EUROBASKET NEWS REPORT - 1/23/2009

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Men News

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


Arizona suspend games. Another casualty in the ABA ? - by Gianni Pascucci
According with local media 'The Daily Courier', the Arizona Rhinos, ABA franchise announced that there will be no more team games until further notice. 'Games will be suspended until we resolve scheduling issues,' Rhinos owner Kisha Spellman-White said in a statement Tuesday. 'Further notice will be given.' The Rhinos' next scheduled game should have been this Sunday at San Diego, but that team ceased operations in December.

*****************************************************
  ADRIATIC LEAGUE   


Adriatic-League Round: 18 (Regular Season) - by Eurobasket News
Krka - Hemofarm 74-75
Hemofarm grabbed tiny road victory in Novo Mesto improving on 14-4 record, what is still more than enough for third place. Milan Macvan (205-F/C-89) led the winners with 22 points and 5 rebounds. Milovoje Bozovic also shined collecting 18 points and 6 boards, while Stefan Markovic added 15 points, 6 rebs and 8 assists. Richard Shields answered with 33 points and 6 rebounds for the hosts. His Krka joined Split with 6-12.

Helios - Zadar 94-92 OT1
Helios grabbed the fourth victory this season crushing the reigning Croatian champion in over time. Nicholas Jacobson (195-G-80, agency: Pro One Sports, college: Utah) was a key player for the hosts nailing 33 points and grabbing 9 rebounds (8 triples). Alvin Snow helped with 23 pts. On the other side, Todor Gecevski had 25 points and 12 boards. Helios 4-14, Zadar 12-6.

Partizan - KK Zagreb 81-64
The defending champion was too strong for the last-ranked KK Zagreb joining Crvena Zvezda with 16-2 score. Novica Velickovic (205-F-86) came up with 21 points and 13 rebounds for the hosts. Petar Bozic added 12 pts. Ante Tomic replied with double-double in loss, 18 pts and 10 boards. Zagreb 3-15.

Bosna S. - Buducnost 79-75
Bosna grabbed 4-point home win against the Montenegrin champ mostly owing to Goran Ikonic (196-G-80) and his 22 points. Elvir Ovcina had 15 pts and 11 rebounds, while Dusan Djordjevic also netted 15. Vladimir Micov was the best in loss collecting 18 points, 9 rebounds and 4 assists. Buducnost 11-6 (6th place).

Cibona - FMP 85-78
After this victory Cibona and Zadar have the same 12-6 record sharing the 4th-5th place in the league. Davor Kus (192-G-78) scored 23, Nikola Prkacin 20 (plus 7 rebounds) and Earl Calloway added 16 points, 7 rebounds and 7 assists for Cibona. Dragan Labovic had 22 points and 7 boards in FMP (8-10).

KK Split - Crvena Zvez. 62-67
Crvena Zvezda managed to beat KK Split on the road in the opening game of Round 18. It means that Serbian representative jumped on 16-2 record remaining on top of the regional champion, thanks to 81-80 victory against Partizan in Round 8. Mirko Kovac (199-F-83, agency: Beo Basket) top-scored for the winning squad with 14 points (4 triples). Marko Marinovic netted 13, while Elmedin Kikanovic stopped on 9 points. Sinisa Stemberger was the best in loss draining 18 points. KK Split dropped on 6-12.

Vojvodina - U.Olimpija 80-82
Jasmin Hukic (204-G/F-79, agency: Beo Basket), who nailed 22 points and pulled down 9 rebounds, paced Union Olimpija to tiny road win against Vojvodina. Aleksej Nesovic and Vladimir Golubovic were behind him with 13 pts apiece. Charron Fisher and Dejan Borovnjak had 17 and 16 points respectively for Vojvodina (4-14).

Standings
Adriatic L. Standings
 1. Partizan 16-2 
 2. Crvena Zvez. 16-2 
 3. Hemofarm 14-4 
 4. Cibona 12-6 
 5. Zadar 12-6 
 6. Buducnost 11-7 
 7. FMP 8-10 
 8. Bosna S. 7-11 
 9. Olimpija 7-11 
 10. KK Split 6-12 
 11. Krka 6-12 
 12. Vojvodina 4-14 
 13. Helios 4-14 
 14. KK Zagreb 3-15 


Stats Leaders

Points Per Game
 Dragan LABOVIC
  FMP
  (207-C/F-87)
  Avg: 19.2
 1. Labovic, FMP19.2 
 2. Shields, Krka16.3 
 3. Jacobson, Helios15.7 
 4. Ikonic, Bosna S.15.2 
 5. Tomic, KK Zagreb15.0 
 6. Shannon, KK Split14.7 
 7. Stemberger, KK Sp.14.7 
 8. Gecevski, Zadar14.2 
 9. Micov, Buducnost14.1 
 10. Simon, KK Zagr.13.6 
Rebounds Per Game
 Ante TOMIC
  KK Zagreb
  (217-C-87)
  Avg: 8.7
 1. Tomic, KK Zagreb8.7 
 2. Samardziski, FMP7.2 
 3. Gecevski, Zadar7.2 
 4. Borovnjak, Vojvo.7.1 
 5. Lasme, Partizan6.7 
 6. Ivanov, Zadar6.7 
 7. Velickovic, Partizan6.6 
 8. Pavic, Krka6.5 
 9. Fisher, Vojvodina5.9 
 10. Labovic, F.5.9 
Assists Per Game
 Vlado ILIEVSKI
  Tau
  (190-G-80)
  Avg: 4.5
 1. Ilievski, U.Olimpija4.5 
 2. Shannon, KK Split4.2 
 3. Dordevic, Bosna S.4.1 
 4. Stipcevic, Zadar3.8 
 5. Mocnik, Helios3.5 
 6. Dixon, Zadar3.4 
 7. Calloway, Cibona3.3 
 8. Covic, FMP3.2 
 9. Popovic, Vojvodina3.2 
 10. Marinovic, Crvena.3.1 
Steals Per Game
 Eddie SHANNON
  KK Split
  (180-G-76)
  Avg: 2.3
 1. Shannon, KK Split2.3 
 2. Dasic, Buducnost2.2 
 3. Calloway, Cibona1.9 
 4. Micov, Buducnost1.9 
 5. Markovic, Hemofarm1.8 
 6. Mocnik, Helios1.7 
 7. Ozbolt, U.Olimpija1.7 
 8. Peric, Zadar1.6 
 9. Otasevic, Buducnost1.6 
 10. Popovic, Vojvodi.1.6 
Blocks Per Game
 Mirza BEGIC
  U.Olimpija
  (218-C-85)
  Avg: 2.5
 1. Begic, U.Olimpija2.5 
 2. Lasme, Partizan1.9 
 3. Vranes, Partizan1.6 
 4. Samardziski, FMP1.4 
 5. Bajic, Vojvodina1.3 
 6. Zimic, Bosna S.1.2 
 7. Misanovic, Buduc.1.2 
 8. Gecevski, Zadar1.1 
 9. Tomic, KK Zagreb1.1 
 10. Zoric, KK Zagr.1.1 


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  ARGENTINA   


Standings - LigaA
LigaA Standings
 1. Atenas 39-5 
 2. Independ.N. 36-5 
 3. Estudiantes 35-0 
 4. Libertad 34-5 
 5. Penarol 33-0 
 6. Gimn.CR 33-5 
 7. Sionista 32-5 
 8. El Nacional 32-5 
 9. Regatas C. 31-0 
 10. Obras 30-0 
 11. Cicl.Olimpico 30-5 
 12. Quilmes MP 30-5 
 13. Boca Jrs 29-5 
 14. Lanus 28-0 
 15. Quimsa 28-5 
 16. Ben Hur 26-5 


Stats Leaders - LigaA

Points Per Game
 Cedric MOODIE
  Independ.N.
  (187-G-78)
  Avg: 20.7
 1. Moodie, Independ.20.7 
 2. Nelson, Estudiantes20.7 
 3. Mazzaro, Quimsa18.4 
 4. Jackson, Penarol18.1 
 5. Assie, Independ.N.17.8 
 6. Robinson, Sionista17.6 
 7. Taylor, Lanus17.5 
 8. Glover, Cicl.Olimpico17.4 
 9. Osborne, Libertad16.2 
 10. Gomez, El Nacion.16.0 
Rebounds Per Game
 Federico KAMMERICHS
  Regatas C.
  (203-F-80)
  Avg: 10.7
 1. Kammerichs, Regat.10.7 
 2. Assie, Independ.N.8.7 
 3. Williams, Cicl.Oli.8.5 
 4. Nelson, Estudiantes8.0 
 5. Levy, Estudiantes7.8 
 6. Taylor, Lanus7.4 
 7. Borrell, Obras7.3 
 8. Gomez, El Nacional7.3 
 9. Osborne, Libertad7.1 
 10. Kante, Aten.7.1 
Assists Per Game
 Hernando SALLES
  Quilmes MP
  (188-G-79)
  Avg: 4.8
 1. Salles, Quilmes MP4.8 
 2. Rodriguez, Penarol4.1 
 3. Treise, Quimsa4.0 
 4. Cantero, Sionista3.8 
 5. Franco, Estudiantes3.8 
 6. Olmedo, Lanus3.2 
 7. Titarelli, Obras3.1 
 8. La Bella, Estudiantes3.0 
 9. Montecchia, Regat.2.9 
 10. Villares, Sionis.2.8 
Steals Per Game
 Anthony JOHNSON
  Hebraica
  (198-G/F-79)
  Avg: 6.7
 1. Johnson, Boca Jrs6.7 
 2. Assie, Independ.N.2.7 
 3. Marin, Independ.N.2.6 
 4. Moodie, Independ.2.4 
 5. Aguirre, Boca Jrs2.2 
 6. Casini, Boca Jrs2.1 
 7. Treise, Quimsa2.0 
 8. Sciutto, Gimn.CR1.9 
 9. Glover, Cicl.Olimpico1.8 
 10. Bortz, Boca J.1.8 
Blocks Per Game
 Ramel ALLEN
  Quimsa
  (210-C-79)
  Avg: 1.9
 1. Allen, Quimsa1.9 
 2. Smith, Quimsa1.9 
 3. Bortz, Boca Jrs1.9 
 4. Miller, Quimsa1.9 
 5. Moore, El Nacional1.5 
 6. Smith, Lanus1.3 
 7. Kammerichs, Regat.1.3 
 8. Assie, Independ.N.1.1 
 9. Gonzalez, Penarol0.9 
 10. Williams, Cicl.O.0.9 


Standings - Liga B
Liga Standings
North Region-Northeast
 1. Rocamora 9-5 
 2. Alvear 9-5 
 3. La Union 8-6 
 4. Estudian.C. 8-6 
 5. Colon SF 8-6 
 6. Union Fuerza 6-8 
 7. Sport Club 5-9 
 8. Almagro 3-11 
North Region-Northwest
 1. Banda Norte 11-3 
 2. Sportivo 7 J. 9-5 
 3. Brown SV 9-5 
 4. Facundo 8-6 
 5. Anzorena 7-7 
 6. Barrio Parque 5-9 
 7. Union E. 5-9 
 8. Sargento 2-12 
South Region-Center
 1. Gimnasia VP 12-2 
 2. Velez Sarsfield 8-6 
 3. Rosario Cent. 7-7 
 4. Racing G. 7-7 
 5. San Martin J. 7-7 
 6. Banco Nacion 6-8 
 7. Nautico Hacoaj 5-9 
 8. Gimnasia BR 4-10 
South Region-South
 1. Jorge Newbery 9-5 
 2. Huracan 8-6 
 3. Ciud.Bragado 8-6 
 4. Deportivo M. 7-7 
 5. Union Vecinal 7-7 
 6. Independ.T. 6-8 
 7. Atletico Regina 6-8 
 8. El Sureno 5-9 


Halcones Xalapa account for Quimsa - by Eurobasket News
Halcones Xalapa - Quimsa 103:69

Mexican powerhouse Halcones Xalapa continued to impress the fans in Liga Americas Group D action. They raced to another overwhelming victory yesterday. They took the scalp of Argentinean Quimsa to set up the decisive battle against Soles de Mexicali for the Final Four spot.
The first term was an even contest and never spoke of the final outcome. Quimsa led early on before Dontae Truitt (198-G/F-81, college: Georgia SW) gave Halcones a 20:18 advantage late in the period. Julio Mazzaro (186-G-79) and Juan Torres (195-G-83) responded with consecutive buckets for Quimsa as the visitors gained a 22:20 lead at the first intermission. LeRoy Hickerson (196-G-82, college: Cumberlands) stepped up for the hosts in the second frame as his points helped them to gain control. Halcones surged ahead and built a 47:36 advantage at halftime. The breakthrough for the home team came in the third stanza. Halcones spun the lead out to 22 points 63:41 and took the initiative. Quimsa never got back to life as they lost the final term 14:26 and surrendered in the battle. Dontae Truitt scored 24 points and pulled down 7 rebounds for Halcones. LeRoy Hickerson had 22 points, 6 rebounds and 4 assists in the win. Gabriel Mikulas (201-F-80, agency: Interperformances, college: E.Carolina) answered with 17 points for Quimsa. Julio Mazzaro banked 14 points in defeat.

Halcones: Dontae Truitt 24, LeRoy Hickerson 22, Victor Avila (209-C-77, college: Oklahoma), Raymond Castillo (196-G/F-82, college: UTPA) 12
Quimsa: Gabriel Mikulas 17, Julio Mazzaro 14

LigaA Round: 15 (Regular Season, second phase) - by Eurobasket News
Boca Jrs - Gimn.CR 98-97
Boca Juniors escaped with a tiny home victory against Gimnasia CR for 6-9 record in the second phase. Juan Espil (193-G-68, agency: Interperformances) was a key player for the hosts draining 20 points and grabbing 8 rebounds. Gabriel Fernandez also shined netting 18 pts. On the other side, German Sciutto had 19 pts and 6 rebs, while Diego Romero added 18 points and 9 boards.

Independ.N. - Lanus 84-66
Brice Assie and Cedric Moodie stepped up for the hosts delivering 19 points each. Assie also had 10 rebounds beside that. Federico Marin was behind them with 15 pts and 5 rebs. Lanus got the most from Terrell Taylor, 19 points.

Cicl.Olimpico - Obras 84-89
Fernando Titarelli and Erron Maxey combined 47 points and 12 rebounds for Obras pacing it to important road victory against Ciclista Olimpico. Marion Byro answered for the hosts nailing 19 pts. Both teams entered into this game with 6-8 record in the second phase.

Regatas C. - Atenas 64-73
The top ranked Atenas didn't have any troubles to beat Regatas on the road 73-64. Bruno Labaque, who came off the bench, paced Atenas to this victory delivering 23 points. Leonardo Gutierrez added 14. Experienced Federico Kammerichs had 12 points and the same number of rebounds for Regatas.

Estudiantes - Penarol 76-64
Estudiantes grabbed another victory in Liga A thanks to Edward Nelson, who this time drained 24 points and grabbed 6 rebounds. Byron Johnson was on high level in loss registering double-double, 19 points and 11 boards. Estudiantes remains on third place, behind Atenas and independiente.

Libertad - Ben Hur 78-69
9th victory for Livertad in the second phase. Jason Osborne came up with 17 points and 9 rebounds, Willie Farley scored 14 and Martin Muller added 12 pts. Eduardo Calvelli posted 14 for poor Ben Hur.

Quilmes MP - El Nacional 68-71
The box-score will be available soon.

Sionista - Quimsa
The game is scheduled for February 4.

Problems in Ben Hur - by Facundo Iatzky
Former Liga A champion Ben Hur Rafaela is not in a good moment. They are last in the standings and the economic situation is bad. That caused some changes in the rosters. The first player who left the team was Patricio Rodriguez who moved to Obras. Then the club decided cut coach Luis Orono due to the bad performance and the following day Durelle Brown was released because the player refused to play one game. Durelle could sign in Regatas Corrientes. The last movement was confirmed yesterday. Mariano Castets (188-G-83), the starter playmaker was signed by El Nacional. He will replace Fabian Sahdi, injured last week. Changes could continue this week.

LDLA: No more argentinian teams - by Facundo Iatzky
With the loose of Quimsa last night, Argentina will not have any team in the final 4 of the second edition of Liga de las Americas. This was not a good international season for agentinian teams. Both Regatas and Penarol were elimnated in Mar del Plata by Bigua, After Libertad lost at home too against Universo and now Quimsa is out after loose against Halcones. The first edition of LDLA was won by Penarol. Argentinian teams should be more focused in the next season (2009/10) because the tournament will give two places to the world tournament.

*****************************************************
  AUSTRALIA   


Nathan Jawai makes NBA debut with Toronto Raptors - by Eurobasket News
Former National Basketball League Rookie of the Year Nathan Jawai (6'10''-C-86, college: Midland CC) made history today when he took the court for the Toronto Raptors in America's NBA.

Jawai, wearing jersey number 21, entered Toronto's match against the Pistons at The Palace of Auburn Hills in Detroit with three minutes and four seconds remaining in the final period and became the first indigenous Australian to play in the NBA.

He was called for a travelling violation seventeen seconds later and failed to score a point or register a rebound in the final minutes of the match which Detroit won comfortably, 95-76.

Jawai, who hails from Bamaga in Far North Queensland, has endured a frustrating rookie season in America's elite competition after Raptors medical staff discovered an irregularity in his heart during routine cardiac testing.

The 22-year old, 208cm forward was sidelined for the entirety of October's pre-season while further tests were undertaken and the weeks of waiting frustratingly turned into months.

Forty-three (of eighty-two) regular season games passed with Jawai on the sidelines until today's game.

With a 16-28 win-loss record, Toronto sits in last place of the Atlantic Division behind Boston, Philadelphia, New Jersey and New York, and is thirteenth of 15 teams in the Eastern Conference.

Jawai, who was selected 41st overall in last year's NBA Draft, may see more court time soon with three Toronto games scheduled this week before the injury-riddled Raptors face Andrew Bogut's Milwaukee Bucks on the last day of the month.

Bogut has missed Milwaukee's last four games with back spasms and is in doubt for Saturday's road match against Atlanta but may return to the lineup on Tuesday against Minnesota.


Upcoming Toronto Raptors games:

@ Chicago - 12:3 0pm AEDT on Saturday 24 Jan
vs Sacramento - 10:00am AEDT on Monday 26 Jan
@ New Jersey - 11:30am AEDT on Thursday 29 Jan
vs Milwaukee - 11:00am AEDT Saturday 31 Jan

Courtesy of the NBL (www.nbl.com.au)

Standings - NBL
NBL Standings
 1. Melbourne SD 18-6 
 2. Melbourne T. 16-8 
 3. N.Zealand B. 16-8 
 4. Townsville C. 14-12 
 5. Perth W. 13-12 
 6. Adelaide 36ers 13-13 
 7. Sydney S. 11-13 
 8. Cairns T. 9-15 
 9. Wollongong 9-16 
 10. Gold Coast B. 5-21 


Stats Leaders - NBL

Points Per Game
 Kirk PENNEY
  Breakers
  (194-G-80)
  Avg: 28.2
 1. Penney, Breakers28.2 
 2. Ere, Tigers27.8 
 3. Whitehead, Blaze24.0 
 4. Redhage, Wildcats21.5 
 5. Williams, Crocodiles19.5 
 6. Ballinger, 36ers18.3 
 7. Franklin, Hawks18.2 
 8. Worthington, Drago.18.0 
 9. Bowen, Blaze18.0 
 10. Tragardh, Haw.16.8 
Rebounds Per Game
 Luke WHITEHEAD
  Blaze
  (199-F-81)
  Avg: 13.8
 1. Whitehead, Blaze13.8 
 2. Schenscher, 36ers10.5 
 3. Anstey, Tigers9.8 
 4. Rickert, Breakers9.8 
 5. Gruber, Spirit9.7 
 6. Ellis, Crocodiles9.3 
 7. Crosswhite, Taipa.9.3 
 8. Ballinger, 36ers8.5 
 9. Saville, Hawks8.4 
 10. Rychart, Haw.8.0 
Assists Per Game
 Paul HENARE
  Breakers
  (182-G-79)
  Avg: 5.4
 1. Henare, Breakers5.4 
 2. Crosswell, Tigers5.2 
 3. Bruce, 36ers4.8 
 4. Saville, Hawks4.6 
 5. Heal, Blaze4.5 
 6. Mee, Taipans4.5 
 7. Whitehead, Blaze4.3 
 8. Maher, 36ers4.0 
 9. Hinson, Wildcats4.0 
 10. Ingles, Drago.3.8 
Steals Per Game
 Justin BOWEN
  Blaze
  (200-F-83)
  Avg: 2.5
 1. Bowen, Blaze2.5 
 2. Saville, Hawks2.4 
 3. Bruton, Breakers2.3 
 4. Williams, Taipans2.0 
 5. Barlow, Tigers2.0 
 6. Ellis, Crocodiles1.8 
 7. Crawford, Wildcats1.8 
 8. Smith, Dragons1.7 
 9. Ere, Tigers1.6 
 10. Anstey, Tige.1.6 
Blocks Per Game
 Chris ANSTEY
  Tigers
  (213-C-75)
  Avg: 1.8
 1. Anstey, Tigers1.8 
 2. Saville, Hawks1.4 
 3. Crosswhite, Taipa.1.3 
 4. Victor, Wildcats1.3 
 5. Hinder, Crocodiles1.0 
 6. Horvath, Dragons1.0 
 7. Smith, Taipans1.0 
 8. Behrendorff, Break.1.0 
 9. Smith, Dragons1.0 
 10. Rychart, Haw.1.0 


*****************************************************
  BALKAN LEAGUE   


Balkan-League Round: 7 (Regular Season) - by Eurobasket News
Group A
CSU Brasov - Feni Indistrija 87-86
CSU Brasov managed to crush the Macedonian champion handing it the second defeat in Group A this season. At the same time it is the second victory for the Romanians. Ionut Dragusin (221-C-85) was totally the best player CSU Brasov delivering 29 points and grabbing 9 rebounds. Zoran Milovic helped with 20 pts, coming off the bench. LeRoy Dawson scored 11 and Enes Hadjubulic stopped on 10 pts. The Mac-champion got 25 points from the American Donald Cole. He also pulled down 6 rebounds beside that. Milan Prekovic netted 16, while Goran Samardizev added 12 pts.

