EUROBASKET NEWS REPORT - 10/3/2009

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Men News

*****************************************************
  ANTIGUA   


Matthew Drops 32 For F & G Trading - by Mahijah Davis
F & G Trading faced off with 20/20 at the YMCA Sports Complex, while FCIB battled D & G Outlaws and Sandals and Board of Education scrimmaged at the JSC Sports Complex on Tuesday night in the 2009 Cool & Smooth Business League Championships.
All three games were outstanding to watch since they brought a lot of excitement and the return to action of a few star players.
Business league is something I usually look forward to since I am no longer in the really competitive stage of playing basketball, said Foster George of F & G Trading.
I just want to get out there on the court, put in my share of work and satisfy the passion that I still have for the game.
Trading drafted the legendary Bryan Hollywood Matthew, which brought more talks around the league in a good way for Trading.
Matthew bagged another win for Trading by scoring 32 points in a 17-point victory over 20/20, 68-51.
Nigel Joseph added 20 points to Tradings score sheet and Coy Quinland and Eric Joseph chipped in 10 points apiece for the losing team.
Coach Gemma Hazelwood finally got the match-up that he was looking for, but the outcome left a bitter taste in his mouth.
D & G Outlaws met the Antigua & Barbuda Basketball Association (ABBA) Second Division MVP Jules Williams and his team, First Caribbean Investment Bank (FCIB).
Both teams were equally matched with star players Kevin Francis, Reginald Joseph, George Francis and Daryl Matthew representing Outlaws.
This game brought excitement from start to finish and the team that hit the big shots won this battle. FCIB was that team and grabbed the win, 66-62.
With 3:45 remaining in the second half, both teams went on a shooting spree, making shots from behind the arc, tough lay-ups and essential free throws.
FCIBs Shamarie Southwell was the leading scorer for the game with 17 points. His team-mates Russell Daley and Ishan Peetes also added 15 and 14 points, respectively for FCIB.
Francis banked 15 points and Joseph added 13 for Outlaws.
Sandals grabbed a huge win over BoE in the last game of the night by 12 points, 68-56. BoE had Sandals on the ropes but got side tracked and decided to focus on the refs instead of making their easy free throws and turned over the ball on offence.
BoE complained that they werent getting enough calls, but with 2:23 remaining in the game, the scores were even 54-54.
Sandals realised that BoEs focus was on the refs and used that advantage to take the lead. With 52 seconds remaining, Sandals jumped to an eight-point lead, 62-54 and that was it for BoE.
The top scorers for Sandals were Adisa Ras-I Harris 18, Eril Gualls 24, Nechus Jones 12 and Harry I-Trulu Jules 10 points.
Ikah Grayham netted 14 points and Erol Henry and Alfred Lee chipped in 10 points apiece for BoE. More games continue today at both sports complexes.


Atrocious Sportsmanship My Cost APUA Head Office A Light Bill - by Mahijah Davis
When Carlton Brodie, one of the most calm and well respected outstanding referee on the island have to ejected a national team status player from a face-off in the 2009 Cool & Smooth Business League games and end up having to blow-off the game because of the players atrocious behavior; this is where the organizers need to step in and put their foot down before the good name of the league is damper.
In a heated battle between the APUA Head Office and Myers Electrical (ME), this game turn into a sight for sore eyes on APUA Head Office behalf. APUA HO teams behavior on Thursday nigh was despicable and need some type of disciplinary action taken towards the team.
I could believe ah so them boys ah behave in little business league when the league is just to have fun and laughter. Nation team player ah kick away ball and dont want to leave the field of action when ejected. And we blame the government for providing proper facilities for this sport, said an irate fan
I wonder if these guys realize that they are not representing themselves, ah business places them ah represent. What if some high authority at APUA happened to walk into the park to watch this game; that the behavior, this team have to show. And to make matters worst what if a little idolizer in the stand was watching; he or she would have learnt a handful of bad behavior, the person added.
APUA HO and ME saga is under discussion. On another note, Arlene Josiah step in as Epicurean coach and added three straight win to the teams record. Epicurean defeated J Construction at the YMCA Sports Complex, 47-42. Qwamie Payne was the hot hand for the winning team with 12 points while Neville Chambers banked 14 points for the losing team.
At the JSC Sports Complex, F & G Trading bagged another win over Jules Radiator Services, 63-49. Bryan Hollywood Matthew dropped 28 points for Trading while Terry Spencer and Sherrad Henry netted 12 and 10 points respectively for Radiator Services.
The next encounter saw MSJMC blowing-out Jack-Idle, 77-59. Kemoy Coley and Jerard Gore banke 23 and 21 for MSJMC and Andrew Puss Venture chipped in 16 for Jack-Idle. APUA Water crushed Port Authority in the final game of the night, 61-49. Marlon Likkle Davis dropped 24 points for APUA Water and Michael Xavier banked 15 for the losing team. More games continue today at both complexes.


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


Stats Leaders - NBL



Standings - NBL
NBL Standings
 1. Tigers 1-0 
 2. Hawks 1-1 
 3. Perth 1-1 
 4. Crocodiles 1-1 
 5. Taipans 1-1 
 6. Breakers 1-1 
 7. Blaze 1-1 
 8. 36ers 0-1 


*****************************************************
  BAHRAIN   


U17 Starts Tomorow - by Yousef Ahmed
THE Basketball season in Bahrain is set to commence tomorrow with the under-17 league at the Um Al Hassam Sports Complex.

Starting at 4pm, defending champions Al Ahli will kick off their title race against outsiders Bahrain Club. Later, contenders Manama take on newcomers Al Hidd at 5.30pm.

The third and last match of the day, which is due to begin at 7.30pm, will see former champions Muharraq face off with Sitra in what is expected to be one of the most exciting games of the season.

Other matches are scheduled for Sunday when Isa Town play Al Hala at 6.30pm while Al Najma and Al Ittihad face each other in their opening match of the season on Monday.

In the under-12 league, five matches are set for tomorrow on the first day of the new season.

The opener will see Al Najma take on Nuwaidrat at 10.30am, then Sitra play Al Ahli at 11.45am. Both game will be played in Um Al Hassam.

Muharraq Club will host two matches as Bahrain Club face off with Muharraq at 10.30am, to be followed by Samaheej vs Isa Town clash at 11.45am.

The other game of the day, to be staged at Al Hala Club gym in Muharraq, will be played between Al Hala and Al Ittihad and is set for 10.30am kick off time
Source GDN

*****************************************************
  BALTIC LEAGUE   


BC Kalev/Cramo added Blagoj Janev - by Janar Filippov
BC Kalev/Cramo has added another foreign player to its roster. Blagoj Janev (203-F-84, college: New Hampshire) has never played in any European league, although he was born in FYR.Macedonia and has Macedonian citizenship.
Last season he played for Auckland, averaging 20.3 ppg and 7.5 rpg in NZL championships. He has represented Australia in U21 and U18 world championships.
Janev will make his European debut on Saturday when Kalev/Cramo faces VEF Riga in SEB Baltic Basketball League.

Stats Leaders
Points Per Game
 Reinis STRUPOVICS
  Valmiera
  (192-G-87)
  Avg: 20.8
 1. Strupovics, Keiza.20.8 
 2. Vares, Valga Welg18.8 
 3. Varnelis, Alytus A.18.4 
 4. Alexander, Ba.17.7 
 5. Kazevicius, Alytus A.17.3 
 6. Gabsys, Alytus Alita17.1 
 7. Runkauskas, Suduva17.1 
 8. Vasylius, Neptunas17.1 
 9. Beard, TU/Rock16.8 
 10. Jansons, AS.16.6 
Rebounds Per Game
 Richard ANDERSON
  Vancouver T.
  (199-F-77)
  Avg: 9.5
 1. Anderson, Valga W.9.5 
 2. Beard, TU/Rock9.3 
 3. Alexander, Ba.8.5 
 4. Butkevicius, Kaunas T.7.9 
 5. Vasylius, Neptunas7.7 
 6. Varnelis, Alytus A.7.7 
 7. Bambis, Zemgale7.3 
 8. Valukonis, Suduva7.3 
 9. Tsiakos, Ventspils7.1 
 10. Berzins,.7.1 
Assists Per Game
 Giorgi TSINTSADZE
  Trikalla
  (192-G-86)
  Avg: 5
 1. Tsintsadze, TU/Rock5.0 
 2. Gabrans, ASK/.4.6 
 3. Hill, Techasas4.4 
 4. Runkauskas, Suduva4.3 
 5. Grant, Norrkoping4.3 
 6. Kazevicius, Alytus A.4.0 
 7. Dainys, Neptunas3.8 
 8. Gustas, Ba.3.6 
 9. Raiskums, Zemgale3.5 
 10. Bergmanis, Zemga.3.5 
Steals Per Game
 Demarius BOLDS
  Bashkimi
  (190-G-84)
  Avg: 2.6
 1. Bolds, Techasas2.6 
 2. Slesers, Keiza.2.2 
 3. Mazutis, ASK Riga2.2 
 4. Gabrans, ASK/.2.1 
 5. Pilk, TTU K.2.0 
 6. Valukonis, Suduva1.9 
 7. Skele, Ba.1.9 
 8. Labuckas, Sakalai1.8 
 9. Strelnieks, Keiza.1.8 
 10. Gabsys, Alytus Ali.1.8 
Blocks Per Game
 Joakim KJELLBOM
  Norrkoping
  (213-C/F-79)
  Avg: 1.7
 1. Kjellbom, Norrkoping1.7 
 2. Anderson, Valga W.1.4 
 3. Berzins, Ba.1.3 
 4. Shukhovtsov, Sakal.1.3 
 5. Talts, TU/Rock1.2 
 6. Viiask, TTU K.1.1 
 7. Hallik, Valga Welg1.1 
 8. Toome, TTU K.1.1 
 9. Sarakauskas, Sakal.1.0 
 10. Blaus, Keizarme.1.0 


Standings - Men
BBL Standings
 1. Zalgiris 2-0 
 2. Lietuvos Rytas 1-0 
 3. Kalev/Cramo 1-0 
 4. VEF Riga 1-0 
 5. Ventspils 0-0 
 6. TU/Rock 0-0 
 7. Liepaja 0-1 
 8. Siauliai 0-1 
 9. Nevezis 0-1 
 10. Valmiera 0-2 


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


Kastela too strong for Zrinjski in a friendly - by Eurobasket News
Kastela - Zrinjski 69-60

Kastela continued with its great pre-season form recording another friendly win. They squared of against Bosnian outfit Zrinjski and have managed to come out victorious. Kastelas players opened the game in style as they went on 10- 0 run. From there they continued to pound on their opponent, limiting them to only 9 first quarter points. After initial 10 minutes, Kastela was up 20-9. In the second quarter, we saw more of the same, as Kastela dominated at the both sides of the court. They played good defense, which enabled them easy points in transition. At the halftime, Kastela held comfortable 40-22 lead. In the second half, Zrinjski players consolidated and managed to make a 6-0 run to pen the third quarter. They continued to melt down the deficit, while playing significantly better defense. After allowing Kastela only 8 points, they trailed 48-37 with 10 minutes to go. The final quarter brought suspense, as Zrinjski players managed to even the score with 6 minutes left in the game. Still that was all they could do as Kastela went on to build another 9-point lead, which they kept for the rest of the way. In the end they celebrated 69-60 victory.
Stipe Rezic (201-G/F-89) scored 13 points for the winning side while Radic and Stjepan Tesija (205-F-89) added 12 points each. For Zrinjski, Mladen Gligora (204-C/F-82, agency: Court Side) and Petric were good with 15 points apiece. Tomislav Ramljak (203-F/C-85, agency: Court Side) finished the night with 10.

Kastela: Stipe Rezic 13, Radic 12, Stjepan Tesija 12
Zrinjski: Mladen Gligora 15, Petric 15, Tomislav Ramljak 10

*****************************************************
  CHILE   


Liga Sudamericana: U.Concepcion sign Blackshear and Sanford - by Daniel Valencia
CD Universidad de Concepcion announced the signing of the americans Kerry Blackshear (195-G/F-73, agency: Duran International, college: Stetson) and Sanford Mark (206-F-76, college: Washington) for the upcoming Liga Sudamericana. Blackshear already played with the team in 1998, winning Dimayor title while Sanford will be playing his first games with the team. Both americans are supposed to arrived to the city on October 11 and will play only during Liga Sudamericana, because Dimayor's league allow one foreigner and with that spot is Jarrett Stephens (200-F/C-77, agency: Duran International, college: Penn St.).

The chilean team will be part of group A, alongside with Centro Juventud Sionista de Parana (Arg), Universo/BRB Brasilia (BRA), Libertad (Par) and will play the days 16, 17 and 18 of October in the city of Parana, Argentina.

Dimayor: Liceo is the number one seed for the playoffs - by Daniel Valencia
Liceo Mixto secured the first place in the regular season after a 76-71 victory against Everton on friday night. With this win, Liceo has the home court advantage thru the playoffs. Percy Werth (185-G-78) was the scoring leader for the two time champions with 19 points. CD universidad de Concepcion defeated Deportivo Valdivia 90-70 to reach the third seed for the upcoming playoffs. The shooting guard Evandro Arteaga (178-G-83) was the scoring leader for the winners with 28 points. These are the complete results.

Round 22

Everton 71 - Liceo Mixto 76
Eve: Julius Holt 21 pts. Oliver Hermosilla 12 pts.
Lic: Percy Werth 19 pts. Thurman Zimmerman 12 pts.

CD Universidad de Concepcion 90 - Deportivo Valdivia 70
Ucon: Evandro Arteaga 28 pts. Jarrett Stephens 19 pts.
Val: Rodrigo Munoz 15 pts. Gerardo Isla 15 pts.


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


Kastela too strong for Zrinjski in a friendly - by Eurobasket News
Kastela - Zrinjski 69-60

Kastela continued with its great pre-season form recording another friendly win. They squared of against Bosnian outfit Zrinjski and have managed to come out victorious. Kastelas players opened the game in style as they went on 10- 0 run. From there they continued to pound on their opponent, limiting them to only 9 first quarter points. After initial 10 minutes, Kastela was up 20-9. In the second quarter, we saw more of the same, as Kastela dominated at the both sides of the court. They played good defense, which enabled them easy points in transition. At the halftime, Kastela held comfortable 40-22 lead. In the second half, Zrinjski players consolidated and managed to make a 6-0 run to pen the third quarter. They continued to melt down the deficit, while playing significantly better defense. After allowing Kastela only 8 points, they trailed 48-37 with 10 minutes to go. The final quarter brought suspense, as Zrinjski players managed to even the score with 6 minutes left in the game. Still that was all they could do as Kastela went on to build another 9-point lead, which they kept for the rest of the way. In the end they celebrated 69-60 victory.
Stipe Rezic (201-G/F-89) scored 13 points for the winning side while Radic and Stjepan Tesija (205-F-89) added 12 points each. For Zrinjski, Mladen Gligora (204-C/F-82, agency: Court Side) and Petric were good with 15 points apiece. Tomislav Ramljak (203-F/C-85, agency: Court Side) finished the night with 10.

Kastela: Stipe Rezic 13, Radic 12, Stjepan Tesija 12
Zrinjski: Mladen Gligora 15, Petric 15, Tomislav Ramljak 10

*****************************************************
  CYPRUS   


Games of the 1st Tourmament - by Nasios Orinos
APOEL and APOLLON were the winners of the Zivanarion Tournament that takes place on the 1st and 2nd of October at Lefkotheo Indoor arena.

APOEL beat Achilleas by 30 (72-42), with Sise and Sims hitting 45% of the overall points.

APOEL: Van Dorpe 4, Sims 14 (2), Ionov, Foulks, Heith 5 (1), Roberts 11 (1), Anastasiades, Salivan 6 (1), Tamir 6, Pittaks 3 (1), Sise 18, King 5.

ACHILLEAS: Giannas 6 (1), Haris 15 (3), Garner 10, Matic 2, Bonou, Barlet 6, Stylianou, Bracy 3, Valeskofski, Theocharides.

Quarters: 9-17, 27-26, 49-37, 72-42.

AEL and APOLLON had a close game with APOLLON being more concentrate at the end and stealing the game by 81-78.

AEL: Liatsos, Stracy 4 (1), Davis 11 (1), Kounounis 6, Bozovic 5, Palalas 2, Migiovic 4, Fels 26 (5), Manousos 11, Kari 9 (1)

APOLLON: Bart 31 (3), Ioannides 9, David 4, Giosipovic 17. Mathious 12, Alexander 6, Li 7 (1), Englinski 2

Quarters: 20-22, 43-36, 59-61, 78-81.

Tonights games:
ACHILLEAS - AEL (5.15)
APOEL - APOLLON (7.30)


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


BK Nova Hut Ostrava Enters Season Under New Direction - by Surujh Roopnarine
New season new coach. Enter Zdenek Hummel as the new head coach for BK Nova Hut Ostrava. Though the team is coming off a 17-23 finish and first round ouster at the hands of Decin in the playoffs, Hummel will have to work with a relatively young squad for the new NBL campaign. Gone is the second leading scorer of the 2008-09 season, Marcus Arnold along with former Clemson Tiger Shawan Robinson, Marku Muzikov and Petr Bohacik, who is now in Pardubice. Returning guard Mike Mitchell (183-G-83, college: N.Mexico St.), who was hampered by injuries that limited him to only 26 games last season, will be relied upon to carry the weight of this young but talented team. Joining Mitchell is a pair of American big men, who will have a lot to prove if they are to be successful this season. J.R. Inman (206-F-87, college: Rutgers) is a talented yet erratic center who never reached his full potential at Rutgers. Ryan Mueller (203-F-86, agency: ProSportsCareers, college: Carroll) will have to show that his above average production at the NCAA DIII level can translate to the NBL. The team is admittedly also looking to bring more experience to the squad and will be scouring the free agent market eagerly if the season does not begin well.

BK Nova Hut Ostrava 2009-2010 Roster
7 Michal Palat (194-G-90)
8 Lukas Palyza (203-F-89)
9 J.R. Inman
10 Marek Stuchly (196-F-75)
11 Adam Ciz (190-G-91)
14 Martin Gniadek (202-F/C-90)
15 Kordian Korytek (212-C-75)
16 Mike Mitchell
17 Filip Zbranek (192-G-89)
21 Martin Madera (203-C-87)
24 Kamil Kudlacek (192-G-88)
31 Jan Stehlik (182-G-86)
32 Ryan Mueller
33 Rostislav Uhlir (198-F-86)
34 Martin Kovar


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


Claws begin process of filling roster - by Eurobasket News
When most people go for a job interview, appropriate attire is required.

For the 50-or-so young men who will attend the Maine Red Claws' Northeast Regional tryout Saturday at the University of Massachusetts at Boston, sneakers, shorts and a good jump shot are the essentials.

'This is like a job interview,' said Jon Jennings, the president and general manager of the Red Claws. 'You want to impress the boss. You'll be watched from the moment you walk in.'

The Red Claws, Portland's newest professional sports team and an affiliate of the Boston Celtics and Charlotte Bobcats in the NBA Developmental League, will be looking for a few good men in this tryout camp, which will run from 8 a.m. to 6 p.m. The team already held a tryout in Charlotte, N.C., where more than 100 players displayed their skills.

Jennings said the team would like to sign one to three players from the two tryouts to compete in training camp.

'We're actually looking for everything,' said Jennings. 'We're in a unique situation, which this team will never have again. We literally have 10 roster spots to fill. As of today, we do not have one player under contract.'

The Red Claws selected the rights to 10 players in the D-League's expansion draft, but many are committed elsewhere either overseas or at an NBA camp. Only three of the 10 players selected guard Billy Thomas of Kansas and forwards Noel Felix of Fresno State and Andre Patterson of Tennessee haven't signed elsewhere.

So the Red Claws have plenty of needs, which is why Jennings isn't being specific about what the team is looking for. 'A couple of guys really stood out down in Charlotte,' said Jennings. 'After Saturday, we'll sit down (Jennings and the coaching staff) and basically decide who we're bringing to camp.'

Many of the players coming to the tryouts have played in college. 'I can't tell you the number of calls I've gotten from agents asking to see if their guys can come to camp,' said Jennings. 'And these are real agents, not someone operating from the back seat of their car.'

But Jennings fully expects to get some streetball players, too.

'There are guys who simply want to say they tried out for a pro team,' he said. 'There are guys who never really played organized ball, in high school or college, but are pretty good on asphalt courts. Others come from very tiny, tiny, tiny colleges who never got scouted. And there are guys who have a little bit of a rep, that you've heard of, but haven't had the break that they wanted.

'It runs the gamut. These are players doing everything they can to make a team.'

Among the players trying out will be Jamaal Caterina, the former Deering High and USM star; Robert Pilsbury, from Portland and Husson; Brian Wohl, from Westbrook and Stonehill College; and Matt Clement, a former Lawrence High player now living in Portland.

The registration fee is $150 in advance, or $200 for those who show up at the door. But not just anyone can take part: participants must meet D-League eligibility requirements. Registration forms are online at www.nba.com/dleague/maine/tryoutsnortheast.html.

The Red Claws staff, which includes head coach Austin Ainge and his assistants, Randy Livingston and Mike Procopio, will put the players through drills and scrimmages.

'What we're really looking for is basketball IQ,' said Jennings. 'I think that's what separates players, average players from good players, and the great players take it to a completely different level.'

Courtesy of www.pressherald.mainetoday.com


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


BC Kalev/Cramo added Blagoj Janev - by Janar Filippov
BC Kalev/Cramo has added another foreign player to its roster. Blagoj Janev (203-F-84, college: New Hampshire) has never played in any European league, although he was born in FYR.Macedonia and has Macedonian citizenship.
Last season he played for Auckland, averaging 20.3 ppg and 7.5 rpg in NZL championships. He has represented Australia in U21 and U18 world championships.
Janev will make his European debut on Saturday when Kalev/Cramo faces VEF Riga in SEB Baltic Basketball League.

*****************************************************
  EUROCUP   


Crvena Zvezda adds Bailey - by Philip Mulryne
Serbian powerhouse Crvena Zvezda came up with its latest transfer, Maurice Bailey. The point guard arrives from Spartak Primorie where he has averaged 15.5 points and 3.8 asists in 22 games at Russian League. Bailey helped Union OLimpija to get the Slovenian Cup in 2008, played with Lokomotiv Rostov, Brest and Nancy, where he saw the French league finals in 2005 and 2006. Red Star have already appointed Aco Petrovic as their head coach recently.

*****************************************************
  EUROLEAGUE   


Orleans, Benetton, ALBA and Marousi advance to Qualifying Round 2 - by Eurobasket News
Orleans - Charleroi 81-56
Orleans smashed Charleroi today 81-56 advancing to second qualification round. It means that the French representative will take on Benetton Treviso, also in two games. The winner will book a spot for Euroleague regular season. Ryvon Covile (206-C-84, agency: ZAG Advocates, college: Detroit Mercy) stepped up for the hosts today with 17 points. Cedrick Banks (190-G-81, college: Ill.-Chicago) had 15, while Justin Doellman (206-F-85, college: Xavier) added four points less. In Charleroi, Jerry Johnson (183-G-82, agency: Hart Sports Mngm, college: Rider) had 15 pts. Justin Hamilton (191-G-80, college: Florida) stopped on 10. As a reminder, Game 1 between these two teams ended 55-53 for Charleroi.

Benetton TV - Ventspils 88-76
Benetton managed to beat Ventspils today 88-76 and to reach the second qualification round. The team from Treviso survived in Latvia in Game 1 and today had couple of players in a game mood, what was enough for comfortable 12-point win. It is clear that Ventspils missed its chance in the first meeting. Daniel Hackett (196-G-87, college: USC) top-scored in victory with 22 points. Gary Neal (193-G-84, college: Towson) had 15, Sandro Nicevic (210-C-76, agency: Beo Basket) 14 and Judson Wallace (205-F/C-82, agency: Elfus-Siegel Management (ESM), college: Princeton) collected 12 points and 9 rebounds. In defeat, Mareks Jurevicus (198-G/F-85) and Dairis Bertans (192-G/F-89) delivered 16 points each. Janis Strelnieks (191-G-89) had one less.

ALBA - Le Mans 77-62
ALBA Berlin registered comfortable 77-62 win against Le Mans in Game 2 of Euroleague qualifications. It means that the German runner-up goes to the second round, where it will take on Greek Maroussi. As a reminder, first game belonged to Le Mans 61-60. Julius Jenkins (187-G-81, agency: Pro One Sports, college: Georgia Southern) and Adam Chubb (207-F/C-81, agency: Pro One Sports, college: Pennsylvania) delivered 12 points each in victory (Chubb had 8 rebounds beside that). Blagota Sekulic (209-F/C-82, agency: FCM) posted 11 pts for 18 minutes. Le Mans got 16 from Dewarick Spencer (193-G-82, agency: Higher Vision Sports, college: Arkansas St.). Marc Salyers (205-F-79, college: Samford) and Joao Lopes Batista (207-F/C-81, college: Gonzaga) had 15 each.

