EUROBASKET NEWS REPORT - 9/9/2008

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Men News

*****************************************************
  ABA   


South Texas Showboats to hold last tryouts - by Eurobasket News
The ABA South Texas Showboats will hold their last set of walk-on tryouts on Friday, September 26th from 9pm-midnight. 'We are holding these tryouts because we believe that even with the roster we have right now, we still have room for some real talent at the PG/SG-SF/PM spots,' said head coach Ben Mireles. 'We only have 11 guaranteed spots on this team as of right now and we are looking for players that know the game, know the responsibilities, an know the commitment. I only want players that are here to be basketball players on and off the court.'
The Showboats will carry a fifteen man active roster and a five man practice squad (20 players). No traveling team. Just one team. The fee is $75 at the door, $50 for early registration. For more information, email coachb_showboats08@yahoo.com or call 210 897 0379 (for early registration) or visit www.abalive.com.

Courtesy of ABA

Modesto Bearcats fill executive roster - by Eurobasket News
Before he puts a team on the court, ABA Modesto Bearcats' team owner T.J. Walker is working diligently to surround himself with a team that can make his vision a success. Enter father and trusted basketball brain T.J. Walker Sr. as Director of Basketball Operations.

While most count their experience in years, Walker Sr. brings decades of experience to his position as he prepares to build the inaugural Modesto team. He has spent a great deal of his adult life teaching basketball fundamentals at the high school level, and he now looks forward to joining his son in putting a quality product on the court to represent the city of Modesto.

For another addition to the staff, Walker Jr. looked outside of the family to bring in Reggie Rucker as Marketing Director for the team. 'I'm very impressed,' Walker stated of the work Rucker has done to help community an identity for the team that the community can embrace. 'I like to keep things close knit,' Walker said, 'so it has been great to have him come on and be on the same page as us immediately.'

The team has a lot of work that remains in front of them. They are constantly working the phones looking for community partnerships to join as sponsors with the team. Despite the challenges presented by the difficult economy, they clearly aren't shrinking from the challenges or shying away from the work. As Walker Sr. says, 'When the phones don't work, the feet have to!'

For more information regarding the Modesto Bearcats that begin play in December, email info@modestobearcasts.com or call 209 872 0259 or visit www.modestobearcats.com or www.abalive.com.

Courtesy of ABA

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  AUSTRALIA   


Tigers fined by NBL - by Eurobasket News
The National Basketball League has fined the Melbourne Tigers team $4,000 for playing import Ebi Ere (195-G/F-81, college: Oklahoma) in a pre-season game without an international clearance.

Ere suited up for the Tigers in their 125-106 pre-season win over the Townsville Crocodiles at the Mackay Basketball Stadium in Queensland on Saturday 6 September.

NBL interim Chief Executive Officer Chuck Harmison said that Ere played without obtaining the necessary Foreign Player Licence and International Clearance, and as a result the Tigers had been fined by the League.

Its a fairly basic rule that all import players need to get the necessary clearances from FIBA before playing for their new team, and unfortunately the Tigers failed to obtain these on Eres behalf before playing him on Saturday night, said Harmison. As a result, we were left with no alternative other than to impose sanctions against the Tigers.

As the infraction occurred in a pre-season game, we felt a fine was appropriate in this instance, Harmison added. If this had been a regular season game, they would potentially have faced the loss of competition points as well as a significantly larger fine, so this is a serious breach on their behalf.

Courtesy of www.nbl.com.au

Sydney sweep exhibition series against Toyota Alvark - by Eurobasket News
The Sydney Spirit secured the third straight win over the visiting Toyota Alvark 113:88 to sweep the friendly series. Julian Khazzouh (209-C-86) led the Australian team with 21 points, 23 boards and 6 blocks. Liam Rush (198-F/G-82, agency: Interperformances) added 21 points and Matt Gruber had 16 points for the winners. Charles O'Bannon tallied 30 points and 11 rebounds for the Japanese team. Louis Campbell (190-G-79, agency: Pro One Sports, college: Buffalo) had 20 points in defeat. The Sydney Spirit will tip off their NBL campaign on September 14 against the defending champions Melbourne Tigers.
The South Dragons meanwhile secured their 7th straight preseason win. They held off the Adelaide 36ers 118:98 at Knox on Saturday. Nick Horvath (208-F/C-81, college: Duke) contributed 29 points to propel the South Dragons to another impressive victory. Nathan Herbert (192-F-84) added 27 points for the winners. The South Dragons opened the game with a 14:0 rally and dominated the first period. The Dragons never loosened the grip and enjoyed a 60:49 advantage at halftime. The Dragons went on a 23:10 run in the third quarter and never looked back late in the game. Joe Ingles notched 16 points, while Rhys Carter dropped 15 points in the win. Luke Schenscher (215-C-82, agency: Priority Sports, college: Georgia Tech) knocked down 19 points in the losing case.

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  BRAZIL   


U.S. trumps Brazil in wheelchair basketball - by Eurobasket News
Paul Schulte scored 18 out of his 20 points in the first half, helping U.S. crush Brazil 87-41 to win its second pool B match in the men's wheelchair basketball of the Beijing Paralympics at the USTB Gymnasium on Monday.

Silver medallist in Sydney 2000 Schulte was perfect beyond the arc scoring all of his four attemps before the main break as the United States rallied to a 39-23 win.

Jeff Glasbrenner had 13 points and Joe Chambers added 11 points for the United States.

'You know, we may be good but there are many good teams here. We just have to be ready every single day. You can't be over-confident,' said Schulte, the guard of U.S. team.

'We were able to beat them by a large margin. But to other teams I would give a warning about Brazil. They are an experienced team who shouldn't be taken lightly.'

'If we allow them to get too hot, it's then a lot harder to stop them. So we had to get our lead early in the first quarter to keep them from getting too hot.'

On the contrary, Brazil's top players, Erick Silva and Irio Nunes combined for only nine points in the half after combining for 49 points on Sunday's match against Australia.

The Brazilians suffered from their opponent's full-court defensive pressure, led by Matt Scott, the best defender in the world, and the South Americans struggled to take open shots, especially in the third quarter, when they stayed scoreless during the first nine minutes.

Paul Jackson, one of the United States' assistant coaches, was showing different numbers to the players to change their defence's strategy on every Brazil's attack.

The U.S. took profit from their steals and defensive rebounds to score 22 points from turnovers.

'That was exciting. Anytime you put an international team together it's good. We have a lot of offence and our team is known for defence and we showed it,' said U.S. forward Scott.

'We came out with a lot of focus and high energy. I think though we settled too much in the second quarter, but we picked it back up in the third.

'In the 2004 Athens Paralympic Games, we finished seventh and in the 2006 World Championships we took the silver. We're getting better year by year and day by day,' added he.

The U.S. team will next play Britain on their third match, while Brazil will meet Israel. Both matches will be played at the National Indoor Stadium on Tuesday.

Courtesy of www.english.cri.cn

*****************************************************
  BULGARIA   


Leven Belberov back to Rilski sportist - by Valentin Anguelov
Leven Belberov (199-F-74) will again be playing in Rilski Sportist and this will be the last transfer for the team. After he played in season 2005/2006 in Samokov then he went to Varna and played two seasons with Cherno More.

In his career Belberov has played in Linz, Queluz, Montpellier and Bulgarian teams Academic and Spartak Evroins MVR.

Despite being now 34 years old Belberov is still performing very well in Bulgarian championship. Last season he played 43 games for Cherno More averaging 12.9 points in 28.1 minutes per game. He added also 3.8 rebounds, 1.9 assists and 1.8 steals.

Today Belberov departed with his new teammates for Turkey where they will play 4 friendly games. Except him the new names in the team are Travis Peterson, Bogdan Boev, Ivan Nikolov and Dragoslav Papic.

Rilski Sportist will be one of Bulgaria's representatives in the newly formed Balkan League and will be part also of the National Basketball League in Bulgaria.

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  CANADA   


HOOPS TO HeaL CLUB BASKETBALL TOURNAMENT - by John Gary
courtesy basketball manitoba The Manitoba Magic have announced details of its annual,'Hoops to Heal,' pres-season basketball tournament which will be held OCT 10-12,2008,in Winnipeg Manitoba. The main venue will be the UNIVERSITY of Manitoba Investors Group Athletic Center. This is the 2nd Annual, Hoops To Heal Benrfit Basketball Tournament, where net proceeds will go directly to the Arthritis Society of Manitoba,participation in this event will raise funds for this debilitating disease. Arthritis is among Canadas most common chronic conditions with more than four million Canadians affected by this debiltating disease.

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  CBA   


EK Miners free agent camp attracts diverse talented group - by Eurobasket News

PIKEVILLE, KY. - Players from 14 different states and two countries participated in the East Kentucky Miners free agent camp held Saturday at the East Kentucky Expo Center. American players (many of whom have previous international experience) as well as one player from Canada showcased their talents in front of East Kentucky Miners head coach Kevin Keathley. Twenty-six players, including Miners veteran Mike Crain, participated in the free agent camp.


'Last year, we had some recognizable schools represented as well as some recognizable faces,' said East Kentucky Coach Kevin Keathley . 'This year, the talent level was higher and it was a more competitive camp. Twenty of the players we had in this year's free agent camp can play professionally. The players bought into what we were doing and it made for a great free agent camp.'

Division I programs such as USC and Pittsburgh were represented. The players ranged in height from 5-foot-5 to 7-foot-2. The East Kentucky professional basketball franchise's second free agent camp in as many years also included an NAIA All-American.

The East Kentucky Miners head coach was eager to go back and look at film from the free agent camp.

'Now, we'll go back, evaluate and break this camp down with what myself and Director of Basketball Operations Brandon Paquin saw,' Keathley commented at the conclusion of the camp. 'The evaluation process will span over the next week to 10 days. We'll look to bring four to five of the free agent camp participants back for training camp.'

The basketball hotbeds of Philadelphia, Louisville, Lexington, Detroit, Winston-Salem, Greensboro and Columbia were represented during the free agent camp.

'I was really impressed with some of the rookies,' Keathley added. 'There were also some very talented veterans in the camp. Joe Buck, a veteran player, played extremely well.'

It's business as usual for East Kentucky's professional basketball team. The Miners are busy preparing for the 2008-09 season.

'I'm excited with this being the kickoff to our active season,' Keathley added. 'From here, we go on to the CBA Draft on September 23.'

East Kentucky is gearing up for its second season in the Continental Basketball Association (CBA). The Miners posted a 26-22 regular-season record and reached the playoffs during the 2007-08 season.

Participants in the Miners free agent camp were (colleges listed in parenthesis): Eric Tyrone Brown (Mount Olive); William Belton (Morehouse); Joe Buck (USC); Damien Goodman (UNC-Pembroke); Lamont Campbell (Lambuth); Omar Waller (Texas College); Demetrius Graham (Clarion); Michael Griffin (Lander); Anthony Wilson (Jacksonville State); Justin Taylor (Georgetown College); John Patterson (Centre); Eddie Wade (N/A); Gordon Chase (Georgetown College); Phil McKnight Jr. (Salem International); Raymond Rolley (Stillman); James Tyler (N/A); Jarron Brown (Pittsburgh); Kenneth Pascley (Tiffin); Lamarr Farr (Lambuth); Darius Davis (Lambuth); Juwon Reid (Cuyahoga); Neil Rasnake (Western Carolina); Brandon Moore (George C. Wallace); Sherone Edwards (UPEI); Mike Crain (Valdosta State); Bahi Handy (Maine).

Note: This is the first in a five-part series on the East Kentucky Miners Free Agent Camp. Next up: A look at Miners veteran Mike Crain's return to the East Kentucky Expo Center.

Courtesy of CBA



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  CHILE   


Dimayor: Knox replace Lowery - by Daniel Valencia
After the zonal phase the leaders of Provincial Llanquihue decided to replace the center Raheim Lowery (201-C, agency: HM Sports Agency, college: Dowling). He played 8 games with the team with averages of 10.3 points, 15.6 rebounds, 1.9 assists and 1.6 steals in 35.6 minutes per game. To replace Lowery, the leaders of the club signed a contract with the american center Anthony Knox (202-F/C-80, agency: Global Sports Plaza, college: Pikeville). Knox played with Deportes Castro in the 06/07 season. In his two first games with Provincial Llanquihue Knox scored 30 and 14 points respectively.

Dimayor: National phase round 1 & 2 - by Daniel Valencia
The past weekend began the national phase of Dimayor 08/09. Two of the leaders (Castro and Valdivia) won both games of the weekend, remaining as the leaders of the the league. For Valdivia, the guard Elliot was the key player of the weekend scoring 25 and 26 points. For Castro, Velasquez scored 21 points in both games. Between the teams with the worst record in the first phase, Provincial Osorno won both games against Llanquihue and Ula, with Zimmerman and Mazur as the most effective players. These are the complete results of round 1 and 2 of the national phase.

Round 1

Boston College 90 - Liceo Mixto 87
Bos: B.J. Puckett (203-F-83, agency: Tank Sports, college: Clayton St.) 27 pts. Felipe Ziegele (178-G-80) 26 pts.
Lic: Kevin Frey (202-F-80, college: Xavier) 27 pts. Patricio Briones (213-C-72, college: Dade CC) 22 pts.

CD Puente Alto 89 - Universidad Catolica 87
Pue: John Davis (201-F-84, agency: AMI, college: Tarleton St.) 23 pts. Percy Werth (185-G-78) 17 pts.
Uc: Keddric Mays (183-G) 25 pts. Ivan Lopez (208-C-85, agency: Next Level, college: Memphis) 19 pts.

Deportivo Valdivia 83 - Universidad de Los Lagos 75
Val: Marcus Elliott (191-G-84, college: Louisiana Tech) 26 pts. Deshawn Danzey (198-F) (198-F) 24 pts.
Ula: Tim Jennings (191-G-83, college: Gardner-Webb) 40 pts. Leonel Mendez (184-G-75) 11 pts.