Radnicki 034 - ChernoMore 78-63
Radnicki 034 grabbed third victory in Balkan league this season. It was the game of Round 7 meaning that Radnicki currently has 3-4 record. On the other side, the Bulgarians slipped on 2-3 and they are currently on the fourth place in Group A. Rajko Kljajevic led Radnicki 034 collecting 27 points and 9 rebounds. Uros Duvnjak was behind him with 17 points, 6 rebs and 8 assists. Danilo Draskovic added 15 pts and 8 boards. Cherno More got the most points from Corey McIntosh - 16. Nikolay Kolev had 15 and missed just one board for double-double. Atila Santos and Aleksandar Yanev contributed with 12 and 11 points respectively in defeat.


Group B
Rilski S-list - Dinamo B. 91-75
Rilski Sportist continued with victories in Balkan league. After 4-1 during the first half of the season, Rilski outplayed Dinamo Bucharest in the first game in 2009. With this victory Rilski most probably secured the first place in Group B. On the other side, the Romanian representative is on the bottom with 1-5. Travis Peterson was a key player for the hosts. He nailed 31 points and pulled down 11 rebounds, registering the only double-double in this game. Dragoslav Papic helped the winners with 18 points and 7 boards, while Ivan Lilov added 12 pts. Branko Mirkovic also was on high level collecting 11 points and 8 assists. On the other side, Chris Reaves was unstoppable with 28 points and 5 assists.

Fersped Rabotnicki - Mega HL
The game is rescheduled for February 19th due to lack of heating in Raotnicki's gym.

Standings
BIBL Standings
Group A
 1. Swiss.Lions 4-1 
 2. Feni Indistrija 4-2 
 3. Radnicki 034 3-4 
 4. ChernoMore 2-3 
 5. CSU Brasov 2-5 
Group B
 1. Rilski S-list 5-1 
 2. F.Rabotnicki 3-2 
 3. Mega HL 3-2 
 4. Levski 1-3 
 5. Dinamo B. 1-5 


*****************************************************
  BELGIUM   


Gent News - by Peter Buyse

Optima Gent guard Jesse Kimbrough has found a new team for the rest of the season. He is headed to Bergen-Op-Zoom, the former team of present Gent player Domien Loubry.
Kimbrough hardly played for Gent this season due to injuries and became the odd man out with the arrival of Belgian NT guard Roel Moors.

Gent center Graham Brown is scheduled to return from the US in the middle of next week and should resume practising with the team upon his arrival.
He had been recovering from surgery at his alma mater Michigan. At present Brown is the nr 2 rebounder in the league with 9.1 rpg.

*****************************************************
  BELIZE   


University of Belize first finalist in the BBA tournament!!! - by David Magana
Over the weekend the series between the Belmopan energy and the University of Belize Black Jaguars were played this past Thursdays and Saturday. So far the UB Jaguars advanced with little to no resistance as they beat BNE in both games 73-64 and 79-65, becoming the first team to advance to the finals. In both games, Stephen Williams (186-G) led the Jaguars in points while Farron Lauriano in rebounds. As mentioned before, the Jaguars have shown consistency, discipline and team play. On the other hand, BNE lacked a serious coach who could have had them under control. They do have a lot of individual talent.
Even though the Belize Basketball Federation had suspended Lloyd Leslie (186-G) for his aggressive behavior towards officials of the Maxi-Basket Organization, for some unexplained reason, the Belmopan Basketball Association allowed this player to take part in game one of this series.

Game 1 stats:
University of Belize, Stephen Williams (186-G) 14 pts, Travis Lennon 13 pts, Farron Lauriano 12 pts, 7 rebs and 1 block.
BNE, Aubrey Lopez (188-G) 27 pts, 14 rebs, Lloyd Leslie (186-G) 19 pts, Lloyd Leslie 12 pts.

Game 2 stats:
University of Belize, Stephen Williams (186-G) 19 pts, 1 block, Travis Lennon 14 pts, Farron Lauriano 11 pts, 7 rebs and 1 block, Winston Pratt 10 pts, 5 rebs.
BNE, Jason Daly (183-G) 20 pts, Aubrey Lopez 17 pts, 1 block.

*****************************************************
  BOSNIA   


Roster changes in Bosnia - Stanley Burrell leaves KK Bosna - by Nedzad Kladusak
Today KK Bosna announced that Stanley Burrell (190-G-84) is free-agent. Since the frontcourt of KK Bosna had troubles in case of injuries of the two experienced big men Ivanovic and Hajric, Bosna decided to
hire Elvir Ovcina. Bosna has been constrained to cut other players and since Burrell is one of the best paid they decided to split up with him in order to ease the financial situation.
The management pointed out that Burrell did a good job. He showed his athletic abilities and typical well appreciated slashing skills. His place will probably take Aldin Majstoric and Eldin Camdzic.

Boban Stanojevic is no longer coach of KK Slavija. Today the management decided to dismiss him reacting on a series of defeats.
His assistant coach Damir Zeljkovic took over and will coach the team until the management founds a successor.

Djordje Micic (195-G-83), former player of FMP has signed a contract with KK Igokea.

*****************************************************
  COSTA RICA   


Liceo de Costa Rica lose second straight in Xalapa - by Eurobasket News
Liceo de Costa Rica - Soles de Mexicali 96:100

Liceo de Costa Rica failed to deliver on the second day of the Liga Americas tournament. They faced Soles de Mexicali and came up short at the end. However this was not an easy journey for Soles. The teams kept it close throughout the action. Ivan Jaen put Liceo to an early lead but soon Soles surged ahead. The teams traded baskets in the starting frame before things got tied at 22. Soles finally found the right rhythm in the second term as they went on an 8:0 run to open up a double-digit lead. The Mexican team enjoyed a 53:39 advantage at halftime. Soles continued to dominate in the third frame as they piled up a 16-point buffer before the fourth quarter. However Liceo were not done yet. They scored the opening 7 points in the final quarter to trim the deficit. Soon two freebies from Tim Jennings (191-G-83, college: Gardner-Webb) narrowed the margin to just 4 points with under a minute to go in the game. Justin Leith (201-F-81, college: Merrimack) made it 96:98 with 6 seconds remaining before Anthony Pedroza (191-G-79, agency: Edge Sports, college: Oregon) sealed the winning outcome for Soles from charity stripe.
Greg Lewis (198-F-78, college: Winthrop) paced Soles with 27 points. Anthony Pedroza added 19 points, while Horacio Llamas (212-C-73, agency: Interperformances) had 16 points and 8 boards in the win. Henry Martinez (186-G/F-75, agency: Interperformances) answered with 22 points for Liceo. Justin Leith contributed 18 points and 8 rebounds as Liceo dropped at 0-2 record.
Liceo will take on Argentinean Quimsa next.

Liceo: Henry Martinez 22, Justin Leith 18, Tim Jennings 15
Soles: Greg Lewis 27, Anthony Pedroza 19

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


Only Cibona celebrates in Adriatic league, Round 18 - by Eurobasket News
The only Croatian team who grabbed victory in Round 18 of Adriatic league was Cibona. Zadar suffered shocking defeat in Domzale, KK Split failed at home vs Crvena Zvezda, while KK Zagreb lost in Belgrade against Partizan.
Cibona was better than FMP 85-78 meaning that the Croatian Euroleague representative and Zadar now have the same 12-6 record sharing the 4th-5th place in the league. Davor Kus (192-G-78) scored 23, Nikola Prkacin (208-C-75) 20 (plus 7 rebounds) and Earl Calloway (191-G-83, college: Indiana) added 16 points, 7 rebounds and 7 assists for Cibona. Dragan Labovic had 22 points and 7 boards in FMP (8-10).
The biggest surprise of the round is for sure the overtime home victory 94-92 of Helios Domzale against the reining Croatian champion Zadar. Nicholas Jacobson was a key player for the hosts nailing 33 points and grabbing 9 rebounds. He was totally unstoppable from behind the arc draining 8 triples. Alvin Snow helped Helios with 23 pts. On the other side, Macedonian big guy Todor Gecevski (209-C-77, agency: Interperformances) had 25 points and 12 boards. Helios improved on 4-14, while Zadar fell on 12-6.
The defending champion was too strong for the last-ranked KK Zagreb 81-64 joining Crvena Zvezda with 16-2 score. Novica Velickovic came up with 21 points and 13 rebounds for the hosts. Petar Bozic added 12 pts. Ante Tomic (217-C-87) replied with double-double in loss, 18 pts and 10 boards. Zagreb 3-15.
Crvena Zvezda managed to beat KK Split on the road 67-62 in the opening game of Round 18. It means that Serbian representative jumped on 16-2 record remaining on top of the regional champion, thanks to 81-80 victory against Partizan in Round 8. Mirko Kovac top-scored for the winning squad with 14 points (4 triples). Marko Marinovic netted 13, while Elmedin Kikanovic stopped on 9 points. Sinisa Stemberger (195-G-79) was the best in loss draining 18 points. KK Split dropped on 6-12.

*****************************************************
  CZECH REPUBLIC   


BK Pardubice inked Ollie Bailey - by David Dousa
Currently the 6th team of Czech Mattoni NBL is trying to get the squad on the track to a higher rank, where they planned on to be, before the season started. Therefore they announced a new addition to the roster, after they released Kemaldin Gamma in December. The player is Ollie Bailey (201-F-85, college: Oklahoma City). Ollie started his professional just this season, after he graduated from Oklahoma City University (NAIA). He was announced an All-NAIA Player of the year in 2008. Then he went to Switzerland, Sion Herens Basket, but he left the team before the start of the season,a nd went to get a stint in Uruguay. Shortly after that he was offered a contract from another Swiss team - SAM Basket Massagno. He only played five games in the Swiss championship. He did extremely well, averaging 25.6ppg and 8.6rpg, and used his out-clause to sign the contract with BK Synthesia Pardubice.

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


Rio Grande Valley Vipers sign Ernest Scott - by Eurobasket
Rio Grande Valley Vipers strengthened their roster with addition of 27-year old forward Ernest Scott (201-F-82, college: Valdosta St., agency: Elfus-Siegel Management (ESM)). Scott played the first part of the season at Idaho Stampede. He has quite extensive pro career as he played already in New Zealand, Germany, Switzerland and few other pro leagues in the States. His last achievement was winning New Zealand NBL Regular Season Championship. They made it also to league final. He averaged 21.3ppg and 6.7rpg in 11 games in New Zealand. He played 19 games for Idaho this season with stats: 6.5ppg and 2.2rpg.

Anthony Tolliver Receives Call-Up from Hornets - by Surujh Roopnarine
Former San Antonio Spur and current Iowa Energy forward, Anthony Tolliver (6'9''-C-85, college: Creighton) has been signed to a 10-day contract by the New Orleans Hornets. Limited by in juries to starters Tyson Chandler (ankle), David West (back spasms) and reserve Hilton Armstrong (knee), the Hornets were in desperate need of frontcourt depth and Tolliver was their man. Tolliver is the fifth GATORADE Call-Up of the 2008-09 NBA Development League season and the 124th overall since the league began play in 2001. The former Creighton star, has appeared in three games for the Energy this season, averaging 10.7 points, 7.3 rebounds and 3.0 assists in 28.3 minutes. Prior to his stint with the Energy, Tolliver played in 19 games for the San Antonio Spurs where he averaged 2.7 points and 2.2 rebounds in 10.9 minutes. During his time with the Spurs, Tolliver was assigned to the teams D-League affiliate Austin Toros where he saw action in six games and averaged 17.8 points, 7.8 rebounds and 2.8 assists.

D-League Round: 48 (Regular Season) - by Eurobasket News
Tulsa - Rio Grande 113-103
The 36ers nailed 113 points against the Vipers on the road, what was more than enough for the sixth victory this season (6-15). Keith Clark (6'8''-F-87, college: Oklahoma) demonstrated nice performance for the winners collecting 25 points and 17 rebounds for 35 minutes. Chris Richard and Kelly Jeremy delivered 18 apiece. Jared Jordan replied with 18, while Alpha Bangura had one point less for Rio Grande (9-15).

Anaheim - Austin 95-101
Marcus Williams stepped up for the hosts with 22 points, 6 rebounds and 5 assists, Charles Gaines had 19 pts and 10 boards, while Andre Brown helped the winners with 18 pts and 6 rebs. James White and Cedric Bozeman combined 56 points in defeat. Toros 15-6, Arsenal 7-16.

Albuquerque - Idaho 105-98
The Thunderbirds got 29 points and 7 assists from Will Conroy, as well as 22 points and 7 boards from David Monts. Jasper Johnson also shined with 11 points, but including impressive 18 rebounds. Coby Karl netted 28 for Idaho, while Luke Jackson followed with 20 pts and 8 as. Thunderbirds 10-11, Stampede 15-7.

Utah Flash sign Ronald DuPree - by Eurobasket
Utah Flash agreed terms with 28-year old swingman Ronald DuPree (199-F/G-81, college: LSU, agency: Priority Sports). DuPree played most recently at Tulsa 66ers (D-League). He was tried by Oklahoma City Thunder (NBA) and then by Cleveland Cavaliers (NBA). However he was sent last month to Tulsa, where in last two months he averaged impressive 19.8ppg, 6.6rpg and 3.7apg. He played last year at Detroit Pistons and Seattle Supersonic in the NBA, before moving to Tulsa.

Standings
D-League Standings
Central Division
 1. Dakota W. 14-10 
 2. Sioux Falls S. 12-10 
 3. Iowa E. 11-6 
 4. Erie BH 11-11 
 5. Ft.Wayne MA 9-11 
Southwest Division
 1. Austin T. 15-6 
 2. Colorado 14ers 13-6 
 3. Albuquerque T. 10-11 
 4. Rio Grande VV 9-16 
 5. Tulsa 66ers 6-15 
West Division
 1. Idaho S. 15-7 
 2. Bakersfield J. 15-7 
 3. Utah F. 11-9 
 4. Reno B. 8-14 
 5. Anaheim A. 7-16 
 6. LA D-Fenders 4-16 


Stats Leaders

Points Per Game
 James WHITE
  Anaheim
  (198-G-84)
  Avg: 25.7
 1. White, Anaheim25.7 
 2. Conroy, Albuquerque24.5 
 3. Sims, Iowa22.4 
 4. Crawford, Los A.20.8 
 5. Hairston, Austin20.6 
 6. Daniels, Erie20.6 
 7. Williams, Austin20.1 
 8. Meeking, Reno20.1 
 9. DuPree, Tulsa19.8 
 10. Johnson, Bakers.19.8 
Rebounds Per Game
 Courtney SIMS
  Suns
  (211-C-83)
  Avg: 11.6
 1. Sims, Iowa11.6 
 2. Davidson, Idaho10.8 
 3. Gaines, Austin10.3 
 4. Hunter, Ft.Wayne10.1 
 5. Daniels, Erie9.7 
 6. Monds, Albuquerque9.6 
 7. Brown, Austin9.5 
 8. Allred, Idaho9.2 
 9. Meeking, Reno8.8 
 10. Lewis, Bakersfie.8.4 
Assists Per Game
 Walker RUSSELL
  Ft.Wayne
  (183-G-82)
  Avg: 11.9
 1. Russell, Ft.Wayne11.9 
 2. Gill, Colorado8.2 
 3. Cleaves, Bakersfield8.0 
 4. Conroy, Albuquerque7.6 
 5. Parker, Rio Grande7.5 
 6. Stinson, Iowa7.2 
 7. Jordan, Rio Grande6.2 
 8. Clinkscales, Erie5.7 
 9. Karl, Idaho5.5 
 10. Baker, Dako.5.3 
Steals Per Game
 Dominique COLEMAN
  Colorado
  (190-G-84)
  Avg: 2.9
 1. Coleman, Colorado2.9 
 2. Russell, Ft.Wayne2.7 
 3. Elliott, Sioux Falls2.6 
 4. Noel, Albuquerque2.6 
 5. Conroy, Albuquerque2.6 
 6. Jordan, Rio Grande2.4 
 7. Parker, Rio Grande2.3 
 8. Major, Dakota2.2 
 9. Williams, Austin2.1 
 10. Robinson, Re.2.1 
Blocks Per Game
 Cheikh SAMB
  Clippers
  (215-C-84)
  Avg: 4.1
 1. Samb, Colorado4.1 
 2. Williams, Colorado3.9 
 3. Giles, Los Angeles2.8 
 4. Sims, Iowa2.3 
 5. Alexander, Sioux F.2.0 
 6. Felix, Anaheim2.0 
 7. Petway, Idaho1.9 
 8. Hendrix, Dakota1.7 
 9. Looby, Rio Grande1.7 
 10. Dabbert, Colora.1.6 


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


San Francisco Regional League Is Set For The 25th - by Kerwin Abreu

S.F.M: San Francisco Regional League is set to start on the 25th Sunday at 10a.m. With the traditional 5 teams Maximo Gomez, Santa Ana, Duarte, San Martin, San Vicente. It will bring several new things. First The Dominican - York player was approved to take part on it. Each team has the rights to have a Dominican Player born outside and living outside this country.

Each team will have funds to start working and preparing for this tournament. It will be a 20 game tournament. With a semifinal and a 5 games final. Santos Martinez (198-G/F-81, agency: Global Sports Plaza, college: Livingstone), Mawel Soler (196-G-83, college: Bowling Green), Dominick Mejia (196-G-83, college: Drexel), Bobby Pandy (198-F, college: Tex.A&M-Kingsv.) are 4 of the 5 Dominican York players starting this sunday. Also each team will have an American Player and a National Player.

In Addition to it. Players like Julious NWosu, Marlon Brandon, Carlos Paniagua, Manuel Fortuna, Benito Flores, Sandro Encarnacion are supposed to be here as Americans And Nationals Players.


This tournament will be held in San Martin's Arena in the Center of San Francisco and will have a guaranteed security.



*****************************************************
  ESTONIA   


Standings - KML
EMKL Standings
 1. TU/Rock 8-0 
 2. TTU KK 8-2 
 3. Kalev/Cramo 8-3 
 4. Kalev Tallinn 6-3 
 5. Valga Welg 5-6 
 6. Rakvere 5-8 
 7. Parnu 3-10 
 8. Kuremaa 2-13 


Janar Talts leads TU/Rock past Kalev/Cramo - by Eurobasket News
Janar Talts (205-C-83) scored 22 points and pulled down 8 rebounds to pace TU/Rock to an 80:62 win over Kalev/Cramo in the KML classic rivlary. The win allowed Tartu to maintain their perfect record as it reads 8 wins in a row now. Kalev/Cramo slipped at 8-3 record in the third spot in the standings. Talts and TU/Rock Georgian duo of Giorgi Tsintsadze (192-G-86) and Viktor Sanikidze (203-F-86, agency: Octagon) were the story in the opening term. They helped the hosts accumulate a 23:15 advantage at the first intermission. However the scoring went dry in the second frame and Kalev/Cramo capitalized. They outscored their opponents by 6 points to narrow the distance at halftime. The teams kept it close in the third frame as the shots dropped for both sides. Tanoka Beard (205-F/C-71, agency: Arik Krayn Services, college: Boise St.) electrified the crowd with his dominance inside and TU/Rock headed into the fourth term ahead by 4 points. However the intrigue was long gone before the final minutes. The hosts jumped to a quick start in the fourth term and soon opened up a double-digit lead. Kalev/Cramo kept mum throughout the rest of the contest allowing TU/Rock to an easy win at the end. Giorgi Tsintsadze nailed 16 points for TU/Rock. Tanoka Beard added 15 points and 9 rebounds for the winners. Gregor Arbet (194-F/G-83) had 17 points for Kalev/Cramo. Kristjan Kangur (202-F-82) finished with 13 points in the loss.
In the meantime TTU KK leapfrogged Kalev/Cramo for the second place in the table. An Aivar Kuusmaa team secured a tough 67:65 road win over Valga Welg to improve at 8-2 record. Joosep Pokla (198-G-86) had 14 points and 9 rebounds for the winning team. Kristo Orula (186-G-85) added 12 points for TTU KK. Reinar Hallik (208-C-84) posted 17 points for the hosts in defeat.