C.C. Marousi - Aris 89-60
Costa Cafe Marousi blasted Aris in the second game of Euroleague qualifications (Round 1). In the first it was 69-67 for Aris meaning that Marousi collected huge plus 27 and it advanced to the second round. There, the Greeks will take on ALBA Berlin. After two games it will be clear who will book a spot for Euroleague regular season. William Amar Keys (188-G-77, college: N.Mexico St.) stepped up for the hosts with 18 points and 8 rebounds. Mihalis Pelekanos (198-F-81) also shined with 18, while Kostas Kaimakoglou (206-C/F-83) helped with one point less. Nikos Chatzivrettas (195-G-77) and Keydren Clark (173-G-84, college: St.Peter's) posted 15 pts each in loss.

Stats Leaders
Points Per Game
 Igor RAKOCEVIC
  Efes Pilsen
  (191-G-78)
  Avg: 17.8
 1. Rakocevic, Caja L.17.8 
 2. McIntyre, Montepas.17.3 
 3. Logan, Assec.Pr.17.0 
 4. Warren, Air AV16.2 
 5. Turkcan, Fener.Ul.15.4 
 6. Becirovic, Lottomat.14.8 
 7. Kaukenas, Montepas.14.8 
 8. Navarro, Regal B.14.7 
 9. Arroyo, Maccabi .14.6 
 10. Eliyahu, Maccab.14.0 
Rebounds Per Game
 Loren WOODS
  CAI Zaragoza
  (213-C-78)
  Avg: 9
 1. Woods, Zalgiris9.0 
 2. Turkcan, Fener.Ul.8.6 
 3. Jankunas, Zalgiris8.0 
 4. Fischer, Maccabi .7.7 
 5. Bourousis, Olympiakos7.4 
 6. Julian, Nancy7.3 
 7. Ilyasova, Regal B.7.0 
 8. Burke, Assec.Pr.6.9 
 9. Eliyahu, Maccabi .6.6 
 10. Gonlum, Efes Pils.6.5 
Assists Per Game
 Thodoros PAPALOUKAS
  Olympiakos
  (200-G-77)
  Avg: 5.2
 1. Papaloukas, Olymp.5.2 
 2. Cook, Unicaja5.1 
 3. Mallet, DKV J.4.6 
 4. McIntyre, Montepas.4.4 
 5. Prigioni, Caja L.4.3 
 6. Arroyo, Maccabi .4.1 
 7. Becirovic, Lottomat.3.8 
 8. Navarro, Regal B.3.6 
 9. Spanoulis, Panath.3.5 
 10. Tepic, Partiz.3.4 
Steals Per Game
 David LOGAN
  Assec.Prokom
  (184-G-82)
  Avg: 2.7
 1. Logan, Assec.Pr.2.7 
 2. Stonerook, Montepas.2.5 
 3. Smith, Efes Pilsen2.2 
 4. Green, Fener.Ulker2.0 
 5. Anderson, Cibona2.0 
 6. Jaaber, Lottomat.1.9 
 7. Miles, Panionios1.9 
 8. Sato, Montepaschi1.8 
 9. McIntyre, Montepas.1.7 
 10. Julian, Nan.1.6 
Blocks Per Game
 Loren WOODS
  CAI Zaragoza
  (213-C-78)
  Avg: 2.4
 1. Woods, Zalgiris2.4 
 2. Fischer, Maccabi .1.8 
 3. Vazquez, Regal B.1.7 
 4. Begic, U.Olimpija1.7 
 5. Splitter, Caja L.1.6 
 6. Lasme, Partizan1.6 
 7. Ndong, Unicaja1.3 
 8. Eze, Montepaschi1.2 
 9. Archibald, Unicaja1.1 
 10. Vasilopoulos, Olym.1.1 


Standings
Euroleague Standings
Group A
 1. Regal Barca 0-0 
 2. Zalgiris 0-0 
 3. Cibona 0-0 
 4. Montepaschi 0-0 
 5. Fener.Ulker 0-0 
 6. ASVEL 0-0 
Group B
 1. Lietuvos 0-0 
 2. Efes Pilsen 0-0 
 3. Partizan 0-0 
 4. Unicaja 0-0 
 5. Olympiakos 0-0 
Group C
 1. CSKA 0-0 
 2. Lottomatica 0-0 
 3. Maccabi T-A 0-0 
 4. Tau 0-0 
 5. U.Olimpija 0-0 
Group D
 1. Asec.Prokom 0-0 
 2. EWE Baskets 0-0 
 3. Khimky 0-0 
 4. Real Madrid 0-0 
 5. Armani MI 0-0 
 6. Panathinaikos 0-0 
Group Q
 1. Benetton 1-1 
 2. ALBA 1-1 
 3. Aris 1-1 
 4. Orleans 1-1 
 5. Le Mans 1-1 
 6. C.C. Marousi 1-1 
 7. Charleroi 1-1 
 8. BK Ventspils 1-1 


Partizan tour update from Detroit - by Eurobasket
by David Maravilla
the most recent game between BC Partizan Igokea Beograd and The Midwest All Stars:BC Partizan Igokea Beograd 101-Midwest All Stars 81
BC Partizan Igokea Beograd Belgrade and the Midwest All Stars met for the second time in four days,this time in Detroit .BC Partizan Igokea Beograd suffered a major blow early as Jan Vesely (211-F-90) collided head first with another player and had to be taken out of the game. He suffered a cut on his forehead and recieved several stiches . Jan looked to be fine after the game.
The game itself was a close contest for the first twenty four minutes as BC Partizan Igokea Beograd finished the half with a five point lead. BC Partizan Igokea Beograd played a very disciplined second half and their offense was working with precision and expanded the lead to twenty points. .Alexsander Rasic and Alexsander Maric each finished with Eighteen points while Midwest All Stars were lead by Ali Berdiel (198-G-83, college: Valparaiso) with Eighteen points and six assists Robert Traylor (204-F/C-77, agency: Lanshire Group, college: Michigan) added fourteen points for the All Stars.


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


KORISLIIGA: Tip off tonight - by Rauno Hurmalainen
Korisliiga (Top League) tip off (2009-2010) tonight on October 2! 12 Teams, seven months, 44 rounds during the regular season, 265 games + play-off-games. Finnish Champion will be clear by May 8. Last season top three: 1) YMCA Lahti, 2) Kataja (Joensuu), 3) Pyrinto (Tampere). Finnish players + 34 players from USA, two from BIH and one from EST, NIG and CAN. The youngest player Mikael Herbert (201-F-93) (Korihait, Uusikaupunki), 16, 201 cm, and the oldest player Mark Davis (200-G/F-73, agency: ACMT, college: Texas Tech) (YMCA LPR), 36, 200 cm. The opening round: Oct. 2: Kauhajoki - Honka, Korihait - FoKoPo, Pyrinto - Kouvot, Torpan Pojat - YMCA Lappeenranta, Vilpas - KTP, YMCA Lahti - Kataja.

Standings - Korisliiga
Korisliiga Standings
 1. Honka 1-0 
 2. KTP 1-0 
 3. Namika Lahti 1-0 
 4. Korihait 1-0 
 5. Pyrinto 1-0 
 6. ToPo 1-0 
 7. Kauhajoki 0-1 
 8. Kataja 0-1 
 9. LrNMKY 0-1 
 10. Salon Vilpas 0-1 
 11. Kouvot 0-1 
 12. FoKoPo 0-1 


KORISLIIGA: YMCA Lahti won the thriller - by Rauno Hurmalainen
Korisliiga, Round 1: The new season got started. No big upsets, but some teams were still up and down during the 40 minutes. One real thriller as last spring
finalists YMCA Lahti and Kataja (Joensuu) met eachother in Lahti. Home team won by two 87-85. Tyrone Riley (201-F-82, college: USF) was at once game MVP with a double-double 24pts and 13rbs. Ville Vesala (188-G-83) was one point shy to reach his personal best on top level. Another close game in Tampere, where Pyrinto beat finally Kouvot (Kouvola) by 11 pts 77-66. Chris Hester (192-G/F-79, college: E.Washington) led Pyrinto with 20 pts. Kouvot got 19pts and 14rbs from Ross Neltner (206-F-85, agency: Hart Sports Mngm, college: Vanderbilt). Kouvot was 0/13 from behind the arc! The only player scoring over 30 pts was Arizona Reid (196-F-86, college: High Point). Reid led Korihait (Uusikaupunki) with 31pts and 11rbs, as Korihait crushed FoKoPo (Forssa) 90-65.

YMCA Lahti - Kataja 87-85 (37-41) (Tyrone Riley 24/13, Ville Vesala 20, Peter Mulligan 15 - Petri Virtanen 23, Kendall Jones 19/10, Sami Lehtoranta 16).
Pyrinto - Kouvot 77-66 (33-38) (Chris Hester 20, Kenny Lowe 19, Antero Lehto 14 - Ross Neltner 19/14, Ajene Moye 18, Jukka Kataja 13/10).
Kauhajoki - Honka 76-98 (46-51) (Marcel Jones 19, Maurice Horton 15, Eldar Skamo 12 - Carl Elliot 20/6a, Tuukka Kotti 16, Anselmi Vanjoki 15).
ToPo - YMCA Lappeenranta 76-57 (32-36) (Obie Trotter 24, Corey Smith 16, Timo Heinonen 15 - Robert Turner 19/11, Sami Pekkola 17/12).
Korihait - FoKoPo 90-65 (39-39) (Arizona AZ Reid 31/11, Josh Gonner 16, Jussi Kumpulainen 13 - Durell Vinson 19, Rodrick Stewart 11, Kwamena Brace 10).
Vilpas - KTP 67-75 (32-23) (Charlie Burgess 23/5a, Antonio McMillion 15, Darryl Dora 7/12 - Herman Favors 27/5a, Isaac Spencer 19/12, Ryan McDade 16/10).


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


Standings - ProA
ProA Standings
 1. Dijon 1-0 
 2. Paris-Levall. 0-0 
 3. Cholet 0-0 
 4. Gravelines 0-0 
 5. Le Mans 0-0 
 6. Roanne 0-0 
 7. Nancy 0-0 
 8. Strasbourg 0-0 
 9. Hyeres-Toulon 0-0 
 10. Le Havre 0-0 
 11. Chalon 0-0 
 12. Vichy 0-0 
 13. Orleans 0-0 
 14. Rouen 0-0 
 15. Poitiers 0-0 
 16. ASVEL 0-1 


Standings - ProB
ProB Standings
 1. St.Vallier 2-0 
 2. Le Portel 2-0 
 3. Nanterre 1-0 
 4. Limoges 1-0 
 5. Pau-Lacq-Ort. 1-0 
 6. Evreux 1-0 
 7. Maurienne 1-1 
 8. Antibes 1-1 
 9. Nantes 1-1 
 10. Bordeaux 1-1 
 11. Lille 1-1 
 12. Boulazac 0-1 
 13. Charleville 0-1 
 14. Quimper 0-1 
 15. Fos Ouest 0-1 
 16. Bourg 0-1 
 17. Brest 0-1 
 18. Clermont 0-2 


Stats Leaders - ProA
Points Per Game
 Austin NICHOLS
  Orleans
  (198-G/F-82)
  Avg: 21.4
 1. Nichols, Hyeres-T.21.4 
 2. Rush, Strasbourg20.6 
 3. Thompson, Le Havre18.1 
 4. Monroe, Roanne16.1 
 5. Skinn, Gravelines16.0 
 6. Slaughter, Le Havre16.0 
 7. Harper, Roanne15.6 
 8. Spencer, Le Mans15.5 
 9. Dixon, Le Mans15.4 
 10. Banks, Orlea.15.0 
Rebounds Per Game
 Marcus SLAUGHTER
  Nancy
  (203-F-85)
  Avg: 9.5
 1. Slaughter, Le Havre9.5 
 2. Merriex, Le Havre8.6 
 3. Masingue, Hyeres-T.8.6 
 4. Issa, Vichy8.5 
 5. Nsomwu, Roanne8.3 
 6. Akingbala, Nancy7.6 
 7. Koffi, Le Mans7.4 
 8. Falker, Cholet7.3 
 9. Greer, Nancy7.1 
 10. Lewin, Strasbou.6.9 
Assists Per Game
 Kareem REID
  Vichy
  (178-G-75)
  Avg: 7.7
 1. Reid, Vichy7.7 
 2. Rogers, Hyeres-T.6.4 
 3. Wright, Chalon6.4 
 4. Hodge, Besancon6.1 
 5. Thompson, Le Havre5.9 
 6. Dixon, Le Mans5.8 
 7. Sciarra, Orleans5.3 
 8. Greer, Nancy5.1 
 9. Pellin, Roanne4.2 
 10. Spencer, Le Ma.3.7 
Steals Per Game
 Zack WRIGHT
  Le Mans
  (188-G-85)
  Avg: 2.5
 1. Wright, Chalon2.5 
 2. Dobbins, Orleans2.4 
 3. Rush, Strasbourg2.2 
 4. Dixon, Le Mans2.1 
 5. Rogers, Hyeres-T.2.0 
 6. Grier, Cholet1.9 
 7. Banks, Orleans1.9 
 8. Causeur, Le Havre1.8 
 9. Greene, Orleans1.8 
 10. Stanley, Gravelin.1.8 
Blocks Per Game
 Michel NASCIMENTO
  Rouen
  (208-C-78)
  Avg: 1
 1. Nascimento, Rouen1.0 
 2. Gunn, Besancon0.9 
 3. Greer, Nancy0.9 
 4. Chase, Le Mans0.8 
 5. Simon, Strasbourg0.8 
 6. Moss, Vichy0.8 
 7. Rush, Strasbourg0.8 
 8. Bojic, Le Havre0.8 
 9. Laing, Le Havre0.8 
 10. Hawkins, Besanc.0.7 


Stats Leaders - ProB
Points Per Game
 Loren WOODS
  CAI Zaragoza
  (213-C-78)
  Avg:
 1. Fein, St Quentin19.0 
 2. Carter, St Etienne17.3 
 3. Wright, Poitiers16.8 
 4. Younger, Poitiers16.6 
 5. Tucker, St Quentin14.5 
 6. Porter, St Quentin13.7 
 7. Williams, St Etienne13.3 
 8. Elliott, Paris-.12.4 
 9. Ekanga-Ehawa, Paris-.12.4 
 10. Wyatte, Paris-.12.4 
Rebounds Per Game
 Loren WOODS
  CAI Zaragoza
  (213-C-78)
  Avg:
 1. Humbert, St Qu.9.0 
 2. Younger, Poitiers7.8 
 3. Jean-B., Paris-.7.2 
 4. Guillard, Poitiers6.8 
 5. Wyatte, Paris-Le.6.2 
 6. Carter, St Etienne6.1 
 7. Elliott, Paris-.5.8 
 8. Tucker, St Quentin5.5 
 9. James, St Etienne5.5 
 10. Horace, St Quent.5.2 
Assists Per Game
 Loren WOODS
  CAI Zaragoza
  (213-C-78)
  Avg:
 1. Williams, St Etienne6.3 
 2. Gomez, Poitiers5.5 
 3. Ball, Paris-Levallois4.7 
 4. Morlende, St Qu.4.3 
 5. Fein, St Quentin3.6 
 6. Karangwa, Paris-.3.3 
 7. Joldersma, St Et.2.4 
 8. Phillips, St Etienne2.3 
 9. Wright, Poitiers2.1 
 10. Pons, St Etien.2.0 
Steals Per Game
 Loren WOODS
  CAI Zaragoza
  (213-C-78)
  Avg:
 1. Williams, St Etienne2.0 
 2. Ball, Paris-Levallois2.0 
 3. Gomez, Poitiers1.7 
 4. Porter, St Quentin1.6 
 5. Joldersma, St Et.1.4 
 6. Fein, St Quentin1.4 
 7. Guillard, Poitiers1.2 
 8. Wright, Poitiers1.2 
 9. Phillips, St Etienne1.2 
 10. Karangwa, Pari.1.2 
Blocks Per Game
 Loren WOODS
  CAI Zaragoza
  (213-C-78)
  Avg:
 1. Tucker, St Quentin1.4 
 2. Carter, St Etienne0.9 
 3. Fein, St Quentin0.8 
 4. Jean-B., Paris-.0.8 
 5. Wyatte, Paris-Le.0.7 
 6. Horace, St Quentin0.7 
 7. Ball, Paris-Levallois0.6 
 8. James, St Etienne0.6 
 9. Karangwa, Paris-.0.6 
 10. Younger, Poitie.0.6 


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


47 time Israel Champion Maccabi Tel Aviv And The Alan Anderson Show Take Apart The Deutsche Bank Skyliners 95-69 - by Miles Schmidt-Scheuber
Maccabi Tel Aviv flew into Basketball City, Frankfurt with an incredible strong force like the Concord, while Alan Anderson (198-G/F-82, college: Michigan St.) (198-G/F-82, college: Michigan St.) came in on an SR 71 Blackbird (worlds fastest plane) and seemed to be more in the air then on the floor doing his magic keeping The Deutsche Bank Skyliners in awe and winning 95 to 69 in a preseason game. The 47 time Israel champion showed why they belong to the top teams in Europe. 'We played well in the first half, but couldnt keep up in the second half. I told the guys that the first five minutes of the third quarter were the most important, but Maccabi blew the game wide open and that is why they belong to the top 5 teams in Europe', stressed American Derrick Allen (203-F-80, agency: Pro One Sports, college: Mississippi). Maccabi not only play like a top team, but also have the confidence needed to be at the top. 'We are a better team. It is as simple as that. We have so many players that can score, that it makes playing so much easier', stressed 2003 New York Knick draft pick Maciej Lampe (210-C-85, agency: Edge Sports). Except for guys like Pascal Roller (180-G-76), Derrick Allen, Jimmy McKinney (192-G-83, agency: Strategic Sports, college: Missouri) and Dominik Bahiense De Mello, who have seen these type of big name players before, it was a game where the young Skyliners could gain some experience and possibly also register a memory that they could tell their grand kids in 20 years. 'This was a great learning experience for us. We saw at what kind of level basketball can be played at. They seemed to have the extra pass on almost every play. It was just amazing to see this kind of play and I think we can take a lot of this game into the future which will help us', stressed German Marius Nolte (206-C-81, agency: Limelight Hoops). The game seemed like two games as Frankfurt was on the court in the first half and in the movie theatre in the second half watching the Alan Anderson (198-G/F-82, college: Michigan St.) dunk show spectacular and his side kicks wheeling and dealing from all over the court. 'They hit their shots in the second half while we missed too many. We also got too lazy on defense in the second half', added Qarran Calhoun (203-F-86, agency: Hart Sports Mngm, college: Houston).

Deutsche Bank Skyliner coach Murat Didin (agency: Interperformances )n was not pleased with the result of the second half of his team and at first was not content in talking to the press, but then did. Not having Didin speak or give his five cent to what happened in the game is about as rare as if Tom Brady of the New England Patriots goes a game without getting a touchdown as was the case against The New Jets two weeks ago which hadnt happened in three years. Didin obviously wasnt happy with the loss, but there was a huge difference in the experience and talent, but as always he stayed diplomatic and was content that Maccabi made the trip for the second time in the last year for a test game in Frankfurt. 'It was a big honour to be able to play MaccabiTel Aviv again. I would have liked to have played them with Reese and we may of continued to stick with them in the second half. We simply did not have the power to stay with them in the second half. We have to continue to work hard each day', stressed Skyliner coach Murat Didin (agency: Interperformances )n. The game also brought together two friends with Murat Didin (agency: Interperformances ) and Tel Aviv skipper Pini Gershon (agency: Arik Krayn Services ) who have known each other for the longest time and always had interesting coaching battles. Gershon who is quite the character and seems to have a difficult time accepting defeat. Who could forget how he almost broke off a test game in 2006 with Piraeus at the BCM as ex Skyliner coach Charles Barton calmed down the skipper and last season stopping a game in the BCM. Didin and Gershon have a special friendship that seems to go way back before Didin was even born. 'There are so many funny stories that we have had. The stories go back all the way to New York in World War 2. Pini has a good heart and is a good friend. I beat him some times as coach with Ulker Istanbuhl, but he has beat me more. However I do remember that he felt the Euroleague loses against us very much', joked Murat Didin (agency: Interperformances )n.

The story of the game was 26 year old American Alan Anderson (198-G/F-82, college: Michigan St.) who in 40 minutes might of even had the smallest kid forget his hero Michael Jordan (199-F-63, college: N.Carolina) and risk asking daddy who that big dude in the air was with the thunderous dunk. Anderson is a 198cm shooting guard/small forward that had a standout career at Michigan State and played 53 games with the NBA Charlotte Bobcats. He came to Europe a few years ago and wasnt happy with Triumph Moscow since hardly any plays were involving his potent offensive skills. He seems to have found a home with Maccabi Tel Aviv. 'He was not comfortable in Moscow. But Maccabi plays more his style. He likes the open court and he is a fantastic finisher around the rim. I love to play with him, because he can match my speed and he likes to run with me on the fast break', stated 2005-2006 BBL top scorer Andrew Wisniewski (191-G-81, college: Centenary) Anderson finished with 25 points on 10/11 shooting and gave the BCM fans something to remember with a pulsating ally-op dunk, where he seemed to be in the air longer then it takes Usain Bolt to run a record 100 meter run. For many his last dunk may have been the best performance ever seen, but for Anderson it was just another day at the office. 'I have had better dunks then that and it was not even close to being an Air Jordan dunk', stressed Anderson.

Even though most Skyliners didnt want to mention how awestruck they were by the DUNK, there was no Skyliner that werent amazed. 'That was a pretty good dunk by him. I saw him play at Michigan State when I was younger. He can really play', said Qarran Calhoun. Even though Derrick Allen had a strong game, it seemed like the overall play of Anderson kept the play of Allen in the shadow. 'That dunk was beautiful. He defiantly knows that he can go up and dunk like that. His show was good for the fans, but it was not close to Air Jordan, but he got up there pretty nice and it was pretty to see', stated Derrick Allen. Skyliner Greg Jenkins (206-F/C-82, college: Iona) who usually is very quiet and sometimes seems like he has an invisible cloth over his mouth to keep him from speaking suddenly got talkative and showed a sparkle in his eyes as the Anderson dunk was mentioned. 'That Anderson dunk was nice. He is a very athletic kid. But to be honest, I have seen dunks like that before', said Greg Jenkins. With so many athletic players on the Maccabi squad seeing incredible dunks is nothing new and commonplace like waiting for the bus each morning at 7am. 'We get a lot of dunks in games, because we have so many athletic players. It is nice seeing more dunks in practice each day', joked Polish national player Maciej Lampe (210-C-85, agency: Edge Sports). 'Anderson is an incredible athlete. He gets paid to attack the rim, expressed Seth Doliboa (203-F/C-80, agency: Hart Sports Mngm, college: Wright St.).

The BCM was packed for this one of a kind exhibition game as two extra stands were put in place for the game. There seemed to be two cheering sides. One which was obvious for The Deutsche Bank Sklyiners, but the second not quite as obvious since it was not for Maccabi Tel Aviv, but for ex Giessen player Chuck Eidson (201-F/G-80, agency: Court Side, college: S.Carolina). An estimated 25 fans made the trip from Giessen with a big sign reading Giessen MVP. The fan support quickly gave Eidson big motivation as he would be a central figure in the Maccabi offense attack in the early going. The first quarter was pretty tight and very quick as Frankfurt had all their strength and stayed with Maccabi. Derrick Allen was very strong scoring four points and Frankfurt was keen in getting Jenkins involved. Since the Phoenix Cup, Jenkins has been very exerted and more physical which should be giving Didin joy. Maccabi was going inside a lot in the early going but also very dangerous from outside hitting most jumpers. Both teams traded three pointers as Wisniewski, Lampe, Mckinney and Wisniewski again hit from outside as Maccabi led 13-11. Allen tied the score with a nice lay up inside after a quick pass from Mckinney off the penetration. Maccabi would lead for a few minutes 17-14 as Eidson hit a three pointer and Pnini made a lay in off a pretty feed from Eidson.

Now Frankfurt had one of their best runs of the first quarter going on a 8-2 run as they took a chapter out of Maccabis playbook running the fast break. Greg Jenkins made a steal and led the fast break which looked a bit unorthadox with him dribbling, but he quickly found Calhoun for a one handed dunk. Then it was Jenkins again with a steal as he found Mckinney and he dumped off a pass to Calhoun for two points. Captain Pascal Roller followed with a clutch three pointer giving Frankfurt the lead 21-19. After one quarter, the score was tied 23-23. Both teams seemed to have found their rhythm on offense, but were still looking to seal off the holes on defense. 'The game was pretty even in the first quarter. Frankfurt was shooting pretty well. It was strange that Maccabi wasnt really going hard inside, but more over the pick and roll. Lampe was hard to stop', stressed Frankfurt PRO B forward Armin Willemsen (200-F-85, agency: Heinrich Sports). Frankfurt was shooting 63% from the field and 40% from outside, while Maccabi was shooting 44% from the field and 50% from outside. Frankfurt was leading the rebound fight at 7-6 while both teams were even at three turnovers a piece.