Provincial Osorno 95 - Provincial Llanquihue 91
Oso: Thurman Zimmerman (196-F-83, agency: AMI, college: S.Carolina St.) 21 pts. Rodrigo Zuniga (198-F-76) 19 pts.
Llan: Anthony Knox (202-F/C-80, agency: Global Sports Plaza, college: Pikeville) 30 pts. John A. Thomas (198-G/F-82, college: Columbus St.) 29 pts.

Deportes Ancud 62 - CD Universidad de Concepcion 73
Anc: Malcolm Connor (198-G/F-80, college: W.New Mexico) 11 pts. Humberto Carrizo (-86) 10 pts.
Ucon: Evandro Arteaga (178-G-83) 19 pts. Kennell Sanchez (196-G/F-83, college: Drexel) 19 pts.

Deportes Castro 108 - Espanol de Talca 93
Cas: Jose Luis Campos (189-G-80) 25 pts. Gonzalo Velasquez (185-G-81) 21 pts.
Esp: Marques Hayden (201-F-83, agency: Tank Sports, college: Kansas St.) 19 pts. Javes Wiggins (201-F-80, college: Md-Eastern Shore) 17 pts.

Round 2

Boston College 70 - Universidad Catolica 79
Bos: Patricio Arroyo (197-F/G-73) 14 pts. Felipe Ziegele 13 pts.
Uc: Ivan Lopez 25 pts. Angelo Olivares (185-G-82) 25 pts.

CD Puente Alto 73 - Liceo Mixto 78
Pue: Joseph Works (201-F-83, college: Tarleton St.) 18 pts. Bruce Jolly (205-F/C-81, college: W.Georgia) 17 pts.
Lic: Rodrigo Espinoza (183-G-81, agency: Players Group) 21 pts. Patricio Briones 19 pts.

Deportivo Valdivia 79 - Provincial Llanquihue 72
Val: Marcus Elliott 25 pts. Deshawn Danzey 16 pts.
Llan: John A. Thomas 18 pts. Anthony Knox 14 pts.

Provincial Osorno 97 - Universidad de Los Lagos 93
Oso: Thurman Zimmerman 25 pts. Marc Mazur (210-C-79, agency: Court Side, college: Detroit Mercy) 22 pts.
Ula: Dean Browne (206-C-80, college: Nevada) 36 pts. Tim Jennings 24 pts.

Deportes Ancud 75 - Espanol de Talca 89
Anc: Leonardo Alves 27 pts. Malcolm Connor 20 pts.
Esp: David Gonzalez (180-G-86) 23 pts. Marques Hayden 17 pts.

Deportes Castro 86 - CD Universidad de Concepcion 81
Cas: Gonzalo Velasquez 21 pts. Jose Luis Campos 18 pts.
Ucon: Jefferson Agba (210-F/C-80, college: Embry Riddle) 36 pts. Evandro Arteaga 11 pts.

Dimayor: Wiggins sign with Espanol - by Daniel Valencia
After the injury suffered by Chris Lee (206-C, college: S.Carolina St.) the leaders of Espanol de Talca and the coach Hector Vera decided to sign a contract with the american player Javes Wiggins (201-F-80, college: Md-Eastern Shore). The forward form Md- Eastern Shore university has playing experience in the ABA and NPBL league. In his first two games with Espanol de Talca, Wiggins played against Castro and Ancud scoring 17 points in both games. Espanol is currently in the tenth position of the league.

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  CHINA   


Britain thrashes China at Paralympics - by Eurobasket News
Britain, the Athens Paralympics bronze medallist, overpowered China 81-34 in a wheelchair basketball Pool B preliminary game at the National Indoor Stadium on Sunday.

In another pool B match, despite trailing by 17 points at halftime, Australia earned a last-minute 73-72 victory over Brazil.

Led by center Simon Munn, who scored 19 points, and guard Jonathan Hall in 17, the British team hit 49 percent of their field goals and 52 percent of their two-point shots.

In addition to the British team's wide-margin victory, they outplayed China in rebounds 48-38, assists 13-4 and steals 8-2.

The British team scored 42 points in the paint, against China's 18 in the paint.

Although Chinese coach Xu Yuanshuang said his team's strategy was to widen their defence and play full-court press, China could not deter the pace and scoring of their opponents.

Center Yang Lei was the top Chinese scorer with 12 points, but the Chinese team minimized their challenge by counting turnovers and 20 personal fouls.

'I think my performance is good today. However, because I just came back from Spain a month ago, I didn't have enough team play and my physical strength has yet to peak,' said Chinese center Ding Hai. 'Otherwise, I think I could have played better.'

Talking about the gap with Britain, Ding said: 'Partly it is physical condition, and the more important reason is that Chinese wheelchair basketball lacks experience. We learned from today's game that we need to compete as a whole team, and rise to the occasion.'

The British contained Chinese to six points in both the second and fourth quarters.

In other preliminary matches, the United States defeated Israel 76-53; Sweden upset Japan 61-49; Iran crushed South Africa 73-62 in the opener; defending champion Canada Germany edged out Germany 62-59.

The United States outplayed Israel in both offence and defence, scoring 17 points from turnovers and 32 in the paint.

They also scored six fast break points, compared to nothing for Israel.

Twelve teams are split to two pools and the top four teams from each will progress to the quarterfinals.

Courtesy of www.english.cri.cn

New coach for China - by Robert Wang
Former NBA coach Bob Hil will sign with Shan Xi team as their new coach for the new season. Bob has coached in Spurs and led team to the psot season twice. Hope he can help Shan Xi team go to the good path since shan Xi team changed the coach so often and they even chaged the coach during the season and 1 coahc even only coach 1 game 2 years ago. ! Shan Xi Coach just hired the coach Ma Lian Bao after the season and for some reasons, team fired him last month.Hope this new US coach can stay longer. good luck!

FIBA Asia Must Give Us Better Statistics - by Arthur Volbert
FIBA Asia is not providing the international basketball community with sufficient statistical information for its Under-18 championship and this is hindering the development of Asian basketball.

International scouts have no idea who the best players are. I have only very limited information on who are the best players. I would have to study all the box scores in order to get this information.

There is a typographical error in the box score for the China-Korea game so that only fourth quarter results are given. This prevents me from calculating complete statistics on the Chinese players, especially for Wang Zheng (216-C-90), in whom the NBA shows interest. Mobile 216 cm players are hard to find.

But this error in the box score would be inconsequential if FIBA Asia provided the type of statistical information that FIBA Europe provides.

I can go to www.FIBA.com and get complete statistics on the European Under-18 Championship for 2008.

I can get the tournament averages for each player on each team in points, rebounds, assists, turnovers, steals and blocks. I can see their two-point, three-point and free throw shooting percentages.

With a click of my mouse, I can quickly view the top 10 players in all these statistical categories. I can do none of this for the Asian Under-18 championship.

If Asia wants its best players to be developed, it has to give the international basketball community complete statistics. Perhaps there are international teams that might wish to recuit the top players. Perhaps some could play at an American Division I university. There are even American prep schools which might recruit them.

But, with no statistics, we have no idea who the best players truly are. Who is consistently outstanding and who makes headlines one game and disappears the next?

Asia is beginning to produce international basketball stars. Central Asia and India are now joining East Asia and the West Asia in producing basketball talent. To maximize the development of this talent, we need to see statistics at championships such as the U-18 to know which players are truly best.

NBA Center for China - by Robert Wang
Former NBA centerfrom Pacer's team David Harrison has been in touch with Liao ning team recently and would be the biggest name player ever in China history if he signed with this team. Although Jamal Thompson did not sign with team but he still showed some interested in this team. And he might come back to China if he doesn't go to NBA this year. Liao ning has been put much money for their imprts from last season and they just want to sign the NBA centers. In fact, most teams want to sign NBA centers in China and they all want to put big money on this position. Let's see whoelse would be the next imprt from NBA to China.

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  CROATIA   


Split CO trashes Ural Great in a friendly - by Eurobasket News

Split CO surprisingly smashed Ural Great Perm 86-64 in a friendly game. Croatians dominated during the entire time touching plus 28 with 3 minutes remaining.

After opening 6-6, Eddie Shannon (180-G-76, college: Florida) drained a triple for the first Split's lead. Very soon young prospect Mario Delas (210-C-90) joined him which resulted with 27-19 at the end of the first quarter. After that moment Split somehow stopped playing. Ural Great took control under the basket grabbing many offensive rebounds. It allowed Russian team a second chance to score many easy baskets, what its players done very well setting the score on 34-35 at the half time. Split showed up after the breather with totally different attitude. Josko Poljak (213-C-78) shined at the middle of third frame leading his team to 57-47. Later, the other Split's players woke up while Russians weren't on their level. As it is mentioned above, with 3 minutes to go Split touched plus 28, what was its biggest advantage in this game.

Center Andrija Stipanovic (208-C-86) is getting into the right shape. He was the best player of his team adding 16 points. Mario Delas had 14 while Antonio Grant (196-F-77, college: S.Carolina) stopped on 12 points. Ural got the most from Jones, 18 points.



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  D-LEAGUE   


Omar Cook Helps Lead Montenegro Over Netherlands - by Surujh Roopnarine
Naturalized Montenegrin and Brooklyn's own Omar Cook (6'1''-G-82, college: St.John's), helped lead the Montenegro National Team to 70-63 victory over the Netherlands in Eurobasket Division B Qualifying Play. With a chance to be promoted to Division A of the European Championships as the ultimate goal, the former St. Johns product dished out a game high seven assists in 32 minutes. Even though his offense was lacking (0-5 FG, 3 points), Cook, who played this past season with KK Crvena Zvezda Beograd and will suit up for Spanish Power Unicaja Malaga this season, kept a steady pace for the Montenegro side as they overcame a strong performance from NBA veteran Francisco Elson (11pt + 13rb) for Netherlands.
A veteran of the D-League, Cook owns career averages of 10.1 points, 3.1 rebounds and 7.4 assists in 153 career games spread over four seasons with the Fayetteville Patriots. For the 2004-05 season, Cook logged the most minutes of any player in the D-League and was first in assists (380) as well as steals (92).

NBA halts plans for developing reworked composite ball - by Eurobasket News
The NBA will use leather basketballs in its developmental league next season, temporarily ending its attempts to re-introduce a composite ball at the NBA level, a league official has confirmed.

'We are committed to leather for the foreseeable future,' said league spokesman Tim Frank. 'We just realized leather is what our guys wanted.'

That means Spalding will remain one of two companies manufacturing a leather basketball. Molten also produces a ball for FIBA that is made of a different type of leather than the NBA ball.

Most college and high school conferences, as well as some foreign and international leagues, use balls made of synthetic material because they're less expensive to produce and provide more consistency from ball to ball.

The NBA introduced a composite ball at the start of the 2006-07 season, but after complaints from players that the balls became slick from perspiration and left tiny cuts on their fingertips the league returned to leather in January 2007.

The league hoped to develop a composite ball that met its players' approval, and to that end, according to sources, experimented with three different types of composite balls in the D League last season.

It also formed a committee of top NBA players to test the new versions and offer their input, something that was not done the first time.

The production cost for Spalding, the company that makes the league's official ball, was one reason the league looked to switch to a composite material. The plan now is to develop a two-paneled ball, rather than the current eight-panel model.

The two-panel design was used on the composite ball and did not raise any complaints. Spalding is supposedly hoping that the feature can be used as a marketing tool.
The D League will begin next season using an eight-paneled leather ball and then switch to a two-paneled version sometime around midseason, Frank said.

Courtesy of ESPN

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  DOMINICAN REPUBLIC   


Dominicans Abroad: Manuel Guzman made a espectacular debut in LNBP - by Jordan Olivo
Mexico: Algodoneros de Torreon defeated Lobos Grises UAD de Durango 90 - 85.

The Dominican Manuel Guzman (203-F-82, college: Bemidji St.) made debut of spectacular form, since it imposed respect in boards, finishing with 22 points and 10 rebounds in just 23 minutes that was in court.

Guzman threw of 5-6 from the field (86%) and of 12-14 of free throws (86%).

In another game Bravos de Piedras Negras-Eagle Pass defeated Potros Itson de Cd. Obregn 94 - 71.

The Bravos de Piedras Negras, , directed by the Dominican coach Jose Dilone 'Joselito', quickly brought the match to the first partial Potros won 32 of 11, taking a lead of 21 points which was unattainable.

By the winners the dominican Julio Solano scored 6 points, 7 rebounds and 2 assists in 31 minutes that was in court.

In Nuevo Laredo, Mexico, the dominican Johnathan Polanco (190-G-82) was 27 minutes on court to finish with only 5 points in the defeat of his team Venados Nuevo Laredo 97 - 103 before the Tecos of Guadalajara.

Polanco also added 3 rebounds, 3 assists and 2 steals.

Victor Toribio back over in Germany - by Oscar Peralta
Victor Toribio (198-G/F-82) back in Germany, After a short workout with Walter Tigers Tuebingen Toribio ended up in a Try-out with the VfL Kirchheim Knights where he pick up lots of interest from the club, but yet they didn't come to terms on a contract for 2008/2009. Toribio has still a couple of teams in Germany interested on his services for next season but he hasn't made a decision on where to call home and who knows if it will even be in Germany. where ever he ends up he will make an impact. Good luck to him!

Standings - LIDOBA
LIDOBA Standings
North Division
 1. Reales 14-5 
 2. Metros 10-9 
 3. Indios SF 9-10 
 4. Marineros 6-13 
South Division
 1. Constituyentes 15-4 
 2. Cocolos 7-11 
 3. Panteras DN 7-11 
 4. Caneros 7-12 


CONSTITUYENTE ON FIRE - by Oscar Peralta
THEY CANT BE STOPPED. PLAYING BETTER THAN EVER THEY HAVE CHANCE OF WNNING IT ALL. THEY ARE THE TEAM TO BEAT, BUT REALES IS ALSO PLAYING WELL AND IS RIGHT BEHIND THEM IN THE OVERALL STANDINDS. IS GOING TO BE A GOOD ENDING THIS YEAR AND ANYTHING COULD HAPPEN BECAUSE TEAMS WILL START TO MAKE CHANGES IN THE ROSTERS TO BEEF UP THEIR TEAMS FOR A LAST RUN TOWARDS THE PLAYOFF. SO DONT EXPECT FOR THOSE BOTTOM TEAMS TO STAY AT THE BOTTOM FOR EVER. GOOD LUCK TO ALL!