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


Shawnta Rogers is coming to France - by Maxime Weber

Again, Shawnta Rogers (162-G-76, college: George Washington) is coming in France. After Le Mans, Villeurbanne and Chalon, the quick PG arrives today in Toulon to sign his contract (or not). After Vincent Masingue's injured (tendon), Hyeres Toulon could complete its roster with a 'joker' and after the departure of Draper, Alain Weisz choose someone weel known in France on the point guard spot.
Hyers Toulon is -with Pau- the team who had the most injured players this saison but they won against Besancon this last weekend and they are ready to host Pau saturday.



Stats Leaders - ProA
Pro A Stats Leaders
Points Per Game
1 Austin Nichols 23.4
2 Brion Rush 22.2
3 Taj Gray 19.5
4 Cedrick Banks 18.7
5 TJ Thompson 16.9
Rebounds Per Game
1 Bingo Merriex 10
2 Dounia Issa 9
3 Vincent Masingue 9
4 Ludovic Vaty 8.3
5 Alain Koffi 7.9
Assists Per Game
1 Kareem Reid 7.3
2 Zack Wright 6.6
3 TJ Thompson 6.5
4 Laurent Sciarra 5.8
5 Aymeric Jeanneau 5.3
Steals Per Game
1 Zack Wright 3.3
2 Anthony Dobbins 2.5
3 Damir Krupalija 2.4
Blocks Per Game
1 Taj Gray 1.8
2 Dounia Issa 1.8
3 Cyril Akpomedah 1.8
2FGP
1 Cyril Julian 71%
2 Rashaun Freeman 70%
3 Eric Campbell 70%
3FGP
Derrick Obasohan 58%
Philippe Braud 47,6%
Maleye N'Doye 47,5%
Free Throws
1 Lamayn Wilson 93%
2 Justin Doellman 92%
3 John Allen 90%
Ranking
1 Taj Gray 21.3
2 Brion Rush 19.1
3 Cedrick Banks 19


*****************************************************
  FYR MACEDONIA   


Thriller win for CSU Brasov against Mac-champion - by Eurobasket News
Balkan League: CSU Brasov - Feni Indistri 87-86

CSU Brasov managed to crush the Macedonian champion handing it the second defeat in Group A this season. At the same time it is the second victory for the Romanians. Ionut Dragusin (221-C-85) was totally the best player CSU Brasov delivering 29 points and grabbing 9 rebounds. Zoran Milovic (204-C/F-77) helped with 20 pts, coming off the bench. LeRoy Dawson (188-G-81, college: S.Nazarene) scored 11 and Enes Hadjibulic (196-G-81, agency: Global Sports Plaza) stopped on 10 pts. The Mac-champion got 25 points from the American Donald Cole (204-C-81, agency: Edge Sports, college: Sam Houston St.). He also pulled down 6 rebounds beside that. Milan Prekovic (195-G/F-75) netted 16, while Goran Samardziev (188-G-81) added 12 pts.
After the opening 4-2 for the hosts, Feni took control on them ending the first ten minutes with 22-25 lead. Soon after that Ionut Dragusin and his teammates responded. They made mini 4-0 run taking back minimum lead. However, neither of two teams had advantage after 20 minutes as the score was tied, 43-43. Third stanza belonged fro Feni. Donald Cole was unstoppable, while Milan Prekovic and Goran Samardziev secured the proper help to him. At that point of game it seemed that Feni will most probably grab this one, but the hosts didn't have the same thoughts. Zoran Milovic shined for CSU Brasov nailing 14 points in the second half and together with Dragusin tied the score on 81-81 with 2 minutes left. In the free throw finish Taliek Brown missed once, what helped CSU Brasov to celebrate the second win in BIBL this season.

CSU Brasov: Ionut Dragusin 29+9 boards, Zoran Milovic 20, LeRoy Dawson 11, Enes Hadjibulic 10
Feni Industri: Donald Cole 25+6 boards, Milan Prekovic 16, Goran Samardziev 12

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


Patrick Tatham joins Itzehoe Eagles - by Moritz Korff
As the CRE Eagles Itzehoe (Regionalliga North) announced today, Patrick Tatham (201-F-84, college: Cleveland St.) has been added to their roster to replace Kedrick Johnson (192-F-83, college: Lee) who had not returned to Germany after the christmas break.
Tatham spent four years on the basketball team at Cleveland State University (NCAA1) and graduated in 2007. In his final season (2006-07) he averaged 5.6 points and 4.8 rebounds in 31 games for the Vikings.
The Canadian who turned 25 years of age earlier this week comes from a basketball family; his sister Tamara is a member of the SV Halle Lions in the German Women's Bundesliga and Alisha is suiting up for Giroud Vins BBC Troistorrents of Switzerland.

Standings - 1. Bundesliga
ProA Standings
 1. MBC 14-2 
 2. Bayreuth 13-3 
 3. Hagen 13-3 
 4. Jena 9-7 
 5. Kirchheim 9-7 
 6. Karlsruhe 9-7 
 7. Chemnitz 8-8 
 8. Bremen 8-8 
 9. Cuxhaven 7-9 
 10. B.Muenchen 7-9 
 11. Langen 7-9 
 12. ETB Wohnbau 6-10 
 13. teckproBraves 6-10 
 14. Lich 4-12 
 15. Schalke 4-12 
 16. Heidelberg 4-12 


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


Stats Leaders - A1
Points Per Game
 Steven SMITH
  VAP Kolossos
  (203-F-83)
  Avg: 18.5
 1. Smith, VAP K.18.5 
 2. Francis, AEL 196416.5 
 3. Grundy, Panellinios16.0 
 4. Vasiliadis, PAOK15.9 
 5. Childress, Olympiakos15.6 
 6. King, Olimpia L.15.1 
 7. Daniels, Kavala/P.14.9 
 8. Gregory, PAOK14.9 
 9. Nikolaidis, Trikalla14.6 
 10. Mejia, AEL 19.14.6 
Rebounds Per Game
 Torin FRANCIS
  AEL 1964
  (210-F-83)
  Avg: 9.2
 1. Francis, AEL 19649.2 
 2. Wesson, PAOK8.4 
 3. Bryant, AEK7.4 
 4. Nelson, Aris7.1 
 5. Massie, Trikalla6.9 
 6. Bourousis, Olympiakos6.3 
 7. Tomasevic, PAOK6.2 
 8. Baxter, Panionios6.2 
 9. Sekulic, Aris5.9 
 10. Golemac, Panellini.5.8 
Assists Per Game
 Thodoros PAPALOUKAS
  Olympiakos
  (200-G-77)
  Avg: 5
 1. Papaloukas, Olymp.5.0 
 2. Grundy, Panellinios4.3 
 3. Keys, C.C. Marousi4.0 
 4. Diamantidis, Panath.3.9 
 5. Avery, Trikalla3.9 
 6. Mulaomerovic, PAOK3.8 
 7. Thomson, AEK3.1 
 8. Apostolidis, AEL 3.1 
 9. Papanikolaou, AEK2.9 
 10. Clark, Ar.2.9 
Steals Per Game
 Aaron MILES
  Panionios
  (186-G-83)
  Avg: 2.5
 1. Miles, Panionios2.5 
 2. Grundy, Panellinios2.0 
 3. Thomas, Kavala/P.1.7 
 4. Papamakarios, Panell.1.6 
 5. Thomson, AEK1.5 
 6. Papaloukas, Olymp.1.5 
 7. Childress, Olympiakos1.5 
 8. Smith, VAP K.1.4 
 9. Iliadis, Aris1.3 
 10. Batis, Olimpia.1.3 
Blocks Per Game
 Chris MASSIE
  Trikalla
  (206-F-77)
  Avg: 1.3
 1. Massie, Trikalla1.3 
 2. Bryant, AEK1.2 
 3. Francis, AEL 19641.2 
 4. Glyniadakis, C.C. M.0.9 
 5. Bryant, AEK0.9 
 6. Childress, Olympiakos0.8 
 7. Bourousis, Olympiakos0.8 
 8. Dikoudis, Panionios0.8 
 9. Baxter, Panionios0.7 
 10. Fotsis, Panathinaik.0.7 


Standings - A1
A1 Standings
 1. Olympiakos 14-1 
 2. Panathinaikos 13-2 
 3. Aris 11-4 
 4. Panellinios 11-4 
 5. Panionios 10-5 
 6. C.C. Marousi 9-6 
 7. PAOK 8-7 
 8. VAP Kolossos 7-8 
 9. AEK 6-9 
 10. Olimpia L. 5-10 
 11. Kavala/P. 5-10 
 12. ESTIA Egaleo 3-12 
 13. AEL 1964 2-13 
 14. Trikalla 1-14 


Vasiliadis and Mula past from PAOK - by George Manousidis
Costas Vasiliadis (200-G/F-84, agency: FCM) and Damir Mulaomerovic (195-G-74, agency: FCM) resolved they contract few times ago. The administration of the club have decided together with the two players that would be better (for both sides) not to finish the year together, which has to do with economic prosperity of PAOK. Both the captain and the 'Moula' left the impression that serve PAOK with this action and not because there was a problem in their relations by administrators or by the trainer. Indeed, both have not shown the slightest problem, although not leave the best time.

A1 Round: 15 (Regular Season) - by Eurobasket News
Panathinaikos - VAP Kolossos 91-53
After shocking defeat in the last round, the Greens smashed VAP Kolossos in Athens 91-53. Big guy Nikola Pekovic led the scorers in PAO with 15 points. Dimitris Diamantidis had 13, while Nik Chatzivrettas added 11 pts. The guests had only one player with double-digits in scoring and it was Steven Smith - 14 pts. PAO remains on the second place with 13-2 record. Kolossos fell on 7-8.

AEK - AEL 1964 89-88
AEK grabbed tiny home victory against AEL jumping on 6-9 score (9th place). Dimitris Papanikolaou stepped up for the hosts with 21 points and 8 assists. Nikos Hatzis scored 20 and Travon Bryant registered double-double, 18 pts and 11 rebs. Nestor Kommatos shined in loss with 26 points and 6 as. His AEL dropped on 2-13.

Kavala/P. - Panionios 58-62
Panionios outsmarted Kavala as a guest jumping on the fifth place with 10-5. Aaron Miles and Dimos Dikoudis nailed 12 points apiece for the winners. Giannis Kalambokis added one less. Antanas Kavaliauskas, Martin Dorel and Will Daniels scored 13 pts each for Kavala (5-10).

PAOK - Trikalla 94-88
PAOK outgunned the last ranked Trikalla mostly owing to Costas Vasiliadis and his 22 points. Damir Mulaomerovic and Britton Johnsen followed him with 17 pts apiece. Prodromos Nikolaidis and William Avery combined 47 points in defeat. PAOK 8-7, Trikalla 1-14.

Olimpia L. - Panellinios 64-71
Important road win for Panellinios, who now has the same 11-4 score as Aris (3rd-4th place). On the other side, the hosts fell on 5-10. Brad Newley top-scored for the wining squad with 21 points. Manolis Papamakarios had 18. Michael King answered with 20 for Olimpia.

Aris - Olympiakos 73-77
The Reds were better than Aris on the road remaining on top of A1 with almost perfect 14-1. Yotam Halperin (196-G-84, agency: Arik Krayn Services) stepped up with 19 points and 5 assists, Giorgos Printezis scored 18 and Nikola Vujcic added 17 points. The hosts got 20 points from Sean Marshall, falling on 11-4.

ESTIA Egaleo - C.C. Marousi 62-66
9-6 for Maroussi and 3-12 for Egaleo after this game. Loukas Mavrokefalides led the winners with 17 points and 6 rebounds. Andreas was close to double-double, 11 points and 9 boards. Glyniadakis Vassilis Soulis collected 15 pts and 8 rebs for the hosts.

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


Stats Leaders - Eredivisie
Points Per Game
 Matt BAUSCHER
  Aris Friesland
  (188-G-85)
  Avg: 23.8
 1. Bauscher, Aris F.23.8 
 2. Pope, West-Brabant20.7 
 3. Walker, Rotterdam20.4 
 4. Bostain, Landstede17.9 
 5. Smith, Upstairs.17.5 
 6. Ross, Upstairs.17.4 
 7. Wilson, M.Magix17.2 
 8. Blue, West-Brabant17.1 
 9. Chiotti, ZZ Leiden16.9 
 10. Beasley, Eiff.T.16.8 
Rebounds Per Game
 Marcus JACKSON
  Upstairs Weert
  (202-F-82)
  Avg: 12.6
 1. Jackson, Upstairs.12.6 
 2. Johnson, West-Bra.10.5 
 3. Chiotti, ZZ Leiden9.4 
 4. Beasley, Eiff.Tow.8.6 
 5. Brempong, Hanze.8.5 
 6. Briggs, Rotterdam8.4 
 7. Dialls, Den Helder8.2 
 8. Spencer, Aris F.7.5 
 9. Strickland, Den H.7.3 
 10. Sykes, Rotterd.7.0 
Assists Per Game
 Matt BAUSCHER
  Aris Friesland
  (188-G-85)
  Avg: 6
 1. Bauscher, Aris F.6.0 
 2. Thomas, Hanzev.Cpt5.2 
 3. Richardson, Rotte.5.0 
 4. Oliver, Eiff.Towers4.8 
 5. Blackwood, Aris F.4.6 
 6. Nash, ZZ Leiden4.5 
 7. Pope, West-Brabant4.2 
 8. Jansen, Hanzev.Cpt3.9 
 9. Bostain, Landstede3.9 
 10. Witt, Den Held.3.9 
Steals Per Game
 Charles RICHARDSON
  Rotterdam
  (178-G-84)
  Avg: 3.5
 1. Richardson, Rotte.3.5 
 2. Thomas, Hanzev.Cpt3.1 
 3. Sears, M.Magix2.8 
 4. Bauscher, Aris F.2.7 
 5. Smith, Upstairs.2.6 
 6. Greene, Amsterdam2.3 
 7. Tolbert, M.Magix2.3 
 8. Walker, Rotterdam2.2 
 9. Bostain, Landstede2.1 
 10. Nelson, M.Mag.2.1 
Blocks Per Game
 Kevin STEENBERGE
  Aris Friesland
  (211-C-83)
  Avg: 1.7
 1. Steenberge, Aris F.1.7 
 2. Brempong, Hanze.1.5 
 3. Gladness, M.Magix1.3 
 4. Briggs, Rotterdam1.2 
 5. Iti, Rotterdam1.2 
 6. Richardson, Eiff.Tow.1.1 
 7. Nelson, M.Magix1.0 
 8. Blue, West-Brabant1.0 
 9. Patten, Upstairs.0.9 
 10. Chiotti, ZZ Leid.0.8 


Jos Frederiks Out For Six to Eight Weeks - by Fred Roggen
Bad news for the EiffelTowers from the training centre in Maaspoort Sports & Events. EiffelTowers 'captain' Jos Frederiks (194-F/G-76, agency: Court Side) has to leave the training session with an Achilles tendon injury.
Initially it was feared for a torn Achilles tendon, but that turned out better than expected on a second opinion in the hospital. There is a crack on the spot where the Achilles tendon proceeds in the calf muscle. The PG/SG is most likely out for competition six up to eight weeks.
Frederiks appeared in 18 games of the Dutch League, averaging 3.7 points, 3.6 rebounds and 1.2 assists in 18.2 minutes per game.

*****************************************************
  IRAN   


Shiraz a.s Pipe, The Champion of Group 3 in U-16 Iran Championship - by Mohammad Ahmadi
The third group of U-16 Iran Basketball Championship was played in Mashhad City which Shiraz a.s Pipe, Mahram, BEEM, Khorasan and Shahrekord played in 4 days. In this tournament, Shiraz a.s Pipe won the championship without any lose and won all the games. In first game, Shiraz a.s Pipe won Shahrekord in 55-20, then at second game won the BEEM in 47-43. In third game Shiraz a.s Pipe was playing against the host of tournament, Khorasan. In that beautiful match, Shiraz a.s Pipe won the game in 62-59 and in Final game, Shiraz a.s Pipe won the powerful team Mahram and the last result was 72-62 for Shiraz a.s Pipe and Shiraz a.s Pipe won the championship of third group in iran U-16 basketball championship. The head coach of Shiraz a.s Pipe in this tournament was Ali Akbar Hamidpour.

*****************************************************
  ISRAEL   


Standings - BSL
National League Standings
 1. Bar.Netanya 13-1 
 2. Macc.Ashdod 9-5 
 3. Hap.Afula 8-5 
 4. Hap.Tivon 8-5 
 5. Elitzur Ramla 8-6 
 6. Lev Hashar. 8-6 
 7. Hod Hasharon 8-6 
 8. Ironi N-Ziona 7-7 
 9. Kohav Yair 6-8 
 10. Natzrath Elite 6-8 
 11. Megido/Yok. 5-9 
 12. Elitzur Yavne 4-7 
 13. Hap.Beeri 3-10 
 14. Benyamina 2-12 


*****************************************************
  JAPAN   


Can All-Star Solve Oita's Problems? - by John Scribe
In sports, the annual All-Star is usually the mid-season classic where the league's top players assemble to compete in a fantasy basketball game to awe us fans. The players assemble to take a break from their busy seasons to let themselves free from the competitive nature of the regular season. Coaches are honored for their successful feats during the first half of the season to prove their excellence in game management. However, the purpose of the game usually doesn't stop there.

The league or organizers of the game usually host the game for a cause or to better promote the game. The entertainment factor of the game extends outside of the game itself as there are contests, such as the Home Run Derby in Baseball, Quarterback Challenge in the NFL Pro Bowl, and the dunk contest in the NBA. You can also find interactive games outside the playing field or court. The event is a festival to promote the game, and to extend the popularity of the game for people that don't typically attend games.

And in the world of sports business, the above factors are supposedly the factors in drawing in more fans and visitors to each respective host city. In a successful All-Star, there are more hotel rooms filled in. More meals being ordered in local restaurants. And in general, more tourism revenue being injected to provide a spark plug for the local economy.

If there is any that needs the spark, it is Beppu, Oita.

The 2009 BJ League All-Star is being hosted this weekend by the Oita Heatdevils. The Heatdevils are a charter franchise, which has been in existence since the BJ inaugural season in 2005. The League has alternated host cities since its first All-Star in Okinawa. Each All-Star has been successful for the young league in regards to sold out attendance, and respectable cable ratings. And Oita is counting on it.

In the last year, Oita went from a looming franchise when it made it to its first playoffs and putting 3-time champ Osaka on the ropes. The team was built on a relatively low budget, but was an epitome of arena entertainment. It also became the first-ever Japanese pro team to add foreign investment to its franchise.

However, the team took a downward spiral as the team president changed, and found itself building a new company to save itself from folding. And due to the loss of its president, Oita now faces many challenges as its entertainment level takes a dive, and with attendance at an all-time low. Sponsors have also decreased with this change. The team may have lost its credibility by tossing out its native son. From a competitive standpoint, many quality players took a exodus for greener pastures, thus leaving the team at last place in the Western Conference standings.

The All-Star was awarded to Oita because of its potential as the next leading franchise for the BJ league and its plan for sports tourism. But because of the League and its former president's impasse, Oita now functions on a new plan and faces the obstacle of reclaiming its fan base and trying to save its franchise. It is suffice to say that the future of the team hinges on the success of this All-Star. The League is also overseeing the franchise as they keep executives on the board for Oita and they will have to work hard with the Oita front office to reinvigorate this franchise.

This All-Star can make or break Oita. But it can also affect the fast-growing league. The league needs more good news as it is now working to cooperate with the Japan Basketball Association (JBA). And the JBL surely wants to partner with a league that is successful and really an example of what Japanese basketball should be.

But before that, we just hope that a franchise is saved and more fans can enjoy and be in awe of this fantasy basketball game between the top athletes in Japan.



Standings - JBL
JBL Standings
 1. Panasonic 18-6 
 2. Aishin 16-8 
 3. Hitachi S. 15-9 
 4. Toyota 12-12 
 5. Tochigi Brex 11-13 
 6. Toshiba 9-15 
 7. Hokkaido 8-16 
 8. Mitsubishi 7-17 


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


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


Standings - First Division
D1 Standings
 1. Al Wihdat 0-0 
 2. Ashrafyyah 0-0 
 3. Fuheis 0-0 
 4. Al Jalil 0-0 
 5. Al Awdah 0-0 
 6. Al Aqsa 0-0 
 7. Kafar Awan 0-0 
 8. Kafar Youba 0-0 
 9. Ghazat Hash. 0-0 


Stats Leaders - Men
Premier League Stats Leaders


New system for the Premier League 2008/2009 - by Mohammed Malas
According to local media, JBF's executive manager Mr. Ayman Samawi announced yesterday that the 2008/2009 Premier League's teams will be devided to two groups due to the huge difference in performance and level between the teams.

The top 4 clubs (Zain, Orthodox, Al Riyadi Amman & ASU Sports Club) will be in the 'Elite Group' and they will fight for the 1st 4 places while the others (Arena Amman, Al Aqaba, Hussein Erbid & College Sports Club) will play for the 5th to 8th places.

