Partizan for sure would treat until the end but its best player on this tournament Vladimir Vuksanovic (205-F-78, agency: Interperformances) got injured in third quarter. Interesting is that except of the second one, all other frames were totally equalized (21-21, 17-17, 20-20).
Cedomir Vitkovac was unstoppable in this final scoring 22 points. Strahinja Milosevic (203-G/F-85, agency: Beo Basket) and Marko Djurkovic (205-C/F-87) were behind him with 13 points each. Alton Mason (185-G-77, agency: Court Side, college: Arizona St.) shined in Igokea Partizan scoring 17 points.

In the battle for third place Vojvodina Srbijagas smashed Radnicki Belgrade 111-57. Final result was expected as Vojvodina possesses much higher quality than famous Belgrade's team, which now competes in Serbian lower divisions. Dejan Borovnjak (208-F-86) led Vojvodina Srbijagas to win netting 24 points. Marko Sutalo (194-G-83) had four less than him. Zivanovic was the only one with double figures for the loosing side adding 12 points.

Vladimir Tica shines in Poland - by Dragan Jankovski
Power forward / center Vladimir Tica (208-C/F-81, agency: Beo Basket) of Bank BPS Basket Kwidzyn shined on tournament in Polish city Rewal. At the opening day Kwudzyn lost against AZS Koszalin 79-85 but Serbian big guy was the best player of the game. He spent 29 minutes on court netting 27 points. As a reminder Tica joined Bank BPS Basket Kwidzyn two weeks ago from another Polish team Polpak Swecie. Before Polpak, Tica used to play in Crvena Zvezda, Hemofarm, Dynamo Moscow, Khimik and Braunschweig.

Bank BPS Basket Kwidzyn ended last season on eighth place in DBE. In 2007 the team won 1Liga earning a promotion to DBE.

Buducnost beat Swisslions in a friendly game, Pamesa interested in Kosta Perovic - by Dragan Jankovski
Participant of Serbian A1 league and BIBL Swisslions Takovo played another friendly game. This time Swisslions faced with Montenegrin champion Buducnost Podgorica loosing 73-84 at its home court in Vrsac. Visitors entered into this game strongly finishing first quarter 19-29. Vladimir Micov (201-F-85, agency: Beo Basket) was unstoppable from the early beginning leading his team to another impressive period. During the second frame Buducnost stretched lead to comfortable plus 18. The hosts had only two players in a game mood, Radovan Markovic (192-G-82) and Igor Jokic (204-F-80, agency: VTBM/SRBM). They shined for Swisslions in third quarter but it was enough only for minus 10. Buducnost played the last one with routine keeping its advantage without any problems.
Vladimir Micov was the best player in the winning team netting 20 points. Center Nenad Misanovic (217-C-84) also was good scoring 17 points while Dujic followed with 15. Radovan Markovic scored 14 points for Swisslions while Igor Jokic had 13.

According to the rumors Spanish Pamesa Valencia showed serious intention to add Serbian Kosta Perovic (217-C-85) to 3-year deal. Perovic spent last season NBA team Golden State Warriors. Actually he appeared only 7 times in NBA while more than a half of the season he played for Bakersfeld Jam, which competes in D-league. For those 7 NBA games Perovic had 1.4 ppg and 1.9 rpg. Much beter digits he had in NBDL averaging 9.3 ppg and 7 rpg in 21 games. Neither of the teams, Pamesa nor Golden State, officially announced anything about Perovic's possible transfer to Valencia. It seems that Warriors will have the last word.

FMP cadets celebrate on 'Juan del Moral' in Barcelona, Hemofarm better than Surgut in a friendly - by Dragan Jankovski
Young Panthers won traditional tournament 'Juan del Moral' in Barcelona. In the first round FMP met Estudiantes recording an easy win 107-66. Pavlovic and Popovski led FMP scoring 16 points apiece. Miljenovic stopped on 15. In the second round Unicaja faced with FMP's power suffering defeat 68-90. This time Miljenovic was the best with 20 points. FMP beat Barcelona in third round in very interesting game 76-71. Miljenovic netted 34 points for the winners. In the semifinals Panthers took care for 76-70 win against Cajasol Sevilla while they destroyed Joventut in the final 89-57. Popovski was the leading FMP's player in big final scoring 20 points.
Miljenovic was named MVP of the tournament while at the same time he was the second best assistant. FMP was the only team outside of Spain on 'Juan del Moral' .

In the meantime Hemofarm STADA played a friendly game against Russian team Universitet Surgut, whose head coach is Zeljko Lukajic. Both teams showed promising basketball level. Hemofarm was slightly better celebrating 81-76. Slovenian guard Nebojsa Joksimovic (193-G-81, agency: Beo Basket) was the best player of Hemofarm STADA netting 16 points. Center Vladan Vukosavljevic (206-F/C-84, agency: Beo Basket) had 11 while Bojan Krstovic (194-G-80) followed him with 10 points.

Partizan Igokea and Igokea Partizan in the final of memorial tournament 'Piva Ivkovic' - by Dragan Jankovski
Serbian champion Partizan Igokea and Bosnian top team Igokea Partizan will meet each other in the final of memorial tournament 'Piva Ivkovic' in Belgrade.

In the first day of the tournament Partizan Igokea outplayed Vojvodina Srbijagas 74-65. It was an easy game for Belgrade's team as it created 12-point lead already in the first quarter keeping it steady until the end. Black-and-whites ended second quarter 16-15 while third one was totally leveled 19-19. During the last ten minutes Vojvodina exploited inexperience of Partizan's youngsters coming on 65-61 with 5 minutes remaining but the Tulips didn't have enough power for a turn. Cedomir Vitkovac (201-F-82) immediately answered with a triple after what Marko Djurkovic (205-C/F-87) and Jan Vesely (210-F/C-90) made two baskets resolving the question about the winner. Marko Djurkovic, who scored 16 points, and Cedomir Vitkovac, who drained 15, were the leading players for Partizan. Marko Jovanovic (214-C-82) scored 15 points for Vojvodina while ex player of Partizan Igokea Dejan Borovnjak (208-F-86) had 10.

In the second game Igokea Partizan was better than Serbian team Radnicki Belgrade 86-69. Bosnian team dominated during the entire time, except of the last quarter when coach Badnjarevic decided to rest some of his best players. Vladimir Vuksanovic (205-F-78, agency: Interperformances) was the top scorer in Igokea Partizan with 17 points. Nikola Bulajic (208-C-84) was behind him with 13. On the other side Radnicki got 18 points from Olujic.

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  SLOVENIA   


Gorica target two import players - by Zeljko Zule

A1 UPC Telemach League newcomer Nova Gorica is very close to American Mark Keith (195-G-82, college: La-Monroe) and Croatian Toni Soda (212-C-88) ex Dalvin.

.



Olimpia wins and loses - by Eurobasket News
Olimpia participated in Croatian tournmanet and here are the results. Azovmash beat Slovenian Olimpia 77:66. It was a tough game but Ukrainian side looked more constant in all the quarters. Marc Salyers led the winners with 17 points. Nwosu collected 14 points and 6 rebounds, while Khalid El-Amin added 13. Mirza Sarajlija (183-G-91) top-scored in defeat with 12 points and Zupan posted 9.
In another day of the tournament Olimpia beat Ural Great 77:68. Mirza Begic (218-C-85) top-scored for the winners with 22 points. Jasmin Hukic (204-G/F-79, agency: Beo Basket) nailed 15 and Milic posted 9. Wallace poured in 8, while Crawfrod and Ozbolt added 5 apiece.

Azovmash Olimpia 77:66
Azovmash: Marc Salyers 17, Nwonsu 14+6 rebs, Khalid El-Amin13
Olimpia: Mirza Sarajlija 12, Zupan 9

Olimpia-Ural Great 77:68
Olimpia: Mirza Begic 22, Jasmin Hukic 15, Milic 9, Wallace 8, Crawfrod 5, Ozbolt 5.

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  SOUTH KOREA   


New KBL Chief - by Rick Ross
New KBL commissioner Chon Yook
Former journalist Chon Yook was inaugurated as the commissioner of the
Korean Basketball League and he vowed to make the most of his previous job experience.

Chon, 62, joined the JoongAng Ilbo in 1969 and covered politics and
national affairs before becoming the papers chief editor in 1997.
Four years later, Chon became president of JoongAng Broadcasting Corp.

And Chon, who was voted in unanimously by the leagues board of directors early August,
said he will use his skills acquired from journalism to the best of professional basketball in Korea.

In my three decades in journalism, I gained valuable experience in
leadership and in dealing with different people in the trenches, Chon said.
I know I have no previous experience in sports management and some may see that as a problem.