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  EUROBASKET SUMMER LEAGUE   


CB Illescas Urban CLM sign ex ESL player - by Eurobasket
CB Illescas Urban CLM (LEB Gold) signed 20-year old Belgian international center Yannick Driesen (215-C-88), who played this summer at Eurobasket Summer League in Chicago at Team London. His team won that event. He spent last season at Adecco Estudiantes playing mostly for their second team. This year he is loaned to LEB Gold team Illescas.

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  FINLAND   


KORISLIIGA: Mark Zoller will play in Finland - by Rauno Hurmalainen
UU-Korihait (Uusikaupunki) has signed with American F Mark Zoller (201-F-85, college: Pennsylvania). Zoller was a big star in College Basketball and Ivy League. He was named twice (-06, -07) All Ivy League 1st Team. Last season Zoller played in Spain (CB Plasencia - LEB Silver), where he averaged 9,5 ppg - 5,0 rpg.
Finnish Champion 2007-08 Honka (Espoo) has signed familiar American players. G Akeem Scott (186-G-83, college: High Point) and F Ben Perkins (200-F-79, college: Mc Neese St.) were on Honka's roster also last season, F Monte Cummings (193-G-76, college: Florida St.) will start his fourth season in Espoo.

INTERNATIONAL: Tuukka Kotti next to France - by Rauno Hurmalainen
After three seasons in Italy Finnish NT F Tuukka Kotti (204-F/C-81, college: Providence) will transfer and move to France. Kotti's new Team is Brest (ProB) and Team's Head Coach Noam Rudman from Israel. The contract is for coming 2008-09 season. Last season Kotti played in Italy-SerieA (Rieti) averaging 2,7 ppg - 1,8 rpg in 11,2 mpg. During the years 2005-07 Kotti was playing in Lega2 (Ignis Castelleto Ticino). Kotti has been on Finland NT roster 89 times.

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  FRANCE   


ProA trades: Gravelines inks Bokolo - by Chris Spiesser
The maritims hired the french combo guard Yannick Bokolo (189-G-85) who posted, last season, 5.4ppg, 2.2rpg, 2.7apg with Le Mans. He will have the opportunity to boost his career after having had quite the stats all-over his years in Le Mans. This defensive strong player will only join his new teammates at the end of the month, after having ended the Eurobasket qualifiers with the french NT. This signature leaves an open spot for coach Monschau to hire a foreign player as an inside rotation.

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 be 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 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) who is tested those days. The former player from Pau had not signed for any team right now.

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  GERMANY   


Bremerhaven lands Marcus Slaughter - by Moritz Korff
As the agency Beobasket announced today, Marcus Slaughter (203-F-85, college: San Diego St.) will play in Germany and join 1. Bundesliga-club Eisbaeren Bremerhaven. The 23-year-old American Forward started the 2007-08 season at Hapoel Migdal Jerusalem, but was waived in December 07. One month later he agreed to terms with BCM Gravelines Dunkerque Grand Littoral (France, Pro A). In 15 games for Gravelines he averaged 9.5 points, 7.2 rebounds, 1.4 assists and 1.3 steals.

Karlsruhe transfer surprise - by Moritz Korff
The German National Team Player Rouven Roessler (200-F-80, agency: Pro One Sports) is set to join BG Karlsruhe of the 2. Bundesliga Pro A. The 27-year-old swingman signed a contract that runs through the 2009-10 season.
Roessler returns to the club after two years with the Giessen 46ers. Back in 2003 he led BG Karlsruhe to championship honors in the 2. Bundesliga and promotion to Germany's first league.
During 2007-08, his second season in Giessen, Roessler was one of the best German player of the Bundesliga in terms of statistics: He tallied 13.6 points and 3.7 rebounds per contest and was named a 2008 Bundesliga-Allstar. In June 08 he made his debut on the German Men's National Team in a friendly against Poland. He has played a total of four games for Germany so far. As one of the players being cut from the roster during the summer, he failed to land a spot on Germany's roster for the Olympic Games.

Market News - by Moritz Korff
Thomas Fairley (206-F/C-82, college: Lamar) has commited his near future to Science City Jena (2. Bundesliga Pro A). If the former Chemnitz post man stays with the team of coach Sean McCaw for the remainder of the 2008-09 campaign will be decided within the next two weeks, when Fairley is going to work out with his potential new club. The 26-year-old Long Beach, Miss. native averaged 12.0 points, 8.8 rebounds as well as 1.8 blocks for the Niners in this past season.

The UBC Hannover Tigers, that are still hoping to land the final open spot in the 2. Bundesliga Pro B, have added center Peter Van Rij (206-C-76, agency: Court Side, college: Charleston So.) to their 2008-09 roster. The 2007-09 Eurobasket.com German All-Regionalliga North Second Team member received a German passport two weeks ago and thus is ready to compete for the Tigers who already had two import players on their squad. Van Rij, 32 years of age and born in Rotterdam, Holland, first came to German basketball in 2000. He also lined up for the Dutch Men's National Team earlier in his career. During 2007-08 he tallied 19.2 points per contest in 19 games for BG Magdeburg.

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  GREECE   


Pandic inks in Kavala - by Chris Mammides
A1
The team of Kavala/Panorama agreed financial terms with the 26 years old Serbian center Mladen Pantic (210-C-82). Head Coach Pilafidis added another very good player in his roster, the Bosman center agreed to wear the Kavala jersey for one year contract. The Serbian player played last seazon in the German league with the colors of Alba Berlin where he had 3ppg and 1.5rpg in 20 games.
A2
Keravnos Aigio Helesi agreed financial terms with the Spanish center, ex player of Kolossos Rodou Alfonso Albert (210-C-73) for one year contract.

Market News - by Serafim Karaiskakis
Mamoutou Diarra (200-F-80) failed in the try-out and did not signed in Murcia but he is still candidate for Greek teams. Paok may want him back and Panionios is interesting.

Panionios looks for a backup bosman SF, Mamoutou Diarra who wants 150.000 euro and Kristaps Janicenoks (196-F-83) are first options. The Latvian player had solid seasons in Italy and games in Euroleague. This season had averages: 8.4ppg, 2.3rpg, 1.1apg, 1.5spg, 2FGP:48.1%, 3PT:34.3%, FT:78.4% in 22 min/game.Against Roma he had 22 points with 4/6 3pt

Marousi will sign Shawn Huff (198-G/F-84). The Finnish NT player will be backup of Jarod Stevenson.He graduated from Valparaiso (NCAA) having: 12.6ppg, 4.5rpg, 1.6apg, FGP: 48.7%, 3Pts: 47.9%, FT: 83.8%.

PAOK: Transfer rumors - by George Manousidis

Between others (almost fifty) three is the biggest names who proposed in the coaching staff of PAOK:


Gaines Charles ex Galatasaray and hovendut bandalona player with last season 31 games: 13.2ppg, 8.1rpg, 2FGP: 55.9%, FT: 67.4% in the Turkish league and ULEB Cup: 17 games: 12.4ppg, 7.3rpg, 1.1spg, FGP: 59.1%, 3PT: 0%, FT: 49.2%.

Gerald Fitch (191-G-82, agency: Pro One Sports, college: Kentucky) ex Tisettanta Cantu player with NBA experience in Miami Heat, Houston Rockets and Detroit Pistons with last year stats: 23 games: 15.2ppg, 3.3rpg, 1.9apg, Steals-2(1.6spg), 2FGP:44.9%, 3PT:36.5%, FT:76.3%

Jack Michael Martinez (203-F/C-81, agency: Paris Global Sports) from Cocodrilos de Caracas. Jack Michael Martinez played 2006-2007 in Italy with Legea Scafati Basket 13 games: 13.8ppg, Reb-4(9.5rpg), 1.2apg, 1.8spg, 2FGP: 47.4%, 3PT: 25.0%, FT: 55.8% until January and then moved to Siviglia Wear Teramo 19 games: 9.0ppg, Reb-5(9.1rpg), 1.4apg, 1.2spg, 2FGP: 44.7%, 3PT: 16.7%, FT: 56.7%.

The Coach Pedoulakis and the Technical Advisor Nikos Boudouris has a very difficult decision because all three has the experience and the abilities to help PAOK.



Tzimas is history! - by Chris Mammides

The successful Greek Head coach of AS Trikalla 2000, Yannis Tzimas resigned from the team which he created just few weeks before the official oppening of the league, due to personal reasons. It is more than certain that the management of the team was kind of ready as rumors are taking Giorgos Kalafatakis into Trikala in less than a week. Yannis Tzimas 's coaching skills in Trikala was more than appreciated as he took the team is avery low profile and developed them into the champions of A2 in less than 3 years, focsing purely in the Hellenic element.


Other transfer news

Petros Noeas (203-F-87) will be wearing Egaleo's jersey for one year as his team Marousi agreed to lend him to Egaleo for this coming seazon.

Shawn Huff (198-G/F-84) is the seventh player in Soulis Markopoulos's team, the Finnish player agreed financial terms and he will be wearing the yellow jersey of Marousi for the next three years.

Coach Vangelis Alexandris and his team AEL 1964 Larissa will probably replace the American Bruce Price (191-G-83) the first player to be 'tested' is the American ex player of Chalon, Rob McKiver (191-G-84, college: Houston).

Lewis Sims (203-F/C-73, college: New Orleans), the veteran forward is very close to sign in the newcomers in the league, team of Kavala/Panorama



Kavala inks Digbeu - by Chris Mammides
A1
Kavala/Panorama agreed financial terms with the French ex memebr of the French NT, Alain Digbeu (195-F-75).
AEK Athens agreed financial terms with the American forward Trevon Bryant (206-F, college: Cal.St.-Dominguez H.).
A2
Dimitris Makris (203-F-78) renewed his contract for another one seazon with the team of Thessaloniki, MENT Vassilakis
Elias Tsopis (203-F/C-75) agreed financial terms with his ex team AO Sporting Athens in the difficult league of the Second Division. Sporting allready agreed terms with Thanassis Efthimiou (207-F/C-78) and Nikos Kritsalos (192-G-77), both the players agreed for one year with the Patisia team.

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  HOLLAND   


PromotieDivisie News: Warner and van Vilsteren sign with EreDivisie teams. - by Terry Cooper
Ryan Warner (196-F-85) signed a 1-year contract with ZZ Leiden in the EreDivisie. Warner played last season with MyGuide2 leading them to the Final Four championship. Ryan will be a great contributor to the ZZ team as they prepare for a great EreDivisie season. After a great year with the PromotieDivisie Champions MSV, Sjoerd van Vilsteren (200-F-84) returns to Rotterdam Challengers playing for both a new organization and head coach that will give him a fair opportunity to compete in the Divisie. Congratulations and much success to both players and they are examples of what hardwork, determination, and EreDivisie coaches watching can bring you in the future.

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  HUNGARY   


Spivey is back to Hungary - by Tamas Deri
Jermaine Spivey (189-G-72, college: New Orleans) is returning to our country as he signed a one-year deal with his new team in Pecs. The american guard is a well known player in Hungary and he spent already four seasons here and had great stats with the team of Dombovar and Albacomp. The last two years Spivey spent in Poland, where he played two months with Koszalin before going to sign with KTP in Finland. He played with the same team last season and averaged in 39 games: 16.3ppg, 5.5rpg, 3.9apg, 1.5spg, FGP: 51.3%, 3PT: 39.5%, FT: 73.8%.

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  ICELAND   


Iceland is ready for the opener - by Eurobasket News
Iceland National team will open their European Championship tomorrow in Division B. The team will be the last to join Group A of the tournament. As there are five teams in the group Iceland starts tomorrow for the first time. At home the team expects Denmark.
Danish National Team started with a loss in the European Championship Division B. Group A opener saw Austria winning in the road game 64:73. After a close half the Austrian where pushed by Deteri Mayes (189-G-74, agency: Court Side, college: Murray St.) and Thomas Schreiner (195-G-87, agency: Octagon). The lead was already at 14 points but some unnecessary turnovers let Denmark come closer, but no closer than 8 points. Deteri Mayes led the winners with 22 points, while Thomas Schreiner added 16. Hutter posted 10 and Hannes Ochsenhofer nailed 9 in a win. Nicolai Iversen (204-F-80, agency: Rasmussen Services, college: San Jose City JC) ended up with 19 points, while Chanan Colman posted 15.
Jandl scored from the arc to give the visitors 3:0 advantage. With 11:10 on the board Denmark produced 8-0 run and closed the opening quarter at 19:13. Even though Austria won the second 20:15 Denmark remained on top at the halftime. Hannes Ochsenhofer sent the teams to the lockers for 34:33 hosts lead.
It was Hannes Ochsenhofer again to tie the score at 47:47 in the middle of the third. Schreiners jump-shot closed the period at 49:56 for the visitors. After that Austria never looked behind. They won the last stanza 17:15 that gave them 73:64 total win.
In Eurobasket 2007 Iceland won and lost 4 games.

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  ITALY   


Rieti adds Wilmont, Bologna Bryan - by Gianni Pascucci
Sebastiani Basket officially announced the signing of Roderick Wilmont (193-G-83, college: Indiana), last in NBA D-League. Fortitudo Bologna added to the roster Sylvere Bryan (208-C-81, agency: Interperformances, college: Tampa), last at Air Avellino, who will stay with the team all the preseason long.