The league's opener day will be delayed for one day to be on Saturday 24/1/2009 and will resume until the 15th of April, No imports will play this year but there will be chance for Orthodox and Zain to sign forgein players and try them in the period between the 12th of February to the 12th of March to get ready for the WABA Clubs Championship in Amman (13-21 March).

*****************************************************
  LEBANON   


Riyadi players boycott the team after the Admin failed to pay its financial dues and the youngsters lost to Mouttahid in Tripoli - by Hassan Thini
Sporting Al Riyadi Beirut players have finally decided to stand one hand and boycott the team after the club's administration failed, once again, to pay their salaries on time and their bonuses in full. Sporting Al Riyadi Beirut players have been threatening to boycott the team's practices and games due to the admin's failure of paying its dues for few weeks now. The players participated against Blue Stars, Champville and Sagesse because they still had hope to get paid but eventually they have families to feed and things cannot continue like this, and they all took a stand and decided not to participate against United Club in Tripoli. Sporting Al Riyadi Beirut showed up with the youngsters team and as expected lost the game. Sporting Al Riyadi Beirut players still demand their rights of getting paid and asked the admin to perform its part from the contracts, while the Admin on the other hand found no one but Ahmad Ismail (201-F-76) and Fadi El Khatib (197-F-79, agency: Pro Management Agency) to blame and decided to ban them from playing for 2 years and deduct a one month salary from each of the other players' salaries. Sporting Al Riyadi Beirut admin did eventually pay the players their held salaries but failed to pay their long due bonuses but this is, in many of the fans opinion, is simply not fair. The players have the right to get paid as our club is not a charitable organization and we, as riyadi fans, stand surprised by the Admin's reaction and choose to support the players as it is their right to be paid their salaries and bonuses on time!

Going back to the game, Sporting Al Riyadi Beirut had only 6 players present, with Coach Foad, and Assistant coach Dikran. Mottahed started off and finished off with full focus, playing as if the game was for real. This was of course to their advantage, as the points difference against Sporting Al Riyadi Beirut will benefit them and secure their position as second in the standings behind non other than Sporting Al Riyadi Beirut of course. The first quarter ended with only a 15 point lead for Mouttahed, which eventually increased to 40 by the end of the second, and ended with a historic 70 point margin.

This is considered a catastrophy and the story will not end here. The problems will continue, until a reasonable solution occurs. We hope that this baloon deflates and we do not see the team lose its power.

Standings - Division A
Div.A Standings
1. Al Riyadi 8-1
2. Sagesse 6-3
3. Champville 6-3
4. Blue Stars 6-3
5. Moutahed 6-2
6. Tebnine 3-6
7. Anibal 3-6
8. Antranik 3-5
9. Kahraba 2-7
10. Feytroun 1-8


Standings - Div.1
Div.1 Standings
1. Army 3-0
2. Animation 2-1
3. Hoops 2-1
4. Homenetmen 2-1
5. Antonins 2-0
6. St.Georges 1-2
7. Carmelites 1-2
8. Club Central 1-2
9. Ghazir 1-1
10. Tadamon 1-1
11. ENB 0-3
12. Anoubine 0-2



Stats Leaders - Men
Div.A Stats Leaders
Points Per Game
1.ElKhatib, Riyadi 32.8
2.Gray, Tebnin 23.4
3.Zachery,BS 22.9
4.Melvin ,Sag 22.6
5.Kelly , Mout 22.6
Rebounds Per Game
1.Fraser, Antranik 22.3
2.Alexander, Anibal 16.4
3.Plummer, Feytroun 14.9
4.Cox, Kahraba 13.4
5.Williams, Moutahed 13.
Assists Per Game
1.Ismail, Riyadi 7.8
2.Kelly, Mouttahed 5.8
3.Gray, Tebnin 5.7
4.Zachery, Blue-S. 5.4
5.Akiki, Champville 5.3
Steals Per Game
1.Gray, Tebnin 3.8
2.Zachery, Blue-S. 3.1
3.Lakkis, Tebnin 2.6
4.Williams, Tebnin 2.6
3.Plummer, feytroun 2.3
Blocks Per Game
1.Box, Blue Stars 3.7
2.Alexander, Anibal 3.5
3.Cox, Kahraba 2.5
4.Byrd, Kahraba 2.3
5.Ismail, Riyadi 2.1


*****************************************************
  LIBERIA   


LBF stages workshop Saturday - by Numennie Williams
The Liberia Basketball Federation will on Saturday January 24, 2009 stage a one day workshop for coaches under the Liberia Basketball Fedration. The secretary General of the Federation Fred Pratt Fred Pratt said the workshop is expected to bring together over 30 basketball coaches and will be facilitated by the Chief Referee of the Liberia Basketball Referees Association and some season coaches. The LBF Chief Scribe also disclosed that the 2008-09 national league will commence on February 4, 2009.

*****************************************************
  LIGA AMERICAS   


Standings
Liga Americas Standings
Group A
 1. Arecibo 2-1 
 2. Merengueros 2-1 
 3. Minas 2-1 
 4. Pioneros 0-3 
Group B
 1. Bigua 3-0 
 2. Penarol 1-2 
 3. Regatas C. 1-2 
 4. U.Concepc. 1-2 
Group C
 1. Universo/BRB 2-1 
 2. Flamengo 2-1 
 3. Libertad 2-1 
 4. Dep.Castro 0-3 
Group D
 1. Halc. Xalpa 2-0 
 2. Soles 2-0 
 3. Quimsa 0-2 
 4. Liceo 0-2 


*****************************************************
  LUXEMBOURG   


Contern defeats Musel Pikes! Sparta survives scare in Heffingen with 3 point win in Overtime!! Amicale wins big over struggling Racing!!! - by Alex Meyers
January 16, 2009

Contern 68 - Musel Pikes 57

Contern, Luxembourg
Brandon Gary (202-F-83, agency: Passing Lane, college: Hutchinson JC) led all scorers with 22 points and took ten rebounds to complete the double-double helping his team to an 11 point home victory over neighbor Musel Pikes. Ken Diederich added 14 points, Eric Jeitz 11 and Gilles Becker 10. Contern won the game at the free throw line where they poured in 14 of 16 attempts. Musel pikes on the other hand made only 5 of 9. Most other categories statistically were very close. Another factor was Contern's 3rd quarter defense which stymied Musel Pikes who only could muster 9 points during the period. Chris Braier (195-F-84, college: Lawrence) was held to 9 points but took 14 rebounds. Laurent Schwartz added 18 and Samy Picard 16 for Musel Pikes. Musel Pikes also comitted far too many turnovers to win on the road.

Contern: 24 field goals, 8 three pointers, 14 for 16 free throws, 32 rebounds, 17 fouls and 7 turnovers.
Becker 10, Gary 22, Jeitz 11, Diederich 14, Fasbender, also Braun 8, Bissener 3 and Torres
Musel Pikes: 22 field goals, 8 three pointers, 5 for 9 free throws, 29 rebounds, 13 fouls, 16 turnovers
Schwartz 18, G. Schmit 9, Picard 16, Braier 9, Schmitz 2, also C. Schmit 2 and Dentzer 3

Braier(MP)Fouled out
Score by Quarters: 1st Q 22-16, Halftime 37-33, 3rd Q 54-42, Final 68-57
300 spectators

Heffingen 76 - Sparta 79

Heffingen, Luxembourg
Heffingen gave Sparta a run for their money taking them to overtime before bowing out by only 3 points. Heffingen, the youngest squad in the DBBl proved once again that their future can be very bright taking it right at the heart of Sparta for 45 minutes and never giving up until the final buzzer. For Heffingen, Willie Irick (198-F-84, agency: Warren Sports International, college: Oklahoma City) had 30 points and 12 rebounds. Daniel Weyrich added 15 points and Max Schmit 12. Larrie Smith (195-F-75, college: Tennessee Tech) had 22 points and 15 rebounds but the leader in scoring for Sparta was christian Wulff with 22. Julien Hublart and Xavier Engel added 10 points each. If Heffingen could have figured out earlier in the match it could compete with Sparta, they would have won. Sparta got off to a good start pushing Heffingen into a 9-17 hole. Heffingen stormed back to Sparta's surprise dropping 30 points in the second quarter to take a 39-37 halftime lead. The rest of the game was tight and intense for both teams. Manou Scholtus and Willie Irick hitting bit threes late in the game to keep Heffingen's hopes alive. Then, down by three in the final seconds of regulation, Willie Irick hit a huge three pointer to send the game into overtime. Sparta got the best of Heffingen in the final 5 minutes for the difficult road win.

Heffingen: 26 field goals, 6 three pointers, 18 for 30 free throws, 30 rebounds, 21 fouls and 15 turnovers
Hetto 0, J. Thesen 6, Scholtus 8, D. Weyrich 15, Irick 30, also C. Weyrich 5 and Schmit 12
Sparta: 30 field goals, 8 three pointers, 11 for 24 free throws, 38 rebounds 19 fouls and 18 turnovers.
Smith 21, Wulff 22, Engel 10, Hoffmann 6, Hublart 1, also De MArchi 3, Palumbo 4 and Nittler 3

Technical Fouls 9' Coach Silva(H) and 16'Hublart(S); Unsportsmanlike foul 28' D. WEyrich (H)
Score by quarters: 1st Q 9-17, Halftime 39-17, 3rd Q 55-57, 4th Q 72-72, Final 76-79 1OT
80 Spectators


Amicale 73 - Racing 55

Steinsel, Luxembourg
Racing experienced a huge let down in the fourth quarter scoring only 9 in an otherwise close battle. Amicale started strong gaining a 14 point 1st quarter lead. Racing came back controlling the 2nd to make close by halftime going in only 7 points down. Racing also won the 3rd quarter by 2 points but ran out of steam getting blown completely out in the 4th for the road loss. Amicale's Christian Schartz led his team with 20 points 6 rebounds and 3 steals. Christopher Jones had 17, Travis DePree (201-F/C, college: Albion) 15 and Chris Schotes 11. Racing's Corey Largent (201-F-80, college: W.Carolina) had 17, Vincent weynandt 11 and Enrique Garcia-Bourne 10.

Amicale: 30 field goals, 5 three pointers, 8 for 11 free throws, 22 rebounds, 14 fouls and 15 turnovers
DePree 15, Jones 17, Schartz 20, Scholtes, Rausch, also Kartheiser and Haan 8
Racing: 22 field goals, 4 three pointers, 7 for 10 free throws, 23 rebounds 16 fouls and 21 turnovers
Weynandt 11, Schroeder 1, Pires 7, Largent 17 Haas 4, also Garcia-Bourne 10 schmit 2 and Klose 4

Score by Quarters: 1st Q 27-13, Halftime 38-31, 3rd Q 53-46, Final 73-55
320 Spectators

Etzella ousted from Luxembourg Cup! Sparta advances to Finals with 17 point victory!! - by Alex Meyers

January 8, 2009


Etzella 66 - Sparta 83


Ettelbruck, Luxembourg
Fourth quarter woes cost Etzella the game in an otherwise close and exciting contest. Down by only three points going into that final period, Etzella was still very much in the game. Sparta's offense exploded, notching 36 points while olding Etzella at bay with 22. Sparta advances to the 1/2 Final of the prestigious 'Coupe de Luxembourg' to be played at 'The Coque' . For Etzella, its the first time in 5 years that they won't be defending for the Cup title. Etzella has won the cup 22 times, 6 times since 2000, including 2002, 2003, 2005, 2006, 2007 & 2008.


Larrie Smith (195-F-75, college: Tennessee Tech) dominated with a game high 31 points(9 rebounds). Julien Hublart added 13 points before fouling out. But, it was Sparta's balance in scoring with the rest of its team members which was the key to the victory(five others had between 6 and 9 points). Pit Hoffman(9 points) took 12 rebounds and blocked a shot for Sparta. Marcus Kennedy (193-F-84, college: Montevallo) was Etzella's leader once again with 21 points and11 rebounds. Jairo DelGado pitched in with 11. Another huge key for the Sparta win was holding Tim Giver and Nelson Delgado to 9 points each. Etzella also shot poorly from everywhere including the free throw line and from three point range. Up next for Sparta in the Cup will be a matchup with Contern on Saturday, February 7, 2008.

In DBBL action this coming weekend, Sparta will travel to Heffingen on Saturday and Etzella will go to Mersch to play Black Star on Friday.

Etzella: 21 field goals, 5 for 23 three pointers, 19 for 36 free throws, 36 rebounds, 20 fouls and 17 turnovers.
N. DelGado 9, Giver 9, Kennedy 21, J. Delgado 11, E. Ferreiera 4, also Albaladejo 3, Benseghir, Garganese 4, Ittenbach 2 and Kerger 3
Sparta: 31 field goals, 6 three pointers, 15 for 21 free throws, 34 rebounds, 24 fouls and 20 turnovers
Smith 31, Hublart 13, Wulff 7, Hoffmann 9, Palumbo 8, also Engel 9, De Marchi 6 and Evans


Score by quarters: 1st Q 15-15. Halftime 27-28, 3rd Q 44-47, Final 66-83



*****************************************************
  MALAYSIA   


Philippine national training team to join ASEAN basketball league - by Hector Santos
PHILIPPINES - Samahang Basketbol ng Pilipinas (SBP) executive director Noli Eala said the players who would sign up with the Philippine national training team under Serbian coach Rajko Toroman will be known today.

Ill talk to the players tomorrow (Friday) about their contracts. Well know if they want to join the team. Were confident they would accept the package offered them, said Eala, whos here attending the amateur boxing congress at LFisher Hotel.

The SBP, headed by Smart and PLDT chairman Manny V. Pangilinan, offered the RP hopefuls contracts that will keep them with the team for a period long enough to make them competitive for a shot at a slot in the next Olympics.

Among the players being eyed for the pool are Ateneos Chris Tiu and Rabeh Al-Hussaini, La Salles JV Casio and Rico Maeirhofer, Far Eastern Us Mark Andy Barroca, Santo Tomas Dylan Ababou and Jervy Cruz, Fil-Am Gregory Slaughter and United States-based Japeth Aguilar (206-C).

Eala said theyre looking at fielding the developmental team in the ASEAN Basketball League slated to open in September as part of its training.

Theres a 50-50 chance that the team of coach Toroman will join the ABL, said Eala.

The ABL, a home-and-away tournament being organized by the Southeast Asian Basketball Association, will feature professional teams owned by private corporations.

Theres going to be imports in the ABL. The thing is were trying to train together and we dont want to put imports there, said Eala.

*****************************************************
  MEXICO   


Halcones Xalapa account for Quimsa - by Eurobasket News
Halcones Xalapa - Quimsa 103:69

Mexican powerhouse Halcones Xalapa continued to impress the fans in Liga Americas Group D action. They raced to another overwhelming victory yesterday. They took the scalp of Argentinean Quimsa to set up the decisive battle against Soles de Mexicali for the Final Four spot.
The first term was an even contest and never spoke of the final outcome. Quimsa led early on before Dontae Truitt (198-G/F-81, college: Georgia SW) gave Halcones a 20:18 advantage late in the period. Julio Mazzaro (186-G-79) and Juan Torres (195-G-83) responded with consecutive buckets for Quimsa as the visitors gained a 22:20 lead at the first intermission. LeRoy Hickerson (196-G-82, college: Cumberlands) stepped up for the hosts in the second frame as his points helped them to gain control. Halcones surged ahead and built a 47:36 advantage at halftime. The breakthrough for the home team came in the third stanza. Halcones spun the lead out to 22 points 63:41 and took the initiative. Quimsa never got back to life as they lost the final term 14:26 and surrendered in the battle. Dontae Truitt scored 24 points and pulled down 7 rebounds for Halcones. LeRoy Hickerson had 22 points, 6 rebounds and 4 assists in the win. Gabriel Mikulas (201-F-80, agency: Interperformances, college: E.Carolina) answered with 17 points for Quimsa. Julio Mazzaro banked 14 points in defeat.

Halcones: Dontae Truitt 24, LeRoy Hickerson 22, Victor Avila (209-C-77, college: Oklahoma), Raymond Castillo (196-G/F-82, college: UTPA) 12
Quimsa: Gabriel Mikulas 17, Julio Mazzaro 14

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


Buducnost m:tel fails in Sarajevo - by Eurobasket News
Adriatic league: Bosna Sarajevo - Buducnost m:tel 79-75

The Montenegrin champion was not able to resists against the Bosnian champ in Sarajevo. Bosna had couple of players in a game mood improving on 7-11 record. The same digits also has Slovenian title-holder Union Olimpija. On the other side, the Montenegrins fell on 11-6 (sixth place). Buducnost couldn't find a solution how to stop Goran Ikonic (196-G-80), who scored 22 points. Elvir Ovcina (212-F/C-76, agency: Interperformances, college: Syracuse) also shined for the host squad collecting 15 points and 11 rebounds. Point guard Dusan Dordevic (195-G-83) also delivered 15 pts. Buducnost got the most from Vladimir Micov (201-F-85, agency: Beo Basket) - 18 points, 9 rebounds and 4 assists. Ivan Maras (208-C-86, agency: Beo Basket) was behind him with 14, while Nemanja Gordic (194-G-88) added 13 points.
Buducnost was better team during the entire time. Actually, except of 1-0 at the very beginning, Bosna grabbed the second lead with 3 minutes left in the game. It was 69-68. The main problem was the fifth personal foul for Nemanja Gordic, who had to leave the court. After that moment Buducnost struggled at the offensive end. After fifth PF by ex NBAer Zarko Zabarkapa, question about the winner was definitely resolved. Bosna had plus 4, what was unreachable for Buducnost until the end. In the next round the Montenegrins will host Partizan Belgrade. Bosna goes to Zeleznik.

Bosna Sarajevo: Goran Ikonic 22, Elvir Ovcina 15+11 boards, Dusan Dordevic 15
Buducnost m:tel: Vladimir Micov 18+9 boards+4 as, Ivan Maras 14, Nemanja Gordic 13

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  NBA   


NBA Round: 84 (Regular Season) - by Eurobasket News
Grizzlies - Bobcats 86-101
The Bobcats registered comfortable 15-point home win against the Grizzlies improving on 17-25 record. Raja Bell top-scored for the hosts with 25 points. Emeka Okafor had double-double, 20 points and 15 rebounds, while Raymond Felton added 19 pts and 6 boards. Rudy Gay replied with 26 points for Memphis (11-30).

Raptors - Pistons 76-95
Tayshaun Prince stepped up for the Pistons delivering 25 points. Jason Maxiell, who came off the bench, helped the team from Detroit with 16 pts and 11 boards. Chris Bosh had 19 points and 5 rebounds for Toronto. Pistons 24-17, Raptors 16-28.

Celtics - Heat 98-83
The defending champion cruised past Miami Heat on the road thanks to Ray Allen and Eddie House. Allen shined with 27 points, 5 rebounds and 5 assists, while House netted 25 pts. The hosts got 25 points from Dwayne Wade. Celtics 35-9, Heat 22-19.

Suns - Knicks 109-114
The Knicks outgunned Phoenix at the Madison Square Garden moving up on 17-24 score. David Lee had another fantastic game, this time collecting 25 points and 16 rebounds. Nate Robinson netted 20 and Chris Duhon 19 points. Jason Richardson was very close to double-double in loss, 27 points and 9 rebounds. His Suns fell on 23-17.

Mavericks - Bucks 99-133
Milwaukee devastated Dallas Mavericks by impressive 34 points for 21-24 record. Charlie Villanueva came up with 32 points and 10 rebounds, Michael Redd scored 27, while Ramon Sessions added 21 pts and 7 assists in victory. Dirk Nowitzki netted 30 pts for the Mavs (24-18).

Nets - Hornets 92-102
The Hornets grabbed 26th victory this season thanks to Chris Paul and Predgrag Stokanovic. Paul was close to triple-double collecting 29 points, 9 rebounds and 8 assists, while Predrag Stojakovic added 20 pts and 10 boards. Vince Carter and Bobby Simmons combined 36 points for the guests. Hornets 26-13, Nets 19-23.

Jazz - Rockets 99-108
25-18 for the Jazz and 27-16 for the Rockets after this game. Deron Williams was a key player for the winning squad with 32 points, 11 assists and 5 rebounds. Rafer Alston shined on the other side draining 23 points and dishing out 8 as.

Cavaliers - Trail Blazers 104-98
LeBron James nailed 34 points, grabbed 7 boards and handed out 14 assists helping his Cavs to beat the Trail Blazers on the road. Maurice Williams also was great delivering 33 points. Brandon Roy nailed 23 pts in defeat. Cavs 32-8, Trail Blazers 25-17.

Wizards - Kings 110-107
Caron Butler and Antawn Jamison were on high level last night combining 55 points and 6 rebounds for the winners. On the other side, John Salmons and Beno Udrih netted 24 apiece. Kevin Martin had 2 less. Wizards 9-32, Kings 10-33.

Thunder - Warriors 122-121
Russell Westbrook scored 30 points and dished out 7 assists, Kevin Durant had 27 pts and 12 rebs, while Jeff Green helped the Thunder with 26 pts. Warriors got 29 pts and 7 as from Stephen Jackson. Thunder 9-34, Warriors 13-30.