But I think I can more than make up for it with my skills, energy and determination,
Chon added. The new commissioner said the goal is to make the KBL more accessible to a greater number of fans.

Fans who cant make it to the stadiums should be able to catch games on
television more often and we should have all weekend games on television,
Chon said. We must put better basketball on court and make the sport more appealing to the masses.

Chon, who said he has always been an avid basketball fan, added basketball
now has to compete with other sports and entertainment for the publics
attention and has lagged in terms of marketing strategies.

We must start marketing around star players, Chon said. We must try something different,
like putting individual players on variety shows on TV for more exposure.

The new commissioner said the league will need help from regional governments in other areas.
As far as improving stadiums, we cant do it all by ourselves, Chon said.
Basically, regional authorities must have faith in our league and open their pockets.
Otherwise, theres only so much the teams and the league can do.

The KBL chief was also asked about the foreign players regulation in the league.
Currently, teams are allowed to sign two foreigners, and only one of
them can play in the second and third quarters. Starting in the 2009-10 season,
teams will still have two foreign players but only one can play at any point during the game.

Chon said he is well aware of the negative effects of the system,
which has stunted the growth of young local talent as foreign players
began to dominate scoring. He said he is open to changes of the regulation.

We will wait and see if the new system next season will help Korean players,
Chon said. But if we still see problems, wed have to find an alternative.

Whatever it may be, he continued, it will have to be something that
will allow Korean players to excel.

As for possible restructuring at the KBL, Chon chose his words carefully.
I understand a new commissioner should consider making some organizational changes,
he said. But I still dont know much about the KBL and it would be
risky to attempt to change things at this point.

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


Driesen to Illescas, Perovic to Pamesa? - by Natxo Mendaza
According to the local media, MMT Estudiantes and LEB-Gold member Illescas CM Urban agreed terms for the loaning of Belgian prospect Yannick Driesen (215-C-88), now playing the EC Qualifiers with the NT. Driessen was pretended by Illescas head coach since the summer started, and now it seems the deal will be officialized very soon. On the other hand, Pamesa Valencia is waiting for news coming from the States, as Kosta Perovic (217-C-85) is trying to break his contract with the Golden State Warriors to join the Spanish team. According to the words of General Manager Johnny Rogers, Pamesa and Perovic have agreed terms already (3 million euros per 3 season) but nothing will be signed until Perovic terminates his NBA contract.

Prigioni Fires Tau to Pre-Season Victory - by Paul Nilsen
An inspirational performance from Pablo Prigioni (186-G-77) on his return from a bronze medal at the Bejiing Olympics handed Tau Ceramica a comfortable 7-96 victory at Club Ourense on Sunday night writes www.acb-basket.com. His 27 points was the highlight of a strong performance by Baskonia with the guard securing four three-pointers as well as 4 rebounds and 4 assists for a valuation of 36.

Backcourt partner Igor Rakocevic weighed in with 17 points to emphasise the experienced weapons that the play-off champions have in the guard spots and while new coach Dusko Ivanovic spoke over the weekend of the difficulty in defending a title, he surely has the firepower to have a really good attempt at it.

Of course Tau still have some way to go in terms of fitness and were pushed harder than the score suggests by their opponent, in particular in a tight first half. However the Vitorians scored 25 points in each of the last three quarters to seal an easy win in the end and provide the kind of consistency that will have pleased Ivanovic.

In addition, new signing Fernando San Emeterio (198-G/F-84) looked good in the wake of his move from Girona and scored 13 points.

Petar Popovic head to Estu replacing convalescent Martin Rancik - by Francisco Martinez
Serbian center Petar Popovic (211-C-79) has signed for Estudiantes. The contract is not for the whole season, just for replacing convalescent Martin Rancik (204-F/C-78, college: Iowa St.)

Slovakian power forward Martin Rancik was operated after being detected a benign arrhythmia few days ago.

Petar Popovic played in the last season for DKV Joventut, averaging 4.8 points and 1.4 rebounds per game in ACB, 9 points and 2,7 rebounds per game in Uleb Cup.

C.B. Fundacion Valdemoro Sligo XXI sign Anthony Williams - by Eurobasket
C.B. Fundacion Valdemoro Sligo XXI (LEB) agreed terms with 25-year old American forward Anthony Williams (203-F-83, college: Cent.Florida, agency: AMI). Williams played most recently tested at Usakspor Belediyesi (Turkey), but has not signed. He played last two season in Norway for Tromso Storm, where he was twice selected to Eurobasket.com All-Norwegian BLNO 1st Team as well as twice was in top 5 scorers list. It will be his third pro season in Europe.

*****************************************************
  SRI LANKA   


Joes - U 17 All-Island 'A' Div Basketball Champs - by Eurobasket News
St. Joseph's College, Colombo 10 emerged champions at the Under 17 'A' Division All-Island Basketball Tournament at St. Sebastian's College Courts, Moratuwa.

In a closely contested final, they beat St. Benedict's College, Kotahena by 58 to 50 after leading 22 to 19 at half time.

Shehan Wasana Perera, captain of the Josephian team was named Player of the Tournament while Praneeth Udumalagala was the Best Defensive Player.

On their way to the final, the Joes beat Royal College, Colombo by 69 to 25, Trinity College, Kandy by 76 to 58 and St. Joseph's College, Enderamulla by 90 to 41 in their preliminary round matches. In the quarter-finals, they beat Lyceum International School by 88 to 57. In the semis they beat St. Sebastian's College, Moratuwa by 96 to 59.

The victorious Josephian team was coached by Roshan Randima with Shane Daniels as assistant coach.

Courtesy of www.sundayobserver.lk

*****************************************************
  SWEDEN   


Gothia Basket sign Jonathan Moore - by Eurobasket
Gothia Basket strengthened their roster with addition of 26-year old American swingman Jonathan Moore (203-F/G-82, college: N.C.Central, agency: LimeLight). Moore played most recently at TBB Trier (Germany). He had 2-year contract with 1.Bundesliga team. But he did not play a lot last season (4.6ppg, 3.6rpg) and decided to move to Sweden. It will be his fourth professional season. He played also in various pro leagues in the States.

Dolphins finishes Mazovia Cup - by Eurobasket News
Norrkoping Dolphins finishes Mazovia Cup Tournament in Warsaw. The team participated with SPEC Polonia Warszawa, BK Ventspils and Anwil Wloclawek.
As you know in the opener of the day the team lost to Anwil Wloclawek 52:89. Polish side looked much better throughout the game and won all the periods the team lost to Anwil Wloclawek 52:89. Polish side looked much better throughout the game and won all the periods.
In Day 2 SPEC Polonia Warszawa defeated Norrkoping Dolphins 75:61. The Polish side started with 21:15 and increased to 39:27 at the halftime. SPEC Polonia Warszawa added 20:16 in the third period to dominate the court fully. Norrkoping Dolphins could win the last period 18:16 but not the game itself. Harrington led the winners with 17 points. Michael Ansley (200-F-67, college: Alabama) nailed 11, while Radke and Kamil Laczynski (177-G-89) scored 10 each. Gee Gervin (188-G-76, college: Houston) top-scored for the Swedish side with 20 points. Fred Drains (195-F-71, college: Kean) netted 14 and Joe McNaull (208-C-72, agency: SportsTalent, college: Long Beach St.) had 8.
In the last day of the tournament BK Ventspils overcame Norrkoping Dolphins 75:56. Latvian team won the only game in the tournament and left Swedish team winless. Tyrone Brazelton (180-G, college: W.Kentucky) led the winners with 20 points as BK Ventspils finished with 1-2 record. Saks poured in 13 points in defeat as Norrkoping Dolphins are 0-3.

