EUROBASKET NEWS REPORT - 7/28/2009

Copyright © 1997-2009 Eurobasket
WARNING:
Do not copy, redistribute, publish or otherwise exploit information that you download from the site!
Do not encumber, license, modify, publish, sell, transfer or transmit, or in any way exploit, any of the
content of the report, nor will you attempt to do so.
More info:www.eurobasket.com


Men News

*****************************************************
  AFRICAN CHAMPIONSHIPS   


Libya 2009 Afrobasket: NBBF shortlists 16 players for Libya - by Olusegun Ikuesan
After a grueling camping exercise in the United States of America the coaching crew of the senior men national team led by John Harding Lucas-II have short listed twelve players from the USA camp and four from the camp conducted in Kaduna, Nigeria the team assistant coach, Sani Ahmed.

The twelve foreign-based players includes, Joshua Akognon, Michael Umeh, Michael Efevberha, Ebikekeme Ere, Jayson Obazuaye, Gabe Muoneke, Ejike Ugbaja, Aloysius Anagonye, Ayodeji Akindele, Benson Egemonye, Akinlolu Akingbala and Chamberlain Oguchi while the four home-based players are former team captain, Abdulrahman Mohammed of Nigeria Customs basketball club, Abubakar Usman of Niger Potters, Stanley Gumut of Niger Potters and Ibrahim Yusuf of Kano Pillars basketball club.

The president of the NBBF, Tijjani Umar says all sixteen players will be accorded equal chance of vying for a place in the final 12-man list that will fly the country flag in Libya.

The team is expected to have its final work-out in Abuja on Wednesday (July 29).

Imeh Udoka, formerly of the San Antonio Spurs who is now a free agent is waiting in the wings while he sorts out his next career move, meanwhile the team will now be hosted to a farewell dinner in Abuja on Friday and fly out to Libya at the weekend.

Nigeria is in Group-A alongside host, Libya, Cote dIvoire and South Africa for her first round matches.

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


Ingles joins top Spanish league - by James Hoff
South Australian Joe Ingles (203-G/F-87, agency: Priority Sports) is reportedly due to sign with Spanish-ACB club CB Granada within the next week, a team laden with international talent. Ingles failed to be drafted in the recent 2009 NBA draft, though played for the Golden State Warriors in Summer league posting modest statistics. Ingles has a British passport and therefore will not be considered a full import, unlike recent CAI Zaragoza signing David Barlow (205-F-83, college: Metro St.). Ingles will be hoping for another crack at the NBA next season provided his European venture is successful.

Ingles' Australian team, the Melbourne-based Melbourne South Dragons won the NBL championship last year, however pulled out of the 'reformed' Eight team competition for the upcoming season for a number of reasons. Fellow ex-NBL players Barlow, Alex Loughton (205-F/C-83, agency: Octagon, college: ODU) and Matthew Knight (204-F/C-85, college: Loyola Marymount) have all recently taken up contracts in European leagues.

*****************************************************
  AUSTRIA   


Belgium post first win Strasbourg - by Eurobasket News
Belgium - Austria 81:51

Belgium recorded the first win at the international tournament in Strasbourg. They defeated Austria in the third round to improve at 1-2 record worth the third overall position. Austria lost the third straight game and finished the competition in the fourth position.
Belgium jumped to a 10:7 lead after five minutes of action. But Austria leveled the game and tied the score at 22 after ten minutes. The teams kept it close throughout the second stanza. Belgian team eked out a 36:35 lead at halftime. But the start of the second half became decisive in this one. Belgium unleashed a 14:2 run to take over. They raced to a 22-point lead holding Austria to just 6 points in the third quarter. Austria scored just 10 points in the fourth frame allowing Belgium to cruise to the victory.
Yannick Driesen (215-C-88) knocked down 16 points and grabbed 7 boards for Belgium. Sam Van Rossom (188-G-86) added 13 points in the victory. Stjepan Stazic (198-G-78, agency: World Sport Agency) answered with 14 points and 6 boards for Austria. Jason Detrick (198-G-80, agency: BrezoPro, college: Oklahoma) netted 11 points in defeat.