Lakers - Clippers 108-97
After nice win vs Cavaliers, the LA Lakers were too strong for the LA Clippers mostly owing to unstoppable Andrew Bynum (7'0''-C-87, agency: David Lee services), who nailed 42 points and pulled down 15 rebounds. DeAndre Jordan shined in loss with 23 pts and 12 rebounds. Lakers 33-8, Clippers 9-32.

Mark Cuban: 'Josh is staying' - by Eurobasket News
Mark Cuban has read the reports of the Mavericks shopping Josh Howard (6'6''-F-80, college: Wake Forest), but he said before the Mavericks-Bucks game tonight that the reports are inaccurate.

'You can quote me on this,' Cuban said. 'I'm not trading Josh Howard.'

Cuban has always left himself an out, saying he would even consider trading Dirk Nowtizki if Kobe Bryant and LeBron James came back to Dallas in a package. So you have to think that if someone offered an established All-Star, he might change his mind.

But he dismissed rumors of a possible deal sending Howard to Miami for Shawn Marion. He said Howard is a better defensive player than Marion and even has a better all-around game.

The Mavericks have listened to offers for Howard but because of the controversies he was involved in during the off-season and also because he has nagging ankle and wrist injuries, the offers have been modest. As Cuban said a few days ago: 'When teams call about players, they all want bargains. We don't give bargains, we try to get bargains.

Courtesy of http://www.startelegramsports.com

Greece could be interested in Stephon Marbury's services - by Eurobasket News
A European basketball power may be willing to broker a deal that would lead to Stephon Marbury's (6'2''-G-77, college: Georgia Tech) release from the Knicks.

According to reports out of Athens, Greece, the team Olympiakos is interested in signing Marbury, who has been banished from the Knicks since Dec. 1.

Olympiakos suffered a key loss this week when former Atlanta Hawk Josh Childress came down with a sports hernia that could sideline him for the next two months.

Olympiakos may be willing to pay a portion of Marbury's salary. The Knicks will likely wait until after next month's trading deadline, on Feb. 19, before making a decision on Marbury's future. If Marbury is released after March 1 he would not be eligible for the playoffs.

Garden chairman James Dolan may be willing to release Marbury if the exiled point guard gives back $2 million of his $20.8 salary, WFAN radio reported Wednesday.

The station's afternoon host, Mike Francesa, said he gathered that information during a causal conversation with Dolan. The Knicks say that Dolan doesn't recall saying that and reiterated that Dolan has given team president Donnie Walsh the authority to decide Marbury's future.

Marbury has said that he's willing to give back only $1 million. There has been increasing animosity between the two sides over the last six weeks, highlighted by Marbury's decision to attend a Lakers-Knicks game in Los Angeles. Marbury also stormed out of a meeting with Walsh after 15 minutes.

The only sign of Marbury at the Garden Wednesday night was his friend, rapper Fat Joe, sitting courtside.

TRADE TALK: A deal that would send Jermaine O'Neal to Miami and Shawn Marion to Toronto is progressing. According to a league sources, the two teams have exchanged medical records, usually a precursor to a deal. The Knicks had talked to Miami about a Marion-for-Eddy Curry deal, but Curry has appeared in only one game this season due to a knee injury.

D-RAILED? The LeBron James-to-the-Knicks in 2010 plan hit a speed bump. In the latest issue of GQ magazine, James takes a subtle shot at the Knicks during a pickup game against five GQ staff members. 'They don't play no defense,' James is quoted as saying. 'They don't play no defense. New York Knicks.'...Jerome James (ruptured Achilles) will have surgery Thursday.

Courtesy of http://www.nydailynews.com

Stats Leaders
Points Per Game
 Dwyane WADE
  Heat
  (193-G-82)
  Avg: 28.8
 1. Wade, Heat28.8 
 2. James, Cavaliers27.8 
 3. Bryant, Lakers26.8 
 4. Granger, Pacers26.2 
 5. Nowitzki, Mavericks26.0 
 6. Durant, Thunder24.1 
 7. Bosh, Raptors23.3 
 8. Roy, Trail Blazers22.3 
 9. Jefferson, Timberwo.22.2 
 10. Johnson, Haw.22.0 
Rebounds Per Game
 Dwight HOWARD
  Magic
  (207-F-85)
  Avg: 14.1
 1. Howard, Magic14.1 
 2. Camby, Clippers13.8 
 3. Biedrins, Warriors12.0 
 4. Lee, Knicks11.4 
 5. Murphy, Pacers11.3 
 6. Okafor, Bobcats10.9 
 7. Jefferson, Timberwo.10.6 
 8. Bogut, Bucks10.4 
 9. Duncan, Spurs10.2 
 10. Bosh, Rapto.9.9 
Assists Per Game
 Chris PAUL
  Hornets
  (183-G-85)
  Avg: 11
 1. Paul, Hornets11.0 
 2. Williams, Jazz9.9 
 3. Nash, Suns9.3 
 4. Calderon, Raptors8.5 
 5. Kidd, Mavericks8.2 
 6. Davis, Clippers8.0 
 7. Duhon, Knicks8.0 
 8. Rondo, Celtics8.0 
 9. Wade, Heat7.3 
 10. James, Cavalie.6.8 
Steals Per Game
 Chris PAUL
  Hornets
  (183-G-85)
  Avg: 2.7
 1. Paul, Hornets2.7 
 2. Wade, Heat2.3 
 3. Kidd, Mavericks2.3 
 4. Rondo, Celtics2.2 
 5. James, Cavaliers2.0 
 6. Ariza, Lakers1.8 
 7. Wallace, Bobcats1.8 
 8. Chalmers, Heat1.8 
 9. Butler, Wizards1.7 
 10. Iguodala, 76e.1.7 
Blocks Per Game
 Dwight HOWARD
  Magic
  (207-F-85)
  Avg: 3.2
 1. Howard, Magic3.2 
 2. Camby, Clippers2.6 
 3. Turiaf, Warriors2.1 
 4. Lopez, Nets2.0 
 5. Andersen, Nuggets1.9 
 6. Okafor, Bobcats1.8 
 7. Duncan, Spurs1.8 
 8. Thomas, Bulls1.8 
 9. Dalembert, 76ers1.7 
 10. Yao, Rocke.1.7 


Standings
NBA Standings
Eastern Conference
Atlantic Div.
 1. Celtics 35-9 
 2. 76ers 20-21 
 3. Nets 19-23 
 4. Knicks 17-24 
 5. Raptors 16-28 
Central Div.
 1. Cavaliers 32-8 
 2. Pistons 24-17 
 3. Bucks 21-24 
 4. Bulls 18-25 
 5. Pacers 15-27 
Southeast Div.
 1. Magic 33-8 
 2. Hawks 25-16 
 3. Heat 22-19 
 4. Bobcats 17-25 
 5. Wizards 9-32 
Western Conference
Northwest Div.
 1. Nuggets 28-15 
 2. Trail Blazers 25-17 
 3. Jazz 25-18 
 4. Timberwolves 13-27 
 5. Thunder 9-34 
Pacific Div.
 1. Lakers 33-8 
 2. Suns 23-17 
 3. Warriors 13-30 
 4. Kings 10-33 
 5. Clippers 9-32 
Southwest Div.
 1. Spurs 28-13 
 2. Rockets 27-16 
 3. Hornets 26-13 
 4. Mavericks 24-18 
 5. Grizzlies 11-30 


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  NCAA1   


North Carolina now 54-0 at home vs. Clemson - by Eurobasket News
Apparently, Wayne Ellington loves to play against Clemson almost as much as North Carolina enjoys having the Tigers come to Chapel Hill.

Ellington had 25 points to help the Tar Heels (No. 6 ESPN/USA Today, No. 5 AP) beat the Tigers 94-70 on Wednesday night, keeping North Carolina perfect in 54 home games against Clemson (No. 9 ESPN/USA Today, No. 10 AP).

Tyler Hansbrough (6'9''-F-85) added 20 points for the Tar Heels (17-2, 3-2 Atlantic Coast Conference), whose 54-0 run against the Tigers here is an NCAA record for the longest home winning streak against one opponent. North Carolina took control late in the first half and used a 24-4 run spanning the break to build an 18-point lead early in the second half.

Clemson (16-2, 2-2) never got closer than 13 the rest of the way and trailed by as many as 27 points, falling by double figures here for the 22nd time in 24 meetings.

Ellington was coming off a 23-point performance last weekend against Miami in which he hit eight straight shots in the second half, seven from behind the arc, after a slow start to the season. He followed that by picking up where he left off in last year's season-long torture of the Tigers.

Ellington averaged 29 points in three meetings against Clemson last season, including a career-high 36 and the last-second 3-pointer on the road for the win in the first matchup. This time, he finished 9-for-15 from the field to go with a career-high seven assists and six rebounds.

'I've been working all season long,' Ellington said. 'I just continued to have faith in getting shots up and not letting missing shots do anything to my confidence. I think it's worked for me. I figured sooner or later I'll be able to break through it, so I didn't let it affect me in any way.'

It marked the first time in his career that he's had consecutive 20-point games. Before the past two games, he had not scored more than 17 in a game this season.

North Carolina coach Roy Williams credited Ellington's work on his shot in practice, including on a day off following the loss at Wake Forest earlier this month.

'The more you shoot, the more you see it go in, the more it's going to go in,' Williams said. 'I think he's worked his way through it. I don't think it was a complete lack of confidence, but he wasn't as comfortable as he needs to be and should be. ... Instead of pouting and worrying about his shot, he's continued to play basketball.'

With Ellington rediscovering his shot, North Carolina's offense looked about as sharp as it has in weeks despite Hansbrough being relatively quiet against Clemson's physical frontline until the game was in hand. North Carolina shot 53 percent, while Deon Thompson -- after failing to reach double figures in the first four conference games -- had 15 points.

As for the streak?

'I don't know what it is,' said Ty Lawson, who had 16 points and seven assists. 'But I hope we keep winning.'

The Tigers weren't all that interested in talking about the streak, either.

'I'm 0-4 -- all the sophomores are 0-4,' said Terrence Oglesby, who had 22 points for Clemson. 'And I don't care about 1967 or whatever.'

It was the Tigers' second consecutive defeat after a 16-0 start, following Saturday's home loss to Wake Forest that propelled the Demon Deacons to the No. 1 ranking this week.

Oglesby scored 17 in the first half for Clemson, and his third 3-pointer of the half gave the Tigers a 38-36 lead with 3:31 left. But North Carolina's offense got going behind Ellington, who hit a 3 off a feed from Lawson in the final seconds to cap a 9-2 spurt that gave the Tar Heels a 45-40 halftime lead.

The Tar Heels dominated from there, starting the second half with a 15-2 run that ended with consecutive scores from Hansbrough to make it 60-42 with 14:31 left.

The Tigers, meanwhile, got nothing going in the second half, missing 16 of their first 20 shots before finishing the half at 10-for-35 (29 percent).

'Any time that a team runs into the half on you playing with a lot of momentum ... and then comes out and has a run like that, you're probably going to lose,' Clemson coach Oliver Purnell said. 'Many a game have been lost right there. We did talk at halftime that we really needed to be ready, that the first 4 minutes were going to be critical. And they were.'

North Carolina's 94 points and 53 percent shooting were the most allowed by the Tigers in any game this season.

Hansbrough had to leave the game briefly in the first half after being hit in the mouth during a scramble under the basket. The school said he had a loosened front tooth and had to play the rest of the way with a mouthpiece. He was unavailable for comment afterward.

Courtesy of The ESPN (http://sports.espn.go.com)

No. 1 Wake Forest falls, Northwestern stuns Michigan State - by Eurobasket News
Virginia Tech made sure there were no unbeaten teams left in Division I.

Malcolm Delaney scored 21 points and the visiting Hokies held on to upset No. 1 Wake Forest, 78-71, on Wednesday night. The Hokies (13-5, 3-1 Atlantic Coast Conference) led nearly from the opening tip to the final buzzer.

Jeff Teague scored 23 points for the Demon Deacons (16-1, 3-1), who were playing as the nations top-ranked team for the first time since November 2004.


NORTHWESTERN 70, MICH. ST. 63 Kevin Coble (6'8''-F-87) scored 31 points and visiting Northwestern (10-6, 2-4 Big Ten) stunned No. 7 Michigan State, ending the Spartans home winning streak at 28.

Kalin Lucas led the Spartans (15-3, 5-1) with 20 points.


CONNECTICUT 89, VILLANOVA 83 A. J. Price scored a career-high 29 points to lead No. 3 Connecticut to its sixth straight victory.

Jerome Dyson added 19 points for the host Huskies (17-1, 6-1 Big East). Dwayne Anderson had 15 points for the Wildcats (14-4, 2-3).


N. CAROLINA 94, CLEMSON 70 Wayne Ellington had 25 points to help fifth-ranked North Carolina beat No. 10 Clemson, keeping the Tar Heels perfect in 54 home games against the Tigers.

Tyler Hansbrough added 20 points for North Carolina (17-2, 3-2 A.C.C.). Terrence Oglesby scored 22 points to lead Clemson (16-2, 2-2).


OKLAHOMA 72, NEBRASKA 61 Blake Griffin had 27 points and 18 rebounds as No. 6 Oklahoma (18-1, 4-0 Big 12) slugged out a victory at home, becoming the first team in the nation with 18 wins.

Ryan Anderson scored 19 to lead the Cornhuskers (12-5, 2-2).


LOUISVILLE 78, RUTGERS 59 Terrence Williams had 23 points and 11 rebounds as No. 9 Louisville won its sixth straight game.

The Cardinals (14-3, 5-0) received 15 points each from Earl Clark and Samardo Samuels.

Mike Rosario scored 21 points for host Rutgers (9-10, 0-6), which lost its seventh straight game.


XAVIER 84, ST. BONAVENTURE 64 C. J. Anderson scored 15 points and No. 15 Xavier, off to the second-best start in program history, won at St. Bonaventure.

Brad Redford added 14 points for the Musketeers (16-2, 5-0 Atlantic 10). Andrew Nicholson scored 13 for St. Bonaventure (11-7, 2-3), which has lost four in a row.


MEMPHIS 80, RICE 52 Robert Dozier had 13 points and 9 rebounds to lead No. 22 Memphis to its ninth straight victory.

Doneal Mack added 14 points for the host Tigers (15-3, 5-0 Conference USA), who never trailed. Connor Frizzelle led Rice (6-12, 1-3) with 16 points and 9 rebounds.


HOFSTRA 54, WILLIAM & MARY 44 Cornelius Vines scored 15 points and Hofstra rallied to win at home against William & Mary.

Charles Jenkins added 13 points for the Pride (12-7, 4-4 Colonial Athletic Association). David Schneider led the Tribe (6-12, 1-7) with 18.


PLAYER COLLAPSES John Vaughan, George Masons star guard, collapsed and was taken to a local hospital Wednesday night during the Patriots 58-57 loss at Northeastern.

Vaughn barely moved for more than 15 minutes and was carried off on a stretcher.

An assistant coach, Chris Caputo, said in a text message that Vaughan was responsive, talking and had a headache.

With 2 minutes 12 seconds remaining, Vaughan appeared to take an elbow. He walked to the other end of the court and then collapsed.

George Mason Coach Jim Larranaga said Vaughan had whispered to the team trainer, Debi Corbatto, that he wanted to be put back in the game. Northeasterns orthopedic surgeon, Dr. Glen Ross, said Vaughan had been semi-conscious when he left the court. Ross said Vaughan had a head injury but declined to give further details.

Courtesy of The New York Times (http://www.nytimes.com)

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  NCAA2   


St. Cloud gets No. 9 Mankato - by Eurobasket News
Taylor Witt (6'2''-G-88) scored a team high 19 points, but none were bigger than his posterizing dunk over Minnesota State-Mankatos 6-11 center with 2:04 left in the game. Witt and the St. Cloud State mens basketball team overcame a 11-point second half deficit to beat No. 9-ranked Minnesota State-Mankato 84-78 Saturday, January 17, snapping a six-game losing streak to the Mavericks in the process.

Witt hit a pair of free throws at the 3:48 mark of the second half to bring St. Cloud State (11-5, 6-3) to even at 70-70. Then on the defensive end he came up with the rebound and raced down the court before hitting Andrew Bernstetter in the lane with one of his career high nine assists. Bernstetter then slammed a dunk home to give the Huskies a 72-70 lead at the 3:31 mark, that they would not lose.

The two free throws at 3:48 was the start of a stretch that saw Witt score nine points and seven straight at one point to close the game, compared to just eight from the entire Minnesota State (15-4, 6-3) team. With his team up just one with 1:04 left to play, Witt pulled up behind the arc and nailed his second three of the game to give the Huskies a four point lead.

In the final 36 seconds of the game, the Huskies made 5-of-6 free throws to put the game on ice and seal their first win since Jan. 3, and their first over Minnesota State since the 2005-06 season.

The Huskies out-shot the Mavericks from the field 50.0%-to-45.3% as well as 56.3%-to-38.2% in the second half. From behind the arc SCSU held a 31.0%-to-16.7% advantage.

Five players scored in double figures for the Huskies, including Craig Coenen, who came off the bench to have his best game of the season. Coenen finished with the first double-double of his career tallying 16 points and 10 rebounds, with the 16 points also representing a new career high.

Also posting a double-double for the fourth time this season was Bernstetter, who scored 12 points and had 10 rebounds of his own.

With 16 points, Josh Ortmann had his best game since the calendar turned and hit several big shots for the Huskies, including a three-point play at the 10:04 mark of the second half that capped a Husky rally and brought them within one at 57-58.

Brett Putz was the final Husky in double figures, as he added 11, including a 2-2 mark at the free throw line to extend his streak to 14 straight from the stripe without a miss.

In the first half MSU scored the last six points of the period to turn a one-point lead (34-33) with 2:59 to play, into a seven-point lead at 40-33 as the teams headed to the locker room.

Travis Nelson scored a game high 28 points to pace MSU, but no other Maverick finished in double figures. Mitch Gosson who entered the game averaging better than 12 points for the Mavs got into foul trouble early and was held to just four points in the game. The Huskies also held the Mavericks leading scorer, Jake Morrow, to just nine points, nearly half his average.

The win is first for SCSU over a ranked opponent since last season when SCSU beat then No. 10 South Dakota 75-71.

Each at 6-3, SCSU and MSU are tied for fourth place in the NSIC.

Courtesy of St. Cloud State

MIAA Report - by Sanjey Noriega
MIAA Men's Basketball Report No. 7

Nationally-ranked squads to tangle as No. 24 UCM hosts No. 6 SBU

KANSAS CITY, Mo. -- A battle of Top 25 MIAA men's basketball squads opens the second half of the conference schedule Saturday (Jan. 24) as 24th-ranked Cent.Missouri St. (13-3, 6-3 MIAA) hosts No. 6 SW Baptist (14-2, 7-2 MIAA).

Both the Mules and Bearcats suffered setbacks last week and lost ground in the ranking -- UCM dropped one at NW Missouri St. (7-9, 2-7 MIAA) while SBU fell at Nebraska-Omaha (12-4, 6-3 MIAA).

SW Baptist claimed a 98-70 home win over Cent.Missouri St. back on Dec. 2.

The Bearcats go to Missouri Western (7-9, 4-5 MIAA) Wednesday (Jan. 21), while the Mules host Truman St. (6-10, 1-8 MIAA) before their meeting in Warrensburg.

Meanwhile, Emporia St. (13-3, 7-2 MIAA), riding a three-game winning streak, hits the road for the first of three straight games away from White Auditorium. The first stop is at Ft.Hays State (11-5, 4-5 MIAA) Wednesday to wrap up the first half of the schedule, then the Hornets go to Northwest Saturday.

ESU won the first meeting with the Bearcats on Dec. 3 in Emporia, 79-56.

UNO has won four of its last five, including two against nationally-ranked opponents. The Mavericks will be chasing a three-game winning streak when they travel to Pittsburg St. (7-9, 2-7 MIAA) Wednesday.

Nebraska-Omaha then returns home to host Washburn (10-7, 6-4 MIAA) Saturday at Sapp Fieldhouse. The Mavs will be looking to avenge an 84-83 loss to the Ichabods on Dec. 3 when WU sophomore G Nate Daniels (6'3''-G)' free throw with three-10ths of a second left for the final margin.

Missouri So. (15-4, 5-4 MIAA) has dropped from the national ranking after suffering three losses in the last four games. The Lions will aim to right their course when they wrap up the first half of the league slate with a trip to Northwest before coming home to host Truman St. (6-10, 1-8 MIAA) Saturday.

MSSU snapped the Bulldogs' five-game win streak to open the season with a 65-56 win in Kirksville -- starting a 10-game slide by Truman St. which was snapped last Wednesday (Jan. 14) against Missouri Western, 69-67.

ROUGH WEEK TO BE NATIONALLY RANKED: The MIAA had three nationally-ranked teams entering last week's action -- each one suffered setbacks in the past seven days.