Day 2
SPEC Polonia Warszawa - Norrkoping Dolphins 75:61 (21:15, 18:12, 20:16, 16:18)
SPEC Polonia: Harrington 17, Michael Ansley 11, Radke 10, Kamil Laczynski 10, Adams 8, Frasunkiewicz 6, Przybylski 2, Bacik 1, Aziewicz 0, Krajewski 0, Ludwin 0
Norrkoping: Gee Gervin 20, Fred Drains 14, Joe McNaull 8

Day 3
BK Ventspils - Norrkoping Dolphins 75:56
Vetnspils: Tyrone Brazelton 20
Norrkoping: Saks 13

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


UBL TRYOUTS STARTS OCTOBER 1, 2008 - by Ozzie Denson
The United Basket Basketball will starts having teams Tryouts Oct 1, 2008. If you are interested in playing professional basketball , The UBL is waiting for you. Please contact Coach Ozzie Denson or the UBL Teams Owners . This year the UBL will take basketball to a higher level. Call coach Denson at 972-781-8120 or email at ozzie@ublwranglers. Please visit our site at www.ublhoops.com or www.ublwrangles.com



UBL OWNERS MEETING SAT. 9/13/2008 - by Ozzie Denson

The UBL will have its Owners Meeting this coming Saturday 9/13/08. It you are interested in Owning an UBL Team please call Mr. Ozzie V.Denson 972-781-8120
Please visit our site at www.ublhoops.com or www.ublwranglers.com. The meeting will start at 9:00 am at the Motel 6 conference room in Addison Texas. The address
to Motel 6 is 4325 Beltline Rd Addison Texas 75001. Make your reservation by calling 972-386-4577. I will see you there.
Coach Ozzie Denson CEO (UBL)
United Basketball League
www.ublhoops.com
www.ublwranglers.com

TEAM UBL



Ozzie Denson UBL Owner & CEO - by Ozzie Denson

Ozzie Denson the New Owner and CEO of the UBL United Basketball League. Is looking forward for the 2008/09 season. The League is looking to start 12 or more new teams for the upcoming season.
We are having new sponsors that will be apart of our UBL League Programs. The UBL Owners meeting is this Saturday 9/13/08 in Addison TX, Please visit our site www.ublhoops.com or www.ublwranglers.com for more information.



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


Khimik and Dnipro win, Budivelnik lose a tough one - by Eurobasket News
Ukrainian squads are still playing away from home in order to be challenge teams for the upcoming season.
Khimik overcame Alitus 85:80 on Sunday. Olu Famutimi (197-G-84, agency: CGL Sports, college: Arkansas) led the winners with 18 points and 9 rebounds. Sergei Sabutskiy (208-C-86) followed him with 12 points in the winning effort.
Neptunas hosted Ukrainian Budivelnik and Dnipro. In the first game Dnipro celebrated 70:61 victory mostly due to the third period. Ukrainian squad opened the game with 20:18 and improved to 4 points at the halfitme. With a great 19:11 in the third Dnipro was managed to control the rest of the game. Neptunas however won the last period 16:13 to reduce to 9 points. Anderson led Ukrainian side with 13 points, while Grigori Khizhnyak (216-C-74) netted 12. Daniil Kozlov (207-C-82) and Chigrinov followed them with 10 points apiece.
In the second game Neptunas beat Budivelnik 86:84. It was a tough game with the back-to-back baskets. Both sides stayed in front for the majority of the time and Neptunas won due to the last period.

The referees were against Azovmash in Croatia - by Eurobasket News
Eurobasket wrote that Azovmash went to Croatia to participate with three other teams in the friendly tournament. In the opener Azovmash smashed Russian representative Ural Great 91:72. The Ukrainian side was too good from the very beginning and led for the entire game. The board showed 57:36 as the teams left the court for the break. Later in the game the coach used the young players who also looked well in the court. Ural Great could reduce a bit but closed only to 19 points loss at the end. Marc Salyers (205-F-79, college: Samford) led Ukrainian side with 23 points and 8 rebounds. Dijon Thompson produced 13 and Khalid El-Amin (178-G-79, agency: Beo Basket, college: Connecticut) had 12.

Azovmash won the second game beating Slovenian Olimpia 77:66. It was a tough game but Ukrainian side looked more constant in all the quarters. Marc Salyers led the winners with 17 points. Nsonwu Uche collected 14 points and 6 rebounds, while Khalid El-Amin added 13. Mirza Sarajlija (183-G-91) top-scored in defeat with 12 points and Zupan posted 9.

In the first game against Zadar, Azovmash was defeated 87:88. Due to the horrible work from the referees Ukrainian side could not compete with the Croatian. The local referees made everything to send Marc Salyers, Dijon Thompson and Khalid El-Amin to the bench. Zadar played well, but Azovmash decided not to play another friendly. Rok Stipcevic led the winners with 21 point, while Hrvoje Peric added 20. Marc Salyers top-scored for Azovmash with 24 points. Khalid El-Amin netted 20 and Nsonwu Uche poured in 12.



Azovmash Olimpia 77:66
Azovmash: Marc Salyers 17, Nsonwu Uche 14+6 rebs, Khalid El-Amin 13
Olimpia: Mirza Sarajlija 12, Zupan 9


Azovmash Zadar 87:88
Azovmash: Marc Salyers 24, Khalid El-Amin 20, Julius Nwosu 12
Zadar: Rok Stipcevic 21, Hrvoje Peric 20

*****************************************************
  UNITED ARAB EMIRATES   


Market News - by Mohammed Malas

- An Nasr sports club succeeded to have the services of the american center Marquis Estill (206-F-81, college: Kentucky) to be the 2nd import of the team with Trello Galloway under the command of serbian coach Srdjan Antic .

Estill was graduated from Kentucky University back in the US in 2003, He played professional basketball in Italy and Japan.

- The american bigman Corsley Edwards (206-C/F-79, agency: Edge Sports, college: Cent.Conn.St.) will add UAE in his career as he will play for Al Ahli for the upcoming season...

Edwards has a big career as he played before in NBA, Turkey & Spain....

The former player of Al Wasl Courtney Fields (206-F-82, college: Iona) will play alongisde with Edwards in Al Ahli...

- Tunisian National team star Radhouane Slimane (205-C-80) will play with Al Shaab club...

- Former Al Ahli player Vincent Jones (210-C-77, college: Jackson St.) will be the 2nd import of Al Shabab alongside with Shawn Malloy...

Sleiman played outside of Tunisia in Saudi Arabia & Portugal before going back to the tunisia again...

- Herve Lamizana (208-F/C-81, college: Rutgers) will stay with Al Wasl for additional season, Lamizana is the player of Ivory Coast national team and has big career esspacially in China....


- Vice-President cup will begin next thursday....Teams were devided into two groups:

Group A: Ahly ,Shaab, Wasl and Ahly.
Group B: Nasr , Sharjah, Shabab, and Nasr.



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


Heberth Bayona injured in Colombia's season opener - by Francisco Vega
Barquisimeto, Venezuela.- Venezuelan center Herbert Bayona (211-C-78) injured a muscle in his right leg and had to be treated by the medical staff of his team, Arrieros de Antioquia, in the opening match of Copa Invitacional de Baloncesto, first division basketball of Colombia. Arrieros defeated Piratas de Bogota, 79-75, despites the injury of Bayona and the absence of shooter Jermaine Walker (198-F-77).

According to Colombia's Latinbasket.com correspondant, Victor Garcia, Bayona had been doing a good job right till the moment of his injury, though the extent of it is yet to be determined by further exams. Countryman Diego Guevara (184-G-77) also had a good game for the winning team, but the top scorers were Norbey Aragon (193-G/F-78) with 33 points and 7 rebounds, supported by Humberto Soler (183-G-74) with 20 points, including 5 three-pointers.

In another match, Cruz Salcedo (190-G-74) netted 20 points and Miguel Angel Marriaga (207-C-84) got some action, but their team, two-time champions Bucaros de Bucaramanga, started the 2008 season with a defeat against San Andres Islanders, with a final score of 88-79. Indervalle Cali defeated Patriotas de Tunja 100-85, the team that hired guard Ernesto Mijares (190-G-76). In another match, Alcaldia de Tenjo took down Norte de Santander, 79-74, in a game in which Venezuelans Eduardo Torres (195-F-81) and Juan Manaure (190-G-79) played for the side coach by Puerto Ricans Julio Toro and Ramon Melendez .

Torres and Romero with double figures as Udine denies Rieti in Memorial San Vito - by Francisco Vega
Barquisimeto, Venezuela.- Oscar Torres (195-F/G-76) netted 16 points and Hector Romero (202-F-80) added 10, as Snaidero Udine defeated Solsonica Rieti, 80-72, in a semifinal match of the exhibition tournament called Memorial San Vito, to advance to the final game against Benetton Treviso, team that defeated Scavolini Spar Pesaro in the other SF game.

Torres scored four two-point shots, two three-pointers and two free-throws. Romero netted four two-pointers and a couple of free-throws. Rashad Anderson (195-G/F-83) was the best scorer for Udine with 23 points, including five long distance shots. Folarin Campbell (193-G/F-86) scored 15 points for Rieti.



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Women News

*****************************************************
  AUSTRALIA - Women  


WNBL Fiesta Pre-Season Tournament - by Eurobasket News

Sydney Uni Flames demonstrated pretty good performance at the WNBL Fiesta Pre-Season Tournament.