In the second quarter, the game stayed close and Frankfurt regained the lead back at 26-25 with an Allen free throw, but they would never lead again in the game. The game started getting more physical and Anderson made the fans cringe the first time with a fulminating dunk on an ally-op pass from Guy Pnini (201-G/F-83, agency: Arik Krayn Services) (201-G/F-83, agency: Arik Krayn Services) Maccabi started doing some real damage scoring more down low as Doliboa was a bit late on a Stephane Lasme (203-F-82, college: Massachusetts) reverse lay up and on a D or Fischer two handed dunk. That was the lone bright spot for the ex Oldenburger as he got two quick fouls and a turnover and got an early shower call as Gershon took him out and never brought him in again. Maccabi led 33-30, and got a quick 4-0 run from Anderson as he scored twice inside with his patent hard drives to the hoop not taking any prisoners. Anderson and Doron Perkins (188-G-83, college: Santa Clara) were working together very well in this phase and the Frankfurt defense had immense problems shutting down this duo.

Frankfurt stayed tough down the stretch never giving up, but had difficulty getting back to even. Lampe, who is always difficult to stop with his fade away jumper or his inside game, scored on a lay in. 'I thought that I played ok against him. He is pretty skilled. He is physical and I just tried to body him up. But to be honest, I wasn't shocked by their inside game', added Greg Jenkins. Lampe saw no fear getting any problems with Frankfurt down low. 'We were ok inside tonight. Frankfurt arent one of the bigger teams and dont have much size inside, so we took advantage of it', said Lampe. Nolte then responded with a half lay in hook shot that somehow went in. It didnt look pretty, but these type of shots is something that Frankfurt fans will have to get used to from Nolte. With a few seconds remaining, Moyer made a shot falling from the wing to send Frankfurt into half time trailing only 42-37. 'Maccabi was pretty consistent in the second quarter while Frankfurt started to miss more shots. The problem is when playing against top teams like Maccabi, the individual class of the players make a big difference', stressed Armin Willemsen. At half time, the Frankfurt shooting had made a nose dive to 39% form the field and 18% from the parking lot while Maccabi was shooting 53% from the field and 33% from the parking lot. Frankfurt was still dominating the rebounding at 18-17 while both teams were dead locked at eight turnovers a piece.

Maccabi Tel Aviv left the second quarter as a 500 SL Mercedes and The Deutsche Bank Skyliners a 300 Mercedes and after going through the quick BCM car wash, Maccabi returned as a Lamborghini and Frankfurt a Renault. It didnt help Frankfurt that Maccabi shifted up a few gears and Frankfurt down a few. Tel Aviv went on a 22-8 run to start the third quarter to lead 64-45 and dash any hopes of getting the young Skyliner fans into bed at 21:30 with a smile on their faces. Maccabi was doing it from all over the floor. Anderson and Perkins buried three pointers, but the biggest crush for Frankfurt was the continued bashing inside and the fast break play of Tel Aviv. Green, Anderson, Limonad and Pnini all scored inside and the Frankfurt defense had absolutely no cure. 'This team is so athletic. They really started to push in the third quarter. If you let a team like Maccabi get started, then they can really get going. When you play a team like Maccabi, then every thing has to be working and each guy has to be on the same page. It just got out of control in the second half and we couldnt come back', commented Seth Doliboa.

In the down stretch of the third quarter, it was time for the Israel national players to shine as they got a bulk of the scoring. Pnini scored twice and Limonad once. Both these guys also worked very well together sneaking into the zone and scoring. Doliboa also had some bright spots as he scored inside getting an offensive rebound and making a shot from the wing. After 30 minutes, Maccabi had the comfortable 74-50 lead. 'We dropped our heads a bit after Maccabi came out in the third quarter. It was really difficult to defend, because we always had to be alert and they always went over pick and role finding the open guy which we just couldnt stop', expressed Marius Nolte. The Frankfurt shooting continued to get weaker as they were shooting 36% from the field and 17% from the three point line while Maccabi was shooting 57% form the field and 36% from the three point line.

In the fourth quarter, the strength of The Deutsche Bank Skyliners continued to subdue as Maccabi Tel Aviv gave the word fast break a new meaning as it seemed like coach Pini Gershon (agency: Arik Krayn Services ) had told his players to keep running and running and scoring over the transition, because any other method would get the team bus cancelled and the players would have to run the 3-4 kilometers back to the hotel. Maccabi scored on the transition with Anderson twice and Eidson. The lone Frankfurt bright spot in the first few minutes was Derrick Allen who continued to play his game and score tough points inside. Frankfurt then went on a rare 5-0 run as Doliboa hit a three pointer and Mckinney a jumper. Maccabi still led 81-59 and Frankfurt was at the base of the mountain and very far from the peak. Then it was time for the moment where Anderson made his monster ally-op dunk that surely was the wildest dunk ever seen in the BCM. Anderson is a player that could easily dazzle in the NBA and it has been a few years since his NBA tenure, but he still has a very confident and semi-arrogant aura in his posture and look, but only for people that dont know him.' His demeanour has to do more with his American personality. He is a normal guy and talks all the time, stressed Wisniewski.

Murat Didin (agency: Interperformances ) had brought in German youngsters Fabian Franke (198-F-88) and Filmore Beck (189-G-91) that were probably more star struck than anything else. Beck was only two years old, when Maccabi veteran Derrick Sharp came to Israel in 1993. Franke hit a jumper from the corner cutting the Maccabi lead to 83-61. Wisniewski then strutted through the tiny holes in the zone for a lay up. In the last few minutes, Maccabi got hoops from Lampe twice, Limonad, and Pnini. Derrick Allen finished the game strong scoring six points and Calhoun showed some power under the hoop out muscling Lampe and tipping a ball into the hoop. Maccabi Tel Aviv was two classes too strong for The Deutsche Bank Skyliners winning 95-69. 'We stopped being aggressive in the second half. We played no defense, gave up too many lob passes and missed our shots. They took advantage of it', commented Derrick Allen. For Maccabi, this was just another exhibition game in preparation for the upcoming season. 'We havent been together so long yet, so this game was a good chance to practice things. We usually play man to man, but tonight we played a combination man/zone and were able to work on many things', said Andrew Wisniewskii

Maccabi Tel Aviv was led by Alan Anderson (198-G/F-82, college: Michigan St.) with 25 points. Maciej Lampe (210-C-85, agency: Edge Sports) added 18 points. Guy Pnini scored 13 points and Raviv Limonad chipped in with 10 points. The Deutsche Bank Skyliners were led by Derrick Allen with 23 points, six rebounds and two assists. Seth Doliboa added 11 points and seven rebounds. Qarran Calhoun chipped in with 11 points and keeps showing his outstanding leaping abilities and shot blocking talent. 'One of my main goals is too help on defense. I learned as a kid that it is important to block shots and I keep doing it', stressed Calhoun. Maciej Lampe (210-C-85, agency: Edge Sports) didnt know his name until he was told, but was impressed by Calhoun. 'I liked Calhoun. He was very explosive. He could become a good player', said Lampe. Frankfurt finished the game shooting 41% from the field and only 19% from outside while Maccabi Tel Aviv finished at 59% from the field and 37% form outside. Frankfurt won the rebounding battle 35-33, but Tel Aviv won the turnover game 14-18.

The goals of Maccabi Tel Aviv and The Deutsche Bank Skyliners is like night and day. Frankfurt wants to reach the playoffs while Tel Aviv has to win the league title and wants to win the biggest title of all in European basketball. 'Winning the Euroleague is our main goal this season. We have to get Maccabi back to their winning ways. We have a good group of guys who can do it', warned Maciej Lampe (210-C-85, agency: Edge Sports). Maccabi has a strong 12 man roster that will be depended on as much support as possible through a long season of two games a week. Andrew Wisniewskii has a new challenge this season to see if he can feel comfortable of not scoring in double figures each game? 'I enjoy this new situation with Maccabi Tel Aviv. I was always a scorer in my career where I had to score 15-20 points a game. If I have a game here where my shot isnt falling, I know we can still win. Because we have so many guns', added Andrew Wisniewskii It was an entertaining evening for the fans in the BCM and The Deutsche Bank Skyliners got some valuable experience from a top European team. Frankfurt has one last test game on Sunday October 4th in Strassburg before the season starts on October 9th in Trier. Even though Wisniewski has been absent from the BBL for five seasons, he has a good feeling about the make up of the 2009-2010 Deutsche Bank Skyliners. 'Frankfurt is a good team. They may be a little undersized, but they will make the playoffs. It helps them when you have a guy like Derrick Allen around who is always hard working and has a smile on his face. I really respect him as a player', added Andrew Wisniewskii

Giants Noerdlingen land Casey Archibald - by Moritz Korff
The Giants Noerdlingen (2. Bundesliga Pro A) have signed a new player to replace Michael Turner (196-G/F-87, college: Hartford) who had been waived in pre-season. Casey Archibald (195-G-84, agency: R.H.Consultancy, college: University of British Columbia) will shoot hoops for the Giants in the 2009-2010 season. The 25-year-old Canadian from Salmon Arm, British Columbia spent the past two years playing for Kraftwerk Wels of Austria. During 2008-2009 he saw action in 24 games of the Austrian A-Bundesliga and averaged 13.0 points, 4.2 rebounds, 2.3 assists per contest. Before he turned pro in 2007, Archibald attended the University of British Columbia and was named to the CIS All-Canada First Team in 2006.

Doron Perkins: From The EWE Baskets Oldenburg To Maccabi Tel Aviv In Only Three Years - by Miles Schmidt-Scheuber
Doron Perkins (188-G-83, college: Santa Clara) is a 26 year old 188 cm guard from Anchorage, Alaska. He played college ball at Santa Clara with ENBW Ludwigsburg point guard Kyle Bailey and in his senior year in 2004-2005, played 31 games averaging 15.4ppg, 6.0rpg, 3.4apg, FGP: 40.1%, 3PT: 31.3%, FT: 64.4%. He set a WCC and school record with 10 steals against San Diego as a senior. He finished his career ranked seventh in SCUs career steals listings with 137. He started his professional basketball career in Japan for Toyota Alvark winning the league title in 2006. In 2006, he went to Germany and played for the EWE Baskets Oldenburg playing 25 games and averaging 12.0ppg, 3.8rpg, 4.1apg, Steals-2 (2.2spg), 2FGP: 46.2%, 3FGP: 30.0%, FT: 68.9%. This is where he played together with D or Fischer for the first time. The next season, he went to Belgium and played for Bree playing 35 games and averaging 15.6ppg, 5.2rpg, Assists-1 (5.8apg), Steals-1 (3.1spg), 2FGP: 56.0%, 3PT: 28.0%, FT: 65.0% Here he was also a teammate of D or Fischer. Last season, he played in Israel for Maccabi Haifa Heat playing 24 games averaging 17.0ppg, 6.3rpg, Assists-3 (5.3apg), Steals-1 (3.0spg), FGP: 50.3%, 3PT: 31.0%, FT: 75.8% without D or Fischer. This season he is reunited again with D or Fischerwith Maccabi Tel Aviv. Doron spoke to eurobasket before the test game against The Deutsche Bank Skyliners.

Doron welcome back to Germany. How does it feel to be back? What did you miss most from Germany?


It is nice to be back! It was cool playing in the BBL. The people were nice. I miss The EWE Baskets Oldenburg. I liked my team and playing with D or Fischer the first time.

You played for Oldenburg some years ago. They got really good after you left. Do you miss having left just as they started getting better?


No, not really. I am glad that they have gotten successful. It would have been good if we had been successful when I was there. I think it has worked out for both sides. My career went up since I left and they became successful. It would be nice if I could play against them in Euroleague.


How would you compare the Belgium and Israel leagues with the BBL?


I think that there was more of a following in the BBL then in Belgium and the crowds were bigger in Germany. The rules are a bit different in Israel that we can only have three Americans on the court.

Maccabi Tel Aviv has four ex BBL players. How much does that speak for the BBL for being able to shape players?

I think for guys coming out of college, the BBL is a great stepping stone. It is great for Americans to come to Germany and experience a league like the BBL. Players have a chance to work their way up and get their feet wet for the first time.

Do you know any of the Deutsche Bank Skyliners?


I personally dont know any of the players. It was fun playing against them.

You continued pouring on the stats in Bree, Belgium. You played together with D or Fischer who had double double stats in 2007-2008 with 14ppg and 10rpg. Did you think two years ago that Fischer had the talent to land at a top club like Maccabi one day?



Yes most definitely. It was just a matter of time. I think the NBA could still be an option for him if he wanted to. If he has another good year of Euroleague, then I thin he could of plenty of opportunities to go that route.

You are a scoring point guard, but have been a top the assist leaders the last years as well. If a game is on the line, do you take the shot to win the game or make the game winning assist?

That is a tough question, I dont really know. If I am open then I would shoot, if not then I would pass it to the open man.

What was your most spectacular pass in your career?






It was when I played for Oldenburg. We were on a fast break and I threw the ball of the back board and the guy behind me dunked it. This was not planned. I saw him behind me coming so I did it. We were up by 6-7 points in the first half. I probably would not have done it in the second half of a close game.

How big is the difference coming from Maccabi Haifa to 47 time Israel champion Maccabi Tel Aviv?




Playing for Maccabi, it is a whole different level to Maccabi Haifa. I have been successful, but now this is another step that is also difficult where you are expected to perform each game. I think being expected to perform makes you play better. I feel no pressure.

You are from Anchourage, Alaska. And are are now living in avery warm place for the second year. Do you miss the snow?


No I dont miss the snow. I hate the snow actually. I was always in the snow as a kid, but now stay away. I do have to see the snow when I go back and visit family for Christmas. I do enjoy the warm weather now.

How does a regular day in Tel Aviv look like for Doron Perkins (188-G-83, college: Santa Clara)?



Well we have been practicing so much in preseason so I havent seen too much. There is always nice weather and a place where you simply have to feel comfortable. The beach is only five minutes form where I live. It is easy living there, because it is similar to being in the States.

You played together with ENBW Ludwigsburg point guard Kyle Bailey at Santa Clara. What do you remember most about him?



Kyle was a great leader. He is one of the best ball handling/foot work point guard that I ever saw. He was the reason why I went to Santa Clara. We like to work out together in California during the off season. We keep in touch during the season and I hope he does well with Ludwigsburg and I will keep up how he is doing.

Who is the best player that you ever played against?




The best player that I ever played against was in college with Danny Granger. I had to guard him. He had like 6 inches on me and it was difficult to guard him. He outplayed me well. I played ok though. He had better stats. They won the agme and that is probably why I remember this game.

You are still young at 26 and playing for one of the best teams in Europe. Is the NBA still in your mind?


The NBA is always in my thoughts. But getting to the NBA with all the politics is difficult. Now I am just focusing on my situation with Maccabi tel Aviv. If the NBA is an option then good if not then I can live with that too.

What was the last DVD that you saw?

I havent seen too many DVDs recently. Over the summer, I saw Takin which was a good movie. It was an interesting movie with the scary facts happening. It was cool that the father got the daughter back.
Thanks Doron for interview. Good luck with Maccabi Tel Aviv this season!


Willis Gardner Has Tryout With Deutsche Bank Skyliners PRO B team - by Miles Schmidt-Scheuber
With the PRO B season under way, management of the Deutsche Bank Skyliners PRO B team has decided to possibly stock up at the guard position by bringing in American Willis Gardner (185-G-86)r for a try out until the end of October. Gardner is a 23 year old 185 cm guard. He comes from Norristown, Pennslyvania where he visited the local high school averaging 17 points and nine assists. After playing at Ohlone CC, he went to Colorodo State from 2007-2009. In 2007-2008, he played 30 games averaging 9.8ppg, 3.2rpg, 2.9apg, FGP: 44.8%, 3Pts: 38.5%, FT: 89.6%. Last season, he played 27 games averaging 9.6ppg, 2.5rpg, 2.1apg, FGP: 44.2%, 3Pts: 28.1%, FT: 76.9%
Source: www.deutschebankskyliners.de

Wolfenbuettel: Cun injured - Morinia to replace him - by Moritz Korff
Lamar Morinia (183-G-81, college: Montana St.-Northern) will suit up for 2. Bundesliga Pro B outfit Herzoege Wolfenbuettel in the upcoming three months. The 28-year-old guard inked a contract for this period of time to replace Song Cun (172-G-82, college: Occidental) who suffered a shoulder-injury recently and who has to undergo surgery.
Morinia played 24 games in the Regionalliga South-East for USC Leipzig last season and averaged 22.0 points per contest. The year before he led the Ballers Osnabrueck to the championship in the Regionalliga North with 22.6 ppg (21 games) and was named the 2007-08 Eurobasket.com All-Regionalliga North Player of the Year.

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  GHANA   


The Fadama vikings sign Ekpe Rock Paul - by Eurobasket
The Vikings basketball Academy are part of the JcomentsBasketball Academy , a non-profit 501 (c) (3) organization dedicated to helping Fadamas youth succeed on the basketball court and in the class room. The Academy was established in 2008 and remains dedicated to improving the lives of Fadama Zongo's youth through the game of basketball.
The Organization focuses on getting our players exposure to the colleges that will fit their academic and athletic needs. Our extensive travel schedules and unmatched recruiting program gives players an opportunity to realize their dreams of playing college basketball. We work relentlessly for our players to get them placed at the best possible college that will fit their needs.
Your support translates to overall support for the community and support for the development of future citizens of Ghana & Africa. It is from programs such as the Vikings Basketball Academy, which fosters and teaches self-discipline and healthy competition, that we endeavor to build strong character in our student athletes.
If you are interested in supporting our goals, through sponsorship or donations, please make your contribution to the Vikings Basketball Academy. We will provide you a receipt with tax ID number enclosed, or you can contact us for the number for your records beforehand. You can also take a look at the web site www.eteamz.com/fadamavikings
We will be playing the league Games from next season. I will be sending you news on Ghana Basketball from time to time am ready to work with you sir,
by F Vikings Basketball Academy News

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  GREECE   


Panellinios loses and wins in Turkey - by Eurobasket News
Panellinios opened one of the top International Pre-season tournaments in Europe before the start of the Regular Season. Besiktas, Kizilyildiz, Banvit, Panellinios, Union Olimpija, Galatasaray and Efes Pilsen are all ready to battle for the trophy. The teams were divided into two groups with four and three teams respectfully. The hosts of the tournament Banvit beat Greek Panellinios 85:77 in Day 1. The latter was too good from the start and grabbed 30-15 lead after the first 10 minutes. Banvit responded with 23-16 in the second quarter to reduce the gap at the halftime. The hosts brought 18-17 in the third period and had a fabulous last stanza. The Turkish side produced 29-14 in the last 10 minutes to celebrate the victory. Lance Williams (206-C-80, college: De Paul) paced all the winners with 23 points and Charles Davis posted 21. Keith Simmons ended up with 9 points and Baris Ermis notched 8. Ian Vougioukas and Kostas Charalampidis delivered 12 points for the Greek side. Roderick Blakney (181-G-76, college: S.Carolina St.) nailed 11, while Duro Ostojic added 8.
In Day 2 Panellinios outscored Kizilyildiz 78:67 to tie their record at 1-1. The Greek side had a great start and enjoyed 23-8 at the end of the first period. They also won the second period 22-20 to take 17-point advantage at the halftime. Kizilyildiz reduced the gap after 23-17 in the third period, but could not catch up with the opponent. Devin Smith (196-G/F-81, college: Virginia) led the way with 23 points and Kostas Charalampidis posted 17. Elmedin Kikanovic poured in 19 points in the losing case.


Los Angeles Lakers sign Thomas Kelati - by Eurobasket News
The Los Angeles Lakers have signed free agent guard Thomas Kelati (195-G/F-82, college: Washington St.) .The deal was announced yesterday.
The 27-year old Thomas Kelati is coming to NBA from Spanish team Unicaja Malaga. Actually, during the summer he supposed to join Greek team Olympiacos Pireus, but at the end that transfer failed. Kelati appeared 16 times in Euroleague last season averaging 11.8 ppg, 1.9 rpg and 1.3 apg. In Spanish ACB league he had 10.3 ppg, 1.7 rpg and 1.5 spg for 37 games. Unicaja Malaga reached ACB Semifinals.
From 2006 to 2008 Thomas Kelati was a player of Polish team BOT Turow Zgorzelec. With them, Kelati reached ULEB Cup Quarterfinals in 2008 and played twice in domestic championship Playoff Finals. Second season with the team Kelati ended with 14.8 ppg and 3.2 rpg for 15 ULEB Cup games. In Polish league he had 15.2 ppg and 3 rpg. In 2007, he was named 'Eurobasket.com All-Polish League Player of the Year -07'.
Before Unicaja and Turow, Thomas Kelati played one year for Belgian team Dexia Mons-Hainaut averaging 4.1 ppg and 1.5 rpg for 33 games. That was his first season in Europe, after he graduated at Washington State University. In senior year with Washington, Kelati had 14.3 ppg and 4.3 rpg.

Hemofarm - PAOK: 81-62 - by George Manousidis
PAOK defeat 81-62 by Hemofarm, in the first day of international tournament 'Big ones for the small ones', which takes place in Vrsac. The two teams are even in the first half (which ended with a tie ... 43-43), but throughout the match was intense of the referees. Four fouls and a technical penalty caused many complaints to members of the team of PAOK.
However Hemofarm, seemed more ready and that is reasonable because begin racing commitments for the championship and playing better in the second half got the victory and the qualification to the final of the tournament.

Quarters: 26-16, 43-43, 64-54, 81-62

HEMOFARM: Pavkovic 3, Despotovic, Boovic 7 (1), Stivenson 9 (2), utalo 2, Krstovic 16 (2), Vulic, Markovic 13 (2), Obrenovic, Petrovic, Borisov 4, Marjanovic 9, Katic 15, Macvan 3 (1).

PAOK: Monroe 14 (1), Kafkis 4, Demertzis, Gregory 13, Predrag Drobnjak (212-F/C-75) 15 (1), Giannakidis, Kalaitzidis 2, Tsiaras 2, Kalles, Avery 4, Helliwell, Gecevski 8.

Saturday, PAOK will face in the small final of Vrsac tournament the Cedevida Zagreb (6.15m.m), which defeated today by the Radnicki to 66-68.


PAOK hands 85-73 loss to Novi Sad in a friendly - by Eurobasket News
Novi Sad - PAOK Thessaloniki 73-85

PAOK Thessaloniki cruised past Novi Sad in a pre-season game. The Serbian team was a host, but didn't succeed to avoid defeat. PAOK players were simply strong enough, registering another win in friendly games. Predrag Drobnjak (212-F/C-75) was the leading scorer in victory with 22 points. Kenny Gregory (197-G/F-78, college: Kansas) drained 21, while Giorgos Tsiaras (207-C/F-82) delivered 17. Chris Monroe (191-G-81, college: George Washington) was fourth scorer of the team with 14 points. In the loosing squad, Dusko Bunic (205-C-89) and Branislav Jancikin (198-G-86) posted 15 points each. Rakic and Maksim Kovacevic (199-G/F-87) contributed with 12 pts apiece. Novi Sad was slightly better team at the beginning. Neither of two squads was able to make a serious run, but still it was Novi Sad who held 22-19 lead. PAOK players woke up in the following ten minutes, intensifying defense and stopping the hosts on just 9 more point until the half time. On the other side, Predrag Drobnjak and his teammates delivered 21 points for 31-40 lead at the half time. PAOK never looked back after that. Second half was totally leveled, but it seems it was something what the Greek squad wanted. At the end it was totally deserved 73-85 win for the guests, who are preparing for domestic championship, which tips off on October 24.

Novi Sad: Dusko Bunic 15, Branislav Jancikin 15, Rakic 12, Maksim Kovacevic 12
PAOK Thessaloniki: Predrag Drobnjak 22, Kenny Gregory 21, Giorgos Tsiaras 17, Chris Monroe 14

Milosevic on a tryout with Panionios - by Interperformances
7'0' Montenegrian center Stevan Milosevic (211-C-85, agency: Interperformances) gained a tryout with the Panionios ON Telecoms Athens team in the Greek A1. Stevan grew up with Mornar Bar, then he moved to Buducnost Podgorica, the leading club of Serbia & Montenegro, where he became one of the most important players of the team. In 2007 he won the Montenegrin League, then moved to Arkadia Traiskirchen Lions in the Austrian first league. Stevan started last season in Serbia with Crvena Zvezda Beograd, then moved to Koeln 99ers in the German Bundesliga, where he averaged 9.2ppg, grabbing 4.9 rebounds.

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  GUATEMALA   


Last LPB results - by Gianni Pascucci
Some days before the showdown vs. Elite Sport, D-Team defeated Compusys, 104-98, with Dangelo Vaughn (192-F-80) leading the way at 29 points, Heber Rodriguez (185-G-82) adding 27 and Joaquin Ortiz (192-F-90) 26. At the Compusys side shined Cesar Catalan (180-G-75), who scored 20 points, Roberto Vallecillo (190-F-67) and Jorge Castaneda (189-F-82) with 16 points each. Two days after, Le Mans prevailed over La Preparatoria, 86-74. Forward Adrian Lemcke (191-F-77) was the man of the game, with 24 points, Andres Barrios (190-G/F-81) added 19 and Alejandro Pastorio (183-G-77) scored 10 points and dished lots of assists in Le Mans, while Ricardo Amaya (191-G-84) was the nest at the losing side with 18 points, Andres Castellanos (185-G-87) added 14 and Luis Hernandez 13.