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  JUCO   


Maryland JUCOs players keep moving on - by C Martin
Maryland JUCOs players keep moving on. Garrett JC college, in Maryland who play in the very tough Region XX, which consist one teams such as Hagerstown CC, Cecil College, who have been the number one team in the country D-II, for the past few years, and have sent players to schools such as Texas, and Fresno State, and Allegany College of Maryland who produced such players as Steve Francis (6'3''-G-77, college: Maryland), and many others. Garrett JC College continues the trend of the MDJUCO sending impact players to NCAA schools. Lees-McRae College, Head Coach Scott Polsgrove is proud to announce the addition of Vlady Nikolov to the 2008-09 mens basketball squad. A native of Sofia, Bulgaria, this 61 guard comes to the Bobcats from Garrett JC College in McHenry, Md. where he shot 63.6% from the three point line and 87.5% from the charity stripe.
In addition to garnering a high shooting percentage Nikolov played a role in taking Garrett JC, a JUCO D I, to the Region XX Championship game this past season.
Vlady is an outstanding shooter and a very experienced player who will help us on the perimeter this season, commented Coach Polsgrove. His addition to the squad gives us depth at the shooting guard position.
Also Dyre Ross (6'6''-F) a 66 Forward, has signed a full scholarship to Mt. Olive College.
Mt. Olive is a NCAA D-II institution located in Mt. Olive, NC. Dyre will get the opportunity to face former Laker teammate Lavonti Jeter, who plays for Tusculum College, TN on Jan. 2 at Tusculum. Mt. Olive was 23 5 last season and made it to the NCAA D-II national tourney.
Daniel Daniel Conway (6'5''-F), 65 sophomore guard, has committed to continue his basketball career with D-2 power Fairmont St., Fairmont, WV. Daniel Conway played one year at Garrett JC and will have two years of eligibility remaining to play for the Falcons. Garrett JC College coach Dennis Gibson is happy with his choice, Daniel is a good fit for Fairmont. He brings a lot of athleticism and versatility to the lineup. For the most part of the year he was our leading scorer, and I am sure he will be successful in the WVIAC. I know the coaches there well and Daniel will fit right into their style of play. Daniel Conway will have the opportunity to play against former Lakers now in the WVIAC including Jerome Jack (6'4''-F), Davis & Elkins, Hrvoje Muhek, Ohio Valley, and Barry Cornish (6'6''-F/C) at Shepherd University. The WVIAC is one of the top rated Division II conferences in the country, so I am sure this is a good fit for our players. We are very compa

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  LITHUANIA   


Zalgiris and Rytas are strong at home - by Eurobasket News
Lithuanian titans played another friendlies and proved the ambitions for the upcoming season. Zalgiris smashed Ukrainian Sumihimprom 91:69. It was not a difficult game for the Lithuanian team that had three massive quarters. They led the game 71:42 and after that the coach used some players to participate in the game. Mantas Kalnietis (196-G-86, agency: Interperformances) led the winners with 15 points as well as Tadas Klimavicius (204-F-82, agency: Interperformances). Jonas Maciulis (200-G/F-85, agency: Interperformances) nailed 14 points and Deane III Willie netted 13.
Lietuvos Rytas beat Khimik 95:79 also last night. Ukrainian side looked well in the court and made less turnovers in comparison with the winners, 16-20. Lietuvos Rytas opened the game with 25:18 and then improved to 11 points deficit at the halftime. Khimik tied the third period at 25:25 but trailed 68:57 entering the fourth quarter. With 27:22 Lithuanian squad finished the game and won the friendly. Michailas Anisimovas (211-C-84) led the winners with 21 points. Milisavljevic Branko collected 19 points and 8 rebounds, while Eidson Chuck had 16. Sasa Bratic (202-F/G-81, agency: Beo Basket) and Famutimi Olu ended up with 15 points each in defeat. Cakic Goran and Kelly Wykeen netted 13 apiece, while Jackson Jarrius had 6.

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  NBA   


2008-09 NBA Calendar - by Eurobasket News
2008-09 NBA Calendar

Sept. 29 - Players report to their teams no earlier than 11 a.m. local time.

Sept. 30 - Training camps open.

Oct. 9-17 - NBA Europe Live exhibition games.

Oct. 24 - Preseason ends.

Oct. 27 - Rosters set for opening day, 6 p.m. EDT.

Oct. 28 - Start of the 2008-09 regular season.

Jan. 5 - 10-day contracts may now be signed.

Jan. 10 - All player contracts are guaranteed for the remainder of the season.

Feb. 15 - All-Star game (Phoenix).

Feb. 19 - Trading deadline, 3 p.m. EST.

April 26 - Early entry eligibility deadline, 11:59 p.m. EDT.

June 18 - NBA draft early entry entrant withdrawal deadline.

June 25 - NBA draft (New York).

Greg Oden finally set to become an NBA rookie - by Eurobasket News
He was drafted more than 14 months ago, and even then he looked too old to be a first-year player, so it's easy to forget that Greg Oden (7'0''-C-88, college: Ohio St.) is technically a rookie.

Sidelined all season after knee surgery, the top pick in the 2007 draft never got to compete with No. 2 selection Kevin Durant for the Rookie of the Year award. So he's eligible to win it this year, and that's one of his goals.

'I hope so,' Oden said Thursday. 'I'm working for it.'

The Portland centre definitely feels like a newcomer this week, joining a number of first-year players in the league's rookie transition program, a four-day event where players are counselled on issues they will face on and off the court.

Players are given three years to complete the program, in case they are unavailable in the summer before they enter the NBA. Oden couldn't come last year because it started just days after he had microfracture surgery on his right knee.

He finally began taking part in 5-on-5 drills last week, playing twice with his Trail Blazers teammates, and seemed pleased with his progress.

'When I first came back to Portland, I came back about three weeks ago, and I was a little bit nervous getting in there and starting working out with the guys,' Oden said. 'I was nervous about how I was going to play, but the more I got to playing, it's just about going out there and playing the game I love, so it's not really anything to be nervous about.'

For now, he doesn't think the Blazers will let him do too much more.

'I don't think they're going to do that until the season starts,' he said. 'They're trying to make sure nothing happens, so keeping me on a tight rope right now.'

Oden has already experienced plenty in the NBA, travelling with the Blazers on three long road trips last season. He said he's learned much more in the transition program, such as the services provided by the players' association and some financial lessons.

'I really don't know everything that went on, so I got to see some things,' Oden said. 'I know a couple of things that go on, but to really hear about it and all the situations while being here is good for me.'

Oden and the rest of the participants saw a quick lesson in NBA discipline Wednesday when former Kansas stars Mario Chalmers and Darrell Arthur were sent home on the first day of the program for violating unspecified league rules.

Mike Bantom, the NBA's senior vice-president of player development, said young players are going to make mistakes, which is why there is such a focus on finances. Even a first-round pick like Oden is only guaranteed a two-year contract at the start of his career, so players are cautioned not to blow it all too quickly.

'Be accountable for your own finances, don't rely on an agent or any one person to manage your money, because ultimately it's going to be your responsibility,' Bantom said. 'It's going to be your issue and you can't say, 'Well, I left it up to him'.'

Players also got a lecture Thursday from former Cavaliers and Hornets coach Paul Silas, who while reminding them of the challenges rookies face pointed out that he didn't even start Baron Davis, then a No. 3 overall pick, in Charlotte because he didn't think the point guard came into the league with a good enough shot.

Oden, growing out his beard and looking far older than his 20 years, is already aware there are no guarantees. Still, he won't have to worry about playing time once he's fully recovered.

'It took a couple of days, but it felt good,' he said of facing live competition again. 'The second day it felt a lot better, but I'm still not quite back yet.'

Courtesy of www.thestar.com

Heat's Mario Chalmers issues apology to team, NBA - by Eurobasket News
A contrite Mario Chalmers (6'1''-G-86, college: Kansas) spoke out about his banishment from the NBA's rookie symposium Friday, acknowledging that he made an error in judgment but denying numerous reports that he was using marijuana.

The Miami Heat rookie guard, who helped Kansas win the NCAA championship five months ago, released an apology through the team to several parties, including NBA commissioner David Stern, Heat owner Micky Arison, Heat president Pat Riley, Heat coach Erik Spoelstra and the Kansas basketball family.

Chalmers was sent home from the event Wednesday after security at the resort where the four-day session was taking place found Chalmers and former Kansas teammate Darrell Arthur in a room with two women, and security officials detected the scent of marijuana. No drugs or drug paraphernalia were found, but even having guests in the room broke NBA policies, and the two rookies were banished by Stern.

'Everyone who knows me knows I am a good person and I pride myself on doing the right thing,' Chalmers said. 'I am embarrassed this happened. I broke the rules, but I did not smoke marijuana.'

Chalmers and Arthur will have to repeat the class, which discusses the challenges of making the transition from college to pro ball, next year. Both could be fined up to $20,000 and still may face a suspension at the start of the season.

'I made a poor decision in putting myself in the situation that I did,' Chalmers said. 'It is a dream of a lifetime to play in the NBA and be part of the Miami Heat. I look forward to starting my NBA career, this was a one-time occurrence and it won't happen again.'

On Thursday in Memphis, Arthur also denied using marijuana.

'About the marijuana, I didn't have any,' Arthur told The Commercial Appeal. I didn't have anything to do with marijuana or anything like that. I'd like to clear that up. ... I used bad judgment by bringing the girls in and violating the rules. It was a bad mistake. I'm not a bad kid or anything. I just put myself in a bad situation. I want to apologize to the GM, the owner and all the fans. You won't hear my name in anything like this from here on out. It'll be straight and narrow from here.'

Chalmers is expected to vie for Miami's starting point guard spot this season.

The NBA symposium is required of all newcomers entering the league and focuses on issues such as life skills, handling finances, the importance of character and image, the difference between NBA and NCAA game rules, legal matters and dealing with media.

Chalmers was drafted early in the second round by Minnesota and quickly traded to the Heat, who raved about his play in the Orlando summer league and signed him to a two-year deal.

Courtesy of www.usatoday.com

NBA without borders South Africa last days recap - by Bruno Baltazar

Sept. 7, 2008 -- The 6th edition of Basketball without Borders Africa wrapped up under the blazing African sun. For the first time ever, a clinic was held for young girls under the expert tutelage of former WNBA player Jennifer Azzi. The clinic, run in partnership with Hoops for Hope, featured young girls from the surrounding communities and involved the NBA players and coaches as they taught the basic fundamentals of shooting, passing, dribbling and defense.
Jennifer then did what she did best aside from shooting hoops which was to give a brief motivational speech followed by a Q&A session with the girls. If you see it, believe it Jennifer explained. Success is following your own passion; you are brought into this world to make a difference. Maximize yourself, your talents and your abilities. As the children listened on intently she continued; Learn how to lead and how to follow. Have a vision; embrace and overcome obstacles and you can achieve anything.

The outdoor courts at the American International School of Johannesburg were also the scene of the two All-Star games; tightly fought contests that saw the best kids at the camp compete in two highly athletic games. The three-point contest also took place, and saw the winning player compete against Matt Bonner (6'9''-F-80, college: Florida) of the San Antonio Spurs. Following the completion of the games and the awards ceremonies, the campers all regrouped for a final barbeque where they would bid farewell to friends old and new and take back to their respective countries memories to last a life time.

Sept. 6, 2008 -- The Basketball without Borders train rolled on today as the group gathered at the American International School of Johannesburg for a final morning of skill sessions with the coaches and players.

For the fifth year in a row, the NBA players and coaches were treated to a tour of Kliptown, a ghetto in the township of Soweto. The tour attracted the attention of many as it made its way through small dirt streets strewn with glass and litter. At various points along the journey, the children of Kliptown performed ceremonial dances that represented the different tribes of people living in the area. They even offered local delicacies for tasting fried caterpillar!

The tour finished up at Soweto Kliptown Youth (SKY) Trust where the dancing and celebration continued. Dikembe Mutombo (7'2''-C-66, college: Georgetown) even had a chance to showcase his rhythm for everyone. The children flocked to the players, asking them questions and marveling at their height. Lunch was served in the NBA sponsored dining hall created three years ago, and the players and coaches were able to get up close and personal with the people of the community.

The BWB campers were back at the gym for an afternoon of scrimmages. They also had their height, weight, wingspan, and vertical leap measured. Tomorrow is the last day of team play and the competition is strong. All of the campers are eager for the chance to showcase their talents and are looking forward to the selection of teams for the All-Star games tomorrow.

Sept. 5, 2008 -- If home is where the heart is, the NBA players and coaches can now claim Orange Farm Township as their home. This afternoon, the group was in the poverty stricken township neighborhood put their heart and hard-work into building three homes with Habitat for Humanity.

Alongside the future homeowners, Dikembe Mutombo and Shareef Abdur-Rahim mixed cement as Caron Butler and Charlie Bell passed bricks. Matt Bonner, Jennifer Azzi, Thabo Sefolosha, Nick Collison, and Bob Lanier all showed off their bricklaying technique as the walls of the houses grew higher and higher. At the end of the build, the three houses were nearer to completion and three families were closer to having safe, comfortable housing.

Back at the American School, the BWB campers started their day with a life skills session led by Caron Butler, Nick Collison and Jennifer Azzi in partnership with Hoops 4 Hope. The session focused on the importance of healthy living and AIDS awareness and prevention. The campers continued to improve in the morning skills sessions lead by the coaches and players. After some afternoon scrimmages, the campers took a special trip to visit the lion park where they had a chance to get up close and personal with some lion cubs.

Cortesy of www.nba.com



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  NCAA1   


Wolfgang Gieler leaves Siena College - by Eurobasket News
Wolfgang Gieler (6'9''-C-86) has left Siena College to pursue a professional basketball career in Germany. Gieler was enrolled at the College this summer and had been taking classes and working out with the team before deciding to head home to Germany this week.

'We regret that Wolfgang determined it was in his best interest to leave Siena,' head coach Fran McCaffery said. 'I was excited about his future at Siena and regret that he did not have the experience we were all hoping for.'

Wolfgang Gieler played last year for Allan Hancock CC. He had 30 appearances in JUCO averaging 17.5ppg and 13.1 rpg. He transferred t Allan Hancock CC from Cal-Irvine in 2007.