The Flames beat AIS 78-65 mostly owing to Sally Potocki's (178-G-89) 16 points. Alicia Poto (166-G-78) followed with 11 while Rachel Watman (178-G-86) had the same digits. AIS got 12 points from Stephanie Cumming.
Sydney Uni Flames suffered tight defeat 81-83 vs Canberra Capitals in the second game. Michelle Musselwhite (176-G/F-82) paced the Capitals to victory netting 19 points. Natalie Hurst (163-G-83) also shined adding one points less. Eva Afeaki (183-G-84) drained 28 points for the loosing side.
In the last game Sydney Uni Flames smashed Logan Thunder 87-49. Alicia Poto (166-G-78) was unstoppable pouring in 25 points for her team. Eva Afeaki and Rachel Watman had 13 points each.
Logan Thunder faced with another defeat, this time against AIS 59-61. Kate Gaze (172-G-90) and Bree Farley led AIS to win scoring 11 apiece. Abbott had 22 for Thunder.
Third defeat Logan Thunder suffered against Canberra Capitals 68-73. Abby Bishop (189-C-88) was the key player for the winners scoring 18 points. Sarah Graham (-G-89) added 23 points for Logan Thunder.

It is important to be mentioned that Thunder participated on this tournament having only 8 players. Namely, Mikaela Dombkins (back, 1 week), Kristen Veal (knee, 1 week), Cassie Smith (knee, 4 - 8 weeks) were not able to help their teammates due to above mentioned injuries. Brittany Davis supposed to play on this tournament but she needed surgery (wisdom teeth).



*****************************************************
  BARBADOS - Women  


Cavs draw first blood - by Justin Marville
SLOWED BY ILLNESS all season, Cavaliers forward/centre Wanda Agard-Belgrave has been constantly hearing the reports about her sudden demise.

Unwillingly, the Bulls were the first ones to find out how greatly exaggerated those reports are.

The former national player combined with long-time frontcourt mate Astrid Alleyne for 48 points as the Station Hill Cavaliers defeated heated rivals George Harris Electrical Clapham Bulls 72-60 on Thursday at the Wildey Gym to take a crucial 1-0 series lead in the BABA Womens Basketball League Finals.

Heading into Game 1, Agard-Belgraves supposed demise wasnt the only one in the rumour mill as it has been widely suggested that the lady Cavs couldnt win another crown without overseas-based professional forward Jamila Griffith in the line-up.

Especially playing against a determined Bulls side who comfortably brushed aside the Challengers in the semi-finals - those same Challengers who have beaten the Cavs three times in the last two seasons.

And the whispers of Station Hills anticipated fall quickly turned into contentions of a changing of the guard when the defending champs fell behind early in the first quarter after struggling to cope with the Bulls stringent interior defence.

But Clapham failed to take advantage of their opponents initial offensive woes, especially after national combo guard Sade Clarke - their primary ball-handler - went to the bench for an early rest.

Trailing 12-8, the Cavs responded by closing out the quarter on a 11-4 run to take a 19-16 lead, having being forced to make their outside shots count as the Bulls took away the vaunted inside duo of Alleyne and Agard-Belgrave.

However, as the game went on Clapham found it increasingly difficult to contain Station Hills twin towers, especially on the offensive glass where the pair began to make their living off second chance points.

Led by Alleynes 12 second quarter points, the Cavaliers opened up a substantial 42-28 half-time advantage as Claphams national duo of Clarke and Shakira Shorey struggled mightily from the field.

But those offensive woes disappeared at the onset of the second half with the Bulls playing their suited up-tempo style of play, getting out in transition by forcing turnovers through a well employed half court trap.

This led to Clapham reducing the deficit to single digits within a matter of minutes of the games resumption, prompting the defending league champs to counter with defensive pressure of their own.

It would work to good effect as backup point guard Tamisha Flatts got a couple of uncontested baskets by forcing turnovers of her own as Station Hill threatened to re-open a substantial lead.

However, Clapham was back at it again, ending the Cavs brief run by creating turnovers once more through the defensive efforts of Nadia-Rose Hinds, Ruth Gill and Marion Johnson.

Pulling within seven points, 54-47, at the end of the third quarter, the Bulls kept the momentum through the early goings of the fourth as a Clapham fourth quarter comeback appeared just defensive stops away.

But those stops would never come.

Agard-Belgrave and Alleyne went on to score the sides last 11 points, eight of which spurred a game clinching 8-2 run as the Bulls needlessly threw away the ball on five consecutive possessions to put an end to their rally.

Alleyne and Agard-Belgrave both finished with game highs of 24 points while Flatts chipped in with 16.

For the Bulls, Shorey top scored with 12 points, Clarke had 11 and Laurel Browne added a further 10 points.

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  BULGARIA - Women  


Montana 2003 signs Ivelina Vrancheva, Lukoil Neftochimick inks young prospect - by Eurobasket News
Montana 2003 continued with signings this summer. After few important acquisitions for 08/09, Montana inked another one. It is Ivelina Vrancheva (175-G-82, agency: Ronsport), ex member of Bulgarian National Team. 25-year old point guard spent last season in Hungarian team Seviep Szeged. She had 24 appearances in Hungarian best division adding 9.7 ppg and 3.4 apg. Vrancheva also played 8 games in FIBA Erocup averaging 8.9 ppg and 4.3 apg. At the end of the season she was named All-Hungarian league 1st Team. In 06/07 she played for Israeli team Hapoel Haifa/Motzkin ending domestic championship as the best assistant with 7.1 apg. At the same time she had 13.5 ppg and 6.2 rpg in 17 games. Before Hapoel, Vrancheva was a member of Turkish Burhaniye where she also had pretty god performance. Vrancheva has experience from Spain as well as from NCAA (Florida International University).

Lukoil Neftochimick also added one more acquisition to its roster. It is Hristina Gerdzhikova (183-F-90), who played this summer with U18 Bulgaria on U18 European Championship in Slovakia. He appeared four times averaging 6.3 ppg. Gerdzhikova spent last season in Dunav Ekont but without any important record. Young Bulgarian prospect had just 1.7 ppg and 1.5 rpg in 20 games. She spent on the court 8.4 minutes per game.

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  CZECH REPUBLIC - Women  


New faces in Lokomotiva Karlovy Vary - by Eurobasket News
Irena Borecka played last season in Hungarian team Seat Foton Gyor. She appeared 6 times in FIBA EuroCup adding 8.8 ppg and 2.7 rpg. On season 06/07 Borecka was a member of another Hungarian team DKSK Miskolc. For 25 games in Hungarian top division she averaged 10 ppg, 2.5 rpg, 2 apg and 2.6 spg. Her team reached the semifinal of Hungarian National Cup. Borecka played for Czech National Team on European Championship in Turkey in 2005 as well as on World Championship in Sao Paulo a year later. In 2003 he won the Silver medal with the Czechs on Eurobasket 2003. In Czech Republic Borecka used to play for Loko Trutnov and Ruzomberok.
Jana Houdkova returned to Karlovy Vary after one and a half seasons in Sokol VCP Hradec Kralove. She played for Karlovy Vary from 2004 until 2007. Houdkova played for U20 Czech Republic on European Championship in Bulgaria last summer. She had 6 appearances averaging 4.8 ppg, 3.3 rpg and 3 apg.

Young prospect Alena Hanusova will play next season in senior team of Karlovy Vary. She played this summer with U16 National Team on European Championship adding 5 ppg and 4 rpg in 8 games.

The team also promoted Sandra Bartova from junior to senior team.

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  EUROPEAN CHAMPIONSHIPS - Women  


Division B. Day 4 results - by Eurobasket News
Group A
Ireland - Iceland 68:59

Irish National Team secured a tough win over visiting Iceland to remain to hopeful about their chances in the Division A spot hunt. They improved to 3-1 record in Group A, while the loss dropped Iceland to 1-3.
The teams entered the game cautiously with neither side rushing the things. However 5 points from Niamh Dwyer (176-G-82, college: Monmouth) allowed the hosts to pile up a 24:18 lead after ten minutes of action. The visitors however kept it close as their main weapon started to work. Three-pointers from Petrunella Skuladottir and Kristrun Sigurjonsdottir (178-F-85) drew things level at 28. Soon a 6:1 run from Iceland put them in charge 38:34. They secured a 40:37 advantage at halftime. Palina Gunnlaugsdottir (170-G-87) opened the third frame with a treble to open a 6-point lead for Iceland. However the home team found the way to recover and Michelle Aspell (168-G) and Moran closed the period with 5 straight points to propel Ireland to a 55:52 advantage. Michelle Fahy (-82) and Clancy ignited an 8:0 rally from Ireland midway through the fourth quarter and the hosts cleared off to a 10-point distance. Iceland failed to come any closer and lost the game. Moran finished with 17 points and 8 rebounds for Ireland. Michelle Aspell and Michelle Fahy added 12 points apiece for the winners. Palina Gunnlaugsdottir answered with 15 points for Iceland. Helena Sverrisdottir (185-G-88) delivered 12 points and 9 rebounds in defeat.