Standings
LPB Standings
 1. D-Team 9-1 
 2. Elite Sport 8-2 
 3. Le Mans 5-6 
 4. Compusys 4-7 
 5. Preparatoria 0-10 


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  ICELAND   


Sigurdur Ingimundarson quits as head coach of Solna Vikings - by Einar Johannsson
Sigurour Ingimundarson who signed contract as coach of Solna Vikings in Sweden has quit his job at Solna. These news come as a suprise as he has only been with the club for a month or so. The reason for Ingimundarson quitting is that him and club did not want to go the same way in building up the team.

Solna had won the first game of the season but then lost in 2nd round at home. Those resaults have nothingt to do with his decision to quit at this time.
Ingimundarson said in interview with visir.is in Iceland that he will now go home and see what options are available for him as he wants to keep on going over seas if he finds the right job.


KR sign Semaj Inge - by Einar Johannsson
KR Reykjavik, champions in Iceland, have signed Semaj Inge (193-G, college: Temple) for point guard role this upcoming season. The club has gone through alot of changes and signing of Inge is most likely the closing on their roster for the season.
KR Reykjavik lost Jon Stefansson (196-G-82) to Spain and Jakob Sigurdarson (192-G-82, college: Birmingham Souther) & Helgi Magnusson (198-G/F-82, college: Catawba) both signed in Sweden. Instead the club has signed Finnur Magnusson (206-C, college: Catawba) and Jon O. Kristjansson (200-C-83) inside, and Tommy Johnson (196-G/F-81, agency: Pro Partner Sports Management, college: Texas Wesleyan) is also there, doing a good job in preseason.
The 23 year old Inge gratuated from Temple last summer. His first game of the season should be away against FSu on the 15th of october.

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  ITALY   


Angelico Biella testing Roberto Gabini - by Interperformances
The 6'6' Small Forward Roberto Gabini (198-F-75, agency: Interperformances) is starting today a tryout with the Italian Serie A team Angelico Biella. Biella is trying to see if Roberto successfully recovered from the big injury he suffered during the last season. Roberto has both Italian and Argentinian passport. In the 2003/2004 Basket Rimini Crabs the Italian LegaDue team first signed this talented player in Europe believing in his talents. That season was named the best Bosman Player of the entire Italian Legadue league and the following season he signed for Tau Victoria one of the top clubs in Europe. Gabini stayed in Spain until the second half of the 2006/07 season. Spent the last three years in Lottomatica Virtus Roma. Last season in the Italian Serie A League Roberto averaged 6.2ppg, 2.9rpg, 1.2spg, FGP: 48.8%, 3PT: 43.8%, FT: 80.0% while in the Euroleague in 14 games registered: 5.9ppg, 2.4rpg, 1.1spg, FGP: 60.0%, 3PT: 41.5%, FT: 77.8%.

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  LIBERIA   


LBF Gives several awards today - by Numennie Williams
Institutions and personalities and teams and players will today be honored by the Liberia Basketball Federation.

The LBF will today have two league seasons closing program at the open Airs Sports Commission.

The 2008 and now 2009 league seasons will official be closed today following the arrival into the country of over USD$6,000 worth trophies that will be awarded to teams and personalities for their outstanding performances during the period under review.

The discipline for individual awards rangers from higher scorers, higher three pointers, and most valuable players amongst others.

Champions teams in the LBF run four separate leagues including the 1st division,2nd, 3rd and female divisions will also receive trophies.

For the higher scorere,Daysley R.Zulu of Mighty Barrolles claimed the glory after scoring 260 points for his team during the 2009 league season.

In the 2nd divsison,Ziamah Y.Kollie scored 200 points for his team Wiloria Patriots while Henry Nyenken managed 196 points and emerged as the higher scorer in the 3rd division.
In the female category, Mona Kimber scored the highest scoring a total of 415 points for Phoenix.

For the higher three pointers four players will also receive awards.

Raphael Quaye of NPA scored 102 points while the Ziamah Y.Kollie secured a total of 57 points for Wiloria Pointer.

In the 3rd divsison Wemie Menovah scored 45 points for Heats and has been chosen as the higher three pointer in the 3rd divsison.

In the female category Ami Weah will be honored as the best in that category after scoring 54 points.

In the most valuable players categories, four players were also selected.
For the first division, Samuel Davidson of NPA emerged as the winner in the first division while, Ziamah Y. Kollie captured the 2nd division category awards.

The 3rd division MVP is being captured by Henry D.Nyenken of Harbel Pointers and the female MVP is Esi Jallah of K.Deltas.

The Liberia Basketball Federation will however honored NPA as the first division champions and Wiloria Patriots will receive the 2nd division championship trophy.Harbel Pointers is the 3rd division champions.


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


Grafs, Zukauskas to Siauliai, Kingsley on the leave - by Simas Baranauskas
LKL bronze medalists Siauliai have announced the signing of Raitis Grafs (208-C-81, college: Valparaiso) and Mindaugas Zukauskas (202-F-75, agency: World Sport Agency). Grafs will replace the American bigman Matt Kingsley (206-F-86, college: Stephen F. Austin), who did not fit in with the team and Zukauskas will stay in the club as long as he doesn't find a suitable offer elsewhere. Both players are set to make their debut on Saturday in a Lithuanian showdown of the Baltic League against Nevezis. Both teams have lost their openers - Siauliai against Zalgiris, Nevezis against Lietuvos Rytas.

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


LNBP Transactions - by Eurobasket
Halcones UV Cordoba added to their roster 35-year old naturalized American David Crouse (211-F/C-74, college: USC). It's a very big gamble as the player had ...4 year break in playing pro basketball. Crouse is a very well-known player in LNBP as he spent few seasons with Lobos de la UAC. After graduating USC in the NCAA, he played also pro basketball in China, Japan, Belgium, Poland, Bosnia, Kosovo and Hungary. Crouse was selected Eurobasket.com All-Bosnia and Herzegovina League Import Player of the Year in 2003 and 2004.
Bahamanian guard Jermaine Henfield (193-G-85, college: Tarleton St.) is a newcomer at Pilares del Distrito Federal. He will replace Jamaican Kali McCarthy (196-G-80, college: Dickinson St.), who was released.
Potros ITSON added to the roster local guard Elvis Medina, ex Tecos de la UAGuadalajara.
Indios de la UAC-Juarez decided to sign two very experienced Americans: shooting forward Silas Mills (200-F-72, college: Utah St.) and power forward Arthur Long (206-F/C-73, college: Cincinnati). Mills who was tested before the season by Lechugueros. It's his 13th (hopefully lucky) country where he plays pro basketball. He has already played in the U.S., Estonia, Philippines, Turkey, Italy, Greece, Israel, China, Spain, Ukraine, Argentina, France. Long has also very impressive career as he has played in ...20 leagues. LNBP will he his 21st one. Indios also agreed terms with local point guard Jose Luis Bucio (179-G-86), previously at Doraditos de la UACh (LiMeBa). Both Mills and Long will replace their countrymen Toraino Johnson (194-F/G-80, college: Utah St.) and James Collins (188-G-84, college: Birmingham Souther), while Bucio will be a good replacement for another American Michael Thompson (178-G-89, college: Northwestern).
Cosmos de Tijuana wanted to get new players at forward position. The first choice were Americans Ryan Edwards (196-F-83, college: Missouri Baptist) and Gerald Burris (198-F-78, college: W.Alabama). Edward played last season in Argentina and Syria. It will be his first time in Mexico. Burris came from Libertadores, where he played last few games. The local addition at forward position is Mike Gavaldon (197-F-80, college: Cal.St.-Los Angeles), who has already 3-year experience in LNBP. They will replace American Matt Neaville and USA-BAH Malcom Edric (198-G/F-80, college: W.New Mexico).
Halcones Rojos de Veracruz aimed to bring a big guy signing Puerto Rican center Ricky Sanchez (212-C/F-87), previously at Cangrejeros in Puerto Rican BSN. He will be 4th Puerto Rican player in the roster.

Standings - LNBP
LNBP Standings
 1. Halc.Xalapa 7-0 
 2. Halc.Rojos 6-1 
 3. Soles 6-1 
 4. Pioneros 5-1 
 5. Halc.Cordoba 5-2 
 6. Angeles 5-2 
 7. Huracanes 4-3 
 8. Abejas 3-3 
 9. Bucaneros 3-3 
 10. Lechugueros 3-3 
 11. Libertadores 3-4 
 12. Panteras 3-4 
 13. Barreteros 3-4 
 14. Lobos Grises 3-4 
 15. Toros 2-4 
 16. Fuerza Regia 2-4 
 17. Potros 2-5 
 18. Indios 1-4 
 19. Cosmos 0-7 
 20. Pilares 0-7 


Stats Leaders - LNBP
Points Per Game
 John MILLSAP
  Bucaneros
  (198-F-82)
  Avg: 31
 1. Millsap, Bucaneros31.0 
 2. Millsap, Bucaneros31.0 
 3. Millsap, Bucaneros31.0 
 4. Millsap, Bucaneros28.4 
 5. Hickerson, Pioneros25.2 
 6. Gooner, Halc.Rojos22.8 
 7. Gooner, Halc.Rojos22.8 
 8. Capers, Barreteros22.2 
 9. Gooner, Halc.Rojos22.2 
 10. Capers, Barreter.22.2 
Rebounds Per Game
 Antonio GARCIA
  Pioneros
  (203-F/C-76)
  Avg: 12.2
 1. Garcia, Pioneros12.2 
 2. Garcia, Pioneros11.0 
 3. Garcia, Pioneros11.0 
 4. Garcia, Pioneros11.0 
 5. Reaves, Barreteros11.0 
 6. Reaves, Barreteros10.7 
 7. Reaves, Barreteros10.7 
 8. Reaves, Barreteros10.7 
 9. Reaves, Barreteros10.2 
 10. Reaves, Barreter.10.2 
Assists Per Game
 Eddin Orlando SANTIAGO
  Panteras
  (186-G-75)
  Avg: 7.3
 1. Santiago, Panteras7.3 
 2. Santiago, Panteras7.3 
 3. Santiago, Panteras7.3 
 4. Santiago, Panteras7.3 
 5. Funn, Bucaneros7.0 
 6. Brown, Fuerza R.6.3 
 7. Brown, Fuerza R.6.3 
 8. Brown, Fuerza R.6.3 
 9. Brown, Fuerza R.6.2 
 10. Brown, Fuerza.6.2 
Steals Per Game
 Manuel GONZALEZ
  Libertadores
  (180-G-92)
  Avg: 4.2
 1. Gonzalez, Libertad.4.2 
 2. Gonzalez, Libertad.4.2 
 3. Gonzalez, Libertad.4.2 
 4. Gonzalez, Libertad.3.8 
 5. Gonzalez, Libertad.3.8 
 6. Gonzalez, Libertad.3.8 
 7. Gonzalez, Libertad.3.8 
 8. Gonzalez, Libertad.3.8 
 9. Gonzalez, Libertad.3.8 
 10. Gooner, Halc.Roj.3.6 
Blocks Per Game
 Kenya CAPERS
  Barreteros
  (194-F-73)
  Avg: 1.7
 1. Capers, Barreteros1.7 
 2. Capers, Barreteros1.7 
 3. Capers, Barreteros1.7 
 4. Capers, Barreteros1.7 
 5. Brown, Potros1.7 
 6. Capers, Barreteros1.7 
 7. Brown, Potros1.7 
 8. Capers, Barreteros1.5 
 9. Capers, Barreteros1.5 
 10. Capers, Barreter.1.4 


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


Montenegrin basketball transfers and news - by Dragan Scepanovic
Basketball Club Teodo from Tivat : Basketball club Teodo from Tivat announced that club singed 1-year contract whit Ivica Vukotic (183-G-77, agency: Global Sports Plaza) and Stefan Djordjevic (206-C-89 ) (ex basketball player of Basketball Club Ulcinj)
Basketball Club Primroje from Herceg Novi : Basketball Club Primorje from Herceg Novi announced that club singed 1-year contract whit Marko Calic (197-F-86) and Igor Lutersek (203-C-89) ( ex basketball players of Basketball Club Lovcen from Cetinje), Vasilije Seferovic (193-G/F-85) (ex basketball player of Basketball Club ABS Primorje), Hocevar and Rajko Krivokapic (199-F-85) (ex basketball players of Basketball Club Teodo from Tivat).In same way club renew contract whit Stefan Arapovic, Nedjeljko Kovacevic, Papovic.Management of Basketball Club announced that new head coach will be Marinko Kovacevic.
Basketball Club ABS Primroje from Herceg Novi : Basketball Club ABS Primorje from Herceg Novi announced that club singed 1-year contract whit Nikola Djokovic (190-G-89) (ex basketball player of Basketball Club Ibon from Niksic ), Milan Dabovic ( ex basketball player of Basketball Club Teodo from Tivat ) and Ivan Zejak ( ex basketball player of Basketball Club University of Mediteran from Podgorica). ).In same way management of Basketball Club announced that old/new head coach of club will be Jeftic.
Basketball Club IBon from Niksic : Basketball agony after many basketball players go form basketball Club Ibon form Niksic is not stop , more seven basketball player singed new contract whit other basketball clubs , Nikola Djokovic inks for Basketball Club ABS Primorje from Herceg Novi member of MNT1A League, Bojan Dubljevic (205-C-91) is very close to singed 4- year contract whit Basketball Club Buducnost Podgorica, Nemanja Vranjes (188-G/F-88) inks for Basketball Club Hercegovac from Bileca , Jakov Samardzic will in next season play for Basketball Club Mladost from Zemun, Zarko Krivokapic (184-G-91) inks 1-year contract whit Basketball Club Sutjeska from Niksic and contract whit club brake out Boban Medenica (201-F-87 ) and Aleksandar Deretic (199-F/C-90).
Basketball Club Sutjeska from Niksic : Management of new basketball club in Montenegrin 1B basketball league announced that club singed 1 year contract whit Zeljko Jovanovic (200-G/F-83) born 1983 ex basketball player of many Montenegrin basketball clubs and Zarko Krivokapic (ex basketball player of Basketball Club Ibon from Niksic).In same way management of Basketball Club Sutjeska announced that new head coach of club will be Rade Petrovic ex head coach of ABS Primroje from Herceg Novi.



FMP outsmarts Buducnost in pre-season meeting - by Eurobasket News
FMP - Buducnost 83-77

FMP managed to peg Buducnost for the loss they suffered last week, also in a friendly match. This time Serbian outfit recorded 83-77 victory in a match where they dominated on defensive end. Also, FMP had full squad at its disposal, after Miroslav Raduljica (213-C-88) was in the line-up. It was a closely fought contest in the first quarter. Lead exchanged from basket to basket, but in the end it was FMP with 19-18 after 10 minutes of play. We saw more of the same in the second quarter, as teams continued to exchange baskets. Vladimir Dragicevic (206-C/F-86) for Buducnost and Miroslav Raduljica for FMP were particularity active during this period as both teams based offense on their posts. Buducnost managed to take the lead in the closing minutes of the half and grabbed 39-41 lead to the halftime break. In the second half, FMP opened the quarter with the run to regain the plus. They continued to pressure Buducnost players which enabled them points in transition. With 10 minutes left, FMP held 60-56. They went on another run to increase their lead and Buducnost could not come back. All they did until the end of the game was to cut the deficit for the final score of 83-77.
Nemanja Protic (182-G-86) (182-G-86) and Miroslav Raduljica led the way for the winning side with 15 and 14 points respectively. Mladen Jeremic (196-G-88) and Predrag Samardziski (214-C-86, agency: Interperformances) followed close behind, adding 13 points each. Vladimir Dragicevic was excellent for Buducnost finishing the contest with 22 points. Marko Simonovic (202-F-86, agency: Beo Basket) and Cedomir Vitkovac (201-F-82, agency: Beo Basket) also scored in double figures for Buducnost, finishing with 11 points apiece.

FMP: Nemanja Protic 15, Miroslav Raduljica 14, Mladen Jeremic 13, Predrag Samardziski 13
Buducnost: Vladimir Dragicevic 22, Marko Simonovic 11, Cedomir Vitkovac 11

Buducnost inks Marko Lekic - by Eurobasket News
According to reports from Montenegrin media, Buducnost has agreed a deal with Serbian center Marko Lekic (211-C-85).
Lekic had a fairly successful season in Slovenia playing for Geoplin Slovan and it seems that his good games have attracted the interest from Buducnost Management. Lekic is the forth signing for the new season, after the club has already brought in Vitkovac, Jeretin and Savovic. By signing 210cm tall Lekic, Buducnost has solved position 5 for the next season. It is expected that Lekic will join the team in the coming days.
Marko Lekic started his career with Partizan Belgrade junior team. He made his debut during 2002-2003 season, when he appeared in 6 League games and averaging 4 points and 1 rebound per game. That season, Lekic won the National Title with Partizan. He also played for the likes of Spartak Subotica and Atlas before signing with Vojvodina in 2006. After season and a half, Lekic moved to Crvena Zvezda in January 2008. At Red Star, Lekic appeared in 13 league games and has posted averages of 5.9 points and 2.5 rebounds. He also saw action in 4 ULEB Games where he averaged 2.3 points and 1.8 rebounds. Last season, Lekic played for Slovenian outfit Geoplin Slovan. He averaged 15.6 points and 5.8 rebounds in 27 games.

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


Chicago Bulls waive Hill, Bucks cut Hubbard and Tyndale - by Eurobasket News
The Chicago Bulls waived center Steven Hill (7'0''-C-85, college: Arkansas) yesterday. The 23-year old big guy signed with the Bulls on September 26. Last season he played for Tulsa 66ers appearing in seven D-League games with following numbers: 7.6 ppg, 5.9 rpg and 2.3 bpg. In 2008 he graduated at the University of Arkansas averaging 4.2 ppg and 2.9 rpg in senior season. His school was NCAA champion that year. In 2007, Hill was named 'All-SEC Defensive Player of the Year'. Chicago's preseason roster now stands at 16.
Milwaukee waived forward Marcus Hubbard (6'9''-C-83, agency: ZAG Advocates, college: Angelo St.) and guard Mark Tyndale (6'5''-G-86, agency: Buck Andre, college: Temple).
Marcus Hubbard played for the Dakota Wizards and Rio Grande Valley Vipers last season. With the Wizards he had 6.6 ppg in 14 games. Later he appeared 27 more times with the Vipers adding 9 ppg and 4.7 rpg.
Mark Tyndale started last season in Australian team Adelaide 36ers. In March he joined Iowa Energy averaging 11.3 ppg and 4.9 rpg for 16 games. In 2008 he graduated at Temple University collecting 15.9 ppg and 7.2 rpg. As a junior Tyndale had impressive 19.4 ppg and 6.7 rpg in 24 games.

Walker is out for 2 months - by Demar Thomas
Boston Celtics forward Bill Walker is expected to miss 6-8 weeks after surgery on his right knee.

Walker also had surgery on the knee last year.

Celtics coach Doc Rivers said Thursday that Walker has a torn meniscus and that he will have an operation on Friday.

Walker injured his knee in high school, then tore the left knee ACL six games into his freshman season at Kansas State in 2006-07.

He returned to average 16.1 points and 6.3 rebounds as a redshirt freshman in 2007-08 and decided to leave school. While taking part in a predraft workout in California in June 2008, Walker injured his right knee and was not selected until the No. 47 spot in the draft.

The Washington Wizards, who picked Walker, traded him that night to the Celtics for cash considerations.

Walker played 12 games for the Utah Flash of the NBDL last season, averaging 17.8 points and 4.2 rebounds.

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


Bowling Green signs Orr to extension - by Eurobasket News
Bowling Green State University has signed men's basketball coach Louis Orr to a two-year contract extension through the 2013-14 season.

Orr led Bowling Green to a 19-14 record and the Mid-American Conference regular season championship last season, his second with the school. He was named the MAC Coach of the Year as the Falcons also advanced to the National Invitation Tournament for the first time since 2002.

'It's a blessing to be a part of the Bowling Green family,' Orr said. 'It's good to know that people support what you are trying to do and want to see you be successful. Being a good steward of this tremendous opportunity I have been given to make a positive impact on the lives of our student-athletes is extremely important to me.'

Bowling Green went 13-17 in Orr's first year.

Prior to coaching the Falcons, Orr spent five seasons at Seton Hall (2001-06), compiling a record of 80-69. He was named the Big East Conference's Coach of the Year in 2003, becoming the first person in league history to receive league honors as a player and as a coach. Orr played college basketball at Syracuse before spending eight seasons in the NBA with Indiana and the New York Knicks.

He began his coaching career as an assistant under Pete Gillen at Xavier University in his hometown of Cincinnati, spending four years there (1991-94). He also served assistant-coaching stints at Providence College (1994-96) and Syracuse (1996-2000), helping those three teams to a combined four NCAA tourney appearances and four NIT trips.

Courtesy of www.wcpo.com


Penn State coach DeChellis gets three-year extension - by Eurobasket News
Penn State gave basketball coach Ed DeChellis a three-year contract extension, rewarding him after the Nittany Lions won the NIT title last season.
DeChellis is entering his seventh season in Happy Valley. The new deal announced Thursday keeps him under contract at his alma mater through the 2013-14 season.

DeChellis led the Nittany Lions to a school-record 27 wins last season, ending with the program's first national postseason tournament title. Penn State also set a school record with 17 home wins.

Athletic director Tim Curley said DeChellis has built a 'foundation for continued success.'

'We are very excited about the significant progress our men's basketball program has made under coach DeChellis,' Curley said in a statement.

University policy is not to disclose terms of agreements. Records released by the school this spring showed DeChellis made more than $642,000 in compensation last year from Penn State, which would include base salary plus any bonuses.

DeChellis is 84-103 since arriving in 2003-04, and last year was his first winning season at the school. DeChellis said he appreciated the commitment from school officials.

'We are proud of what we have accomplished thus far and are focused on more goals ahead,' DeChellis said.

Penn State hasn't made the NCAA tournament since 2001, when they upset North Carolina to advance to the regional semifinals.

The Nittany Lions return three starters from last year's squad, led by All-Big Ten point guard Talor Battle. Preseason practice starts in less than three weeks.

Courtesy of www.usatoday.com


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


Central Washington Announces Schedule - by Sanjey Noriega
From: wildcatsports.com

CWU MEN'S BASKETBALL ANNOUNCES 2009-10 SCHEDULE
Wildcats to Face UW, BYU in Exhibition Games; 10 Home Games Currently Scheduled

ELLENSBURG (Sept. 23) -- Exhibition games against perennial Division I powers Washington and BYU, plus 10 regular-season home games, highlight the 2009-10 Central Washington University men's basketball schedule, announced Wednesday by 15th-year head coach Greg Sparling .

The Wildcats will play exhibition games in Seattle on Nov. 4 and in Provo, Utah, on Nov. 10 against UW and BYU, respectively. The meeting with the Huskies will be their first basketball matchup since a 2002-03 exhibition at Bank of America Arena. Central will then play at BYU six days later, making the program's first-ever trip to the Marriott Center.

The regular season will open Nov. 19 with a non-conference home game against Portland Bible College. Central currently has just one other non-conference game scheduled at Nicholson Pavilion -- a Dec. 9 contest against Walla Walla University.

Four non-league tournaments on the road are also on the schedule, beginning with the Northwest Nazarene University Classic over Thanksgiving weekend, where CWU will play Dixie State (Nov. 27) and Colorado-Colorado Springs (Nov. 28). Two tournament trips to Seattle Pacific are also on the schedule, with the first visit taking place Dec. 4-5 and pitting the Wildcats against BYU-Hawaii (Dec. 4) and Carroll College (Dec. 5). The second tourney visit to Brougham Pavilion will come at the end of December, when Central takes on Colorado Christian (Dec. 29) and Academy of Art University (Dec. 30).

Also on the Wildcats' non-league slate in 2009-10 is the team's annual trip to the Great Western Shootout in Las Vegas, Nev., on Dec. 17-18. Central will take on Fort Lewis College (Colo.) and Washburn University (Kan.).

On the Great Northwest Athletic Conference schedule, Central will have its usual complement of eight home and eight away games. The Wildcats will debut GNAC play on Jan. 7 at home against Western Oregon and will play four of their first five conference contests at Nicholson Pavilion. CWU also wraps up its 2009-10 regular season with back-to-back home games against Montana State Billings (Mar. 4) and Saint Martin's (Mar. 6).

The Wildcats, which finished 18-7 last season and was second in the GNAC with a 12-4 conference record, are looking to make their third consecutive NCAA Division II tournament appearance. Central will have a host of newcomers on their roster this season after losing six of their top seven scorers from last year to graduation.