Courtesy of www.sienasaints.com

Maine welcomes class of 2012 - by Eurobasket News
ORONO, Maine-- As classes for the fall semester began last week, the University of Maine men's basketball team welcomed six new members of the class of 2012 to campus. They include:

Svetoslav Chetinov, a 6'9' 250 lbs F/C from MCI, and Bulgaria, Mechanical Engineering major

Doran Mitchell, a 6' guard from St. Thomas More Prep School, and Berlin, Conn.

Ryan Martin, a 5'9' guard from Maranacook High School

Andrew Rogers, a 5'9' guard from Philadelphia, Pa.

Jon McAllian, a 6'6' wing from Bangor, Maine

Gerald McLemore, a 6'3' guard from San Diego, Calif.

'It is great to have these new players join our program,' said Maine head coach Ted Woodward. 'They all bring a set of talent and character that has made them successful in their pre-college ventures. They all have great passion for the game, and we are looking for their immediate impact on our team this coming season.'

Courtesy of www.ncaa.com

Joshua Bone leaves Southern Illinois University - by Eurobasket News
Southern Illinois University coach Chris Lowery announced Monday that junior guard Joshua Bone (6'3''-G-88) has left the program and plans to transfer at the end of fall semester.

The Salukis recently returned from a three-game exhibition trip to Canada, where Bone played 40 minutes and averaged 1.3 ppg.

'Josh has been an important part of our program the last two years, and we appreciate everything he's done in a Saluki uniform,' Lowery said.

Bone played in every game last season and started 19 games. He was the team's fourth-leading scorer at 8.1 ppg and led the team in 3-point shots made with 57.

'I want to thank all of the coaches for recruiting me and giving me an opportunity to play here,' Bone said. 'There are no hard feelings. After going to Canada, I was unsure what my role would be on this team. I prayed about it, talked it over with my family, and we felt the best decision for me was to go somewhere else.'

Courtesy of www.siusalukis.com

Lamar's Justin Nabors to miss four months - by Eurobasket News
Lamar senior forward Justin Nabors (6'6''-F-87, college: NW Mississippi CC) will miss the next few months while he recovers from an injury he sustained in a pick-up game on Wednesday, Aug. 27.

After making a jump pass, Nabors came down and fractured his right leg and dislocated his right elbow.

'Justin is recovering nicely,' head coach Steve Roccaforte said. 'He is in good spirits and, physically, once he goes through rehab he should be 100 percent healthy.

'We anticipate the recovery process to be at least four months and if that's the case, he will redshirt this season.'

The 6-6, 215-pound Nabors averaged 11.2 points and 6.4 rebounds last season and is the team's second-leading returning scorer. He started 15 of 29 games and averaged 24.4 minutes per contest. He transferred to Lamar from Northwest Mississippi Community College where he was a NJCAA honorable mention all-America selection and the Region XXIII Co-Player of the Year in 2006-07.

Courtesy of www.lamarcardinals.com

Dan Hipsher named assistant head coach at South Florida - by Eurobasket News
University of South Florida Head Coach Stan Heath announced today that Dan Hipsher has been promoted from Assistant Coach to Assistant Head Coach.

Hipsher is entering his fourth season on Heaths staff after spending two years with him at Arkansas and this past season at USF.

'Dan has assumed this role from the beginning', said Heath. 'He is an important member of our staff and the timing was right to recognize him for his contributions'.

'I am honored that Stan saw fit to promote me to this position', said Hipsher. 'I look forward to continuing to assist him in any way possible to get this program to the top of the BIG EAST'.

Hipsher has 29 years of collegiate coaching experience to his credit, including 15 years as a head coach at Akron, Stetson and Wittenberg University. As a head coach, he compiled a career record of 238-182 from 1990-2004. Overall as a head coach and assistant, his teams have earned eight NCAA Tournament bid.

Hipsher, a two-time first-team all-state selection at Fostoria (Ohio) High School, was a multiple letter winner in both basketball and baseball at Bowling Green State University. The two-time captain was named MAC All-Academic team twice (honorable mention CoSIDA All-American) in basketball. After graduating from BGSU with a bachelor's in chemistry and biology in 1977, he worked as a graduate assistant at Miami (Ohio) University, earning his master's in education a year later.

Hipsher and his wife, Sue, also a 1977 Bowling Green graduate, have two sons, Andy (28) and Bryan (26). Andy is an assistant basketball coach at Western Michigan University.

Practice begins on Friday, Oct. 17, and the Bulls open the season with a pair of home exhibition games. The exhibition schedule is highlighted by an intra-city matchup with the University of Tampa on Monday, Nov. 10, at 7 p.m. Prior to facing Tampa, the Bulls kick off the 2008-09 season with an exhibition game against the University of West Florida on Tuesday, Nov. 4, at 7 p.m.

USFs first regular season contest will come at home vs. Southern Methodist on Nov. 14 at 7 p.m. USF opens BIG EAST action with a pair of nationally televised home games vs. Syracuse and Louisville, respectively. The Bulls host the Orange on ESPN on Friday, Jan. 2, at 8:30 p.m., followed by the Cardinals visiting Tampa for an ESPN2 game on Wednesday, Jan. 7, at 7 p.m.

The complete basketball schedule can be found on GoUSFBulls.com. Fans interested in ticket information can call 1-800-Go-Bulls.

Courtesy of www.gousfbulls.com

Adrian Autry joins Hokie basketball staff - by Eurobasket News
Virginia Tech coach Seth Greenberg has announced the hiring of Adrian Autry as Director of Mens Basketball Operations. Autry comes to Tech from Paul the VI High School in Fairfax, where he has been the assistant basketball coach since 2007.

We are very excited to have Adrian join our staff, head coach Seth Greenberg said. Adrians depth and experience in collegiate and professional basketball is second to none. He has tremendous people skills and is an outstanding communicator. He will be a very valuable addition to our staff.

At Paul the VI, Autry performed numerous on-court and off-court duties. He assisted the planning and organization of practice, recruited academically and athletically qualified students and broke down game film, along with scouting future opponents. Prior to joining Paul VI, Autry was the assistant coach at Bishop Ireton High School in Alexandria, Va. At Bishop Ireton, he performed many of the same duties as at Paul the VI.

Away from high school basketball, Autry has been an assistant coach with the Triple Threat AAU program since March 2008. Before that, he was a head coach with the NOVA United AAU program from March 2006 through January 2008. With NOVA United, he coached the 15-and-under team in 2007 and the 14-and-under team in 2006.

Autry is a 1994 graduate of Syracuse University with a bachelors of arts degree in speech communications. At Syracuse, he was a four-year starter at point guard for head coach Jim Boeheim and team captain as a senior. He was a first team All-BIG EAST selection as a senior, a third team selection as a junior and a member of the BIG EAST All-Rookie team in the 1990-91 season. The Orangemen won the BIG EAST regular season title in the 1990-91 season and the BIG EAST Tournament title in the 1991-92 season. The Orangemen played in three NCAA Tournaments while Autry was there, including a Sweet 16 berth his senior season. He is currently fifth on the schools all-time assists list and sixth in career steals at SU. He was a member of the 22-and-under USA Basketball World Championship gold-medal winning team in 1994.

At St. Nicholas of Tolentine High School in the Bronx, N.Y., he was a McDonalds All-American in 1990 and a first team All-City in the 1989-90 season. The school won the New York City and State Championship in 1988, the same year they were named the number-one high school program in the nation.

Following graduation from Syracuse, Autry had an 11-year overseas professional basketball career. He played in numerous countries, including Greece, Russia, Italy, Spain and France. While playing overseas, he periodically submitted stories on basketball and living abroad for ESPN the Magazine.

Autry has been involved in numerous summer basketball camps and clinics during the past several years, including working at collegiate and professional camps and elite clinics.

Courtesy of www.hokiesports.com

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


Craig Bradshaw signs with Spanish Leon - by Eurobasket News
Tall Blacks prospect Craig Bradshaw (207-F/C-83, college: Winthrop) decided to continue his career in Europe. He inked a deal with the Spanish Leon side. Group Begar Leon played in the top Spanish ACB league last year but was relegated to the LEB Oro. Craig Bradshaw played last season in the Australian NBL. He averaged 13.1 points and 5.7 rebounds for the Brisbane Bullets. Later he joined Efes Pilsen in Turkey for the playoff series in the Turkish league. Craig Bradshaw graduated from the Winthrop University last year. In the USA the Kiwi forward averaged 13.5 points and 6.3 rebounds in his senior year in the college. Leon tip off their season on September 19 against Gandia Basquet.

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


Paunovic inks new contract - by Kaare Vangen
Fjellhamar Stallions and Aleksandar Paunovic (205-F/C-82, agency: Global Sports Plaza) is reported by Global Sports Plaza to have come to terms with a new contract. Paunovic was Stallions leading big man last season. He had 18.9 ppg, 6.1 rebounds and shot 55.5 % from the floor. With Paunovic in the roster Stallions will have continuity as well as a good big man. Paunovic will start on his second season with Stallions. If Stallions get things right in the even matches they may be able to finish better than last seasons sixth place.

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


Purefoods off to Qatar and Singapore with three new players - by Eurobasket News
Purefoods has effected a revamp in its lineup, and it will see how the new mix works as it plays goodwill exhibition games in Qatar and Singapore.

The Giants management is signing up draftees Beau Belga (198-C-86) and Jonathan Fernandez (187-G-84), and free agents Chad Alonzo and Aaron Aban (193-G-82) before leaving for Doha, Qatar Wednesday.

'These are good pre-season training. We can't go wrong with these trips... all expenses paid which can help fast track our effort to build up the team,' said Purefoods coach Ryan Gregorio.

In Qatar, the Giants will be up against the Qatari and the Jordanian national teams. After the Qatar trip, the Giants will swing by Singapore to take on the Singapore Slingers.

'It's great to be mentioned in the same breath with Ginebra. Maybe, we're getting these invites because of it,' said Gregorio, referring to a recent survey saying Purefoods is now tied with Ginebra as the most popular teams in the PBA.

Belga, Fernandez, Alonzo and Aaron Aban are beefing up the Purefoods team now down to seven players in James Yap, Kerby Raymundo, Rico Villanueva, Roger Yap, Peter June Simon, Jondan Salvador and Chico Lanete.

Fighting out for the last three slots are Richard Yee, Ardy Larong, Rob Sanz and rookie free agent Al Vergara.

Romel Adducul has beaten cancer and is now trying to get back in shape.

'Romel is far from being competitive. He's working out and everything depends on his condition. There's always a slot reserved for him. In time, he'll be ready,' said Gregorio.

The youthful Purefoods mentor doesn't discount the possibility of trades to fill up the last three slots in the team that finished second behind Sta. Lucia Realty in last Philippine Cup.

'(Beau) Belga is a solid acquisition boosting our frontline. Chad (Alonzo), (Aaron) Aaron Aban and (Jonathan) Fernandez, at three spot, are young players but they can compete based on practice. I certainly have no problem at two-guard with James Yap and June Simon. I'm okay at the point with Roger Yap and Chico (Lanete) but I'm still looking for one and I'm seriously considering Al Vergara,' said Gregorio.

The Giants finished a game short of winning last season's Philippine Cup but struggled and eventually failed to make it past the wildcard round in the Fiesta Conference ruled by the Barangay Ginebra Kings.

Gregorio believes the Kings topped the import-reinforced tourney on sheer talent.

'Ginebra has proven that talent can win a championship. Kahit pilay-pilay na sila, but because of their talent, they were able to win. Ngayon halos lahat ng teams, direction ng Ginebra ang sinusundan,' said Gregorio.

Courtesy of www.pba.ph

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


Barreirense signed Calvin Brown - by Bruno Baltazar
FC Barreirense just signed their first import player,he is american ,25 years old of age,2.06m and goes by the name of Calvin Brown (206-C-83, agency: Court Side, college: Norfolk St.) ,he plays in the interior positions such as 4 but mainly as a center.
He played 3 years in college for Norfolk State and in his senior year in 2006/2007 he had averages of 12.9ppg, 7.6rpg, 1.2apg, 1.7bpg, FGP: 65.2%, FT: 58.6% in 30 games.
As a professional he played in Mexican top league for Tecos de la UA Guadalajara doing just 1 game: 4pts, 7reb, 3ast, 1steal, 1block, in Nov.'07 signed by Akropol BBK (SWE-Basketligan): 3 games: 4.0ppg, 4.7rpg this season he was in Team Riga (Eurobasket Summer League in New York, starting five): 14ppg 7ppg .

A option that will make this team stronger after the signing of Antonio Pires (183-G-86),Calvin is the 2nd player for this new season for FC Barreirense.

*****************************************************
  QATAR   


Purefoods off to Qatar and Singapore with three new players - by Eurobasket News
Purefoods has effected a revamp in its lineup, and it will see how the new mix works as it plays goodwill exhibition games in Qatar and Singapore.

The Giants management is signing up draftees Beau Belga (198-C-86) and Jonathan Fernandez (187-G-84), and free agents Chad Alonzo and Aaron Aban (193-G-82) before leaving for Doha, Qatar Wednesday.

'These are good pre-season training. We can't go wrong with these trips... all expenses paid which can help fast track our effort to build up the team,' said Purefoods coach Ryan Gregorio.

In Qatar, the Giants will be up against the Qatari and the Jordanian national teams. After the Qatar trip, the Giants will swing by Singapore to take on the Singapore Slingers.

'It's great to be mentioned in the same breath with Ginebra. Maybe, we're getting these invites because of it,' said Gregorio, referring to a recent survey saying Purefoods is now tied with Ginebra as the most popular teams in the PBA.

Belga, Fernandez, Alonzo and Aaron Aban are beefing up the Purefoods team now down to seven players in James Yap, Kerby Raymundo, Rico Villanueva, Roger Yap, Peter June Simon, Jondan Salvador and Chico Lanete.

Fighting out for the last three slots are Richard Yee, Ardy Larong, Rob Sanz and rookie free agent Al Vergara.