Ireland: Sarah Moran 17, Michelle Aspell 12, Michelle Fahy 12
Iceland: Palina Gunnlaugsdottir 15, Helena Sverrisdottir 12



Netherlands - Switzerland 83:46
The Dutch National Team handled Switzerland in La Almere to improve to 3-1 record in EuroBasket Division B contest. They are now one win away from Montenegro in Group A. Netherlands also share the second spot with Ireland, both teams enjoy a 3-1 record and hope to reach the semis. Switzerland meanwhile remained winless at the bottom of the standings. Two teams of Group A and B will qualify to the semifinal stage and the winners of the semis will advance to Division A.
The hosts dominated from the beginning till the end and recorded a deserved win. Anouk Biesters (182-G/F-86) led the hosts with 19 points. Leonie Kooij (187-F-86, agency: LBM Management) added 15 points and 10 boards, while Laura Kooij (183-F-82) and Tanya Broring (177-G-84, agency: LBM Management) had 10 points apiece in the win. Karen Twehues (183-G-83, college: Cincinnati) led all scorers with 24 points, but she committed 10 turnovers down the stretch. Muller knocked down 8 points in defeat.
The home side outrebounded their opponents 54:32 and forced Swiss team to 20 turnovers. The visitors shot woeful 16% from the close range and 58% from the stripe. Netherlands answered with 44% accuracy.
The Dutch team will take on their key opponents Ireland at home on Wednesday. Swiss team will host Slovenia the same day.

Netherlands: Anouk Biesters 19, Leonie Kooij 15+10 boards, Laura Kooij 10, Tanya Broring 10
Switzerland: Karen Twehues 24, Bettina Muller 8

Slovenia - Montenegro 69:74
Montenegrin National Team remained undefeated as they posted the 5th win in EuroBasket in Division B competition yesterday. Montenegro prevailed against Slovenia 74:69 in Kranjska Gora to keep their top position in Group A. Slovenia fell to 1-3 record after the loss. Slovenia jumped to a 4:0 lead early in the game but Montenegro quickly came back to life. They crowned the opening stanza with a 13:5 run to build an 18:14 lead. Milka Bjelica (193-F-81) scored 11 points in the second frame but Maja Erkic (182-G/F-85) and Nika Baric (168-G-92) answered with 13 points for Slovenia as the hosts surged ahead for a 35:31 halftime advantage. Knezevic fueled a 13:5 run from the visitors as they grabbed a 44:40 lead midway through the third frame. Slovenia stayed close and Montenegro headed into the final period leading by just one point 52:51. Montenegro used a 10:1 surge to stretch the margin to 8 points with less than 4 minutes remaining in regulation. The three-pointer from Daliborka Jokic (185-F-81) dragged the hosts within 5 points with 36 seconds left to go but Hajdana Radunovic (192-F/C-78) and Milka Bjelica sealed the winning outcome from the charity stripe for Montenegro. Jelena Dubljevic (192-C-87) tallied 20 points and 14 boards for the winning side. Milka Bjelica had 17 points, while Hajdana Radunovic added 15 points and 8 rebounds for the winners. Daliborka Jokic answered with 17 points, 8 boards and 5 assists for Slovenia. Katarina Ristic (173-G-84) had 12 points in defeat. Slovenia visits Switzerland, while Montenegro hosts Iceland in the next round.

Slovenia: Daliborka Jokic 17, Katarina Ristic 12
Montenegro: Jelena Dubljevic 20+14 boards, Milka Bjelica 17, Hajdana Radunovic 15

Group B
Macedonia-Portugal 68:75
Portugal handed Macedonia the first loss in Division B of European Championship. The team had a road 68:75 win to improve at 3-1, while sending Macedonians to 2-1 record. Paula Muxiri (186-F/C-81, college: ODU) paced all the winners with 23 points. Freitas netted 20, while Sofia Ramalho (168-G-80) added 11. Elena Radenkovik ended up with 17 points in the losing effort. Gavriloska, Slavica Dimovska (-85) and Samardjiska all scored 13 for Macedonians.
It may sound strange but last night Skopje saw two games between Macedonia and Portugal. FYR Macedonia Men celebrated the first win in European Championship qualifier beating Portugal at home. Skopje enjoyed 85:48 victory with an easy start of the local team.
The Women Macedonian team started with 20:15 in the opening quarter. Elena Radenkovik gave her team 28:21 later in the second. Portugal however was better at the end of the half producing 11-2 run and took 32:36 at the halftime. In the third period the guests held the hosts to 5-7 points and finished the period at 51:55. Radenkovikj tied the game at 55:55 and Slavica Dimovskas three gave the hosts 64:61 lead. Portugal did not panic and answered with some good baskets to seal the win.

Macedonia: Elena Radenkovik 17, Gavriloska 13, Slavica Dimovska 13, Samardjiska 13
Portugal: Paula Muxiri 23, Freitas 20, Sofia Ramalho 11


Luxembourg - Sweden 31:73
Swedish National Team get closer to the playoff stage at the EuroBasket in Division B competition. Yesterday they secured the third straight win and remained among the leaders in Group B. The Scandinavian team thumped Luxembourg away from home. It was the third loss in a row for the hosting side. Sweden showed their ambitions early in the game. They knocked down 8 unanswered points at the start of the encounter and kept the hosts at bay throughout the quarter. The visitors piled up a 17:6 advantage at the first intermission. Luxembourg never recovered in the second term. Sweden drove confidently and secured a 29:15 lead at the interval. A 9:0 rally from Sweden early in the third quarter allowed them to open up a 20-point advantage. Luxembourg mainly relied on Nadia Mossong (183-F-86) in offense but her effort was not enough to scare Swedish side. The visitors easily kept their opponents at bay in the fourth term and secured a stunning win at the end. Louice Halvarsson (189-C-89) notched 13 points for Sweden. Frida Eldebrink (174-G-88) added 12 points, while Elin Eldebrink (174-G-88) had 11 for the winners. Nadia Mossong topscored with 20 points for Luxembourg. Jil Haentges (182-C-90) netted 6 points in the losing case.

Luxembourg: Nadia Mossong 20, Jil Haentges 6
Sweden: Louice Halvarsson 13, Frida Eldebrink 12, Elin Eldebrink 11


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  FINLAND - Women  


EUROBASKET: Turkey winning again - by Rauno Hurmalainen
EuroBasket, Division A. Qualifying Round, Group B: Turkey - Finland 76-42 (42-16). Quarters: 23-6, 19-10, 21-16, 13-10. Turkey scored in 20 minutes as many points as Finland in the game. Finland made the 2-pointers 29,3% and 3-pointers 17,6%. Esmeral Tuncluer (175-G-80) led Turkey with 11 pts in 22 minutes. Finland had only one player in double pts: Niina Laaksonen (185-F/C-85) 14 pts. Heta Korpivaara (187-G/F-84, college: Seton Hall) grabbed 10 rbs.
Italy - Bosnia and Herzegovina 75-49 (41-21). Quarters: 14-13, 27-8, 20-23, 14-5. I: Kathrin Ress (193-F-85, college: Boston Coll.) 19. B&H: Biljana Savic (190-C-83) 14.
Next games: 10.9. Finland - Poland, Turkey - Bosnia and Herzegovina.

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  FYR MACEDONIA - Women  


Portugal steals the vicotry from Macedonians - by Eurobasket News
Macedonia-Portugal 68:75

Portugal handed Macedonia the first loss in Division B of European Championship. The team had a road 68:75 win to improve at 3-1, while sending Macedonians to 2-1 record. Paula Muxiri (186-F/C-81, college: ODU) paced all the winners with 23 points. Freitas netted 20, while Sofia Ramalho (168-G-80) added 11. Elena Radenkovik ended up with 17 points in the losing effort. Gavriloska, Slavica Dimovska (-85) and Samardjiska all scored 13 for Macedonians.
It may sound strange but last night Skopje saw two games between Macedonia and Portugal. FYR Macedonia Men celebrated the first win in European Championship qualifier beating Portugal at home. Skopje enjoyed 85:48 victory with an easy start of the local team.
The Women Macedonian team started with 20:15 in the opening quarter. Elena Radenkovik gave her team 28:21 later in the second. Portugal however was better at the end of the half producing 11-2 run and took 32:36 at the halftime. In the third period the guests held the hosts to 5-7 points and finished the period at 51:55. Radenkovikj tied the game at 55:55 and Slavica Dimovskas three gave the hosts 64:61 lead. Portugal did not panic and answered with some good baskets to seal the win.