2009-10 CENTRAL WASHINGTON MEN'S BASKETBALL SCHEDULE
November: 4 at Washington (exhibition), 7 p.m.; 10 at Brigham Young (exhibition), 7:30 p.m. MST; 19 PORTLAND BIBLE, 7 p.m.; 27-28 at Northwest Nazarene University Classic, Nampa, Idaho (27 vs. Dixie State, 3 p.m. MST; 28 vs. Colorado-Colorado Springs, 3 p.m. MST).
December: 4-5 at SPU Tournament, Seattle (4 vs. Brigham Young-Hawaii, 5 p.m.; 5 vs. Carroll, 5 p.m.); 9 WALLA WALLA, 7 p.m.; 17-18 at Great Western Shootout, Las Vegas (17 vs. Fort Lewis, 5 p.m.; 18 vs. Washburn, 3 p.m.); 29-30 at Falcons Tournament, Seattle (29 vs. Colorado Christian, 5 p.m.; 30 vs. Academy of Art, 5 p.m.).
January: 7 WESTERN OREGON*, 7:30 p.m.; 9 at Northwest Nazarene*, 2 p.m. MST; 14 ALASKA*, 7 p.m.; 16 ALASKA ANCHORAGE*, 7:30 p.m.; 23 WESTERN WASHINGTON*, 7 p.m.; 28 at Montana State Billings*, 7:30 p.m. MST; 30 at Saint Martin's*, 7 p.m.
February: 4 SEATTLE PACIFIC*, 7:30 p.m.; 6 at Western Oregon*, 4:30 p.m.; 11 at Alaska*, 7:30 p.m. AKST; 13 at Alaska Anchorage*, 7:30 p.m. AKST; 20 NORTHWEST NAZARENE*, 7 p.m.; 25 at Seattle Pacific*, 7 p.m.; 27 at Western Washington*, 7 p.m.
March: 4 MONTANA STATE BILLINGS*, 7:30 p.m.; 6 SAINT MARTIN'S*, 7:30 p.m.; 12-16 at NCAA Division II West Regional; 24-27 at NCAA Division II Elite Eight, Springfield, Mass.

* Great Northwest Athletic Conference game ... All games to be broadcast on KXLE-AM 1240 and online through the CWU Alumni Association


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


Standings - BLNO
BLNO Standings
 1. Baerum 1-0 
 2. Gimle 1-0 
 3. Harstad 1-0 
 4. Asker 1-0 
 5. Ammerud 0-1 
 6. Ulriken 0-1 
 7. Tromso 0-1 
 8. Froya 0-1 


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


Rainmen finally sign long-sought centre - by Eurobasket News
The Halifax Rainmen have finally landed a big man.

The Rainmen announced the signing of 6-foot-11 former Minnesota Timberwolves draft choice Gordon Malone (6'10''-F/C-74, college: W.Virginia) yesterday and moved a step closer to finalizing their starting lineup for the 2010 Premier Basketball League season.

The 35-year-old was an NCAA Division I standout in 1996-97 at West Virginia and was picked 44th overall by the Timberwolves in 1997 but never played in the NBA.

The Rainmen have been searching for a legitimate starting centre for the better part of their two seasons.

He runs the floor extremely well, hes athletic, he can score with his back to the basket, he rebounds well and hes a good defender, said Rainmen owner Andre Levingston. Hes going to cause a lot of problems for a lot of teams.

Hes going to make his presence felt immediately.

Malone is expected to start along with the big three of Tony Bennett, Jason McLeish and Desmond Ferguson. Projected returnee Eric Crookshank could also start.

Levingston called Malone an NBA talent.

Malones last pro stop was in 2007-08 with the American Basketball Associations Strong Island Sound. He has also played for the Harlem Globetrotters and had stops in the Continental Basketball Association, Argentina and China.

Courtesy of www.metronews.ca


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


Jason Warren in Portugal - by Nuno Vieira
The MVP of the 2League in Lithuania sign in Portugal with CD Povoa/MonteAdriano.
After a very good season playing Pieno Zvaigzdes Pasvalys, where in 43 games had the folowing stats, Score-4 (17.3ppg), Reb-1 (9.8rpg), 1.7apg, 1.7spg, 1.0bpg, 2FGP: 47.4%, 3PT: 33.4%, FT: 68.5%, the Forward Jason Warren (200-F-84, college: Missouri Western) decide to sign in Portugal.
Jason has the ability to guard any player. Very quick with good footwork. Have very long arms that are used to block shoots and rebound. Able to do everything. From guarding a point guard to a Center. Can take player off the dribble or post up and can also hit the 3 pointer very consistently.
Jason Warren (200-F-84, college: Missouri Western) will be if he adjust well in Portugal the main force in the ProLiga.

Market News - by Luis Rocha
Sampaense signs Tai Crutchfield (200-F/G-78, agency: Hart Sports Mngm, college: Philadelphia), he returns to Portugal after some years, when he played for Telecom. He can play as a 1,2or even 3, and can be a good signing for Sampaense. . CAB sign Nuno Pedroso (187-G-79), Ryan Schneider (201-F-85, college: Marist), Rick Cardoso (201-F-85, college: Cal.St.-Stanislaus) and Matt Webster (203-F-84, college: Evansville). The club feels the season will be though, but at the same time they are confident in making a good job.

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


Stats Leaders - Men


Standings
Div.A Standings
 1. Gaz Metan 2-0 
 2. Otopeni 1-0 
 3. CSU Sibiu 1-0 
 4. Oradea 1-0 
 5. Ploiesti 1-0 
 6. U.Mobitel.CN 1-0 
 7. Pitesti 1-0 
 8. Bucuresti 1-1 
 9. Gladiator CN 0-1 
 10. Steaua Turabo 0-1 
 11. Craiova 0-1 
 12. Rovinari 0-1 
 13. Dinamo B. 0-1 
 14. Brasov 0-1 
 15. Mures 0-1 
 16. Timisoara 0-1 


Div.A Round: 1 (Regular Season) - by Eurobasket News
U.Mobitel.CN - Dinamo B. 74-55
U-Mobitelco had little problems against Dinamo Bucuresti at home court. Mihai Silvasan (200-F-85, agency: Court Side) and Zoran Krstanovic led the balanced effort with 13 points each. David Lawrence and Flavius Lapuste had 12 points apiece for the winners. Viorel Mocanu netted 14 points for Dinamo in the loss.

Steaua Turabo - CSU Sibiu 69-75
One of the tournament favorites CSU Sibiu upset Steaua Turabo on the road. Earl Brown (186-G-78, college: Loyola, IL) came off the bench for 22 points. Jason Smith delivered 19 points in the winning effort. Ronald Timus stepped up with 18 points for Steaua.

Municipal B. - Gladiator CN 82-65
Municipal Bucuresti posted the initial victory in the season. They prevailed against Gladiator Cluj Napoca. Radomir Marojevic (207-C-81) was responsible for 21 points and 13 boards. Sasa Mijajlovic had 14 points and 10 boards, while Paul Helcioiu netted 17 in the win. Levi Levine top-scored with 18 points for Gladiator.

Ploiesti - Timisoara 96-80
Ploiesti held off Timisoara in the central matchup of the first round. The defending champions proved the strength in the remake of the last season final clash. Virgil Carutasu (204-C-76) exploded with 21 points and 19 rebounds to lead the charge. Darius Hargrove was helpful with 19 points, 6 boards and 4 assists in the victory. Rade Dzambic came up with 19 points for Timisoara. Dan Paltinisanu netted 17 points in defeat.

Otopeni - Mures 66-63
Otopeni toppled Targu Mures in a close battle. LeVar Seals (194-G-82, college: De Paul) came up with 18 points and 7 boards in the winning effort. Andrei Capusan produced 15 points for the home team. Targu Mures looked solid enough in the first game of the regular season despite the loss. Marius Pociukonis and Travis Reed knocked down 13 points each.

Pitesti - Rovinari 83-78
Liviu Dumitru (203-C-79) unloaded 31 points to pace Pitesti past Rovinari in the first game of the season. Mihai-Octavian Paul produced 26 points in the winning case. Justin Griffin nailed 18 points for Rovinari. Kevin Tyner chipped in 17 points in defeat.

Oradea - Craiova 89-78
Oradea looks into the new season hopeful with the home win in the starting game. They overcame Craiova behind 27 points from Predrag Mijuskovic (189-G-78). Andelko Mandic added 21 points for the winners. Marjan Tasic answered with 27 points for Craiova. O'Darien Bassett had 21 points in the loss.

Gaz Metan - Brasov 108-64
Gaz Metan cruised past Brasov in the opener. Jarrett Howell (188-G-84, agency: Beo Basket, college: Texas Arlington) masterminded the win with 26 points, 7 assists, 5 steals and 5 boards. Kitwana Rhymer had 18 points and 11 boards for the home team. Tsvetelin Ivanov replied with 25 points for Brasov. Dejan Mladenovic knocked down 12 points in the loss.


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


CSKA Moscow names Victor Khryapa new captain - by Eurobasket News
CSKA Moscow announced that new captain for season 2009/10 will be Viktor Khryapa (204-F/G-82). He will take the 'duty' from Slovenian player Matjaz Smodis, who is out due to injury.
Viktor Khryapa is a member of CSKA Moscow since February 2008, when he returned from the Chicago Bulls. Actually, Khryapa also played for the Russian powerhouse on seasons 2002/03 and 2003/04.
Last season, Viktor Khryapa appeared in 21 Euroleague games averaging 6.6 ppg and 4.9 rpg. In Russian league he added 8.5 ppg, 7.5 rpg and 2.7 apg. He ended this contest as the leading rebounder and third 'stealer'. By Eurobasket.com, Khryapa was named 'All-Russian A Superleague Defensive Player of the Year', as well as 'Russian A Superleague All-Domestic Players Team'. CSKA defended the trophy in Russian championship and reached the Euroleague Finals. In 2008, CSKA managed to win the Euroleague trophy. The player has four championship titles in Russia, all with CSKA.
With Team Russia, Viktor Khryapa grabbed the Gold on EuroBasket 2007 in Madrid. He played 9 games averaging 11.2 ppg, 78 rpg and 3.2 apg. Since 2001 he is a member of Russian NT, taking participation on all important events.

Viktor Khryapa:

'I am honored to continue the tradition of the captains of a great team, the team which won a huge number of titles and achieved a lot. Season promises to be difficult due to major changes in the coaching staff and in the roster. I will try to lead by example on the court and to show that I deserve to have such an honorable title.'

Andrey Vatutin, PBC CSKA President:

'Matjaz Smodis did an excellent job as a captain last season. Alas, Matjaz will not be able to help the team until the New Year, and we had to choose a player who will lead the others. Frankly speaking, it did not take a lot of time: Viktor Khryapa was an evident candidate. Victor enjoys unquestioned authority; he is a true leader, endowed with a great sense of humor and, most importantly, a true fighter, able to light up the partners and supporters. I wish our new captain fast recovery and return on the court.'

Evgeny Pashutin, CSKA Head Coach:

'Victor has a bright personality, he is a basketball player with a big heart and strong character, he is able to lead his teammates at difficult moments. I wish him fast recovery and return on the court.'

(Quotes are taken from www.cskabasket.com)


Russian Cup. 1/8 Finals - by Eurobasket News
The first games of the 1/8 Finals just have finished in the country. In seven games out of eight the guests celebrated the first victories. Dynamo Teplostroy beat Neftehimik 84:60, while Ryazan had a road victory over Voronezh 101:89. Ruskon Saravia beat the team from Tambov 86:80 and Nizhniy Novgorod outscored Soyuz 112:70. Ural rolled over Stariy Sobol 71:63, whilst Severstal won over Planeta Universitet 82:60. Rosneft beat Lipets 79:72 and Irkut was the only team to win at home beating Spartak-Primorye 84:71 as Anton Lanchakov (202-C-85) scored 18 points and Bazhenov had 17.
Krasnie Krilya beat Ukrainina Azovmash in the friendly game. The teams weer equal to each other and kept the spectators alive until the last minute of the game. The Russian side looked a bit better at the very end to take 90:85 victory. For Azovmash Simonas Serapinas (197-F-82) posted 18 points, while Daniels and Prekyavicius added 17 each. Rizvich and podorvanniy ended up with 15 points apiece.
Enisey meanwhile smashed Slovenian Koper 99:56 in another friendly game. The Russian team won the opening quarter 28-11 and then added 30-10 at the second. The lead was more than enough going to the lockers for 58:21. Koper however bounced back with 26-16 in the third frame and reduced the gap a bit in the game. Enisey finished the campaign with 25-11 in the last stanza to reach 99 points. Kaspars Kambala (206-C-78, college: UNLV) top-scored for the winners with 26 points and 5 steals. Warrick posted 16 points and Demeshkin netted 13. Chalmers, Vladimir Dyachok (204-F-80) and Zakamov scored 10 apiece for the winners.

Khimky and Dynamo winless in Spain - by Eurobasket News
Both Khimky and Dynamo are holding their training camps in Spain at the moment. Yesterday the Russian powerhouses played exhibition games.
Khimky faced CB Granada and suffered a 66:77 defeat. The hosts unloaded 28 points in the opening frame and earned a 5-point lead at the first break. They maintained the margin throughout the next two periods entering the fourth term ahead by 9 points. Khimky failed to come up with any sort of answer in the dying minutes and had to surrender at the end. Joe Ingles (203-G/F-87, agency: Priority Sports) was unstoppable with 25 points for the hosts. Pablo Aguilar (203-F/C-89) added 13 points in the win. Timofey Mozgov (215-C-86) and Keith Langford (193-G/F-83, college: Kansas) responded with 13 points each for Khimky. Paulius Jankunas (203-F-84, agency: Interperformances) and Kelly McCarty (201-F-75, agency: Avi Zilberman, college: S.Mississippi) delivered 8 points each in the loss.
Xacobeo Blu:Sens handed Dynamo Moscow the second straight defeat 81:60. Reyshawn Terry (203-F-84, college: N.Carolina) dropped 15 points as Xacobeo Blu:Sens overcame a 3-point deficit after the opening frame to post a comfortable win at the end. Marc Jackson (206-C/F-75, college: Temple) netted 14 points for the winners. Ilya Syrovatko (193-G-88) finished with 17 points for the Moscow outfit. Alexey Zhukanenko (210-F-86) and Vladimir Shevel (199-G-84) finished with 10 points each in defeat.


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


FMP outsmarts Buducnost in pre-season meeting - by Eurobasket News
FMP - Buducnost 83-77

FMP managed to peg Buducnost for the loss they suffered last week, also in a friendly match. This time Serbian outfit recorded 83-77 victory in a match where they dominated on defensive end. Also, FMP had full squad at its disposal, after Miroslav Raduljica (213-C-88) was in the line-up. It was a closely fought contest in the first quarter. Lead exchanged from basket to basket, but in the end it was FMP with 19-18 after 10 minutes of play. We saw more of the same in the second quarter, as teams continued to exchange baskets. Vladimir Dragicevic (206-C/F-86) for Buducnost and Miroslav Raduljica for FMP were particularity active during this period as both teams based offense on their posts. Buducnost managed to take the lead in the closing minutes of the half and grabbed 39-41 lead to the halftime break. In the second half, FMP opened the quarter with the run to regain the plus. They continued to pressure Buducnost players which enabled them points in transition. With 10 minutes left, FMP held 60-56. They went on another run to increase their lead and Buducnost could not come back. All they did until the end of the game was to cut the deficit for the final score of 83-77.
Nemanja Protic (182-G-86) (182-G-86) and Miroslav Raduljica led the way for the winning side with 15 and 14 points respectively. Mladen Jeremic (196-G-88) and Predrag Samardziski (214-C-86, agency: Interperformances) followed close behind, adding 13 points each. Vladimir Dragicevic was excellent for Buducnost finishing the contest with 22 points. Marko Simonovic (202-F-86, agency: Beo Basket) and Cedomir Vitkovac (201-F-82, agency: Beo Basket) also scored in double figures for Buducnost, finishing with 11 points apiece.

FMP: Nemanja Protic 15, Miroslav Raduljica 14, Mladen Jeremic 13, Predrag Samardziski 13
Buducnost: Vladimir Dragicevic 22, Marko Simonovic 11, Cedomir Vitkovac 11

Tournament 'Veliki za male' begins in Vrsac - by Zoran Popovic
Traditional tournament 'Veliki za male' is set to begin. As it was over the past 8 years, Hemofarm will be the host of this event. Participants will be Radnicki Kragujevac, PAOK and Cedevita.
Today is the first day of the tournament and Radnicki will meet Cedevita. In the second game Hemfoarm will play against PAOK. Games for the first and third place are scheduled for tomorrow.

PAOK hands 85-73 loss to Novi Sad in a friendly - by Eurobasket News
Novi Sad - PAOK Thessaloniki 73-85

PAOK Thessaloniki cruised past Novi Sad in a pre-season game. The Serbian team was a host, but didn't succeed to avoid defeat. PAOK players were simply strong enough, registering another win in friendly games. Predrag Drobnjak (212-F/C-75) was the leading scorer in victory with 22 points. Kenny Gregory (197-G/F-78, college: Kansas) drained 21, while Giorgos Tsiaras (207-C/F-82) delivered 17. Chris Monroe (191-G-81, college: George Washington) was fourth scorer of the team with 14 points. In the loosing squad, Dusko Bunic (205-C-89) and Branislav Jancikin (198-G-86) posted 15 points each. Rakic and Maksim Kovacevic (199-G/F-87) contributed with 12 pts apiece. Novi Sad was slightly better team at the beginning. Neither of two squads was able to make a serious run, but still it was Novi Sad who held 22-19 lead. PAOK players woke up in the following ten minutes, intensifying defense and stopping the hosts on just 9 more point until the half time. On the other side, Predrag Drobnjak and his teammates delivered 21 points for 31-40 lead at the half time. PAOK never looked back after that. Second half was totally leveled, but it seems it was something what the Greek squad wanted. At the end it was totally deserved 73-85 win for the guests, who are preparing for domestic championship, which tips off on October 24.

Novi Sad: Dusko Bunic 15, Branislav Jancikin 15, Rakic 12, Maksim Kovacevic 12
PAOK Thessaloniki: Predrag Drobnjak 22, Kenny Gregory 21, Giorgos Tsiaras 17, Chris Monroe 14

Partizan tour update from Detroit - by Eurobasket
by David Maravilla
the most recent game between BC Partizan Igokea Beograd and The Midwest All Stars:BC Partizan Igokea Beograd 101-Midwest All Stars 81
BC Partizan Igokea Beograd Belgrade and the Midwest All Stars met for the second time in four days,this time in Detroit .BC Partizan Igokea Beograd suffered a major blow early as Jan Vesely (211-F-90) collided head first with another player and had to be taken out of the game. He suffered a cut on his forehead and recieved several stiches . Jan looked to be fine after the game.
The game itself was a close contest for the first twenty four minutes as BC Partizan Igokea Beograd finished the half with a five point lead. BC Partizan Igokea Beograd played a very disciplined second half and their offense was working with precision and expanded the lead to twenty points. .Alexsander Rasic and Alexsander Maric each finished with Eighteen points while Midwest All Stars were lead by Ali Berdiel (198-G-83, college: Valparaiso) with Eighteen points and six assists Robert Traylor (204-F/C-77, agency: Lanshire Group, college: Michigan) added fourteen points for the All Stars.


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


Stats Leaders - D1
Points Per Game
 Jerice CROUCH
  Inter Bratislava
  (182-G-84)
  Avg: 29
 1. Crouch, Inter B.29.0 
 2. Hill, Nitra25.0 
 3. Hill, Nitra23.0 
 4. Hill, Nitra23.0 
 5. Gavel, Svit22.0 
 6. Gavel, Svit22.0 
 7. Gavel, Svit22.0 
 8. Skara, B.Bystrica22.0 
 9. Crawford, Levice20.5 
 10. Crawford, Levi.20.5 
Rebounds Per Game
 Gabriel SZALAY
  Prievidza
  (215-C-86)
  Avg: 10
 1. Szalay, Prievidza10.0 
 2. Nicholson, Pezinok9.5 
 3. Nizny, Vahostav.9.0 
 4. Baldovsky, Nova Ves9.0 
 5. Ravasz, Inter B.9.0 
 6. Skara, B.Bystrica9.0 
 7. Skara, B.Bystrica9.0 
 8. Nicholson, Pezinok9.0 
 9. Nizny, Vahostav.9.0 
 10. Nizny, Vahost.9.0 
Assists Per Game
 Clifford CRAWFORD
  Levice
  (194-G-81)
  Avg: 15
 1. Crawford, Levice15.0 
 2. Crawford, Levice15.0 
 3. Crawford, Levice15.0 
 4. Crawford, Levice15.0 
 5. Glavinic, Handlova12.0 
 6. Glavinic, Handlova10.0 
 7. Zavodny, Vahost.6.0 
 8. Zavodny, Vahost.6.0 
 9. Milosevic, Pezinok6.0 
 10. Milosevic, Pezin.6.0 
Steals Per Game
 David TOYA
  Pezinok
  (200-G/F-76)
  Avg: 6
 1. Toya, Pezinok6.0 
 2. Toya, Pezinok6.0 
 3. Toya, Pezinok6.0 
 4. Toya, Pezinok6.0 
 5. Crawford, Levice5.0 
 6. Ivan, Inter B.4.0 
 7. Demecko, Nova Ves4.0 
 8. Demecko, Nova Ves4.0 
 9. Crawford, Levice3.5 
 10. Crawford, Levi.3.5 
Blocks Per Game
 Peter TILANDY
  Vahostav-Zilina
  (193-G-87)
  Avg: 3
 1. Tilandy, Vahost.3.0 
 2. Tilandy, Vahost.3.0 
 3. Bajic, Svit3.0 
 4. Tilandy, Vahost.3.0 
 5. Zavodny, Vahost.2.0 
 6. Crawford, Levice2.0 
 7. Archibeque, Levice2.0 
 8. Zavodny, Vahost.2.0 
 9. Zavodny, Vahost.2.0 
 10. Bajic, Sv.1.5 


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


Big changes at Zasavje - by Zeljko Zule
Newly promoted Zasavje PRO-TEK has fired David Paris (206-F-84, college: Bowie St.), Nate Bowie (183-G-86, college: Cent.Arkansas) and Nikola Jeftic (202-F-85) due a bad perfomance and has replaced them with Sasa Mucic (202-F-83) ex Pepinster, Vladimir Anzulovic (186-G-78, agency: Promotex)lovic ex Hopsi and Vlado Pasalic (207-C/F-81, agency: Interperformances) ex CPG Nova Gorica.
Former National Team member Ervin Dragsic is the new head coach of Terme Olimia (D2).

Latest news - by Eurobasket News
Union Olimpija cruised past Galatasaray in the opener of the International tournament in Turkey. The Slovenian team won the opening quarter 25-17 and added 14-13 in the second period. The Turkish team bounced back later in the game and tied the score at 60:60. Union however reached the necessary victory to win the opener. Matt Walsh (197-F/G-82, agency: Arik Krayn Services, college: Florida) top-scored for the winners with 11 points and Gasper Vidmar nailed 10. Uros Slokar (210-F/C-83) and Sani Becirovic produced 9 each, while Vladmir Golubovic collected 8 points and 11 boards. Radoslav Rancik (207-F/C-79, agency: Beo Basket, college: St.Cloud St.) ended up with 15 points and 5 rebounds in defeat.
Polzela will host a tournament of four this Friday and Saturday. Zabok, Zasavje Pro-Tec, Hopsi Polzela and Elektra are the participating teams of it.
Russian Enisey meanwhile smashed Slovenian Koper 99:56 in another friendly game. The Russian team won the opening quarter 28-11 and then added 30-10 at the second. The lead was more than enough going to the lockers for 58:21. Koper however bounced back with 26-16 in the third frame and reduced the gap a bit in the game. Enisey finished the campaign with 25-11 in the last stanza to reach 99 points. Kaspars Kambala (206-C-78, college: UNLV) top-scored for the winners with 26 points and 5 steals. Warrick posted 16 points and Demeshkin netted 13. Chalmers, Dyachok Vladimir and zakamov scored 10 apiece for the winners.

Hopsi inks Jagodnik, Lebedyntsev and Radojevic join TCG Mercator on loan - by Zeljko Zule
Hopsi officially inked NT member Goran Jagodnik (202-F-74, agency: Beo Basket) ex Nymburk.
Edin Alispahic (208-F/C-88) has parted ways with Zlatorog to join Sentjur Alpos for upcoming season.
TCG Mecator loaned Andriy Lebedyntsev (190-G-91) and Dejan Radojevic (213-C/F-89) of Union Olimpija.
Luka Koper inked their former member Niko Sare (196-G/F-81) ex Portoroz.
Postojna (B1) loaned U-18 NT member Klemen Panic (180-G-91) of Geoplin Slovan.


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  SPAIN   


Xacobeo Blu:Sens keeps veteran Mike Higgins, names him a captain - by Eurobasket News
Mike Higgins (205-F/C-67, college: N.Colorado) will play for Xacobeo Blu:Sens this season. His short-time contract with the club expires today, but the team decided to keep the experienced player for rest of the season. He showed enough to satisfy the team's head coach, as well as Management of the club. At the same time, Xacobeo Blu:Sens announced that Higgins will be the team's captain for season 2009/10.
Mike Higgins is veteran (42-year old) big guy, who has many seasons behind him in Spain. Except of USA citizenship, he also posses Spanish passport. Last season, Higgins played for CB Granada, but after just 3 games moved to Gandia Basquet in LEB Gold. There, Higgins appeared 16 times averaging 2.5 ppg and 5.3 rpg. He changed many teams in the past. Some of them were CAI Zaragoza, Leon, Cantabria Lobos, Bilbao and Gran Canaria.
In 2008 he helped CAI Zaragoza to win the ACB promotion, after they grabbed the title in LEB Gold. He had less than 2 ppg, but his experience helped all players to improve. That is something what is expected from Higgins this season at Xacobeo Blu:Sens. His experience will not be useful so much on the court, but his advices and great personality for sure will help this team in their first ACB season.