Last Wednesday (Jan. 14), then-No. 5 SW Baptist lost at Nebraska-Omaha, 88-84. The Bearcats, usually proficient from the three-point line, were just 6-of-21 (28.6 percent) from beyond the arc against the Mavericks.

The same night, then-No. 19 Cent.Missouri St. saw its seven-game winning streak go by the wayside when NW Missouri St. claimed a 61-57 home win. The Mules were held to their lowest scoring output of the season by the Bearcats, as Northwest posted back-to-back wins for the first time this season.

For the second time in a week, UNO struck down a ranked conference foe when a 10-0 run sparked by six points from junior G Andrew Bridger gave the Mavs the lead en route to a 74-64 win over then-No. 13 Missouri So..

It was the second loss in six days for MSSU -- Ft.Hays State handed the Lions a 67-59 home loss Jan. 12.

IBA HOLDING AT 249: Pittsburg St.'s Gene Iba remains one victory away from win No. 250 while leading the Gorillas.

He enters the home game against UNO with a mark of 249-147 (.629) at Pitt State, but the Gorillas have lost their last four games -- three which were road games -- the other was the 102-100 home four-overtime setback to Emporia St. Jan. 10.


--------------------------------------------------------------------------------

Team-by-Team Notes


Cent.Missouri St.: The Mules have struggled at the foul line in recent games --making 35-of-56 (62.5 percent) in the last three games after a two-game stretch where UCM was 19-of-24 (79.2 percent)... Junior F Sanijay Watts (6'4''-F) has averaged 18.5 points in his last four outings... Junior G Alex Moosman scored a career-high 17 at Missouri Western.

Emporia St.: The Hornets received votes in the NABC Division II Top 25 balloting this week... Junior G Dustin Andrews (6'3''-G) scored a career-high 19 points in the win over Washburn, the second time in four games he's bettered that mark... The Hornets were 13-of-26 (50.0 percent) from the three-point arc vs. the Ichabods -- Andrews was 5-of-7.

Ft.Hays State: The Tigers cracked the 70-point barrier for the first time in six games with their 74-63 win over PSU... Head coach Mark Johnson logged his 100th win inside Gross Memorial Coliseum against Pitt State (100-19 -- .840)... FHSU took a season-low nine shots from the three-point line vs. the Gorillas -- senior G Tyrone Evans made the only two.

Missouri So.: Sophomore G Skyler Bowlin (6'3''-G-89) led Southern with 21 points vs. UNO -- giving him back-to-back 20-point games for the first time... The Lions are 20-of-88 (22.7 percent) from beyond the arc in the last five games... The school announced senior F Tony Webb (6'2''-G-85, college: Mineral Area CC) was deemed academically ineligible for the rest of the season.

Missouri Western: Junior F Quentin Noblin (6'5''-F) matched his career high with 19 points on 9-of-14 shooting in the loss to UCM... The Griffons had made at least five treys in a game in their previous 13 outings before making 5-of-34 (14.7 percent) in the last two games... Senior G Lonnel Johnson (6'2''-G) has averaged 16.8 points in his last four games.

Nebraska-Omaha: Senior G Michael Jenkins (6'3''-G-86) passed Calvin Forrest (1970-74 -- 1,351) for sixth on UNO's career scoring list -- he needs seven points to pass Seth Nelson (1999-2003 -- 1,363) for fifth and 31 points to get fourth from Mike Simons (1996-2000 -- 1,387)... The Mavericks have scored at least 80 points in four of their six home games this year.

NW Missouri St.: Senior F Hunter Henry (6'9''-F-86) has scored in double figures in each of the last 13 games -- longest current streak in the MIAA... Henry did have his string of four straight double-doubles snapped when he had nine rebounds at SBU to go with 19 points.... Sophomore G Ben Haarman (5'10''-G-88) left the team before the UCM game.

Pittsburg St.: The Gorillas play UNO at John Lance Arena for the first time since 1972-73 -- when the building was less than two years old... PSU has made 75-of-131 (57.3 percent) from the foul line in the six games since returning from the holiday break... Senior G Carlos Taylor (6'3''-G-86) had at least 20 points for the ninth time in '08-09 vs. FHSU.

SW Baptist: Senior G Wendell Mardis (5'10''-G) scored a season-high 24 points in the Bearcats' win over Northwest... SBU has gone four straight games without scoring 100 points -- the longest such stretch this season... Junior C Matthew Rogers logged his fifth double-double of the season with 21 points and 10 rebounds at UNO.

Truman St.: Senior F Patrick Fandja (6'6''-F-86)'s buzzer-beater vs. Western gave him a career-high 23 points in the game to go with 11 rebounds... The win snapped a 10-game skid for the Bulldogs... Truman St. averaged just 59.6 points in the losing streak -- the Bulldogs scored more than 60 points just three times over that period.

Washburn: Senior G Deandre Eggins (6'5''-G-86) scored a career-high 31 points in the loss to ESU -- his 11th straight game in double figures and sixth with at least 20 points... Senior F James Williams scored a season-high 20 points in the win over PSU... The Ichabods have made just 29-of-50 (58 percent) from the charity stripe in the last three games.




--------------------------------------------------------------------------------
MIAA Men's Basketball Athlete of the Week

For week of action ending Jan. 18

Michael Jenkins, G
University of Nebraska-Omaha

Jenkins, a 6-foot-3, 185-pound senior from Bellevue, Neb., averaged 26.5 points, 3.5 rebounds and 2.0 steals as the Mavericks earned home wins over a pair of nationally-ranked MIAA opponents last week.

In an 88-84 win Wednesday (Jan. 14) over No. 5 SW Baptist, Jenkins scored 26 points on 7-of-12 shooting from the field, to go with a perfect 9-of-9 from the foul line. He scored the Mavericks' final five points to cap a 9-4 run after SBU had claimed an 80-79 lead with 1:40 to go.

Jenkins scored 27 points in a 74-64 victory over No. 13 Missouri So. Saturday (Jan. 17). He scored 10 points in the final 6:40 after the Lions had closed within three, 56-53 -- including 6-of-6 from the charity stripe, where he was 14-of-15 on the night.

Jenkins, now sixth on UNO's career scoring list with 1,357 points, is a graduate of Bellevue West High School.

Others Nominated: Dustin Andrews, G, ESU; Deandre Eggins, G, WU; Patrick Fandja, F, TSU; Hunter Henry, F, NWMSU; Ryan Herrman, F, FHSU; Lonnel Johnson, G, MWSU; Wendell Mardis, G, SBU; Sanijay Watts, F, UCM.

Previous winners: 11/24 -- Vincent Ateba, F, MSSU; 12/1 -- Matthew Rogers, C, SBU; 12/8 -- Matthew Rogers, C, SBU; 12/15 -- Dominique Thuston, F, MWSU; 12/29 -- Dominique Thuston, F, MWSU; 1/5 -- D'Ante Harris, G, SBU; 1/12 -- Lamar Wilbern, G, ESU.

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


The Breakers skid stretched - by Eurobasket News
The New Zealand Breakers suffered four defeats in the final five games played in the ANBL. Lately the only New Zealand team in the League played two games. First they snapped three-game losing streak beating the Townsville Crocodiles 95:86 at the North Shore Events Centre.
The Crocs were up by one point after the starting twelve minutes before the Breakers reminded that they hosted this one. The Breakers went on a decisive run in the second quarter. CJ Bruton (188-G-75, college: Indian Hills CC) scored 8 points in the term and the home team piled up a 49:35 halftime lead. The Crocs never recovered in the second half and the Breakers raced to the 16th win in the season. Kirk Penney (194-G-80, college: Wisconsin) finished with 28 points and 9 rebounds. Phill Jones (196-G-74) added 17 points, while Rick Rickert (211-F-83, college: Minnesota) had 19 points and 9 boards for the winners. Corey Williams (191-G-77, college: Alabama St.) responded with 18 points for the Crocs.
But the festivities did not last for long as the Breakers were silenced by the Melbourne Tigers in the next feature. Ebi Ere (195-G/F-81, college: Oklahoma) nailed 20 points in the second half as the Tigers cruised to a 103:85 victory at the North Shore Events Centre. Melbourne thus leapfrogged the Breakers into the second spot in the ladder. Kirk Penney had 28 points, while Rick Rickert added 15 points in the loss. The teams will meet again on Saturday at the State Netball and Hockey Centre in Melbourne.

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


Philippine national training team to join ASEAN basketball league - by Hector Santos
PHILIPPINES - Samahang Basketbol ng Pilipinas (SBP) executive director Noli Eala said the players who would sign up with the Philippine national training team under Serbian coach Rajko Toroman will be known today.

Ill talk to the players tomorrow (Friday) about their contracts. Well know if they want to join the team. Were confident they would accept the package offered them, said Eala, whos here attending the amateur boxing congress at LFisher Hotel.

The SBP, headed by Smart and PLDT chairman Manny V. Pangilinan, offered the RP hopefuls contracts that will keep them with the team for a period long enough to make them competitive for a shot at a slot in the next Olympics.

Among the players being eyed for the pool are Ateneos Chris Tiu and Rabeh Al-Hussaini, La Salles JV Casio and Rico Maeirhofer, Far Eastern Us Mark Andy Barroca, Santo Tomas Dylan Ababou and Jervy Cruz, Fil-Am Gregory Slaughter and United States-based Japeth Aguilar (206-C).

Eala said theyre looking at fielding the developmental team in the ASEAN Basketball League slated to open in September as part of its training.

Theres a 50-50 chance that the team of coach Toroman will join the ABL, said Eala.

The ABL, a home-and-away tournament being organized by the Southeast Asian Basketball Association, will feature professional teams owned by private corporations.

Theres going to be imports in the ABL. The thing is were trying to train together and we dont want to put imports there, said Eala.

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


Capin not for Asseco Prokom - by Marek Hossa
In last news i wrote that Aleksandar Capin (186-G-82) was signed by Asseco Prokom Sopot.Just he changed options. He decided to take offer from Russia team, Lokomotiv Rostov na Donu. On that team playing well known Szymon Szewczyk (209-C-82).It was really suprise for Sopot's team. After this accident Sopot try to sign Kalanietis from Zargilis but he had refused this proposition. When Nesovic left the club, they stil looking for new guard.

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


Al Arabi inks Lampley - by Mohammed Malas
After Haynes Aaron (202-F-81, college: Boise St.)'s signature with Seoul Samsung Thunders of South Korea, Al Arabi decided to have the services of the american forward Sean Lampley (201-F-79, college: California)...

Lampley played for a short time with Sagesse of Lebanon two months ago, His experience included teams in Japan, Spain, Philippines, Germany, Greece and Australia.

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


Thriller win for CSU Brasov against Mac-champion - by Eurobasket News
Balkan League: CSU Brasov - Feni Indistri 87-86

CSU Brasov managed to crush the Macedonian champion handing it the second defeat in Group A this season. At the same time it is the second victory for the Romanians. Ionut Dragusin (221-C-85) was totally the best player CSU Brasov delivering 29 points and grabbing 9 rebounds. Zoran Milovic (204-C/F-77) helped with 20 pts, coming off the bench. LeRoy Dawson (188-G-81, college: S.Nazarene) scored 11 and Enes Hadjibulic (196-G-81, agency: Global Sports Plaza) stopped on 10 pts. The Mac-champion got 25 points from the American Donald Cole (204-C-81, agency: Edge Sports, college: Sam Houston St.). He also pulled down 6 rebounds beside that. Milan Prekovic (195-G/F-75) netted 16, while Goran Samardziev (188-G-81) added 12 pts.
After the opening 4-2 for the hosts, Feni took control on them ending the first ten minutes with 22-25 lead. Soon after that Ionut Dragusin and his teammates responded. They made mini 4-0 run taking back minimum lead. However, neither of two teams had advantage after 20 minutes as the score was tied, 43-43. Third stanza belonged fro Feni. Donald Cole was unstoppable, while Milan Prekovic and Goran Samardziev secured the proper help to him. At that point of game it seemed that Feni will most probably grab this one, but the hosts didn't have the same thoughts. Zoran Milovic shined for CSU Brasov nailing 14 points in the second half and together with Dragusin tied the score on 81-81 with 2 minutes left. In the free throw finish Taliek Brown missed once, what helped CSU Brasov to celebrate the second win in BIBL this season.

CSU Brasov: Ionut Dragusin 29+9 boards, Zoran Milovic 20, LeRoy Dawson 11, Enes Hadjibulic 10
Feni Industri: Donald Cole 25+6 boards, Milan Prekovic 16, Goran Samardziev 12

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


A Superleague Round: 13 (Regular Season) - by Eurobasket News
Ural Great - Krasnoyarsk 70-72
Ural Great lost to Krasnoyarsk 70:72 as the latter improved to 5-7 record. Millage Curtis top-scored for the winners with 21 points and Kambala Kaspars netted 16. Surovtsev Aleksei struggled hard for the hosts finishing the game with 17 points.

Dynamo M. - CSKA 69-71
Dynamo Moscow and CSKA showed a real thriller and proved that their rosters are packed with real stars. CSKA survived the battle and stayed undefeated after 69:71 road win. Langdon Trajan paced all the winners with 18 points, while Smodis Matjaz posted 17. Nachbar Bostjan finished the night with 20 points and 8 boards in defeat.

Triumph - CSK VVS 75-68
Triumph overcame CSK VVS 75:68 behind 18 points from Bremer Ernest. Askrabic Ognjen notched 14, whilst Toporov Sergei nailed 13. Clancy Sam produced 12 in defeat and Sljivancanin Mladen notched 11.

Lok.Rostov - Spartak-P. 85-75
Lokomotiv Rostov edged Spartak-P. 85:75 for 5-6 record. Szewczyk Szymon shined with 21 points and 12 rebounds and a newcomer Marshall Rawle collected 17 points and 5 assists. Nesterov Konstantin posted 18 in defeat and Farmer Desmon chipped in 16.

Univ.Surgut - Unics 70-83
Unics moved to the third position to tie Dynamo Moscow with 8-4 record. The team from Kazan overcame Surgut 83:70 away from home as Zamanskiy Igor led the winners with 22 points. Kirksay Tariq nailed 19 for Unics, whilst Chalmers Lionel posted 14 points in defeat.

Spartak SP - Khimky 72-81
Khimky improved to 10-2 record after a road win over Spartak SP 81:72 in Regular Season Round 13. Wilkinson Mike and Ponkrashov Anton stepped up with 16 points each to lead all the winners in the game. Wisniewski Andrew finished the night with 26 points for the home side.



Stats Leaders - Superleague A
Points Per Game
 Lionel CHALMERS
  Univ.Surgut
  (183-G-80)
  Avg: 21.7
 1. Chalmers, Univ.Sur.21.7 
 2. Perry, CSK V.18.3 
 3. Wisniewski, Spart.16.5 
 4. Nachbar, Dynamo M.16.2 
 5. Hansen, Dynamo M.15.4 
 6. Meshcharakou, Sparta.14.2 
 7. Lampe, Khimky14.1 
 8. Bailey, Spartak-P.13.9 
 9. Loncar, Unics13.6 
 10. Pargo, Dynamo.13.3 
Rebounds Per Game
 Viktor KHRYAPA
  CSKA
  (204-F/G-82)
  Avg: 8.5
 1. Khryapa, CSKA8.5 
 2. Trushkin, Spart.6.5 
 3. Kirksay, Unics6.4 
 4. Loncar, Unics6.3 
 5. Meshcharakou, Sparta.6.3 
 6. Szewczyk, Lok.R.6.1 
 7. Nachbar, Dynamo M.5.8 
 8. Plisnic, Ural Great5.8 
 9. Fletcher, Krasnoya.5.7 
 10. Lampe, Khim.5.7 
Assists Per Game
 DeJuan COLLINS
  Cajasol
  (188-G-76)
  Avg: 5.3
 1. Collins, Lok.Rostov5.3 
 2. Pargo, Dynamo M.4.9 
 3. Ponkrashov, Khimky4.8 
 4. Wisniewski, Spart.4.7 
 5. Chalmers, Univ.Sur.4.5 
 6. Bremer, Triumph4.1 
 7. Komarovski, Univ.Sur.3.3 
 8. Perry, CSK V.3.0 
 9. Garbajosa, Khimky2.9 
 10. Planinic, CS.2.9 
Steals Per Game
 Curtis MILLAGE
  Krasnoyarsk
  (185-G-81)
  Avg: 2.3
 1. Millage, Krasnoyarsk2.3 
 2. House, Lok.Rostov2.1 
 3. Kirksay, Unics2.1 
 4. Lyday, Unics2.0 
 5. Surovtsev, Ural G.2.0 
 6. Ginevicius, Spart.2.0 
 7. Bremer, Triumph1.9 
 8. Biggs, Ural Great1.9 
 9. Komarovski, Univ.Sur.1.8 
 10. Khryapa, CS.1.8 
Blocks Per Game
 Robertas JAVTOKAS
  Dynamo M.
  (211-C-80)
  Avg: 1.2
 1. Javtokas, Dynamo M.1.2 
 2. Likholitov, Ural G.1.1 
 3. Pervukhin, Univ.Sur.1.0 
 4. Krstic, Triumph1.0 
 5. Mozgov, Khimky0.9 
 6. Loncar, Unics0.9 
 7. Monya, Dynamo M.0.9 
 8. Khryapa, CSKA0.8 
 9. Veremeyenka, Unics0.8 
 10. Savenkov, Univ.S.0.7 


Standings - Superleague A
A Superleague Standings
 1. CSKA 12-0 
 2. Khimky 10-2 
 3. Unics 8-4 
 4. Dynamo M. 8-4 
 5. Spartak SP 6-6 
 6. Triumph 6-6 
 7. Lok.Rostov 5-6 
 8. Krasnoyarsk 5-7 
 9. Ural Great 4-8 
 10. CSK VVS 3-8 
 11. Univ.Surgut 2-10 
 12. Spartak-P. 2-10 


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


Partizan and Hemofarm wins, FMP losses against Cibona - by Eurobasket News
Serbian teams in Adriatic league were 50% successful yesterday. Partizan Belgrade and Hemfoarm Vrsac were victorious, while FMP and Vojvodina suffered defeats. As a reminder, on Thusday Crvena Zvezda outplayed KK Zagreb.
Hemofarm grabbed tiny road victory 75-74 in Novo Mesto improving on 14-4 record, what is still more than enough for third place. Milan Macvan (205-F/C-89) led the winners with 22 points and 5 rebounds. Milivoje Bozovic (210-C/F-85, agency: Beo Basket) also shined collecting 18 points and 6 boards, while Stefan Markovic (194-G-88) added 15 points, 6 rebs and 8 assists. Richard Shields (193-G-82, college: Rutgers) answered with 33 points and 6 rebounds for the hosts. His Krka joined Split with 6-12.
The defending champion, Partizan Igokea, was too strong for the last-ranked KK Zagreb 81-64 joining Crvena Zvezda with 16-2 score. Novica Velickovic (205-F-86) came up with 21 points and 13 rebounds for the hosts. Petar Bozic (197-G-78) added 12 pts. Ante Tomic (217-C-87) replied with double-double in loss, 18 pts and 10 boards. Zagreb 3-15.
FMP suffered defeat in Zagreb 78-85, thus after this victory Cibona and Zadar have the same 12-6 record sharing the 4th-5th place in the league. Davor Kus (192-G-78) scored 23, Nikola Prkacin 20 (plus 7 rebounds) and Earl Calloway added 16 points, 7 rebounds and 7 assists for Cibona. Dragan Labovic (207-C/F-87) had 22 points and 7 boards in FMP (8-10).
Vojvodina faced with home loss against Slovenian champ Union Olimpija 80-82. Jasmin Hukic (204-G/F-79, agency: Beo Basket), who nailed 22 points and pulled down 9 rebounds, paced Olimpija to this tiny win. Aleksej Nesovic (189-G-85) and Vladimir Golubovic (212-C-86) were behind him with 13 pts apiece. Charron Fisher (193-G/F-85, agency: CAA Sports, college: Niagara) and Dejan Borovnjak (208-F-86) had 17 and 16 points respectively for Vojvodina (4-14).

Aleksandar Gajic signs open contract with Napredak Rubin - by Dragan Jankovski
Participant of Serbian A league Napredak Rubin signed an open contract with point guard Aleksandar Gajic (186-G-83, agency: Beo Basket). Napredak currently share third place with Metalac Valjevo with main target to keep it and to book a spot for the Superleague. The second ranked Borac has two wins more and it seems that except of Napredak and Metelac, few more teams will also desperately fight for position number 3. Mega Hypo Leasing and Radnicki 034 Group for sure will try to do it in order to join Partizan, Crvena Zvezda, Hemofarm, FMP and Vojvodina in the battle for the title.

Aleksandar Gajic started the season in Swisslion Takovo. However, he left in October before the season started. The last one he played for Greek A2 team Ilysiakos Athens. Despite he is 26-year old player, Gajic changed many teams in the past. He was a member of Partizan, Lukoil Akademik, Sloga Kraljevo, Bosna ASA BHT, Rouen, Khimik Yuzhny, APOEL Nicosia and Igokea. With Igokea he won the Bosnian National Cup in 2007. A season before that he reached the final of FIBA EuroChallenge Cup with APOEL. Later, he advanced to Ukrainian play-off semifinals with Khimik. In 2004 Gajic won Bulgarian championship as well as National Cup with Lukoil. In 1999 he was MVP of the U17 European Championship.