Macedonia: Elena Radenkovik 17, Gavriloska 13, Slavica Dimovska 13, Samardjiska 13
Portugal: Paula Muxiri 23, Freitas 20, Sofia Ramalho 11

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  GERMANY - Women  


WNBA approved George an Packer imports in Herne - by Cornelius Damm
Miracles in West Germany: It seems as Herner TC has found a 'cash cow'. Otherwise the clubs 'Cinderella Story' is not explainable. Finishing last in 1.DBBL in 2007/08, winning only 3 out of 20 games and only staying in the league due to a wildcard spot, Herner TC made some significant moves this summer, to become a serious Play Off contester. With Teiosha George and Marscilla Packer the club landed foreigner number five and number six for the upcoming season, starting in less than three weeks on (Sept. 27th).

Teiosha George (193-F/C-85) just graduated from Pepperdine University, where she finished seventh in total blocked shots (70), 10th in free throws made (243) and 10th in rebounds (662) over her four year span. The athletic PF/C averaged 8.9 PPG and 6.1 RPG in 18.8 minutes on the court. Her fine size and athleticism made her a WNBA Draft prospect. Although not getting picked eventually in the Draft 2008, George still was invited to a Phoenix Mercury camp in April 2008. She didnt make the team and so took the challenge to play overseas. At Pepperdines official webpage it is said that Goerges favorite thing about basketball is that 'its a contact and aggressive sport'. If she really brought this attitude with her to Germany, there is hardly any doubt about her success over here. A little personal side note: George is a cousin of former Duke standout and afterwards Chicago Bulls player Chris Duhon.

Marscilla Packer also a college graduate of 2008 comes to Germany as one of NCAA's best 3-point shooters. A player who has mastered coming off ball screens, the SG/PG has the ability to change a game at every minute, as she enjoys the reputation of a clutch shooter. She finished her senior year with 15.2 PPG shooting .431 from the field, including .407 from behind the arc (80/197) and .864 from the foul line. She also added 3.1 RPG and 3.4 APG. At Ohio State, where she won four consecutive Big Ten Conference Championships during her college career, Marscilla Packer is a member of the winningest senior class in program history with 109 wins out of 126 games. Her amazing shooting ability helped her to gain a spot on the USA Under-20 team that won the gold medal at 2006 FIBA Americas U20 Championship for Women in Mexico City. Packer finished the 5-game event with a team-best scoring average of 13.6 PPG and made 20-of-29 attempts (.689) from 3-point range. She connected on 61 percent of her field goal attempts, hitting 23-of-38 tries. A summer later she represented her country again, as she helped the Americans to another Gold Medal in Moscow at the 2007 FIBA U21 Championship for Women. Packer was drafted by Phoenix Mercury at No. 41 in the third round of the 2008 WNBA Draft but did not survive the teams final cut. With Packer, Katarina Flasarova and Belarus National Team PG Nadeya Drozd Herner TC will have one of the leagues finest back court line-ups.

Anna Goerg to Marburg - by Cornelius Damm
With Anna-Christine Gorg (190-F-87) another top German inside player will join Marburg. After an unpleasant 2007/08 season where the champion of 2003 BC Marburg only finished as seventh in the league ending the season quickly with two Play Off losses to later championship runner-up Saarlouis, the team of head coach Aleksandra Kojic is looking into a much brighter future. One main reason for the unfortunate performance of her team in 2007/08 was the poor inside play of the team. Not much of a surprise did the team acquire over the summer nothing but big girls to get the job done. At first they got their hands on former German U20 National Players Karolin Holtz (188-C-86) and Mirijam Unger (193-C/F-88). Then the signing of UCLA power forward Amanda Livingston (185-F-84, agency: Rasmussen Services) was announced. But if that would have not been enough the Blue Dolphins now proudly announced the signing of Anna-Christine Goerg.

The 2007/08 Eurobasket.com German DBBL All-Domestic Players Team Selection is perhaps the German youngster on the inside positions with the most talent. Goerg followed her Coach Marc Kopp from second league club SC Rist Wedel to Eurocup team BG Dorsten where she developed into a top German Prospect already matching up with Europes best teams in the Eurocup despite her tender age of 18 years back then. In her last Eurocup season with Dorsten in 2006/07 she scored 8.4 PPG and grabbed 4.3 RPG in 28.4 minutes per game on the court. Of course Goerg also played in every German Youth National Team as a major contributor. At her last international stage so far Goerg competed in the U20 European Championship in 2007 averaging 15.0 PPG and 10.8 RPG in 30.4 minutes per game on the court before being kicked out of the team the night before the final game of Germany against Russia by none other than Marburg head coach Aleksandra Kojic who served as the U20 head coach back then! This has been the reason why Anna Goerg did not suit up immediately for Marburg after enrolling at the university in Giessen close to Marburg last year but played for Herner TC in 1. DBBL this past season where she averaged 13.6 PPG and 7.4 RPG. Now the old dispute seems to be settled and so the way to Marburg was paved for Anna Goerg.

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  GREECE - Women  


Karagiorgos in Aris Holargos - by Chris Mammides
A great transfer from the president of Aris Holargos and the coaching team of Charalambos Papadakis , the American/Greek forward Panagiota Karagiorgos (190-F-84, college: Concordia (NY)) is officially the new player of Aris Holargos. The Holargos team after the two great American foreigners, is adding now more power in the paint as Panagiota Karagiorgos has an amazing 'influence' in the rebounding area where she can play easily in both forward positions as she can shot and rebound with the same ease. Panagiota Karagiorgos's attend in the Greek league is for the very first time as her only experience in the European leagues was just a quick pass from the Spanish league.
Eurobasket.com, wishes to the Greek American player all the best in her new duties and very soon to wear the Hellenic jersey of the NT like Soulis.

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  HOLLAND - Women  


Netherlands ease past Switzerland at home - by Eurobasket News
Netherlands - Switzerland 83:46

The Dutch National Team handled Switzerland in La Almere to improve to 3-1 record in EuroBasket Division B contest. They are now one win away from Montenegro in Group A. Netherlands also share the second spot with Ireland, both teams enjoy a 3-1 record and hope to reach the semis. Switzerland meanwhile remained winless at the bottom of the standings. Two teams of Group A and B will qualify to the semifinal stage and the winners of the semis will advance to Division A.
The hosts dominated from the beginning till the end and recorded a deserved win. Anouk Biesters (182-G/F-86) led the hosts with 19 points. Leonie Kooij (187-F-86, agency: LBM Management) added 15 points and 10 boards, while Laura Kooij (183-F-82) and Tanya Broring (177-G-84, agency: LBM Management) had 10 points apiece in the win. Karen Twehues (183-G-83, college: Cincinnati) led all scorers with 24 points, but she committed 10 turnovers down the stretch. Muller knocked down 8 points in defeat.
The home side outrebounded their opponents 54:32 and forced Swiss team to 20 turnovers. The visitors shot woeful 16% from the close range and 58% from the stripe. Netherlands answered with 44% accuracy.
The Dutch team will take on their key opponents Ireland at home on Wednesday. Swiss team will host Slovenia the same day.

Netherlands: Anouk Biesters 19, Leonie Kooij 15+10 boards, Laura Kooij 10, Tanya Broring 10
Switzerland: Karen Twehues 24, Bettina Muller 8

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  LATVIA - Women  


Stats Leaders - Women
LSBL Stats Leaders
Points Per Game
Tillis (TTT) 20.0
Ozolina (Rapa) 19.7
Okonkvo (Cesis) 19.3
Niedola (Liepaja) 18.7
Malkevica (Rapa) 17.2
Rebounds Per Game
Niedola (Liepaja) 11.7
Vitola (Riga) 10.3
Okonkvo (Cesis) 10.2
Crockett (Cesis) 10.1
A.Eglite (Rapa) 9.5
Assists Per Game
Ose-Hlebovicka (Kl.) 5.9
Derevjanik (Cesis) 5.1
Eibele (Avantis) 4.7
Z.Eglite (TTT) 3.9
Kackane (Rapa) 3.3
Steals Per Game
Okonkvo (Cesis) 3.5
Z.Eglite (TTT) 3.2
Babkina (TTT) 3.0
Blocks Per Game
Vitola (Riga) 3.6
Gailite (TTT/Rapa) 1.9
Kityzina (TTT) 1.7
Ranking
Okonkvo (Cesis) 27.4
Niedola (Liepaja) 24.1
Crockett (Cesis) 22.5


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  LUXEMBOURG - Women  


Sweden roll past hapless Luxembourg - by Eurobasket News
Luxembourg - Sweden 31:73

Swedish National Team get closer to the playoff stage at the EuroBasket in Division B competition. Yesterday they secured the third straight win and remained among the leaders in Group B. The Scandinavian team thumped Luxembourg away from home. It was the third loss in a row for the hosting side. Sweden showed their ambitions early in the game. They knocked down 8 unanswered points at the start of the encounter and kept the hosts at bay throughout the quarter. The visitors piled up a 17:6 advantage at the first intermission. Luxembourg never recovered in the second term. Sweden drove confidently and secured a 29:15 lead at the interval. A 9:0 rally from Sweden early in the third quarter allowed them to open up a 20-point advantage. Luxembourg mainly relied on Nadia Mossong (183-F-86) in offense but her effort was not enough to scare Swedish side. The visitors easily kept their opponents at bay in the fourth term and secured a stunning win at the end. Louice Halvarsson (189-C-89) notched 13 points for Sweden. Frida Eldebrink (174-G-88) added 12 points, while Elin Eldebrink (174-G-88) had 11 for the winners. Nadia Mossong topscored with 20 points for Luxembourg. Jil Haentges (182-C-90) netted 6 points in the losing case.