Los Angeles Lakers sign Thomas Kelati - by Eurobasket News
The Los Angeles Lakers have signed free agent guard Thomas Kelati (195-G/F-82, college: Washington St.) .The deal was announced yesterday.
The 27-year old Thomas Kelati is coming to NBA from Spanish team Unicaja Malaga. Actually, during the summer he supposed to join Greek team Olympiacos Pireus, but at the end that transfer failed. Kelati appeared 16 times in Euroleague last season averaging 11.8 ppg, 1.9 rpg and 1.3 apg. In Spanish ACB league he had 10.3 ppg, 1.7 rpg and 1.5 spg for 37 games. Unicaja Malaga reached ACB Semifinals.
From 2006 to 2008 Thomas Kelati was a player of Polish team BOT Turow Zgorzelec. With them, Kelati reached ULEB Cup Quarterfinals in 2008 and played twice in domestic championship Playoff Finals. Second season with the team Kelati ended with 14.8 ppg and 3.2 rpg for 15 ULEB Cup games. In Polish league he had 15.2 ppg and 3 rpg. In 2007, he was named 'Eurobasket.com All-Polish League Player of the Year -07'.
Before Unicaja and Turow, Thomas Kelati played one year for Belgian team Dexia Mons-Hainaut averaging 4.1 ppg and 1.5 rpg for 33 games. That was his first season in Europe, after he graduated at Washington State University. In senior year with Washington, Kelati had 14.3 ppg and 4.3 rpg.

Valencia account for Alicante in exhibition game - by Eurobasket News
Valencia posted the fifth pre-season win. They rallied past Alicante 84:76 at the Pabellon de Godella. Nando De Colo (202-G-87) and Marko Marinovic (183-G-83) paced Valencia with 15 points each. Alicante entered the game firing heavily and grabbed a 27:17 lead after ten minutes. But Valencia answered right back in the second period leveling things up at 41. Valencia exploded in the third period. They fired past their opponents 25:9 to build an unassailable lead. Alicante had no chance however they fought bravely and trimmed the distance. Victor Claver (207-F/C-88) finished with 13 points, while Kosta Perovic and Rafael Martinez delivered 12 points each in the victory. Txemi Urtasun (193-G-84, agency: Interperformances) responded with 12 points for Alicante. Austin nailed 11 points in defeat.
CB Granada outgunned Russian Khimky 77:66 at home court. Joe Ingles (203-G/F-87, agency: Priority Sports) was unstoppable with 25 points for the hosts. Pablo Aguilar (203-F/C-89) added 13 points in the win. Timofey Mozgov (215-C-86) and Keith Langford (193-G/F-83, college: Kansas) responded with 13 points each for Khimky. Jankunas and McCarty delivered 8 points each in the loss.
Xacobeo Blu:Sens handed Dynamo Moscow the second straight defeat 81:60. Reyshawn Terry (203-F-84, college: N.Carolina) dropped 15 points as Xacobeo Blu:Sens overcame a 3-point deficit after the opening frame to post a comfortable win at the end. Marc Jackson (206-C/F-75, college: Temple) netted 14 points for the winners. Ilya Syrovatko (193-G-88) finished with 17 points for the Moscow outfit.


Melilla tab Jonathan Skjoldebrand - by Eurobasket News
Melilla boosted the roster with addition of Swedish international Jonathan Skjoldebrand (203-C/F-83). The 26-year-old power forward comes from Clinicas Rincon Axarquia. Last season he averaged 8.4 points and 2.9 rebounds per game in LEB Gold. Earlier he played for Hapoel Galil Elyon, Ramat Hasharon in Israel, Sodertalje in Sweden and Kouvot in Finland. Jonathan Skjoldebrand tallied 14.7 points and 2.0 rebounds per game during European Championship in Division B this year.


CB Huelva bring in Shalawn Miller - by Eurobasket News
CB Huelva strengthened their frontcourt. They added Shalawn Miller (204-C/F-74, college: Mass.-Lowell) to the roster. The 35-year-old centre spent the last two seasons with Gandia Baskquet. Last year the veteran notched 7.4 points, 5.6 boards and 1.3 assists per game. Previously Shalawn Miller had stints with Fribourg in Switzerland as well as Llobregat, Airtel Porrino, Valls-Felix Hotel and Palma Aqua Magica in Spain.


Standings - LEB Gold
LEB Gold Standings
 1. Ourense 1-0 
 2. Caceres 1-0 
 3. La Laguna 1-0 
 4. Cornella 1-0 
 5. Mallorca 1-0 
 6. CAI Zaragoza 1-0 
 7. La Palma 1-0 
 8. Melilla 1-0 
 9. Girona 0-0 
 10. Andorra NT 0-0 
 11. Breogan 0-0 
 12. Leon 0-1 
 13. CB Tarragona 0-1 
 14. Burgos 0-1 
 15. Tenerife 0-1 
 16. Vive Menorca 0-1 
 17. Palencia 0-1 
 18. Clin.Rincon 0-1 
 19. Vigo 0-1 


Standings - LEB Silver
LEB Standings
Group A
 1. L'Hospitalet 1-0 
 2. Alaior 1-0 
 3. Santurtzi 1-0 
 4. Coruna 1-0 
 5. Rosalia 0-0 
 6. Prat Juventud 0-0 
 7. Andorra 0-0 
 8. Huesca 0-1 
 9. ADT Tarragona 0-1 
 10. Caja Rioja 0-1 
 11. Navarra 0-1 
Group B
 1. Promobys 1-0 
 2. Real M. II 1-0 
 3. Qalat CajaSol 1-0 
 4. Alcazar 0-0 
 5. Matchmind 0-0 
 6. Plasencia 0-0 
 7. Illescas 0-0 
 8. Guadalajara 0-1 
 9. CajasurCord. 0-1 
 10. Huelva 0-1 


Stats Leaders - LEB Gold
Points Per Game
 Kammron TAYLOR
  Le Havre
  (188-G-84)
  Avg: 18.1
 1. Taylor, Rosalia18.1 
 2. Detrick, La Laguna17.7 
 3. Guillen, Los Barrios17.6 
 4. Terrell, La Palma17.1 
 5. Kiefer, Vic16.7 
 6. Cusworth, Breogan15.9 
 7. Robinson, Gandia B.15.9 
 8. Morley, Gandia B.15.2 
 9. Donaldson, La La.15.1 
 10. Blair, Mallor.14.8 
Rebounds Per Game
 Jakim DONALDSON
  La Laguna
  (203-C/F-83)
  Avg: 9.5
 1. Donaldson, La La.9.5 
 2. Prestes, Clin.Rincon9.4 
 3. Battle, Valladolid8.8 
 4. Simien, Caceres8.2 
 5. Guillen, Los Barrios7.8 
 6. Cusworth, Breogan7.1 
 7. Baez, Leon7.0 
 8. Hamilton, Tenerife7.0 
 9. Starosta, Plus P.6.9 
 10. Nana, Rosal.6.8 
Assists Per Game
 Xavier MENDIBURU
  Plus Pujol
  (197-G/F-80)
  Avg: 4.7
 1. Mendiburu, Plus Pujol4.7 
 2. Sala, La Palma4.1 
 3. Jimenez, Illescas3.8 
 4. Lopez, Breogan3.7 
 5. Dumas, Valladolid3.7 
 6. Bernabe, Leon3.6 
 7. Brown, Caceres3.6 
 8. Colom, Plus Pujol3.4 
 9. Cortaberria, Clin.R.3.4 
 10. Jimenez, Gandia.3.0 
Steals Per Game
 Marc BLANCH
  Mallorca
  (195-F-82)
  Avg: 2.5
 1. Blanch, Mallorca2.5 
 2. Van Lacke, Valladolid1.9 
 3. Bernabe, Leon1.8 
 4. Boccia, Tenerife1.7 
 5. Lopez, Breogan1.7 
 6. Baez, Leon1.6 
 7. Terrell, La Palma1.5 
 8. Hill, Lucentum Al.1.5 
 9. Sabat, Vic1.5 
 10. Angulo, Cacer.1.5 
Blocks Per Game
 Robert BATTLE
  Valladolid
  (204-C-81)
  Avg: 2
 1. Battle, Valladolid2.0 
 2. Donaldson, La La.1.7 
 3. Hamilton, Tenerife1.4 
 4. Cusworth, Breogan1.3 
 5. Simien, Caceres1.3 
 6. Lewis, Plus Pujol1.1 
 7. Andriuskevic., Lucent.1.0 
 8. Nana, Rosalia0.9 
 9. Starosta, Plus P.0.9 
 10. Prestes, Clin.Rinc.0.9 


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


Standings - Basketligan
Basketligan Standings
 1. Norrkoping 3-0 
 2. Plannja 3-0 
 3. Eco Orebro 3-0 
 4. Boras 2-1 
 5. Solna 2-1 
 6. Sundsvall 2-1 
 7. Sodertalje 0-2 
 8. Jamtland 0-2 
 9. Gothia Basket 0-2 
 10. 08 0-3 
 11. Uppsala 0-3 


Stats Leaders - Basketligan
Points Per Game
 Johan WESTERLUND
  08
  (191-G/F-84)
  Avg: 21.5
 1. Westerlund, 0821.5 
 2. Klaric, Eco Orebro19.0 
 3. Klaric, Eco Orebro19.0 
 4. Klaric, Eco Orebro19.0 
 5. Jeansson, Sundsvall18.0 
 6. Jonker, Sundsvall18.0 
 7. Westerlund, 0817.7 
 8. Westerlund, 0817.7 
 9. Jonker, Sundsvall17.0 
 10. Ringstrom, Gothia.17.0 
Rebounds Per Game
 Michael PALM
  Boras
  (208-C-79)
  Avg: 15
 1. Palm, Boras15.0 
 2. Ringstrom, Gothia B.14.5 
 3. Palm, Boras14.0 
 4. Palm, Boras13.3 
 5. Palm, Boras13.3 
 6. Jonker, Sundsvall12.7 
 7. Jonker, Sundsvall12.7 
 8. Jonker, Sundsvall12.7 
 9. Jonker, Sundsvall12.0 
 10. Buchanan, Sol.11.0 
Assists Per Game
 Hakan LARSSON
  Plannja
  (184-G-74)
  Avg: 9
 1. Larsson, Plannja9.0 
 2. Larsson, Plannja7.5 
 3. Grant, Norrkoping7.0 
 4. Grant, Norrkoping6.7 
 5. Grant, Norrkoping6.7 
 6. Grant, Norrkoping6.7 
 7. Pleick, Eco Orebro6.3 
 8. Pleick, Eco Orebro6.3 
 9. Pleick, Eco Orebro6.3 
 10. Licartovsky, Eco.6.0 
Steals Per Game
 Rhys CARTER
  Gothia Basket
  (190-G-84)
  Avg: 5
 1. Carter, Gothia B.5.0 
 2. Buchanan, Solna4.0 
 3. Saks, Norrkoping4.0 
 4. Saks, Norrkoping4.0 
 5. Buchanan, Solna4.0 
 6. Carter, Gothia B.3.5 
 7. Grant, Norrkoping3.0 
 8. Grant, Norrkoping3.0 
 9. Grant, Norrkoping3.0 
 10. Ryan, Bor.2.5 
Blocks Per Game
 John ROSENDAHL
  Plannja
  (203-F/C-77)
  Avg: 4
 1. Rosendahl, Plannja4.0 
 2. Palm, Boras4.0 
 3. Konare, Jamtland3.0 
 4. Odada, 083.0 
 5. Odada, 083.0 
 6. Rosendahl, Plannja3.0 
 7. Kjellbom, Norrkoping2.5 
 8. Myrthil, Solna2.0 
 9. Myrthil, Solna2.0 
 10. Liden, Sodertal.2.0 


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


BROWNWOOD BRIGAIDE HOSTING TRYOUTS - by Chris Cardenas
BROWNWOOD,TX- the 10th anniversary of the TPBL is just around the corner and Brownwood,tx cant wait to show texas what they are bringing to the table. Team owners, jody jordan and Aaron Adams are still looking for more players to round out their roster for the season and will be hosting an open tryout for all players wanting pro basketball experience. For the ladies, the Brigaide will also be hosting cheerleader/dance team tryouts.

Saturday October 3rd at 9:00am-1:00pm
At Coggin Ave Baptist Church Located at 1715 Coggin Avenue

Registration begins at 8:45am
$15 for Mens Basketball (18+)
$10 for Cheerleaders (18+)
FMI contact Jody Jordan at (325) 227-1331 or Aaron Adams at (325) 374-1548


*****************************************************
  TRINIDAD AND TOBAGO   


Spongy rebounds in Argentina! - by Albert-Lee Young
Trinidad & Tobago forward Wilfred Spongy Benjamin will continue his professional basketball career with 2nd Division team San Martin Marcos Juarez in the Argentina LNA League for the 2009-10 season.

Last season he made his pro debut with Al Ahli Jeddah in Saudi Arabia following his U.S. collegiate stint with Williston State Junior College and Marist University (NCAA D1).

Spongy, who led the 2009 Caribbean Confederation Basketball Championships in rebounds, is expected to play a pivotal role for Head Coach Gustavo Miravet in San Martins quest for a title. Their last success was in 2007 when they won the Liga B Championships before moving up to the LNA division.

Already San Martin has signalled their intentions by winning the Super 6 tournament in August. This is an interesting preseason tournament created last year, where the 6 teams of Cordoba province, that participate in official leagues (Liga A, TNA, Liga B), face each other. This years tournament included Atenas (Liga A), San Martin Marcos Juarez, 9 de Julio (TNA) and Union Electrica, Tiro Federal Morteros, Banda Norte (Liga B). San Martin defeated Atenas, 74-66, in the final. Atenas is the defending champions of Liga A.

The 6 7 Spongy, who started at the power forward position, help team Trinidad & Tobago to a semi final appearance at the Caribbean Championships averaging 12.8 points per game, 9 rebounds per game, 57.8 % field goals, 22.2% from beyond the arc and 85.7% from the free throw line.

He is the second member of the national team to obtain a new contract in an established professional basketball league for the upcoming season.


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


Standings - D1
D1 Standings
Group A
 1. C Africain 5-0 
 2. ES Sahel 3-2 
 3. Ezzahra 3-2 
 4. JS Kairouan 3-2 
 5. CA Bizerte 0-4 
 6. SSK Kasserine 0-4 
Group B
 1. US Monastir 5-0 
 2. Stade Nabeulien 4-1 
 3. CS Hammamet 2-3 
 4. ES Rades 2-3 
 5. C Cheminots 2-3 
 6. JS Manazeh 0-5 


5th round - by Carlos Pereira
The most strong teams, CA and SN, continue to win.
Good results from USMo and JSK.
This day smiled to the USM, which is with its 3rd consecutive win and which seems to find its right balance after painful beginnings.
Monastiriens have, this time, taken the top on the CSC.

Results :

Groupe A
JSK-EZS 75-55
CA-CAB 67-63
ESS-SSK 108-44

Groupe B
CSC-USM 68-78
CSHL-ESR 54-58
JSM-SN 64-77

STANDING :

Groupe A

Pts
1) CA 10
2) ESS 9
3) JSK 8
4) EZS 7
5) CAB 6
6) SSK 4

Groupe B
Pts
1) SN 10
2) USM 9
3) ESR 8
4) CSHL 7
5) CSC 6
6) JSM 5

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


Banvit holds the International tournament with 7 teams participating - by Eurobasket News
Banvit opened one of the top International Pre-season tournaments in Europe before the start of the Regular Season. Besiktas, Crvena Zvezda, Banvit, Panellinios, Union Olimpija, Galatasaray and Efes Pilsen are all ready to battle for the trophy. The teams were divided into two groups with four and three teams respectfully.
In Day 1 Besiktas overcame Crvena Zvezda 82:74 as Lonny Baxter top-scored for the winners with 18 points and 6 caroms. Cevher Ozer scored 14 and Mire Chatman nailed 11. Oliver Stevic brought 14 points in the losing effort.

The hosts of the tournament Banvit beat Greek Panellinios 85:77. The latter was too good from the start and grabbed 30-15 lead after the first 10 minutes. Banvit responded with 23-16 in the second quarter to reduce the gap at the halftime. The hosts brought 18-17 in the third period and had a fabulous last stanza. The Turkish side produced 29-14 in the last 10 minutes to celebrate the victory. Lance Williams (206-C-80, college: De Paul) paced all the winners with 23 points and Charles Davis posted 21. Keith Simmons (196-G-85, agency: Interperformances, college: Holy Cross) ended up with 9 points and Barıs Ermis notched 8. Ian Vougioukas (212-C/F-85, college: St.Louis) and Kostas Charalampidis delivered 12 points for the Greek side. Roderick Blakney (181-G-76, college: S.Carolina St.) nailed 11, while Duro Ostojic added 8.

Union Olimpija cruised past Galatasaray in the opener of the International tournament in Turkey. The Slovenian team won the opening quarter 25-17 and added 14-13 in the second period. The Turkish team bounced back later in the game and tied the score at 60:60. Union however reached the necessary victory to win the opener. Matt Walsh top-scored for the winners with 11 points and Gasper Vidmar nailed 10. Uros Slokar and Sani Becirovic produced 9 each, while Vladmir Golubovic collected 8 points and 11 boards. Radoslav Rancik (207-F/C-79, agency: Beo Basket, college: St.Cloud St.) ended up with 15 points and 5 rebounds in defeat.

In Day 2 Efes Pilsen rolled over Galatasaray Cafe Crown 87:64. The winners started with 24-19 in the opening quarter and posted 21-18 in the second frame. The third quarter became more defensive and Efes added 19-7 in it. Preston Shumpert (198-G-79, college: Syracuse) top-scored for the winners with 19 points and Igor Rakocevic nailed 14. Bostjan Nachbar delivered 10 points, while Charles Smith added 9. Radoslac Rancik and Cemal Nalga nailed 15 points apiece in the losing effort.
Panellinios outscored Crvena Zvezda 78:67 to tie their record at 1-1. The Greek side had a great start and enjoyed 23-8 at the end of the first period. They also won the second period 22-20 to take 17-point advantage at the halftime. Crvena Zvezda reduced the gap after 23-17 in the third period, but could not catch up with the opponent. Devin Smith led the way with 23 points and Kostas Charalampidis posted 17. Elmedin Kikanovic poured in 19 points in the losing case.
Banvit upset Besiktas 83:79 as Keith Simmons led the way with 18 points, while Lance Williams and Barıs Ozcan chipped in 15 points each. Mire Chatman shined with 25 points in the losing effort.


*****************************************************
  UBA   


Standings
UBA Standings
D-League
 1. Columbus D. 0-0 
 2. Warner RK 0-0 
 3. Metro K. 0-0 
 4. Orlando Stars 0-0 
Exhibition-Touring
 1. Proline 0-0 
 2. World B. 0-0 
National Division
 1. Converse F. 0-0 
 2. S. Antonio 0-0 
 3. Irving A. 0-0 
 4. GIE Morrow D. 0-0 
 5. Katy S. 0-0 
 6. Houston G. 0-0 
 7. Austin F. 0-0 
 8. Southside W. 0-0 


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


Alexander Kudriavtsev moves to Ivano-Frankivsk - by Platon Khegai
   Belorussian representative Alexander Kudriavtsev inked a contract with the basketball club Hoverla from Ivano-Frankivsk. Last season 29-years old guard played for Politekhnyka-Galychyna Lviv. 
   Previous clubs:
Grodno-2 (Belarus) '98-01;
BC Minsk (Belarus) '01-03;
AZS Zagaz (Poland) '03-04;
Slavia SPU (Slovakia) '04;
Ostromecko Astoria (Poland) '04-05;
Energa Czarni (Poland) '05-08.
   Kudriavtsev joined his new team in Lithuania during its third training session and had time to play few frendlies.

BC Odesa announced its 11 players' roster - by Alexander Muzyka
BC Odesa set its official roster just before the season has to be started. Note that there are no players that were announced as the inked or longed ones during the summer - Wayne Wallace, Darius Pakamanis, Cameron Crisp (went to Kryvbasbasket), Milos Pavlovic (went to Kryvbasbasket, too) and so on. So BC Odesa has only three newcomers Chris Hill, Volodymyr Gurtovoi and John DeGroat (who was inked just a week ago) plus was so lucky to return Jerome Coleman. A little number of the inked players was the reason why Oleg Yushkin is still a playing coach assistant. The main surpise: this June Valentin Voronin went to Odesa from Politekhnika-Halychyna as the coach assistant but his surname is apsent in this list. First game will take place tomorrow in Zaporizhia vs Ferro-ZNTU.

Main roster

Guards
Artem Butskyi (185-G-81)
Vladyslav Podolian (195-G-86)
Jerome Coleman (185-G-81)
Artem Khitov (193-G-88)
Chris Hill (178-G-83)

Forwards
John DeGroat (198-F-85)
Yuri Fraseniuk (200-F-86)
Artem Shvets (203-G/F-85)
Oleh Yushkin (195-G/F-75)

Centers
Volodymyr Gurtovoi (207-C-75)
Stanislav Balashov (210-C-79)

Farm roster

Guards
Andri Lubinets (196-G-90)
Oleksandr Braslavskyi (188-G-92)
Yevhen Zvolskyi (180-G-93)
Vladyslav Patsyornykh (185-PG-92)
Ihor Saragosh (192-G-93)
Valeri Tomichek (200-G-92)

Forwards
Dmytro Ivanchenko (192-F-92)
Andri Novokreschenov (195-F-92)
Roman Novosad (197-F-92)
Yevhen Shutov (197-F-90)

Centers
Andri Davidchuk (200-C-92)
Dmytro Moskaliuk (202-C-92)
Yevhen Pastushenko (200-F-91)
Kostiantyn Anikienko (215-C-92)

Head coach Vitali Lebedyntsev
Assistants Oleh Yushkin, Andri Druhachionok, Valeri Balashov, Serhi Rekhmatulin.

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


Evans Remains Positive - by Andy Webb
BBL action is at its height this weekend. The Worcester Wolves play Sheffield Sharks on Saturday evening, and head coach Chuck Evans is upbeat for this weekends games, as he takes the positives out of last weeks loss to Marshall MK Lions. He said: We have worked on some obvious weaknesses from the game. Our rebounding and free throw shooting needs to improve and we must limit our turnovers. I applaud my players effort though, and hope we are ready to show everyone our quality this weekend.

Another positive thinker is Everton Tigers coach Tony Garbelotto, who despite having trouble getting some of his import players into the UK, is satisfied with his recruitment this off-season. He admits, however, that there may be an adjustment period for some of his new signings: We have recruited high level players who all have professional basketball experience. Saying this, we may be the youngest team in the league this season, so of course the players will take time to understand the league and of course what we as a team are trying to achieve. His side play the Jelson Homes DMU Leicester Riders on Saturday, as the East Midlands outfit look to avenge the 81-65 semi final loss at the hands of the Tigers at the NIA back in May.

The Worthing Thunder march on from their 20 point win over the Plymouth Raiders last weekend, to take on a feisty Glasgow Rocks side, and Rocks player-coach Sterling Davis has them primed for Worthings three point threat: Its hard to limit threats with them, but from what I understand they have quite a few guys who can knock down the outside shot, so we have to be ready to defend that.

Sunday sees the Worcester Wolves and the Essex Pirates take to the court for the second time in two days, as the Wolves meet the Cheshire Jets and its the Pirates turn to take on Guildford. Jets head coach Paul Smith expressed this week, his disappointment at the injury to BBL veteran Calvin Davis: Its a big loss for us he said He was looking back to his best and its very tough on him, having not long recovered from a back injury.

On another note, Pirates head coach Tim Lewis hails the Heat rosters BBL experience as their main asset. He commented: In Mike Martin and Julius Joseph, the Heat have a wealth experience and are always a tough order to match up against. They have experience in the BBL, which of course is something that we dont have.


TIGERS RIDE OUT ON THE ROAD TO GET SEASON UNDERWAY - by George Manousidis
Everton Tigers are aiming to hit the ground running as they tip off in their third season in the top flight of professional basketball.

Head coach Tony Garbelotto has brought in some new faces over the summer as the Tigers aim to go one better than their second place league finish last season.

The Tigers begin the season away at Leicester Riders on Saturday, looking to avoid a repeat of the narrow three point loss the last time they travelled to the Midlands.

With rivals Newcastle Eagles already posting two wins in their opening games the league scrap is already underway and coach Tony Garbelotto is looking to his players to rise to the challenge.

Saturdays game at the Riders is the start of the Tigers third ever professional season with games coming thick and fast in the following weeks. For the first time, the Tigers will start their home campaign with a prestigious Echo Arena curtain-raiser.