Romel Adducul has beaten cancer and is now trying to get back in shape.

'Romel is far from being competitive. He's working out and everything depends on his condition. There's always a slot reserved for him. In time, he'll be ready,' said Gregorio.

The youthful Purefoods mentor doesn't discount the possibility of trades to fill up the last three slots in the team that finished second behind Sta. Lucia Realty in last Philippine Cup.

'(Beau) Belga is a solid acquisition boosting our frontline. Chad (Alonzo), (Aaron) Aaron Aban and (Jonathan) Fernandez, at three spot, are young players but they can compete based on practice. I certainly have no problem at two-guard with James Yap and June Simon. I'm okay at the point with Roger Yap and Chico (Lanete) but I'm still looking for one and I'm seriously considering Al Vergara,' said Gregorio.

The Giants finished a game short of winning last season's Philippine Cup but struggled and eventually failed to make it past the wildcard round in the Fiesta Conference ruled by the Barangay Ginebra Kings.

Gregorio believes the Kings topped the import-reinforced tourney on sheer talent.

'Ginebra has proven that talent can win a championship. Kahit pilay-pilay na sila, but because of their talent, they were able to win. Ngayon halos lahat ng teams, direction ng Ginebra ang sinusundan,' said Gregorio.

Courtesy of www.pba.ph

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


UNICS Kazan officially inks Samoylenko - by Eurobasket News
As Eurobasket wrote about the possibility that UNICS Kazan sign Petr Samoylenko (186-G-77) very soon, it became officially announced today. The team from Kazan inked 2-year deal with Samoylenko returning him to the club where he spent the brightest moments in his career.

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.

Spartak Primorie losses vs Siena, blasts Trabzon - by Eurobasket News
Spartak Primorie played two friendly games in Italian city Bormio. In the first one Serie A champion Montepaschi Siena trashed Spartak 82-55. Siena was better team from the very beginning. After ten minutes it already had 23-13 while during the next frame Italian team let Spartak to score just 5 points. Question about the winner was already decided at that time. Siena ended third quarter 25-16 while the last was actually the only one which belonged to Spartak 21-25.

In the second game Spartak Primorie demonstrated much better performance beating Turkish Trabzon 88-65. As Siena dominated against Spartak, this time Russian team done the same to Trabzon. Nesterov was in a game mood leading his team to 35-22 at the half time. Trabzon wasn't able to resist against the Russians. They continued in the same rhythm after the breather finishing third quarter 22-19. Later the rest of the game was just the formality. Actually Spartak also won that last frame 25-24. Nesterov paced Spartak to win scoring 18 points. Andrei Trushkin (207-C/F-81) also was good adding 14 points. Ginevicius had ten while Aleksandr Fomin (206-F-86, agency: Interperformances) and Aleksandrov had 9 points apiece.

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


Djordje Drenovac in Austria, Zdravlje beat Sloga in friendly - by Dragan Jankovski
Member of Serbian U16 National Team Djordje Drenovac (197-F-92) will continue basketball career in Austrian team Arkadia Lions. Drenovac played 8 games on U16 European Championship averaging 11.9 ppg and 8.3 rpg. He had an opportunity to show up in few games in Serbian A1 league as well as in Superleague with Vizura Belgrade.

Zdravlje celebrated on the road against Sloga Kraljevo 78-76 in very interesting game. The hosts finished first quarter 20-14 but they couldn't keep it too long. During the following period it was clear that Zdavlje's players are better prepared so far. They played full-court press defense which resulted with many mistakes by Sloga. At the half time it was plus 1 for the visitors. Later, they continued in the same rhythm extending lead to big 14 points. Sloga didn't give up and through Bojovac and Bojan Petrovic (204-F/C-88) came on 76-75 with 10 seconds to go. Zdravlje was concentrated at the very end celebrating tight victory.
Mikic led Zdravlje to road win scoring 23 points. Vladica Jovanovic (202-F-83) and Marko Krstic followed him adding 12 points each. Bojovac and Bojan Petrovic netted 14 points apiece for Sloga.

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


Slovak Republic expects Sweden Spisska Nova Ves - by Eurobasket News
Slovak Republic expects Sweden Spisska Nova Ves tomorrow in the opener of their European Championship campaign. After a friendly tournament in Ukraine where Slovakia lost three in a row the team will try to improve in Division B.
The opponent Sweden beat Ireland 82:63 in their opener. As there are 5 teams in the group Slovak Republic will be the last to start. Joakim Blom scored 19 points to pace balanced Swedish team to an overwhelming win over visiting Ireland at the start of the EuroBasket in Division B tournament. Jonas Jerebko tallied 16 points and 10 rebounds for the winners as they climbed on top of Group C. The teams started the game evenly but 8 points from Mikael Lindqvist (193-G-83, agency: Court Side) gave the hosts a 15:8 lead midway through the opening stanza. Inan capped the frame with a three-pointer and Sweden led 18:11 after ten minutes of play. Ireland however opened the second frame with a 7:0 rally and tied the scoreline. Sweden found their first basket with almost 5 minutes gone in the quarter however managed to secure the lead at halftime 29:28. Sweden rushed ahead early in the third frame as they poured in 10 points in a row. Chris Bracey (198-F-80, college: W.Texas A&M) cut the deficit to 5 points late in the quarter but Sweden persisted and secured a 6-point margin before the fourth term. Kjellbom and Nystrom widened the damage and Sweden maintained the distance throughout the fourth quarter. They did not allow their opponents to get closer than 9 points in the reminder of the contest. Mikael Lindqvist contributed 13 points for the winners. Chris Bracey answered with 18 points and 6 rebounds for Irish team. Donnie McGrath (193-G-84, college: Providence) added 17 points in defeat.

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


UPC Telemach League renamed - by Zeljko Zule
Slovenian A1 League sometimes referred to as the UPC Telemach League - has been renamed to the 'UPC League', the Slovenian Basketball Federation (KZS) announced. New season will begin on October, 1.

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


Spain wants to be host of World Championship 2014 - by Eurobasket News
Spain remained one of the candidates for World Championship 2014. Country which registered fantastic successes over the past few years together with Italy, France, Denmark and China fight to host this prestigious event. On December fifth it will be know which two or three countries entered into the last stage. Five months later the name of the host country of World Championship 20014 will be announced.

Jesus Bueno, executive director of Spanish Basketball Federation, stated that Spain has strong willingness to be the host of the most prestigious basketball event, except of the Olympic Games.

'After historical success on the Olympics, our next challenge is to be the hosts of World Championship 2014. Last summer we were the hosts of Eurobasket and this year FIBA Olympic Qualifying Tournament was held here. We are ready for the next step', said Jesus Bueno.

Except of the above mentioned events, Spain also was the host of many European Championships of various ages.

'We already have huge experience with organizing many important events. Our infrastructure is on high level and we proved we are able to be the hosts of such big tournament', said Bueno.

As a reminder, Spain was the hosts of World Championship in 1986. Spaniards finished it as a fifth ranked team. What was maybe the most important that year, Spain organize this event on high level which helped it to popularize this sport and as we see now to became the World champion and Olympic Games silver medalists.

Basquet Mallorca sign Jason Keep - by Eurobasket
Basquet Mallorca (LEB Gold) strengthened their roster with addition of 30-year old American center Jason Keep (208-C-78, agency: Larry Fox Services, college: San Diego). Keep played most recently at Welcoat Dragons (Philippines). He replaced Dante Milligan (206-F-84, college: Massachusetts), who was tested in pre-season. Keep had very busy last season when he played in three countries. First he started at Basket Kwidzyn in Poland. But he left very shortly in November. Then just after New Year he signed at Al Gezira in Egypt. Finally he ended the season in the Philippines.

CB Illescas Urban CLM sign ex ESL player - by Eurobasket
CB Illescas Urban CLM (LEB Gold) signed 20-year old Belgian international center Yannick Driesen (215-C-88), who played this summer at Eurobasket Summer League in Chicago at Team London. His team won that event. He spent last season at Adecco Estudiantes playing mostly for their second team. This year he is loaned to LEB Gold team Illescas.

MMT Estudiantes Madrid sign Petar Popovic - by Eurobasket
MMT Estudiantes Madrid signed 29-year old Serbian center Petar Popovic (211-C-79). Popovic played most recently at DKV Joventut Badalona (ACB). He will replace Slovakian Martin Rancik (204-F/C-78, college: Iowa St.), who was just tested during pre-season games. Popovic may make immediate impact if he repeats last season eprformance. He helped last year Joventut in Spanish League (28 games: 4.8ppg, 1.4rpg) and especially in ULEB Cup (11 games: 9.0ppg, 2.7rpg). Joventut won last season Spanish Cup (Copa del Rey) Winner as well as ULEB Cup. Popovic used to play for Yugoslavian National Team few years ago.

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


Standings
TPBL Standings
1. HOUSTON PTS 0-0
2. CYPRESS SYNERGY 0-0
3. SAN ANGELO CHAPARRALS 0-0
4. EAST TX TRAILBLAZERS 0-0
5. CEN-TEX BLACKHAWKS 0-0
6. MIDLAND HEAT 0-0
7. LAKE JACKSON 0-0
8. WICHITA FALLS 0-0
9. DALLAS 0-0
10. GARLAND 0-0
11. SAN ANTONIO 0-0


TPBL TO HOST PRE-SEASON TOURNAMENT ( FT. WORTH ,TX) - by Chris Cardenas
DALLAS/FT.WORTH - The TPBL is inviting all men's teams out to Texas for the ' TEXAS PRO-AM SHOOT-OUT' which will be held in Ft. Worth November 15-16 2008. All teams are invited to come out and enjoy the Dallas/Ft worth night life and enjoy the great basketball talent tx has to offer. here is more information on the tournament :


what: TEXAS PRO-AM SHOOT OUT

wehn: NOVEMBER 15-16

where: FT. WORTH , TX

entry fee: $250 per team

deadline to pay/enter: NOVEMBER 10

1ST -3RD PLACE AWARDS, ALL TOURNAMENT, MVP AWARDS
1ST PLACE- $1000 CASH

TO ENTER CALL : 325-763-6630 OR EMAIL : CARDENAS_CHRIS@YAHOO.COM

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


Omer Asik seriously injured, Montepaschi better than Efes Pilsen - by Eurobasket News
Head coach of Turkish National Team Bogdan Tanjevic faced with big problem. Euroleague TOP 16 record holder with 19 blocks in 6 games Omer Asik (211-C-86) suffered serious knee injury and he will be sidelined for about six months. Injury happened during the practice of NT. It is double-problem for Bogdan Tanjevic. He won't be able to count on Asik for the rest of Eurobasket 2009 qualifications as well as during the first part of the season with Fenerbahce Ulker.

Efes Pilsen suffered defeat against Montepschi Siena in a friendly game 73-88. Italian champion took this one mostly owing to Terrell McIntyre (175-G-77, college: Clemson), who scored 17 points. Henry Domercant (192-G-80, college: E.Illinois) also was pretty good with 16 points while Marco Carraretto (196-G-77, agency: Players Group) had one point less than him. Interesting is that Romain Sato (194-G-81, college: Xavier) scored one point less than Carrareto. Preston Shumpert (198-G-79, college: Syracuse) was the best player of the Turkish giant netting 16 points. Kaya Peker (207-C/F-80, agency: Court Side) nailed 13 while Croatian center Mario Kasun (213-C-80) stopped on 11. Ex player of Montepaschi Siena Bootsy Thornton (194-G-77, college: St.John's) finished the game with 7 points.
As a reminder, in the previous game Efes Pilsen smashed Armani Jeans Milano 71-56. 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. Mario Kasun paced Efes to that victory with 15 points.

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


BC Donetsk and BC Odessa win by one - by Eurobasket News
BC Odessa beat Skyliners from Germany 89:88 in overtime. Ukrainian side looked great in the first half, but then could not compete in the second and in the majority of overtime. Odessa however used some runs in the end of the extra time to seal the win. Otis Hill (203-C-74, college: Syracuse) paced the winners with 17 points, 5 assists and 4 rebounds. Justin Love (188-G-78, college: St.Louis) added 16 points, while Fraseniuk Yurii posted 14.
BC Donetsk also triumphed with one point win over Vik from Spain. Oleg Kojenets (208-C-77, college: NC-Wilmington) led the winners with 22 points and 7 rebounds in a 94:93 victory. Martynas Andriukaitis (204-F-81) had 18 points and 5 rebounds, whilst Tecker had 17 points and 4 rebounds.
Zalgiris smashed Ukrainian Sumihimprom 91:69. It was not a difficult game for the Lithuanian team that had three massive quarters. They led the game 71:42 and after that the coach used some players to participate in the game. Mantas Kalnietis (196-G-86, agency: Interperformances) led the winners with 15 points as well as Tadas Klimavicius (204-F-82, agency: Interperformances). Maciulis Jonas nailed 14 points and Deane III Willie netted 13.
Lietuvos Rytas beat Khimik 95:79 also last night. Ukrainian side looked well in the court and made less turnovers in comparison with the winners, 16-20. Lietuvos Rytas opened the game with 25:18 and then improved to 11 points deficit at the halftime. Khimik tied the third period at 25:25 but trailed 68:57 entering the fourth quarter. With 27:22 Lithuanian squad finished the game and won the friendly. Michailas Anisimovas (211-C-84) led the winners with 21 points. Milisavljevic Branko collected 19 points and 8 rebounds, while Eidson Chuck had 16. Bratic Sasa and Famutimi Olu ended up with 15 points each in defeat. Cakic Goran and Kelly Wykeen netted 13 apiece, while Jackson Jarrius had 6.

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


Britain thrashes China at Paralympics - by Eurobasket News
Britain, the Athens Paralympics bronze medallist, overpowered China 81-34 in a wheelchair basketball Pool B preliminary game at the National Indoor Stadium on Sunday.

In another pool B match, despite trailing by 17 points at halftime, Australia earned a last-minute 73-72 victory over Brazil.