Luxembourg: Nadia Mossong 20, Jil Haentges 6
Sweden: Louice Halvarsson 13, Frida Eldebrink 12, Elin Eldebrink 11

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  MONTENEGRO - Women  


Jelena Dubljevic leads Montenegro past Slovenia - by Eurobasket News
Slovenia - Montenegro 69:74

Montenegrin National Team remained undefeated as they posted the 4th win in EuroBasket in Division B competition yesterday. Montenegro prevailed against Slovenia 74:69 in Kranjska Gora to keep their top position in Group A. Slovenia fell to 1-3 record after the loss. Slovenia jumped to a 4:0 lead early in the game but Montenegro quickly came back to life. They crowned the opening stanza with a 13:5 run to build an 18:14 lead. Milka Bjelica (193-F-81) scored 11 points in the second frame but Maja Erkic (182-G/F-85) and Nika Baric (168-G-92) answered with 13 points for Slovenia as the hosts surged ahead for a 35:31 halftime advantage. Knezevic fueled a 13:5 run from the visitors as they grabbed a 44:40 lead midway through the third frame. Slovenia stayed close and Montenegro headed into the final period leading by just one point 52:51. Montenegro used a 10:1 surge to stretch the margin to 8 points with less than 4 minutes remaining in regulation. The three-pointer from Daliborka Jokic (185-F-81) dragged the hosts within 5 points with 36 seconds left to go but Hajdana Radunovic (192-F/C-78) and Milka Bjelica sealed the winning outcome from the charity stripe for Montenegro. Jelena Dubljevic (192-C-87) tallied 20 points and 14 boards for the winning side. Milka Bjelica had 17 points, while Hajdana Radunovic added 15 points and 8 rebounds for the winners. Daliborka Jokic answered with 17 points, 8 boards and 5 assists for Slovenia. Katarina Ristic (173-G-84) had 12 points in defeat. Slovenia visits Switzerland, while Montenegro hosts Iceland in the next round.

Slovenia: Daliborka Jokic 17, Katarina Ristic 12
Montenegro: Jelena Dubljevic 20+14 boards, Milka Bjelica 17, Hajdana Radunovic 15

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  PORTUGAL - Women  


Portugal steals the vicotry from Macedonians - by Eurobasket News
Macedonia-Portugal 68:75

Portugal handed Macedonia the first loss in Division B of European Championship. The team had a road 68:75 win to improve at 3-1, while sending Macedonians to 2-1 record. Paula Muxiri (186-F/C-81, college: ODU) paced all the winners with 23 points. Freitas netted 20, while Sofia Ramalho (168-G-80) added 11. Elena Radenkovik ended up with 17 points in the losing effort. Gavriloska, Slavica Dimovska (-85) and Samardjiska all scored 13 for Macedonians.
It may sound strange but last night Skopje saw two games between Macedonia and Portugal. FYR Macedonia Men celebrated the first win in European Championship qualifier beating Portugal at home. Skopje enjoyed 85:48 victory with an easy start of the local team.
The Women Macedonian team started with 20:15 in the opening quarter. Elena Radenkovik gave her team 28:21 later in the second. Portugal however was better at the end of the half producing 11-2 run and took 32:36 at the halftime. In the third period the guests held the hosts to 5-7 points and finished the period at 51:55. Radenkovikj tied the game at 55:55 and Slavica Dimovskas three gave the hosts 64:61 lead. Portugal did not panic and answered with some good baskets to seal the win.

Macedonia: Elena Radenkovik 17, Gavriloska 13, Slavica Dimovska 13, Samardjiska 13
Portugal: Paula Muxiri 23, Freitas 20, Sofia Ramalho 11

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  SERBIA - Women  


Impressions after excellent victory in Greece - by Dragan Jankovski

Serbian senior National Team grabbed the second victory in Eurobasket 2009 qualifications. As Serbia's head coach Jovica Antonic said after the first game against Greece that his team will have a chance to celebrate in Athens, that really happened. At that time it seemed like 'mission impossible' but obviously Serbia's coaching staff knew the real power of their team. As a reminder, Greece celebrated in the opening round in Serbia thanks to precious experience of its players. Serbia had plus 6 before the last frame but Greeks ended the last one 16-25 for the final score 82-85.

Coach Antonic couldn't hide happiness after yesterday's game in Athens.

'We had many problems with our defense in the first half. Despite Greece scored not so big number of points, all of those were the easy ones. However, we tried to intensify defense in the second half and we done it successfully. Greeks missed many shots which made this job much easier to us. We decided to change our defense every 2 or 3 minutes resulting with big frustration by the Greeks. At the middle of the last stanza we managed to reach plus 8 after what my players showed they can play mature when it is the most important. I have to say that referees had few very strange decisions trying to help Greece but we succeeded to stay calm and keep our advantage until the end', said Jovica Antonic.

The next game Serbia will play on Wednesday against Belgium. As it was in the first two, this one will also be played in city of Nis.



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  SLOVENIA - Women  


Jelena Dubljevic leads Montenegro past Slovenia - by Eurobasket News
Slovenia - Montenegro 69:74

Montenegrin National Team remained undefeated as they posted the 4th win in EuroBasket in Division B competition yesterday. Montenegro prevailed against Slovenia 74:69 in Kranjska Gora to keep their top position in Group A. Slovenia fell to 1-3 record after the loss. Slovenia jumped to a 4:0 lead early in the game but Montenegro quickly came back to life. They crowned the opening stanza with a 13:5 run to build an 18:14 lead. Milka Bjelica (193-F-81) scored 11 points in the second frame but Maja Erkic (182-G/F-85) and Nika Baric (168-G-92) answered with 13 points for Slovenia as the hosts surged ahead for a 35:31 halftime advantage. Knezevic fueled a 13:5 run from the visitors as they grabbed a 44:40 lead midway through the third frame. Slovenia stayed close and Montenegro headed into the final period leading by just one point 52:51. Montenegro used a 10:1 surge to stretch the margin to 8 points with less than 4 minutes remaining in regulation. The three-pointer from Daliborka Jokic (185-F-81) dragged the hosts within 5 points with 36 seconds left to go but Hajdana Radunovic (192-F/C-78) and Milka Bjelica sealed the winning outcome from the charity stripe for Montenegro. Jelena Dubljevic (192-C-87) tallied 20 points and 14 boards for the winning side. Milka Bjelica had 17 points, while Hajdana Radunovic added 15 points and 8 rebounds for the winners. Daliborka Jokic answered with 17 points, 8 boards and 5 assists for Slovenia. Katarina Ristic (173-G-84) had 12 points in defeat. Slovenia visits Switzerland, while Montenegro hosts Iceland in the next round.

Slovenia: Daliborka Jokic 17, Katarina Ristic 12
Montenegro: Jelena Dubljevic 20+14 boards, Milka Bjelica 17, Hajdana Radunovic 15

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  SWEDEN - Women  


Sweden roll past hapless Luxembourg - by Eurobasket News
Luxembourg - Sweden 31:73

Swedish National Team get closer to the playoff stage at the EuroBasket in Division B competition. Yesterday they secured the third straight win and remained among the leaders in Group B. The Scandinavian team thumped Luxembourg away from home. It was the third loss in a row for the hosting side. Sweden showed their ambitions early in the game. They knocked down 8 unanswered points at the start of the encounter and kept the hosts at bay throughout the quarter. The visitors piled up a 17:6 advantage at the first intermission. Luxembourg never recovered in the second term. Sweden drove confidently and secured a 29:15 lead at the interval. A 9:0 rally from Sweden early in the third quarter allowed them to open up a 20-point advantage. Luxembourg mainly relied on Nadia Mossong (183-F-86) in offense but her effort was not enough to scare Swedish side. The visitors easily kept their opponents at bay in the fourth term and secured a stunning win at the end. Louice Halvarsson (189-C-89) notched 13 points for Sweden. Frida Eldebrink (174-G-88) added 12 points, while Elin Eldebrink (174-G-88) had 11 for the winners. Nadia Mossong topscored with 20 points for Luxembourg. Jil Haentges (182-C-90) netted 6 points in the losing case.