Tony Garbelotto said: Away at Leicester is a not an easy place to start the season, but we cant pick and choose we have to start winning from the get-go.

Ill be looking to the new guys to impress and get themselves bedded in quickly. If we can win on Saturday it will set us up nicely for the Arena home game.

We have to make our home form our bedrock and having thousands backing us at the Arena will really give the team a boost in that respect.

The game in Leicester tips off on Saturday evening at 7.30pm, while tickets are still available for the Arena home game from the Echo Box office on www.echoarena.com or 0844 8000 400.


Eagles Maintain Perfect Start - by Andy Webb
The second weekend of the 2009/10 BBL Championship season got off to victories from the Newcastle Eagles, Glasgow Rocks and Sheffield Sharks on Friday evening.

Newcastle kept up their 100% start to the Championship season thanks to a hard-fought 112- 105 victory over the Jelson Homes DMU Leicester Riders at the Metro Radio Arena. A 15-2 burst, including 10 points from Tack Minor (180-G-84, college: LSU), from the Riders bought the visitors back into the game at 96-95, but 7 points from Charles Smith (198-F-75, college: Rider) instigated a 12-2 run for the Eagles to take the score to 111-100 and the home side held on for the important victory.

The Glasgow Rocks endured a long trip down to Milton Keynes, but returned home with a 78-96 victory over the Marshall MK Lions at the Bletchley Leisure Centre on Friday night. The Lions led early on and took a 49-41 lead into the locker rooms at the half. The Rocks began to get themselves back into the game in the second half and were able to break the game open early in the final period with a 23-2 burst to take the score out to 65-88 and they held on for the comfortable victory.

Sheffield Sharks enjoyed their first victory of the season defeating the Worthing Thunder 84-78 at the EIS, Sheffield. The visitors led 46-49 early in the second half, but 6 points from Tafari Toney (203-F/C-86) helped the Sharks into a 56-49 lead off the back of a 10-0 run. The Sharks maintained their lead throughout the remainder of the game, and despite Worthing getting back to within five points at 81-76, the Sharks held on for the victory.

Marshall MK Lions 78 (24,49,63) (Williams 17, Youngblood/Holmes 14)
Glasgow Rocks 96 (21,41,69) (Yanders 21, Parillon 19, Sapp 16)
Glasgow Rocks moved themselves up into joint third position in the BBL Championship table with a number of other clubs thanks to a 78-96 victory over the Marshall MK Lions at the Bletchley Leisure Centre on Friday evening. In a closely fought opening quarter, the Lions netted the opening four points of the game but the Rocks came back and lead 12-15 early on. Both teams traded baskets for the remainder of the quarter and it was the home side who lead 24-21 at the end of the first period. In the second quarter a succession of three three- pointers from Lions' Yorrick Williams helped the home side into a 49-41 lead at the half. In the second half, Williams netted the opening basket of the half before leaving the game with an ankle injury. The visitors got themselves back into the game following Williams' injury and eight points from Jessie Sapp helped the Rocks into a 63-65 lead going into the final stanza. In the final period the Rocks broke the game open with a 23- 2 tear to take the score out to 65-88 and the Rocks saw out the game for the comfortable victory. Williams top-scored for the Lions with 17 points, but it was Rob Yanders (pictured) who led all scorers in the game with 21 points for the Rocks.

Newcastle Eagles 112 (30,56,80) (Jackson 31, Smith/Stewart 23)
Jelson Homes DMU Leicester Riders 105 (24,50,71) (Minor 28, Wierzbicki 22, Johnson 18)

Newcastle Eagles maintained their 100% start to the 2009/10 BBL Championship season thanks to a hard-fought 112- 105 victory over the Jelson Homes DMU Leicester Riders at the Metro Radio Arena on Friday evening. Both sides started the game evenly matched and traded baskets throughout the early exchanges, but it was the home side who made the first break in the game as a Lynard Stewart basket instigated a 9-2 burst for the Eagles to take the score out to 26-16 with two minutes remaining in the quarter. The Riders kept themselves in touch with Jason Johnson bagging the final four points of the quarter to leave the visitors trailing 30-24 at the end of the opening period. In the second period the Eagles started strongly as Darius Defoe netted the opening four points of the quarter, but the Riders responded immediately with a 9-2 burst of their own to trim the deficit back to a single point at 36- 35. Both teams traded baskets for the remainder of the period and with the game tied at 50-50 with a minute remaining in the half, Andrew Bridge and Reggie Jackson hit a three-pointer each in the closing stages to send the Eagles into the locker rooms leading 56-50 at the half. In the second half both sides began in the same way as the first half by trading baskets in the early going before an 11-4 run for the Eagles took the score out to 80-66, but Leicester kept themselves in the game with a 5-0 run to close out the third period trailing by nine points at 80-71 going into the final stanza. In the final period the home side broke the game open as back-to-back three pointers from Charles Smith set the Eagles onto an 8-0 burst to open up the final quarter and take the score out to 88-71. The Eagles kept extended their lead throughout the period and lead by as many as fifteen points at 94-79 midway through. The Riders were not going to give in without a fight and Tack Minor bagged ten points in a 15-2 Riders tear to get themselves back to within a point at 96-95. A Jackson three-pointer immediately following that Riders burst put the Eagles back in control, and a further 12-2 run from the Eagles, including seven points from Charles Smith in the burst, took the score out to 111- 100 and ultimately give the home side the all-important victory. Jackson led all scorers in the game with 31 points for the Eagles, while Minor led the Riders scoring with 28 points personal.

Sheffield Sharks 84 (19,46,65) (Cook 26, Toney 14, Patton 13)
Worthing Thunder 78 (28,45,60) (Bratton 30, Prezzie- Blue 14, Zafirov 13)

Sheffield Sharks moved themselves up into joint third position in the BBL Championship table thanks to an 84-78 victory over the Worthing Thunder at the EIS, Sheffield on Friday night. The visitors started the game the stronger and lead 8-17 early on in the contest. The visitors continued to lead throughout the remainder of the opening quarter and took a 19-28 lead into the second period, the home side opened the period with a 7-2 tear to trim the deficit back to four points at 26-30. Worthing increased the lead to 26-34, but a 12-2 run from the Sharks, which was finished off by a three-pointer from former Thunder player Ryan Patton on the buzzer, gave the Sharks a 46-45 lead going into the locker rooms at the half. In the second half, the visitors bagged the opening four points of the third period, but a 10-0 response from the home side, including six points from Tafari Toney, took the score out to 56-49. Both sides traded baskets for the remainder of the period, but it was the Sharks who held a 65-60 lead going into the final stanza. In the final period both sides traded baskets throughout much of the period, but a 7-0 burst from the visitors trimmed the deficit back to five points at 81-76, but the Sharks were able to hold on for the all-important victory. Mike Cook led the scoring for the home side with 26 points, but it was Reggie Bratton who led all scorers in the game with 30 points for the Thunder.


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


Rafael Perez will pursue career in Poland - by Francisco Vega
Barquisimeto, Venezuela.- Venezuelan shooting guard Rafael Perez (193-G/F-82) will pursue a career in Poland's first division basketball by travelling to Warsow in the last two weeks of October, after enjoying success in both of Venezuela's top leagues, LPB and LNB, as well and in Puerto Rico's BSN.

Perez, 27 years old, is currently one of the top scorers of Centauros de Apure, the West Conference leader in LNB with a 10-5 record. He averaged 15.6 points in 22 games for Trotamundos de Carabobo in LPB 2009 and then went on to score 17.1 points per match in 26 games for Criollos de Caguas in Puerto Rico. He also played for Venezuela's Senior NT in San Juan during the FIBA Americas Tournament, though his country failed to make it to the second round and lost its chances for a third straight FIBA World Cup participation.

Perez acknowledged that he has offers from Poland and says it will be a good opportunity to make himself known in Europe, so he can jump to a more important league. Other Venezuelans who've played there are Richard Lugo (209-C-73) and Kevin Palacios (203-F/C-84).

Heissler Guillent and Francisco Centeno sharp in Colombia's Fed Cup - by Francisco Vega
Barquisimeto, Venezuela.- Heissler Guillent (186-G-86), of Arrieros de Antioquia, and Francisco Centeno (201-G/F-85), of Cangrejeros de Cartagena, had the most outstanding performances among the Venezuelan players currently active in Colombia's Copa Invitacional Federation, which recently played its 19th and 20th regular season matchdays.

Guillent scored 28 points in a defeat of his team against Piratas de Bogota, 114-105. Jermaine Walker (198-F-77) added 36 points for Arrieros. Meanwhile, in the winning side, Venezuelans Eduardo Torres (195-F-81), Gregory Vargas (182-G-86) and Heberth Bayona (210-C-78) took part in the game. Arrieros took revenge the next night, 71-57.

Meanwhile, Centeno netted 23 points in a defeat against Norte de Santander, 89-72. Norte's Venezuelan Juan Herrera (197-F-81) could not score in double figures this time, but James Maye (201-G/F-81 and Edgar Moreno (191-G-81) did with 26 and 14 points, respectively. For Cartagena, Joseth Spiegel (180-G) added 19 points. In the next match, Centeno was the star in Cartagena's triumph, 70-65, by scoring 24 points, while Spiegel added 15. For Norte, Maye scored 22 points and Herrera finished up with 19.

Miguel Marriaga (206-C-84) and his Bucaros de Bucaramanga defeated the San Andres Islanders, 88-86. Marriaga scored 17 points and grabbed 13 rebounds and Cruz Salcedo (190-G-74) added 19 points. Luis Julio (199-F-80) also played. For San Andres, Dominicans Santos Martinez (198-G/F-81) and Marlon Martinez (204-F/C-79) were the top scorers with 26 and 16 points. Venezuelan Amber Marin (208-C-81) also played. In the next match, San Andres saved the split series with a victory, 118-96, in which Santos Martinez scored 31 points and Cesar Cortez (201-F-80) added 20.


Luis Bethelmy and Jesus Centeno lift Puebla over Potros in Mexico's LNBP - by Francisco Vega
Barquisimeto, Venezuela.- Venezuelans Luis Bethelmy (200-C-86) and Jesus Centeno (190-G-85), members of the Senior NT that played the FIBA Americas Tournament in San Juan, Puerto Rico, last month, continued to shine in Mexico's LNBP as members of Angeles de Puebla, a team coached by Venezuelan Jorge Arrieta, as they took down Potros Itson, 91-90, in Matchday 7.

Bethelmy played 39 minutes and ended up with 19 points, 8 rebounds, 2 assists and a foul. He shot 4-9 from the two-point stance, 3-3 in three-pointers and 2-2 in free throws. Centeno played 25 minutes and supported his side with 13 points, 6 rebounds, 4 assists, a steal and a turnover. He shot 3-7 from the 2-point stance, 1-1 in three-pointers and 4-6 in the personal line.

Puebla enjoyed another good outing by Christopher Jackson (208-C-81, college: N.Mexico St.) with 22 points and 14 rebounds while Jamal Johnson (201-F-81, college: Clayton St.) added 20 points. For Potros, Sammay Monroe (198-F-85, college: Newberry) ended up with 31 points, Roy Walters added 16 points, Parrish Brown (185-G, college: Maryland) finished up with 15 and Jorge Salcedo (194-F-85) with 10.

Flor in the Blue Express - by Wolfgang Lucena
Coach Flor Melendez takes over Trotamundos head coach position for the 2010 Professional Basketball League of Venezuela. Coach Melendez was the pilot of the Oriental ship from the beginning until the end; won the 2009 championship and now will be driving the Blue Express for the 2010 LPB season. Trotamundos de Carabobo was a strong candidate to win the 2009 championship, but by the end of the classificatory round its chemistry went down. With this agreement, Trotamundos management begins it work for the betterment of the organization.




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Women News

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  ADRIATIC LEAGUE - Women  


Sibenik wins Regional Cup Vojsko Herksel - by Zeljko Zule
Sibenik Jolly JBS defeated Gospic CO 85-74 in 4th Regional Cup Vojko Herksel final. Marta Cakic (175-G-82) scored 23 points, Luca Ivankovic collected17 points and 12 rebounds and Snezana Aleksic added 14 points. Jelena Ivezic led Gospic with 36 points.

Finals: Sibenik Jolly JBS - Gospic CO 85-74 (26-14, 17-20, 20-22, 22-19)
SIBENIK JOLLY JBS: akic 23, Lokas 5, Veselovski 6, Aleksic 14, Misura 6, Semren 2, Bura 12, Ivankovic 17. Coach: Zeljko Ciglar.
GOSPIC CO: Ivezic 36, Jurcevic 2, Jelavic 9, M.Vrsaljko 12, Salopek 4, Augustine 2, Thomas 10. Coach: Vlado Brkljacic.

For 3rd place: Merkur Celje - Jedinstvo 76-68 OT (20-13, 10-14, 12-10, 18-23 - 16-8)
MERKUR CELJE: Tavic 13, Kerin 5, Abramovic 3, Baric 10, Verbole 8, Jagodic 11, Hughes 13, Richards 13. Coach: Damir Grgic.
JEDINSTVO: Knezevic 3, Bigovic 10, Garcevic 1, Hadzovic 15, Jankovic, 10, Ruzic,14, Graham 15. Coach: Stojna Vangelovska.

Champions: 2006-Sibenik, 2007-Sibenik, 2008-Gospic, 2009-Sibenik.


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  AUSTRALIA - Women  


WNBL 2009/10 season starts with three games - by Eurobasket News
WNBL 2009/10 season started today with three games. Bendigo Spirit, Logan Thunder and Sydney Uni Flames grabbed the first victories.
The Spirit cruised past Rangers on the road 70-55. Kristi Harrower (166-G-75) demonstrated impressive performance for the winners and was their best player today. She spent almost 39 minutes on the floor collecting 23 points and 6 rebounds. Kelly Wilson (168-G-84) also had very important role netting 20 pts and pulling down 8 boards. In the loosing squad, Megan Moody (188-G/F-83, college: Tulsa) delivered 18 points.
Logan Thunder registered easy home win 79-42 against AIS. Marta Dydek (195-C-82, college: UTEP) shined in victory with 17 points for 20 minutes. AIS got 8 points from Jillian Haughton (178-G-92).
Sydney Uni Flames celebrated on the road against the Perth Lynx 73-61. It was Natalie Porter (185-F-80), who led the guests with 17 points and 8 rebounds. Deanna Smith (179-G-80) also scored 17 and Mikaela Dombkins (181-G/F-86) helped with 2 points less. Takia Starks (173-G-87, college: Texas A&M) had 15 for the hosts.
Three more games of Round 1 will be played today.

Standings - WNBL
WNBL Standings
 1. Sydney UF 1-0 
 2. Bendigo S. 1-0 
 3. Logan T. 1-0 
 4. Canberra C. 0-0 
 5. Adelaide 0-0 
 6. Townsville F. 0-0 
 7. Bulleen B. 0-0 
 8. Dandenong R. 0-1 
 9. AIS 0-1 
 10. Perth L. 0-1 


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  BELGIUM - Women  


Sint Kateline and Waregem are on top of D1 perfect - by Eurobasket News
After four rounds of Belgian D1, Sint Kateline and Waregem are on top of the standings with perfect record.
Last week-end, Sint Kateline cruised past Jeugd Gentson on the road 71-62. Melissa Dennett (188-F-83, college: Colorado St.) was a key player for the winners scoring 20 points and grabbing 7 boards. Miete Celus (175-G/F-91) had 16 points and 6 boards, while Lut De Meyer (180-F-92) added 15 pts and 8 rebounds. In the loosing squad, Nele Poffyn (173-G-91) also scored 15.
Waregem also grabbed road win in Round 4, but against BBC Boom 57-53. Julie Vanloo (174-G-93) led the scorers in victory with 15 points. Tamara Van Respaille (186-C-77) added 13 points and pulled down the same number of rebounds. In BBC Boom, Eveline Decroos (184-F-84) shined with 18 points and 13 boards.
One more game was played this week-end, Houthalen was better than Ieper 65-60. That was another road win.
Two games are not played yet. Point Chaud Sprimont will meet Spirou Monceau and Novia Munalux Namur will take on Dexia Namur. Round 5 is scheduled for October 18.

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  CANADA - Women  


Quebec prevail against Cote d'Ivoire - by Eurobasket News
Quebec - Cote d'Ivoire 65:60
Quebec claimed the initial win at the Francophone Games in Lebanon. They held off Cote d'Ivoire tonight. The victory allowed Quebec to leapfrog their opponents in the ladder. Both teams share 1-3 record. Quebec used a strong first half to build the decisive advantage. They were up by one after ten minutes of action. The North American team unloaded 27 points in the second period and piled up a 13-point halftime lead. Cote d'Ivoire tried to claw their way back into the contest. They cut the distance at 9 points with ten minutes remaining. The African team continued to mount the pressure. They won the final stanza but came up just short of the victory. Chantelle Sfamour delivered 18 points for Quebec. Audrey Latendresse (185-F-83, college: St.Bonaventure) contributed 13 points and 7 boards in the win. Kani Kouyate (90) replied with 18 points for Cote d'Ivoire. Renee Djedjemel finished with 11 points in the losing effort.

Quebec: Chantelle Sfamour 18, Audrey Latendresse 13, Stephanie Bergeron (168-G, college: Franklin Pierce) 8, Karine Bibeau (180-F-83) 8
Cote d'Ivoire: Kani Kouyate 18, Renee Djedjemel 11


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  CROATIA - Women  


Sibenik Jolly overcomes Jedinstvo Bijelo Polje - by Eurobasket News
Sibenik Jolly JBS - Jedinstvo 69-41

Sibenik is the second finalist of the Vojko Herksl Regional Cup after rolling over Jedinstvo 69-41. They have booked a place in the finals and match against Gospic, who won its game against Merkur. Jedinstvo will have to settle for third place game.
Sibenik Jolly displayed great defensive skill as they did not allow Jedinstvo players to score more than 12 points in any quarter. Jedinstvo opened the game poorly, falling behind from the start. Sibenik Jolly took fool advantage of this limiting Jedinstvo to only 8 points and taking 21-8 lead after first quarter. Second period was a low scoring one as neither team could hit a shot. Also both teams made a lot of offensive mistakes which did not help them either. Still at the halftime Sibenik was up 32-18. After the break, Jedinstvo still struggled offensively scoring only 11 points. On the other hand, Sibenik Jolly players took advantage of the break to regroup and have imposed their game again. With 10 minutes left in the game, they were up 54-39 and it was clear who the winner will be. Jedinstvo players were unable to mount a comeback as they continued to struggle on the offensive end. Sibenik Jolly players put in just enough effort to routinely close out the game for the final score 96-41.
For the winners, Marta Cakic (175-G-82) had 13 points, Bura added 11 while Veselovski finished the night with 10. Jedinstvo had only one player to reach double figures and that was Zivana Jankovic (174-G-83) with 12. Second best scorer was Jasmina Bigovic (174-G-79) with 8.

Sibenik: Marta Cakic 13, Bura 11, Veselovski 10
Jedinstvo: Zivana Jankovic 12, Jasmina Bigovic 8

Gospic rolls over Merkur on Vojko Herksl Cup - by Eurobasket News
Gospic - Merkur 77-57

Gospic managed to win the opening game against Merkur at Vojo Herksl Regional Cup. Current Croatian champions had an easy night, displaying defensive dominance. In the first quarter Gospic jumped to an early 7-0 lead. Merkur bounced back to cut the deficit to 1, but it was Gospic players who were in charge on the court. After initial 10 minutes, Gospic has already build 21-12 lead. In the second quarter, neither team had good offensive showing. However, Gospic played better defense which resulted with several mistakes by Merkur players. Also the guests were limited to only 8 points. Gospic players scored 18 during this quarter greabbing comfortable 39-20 lead at the half time. In the second half we saw pretty much even game, as Gospic players played just enough to maintain their 20-point lead. Merkur did not posses sufficient quality to mount a serious comeback. In the end, Gospic went on to record 77-57 win.
Ivana Jurcevic (174-G-81) led Gospic with 23 points, 7 three pointers. Jelena Ivezic (184-G-84) followed with 21, while Marija Vrsaljko (195-C-89) finished the night with 15 points. For the losing side, Matea Tavic (178-G-92) led the way with 16 points, while Nikya Hughes (191-F/C-85) had one point less. Richards was the only other player with double figures as she scored 10 points.
Gospic is set to play in the finals against the winner of the Sibenik Jolly and Jedinstvo Bijelo Polje match-up, while Merkur will play the looser for the third place.

Gospic: Ivana Jurcevic 23, Jelena Ivezic 21, Marija Vrsaljko 15
Merkur: Matea Tavic 16, Nikya Hughes 15, Richards 10

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  CYPRUS - Women  


Cyprus stay unbeaten with win over Mali - by Eurobasket News
Cyprus - Mali 73:47

Cyprus earned the fourth straight win at the Francophone Games in Beirut. They toppled Mali to stay on top of Pool A. Mali slipped at 1-3 record. Biljana Pesovic (180-G-83) paced balanced effort with 13 points.
Cyprus opened the game with aggressive defense. They held their opponents to just 10 points in the starting quarter and ensured a 7-point lead into the second period. The teams traded baskets throughout the second frame and the margin remained at 7-point mark at halftime. Cyprus controlled the tempo after the major break. They fired 20 points in the third term and boosted the lead at 14 points with ten minutes to go. Mali could not match the effort and had to take in the defeat.
Joanna Szott, Joaclyn Johnslynon and Masa Scelkic finished with 9 points each in the winning effort. Tirira Meiya had 16 points for Mali. Traore Natira (90) delivered 9 points in defeat.
Mali will next face Cote dIvoire, while Cyprus is scheduled to take on France.

Cyprus: Biljana Pesovic 13, Joanna Szott 9, Joaclyn Johnslynon 9, Masa Scelkic 9
Mali: Tirira Meiya 16, Traore Natira 9


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  CZECH REPUBLIC - Women  


Stats Leaders - Women


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  DENMARK - Women  


Standings - Dameligaen
Dameligaen Standings
 1. Virum 1-0 
 2. Falcon 1-0 
 3. Lemvig 1-0 
 4. Amager 0-0 
 5. Horsholm 0-0 
 6. Aabyhoj 0-0 
 7. SISU 0-1 
 8. Horsens 0-1 
 9. Vaerlose 0-1 


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  FINLAND - Women  


Standings - Women
D1 Standings
 1. Catz 1-0 
 2. PeKa 0-0 
 3. Huima 0-0 
 4. Espoo Team 0-0 
 5. FoA 0-0 
 6. S-Hameenmaa 0-0 
 7. Keravan 0-0 
 8. HoNsU 0-1 


Catz started strongly - by Esko Saarinen
Women started the league by one atch as last year's silverteam Catz (Lappenranta travelled to Jyvaskyla. Home-team HoNsU is young and weak against ne of big favorites in this season. So Catz played two quarters strongly ad then made the playing easy way. Catz won 52-77 (16-48). Especially second quarter was strong with 4-23 points. Catz has three high level players, Reetta Piipari started with 3 point shoot, then american Elisa Blue came in and Yelena Solovjeva (RUS) was all the time strong. Bue made 20 pointsand 5 rebounds, Piipari 18/3 and Solovjeva 15/8. Elena Reshetko ade 9/5 but was concentrated to assists, 4 times she assited to help scoring. HoNsU had two players in the same level with Catz. Salla Viitanen 13/1/ 3 ass. and new player Monet Johnson 19/12. Another american Danyelle Snelgro had 8/6 but new Finnish player Dionne Pounds had only one rebound.

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  FRANCE - Women  


France beat Tunisia in Beirut - by Eurobasket News
France - Tunisia 62:50
French team celebrated the third straight win at the Francophone Games in Lebanon. Earlier today they held off Tunisia to improve at 3-1 record in Pool A. Tunisia slipped at 2-2 in the meantime.
The African side got the better start. They piled up a 17:13 lead after the opening stanza. Thoraya Adisi (F-82) dominated under the boards and Tunisia were able to maintain the winning margin throughout the second quarter. They limited Les Bleus to 8 points in the period taking a 27:21 advantage at halftime. France finally adjusted offensively in the third quarter. They shifted the gear and unloaded 20 points to ensure a 41:41 tie into the fourth frame. The final period belonged to the European team. They held their opponents to 9 points and celebrated a confident victory at the end.
Eleonore Grossemy (184-F-92) fired 16 points to lead the way for France. Christelle Diallo (193-C-93) produced 13 points, while Akmouke netted 11 in the victory. Selma Mnasria (G-88) replied with 13 points for Tunisia. Rim Ganar (F-89) had 11 points in defeat.