Led by center Simon Munn, who scored 19 points, and guard Jonathan Hall in 17, the British team hit 49 percent of their field goals and 52 percent of their two-point shots.

In addition to the British team's wide-margin victory, they outplayed China in rebounds 48-38, assists 13-4 and steals 8-2.

The British team scored 42 points in the paint, against China's 18 in the paint.

Although Chinese coach Xu Yuanshuang said his team's strategy was to widen their defence and play full-court press, China could not deter the pace and scoring of their opponents.

Center Yang Lei was the top Chinese scorer with 12 points, but the Chinese team minimized their challenge by counting turnovers and 20 personal fouls.

'I think my performance is good today. However, because I just came back from Spain a month ago, I didn't have enough team play and my physical strength has yet to peak,' said Chinese center Ding Hai. 'Otherwise, I think I could have played better.'

Talking about the gap with Britain, Ding said: 'Partly it is physical condition, and the more important reason is that Chinese wheelchair basketball lacks experience. We learned from today's game that we need to compete as a whole team, and rise to the occasion.'

The British contained Chinese to six points in both the second and fourth quarters.

In other preliminary matches, the United States defeated Israel 76-53; Sweden upset Japan 61-49; Iran crushed South Africa 73-62 in the opener; defending champion Canada Germany edged out Germany 62-59.

The United States outplayed Israel in both offence and defence, scoring 17 points from turnovers and 32 in the paint.

They also scored six fast break points, compared to nothing for Israel.

Twelve teams are split to two pools and the top four teams from each will progress to the quarterfinals.

Courtesy of www.english.cri.cn

The Boss Is Back - by Simon Varvakis
Great Britain International, Yorick Williams (192-G-75) (192-G-75) is back in the Black and Gold of the Milton Keynes Lions for the coming season. The colourful Manchester-born player, known as, the Boss from Moss Side, led the Lions in scoring with 15.3 points per game whilst only playing 14 minutes, whilst also shooting 43% from the floor Lions Chief, Vince Macaulay commented 'Yorick matured really well with us last season, he loved being here and we loved having him here, he is simply the most exciting player in the BBL and one of a handful of players fans actually pay good money to watch'.

Williams, a 64 shooting guard, is a previous BBL Championship and BBL Cup winner, winning that again last season with the Lions, he also featured for Chris Finchs GB squad last summer. the leading scorer on that team. Apart from the 2001-02 season, when he played for ARIS Thessaloniki in Greece, Yorick Williams has spent the entirety of his thirteen-year professional career in the BBL, and each year bringing significant impact to his teams.

'Yorick gelled well with the whole squad' added Macaulay, 'I expect him to take an even greater role this term, Yorick is already a legend to British players and leads the youngsters in letting them know how far they can go in their basketball so I am glad to have him here'.

Williams joins up with returnees, Dru Spinks, Mike New, Terrell Brown and Robert Youngblood. 'I am glad to be able to bring back the five that started the Championship Final' continued Macaulay, 'With Carl McNally joining us for the first time, and a couple more new faces to announce I have tried to blend the old with the new'

The Lions enter their first action of the new season as Team USA Select visit Milton Keynes this Friday the 12th and then they move to Leicester to face Team Meresta of Lithuania and then the first Leg of the Cup Winners Cup in Guildford on Sunday the 14th. The second leg of that competition will take place at the Bletchley Leisure Centre on Friday the 19th and the season proper opens up on the 26th of September when the Cheshire Jets are the visitors. Lions season tickets are selling fast and online tickets for the remaining games are now available


Courtesy of : http://www.bbl.org.uk

Tigers Set To Profit From Gross Investment - by George Manousidis
Everton Tigers have announced the latest addition to their squad with the capture of US star Josh Gross (198-F-83, agency: Pro One Sports, college: NC-Greensboro).

And the 25-year-old is already being tipped by Tigers' head coach to be one of the league's top players.

The high-scoring US forward was a long time target of Garbelotto as he aims for a top four finish in the team's second full BBL season, which tips off in three weeks time.

The 6ft 6in star comes from NBA development league (D-league) outfit Austin Toros, where he helped his team make last season's play-off finals.

Tony said: 'I have been tracking Josh for the whole of the summer so to be able to land a player who averaged over 14pts a game in the NBA D-league for 45 games is a fantastic signing for the Everton Tigers.

'Josh is not only an incredible athlete and exciting player but someone who values the basketball and makes the right descisions.

'I really think he will one of the top players in the BBL this coming season.'

Gross, who hails from Washington D.C, has basketball pedigree, with father Ricki playing for the US Army and brother James a college basketball star.

He has played for other NBA development league teams Florida, Albuquerque, Iowa and Los Angeles as well as a stint with Finnish outfit Kauhajoen.

Edinburgh University wins Mitie Cup - by Eurobasket News
With a little bit of help from their friends, Edinburgh University captured the men's trophy at the Mitie Cup 2K8 invitation basketball tournament, beating Aberdeen's Beacon Jazz 40-39 in an exciting final at Meadwbank last night.

The Capital students, helped by fresher Andy Smith and Edinburgh Kings' guard Eoghan Dover, appeared to be strolling to victory when they led 18-8 early on but they had reckoned without the spirit of the young Dons who pulled back to go 19-18 up. The second half was a ding-dong battle with the students just managing to retain possession successfully.

Scottish internationalists Lesley Jackson, Ali Paton and Elize Lovell helped give Polonia Phoenix the edge in the women's final against Sunshine by 30-25.

In the youths' final Edinburgh Kings beat Cumbernauld Chiefs 46-25 to win the men's title and, in the women's, the battle between the two Phoenixes saw Perth beat Polonia 25-13.

Courtesy of www.scotsman.com



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Women News

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  AUSTRALIA - Women  


Spirit sign sharp shooter - by Eurobasket News
The Bendigo Spirit has recruited sharp shooting guard Lauren King (184-G-84).

King has a great deal of WNBL experience having played for the Australian Institute of Sport and Townsville before winning a Championship with Adelaide last season.

Bendigo Spirit Head Coach Bernie Harrower said King would add much needed size and athleticism to the teams guard rotation.

Lauren is a talented scorer and good defender and will certainly help us with her extra size and experience, Harrower said.

Theres no doubt that Lauren has a lot to offer the WNBL and I expect that the Spirit will provide her with a great opportunity to perform at her best.

King played for the Bendigo Lady Braves during season.

Having Lauren already settled in Bendigo and familiar with my coaching style and many of the players wholl make up this years Spirit team has been a bonus, Harrower said.

It means shell be settled and in great shape when the season kicks off.

King said the opportunity to be a significant part of the Bendigo Spirit roster was a great opportunity and she was looking forward to being a strong contributor at both ends of the floor.

Bendigo showed last year that it was capable of mixing it with the best teams in the league and Im confident that with the team being put together this season that well be pushing for a finals spot.

Ive really enjoyed the move to Bendigo and itll be great to get the WNBL season underway.

Spirit General Manager Wendy James said that Membership packages are now finalised Adult $80.00 Junior $35.00 Family $200 (2 adults/3 children) Family $170 (2 Adults/2 children) and Young Spirit - 12 yrs and under $25.00. Anyone interested in joining the Spirit can contact Wendy on 0403 621 784 or via email bendigospirit@impulse.net.au.

This signing brings the Bendigo Spirit roster to eleven after Gabrielle Richards, Hanna Zavecz, Deanne Butler, Eleanor Haring, Louise McLean, Anna Teague, Andrea Wilson, Kelly Wilson, Jasmine Finnigan and Jane Chalmers for the 2008/09 Season.

Courtesy of Bendigo Spirit

Phillips wins 7 in a row with the Sun - by Eurobasket News
Erin Phillips (173-G-85) won 7 in a row with the Sun, but got eclipsed last night against the Stars. The San Antonio Silver Stars secured their 21st win in the season beating the Eastern leading Connecticut Sun 85:73 away from home. The guests opened the game with 23:19 in an offensive style from both teams. In the second period the tempo slowed down while the team paid more attention to defense. The Silver Stars still enjoyed 12:9 entering the second half. In order not to stop San Antonio increased to 13 points at the end of the third period after 26:20 win. Connecticut Sun could win the last period 26:25 to reduce to 85:73 at the end of the game.
Rebecca Hammon 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 secured 22 points and 10 rebounds for the winners. Ann Wauters collected 15 points, 9 rebounds and 6 assists. Asjha Jones had 22 points and 9 rebounds for the Sun. Tamika Whitmore notched 17 points in defeat. Erin Phillips made 3 rebounds and 1 assist.
Before that Tamika Whitmore scored 17 points and Barbara Turner had 16 to help the Connecticut Sun beat the Chicago Sky 80:75 Friday night. The Sun won the first half and had 4 points deficit entering the second. The Sky tied the game in the end of the third period, but the Sun won the last period 22:17 and the game itself. Erin Phillips showed 100% from the field ending up with 2 points for just 4 minutes.

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  BELGIUM - Women  


Wauters and her team clinched the postseason appearance - by Eurobasket News
The San Antonio Silver Stars secured their 21st win in the season beating the Eastern leading Connecticut Sun 85:73 away from home. The guests opened the game with 23:19 in an offensive style from both teams. In the second period the tempo slowed down while the team paid more attention to defense. The Silver Stars still enjoyed 12:9 entering the second half. In order not to stop San Antonio increased to 13 points at the end of the third period after 26:20 win. Connecticut Sun could win the last period 26:25 to reduce to 85:73 at the end of the game.
Rebecca Hammon 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 secured 22 points and 10 rebounds for the winners. Ann Wauters (194-C-80) collected 15 points, 9 rebounds and 6 assists. Asjha Jones had 22 points and 9 rebounds for the Sun. Tamika Whitmore notched 17 points in defeat.
Before that San Antonio Silver Stars clinched the postseason appearance as they knocked down the Los Angeles Sparks 76:58 at home. Edwige Lawson came up with career-high 14 points for the hosts. Ann Wauters had 12 points to secure the 20th win for the Silver Stars. Candace Parker answered with 17 points for the Sparks. Los Angeles lost the first game after 4 straight wins.

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  CANADA - Women  


Canada dominates against Netherlands in first game at Paralympics - by Eurobasket News
BEIJING - The Canadian Women's Wheelchair Basketball Team dominated in the paint as they overpowered the Netherlands 59-32 to win their first pool B preliminary game.

The defending gold medalists scored 44 points in the paint and gained 16 points from the Netherlands' 22 turnovers.

Veteran team member Chantal Benoit of Mont-Saint Hilaire. Que., was Canada's top scorer with 14 points. Misty Thomas of Vancouver, who was on the 1984 Canadian Paralympic squad, had 11 points, 10 rebounds and six assists.

The Netherlands led only once in the game, but had 46 rebounds compared to the Canadians' 36. Petra Garnier was the game's leading rebounder with 11. None of the Dutch players scored more than eight points.

Canada's next pool B game is against Japan on Tuesday (4:15 a.m. ET).

Courtesy of www.basketball.ca

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  FINLAND - Women  


SM-SARJA: Catz chose two American players - by Rauno Hurmalainen
Catz (Lappeenranta) has chosen the two American players they like best. Team's G will be Rene Haynes (178-G-85) and F Joi Scott (183-F-84, agency: Regeneracom Sports). Both players are coming to Finland this coming Friday. Haynes has played in a big school (Michigan State) and Scott comes from Murray State and is The Player of the Year -07 in Ohio Valley Conference. Scott played last season in Portugal (Acore) averaging 21,8 ppg and 8,6 rpg. Team Catz wants to win Finnish Championship in the spring 2009 - finally. To make the finals and be # 2 is not anymore enough.

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  FRANCE - Women  


NF1: Season 2008-2009 to start this weekend - by Leslie Anderson


Gruda sees Lawson in Mohegan Sun Arena - by Eurobasket News

Two French stars played against each other for their teams in WNBA. Sandrine Gruda (192-F/C-87)'s Connecticut lost to Edwige Lawson (167-G-79)'s San Antonio Silver Stars in Mohegan Sun Arena.
The San Antonio Silver Stars secured their 21st win in the season beating the Eastern leading Connecticut Sun 85:73 away from home. The guests opened the game with 23:19 in an offensive style from both teams. In the second period the tempo slowed down while the team paid more attention to defense. The Silver Stars still enjoyed 12:9 entering the second half. In order not to stop San Antonio increased to 13 points at the end of the third period after 26:20 win. Connecticut Sun could win the last period 26:25 to reduce to 85:73 at the end of the game.
Rebecca Hammon 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 secured 22 points and 10 rebounds for the winners. Edwige Lawson had 2 points, 2 assists and 1 rebound. Asjha Jones had 22 points and 9 rebounds for the Sun. Tamika Whitmore notched 17 points in defeat. Sandrine Gruda nailed 2 points and made 1 rebound.

Before that the San Antonio Silver Stars clinched the postseason appearance as they knocked down the Los Angeles Sparks 76:58 at home. Edwige Lawson (5'6''-G-79) came up with career-high 14 points for the hosts. Ann Wauters (6'5''-C-80) had 12 points to secure the 20th win for the Silver Stars. Candace Parker (6'4''-F/C-86, college: Tennessee) answered with 17 points for the Sparks. Los Angeles lost the first game after 4 straight wins.




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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 in her senior year. 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 didn't 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.

Grujic leaves Leipzig - by Moritz Korff
Smiljana Grujic (181-G-87) has been released from her contract with the BBV Leipzig Eagles, as the DBBL-club announced today. 'She certainly has the potential to become a good player, but she is not what we are looking for at the moment', Leipzig Coach Ritz Ingram stated in a press release. The 20-year-old Serb had been signed only three weeks ago. A new player for her position has not been found yet. To replace Grujic, Coach Ingram would prefer to add a young German.

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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 Aris Mavridis , 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.