Luxembourg: Nadia Mossong 20, Jil Haentges 6
Sweden: Louice Halvarsson 13, Frida Eldebrink 12, Elin Eldebrink 11

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  SWITZERLAND - Women  


Netherlands ease past Switzerland at home - by Eurobasket News
Netherlands - Switzerland 83:46

The Dutch National Team handled Switzerland in La Almere to improve to 3-1 record in EuroBasket Division B contest. They are now one win away from Montenegro in Group A. Netherlands also share the second spot with Ireland, both teams enjoy a 3-1 record and hope to reach the semis. Switzerland meanwhile remained winless at the bottom of the standings. Two teams of Group A and B will qualify to the semifinal stage and the winners of the semis will advance to Division A.
The hosts dominated from the beginning till the end and recorded a deserved win. Anouk Biesters (182-G/F-86) led the hosts with 19 points. Leonie Kooij (187-F-86, agency: LBM Management) added 15 points and 10 boards, while Laura Kooij (183-F-82) and Tanya Broring (177-G-84, agency: LBM Management) had 10 points apiece in the win. Karen Twehues (183-G-83, college: Cincinnati) led all scorers with 24 points, but she committed 10 turnovers down the stretch. Muller knocked down 8 points in defeat.
The home side outrebounded their opponents 54:32 and forced Swiss team to 20 turnovers. The visitors shot woeful 16% from the close range and 58% from the stripe. Netherlands answered with 44% accuracy.
The Dutch team will take on their key opponents Ireland at home on Wednesday. Swiss team will host Slovenia the same day.

Netherlands: Anouk Biesters 19, Leonie Kooij 15+10 boards, Laura Kooij 10, Tanya Broring 10
Switzerland: Karen Twehues 24, Bettina Muller 8

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  WNBA - Women  


Games recap - by Bruno Baltazar
Taj McWilliams-Franklin scored 21 points in her return to Washington, Deanna Nolan (5'11''-G/F-79, college: Georgia) added 17 points and 10 rebounds, and the Detroit Shock used a 26-11 advantage in the fourth quarter to beat the Mystics 84-69 .
Katie Smith (5'11''-G-74, college: Ohio St.) and Plenette Pierson (6'2''-F/C-81, college: Texas Tech) each scored 13 points for the Shock .

Delisha Milton-Jones (6'1''-F-74, college: Florida) had 16 points and seven rebounds to help the Los Angeles Sparks clinch a playoff berth with an 84-66 win over the slumping Houston Comets .
Candace Parker (6'4''-F/C-86, college: Tennessee) scored 12 points, Lisa Leslie (6'5''-C-72, college: USC) added 11 and Temeka Johnson (5'3''-G-82, agency: Elfus-Siegel Management (ESM), college: LSU) 10 for the Sparks .
Tina Thompson (6'2''-F-75, agency: Merit Sports, college: USC) scored 18 points and Shannon Johnson (5'7''-G-74, college: USC) added 11 for Houston.

Sue Bird (5'9''-G-80, college: Connecticut) (5'9''-G-80, college: Connecticut) scored 21 of her points in the second half to rally the Storm from 13 points down to a 96-88 victory over the Minnesota Lynx.
Tanisha Wright (5'11''-G-83, agency: LBM Management, college: Penn St.) and Swin Cash (6'2''-F-79, college: Connecticut) scored 17 points each as Seattle improved its league-best home record to 15-1. Camille Little (6'2''-F/G-85, college: N.Carolina) added 16 points and Yolanda Griffith (6'4''-C/F-70, college: Florida Atlantic) had 11.
Seimone Augustus (6'1''-G-84, college: LSU) had 26 points to lead Minnesota . Anna DeForge (5'10''-G-76, college: Nebraska) scored 17 points and Lindsey Harding (5'8''-G-84, college: Duke) had 11 points and 10 assists for the Lynx.

Phoenix claim the third win in a row - by Eurobasket News
The Phoenix Mercury avoided elimination from the playoff race with a 99:74 victory over the Houston Comets. The Mercury now moved two games away from the 4th-placed Sacramento, while Houston remained three games away from the playoff zone. The Minnesota Lynx fell off the competition. Diana Taurasi (6'0''-G-82, college: Connecticut) fired 33 points to propel the WNBA defending champions to the vital win yesterday. Mistie Williams (6'3''-C-83, college: Duke) answered with career-high 17 points for the Comets. The visitors led by 7 points after the opening quarter but Phoenix quickly turned the deficit into a 3-point advantage at halftime. The hosts never looked back in the second half.
The San Antonio Silver Stars meanwhile secured their 21st win in the season beating the Eastern leading Connecticut Sun 85:73 away from home. Rebecca Hammon (5'6''-G-77, college: Colorado St.) delivered 24 points to lift the Silver Stars to the top spot in the West. The visitors also snapped a 7-game winning streak of Connecticut. Sophia Young (6'1''-F-83, college: Baylor) secured 22 points and 10 rebounds for the winners. Asjha Jones (6'2''-F-80, college: Connecticut) had 22 points and 9 rebounds for the Sun. Tamika Whitmore notched 17 points in defeat.
The Sacramento Monarchs remained in the best position for grabbing the fourth ticket to the playoffs in the West as they held off the Minnesota Lynx 78:71 at home. Nicole Powell (6'2''-G/F-82, college: Stanford) led the charge with 22 points, 7 rebounds and 4 assists. Kara Lawson (5'8''-G-81, college: Tennessee) added 17 points in the win. Charde Houston answered with 19 points for the Lynx as they got eliminated from the postseason hunt.

Ebony Hoffman one of WNBA's most improved - by Eurobasket News
With the Indiana Fever hopeful of clinching its fourth consecutive playoff berth in the coming week, fifth-year power forward Ebony Hoffman (6'2''-C/F-82, college: USC) continues to solidify her status as the leading candidate as the WNBA's Most Improved Player. She has been at the core of Indiana's success the past four seasons, and in 2008 - a breakout year for the former first-round draft pick - she is currently fourth in the WNBA in rebounding.

Married last October and trimmer by about 20 pounds, Hoffman has asserted herself as a night-in, night-out go-to player for the Fever.

She has diversified her offensive game with greater shooting range on the perimeter and a wider array of scoring moves in the post. The Los Angeles native has assumed a full-time role in the Fever's power forward position, and ranks fourth in the WNBA in rebounds per game. Besides an obvious scoring and rebounding increase, she has taken control of all phases of her game and become Indiana's most consistent player throughout this season.

Courtesy of WNBA

WNBA names Tom Garrity COO of Houston Comets - by Eurobasket News
The Women's National Basketball Association (WNBA) announced today that Tom Garrity has been named Chief Operating Officer of the league's Houston Comets franchise, effective September 3. In this role, Garrity will be responsible for overseeing the club's day-to-day business operations and will report to the WNBA league office, which is operating the club while new ownership is sought.

'Tom's extensive knowledge of the Houston market, his proven track record and deep appreciation for the team's ties to the community will be a significant factor in reestablishing the Comets rich traditions,' said WNBA President Donna Orender. '

Garrity formed Quan Sports Marketing earlier this month after a highly successful stint with Minnesota Sports and Entertainment where he most recently served as Vice President of Corporate Sales and Service for the National Hockey League's Minnesota Wild and also as President of both the Houston Aeros of the American Hockey League and Minnesota Swarm of the National Lacrosse League. In the latter role, Garrity earned the NLL's executive of the year honors in 2008.

A native of Prairie du Chien, Wisc., who first joined the Aeros' operation in July, 2003, engineered a turnaround that saw the club increase its attendance in each of five consecutive seasons. In that span, the Aeros surged to rank among the top five in attendance in the AHL behind Garrity's unique and creative marketing campaigns. He had similar success with the Swarm, spearheading a double-digit percentage growth in attendance in 2006-07. Prior to joining MSE, Garrity spent four seasons with the AHL's Cincinnati Mighty Ducks, including two as president, during which time the club set franchise records for sponsorships, season tickets and group sales. Garrity's 15-year career in professional sports also includes stints with the NHL's Minnesota North Stars and Dallas Stars, the National Basketball Association's Minnesota Timberwolves, Major League Soccer's San Jose Clash and at the collegiate level with the University of Minnesota.

Courtesy of WNBA

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