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


Two wins and one defeat for Slovenians in Adriatic league - by Eurobasket News
Slovenian representatives in Adriatic league demonstrated pretty good performance in Round 18. They registered 2 wins and 1 defeat, but it could easily happen that Slovenians end it with 3-0.
The biggest surprise of the round is for sure the overtime home victory 94-92 of Helios Domzale against the reining Croatian champion Zadar. Nicholas Jacobson (195-G-80, agency: Pro One Sports, college: Utah) was a key player for the hosts nailing 33 points and grabbing 9 rebounds. He was totally unstoppable from behind the arc draining 8 triples. Alvin Snow (187-G-81, college: E.Washington) helped Helios with 23 pts. On the other side, Macedonian big guy Todor Gecevski had 25 points and 12 boards. Helios improved on 4-14, while Zadar fell on 12-6.
Another very exciting game was player in Novi Sad, where Slovenian champion celebrated against Vojvodina 82-80. Jasmin Hukic (204-G/F-79, agency: Beo Basket) stepped up for Olimpija collecting 22 points and 9 rebounds. Aleksej Nesovic (189-G-85) and Vladimir Golubovic (212-C-86) were behind him with 13 pts apiece. Charron Fisher and Dejan Borovnjak had 17 and 16 points respectively. Olimpija jumped on 7-11 record, joining Bosna Sarajevo.
Krka was the team who suffered defeat in this round. It was another thriller finish, where Hemofarm was better 75-74. It means that Hemofarm stays on third place with 14-4, while Helios fell on 6-12, together with Split. Milan Macvan led the winners with 22 points and 5 rebounds. Milovoje Bozovic also shined collecting 18 points and 6 boards, while Stefan Markovic added 15 points, 6 rebs and 8 assists. Richard Shields (193-G-82, college: Rutgers) answered with 33 points and 6 rebounds for the hosts. His Krka joined Split with 6-12.

*****************************************************
  SOUTH KOREA   


KBL Round: 24 (Regular Season) - by Eurobasket News
ET Land B.Sl. - KCC Egis 84-95
Brand Micah and Mitchell Carl posted 22 points each and Choo Seung-Kyun added 20 as KCC Egis overcame ET Land 95:84. Powell Carlos chipped in 31 points and 9 rebounds in defeat.

Samsung Th. - Mobis Phoebus 69-67
Samsung ovecame Mobis Phoebus 69:67 as Leather Terrence was responsible for 33 points and 8 rebounds. Dunston Bryant scored 22 points and made 14 rebounds for the guests and Park Goo-Young had 15.

ET Land B.Sl. - KT&G Kites 76-92
ET Land was beaten by KT&G Kites 76:92 as Chandler Marquin top-scored for the winners with 24 points and 10 rebounds. Joo Hee-Jung nailed 19 points, made 13 rebounds and 7 assists, whilst Jones Jonathan collected 17 points and 13 boards. Powell Carlos ended up with 24 points in defeat.

KTF M.Wings - SK Knights 70-74
KTF M.Wings lost to SK Knights 70:74 in Regular Season Round 24. Bang Sung-Yun stepped up with 21 points, while Shannon Terrence collected 18 points and 11 rebounds for the winners. Thomas Steve ended up with 28 points in defeat.

Dongbu Promy - LG Sakers 96-85
Dongbu Promy overcame LG Sakers 96:85 behind 39 points and 11 rebounds from White Wendell. Yoon Ho-Young netted 22 and Pyo Myung-Il posted 13. Crump Brandon produced 18 points and 13 rebounds in defeat.

Orions - KTF M.Wings 67-58
Orions outscored KTF M.Wings 67:58 at home. Daniels Chris top-scored for the winners with 19 points and 16 rebounds, whilst Oh Yong-Jun netted 12. Thomas Steve ended up with 15 points in the losing effort.



Promy Beat Thunders in Fifth OT - by Rick Ross
The Dongbu Promy claimed its first victory of the season over the
Samsung Thunders after a landmark fifth overtime in a pulsating three-hour,
13-minute slog in Seoul Wednesday.
With the Thunders primed to pick up their fourth win of the campaign against the Promy,
the scene was set for an intense battle.
And the Promy showed some mettle to snatch a hard-fought 135-132 win.

The game produced a milestone with the fifth overtime
the first time in the 13-year history of the Korean Basketball League (KBL) that it has occurred.
Both sides had their moments, with the match ebbing and flowing,
tipping in the favor of each with the regularity of a perfectly-balanced seesaw.
Defending champions Promy were without last season's Most Valuable Player
(MVP) Kim Joo-sung through injury and second year import Reggie Okosa,
who moved to the Daegu Orions in exchange for Chris Daniels.
Manager Jeon Chang-jin was left with little time to organize his troops.

During the first two quarters, the Thunders took a 42-35 lead
until the last two-and-a-half minutes. Veteran guard
Lee Sang min was producing some good assists and import
Terrence Leather poured 15 points in the second quarter alone,
overwhelming Daniels in his first outing for the Promy.
But the Wonju-based outfit bounced back and
finished the first half leading 46-44, scoring 11 points in a row.
Though the Promy then raced to a 56-46 early in the third,
Thunders forward Lee Kyu-sup reversed the game to make it 64-62 in their
favor in the last 1.19 seconds of the quarter, scoring six straight points.

During the fourth, the Promy was in a better position as Thunders point machine
Leather was fouled out with 2:17 minutes left on the clock.
But fellow import Aaron Heinz tied the game at 85-85 in the last 22.6 seconds,
smashing the rim.
The table-topping Promy had two chances to beat the team currently
occupying third spot without overtime, but the rim denied
Wendel White and Yoon Ho-young on both occasions.

As the game headed into overtime, starters including White and
Lee Sang-min were fouled out. In the landmark fifth overtime,
Promy guard Kang Dae-hyup succeeded with six free throws,
ending the arduous journey with a victory for his team.

While White registered 41 points, veteran guard
Lee produced 15 points and 11 assists, with eight rebounds.
Given the length of the game, it came as
no surprise that it produced a number of new KBL records.
The Promy produced the most points in one game,
with the combined score of 267 another all-time high.
Rookie Yoon managed to record the longest time on court
for one player with a time of 61 minutes, 57 seconds.
Eight players were fouled out in a match that was,
in effect, roughly equivalent to one-and-a-half games.

While the Promy tightened their grip on top spot with a 24-10 record,
the Thunders were forced to share third place with the LG Sakers on a 18-15 record.

In Busan, the other Seoul-based team, the SK Knights, beat bottom dogs
KTF MagicWings 74-70. Knights forward Bang Sung-yoon produced 21 points,
with import Terrence Shannon not far behind on 18 points with 11 rebounds

By Yoon Chul
Staff Reporter

Standings
KBL Standings
 1. Dongbu Promy 25-10 
 2. Mobis Phoebus 21-12 
 3. LG Sakers 19-15 
 4. Samsung Th. 18-16 
 5. KCC Egis 17-16 
 6. KT&G Kites 17-16 
 7. ET Land B.Sl. 15-20 
 8. Orions 14-19 
 9. SK Knights 14-19 
 10. KTF M.Wings 9-26 


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


Standings - ACB
ACB Standings
 1. Tau 17-1 
 2. Barcelona 13-4 
 3. Joventut 13-5 
 4. Unicaja 13-5 
 5. Real 12-5 
 6. G.Canaria 10-6 
 7. Pamesa 10-8 
 8. Ricoh Man. 9-9 
 9. Fuenlabrada 9-9 
 10. Granada 8-9 
 11. Bilbao 7-10 
 12. Bruesa 6-11 
 13. Menorca 5-12 
 14. Zaragoza 5-12 
 15. Estudiant. 5-13 
 16. Murcia 4-13 
 17. Cajasol 2-16 


Stats Leaders - ACB
Points Per Game
 Brad OLESON
  A.G. Fuenla
  (191-G-83)
  Avg: 20.7
 1. Oleson, A.G. Fuenla20.7 
 2. Rakocevic, Tau20.0 
 3. Quinteros, CAI Z.18.7 
 4. Reyes, Real Madrid18.4 
 5. Dean, CB Murcia17.4 
 6. Splitter, Tau16.5 
 7. Jeter, ViveMenorca16.1 
 8. English, Kalise G.15.9 
 9. Haislip, Unicaja15.6 
 10. Navarro, Regal.14.9 
Rebounds Per Game
 Curtis BORCHARDT
  Granada
  (211-C-80)
  Avg: 9.8
 1. Borchardt, Granada9.8 
 2. Reyes, Real Madrid9.5 
 3. Ilyasova, Regal B.8.5 
 4. Panko, Bruesa6.9 
 5. Banic, Iurbentia B.6.6 
 6. Vazquez, Regal B.6.5 
 7. Eley, ViveMenorca5.8 
 8. Barnes, CB Murcia5.8 
 9. Hernandez-S., DKV J.5.7 
 10. Moss, CB Murc.5.7 
Assists Per Game
 Ricky RUBIO
  DKV Joven.
  (192-G-90)
  Avg: 5.8
 1. Rubio, DKV Joven.5.8 
 2. Rodriguez, Ricoh M.5.6 
 3. Thomas, CB Murcia5.1 
 4. Cook, Unicaja5.0 
 5. Salgado, Iurbenti.4.7 
 6. Prigioni, Tau4.6 
 7. Valters, A.G. F.4.6 
 8. Mallet, DKV Joven.4.1 
 9. Williams, Pamesa V.3.8 
 10. Sada, Regal Bar.3.5 
Steals Per Game
 Pablo PRIGIONI
  Tau
  (186-G-77)
  Avg: 2.5
 1. Prigioni, Tau2.5 
 2. Popovic, Bruesa1.9 
 3. Splitter, Tau1.9 
 4. Jasen, MMT E.1.8 
 5. Thomas, CB Murcia1.8 
 6. Quinteros, CAI Z.1.7 
 7. Cook, Unicaja1.7 
 8. Guerra, CAI Z.1.6 
 9. Lescano, CAI Z.1.6 
 10. Jimenez, Unica.1.6 
Blocks Per Game
 Curtis BORCHARDT
  Granada
  (211-C-80)
  Avg: 1.7
 1. Borchardt, Granada1.7 
 2. Asselin, Ricoh Man.1.6 
 3. Barnes, CB Murcia1.5 
 4. Vazquez, Regal B.1.4 
 5. Gutierrez, Granada1.4 
 6. Haislip, Unicaja1.1 
 7. Ibaka, Ricoh Man.1.1 
 8. Ndong, Unicaja1.1 
 9. Moss, CB Murcia1.1 
 10. Splitter, T.1.1 


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


Standings - Basketligan
Basketettan Standings
North
 1. Lidingo 13-2 
 2. Haga Haninge 13-4 
 3. Blackeberg 11-4 
 4. Talje 9-4 
 5. Akropol 8-8 
 6. KFUM Uppsala 8-8 
 7. Alvik Basket 7-8 
 8. Hallsta 7-8 
 9. Lulea Steel 7-11 
 10. Lulea BG 5-10 
 11. Polisen 5-11 
 12. Umea 4-10 
 13. Orongo 4-13 
South
 1. Nassjo 11-2 
 2. Orebro 10-4 
 3. Fryshuset 9-4 
 4. Srbija 9-5 
 5. Kalmar 7-5 
 6. Sanda 7-5 
 7. S:t Helena 7-5 
 8. NUBF 7-6 
 9. Kvarnby 3-9 
 10. Norrkoping BK 3-10 
 11. Eos 3-11 
 12. Saltsjobaden 2-12 
 13. Soder 0-0 


*****************************************************
  TUNISIA   


EZS and ESS wins away - by Carlos Pereira
Great balance in the play off, after the 3th round of Tunisia national championship.
With the away wins by EZS and ESS, and the win at home from Usmo, 5 teams in the two first places.
Only ES Rades is out of the race.
Surprise at CA who lose at home is game with EZZS

RESULTS
C Africain-Ezzahra 71-72
US Monas-S Nab 63-58
ES Rads-ES Sahel 49-74

STANDING

Pts

1) CA 6
2) SN 5
-) EZS 5
-) ESS 5
-) USM 56) ESR 3

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


Stats Leaders - D1
Points Per Game
 Aubrey REESE
  Aliaga
  (183-G-78)
  Avg: 21.9
 1. Reese, Aliaga21.9 
 2. Crispin, Banvit21.4 
 3. Williams, Banvit20.0 
 4. McCalebb, Mersin19.3 
 5. Gordon, Oyak R.19.1 
 6. Lofton, Mersin18.0 
 7. Ibekwe, Selcuk U.17.8 
 8. Davis, Aliaga17.2 
 9. Mack, Selcuk Uni.16.8 
 10. Graves, Galatasar.16.4 
Rebounds Per Game
 Leon WILLIAMS
  Karsiyaka
  (203-F/C-86)
  Avg: 11.5
 1. Williams, Karsiyaka11.5 
 2. Thomas, Erdemir10.6 
 3. Traylor, Kepez Bld9.1 
 4. Besok, Galatasaray8.9 
 5. Ffriend, Mersin8.6 
 6. Benton, Karsiyaka8.4 
 7. Gonlum, Efes Pilsen8.2 
 8. Williams, Banvit8.0 
 9. Douthit, Antalya7.6 
 10. Solak, Alia.7.5 
Assists Per Game
 Hakan KOSEOGLU
  Karsiyaka
  (188-G-81)
  Avg: 6.3
 1. Koseoglu, Karsiyaka6.3 
 2. Acik, T.Telekom5.7 
 3. Senturk, Darussaf.5.4 
 4. Chatman, Besiktas5.1 
 5. Crispin, Banvit5.0 
 6. Green, Antalya4.8 
 7. Preldzic, Fener.Ulker4.8 
 8. Gordon, Oyak R.4.7 
 9. McCalebb, Mersin4.4 
 10. Reese, Alia.4.3 
Steals Per Game
 Edward BASDEN
  Mersin
  (196-G/F-83)
  Avg: 3.1
 1. Basden, Mersin3.1 
 2. McCalebb, Mersin2.9 
 3. Koseoglu, Karsiyaka2.0 
 4. Senturk, Darussaf.1.9 
 5. Martin, Kepez Bld1.9 
 6. Thornton, Efes P.1.8 
 7. Ibekwe, Selcuk U.1.8 
 8. Chatman, Besiktas1.8 
 9. Smith, Efes Pilsen1.7 
 10. Green, Antal.1.7 
Blocks Per Game
 Erek HANSEN
  TED Koleji
  (211-C-82)
  Avg: 3.1
 1. Hansen, TED Koleji3.1 
 2. Solak, Aliaga2.7 
 3. Benton, Karsiyaka2.7 
 4. Traylor, Kepez Bld1.9 
 5. Stiemsma, Oyak R.1.9 
 6. Ibekwe, Selcuk U.1.8 
 7. Ffriend, Mersin1.4 
 8. Davis, Aliaga1.3 
 9. Douthit, Antalya1.1 
 10. Thomas, Erdem.1.1 


Standings - TBL
TBL Standings
 1. Efes Pilsen 15-1 
 2. Galatasaray 13-3 
 3. Fener.Ulker 11-4 
 4. T.Telekom 11-5 
 5. Antalya 9-7 
 6. Banvit 8-8 
 7. Mersin 8-8 
 8. Besiktas 8-8 
 9. Karsiyaka 7-8 
 10. Aliaga 7-8 
 11. Darussafaka 7-9 
 12. Oyak Renault 7-9 
 13. Selcuk Uni. 6-10 
 14. Kepez Bld 4-12 
 15. Erdemir 4-12 
 16. TED Koleji 1-14 


*****************************************************
  U.S. VIRGIN ISLANDS   


JJ with a double double - by David Edole
Sophomore Jevon James (196-F) scored 16 points and pulled down 12 rebounds, both game-high figures, and the Bears scored the final 11 points of the game as Coast Guard won its first conference game of the season with a 54-41 victory over Springfield in a New England Women's and Men's Athletic Conference game.

With the win, Coast Guard is now 8-8 overall, 1-4 in the NEWMAC, while Springfield is now 7-9 overall, and 0-4 in league play.

James, who registered his second double-double of the season, scored eight of his 16 points in the first half, when the Bears took a 21-17 lead. In fact, Coast Guard scored the first eight points of the game, four by senior forward Craig Johnson in the first 4:16 of play. But Springfield then snapped to life by scoring the next nine points, four by senior center John Strawson, two by senior guard Danny White and a three-pointer by sophomore forward Matt Cavalieri with 9:52 remaining.

The momentum shifted right back, however, as the Bears tallied the next nine straight points, the final three coming on a three-point play by Johnson. That gave Coast Guard a 17-9 advantage. Springfield scored eight of the last 12 points in that half to cut the margin to four at the intermission.

Things began to look up for the home team at the start of the second half when Springfield scored the first four points of that stanza on buckets by junior guard Ryan Blackmon and junior forward Pat Crean, but a lay-up by James with 17:28 left actually put Coast Guard into the lead for good, although the game was not decided until the final two minutes.

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


Tigers bolster squad with signing of Evans - by Andy Webb
Newly crowned BBL Cup winners Everton Tigers have bolstered their squad with the signing of Chuck Evans (180-G-71, college: Mississippi St.) as they continue to fight on all fronts.

The 37-year-old has extensive European basketball experience and will provide back up for captain Richard Midgley at point guard.

The 5 11 veteran first played in the BBL for Worcester last season before joining Cheshire Jets for 2008-2009. He was released last October by the Jets.

Evans arrives at Greenbank as the Tigers continue to be in contention for all four BBL competitions.

Tigers head coach Tony Garbelotto said: 'After a conversation with Tony Dorsey, it became apparent that Chuck was interested in coming back to England to finish his Masters course that he started at Worcester University last year.

We inquired to see if he would be able to continue with his studies as well as fulfilling his playing duties with us.

As soon as this was agreed, I felt it was a no brainer to bring him in as backup for Richard Midgley at point guard.

Gary Townsend, chairman of Everton Tigers, added:'We are constantly trying to improve everything we do at the Tigers, both on and off the court.

The signing of Chuck was one of those situations that happened because of us being in the right place at the right time. He will no doubt strengthen our roster and help us with our ever increasing community programme.'

Evans is a veteran European performer, with a Russian league title at CSKA Moscow and several seasons in Germanys basketball Bundesliga.

Born in Atlanta, Georgia, he holds dual US/German citizenship and has also had spells in Poland and Spain.

Meanwhile Lekan Popoola has been released by the Tigers, Garbelotto confirmed.

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


Welcome back coach Gustavo Garcia - by Wolfgang Lucena

Well known in Maracaibo and in the whole Nation as well, Coach Gustavo Garcia took over Gaitero's Head coach position.
Nobody knows Gaiteros Del Zulia better than Gustavo Garcia. After more than 20 years of coaching at Zulia State, last year, Gustavo Garcia went to Guaros de Lara as a head coach. While coaching in Barquisimeto, Gustavo Garcia got an invitation from the Venezuela Basketball Federation to join the senior Men's Venezuela National Team to assist Head coach Nelson 'KaKo' Solrzano.
This year, Alirio and Paul Romero believe that Coach Gustavo Garcia's strategy could come through winning Gaiteros Del Zulias the championship.
Last year, Gaiteros Del Zulia went to the final series where they finished in the position of semi champions of the 2008 LPB.

Maracaibo city deserves it...Coach, make it happened.



Axier Sucre in the Ship - by Wolfgang Lucena
Marinos de Anzoategui will be receiving its captain this Friday. Captain Axiers Sucre (198-F-78) will be boarding the Ship, coming from Argentina's TNA league. Axier puts great numbers with the Athletics Union of Sunchales in the Argentina's ascending basketball league. He played 15 regular games with 18.2 points, 8.4 boards and1.1 assist.
Marinos Sport Manager Gianni Patino, said that Sucre accuse a pain in one of his legs, which is a reason enough to decide to bring him back to Venezuela for a medical examination. Axier is going to be ready to join head coach Flor Melendez and his team mates this upcoming Friday after the medical evaluation.

*****************************************************
  ZIMBABWE   


JBC on a roll. - by Roderick Takawira
JBC men opened the second half of the season with a 68-27 victory over El-Matthias Jammers. Both teams were fielding depleted sides as both teams only had 5 players. But the size advantage for JBC was clear and limited Jammers to a solitary Elton Antonio bucket in the 1st quarter while dropping 22 points on Jammers. JBC's Eric Banda was uncompromising scoring 32 points with a mixture of 3's and 2's

Highdon Raiderz beat luckless UZ Stars 69-37 to keep them intouch with the top group. Coach Ngoni Mukukula knows if he has any hope of staying in the league race this season his charges have to excel and that means they have to win every game. Sunday's victory was a nice warm-up battle for the war that Highdon Raiderz has to win

Varsity Leopards made heavy work of a resurgent Pross winning 51-44. The game was so close that Varsity needed a couple 3 pointers in the last 3 minutes to separate themselves from Pross. Pross unwillingness to practice was evident in them giving up a 5 point lead in the last 5 minutes of the game and handing victory to Leopards.