Belgium: Yannick Driesen 16, Sam Van Rossom 13, Piet De Bel (208-C-80) 11
Austria: Stjepan Stazic 14, Jason Detrick 11


Belgium clinch second spot in Group D in Sarajevo - by Eurobasket News
Belgium U18 - Austria U18 70:61

Maarten Rademakers (205-C-91) and Pierre-Antoine Gillet (200-G-91) scored 16 points each to lead Belgium to the third win at the U18 European Championship in Division B. The victory allowed Belgium to occupy the second position in Group D as they advanced into the Qualifying Round. Austria finished the preliminary round at 1-3 record in the fourth spot. They will play in the classification round for the 9th-16th place.
Anton Maresch (191-G-91) gave Austria a 2:0 lead at the start of the game but Belgium quickly stole it. Maarten Rademakers, Pierre-Antoine Gillet and Deroover propelled the Belgian team to an 18:11 advantage after ten minutes of action. Pocksteiner and Saukel drained back-to-back triples early in the second quarter as Austria regained the advantage. The lead changed hands for several times afterwards as Austria took a 31:29 advantage into halftime. The teams kept it extra close throughout the third stanza with Belgium eking out a 50:48 lead after thirty minutes. Desiron, Donkor and Steinbach made it 55:48 for Belgium less than two minutes into the fourth term. The gap soon grew to 11 points and Belgium eventually escaped with a difficult win.
Yannick Moray (198-F-91, agency: LBM Management) knocked down 12 points for the winning team. Carlos Novas Mateo (197-F-92) answered with 18 points for Austria. Anton Maresch had 8 points in defeat.

Belgium U18: Maarten Rademakers 16, Pierre-Antoine Gillet 16, Yannick Moray 12
Austria U18: Carlos Novas Mateo 18, Anton Maresch 8


*****************************************************
  BELARUS   


Laerke notches 34 for the Danish win - by Eurobasket News
Denmark U18-Belarus U18 81:71


Thomas Laerke (193-F-91) erupted with 34 points for the Danish team as they rolled over Belarus in the last game of the Preliminary Round. Denmark U18 registered 81:71 victory to leave Belarus winless.
It was Belarus to control the beginning of the game and finish the quarter at 22:18. Uladzimir Krysevich (208-C-91) scored for 30:24 and Vitali Liutych (197-G-92) posted 11 in a row for his team to remain in front. At first Thomas Laerke closed the second period for 43:38 and then Vitali Liutych nailed three for 46:38. The third period was successful for the Danish squad that won it 25-14. Jonathan Gilling (200-F-91) brought his team 63:57 after three quarters. Lien-Iversen made the double-digit lead at 67:57 and Thomas Laerke scored for 74:60. Belarus tried to recover but failed with 14-18 loss in the last quarter. Vitali Liutych made a dunk with a buzzer for the final 81:71 on the board.
Jonathan Gilling followed Thomas Laerke with 19 points and Bak added 9 for the winners. Uladzimir Krysevich collected 20 points and 15 rebounds in defeat as Belarus dropped at 0-5. Vitali Liutych posted 17, while Maksim Dabravolski (195-G-91) scored 11 points. Both teams will play in the Classification Round that will start on July 29th.

Denmark U18: Thomas Laerke 34, Jonathan Gilling 19, Bak 9
Belarus U18: Uladzimir Krysevich 20+15 rebs, Vitali Liutych 17, Maksim Dabravolski 11


Ukraine and Belarus played three friendlies - by Eurobasket News
Ukraine and Belarus played three games between each other over the last few days. It was a good preparation for the upcoming tournament for both teams.
In the first game Ukraine overcame Belarus 86:83 as both teams showed good effort and different styles of the game. In the second game Belarus bounced with 84:67 victory. Belarus on the opening quarter 15-11 and increased the lead after 23-21 in the second quarter. Ukraine stayed tough with 17-17 in the third frame, however failed in the last one with 18-29. Dzianis Korshuk (202-C/F-78, agency: Agency No 10) top-scored for the winners with 16 points and Alexander Kudrautsau (190-G-80, agency: AB Agency) posted 13. Dmitri Kuzmin (197-G-75) and Aliaksandr Pustahvar (200-G/F-85) netted 11 each, while Pavel Ulyanko (204-F/C-79) and Arseni Kuchinsky (202-F-79, college: Fordham) delivered 8 apiece. In the third game Ukraine won 77:75 as the teams finished the three friendly clashes.