Transfer news - by Chris Mammides

Paghiakos agreed financial terms with the American Kimberly Williams (168-G-74, agency: Merit Sports, college: De Paul) ex player of Megas Alexandros who had a wonderfull seazon in the previous seazon. Head Coach of Paghiakos Nikos Tolias added experience and good organisational skills in his team.
AO Paleo Faliro Pireus agreed financial terms with the American player Kate Achter (173-G-86), the talented guard graduated from the Bowling Green where she played basketball with very good stats as in her last seazon she had 15ppg, 3rpg and 7apg!!.

Panionios agreed financial terms with the experienced American player Sheri Lynette Sam (183-F/G-74, college: Vanderbilt)

Eleni Kapogianni will be the new assistant Coach in the team of Athinaikos.




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  NCAA1 - Women  


Two UR basketball coaches violated NCAA rules - by Eurobasket News
Two University of Richmond basketball coaches, one in the men's program and one in the women's program, have resigned since the end of the 2007-08 season. The reason was violation of NCAA rules regarding communication with recruits via text messages and telephone calls in 2007.

The coaches are Carlin Hartman in the men's program and Chris Carroll in the women's program.

The NCAA has completed its investigation, and UR expects to receive a full report from the NCAA in the next month.

Richmond self-reported the violations to the NCAA and self-imposed recruiting restrictions. Those actions may allow UR to avoid additional NCAA sanctions. Though probation is likely.

Courtesy of www.inrich.com

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  PORTUGAL - Women  


CF Uniao signed Rosinha Rosario and Carla Aires - by Bruno Baltazar
Next season CF Uniao will compete in the portuguese league ,portuguese cup and Vitor Hugo cup and they just signed 2 portuguese players both that came from Escola Secundario da Amadora .
Rosinha Rosario is international under 20 and played in the past European division B in Poland averaging 4,8 pts, 5,2 rebounds and 0,8 assists in 21,2 minuts ,shes 20 years old ,1.81m ,she played as well for under 16 and under18 portuguese teams ,shes forward ,born in Italy but represents Portugal .

Carla Aires (182-F-82) has more experience ,25 yrs old,1.85m ,center,both players will only arrive in Madeira island in the last week of September ,same time their 2 foreign players will also come.

Patricia Penicheiro reach WNBA record 2.000 assists - by Bruno Baltazar
Patricia Penicheiro (180-G-74, college: ODU) became the first player in league history to record 2,000 assists on Friday during Sacramentos defeat in Phoenix.
Her eight dimes on Sunday in a victory over the Lynx, nonetheless, helped the Monarchs inch closer to securing their sixth straight playoff berth.
A historical market for womans professional basketball and another great thing did by our portuguese player.This WNBA season is been showing tremendous achievings and the Monarchs have 2 games left in the regular season and its unlikly they will miss the playoffs.

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  ROMANIA - Women  


Transfer Market - by Nagy Szilveszter

Porter-Talbert & Denson sign in Romania

Tiffany Porter-Talbert (170-G-84, college: W.Kentucky) and Amy Denson (186-F-84, college: Arizona St.) have signed to play in Romania for BC Teleorman Alexandria. They will play a qualifying round against Crvena Zvezda Beograd to get into Group C with Elitzur Ramla, Dunav Econt Rouse and Rivas Futura. Last season, Denson played in Poland and Puerto Rico. Porter-Talbert played in Finland in 07-08 and in Romania in 06-07. Amy, 24, played recently at Montaneras de Morovis (Puerto Rico) and she was 2-Time MVP of Puerto Rican league (2006,2007). Tiffany, 23, played recently at Kotka Peli-Karhut (Finland), but in the 06/07 season she played for Targoviste (Romania). Her honours: Selected in 3rd round by Los Angeles Sparks (2006), Romanian Player of the Year (2007), Import Player of the Year (2007), All First Team (2007), All Imports Team (2007), All Defensive Team (2007), All Star Game MVP (2007), 17.3 points, 8.4 boards & 3.2 assists (2007). Here are the roster: Bianca Barbu (169-G-90), Alina Chivu (180-F-90), Amy Denson, Diana Epure (170-G-89), Cristina Gheta (180-C-90), Mihaela Mihai (165-G-90), Tiffany Porter-Talbert, Viorela Rus (184-F-87), Anca Sipos (183-F/C-85), Andreea Stramaturaru (175-F-90) and Crenguta Teodorescu (176-F-90).

CSS LMK Sf. Gheorghe signed the 22-year old American guard, Sharnee Zoll (170-G-86, college: Virginia). She is the first American player of the club. Sf. Gheorghe's full-roster: Judit Kajdacsi (191-C-79, agency: Laszlo Vinko Services), Ildiko Vass (178-G-78), Ildiko Nagy (187-F-84), Salimata Diatta (178-F/G-81), Olga Cazac (190-C-74), Erzsebet Ambrus (187-F-72), Noemi Bordas (183-C-87), Eniko Kovesdi (171-G/F-82), Agnes Nemeth (181-F-80), Emoke Sandor (171-G-85), Andrea Sinka (179-F-91), Sharnee Zoll and Irena Matovic (186-F-88). The head coach is: Csaba Deri .

BC CSS MCM Targoviste has signed the following players: Monika Bukovszki (171-G-79), Nikolett Turoczi (187-F/C-80), Olga Masilionene (181-F-80, agency: LBM Management), Radostina Slavova (186-F-86), Chrissy Givens (180-G-85, agency: LBM Management, college: Middle Tenn.St.) and Danijela Varda (195-C-74). In the next days will come a player from Puerto Rico.

BC ICIM Arad signed the 21-year old Serbian guard Maja Scekic (170-G-87). She played recently at Spartak Subotica (Serbia). She replace Andreea Pinter, who return to Serbia because she has got family problems. Arad has got Alexandra Cutas (178-F-82) to a contract.

CSM Satu Mare signed from U Trustul Cre Cluj Napoca the 26-year old American guard Cherrisse Graham (171-G-82, agency: Merit Sports).



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  RUSSIA - Women  


Abrosimova looks more confident - by Eurobasket News
Russian star Svetlana Abrosimova (188-F-80, college: Connecticut) becomes hotter in WNBA for her team. The San Antonio Silver Stars however secured their 21st win in the season beating the Eastern leading Connecticut Sun 85:73 away from home. The guests opened the game with 23:19 in an offensive style from both teams. In the second period the tempo slowed down while the team paid more attention to defense. The Silver Stars still enjoyed 12:9 entering the second half. In order not to stop San Antonio increased to 13 points at the end of the third period after 26:20 win. Connecticut Sun could win the last period 26:25 to reduce to 85:73 at the end of the game.
Rebecca Hammon 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 secured 22 points and 10 rebounds for the winners. Ann Wauters collected 15 points, 9 rebounds and 6 assists. Asjha Jones had 22 points and 9 rebounds for the Sun. Tamika Whitmore notched 17 points in defeat. Svetlana Abrosimova posted 9 points and made 6 rebounds.
Before that Tamika Whitmore scored 17 points and Barbara Turner had 16 to help the Connecticut Sun beat the Chicago Sky 80:75 Friday night. The Sun won the first half and had 4 points deficit entering the second. The Sky tied the game in the end of the third period, but the Sun won the last period 22:17 and the game itself. Svetlana Abrosimova colected 6 points and 2 rebounds for the winners.

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  SERBIA - Women  


Serbia waits Belgium tomorrow in crucial game - by Dragan Jankovski
Serbian National Team suffered two defeats at the beginning of Eurobasket 2009 qualifications but it was clear that inexperience of its players is the main reason for 0-2. However, Serbians showed its real face in Athens this week-end. They demonstrated really good performance, especially at the defensive end, what was enough for extremely important win. Tomorrow at 18h in Nis Serbia will meet Belgium. In the first game Belgians celebrated 73-60. In order to stay in the race for one of the first two places in Group D, Serbia has to beat Belgium.

Power forward / center Jelena Milovanovic (191-F/C-89) stated that everything depends on Serbia now.

'Nothing is not over yet. We won in Greece but we have to celebrate in other two games. The good thing is that everything it's up to us now. Tomorrow we will meet Belgium and we have to try to celebrate with more than 13 points. It could be very important at the end. I am saying that because there is a possibility that three teams have the same score after six games. We have to focus on tomorrow's game and to play as good as we played last quarter in Athens. We showed we can play tough and without mistakes. In that case, I think we won't have any problems with Belgium, said Jelena Milovanovic.

In the first game against Belgium Serbia had plus 13 at the half time but after that moment players of head coach Antonic somehow stopped playing. Belgium exploited that chance registering comfortably win at the end.

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  SOUTH AFRICA - Women  


South African girls inspired by NBA - by Eurobasket News
JOHANNESBURG, South Africa: The American men were from the NBA, and the woman leading Sunday's basketball clinic had an Olympic gold medal. But the young South African women they were coaching weren't star-struck.

'I was not intimidated,' said Nthabiseng Tshabalala, an 18-year-old guard from the Johannesburg area. 'I was just happy that some people had thought about us.'

After holding clinics for boys and young men from across the continent in South Africa for the last six years - helping build both a fan base and pool of recruits - the NBA held its first camp for girls on Sunday.

The 60 participants spent two hours on the courts of a Johannesburg high school with Jennifer Azzi, who led Stanford to a collegiate national championship in 1990 and was part of the U.S. team that won Olympic gold in 1996. She went on to spend five seasons in the WNBA.

Coaches from the New York Knicks, Portland Trailblazers and Golden State Warriors joined Azzi. Earlier in the week, she had helped coach the male clinics along with players like Caron Butler of the Washington Wizards.

Azzi didn't just share the finer points of shooting and passing. She urged the young women to take their confidence and competence off the court, and not be afraid to shatter stereotypes about a woman's place in this traditional society.

'You're changing the culture of South Africa for women,' she told the group.

In an interview, Azzi said progress had been made in the U.S., 'but it's still not quite there yet.' The WNBA has helped professional women athletes earn respect. Now, she said, it needs larger audiences and better salaries.

'You have to figure out the marketing part of it,' she said.

Earlier in the week, Azzi sat down with players from the University of Johannesburg women's basketball and volleyball teams. One young athlete came in eating ice cream and became so engrossed in their discussion she let her treat melt, her forgotten spoon dangling near her cheek.

The women spoke of fathers who thought their daughters should be home cooking dinner instead of at practice. Azzi told them her own parents were supportive, but she had an aunt and uncle who thought she was 'the weirdest kid' because she was doing what boys did.

'But let me tell you something: When I got to the Olympics, my aunt and uncle were my best friends,' she said.

Ilse Jenneker, a University of Johannesburg volleyball player, said she was surprised to hear an American woman had faced familiar obstacles.

'It is encouraging to know that everywhere, females are going through the same thing. It's not just Africa,' Jenneker said. 'It makes things so much better if you know people are going through the same things you are.'

While she was clearly a role model for women, in an interview Sunday, Azzi said she had been uncertain how she would be received by the young men. But she said her NBA colleagues made sure the players listened to 'Coach Azzi.'

Then the NBA coaches rallied to her clinic.

The clinic Sunday 'was amazing and inspiring,' said Guguletu Baloyi, a 17-year-old guard from the Johannesburg area. 'These NBA people are here to teach us. They usually focus on the boys.'

Courtesy of www.iht.com

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  SWITZERLAND - Women  


Fribourg Basket inks Tereza Brantlova - by Eurobasket News
Fribourg Basket announced signing of Tereza Brantlova (172-G-82) for season 2008/09. Fribourg ended last one as a sixth ranked team in LNA with score 6-15. Riva Basket knocked them out 2-0 in the play-off quarterfinalns. After signing of Brentlova it seems Fribourg will have much bigger ambitions for the upcoming season.

Tereza Brantlova played 07/08 for Russian team Shelen-ETK Krasnoyarsk. She appeared 14 times in Russian Superleague averaging 7.2 ppg, 2.8 rpg and 2.1 apg. In February she parted ways with the team. Before Krasnoyarsk, Brentlova played for Hungarian DKSK Miskolc having pretty god digits in A1. For 25 games she added 12.7 ppg, 2.4 rpg, 3.3 apg and 3.4 spg. She helped Miskolc to reach the semifinals of Hungarian National Cup that season. As a member of USK Blex Praha Brentova was finalist of Czechs D1 twice. Interesting is that Brentlova was big prospect in Czech Republic at the beginning of decade. She played for U20 Czech R. which went Gold on U20 European Championship in 2002. She also has Gold medal on World Championship with U18 NT. With the same team she won the Silver on U18 Eurobasket in 2000.

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  WNBA - Women  


Indiana narrowly beat Atlanta - by Eurobasket News
The Indiana Fever sealed their playoff spot as they held off the Atlanta Dream 81:77 away from home yesterday. LaTanya White (5'7''-G-82, college: Mississippi St.) knocked down 24 points to pace the Fever to the 15th win in the season. Indiana won the third out of the last four games. Atlanta is meanwhile closing on the worst WNBA record for any expansion team as they are 3-29 at the moment.
The visitors got to a better start to the game and led 19:15 after ten minutes of action. They maintained the advantage throughout the second quarter and led 34:30 at the interval. The situation never changed after the long break as Indiana remained ahead. LaTanya White chipped in straight trebles early in the fourth term to open a double-digit advantage. However Erika De Souza and Alison Bales (6'7''-C-85, college: Duke) cut the distance to just one point with under 4 minutes remaining. Later Iziane Castro (6'0''-G/F-82) drained a three-pointer to tie the scoreline at 72. Latta put Atlanta in front 74:73 with just over a minute left. But LaTanya White and Tamika Catchings (6'1''-F-79, college: Tennessee) scored the final 5 points of the encounter to secure the win for the Fever. Tamika Catchings had 20 points, 10 boards and 6 assists for Indiana. Tammy Sutton-Brown added 15 points in the win. Betty Lennox (5'8''-G-76, college: Louisiana Tech) answered with 19 points for Atlanta. Feenstra netted 15 points in a losing effort.

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. Indiana F. 12-14 
 10. Houston C. 12-15 
 11. Minnesota L. 11-15 
 12. Chicago Sky 11-17 
 13. Washingt. M. 9-18 
 14. Charlotte S. 0-0