France: Eleonore Grossemy 16, Christelle Diallo 13, Heline Akmouke 11
Tunisia: Selma Mnasria 13, Rim Ganar 11


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  HUNGARY - Women  


Standings - Women
A Standings
 1. MKB Eurol. 2-0 
 2. BSE 2-0 
 3. Szeged 1-0 
 4. ZTE 1-0 
 5. SEAT Lami 1-0 
 6. MiZo Pecs 1-0 
 7. Atomeromu 0-1 
 8. Vasas-Csata 0-1 
 9. Cegledi EKK 0-1 
 10. BEAC 0-1 
 11. Szolnok 0-2 
 12. Bajai NKK 0-2 


Stats Leaders - Women


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  IVORY COAST - Women  


Quebec prevail against Cote d'Ivoire - by Eurobasket News
Quebec - Cote d'Ivoire 65:60
Quebec claimed the initial win at the Francophone Games in Lebanon. They held off Cote d'Ivoire tonight. The victory allowed Quebec to leapfrog their opponents in the ladder. Both teams share 1-3 record. Quebec used a strong first half to build the decisive advantage. They were up by one after ten minutes of action. The North American team unloaded 27 points in the second period and piled up a 13-point halftime lead. Cote d'Ivoire tried to claw their way back into the contest. They cut the distance at 9 points with ten minutes remaining. The African team continued to mount the pressure. They won the final stanza but came up just short of the victory. Chantelle Sfamour delivered 18 points for Quebec. Audrey Latendresse (185-F-83, college: St.Bonaventure) contributed 13 points and 7 boards in the win. Kani Kouyate (90) replied with 18 points for Cote d'Ivoire. Renee Djedjemel finished with 11 points in the losing effort.

Quebec: Chantelle Sfamour 18, Audrey Latendresse 13, Stephanie Bergeron (168-G, college: Franklin Pierce) 8, Karine Bibeau (180-F-83) 8
Cote d'Ivoire: Kani Kouyate 18, Renee Djedjemel 11


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  LATVIA - Women  


Standings - LSBL
LSBL Standings
 1. RTU-Merks 1-0 
 2. Liepajas met. 0-0 
 3. Cesis 0-0 
 4. SK Riga 0-0 
 5. TTT Riga 0-0 
 6. DU/Swedbank 0-0 
 7. TTT Jun. 0-1 


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  MALI - Women  


Cyprus stay unbeaten with win over Mali - by Eurobasket News
Cyprus - Mali 73:47

Cyprus earned the fourth straight win at the Francophone Games in Beirut. They toppled Mali to stay on top of Pool A. Mali slipped at 1-3 record. Biljana Pesovic (180-G-83) paced balanced effort with 13 points.
Cyprus opened the game with aggressive defense. They held their opponents to just 10 points in the starting quarter and ensured a 7-point lead into the second period. The teams traded baskets throughout the second frame and the margin remained at 7-point mark at halftime. Cyprus controlled the tempo after the major break. They fired 20 points in the third term and boosted the lead at 14 points with ten minutes to go. Mali could not match the effort and had to take in the defeat.
Joanna Szott, Joaclyn Johnslynon and Masa Scelkic finished with 9 points each in the winning effort. Tirira Meiya had 16 points for Mali. Traore Natira (90) delivered 9 points in defeat.
Mali will next face Cote dIvoire, while Cyprus is scheduled to take on France.

Cyprus: Biljana Pesovic 13, Joanna Szott 9, Joaclyn Johnslynon 9, Masa Scelkic 9
Mali: Tirira Meiya 16, Traore Natira 9


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  MONTENEGRO - Women  


Sibenik Jolly overcomes Jedinstvo Bijelo Polje - by Eurobasket News
Sibenik Jolly JBS - Jedinstvo 69-41

Sibenik is the second finalist of the Vojko Herksl Regional Cup after rolling over Jedinstvo 69-41. They have booked a place in the finals and match against Gospic, who won its game against Merkur. Jedinstvo will have to settle for third place game.
Sibenik Jolly displayed great defensive skill as they did not allow Jedinstvo players to score more than 12 points in any quarter. Jedinstvo opened the game poorly, falling behind from the start. Sibenik Jolly took fool advantage of this limiting Jedinstvo to only 8 points and taking 21-8 lead after first quarter. Second period was a low scoring one as neither team could hit a shot. Also both teams made a lot of offensive mistakes which did not help them either. Still at the halftime Sibenik was up 32-18. After the break, Jedinstvo still struggled offensively scoring only 11 points. On the other hand, Sibenik Jolly players took advantage of the break to regroup and have imposed their game again. With 10 minutes left in the game, they were up 54-39 and it was clear who the winner will be. Jedinstvo players were unable to mount a comeback as they continued to struggle on the offensive end. Sibenik Jolly players put in just enough effort to routinely close out the game for the final score 96-41.
For the winners, Marta Cakic (175-G-82) had 13 points, Bura added 11 while Veselovski finished the night with 10. Jedinstvo had only one player to reach double figures and that was Zivana Jankovic (174-G-83) with 12. Second best scorer was Jasmina Bigovic (174-G-79) with 8.

Sibenik: Marta Cakic 13, Bura 11, Veselovski 10
Jedinstvo: Zivana Jankovic 12, Jasmina Bigovic 8

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  NCAA2 - Women  


WWU's Summers Granted Extra Year of Eligibility - by Sanjey Noriega
From: wwuvikings.com

BELLINGHAM, Wash. - Forward Jessica Summers (6'1''-C-86) has been granted an additional year of eligibility by the NCAA and will return to play on the W.Washington University women's basketball team for the 2009-10 season.

Summers, a graduate of Blaine High School, was granted the year of eligibility under a 'Season of Competition - Eligible' waiver. The additional year replaces the 2006-07 season in which she saw limited action.

'We are thrilled that Jessica has another season with us,' said Western coach Carmen Dolfo. 'She is not only a great player, but a very hard worker with a deep passion for the game.'

Summers averaged 12.4 points and team-high 7.9 rebounds last season for the Vikings. She earned second-team all-Great Northwest Athletic Conference honors and was named GNAC co-Newcomer of the Year after transferring from University of Idaho.

Summers is the second Viking to be granted an additional year of eligibility by the NCAA for the 2009-10 season. This spring, center Krystal Robinson was given a sixth year of eligibility after having two seasons cut short by knee injuries.


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  POLAND - Women  


Stats Leaders - PLKK


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  SERBIA - Women  


Radivoj Korac enjoys the tournament in Turkey - by Eurobasket News
Five teams opened the International tournament in Turkey at the end of September as Radivoj Korac battles with 4 Turksih teams.
On the last day of September Mersin outscored Serbian Radivoj Korac 64:59. The Serbian team opened the game with 12:11 and then lost the second 8-14. Mersin had 25:20 halftime advantage when both squads disappeared in the lockers. They both had offensive third period with 25-24 for Korac and mersin won the last stanza 15-14 as well as the game itself. Saziye Ivegin (182-F-82) posted 12 points for the winners, while Merve Aydin (174-G-94), Olimpia Scott and Barbara Turner had 9 each. Ivana Grubor (185-F/C-84) brought Serbian team 17 points and Snezana Colic nailed 13.
Tarsus Belediye overcame Radivoj Korac 89:83 on the first day of October. The Turkish side opened the game with the minimum 24:23 lead, while Serbian side enjoyed 3-point deficit at the halftime. In the third period the tempo had definitely slowed down , while Tarsus had 66:62 lead. Radivoj Korac tried hard to catch up with the opponents as Ivana Grubor closed to 74:73. The Turkish side however increased to 85:76 and later won 89:83 as a total. Arzu Akay (186-C-76) was unstoppable with 28 points and Kubra Siyahdemir nailed 23. Roneeka Hodges (180-G-82, college: Florida St.) nailed 12 points and Gamze Zeren had 10 points and 9 rebounds. Ivana Grubor ended up with 24 points for the Serbian team. Jovana Milovanovic (171-G-83, agency: Global Sports Plaza) scored 15 and Iva Musulin notched 12.

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  SLOVAKIA - Women  


Extraliga: Dobri Anjeli and MBK Ruzomberok stay perfect after 3 rounds - by Eurobasket News
Dobri Anjeli and MBK Ruzomberok are the only two unbeaten teams after 3 roundw of Slovakian Extraliga. Five games were played yesterday and it was 3-2 for the guests.
MBK Ruzomberok escaped against Whirpool in Poprad 45-44. Simona Podesvova (186-F-83) top-scored in victory with 18 points. Katarina Tetemondova (185-F-88) responded with 16 for the hosts.
Dobri Anjeli blasted Slovan in Bratislava 92-39. Lucia Kupcikova (184-F-84) and Katarina Hrickova (180-F-80) shined in this game with 26 points each. The hosts had only Milena Paulisincova (170-F) with double-digits in scoring, 10 pts.
BSS Kosice is another team who celebrated as a guest yesterday. It was in local derby against Cassovia Kosice 92-72. Lucia Laskova (187-F-80, agency: LBM Management) and Katarina Pindrochova (183-F-88) combined 39 pts in victory. Zuzana Fabianova (185-C-89) collected 16 points in loss.
Nitra celebrated 80-76 win against Presov mostly owing to Dagmar Chlebovcova (171-G-84), who drained 18 points. Risper drained 26 for Presov.
Roznava had an easy job against Banska Bystrica 85-61. Second quarter was the crucial one in this game (31-17). Timea Sujova (175-G-84) led the winners with 17 points. Nina Makkova (180-C-88) had 14 in defeat.

Standings - Women
Extraliga Standings
 1. MBK Ruzomb. 3-0 
 2. Dobri Anjeli 3-0 
 3. Poprad 2-1 
 4. Nitra 2-1 
 5. Basket Steel 2-1 
 6. Roznava 1-2 
 7. Presov 1-2 
 8. Cassovia K. 1-2 
 9. UMB B.B. 0-3 
 10. Slovan 0-3 


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  SLOVENIA - Women  


Gospic rolls over Merkur on Vojko Herksl Cup - by Eurobasket News
Gospic - Merkur 77-57

Gospic managed to win the opening game against Merkur at Vojo Herksl Regional Cup. Current Croatian champions had an easy night, displaying defensive dominance. In the first quarter Gospic jumped to an early 7-0 lead. Merkur bounced back to cut the deficit to 1, but it was Gospic players who were in charge on the court. After initial 10 minutes, Gospic has already build 21-12 lead. In the second quarter, neither team had good offensive showing. However, Gospic played better defense which resulted with several mistakes by Merkur players. Also the guests were limited to only 8 points. Gospic players scored 18 during this quarter greabbing comfortable 39-20 lead at the half time. In the second half we saw pretty much even game, as Gospic players played just enough to maintain their 20-point lead. Merkur did not posses sufficient quality to mount a serious comeback. In the end, Gospic went on to record 77-57 win.
Ivana Jurcevic (174-G-81) led Gospic with 23 points, 7 three pointers. Jelena Ivezic (184-G-84) followed with 21, while Marija Vrsaljko (195-C-89) finished the night with 15 points. For the losing side, Matea Tavic (178-G-92) led the way with 16 points, while Nikya Hughes (191-F/C-85) had one point less. Richards was the only other player with double figures as she scored 10 points.
Gospic is set to play in the finals against the winner of the Sibenik Jolly and Jedinstvo Bijelo Polje match-up, while Merkur will play the looser for the third place.

Gospic: Ivana Jurcevic 23, Jelena Ivezic 21, Marija Vrsaljko 15
Merkur: Matea Tavic 16, Nikya Hughes 15, Richards 10

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  SPAIN - Women  


Kerri Gardin in Cadi La Seu - by Eurobasket News
Cadi La Seu invited Kerri Gardin (186-F-84, college: Virginia Tech). The 25-year-old forward just completed the WNBA season with the Connecticut Sun. She averaged 5.5 points and 4.3 boards per game for the Sun. Last season Kerri Gardin played in Croatia. She tallied 13.3 points and 8.6 rebounds for Sibenik in Adriatic League. In Euroleague her stats came up to 14.6 points, 8.5 boards and 2.6 assists per appearance.


Linnea Liljestrand joins Estudiantes - by Eurobasket News
Estudiantes closed their roster for the upcoming season. The latest player to join the squad was Linnea Liljestrand (178-G-80). The 29-year-old guard from Sweden spent the last two season in Spain. She played for Promociones Santa Eulalia in 2007/08 season. Liljestrand averaged 8.4 points and 1.4 boards per game. Previous season Linnea Liljestrand moved to Olesa. Her stats read 6.5 points and 1.5 rebounds per game.


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  TUNISIA - Women  


France beat Tunisia in Beirut - by Eurobasket News
France - Tunisia 62:50
French team celebrated the third straight win at the Francophone Games in Lebanon. Earlier today they held off Tunisia to improve at 3-1 record in Pool A. Tunisia slipped at 2-2 in the meantime.
The African side got the better start. They piled up a 17:13 lead after the opening stanza. Thoraya Adisi (F-82) dominated under the boards and Tunisia were able to maintain the winning margin throughout the second quarter. They limited Les Bleus to 8 points in the period taking a 27:21 advantage at halftime. France finally adjusted offensively in the third quarter. They shifted the gear and unloaded 20 points to ensure a 41:41 tie into the fourth frame. The final period belonged to the European team. They held their opponents to 9 points and celebrated a confident victory at the end.
Eleonore Grossemy (184-F-92) fired 16 points to lead the way for France. Christelle Diallo (193-C-93) produced 13 points, while Akmouke netted 11 in the victory. Selma Mnasria (G-88) replied with 13 points for Tunisia. Rim Ganar (F-89) had 11 points in defeat.

France: Eleonore Grossemy 16, Christelle Diallo 13, Heline Akmouke 11
Tunisia: Selma Mnasria 13, Rim Ganar 11


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  TURKEY - Women  


Botas Cup - by Eurobasket News
Five teams opened the International tournament in Turkey at the end of September.
On September 29th Tarsus beat Ceynan 63:52 as Seda Erdogan (170-F-87, agency: 1x1 Sports, college: Dodge City CC) paced all the winners with 13 points. Arzu Akay (186-C-76) posted 12, while Gamze Zeren netted 10. Lauren Ervin responded with 20 points and 14 boards in the losing case.
In another game Mersin outscored Botas 63:57 as Saziye Ivegin (182-F-82) delivered 13 points for the winners. Brooke Reves (185-F-77, agency: Merit Sports, college: Kansas) finished the night with 14 points in defeat.
On the last day of September Mersin outscored Serbian Radivoj Korac 64:59. The Serbian team opened the game with 12:11 and then lost the second 8-14. Mersin had 25:20 halftime advantage when both squads disappeared in the lockers. They both had offensive third period with 25-24 for Korac and mersin won the last stanza 15-14 as well as the game itself. Saziye Ivegin posted 12 points for the winners, while Merve Aydin, Olimpia Scott and Barbara Turner had 9 each. Ivana Grubor brought Serbian team 17 points and Snezana Colic nailed 13.
Tarsus Belediye overcame Radivoj Korac 89:83 on the first day of October. The Turkish side opened the game with the minimum 24:23 lead, while Serbian side enjoyed 3-point deficit at the halftime. In the third period the tempo had definitely slowed down , while Tarsus had 66:62 lead. Radivoj Korac tried hard to catch up with the opponents as Ivana Grubor closed to 74:73. The Turkish side however increased to 85:76 and later won 89:83 as a total. Arzu Akay was unstoppable with 28 points and Kubra Siyahdemir nailed 23. Roneeka Hodges (180-G-82, college: Florida St.) nailed 12 points and Gamze Zeren had 10 points and 9 rebounds. Ivana Grubor ended up with 24 points for the Serbian team. Jovana Milovanovic scored 15 and Iva Musulin (170-G-84) notched 12.
Galatasaray meanwhile tested the newcomer Kocaeli in a friendly and beat them 69:46. Esra netted 20 points to lead all the winners. Leckova notched 13, while Vecerova and Yasemin Saylar had 8. Asli delivered 10 points for the new team of TBBL.


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  WNBA - Women  


Fever's 93-84 win evens Finals series - by Eurobasket News
The Tamika Catchings (6'1''-F-79, college: Tennessee)-Diana Taurasi (6'0''-G-82, college: Connecticut) matchup is at the heart of these WNBA finals. Give Game 2 to Catchings, on offense AND defense.

The Indiana star fell one rebound shy of the first triple-double in WNBA finals history and the Fever beat the Phoenix Mercury 93-84 on Thursday night to square the best-of-five series 1-1.

After scoring just eight points and fouling out in Game 1, Catchings had 19 points, 11 assists (tying a finals record) and nine rebounds to help the Fever steal home-court advantage in the series with the next two games in Indianapolis, beginning with Game 3 on Sunday.

Series can swing either way really quick, Taurasi said, and its swung in their favor pretty quick now.

The WNBA defensive player of the year for the third time, Catchings also harassed the league MVP Taurasi into a 7-for-22 shooting night. Taurasi finished with 20 points, going 2 of 10 on 3-pointers.

She almost had a triple double, huh? Taurasi said, then whistled in amazement. You knew she was going come out and have a great game after Game 1. Thats just the kind of player she is. We all knew that.

Catchings wasnt about to boast of getting the best of Taurasi.

Do not underestimate Diana Taurasi ever, Catchings said. For my job, its to play defense on D.T. (Taurasi). I give her props, and its a hard job. She is going to look at both these tapes and be ready for Game 3.

There hasnt been a triple-double in any WNBA game since 2005 and its happened only once in the playoffs. When Catchings, runner-up to Taurasi in the MVP voting, needed only two rebounds in the final six-plus minutes, it looked as if she would get there. But her ninth didnt come until there was just 28 seconds to play.

The cold-shooting Mercury were without supersub Penny Taylor most of the second half. The Aussie, who scored all 14 of her points in the first half, took an elbow from Indiana rookie Briann January (5'8''-G-87, college: Arizona St.) and left with a cut lip with 3:33 to play in the third quarter.

I havent talked to the doctors so I dont know exactly whats wrong, so I dont want to say something I dont know for sure, Phoenix coach Corey Gaines said. I know for sure shell play next game. I know Penny Taylor, shell play the next game, for sure, 100 percent.

January, a standout at nearby Arizona State, finished with 16 points on 5-of-7 shooting, 3 of 4 on 3-pointers.

The Mercury struggled on offense two nights after a 120-116 overtime victory in Game 1, the highest-scoring contest in WNBA history. Phoenix shot 39.7 percent for the game and was just 5 of 20 in the third quarter, when the Fever built a 17-point lead.

I thought we did tonight what we didnt do the other night, Indiana coach Lin Dunn said. We had a great defensive effort. The difference 84 and 120 points isIm not a math major, youll have to tell mebut its a significant amount of points.

Gaines, however, said he didnt see much of anything different in the Fever.

They played the same type of defense, we just missed shots, he said. We missed m ore shots and we tried to get to the basket and we missed those shots, too.

Catchings led six Indiana players in double figures. Ebony Hoffman also scored 16. Katie Douglas and Tammy Sutton-Brown each scored 14, and Jessica Davenport added 10.

Temeka Johnson had 14 for Phoenix. Pondexter shot 5 of 160 of 4 on 3s en route to 12 points. Tangela Smith also scored 12 for the Mercury.

The Fever, in their first WNBA finals, took control with a 12-2 run, going up 71-55 after Catchings made two free throws with 2 1/2 minutes left in the third quarter. Davenport scored the first five points of the run.

Indianas biggest lead was 77-60 on Hoffmans 7-footer with 5.6 seconds left in the third. Johnsons 3-pointer at the buzzer made it 77-63 entering the fourth.

A late 14-5 run cut the Fevers lead to 85-80 on Taurasis layup with 1:23 to play. But Sutton-Brown responded with a basket inside, then January and Douglas put the game away with free throws.

Courtesy of Yahoo (www.sports.yahoo.com)


Dream's Angel McCoughtry named WNBA Rookie of the Year - by Eurobasket News
Atlanta Dream forward Angel McCoughtry (6'1''-F-86, college: Louisville) was named the 2009 adidas Rookie of the Year, the WNBA announced today. McCoughtry received 30 votes from a national panel of sportswriters and broadcasters to earn the award.

'There was no doubt in my mind when I was scouting talent for the 2009 draft that Angel was a special player, and she proved that in her rookie season,' said Dream General Manager & Head Coach Marynell Meadors. 'There was a lot of competition for this award but she was by far the best. I'm so proud of her and this is only the beginning. I don't think she has really seen what she can do yet.'

McCoughtry, the No.1 overall pick in the 2009 WNBA Draft presented by adidas, topped the charts among all WNBA rookies in points (12.8) and steals (2.2) and ranked fifth in assists (2.1). She finished the season with two consecutive adidas Rookie of the Month honors. McCoughtry's 2.2 steals per game led the Dream and placed her in the top five among league leaders.

'Statistics only tell part of the story about Angel, even though her numbers were incredible,' said Dream President & COO Bill Bolen. 'Certain players just have the ability to take over a game, and Angel has that talent both offensively and defensively to will the team to victory. Her ability to step in as a key starter during our stretch run into the playoffs was remarkable for a rookie, and we are even more excited about what the 2010 season will bring for Angel in Atlanta.'

The 6'1' forward started her professional career by posting 15 points and seven rebounds in an 87-86 win over the Indiana Fever. One of her best games came in a 93-87 win over the San Antonio Silver Stars; McCoughtry posted a career-high 34 points, collected seven rebounds and dished out four assists. Another performance where McCoughtry's versatility stood out was a win late in the season against the Monarchs. She had a career-high 10 assists and added 26 points and five rebounds. McCoughtry scored double-digits in all but 10 games during her first professional season.

McCoughtry helped propel a team that finished with only four wins in 2008 to second place in the Eastern Conference this season. The Dream advanced to the 2009 WNBA Playoffs presented by adidas, the first postseason appearance in franchise history. The 14-game improvement is the second-best single-season turnaround in WNBA history.

McCoughtry was honored with the adidas Rookie of the Month award in July and August. In July, she averaged 10.2 points, 2.0 steals per game and was nearly perfect from the free throw line during that span (17-for-18). In her 10 games played in August, she averaged 17.3 points, 3.4 rebounds, 3.4 steals and 2.4 assists.

McCoughtry, the all-time leading scorer and rebounder at the University of Louisville, excelled on the court throughout her college career. She was the Big East Defensive Player of the Year as a senior and was Louisville's first three-time All-America selection.

In honor of being named the 2009 adidas Rookie of the Year, McCoughtry will receive $5,000 and a specially-designed trophy by Tiffany & Co.



Below are the complete results of the 2009 adidas Rookie of the Year voting, followed by a list of previous winners:



2009 adidas ROOKIE OF THE YEAR RESULTS

30 Angel McCoughtry Atlanta Dream

9 DeWanna Bonner Phoenix Mercury

2 Shavonte Zellous Detroit Shock



ROOKIE OF THE YEAR WINNERS

2009 Angel McCoughtry Atlanta Dream

2008 Candace Parker Los Angeles Sparks

2007 Armintie Price Chicago Sky

2006 Seimone Augustus Minnesota Lynx

2005 Temeka Johnson Washington Mystics

2004 Diana Taurasi Phoenix Mercury

2003 Cheryl Ford Detroit Shock

2002 Tamika Catchings Indiana Fever

2001 Jackie Stiles Portland Fire

2000 Betty Lennox Minnesota Lynx

1999 Chamique Holdsclaw Washington Mystics
1998 Tracy Reid Charlotte Sting

Courtesy of www.oursportscentral.com


Atlanta's Meadors named WNBA Coach of the Year - by Eurobasket News
Marynell Meadors was honored Thursday as the WNBA coach of the year after leading the Atlanta Dream to a remarkable turnaround in the franchise's second season.

With Meadors serving as the team's general manager and coach, Atlanta went from 4-30 in its expansion year in 2008 to 18-16 this season. Atlanta finished second in the Eastern Conference to earn a playoff berth.

'This season was just awesome. I loved coaching this team,' she said. 'They came in from day one and played as hard as they could play, and I thought 'Wow, this is going to be something special,' and it certainly was.'

Meadors received 30 votes from a national panel of writers and broadcasters. Indiana's Lin Dunn was a distant second with six votes. Corey Gaines of Phoenix received four.

Meadors was presented the award at a news conference Thursday prior to Game 2 of the WNBA Finals between Phoenix and Indiana.

It was a day of honors for Atlanta. Earlier, Dream forward Angel McGaughtry was named rookie of the year.

Atlanta's 14-win turnaround is the second-best in WNBA history, behind the 2003 Detroit Shock, went from 9-23 to 25-9.

To accomplish it, Meadors overhauled the roster. Only four players remained from the expansion season.

'She certainly did a great job of assembling really first-class talent,' WNBA president Donna Orender said in presenting the award.

The Dream traded for the rights to Chamique Holdsclaw, then persuaded her to return to the WNBA. Atlanta acquired Sancho Lyttle from the dispersal draft of the defunct Houston franchise, and signed Michelle Snow.

The team selected McCoughtry with the No. 1 pick, then picked Shalee Lehning later in the draft.

'We brought in 13 players that first year and we had eight new ones this past season,' Meadors said. 'They just worked hard and you saw what they did.'

Meadors has coached for 35 years, including 11 in the WNBA. She was head coach and general manager of the Charlotte Sting and director of scouting for the Miami Sol. Meadors went to Atlanta in 2007 after three years as an assistant coach for the Washington Mystics.

'Atlanta has been a great, great city to be in,' Meadors said. 'They have wanted a WNBA team ever since the 1996 Olympics were there. Now they got their wish and I'll tell you what, they really support our players.'

Courtesy of www.accessnorthga.com