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


Belgium clinch second spot in Group D in Sarajevo - by Eurobasket News
Belgium U18 - Austria U18 70:61

Maarten Rademakers (205-C-91) and Pierre-Antoine Gillet (200-G-91) scored 16 points each to lead Belgium to the third win at the U18 European Championship in Division B. The victory allowed Belgium to occupy the second position in Group D as they advanced into the Qualifying Round. Austria finished the preliminary round at 1-3 record in the fourth spot. They will play in the classification round for the 9th-16th place.
Anton Maresch (191-G-91) gave Austria a 2:0 lead at the start of the game but Belgium quickly stole it. Maarten Rademakers, Pierre-Antoine Gillet and Deroover propelled the Belgian team to an 18:11 advantage after ten minutes of action. Pocksteiner and Saukel drained back-to-back triples early in the second quarter as Austria regained the advantage. The lead changed hands for several times afterwards as Austria took a 31:29 advantage into halftime. The teams kept it extra close throughout the third stanza with Belgium eking out a 50:48 lead after thirty minutes. Desiron, Donkor and Steinbach made it 55:48 for Belgium less than two minutes into the fourth term. The gap soon grew to 11 points and Belgium eventually escaped with a difficult win.
Yannick Moray (198-F-91, agency: LBM Management) knocked down 12 points for the winning team. Carlos Novas Mateo (197-F-92) answered with 18 points for Austria. Anton Maresch had 8 points in defeat.

Belgium U18: Maarten Rademakers 16, Pierre-Antoine Gillet 16, Yannick Moray 12
Austria U18: Carlos Novas Mateo 18, Anton Maresch 8


Belgium post first win Strasbourg - by Eurobasket News
Belgium - Austria 81:51

Belgium recorded the first win at the international tournament in Strasbourg. They defeated Austria in the third round to improve at 1-2 record worth the third overall position. Austria lost the third straight game and finished the competition in the fourth position.
Belgium jumped to a 10:7 lead after five minutes of action. But Austria leveled the game and tied the score at 22 after ten minutes. The teams kept it close throughout the second stanza. Belgian team eked out a 36:35 lead at halftime. But the start of the second half became decisive in this one. Belgium unleashed a 14:2 run to take over. They raced to a 22-point lead holding Austria to just 6 points in the third quarter. Austria scored just 10 points in the fourth frame allowing Belgium to cruise to the victory.
Yannick Driesen (215-C-88) knocked down 16 points and grabbed 7 boards for Belgium. Sam Van Rossom (188-G-86) added 13 points in the victory. Stjepan Stazic (198-G-78, agency: World Sport Agency) answered with 14 points and 6 boards for Austria. Jason Detrick (198-G-80, agency: BrezoPro, college: Oklahoma) netted 11 points in defeat.

Belgium: Yannick Driesen 16, Sam Van Rossom 13, Piet De Bel (208-C-80) 11
Austria: Stjepan Stazic 14, Jason Detrick 11


Verviers Transfer News - by Peter Buyse
VOO Verviers-Pepinster added American guard Anthony Hilliard (193-G/F-86) to its roster for the 2009-2010 season.
Hilliard averaged 22.9 ppg and 11.0 rpg during his senior year at Elizabeth City State University and earned CIAA Player of the Year for the second time in a row.
He also earned Div 2 All American honors this past season. Hilliard led the CIAA in scoring and rebounding the past 2 seasons.
In 2007 he was voted CIAA tournament MVP when his team won its first Championship in 26 years.
He averaged double doubles in scoring and rebounding during his last 3 years in college.


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


Tomislav Ramljak moves to Zrinjski, Mladen Gligora extends his stay - by Eurobasket News
Zrinjski Mostar has recently singed a contract with 24-year old Tomislav Ramljak (203-F/C-85, agency: Court Side). Ramljak is the third signing for Zrinjski after the club has already brought in Luka Klarica (190-G-89) and Marko Lovric (183-G-88). Also Zrinjski has offered an extension to Mladen Gligora (204-C/F-82, agency: Court Side), who played for the club previous season. Now, next task for them is to try to keep Josip Sesar (197-G/F-78, agency: Court Side) who last year signed a four-year deal with the club, but could soon be on his way out since he has asked for the transfer. Reportedly Sesar is currently owned few installments from last season so the club is hoping to be able to raise the funds and keep the experienced player for next season. Zrinjski's Management has had busy summer so far as they are trying to build a squad which will be competitive in the Bosnian League next season and which will try to improve on the results from last season. Zrinjski missed the playoff last season, as they finished on 5th place with 5 wins and 9 losses.
Tomislav Ramljak started his career with Posusje junior team, while he signed his first professional contract with BC Siroki in 2002. In 5 seasons with Siroki, Ramljak has won two National Titles in 2003 and 2004 as well as National Cup in 2004. In 2007 Ramljak moved to back to the team where he started from, signing a deal with BC Posusje. Last season he moved to Croatia and signed with Alkar Sinj where in 27 league games he averaged 10.7 points and 7.8 rebounds per game.
Mladen Gligora is a product of BC Zadar youth system. He has also played for several clubs around Europe including Setchem 1971 in Germany, BC Posusje, Zagroje, Siroki and Cedevita. With Siroki he has won National Cup in 2006. Last season he moved to BC Zrinjski.