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

Women News

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


Connecticut signs Danielle Page, Kerri Gardin and Barbara Turner for 2009 - by Eurobasket News
The Connecticut Sun announced Wednesday that Barbara Turner (6'0''-G/F-84, college: Connecticut), Kerri Gardin (6'1''-F-84, agency: Regeneracom Sports, college: Virginia Tech) and Danielle Page (6'2''-F-86, college: Nebraska) have signed contracts for the 2009 season.

As per team policy, no terms were released.

'We are excited to have Barbara, Kerri and Danielle back this coming season,' said Sun head coach Mike Thibault. 'Both Kerri and Barb contributed significantly on the court to our success last season, and with their year of experience and great off-seasons overseas, we expect even greater things from them this season. Although Danielle did not play much last year, her contributions on an everyday basis in practice helped the quality of our overall improvement with her pushing her teammates to play at a high level every day.'

Turner, a 6-foot-0 forward out of UConn, led the Sun with 44 made three-pointers in her first year as a member of the team. She averaged eight points per game, and played in all 34 games with six starts.

Gardin is a 6-1 forward who appeared in 34 games with 15 starts, finishing with 111 rebounds while collecting 41 assists. Page is a 6-2 forward from Nebraska who appeared in three games last season as a rookie.

The Connecticut Sun tip off their seventh season at Mohegan Sun Arena on June 6th with a 4 p.m. game against the Washington Mystics. Season tickets and mini-plans are on sale now and can be reserved by calling a Sun Ticket Representative at 1.877.SUN.TIXX (786-8499) or by visiting www.connecticutsun.com.

Courtesy of The Connecticut Sun

*****************************************************
  CZECH REPUBLIC - Women  


Standings - ZBL (W)
ZBL Standings
A1
 1. USK Praha 17-1 
 2. Gambrinus 17-1 
 3. Valosun B. 11-7 
 4. Trutnov 9-8 
A2
 1. Hradec Kralove 9-8 
 2. Strakonice 8-10 
 3. Slovanka 6-12 
 4. Karlovy Vary 6-12 
 5. Sparta Praha 4-14 
 6. BK Tabor 2-16 


*****************************************************
  GREECE - Women  


Standings - Women
A1 Standings
 1. Athinaikos 15-0 
 2. Esperides 13-2 
 3. Panathinaikos 10-4 
 4. P.Faliro 10-5 
 5. Apollon K. 10-5 
 6. Ano Liosa 8-7 
 7. Panionios 8-7 
 8. Apollon P. 7-7 
 9. Aris H. 6-8 
 10. Olympiada L. 5-10 
 11. M.Aleksandros 3-11 
 12. Siemens 3-12 
 13. Paghiakos 2-12 
 14. Kastoria 0-14 


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


No. 4 Baylor wins 10th straight - by Eurobasket News
Danielle Wilson's (6'3''-C-88) three-point play with 4.8 seconds left gave No. 4 Baylor its 10th straight win, a 64-61 victory over No. 7 Texas A&M on Wednesday night.
Wilson, who finished with 11 points and 10 rebounds, got the ball in the lane and made the layup despite being fouled by Danielle Gant. She then sank the free throw to secure the win.

Kelli Griffin missed a jumper with 6 seconds left and the ball sailed out of bounds. Texas A&M touched it last, giving Baylor (16-1, 4-0) one more chance.

Takia Starks tried a desperation shot from just past half court at the buzzer, but it fell short.

Morghan Medlock scored a season-high 17 and Jessica Morrow added 15 for the Lady Bears, who got the win despite tying a season high with 20 turnovers.

Gant made one of two free throws with about 30 seconds left to tie it at 61-all.

Baylor had a 61-58 lead after a pair of free throws by Melissa Jones with 1:40 remaining. A layup by Starks, who finished with 18 points, seconds later closed the gap to a point.

The loss breaks a 13-game home winning streak for Texas A&M (14-3, 2-2), which was led by a career-high 19 points by Tanisha Smith.

Texas A&M led 53-49 after a basket by Smith with about nine minutes left. The Lady Bears scored six unanswered points to take a 55-53 lead before Smith broke the Aggies scoring drought with a layup with about 5 to play.

Texas A&M opened the second half with an 11-4 run to turn a three-point halftime deficit into a 45-41 lead with about 14 minutes remaining. A couple of minutes later, a pair of three-pointers by Jhasmin Player, who had 12 points, had helped Baylor tie it at 47-all.

The teams took turns in the lead for most of the first half, but Morrow's three-pointer just before halftime put the Lady Bears ahead 37-34 at the break.

It was a sloppy first half with the teams combining for 25 turnovers. The Aggies took advantage of Baylor's early miscues to score eight of their first 14 points off Lady Bear turnovers.

Courtesy of the USA Today (http://www.usatoday.com)

*****************************************************
  NCAA2 - Women  


No. 9 Emporia State too strong for No. 7 Washburn - by Eurobasket News
Junior guard Cassondra Boston's (5'6''-G) 24 points and senior forward Ida Edwards' seventh double-double of the year for No. 9-rated Emporia State offset 31 points from senior guard Janice Bright of No. 7-ranked Washburn as the Hornets claimed an 85-78 win over the Blues in Mid-America Intercollegiate Athletic Association play Saturday, January 17.

Washburn (14-3, 7-3 MIAA) held an 18-14 lead with 8:58 left in the first half before ESU (14-2, 8-1 MIAA) scored 13 straight points to take the lead for good. Senior guard Andrea Leiker's three-pointer at the 7:24 mark broke an 18-18 tie.

Emporia State held Washburn to one field goal over the final 9:33 of the half (the Blues did make seven straight free throws in that stretch) to take a 36-26 lead into the locker room.

The Hornets' lead would grow to 16 at 49-33 with 15:44 left in the game. Washburn would cut the gap to five at 81-76 with 20 seconds to go, using a 12-5 run. Bright accounted for seven during that outburst.

Meanwhile, Boston and junior guard Sophia Lenard combined to hit 9-of-10 free throws in the final 1:01 -- 4-for-4 in the last 20 seconds -- to secure the win for the Hornets.

Edwards ended with 14 points and 12 rebounds for her double-double. Senior forward Allie Renberg added 10 points off the bench for Emporia State.

Bright set an MIAA record by going 15-of-15 from the free throw line for Washburn -- four players had previously finished a game 14-of-14, the last being Central Missouri's Lindsey Maple v. Northwest Missouri State in the 2006-07 season. Bright also finished with a team-high seven rebounds.

Junior center Dayna Rodriguez had 15 points and senior forward Stanecia Graham added 12 for Washburn.

Courtesy of MIAA

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


Standings Women D1
A Superleague Standings
 1. Spartak V MR 11-1 
 2. CSKA 10-0 
 3. UMMC 9-2 
 4. Dynamo M. 7-5 
 5. Chevakata 6-5 
 6. Nadezhda O. 5-6 
 7. Dynamo K. 4-6 
 8. Dynamo N. 2-9 
 9. Spartak SP 1-10 
 10. Slavyanka 0-11 


Stats Leaders
Points Per Game
 Diana TAURASI
  Spartak V MR
  (182-G-82)
  Avg: 19.1
 1. Taurasi, Spartak .19.1 
 2. Jekabsone-Z., Dynamo M.17.3 
 3. Christon, Nadezhda.17.1 
 4. Snell, Dynamo M.17.0 
 5. Kuzina, Dynamo M.15.2 
 6. Wauters, CSKA15.1 
 7. Bokareva, Chevakata14.8 
 8. Burse, Dynamo M.13.9 
 9. Fowles, Spartak .13.9 
 10. Bibrzycka, UM.13.6 
Rebounds Per Game
 Anastasiya VEREMEENKO
  Nadezhda O.
  (192-F/C-87)
  Avg: 10.8
 1. Veremeenko, Nadezhda.10.8 
 2. Bokareva, Chevakata8.7 
 3. Zakalyuzhnay., Dynamo M.8.1 
 4. Wauters, CSKA7.6 
 5. Iakovleva, Spart.7.6 
 6. Myasoedova, Dynamo N.7.5 
 7. Fowles, Spartak .7.5 
 8. Burse, Dynamo M.7.3 
 9. McCarville, CS.7.3 
 10. Psareva, Dynamo.7.1 
Assists Per Game
 Elena BERSENEVA
  Dynamo N.
  (172-G-80)
  Avg: 5.9
 1. Berseneva, Dynamo N.5.9 
 2. Snell, Dynamo M.5.2 
 3. Bird, Spartak V MR4.7 
 4. Taurasi, Spartak .4.4 
 5. Volkova, Chevakata4.2 
 6. Khammon, CSKA4.0 
 7. Firsova, Spartak SP3.8 
 8. Moore, Chevakata3.7 
 9. Bibrzycka, UMMC3.6 
 10. Babusheva, Sla.3.5 
Steals Per Game
 Loree MOORE
  Chevakata
  (176-G-83)
  Avg: 3.6
 1. Moore, Chevakata3.6 
 2. Makhlina, Spart.2.4 
 3. Fomina, Dynamo K.2.3 
 4. Douglas, CSKA2.3 
 5. Bolsunovskay., Dynamo N.2.3 
 6. Bokareva, Chevakata2.3 
 7. McCarville, CS.2.3 
 8. Volkova, Chevakata2.1 
 9. Valuzyte, Dynamo K.2.1 
 10. Snell, Dynamo.2.1 
Blocks Per Game
 Anastasiya VEREMEENKO
  Nadezhda O.
  (192-F/C-87)
  Avg: 2.5
 1. Veremeenko, Nadezhda.2.5 
 2. Stepanova, CSKA2.5 
 3. Myasoedova, Dynamo N.1.8 
 4. Kiseleva, Slavyanka1.7 
 5. Kuzina, Dynamo M.1.5 
 6. Fowles, Spartak .1.5 
 7. Baranova, UMMC1.4 
 8. Vizbariene, Dynamo K.1.3 
 9. Osipova, Spartak .1.1 
 10. Nikitina, Dynamo.1.0 


A Superleague Round: 12 (Regular Season) - by Eurobasket News
Spartak V MR - Dynamo M. 94-78
Spartak Moscow Region overcame Dynamo Moscow 94:78 after the loss from CSKA. Jackson Lauren top-scored for the winners with 28 points, while Taurasi Diana produced 24. Kuzina Marina finished the night with 21 points and 9 rebounds in defeat.

Spartak SP - Nadezhda O. 66-87
Spartak SP was defeat by Nadezhda 66:87 as Lennox Betty was unstoppable with 30 points for the winners. Tamane Zane nailed 17, while Ovcharenko Olga and Christon Shameka each scored 13. Speranskaya Olga produced 16 points in the losing effort.

Slavyanka - Chevakata 62-97
Pimenova Anastasia and Belyakova Evgenia notched 22 points for Chevakata in a 97:62 road win over Slavyanka. Khokhlova Aleksandra finished the night with 16 points in defeat and Babusheva Natalya scored 11.

CSKA - Spartak V MR 76-73
The game between CSKA and Spartak Moscow region was expected from the start of the Superleague. The teams were undefeated and only CSKA remanied with 0 in the column for losses. CSKA grabbed 10'0 record after 76:73 home win. Wauters Ann paced all the winners with 23 points and 16 rebounds. Taurasi Diana ended up with 27 points and 7 rebounds in defeat.

Dynamo N. - UMMC 65-77
UMMC is third with 9-2 record after a road win over Dynamo Novosibirsk. Gruda Sandrine top-scored for the winners with 14 points, while Bibrzycka Agnieszka and Jones Asjha had 13 each. Berseneva Elena ended up with 17 points in the losing effort.

Dynamo M. - Dynamo K. 69-65
Dynamo Moscow overcame Dynamo Kursk 69:65 on January 19th. Snell Belinda and Jekabsone-Zogota Anete top-scored for the winners with 20 points each. Valuzyte Sandra posted 13 points in the losing effort.

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


Comfortable win Maxima Broker against MBK Ruzomberok - by Vladimir Matus
Maxima Broker beat MBK Ruzomberok 74:44 with strong defending play and 25 points their star Sidney Spencer (191-F-85, college: Tennessee).
MBK: Simona Podesvova (186-F-83) 18 points, Lucia Kupcikova (184-F-84) 10p.
Maxima Broker: Sidney Spencer 25p, Cathrine Kraayeveld (193-F-81, agency: LBM Management, college: Oregon) 14p.
Roznava made first season win against Cassovia 96:88
Roznava: Gennifer Bridges 21p.
Cassovia: T Sujova 30p.
Poprad won very important match 77:76 with Zuzana Brezaniova (167-G-87) 3 points shot in last second of the match against rival BSS Kosice
Poprad: Martina Gandzalova (179-G/F-78, college: Missouri Baptist) 19p.
BSS: Katarina Pindrochova (183-F-88) 20p.
Nitra recorded 10 season win at Presov 71:59
Presov: Erin Lawless (188-F-85, agency: LBM Management, college: Purdue) 17p.
Nitra: Edita Sujanova (190-C-85) 18p.

Last changes in teams in Slovakian extraleague - by Vladimir Matus
Slovak champion Maxima Broker Kosice recruit team with experienced Slovak player Katarina Polakova (180-F-79), comes from last team of extraleague Roznava and second strength basketball champion Maxima Broker Kosice is Lithuanian player Iveta Salkauskiene which should replace German player Linda Frohlich (188-F/C-79, agency: LBM Management, college: UNLV) which is new face in czech champion Gambrinus Brno The second team extraleague women MBK Ruzomberok leaves two American players Fluker Tyesha Nickole and Duffy Megan Marie and signed a new contract with Ukrainian Lyubov Alyoshkina (202-C-81, agency: LBM Management) who last played in the Lithuanian team Arvi Marijampole And Basket Steel Slovakia Kosice signed a contract with experienced Lithuanian player Diana Razmaite (196-C-75, agency: LBM Management)

Standings - Women
Extraliga Standings
 1. Maxima Br. 12-1 
 2. MBK Ruz. 11-2 
 3. Nitra 10-3 
 4. Poprad 7-7 
 5. SSK Abovia 6-7 
 6. Slovan 5-8 
 7. Presov 5-9 
 8. Cassovia K. 3-11 
 9. Roznava 1-12 


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  SPAIN - Women  


Mar Rovira goes to Salamanca and Maite Checa lands off in La Seu D'Urgell - by Ivan Villar
Market was hot last week in women basketball.Mar Rovira left Cadi la Seu after an agreement and will play in Perfumerias Avenida until end of season.The catalan guard hopes to win some championship with Salamanca's team. Cadi la Seu decided to sign Maite Checa.National forward was free agent after she finished her temporary contract with Hondarribia Irun.Now teams are ready for decisive last months of competition.

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  U.S. VIRGIN ISLANDS - Women  


Lost in the shuffle: Lashonda Creque - by David Edole
La-Shonda Creque has been the main player on Charlotte Amalie HS for the past two years and this year she has seen other players including teammates get more media exposure. The 5-foot-8 senior guard had to witness Victoria Hamilton recruiting process. Hamilton recently signed with Radford University. She also had to witness teammate 6-foot-4 center Aesha Peters become the talk of the town. Peters, only a junior, has received interest from many Division I schools.
However, this past weekend Creque decided to take things into her own hands at the Martin Luther King Basketball Tourney. She scored a tourney high 20 points in the championship game, which was an easy, win for Charlotte Amalie. She led the Hawks in scoring in two of the three games played and was named MVP.
Creques awaking came when her Coach Myron Corbett decided to sit her in the first quarter of the title game. With Charlotte Amalie not playing well and down 14-5 to rival Antilles, Creque came out like a gangbuster in the second quarter. She showed off her deft shooting touch on her way to 15 points in the frame. She turned a deficit into a 45-31 win. Creque is a shooter with an unbelievable shot, said Corbett. She is a definite college prospect. All she has to do is keep on working and I wont be surprised if she gets some attention.
Coach Daniel Prince of Northwestern University echoed the same sentiments as Corbett last year when he was an assistant coach at UC Irvine.
[Creque] is a quick guard that has a great ability to get to the basket, said Prince. Very athletic and uses long strides to get to the basket. She has a nice mid range game. Her ability to change directions in traffic usually causes problems for the opponents. She has the ability to use both hands around the basket. She can hit the 3-point shot. She is definitely a prospect for college in the USA.
With her play over the weekend I don't think anyone will overlook Creque.

Getting to Know Creque

Name: LaShonda Creque
Position: Guard
Class: 2009
High School: CAHS
Who is your favorite basketball player? Kobe Bryant
Who do you try to emulate on the basketball court: Kobe
Your most memorable basketball experience: MLK tourney 2009, Antilles Tournament 06
Favorite thing to do outside sports: Hang with my friends
One word that best describes you: Crazy
Last CD you bought: The Game L.A.X
TV show you can't miss: House
The one movie you must have in your movie collection: Scarface
If you could play any other sport, what would it be and why? Softball, dont have to do to much running.

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  WNBA - Women  


Connecticut signs Danielle Page, Kerri Gardin and Barbara Turner for 2009 - by Eurobasket News
The Connecticut Sun announced Wednesday that Barbara Turner (6'0''-G/F-84, college: Connecticut), Kerri Gardin (6'1''-F-84, agency: Regeneracom Sports, college: Virginia Tech) and Danielle Page (6'2''-F-86, college: Nebraska) have signed contracts for the 2009 season.

As per team policy, no terms were released.

'We are excited to have Barbara, Kerri and Danielle back this coming season,' said Sun head coach Mike Thibault. 'Both Kerri and Barb contributed significantly on the court to our success last season, and with their year of experience and great off-seasons overseas, we expect even greater things from them this season. Although Danielle did not play much last year, her contributions on an everyday basis in practice helped the quality of our overall improvement with her pushing her teammates to play at a high level every day.'

Turner, a 6-foot-0 forward out of UConn, led the Sun with 44 made three-pointers in her first year as a member of the team. She averaged eight points per game, and played in all 34 games with six starts.

Gardin is a 6-1 forward who appeared in 34 games with 15 starts, finishing with 111 rebounds while collecting 41 assists. Page is a 6-2 forward from Nebraska who appeared in three games last season as a rookie.

The Connecticut Sun tip off their seventh season at Mohegan Sun Arena on June 6th with a 4 p.m. game against the Washington Mystics. Season tickets and mini-plans are on sale now and can be reserved by calling a Sun Ticket Representative at 1.877.SUN.TIXX (786-8499) or by visiting www.connecticutsun.com.

Courtesy of The Connecticut Sun

Dream trades Alison Bales to Phoenix for second round pick - by Eurobasket News
The Atlanta Dream traded 6-7 center Alison Bales (6'7''-C-85, college: Duke) to the Phoenix Mercury today in exchange for the 18th overall pick in the 2009 WNBA Draft.

Bales appeared in 17 games for the Dream last season, including nine starts. She averaged 22.9 minutes, 4.8 points, 6.0 rebounds and 1.7 blocks per game. In her three-year WNBA career, Bales is averaging 3.8 points, 4.0 rebounds and 1.4 blocks.

The former Duke University standout was originally selected by the Indiana Fever with the ninth overall pick of the 2007 WNBA Draft. She was acquired by the Dream from the Fever in exchange for forward Kristen Mann on July 4, 2008.

The Dream will tip off its second season on Saturday, June 6, 2009 at 7 p.m. against the Indiana Fever. For more information and to purchase season tickets, fans can call 404.604.2626 or visit www.AtlantaDream.net.

Courtesy of The Atlanta Dream

Kristen Mann added to Mystics roster - by Eurobasket News
General Manager Angela Taylor announced today that the Washington Mystics have added 6'1 forward Kristen Mann (6'2''-F-83, college: UCSB) to its roster. Mann, recently spent the 2008 season on the rosters of both the Atlanta Dream and the Indiana Fever

'We are excited about adding Kristen to our roster. She has a great understanding of the game and is one of the better three point shooters in the league,' said Taylor. 'Kristen will add solid veteran leadership and a strong work ethic to the mix. She played well during last year's playoffs and is committed to helping our Mystics team compete for a playoff spot in 2009.'

Mann was selected in the first round (11th overall) of the 2005 WNBA draft by the Minnesota Lynx. She spent three seasons with the Lynx where she averaged 6.3 points per game, 2.9 rebounds per game and shot 34 percent from the three point line. Mann's WNBA career averages are 5.7 points per game and 2.7 rebounds per game.

'Kristen brings a number of attributes to our team, including experience, the ability to stretch the defense with her three point shot, a very high basketball IQ, and a competitive work ethic,' said Head Coach Julie Plank. 'She is a player that can knock down open shots, so I am looking forward to adding her to our nucleus, as we continue to make improvements to our Mystics team.'

A graduate of California-Santa Barbara, Mann earned numerous honors for the 2004-05 collegiate year including Associated Press All-American honorable mention, Big West Conference Player of the Year and All-Big West First Team.

The Washington Mystics will tip off the 2009 season on Saturday, June 6th, on the road against the Connecticut Sun. Washington will host the club's home opener on Sunday, June 7th, against the Atlanta Dream.

Courtesy of The Washington Mystics