Bosnia and Herzegovina U18 sent Hungary U18 out of the Qualifying Round - by Eurobasket News
Bosnia and Herzegovina U18-Hungary U18 75:72

Bosnia and Herzegovina sent Hungary out of the Qualifying Round at the U18 European Championship. The home side started strong to finish with 75:72 victory.
Janos Eilingsfeld (198-F/C-91, agency: Laszlo Vinko Services) gave Hungary the first lead as his team needed the victory as well. The hosts of the Championship replied for 15:10 midway through their 12-0 run. Demic closed the first period at 28:15. In the second period Hungary played better and bounced back to cut the gap. Biro made it 39:29 and Bajalinov scored for 45:40. Nikola Gajic (195-G-91) made a lay-up for 47:40 at the halftime. Hungary continued to push the tempo and catch up with the opponents. Zsolt Lakosa (190-G-91) was the last to score in the third frame for 62:59. It was him from the perimeter for 67:65 as he scored 9 points in a row for his team. Bosnia however did not allow to take them over and won the game 75:72. Buza made the final score to remain with his team undefeated.
Nikola Gajic paced all the winners with 17 points for 5-0 record. Demic nailed 15, while Rusmir Grosic (204-F-91) added 13. Janos Eilingsfeld erupted with 24 points and 15 rebounds in defeat, while Zsolt Lakosa scored 23.

Bosnia and Herzegovina U18: Nikola Gajic 17, Demic 15, Rusmir Grosic 13
Hungary U18: Janos Eilingsfeld 24+15 rebs, Zsolt Lakosa 23

*****************************************************
  BRAZIL   


Marquinhos Vinicius returns to Italian Montegranaro - by Eurobasket News
Premiata Montegranaro is set to bring back a familiar face to the squad. They have recently signed one-year deal with Marquinhos Vinicius (207-F-84), who has already played for the club in the 2004-2005 season. 25-year old guard is delighted to be able to come back to the Italian squad as he is looking forward to getting another chance to play in Europe. Last season, he was a member of Brazilian team Pinheros. Montegranaro finished 12th last season with the score of 12 wins and 18 losses. They will be looking to try and improve on the results achieved last season and they see Marquinho as valuable addition. Since the player is already familiar with Italian league it is expected that he will not have troubles with adapting to the league and will be able to help the team right away.
Marquinhos Vinicius played for Scavolini junior team and in 2002 he was loaned to Brazilian Vasco da Gama. In 2003 he played for Chorintians Sao Paolo where he averaged 15.6 ppg and 3.9 rpg. Following season, he returned to Scavolini but immediately loaned to Montegranarao which played in Italian 2nd league. That season, Marquinho averaged 14.5 ppg and 9.0 rpg. In 2005 he went back for Brazil where he signed with Objectivo Sao Carlos with whom he averaged 19.5 ppg. Following two seasons, Marquinho tried to make mark in the NBA, signing with New Orleans Hornets, but he never managed to crack the rotation. Last season, he played for Pinherios Sao Paolo where he averaged 22.8 ppg and 5.5 rpg in 33 games.

Latinbasket.com All-Brazilian League Awards 2009 - by Eurobasket
#s#
MachadoMachado
Machado
SilvaSilva
Silva
AraujoAraujo
Araujo
SucatzkySucatzky
Sucatzky
dos Santosdos Santos
dos Santos
#e#6
Player of the Year: Marcelinho Machado (199-F/G-75) of Flamengo
Guard of the Year: Valtinho Silva (187-G-77) of Universo/BRB
Forward of the Year: Marcelinho Machado (199-F/G-75) of Flamengo
Center of the Year: Baby Araujo (211-C-80) of Flamengo
Import Player of the Year: Facundo Sucatzky (176-G-72) of Pitagoras/Minas
Domestic Player of the Year: Marcelinho Machado (199-F/G-75) of Flamengo
Defensive Player of the Year: Shilton dos Santos (198-F/C-82) of Joinville
Coach of the Year: Paulo Teixeira Sampaio of Flamengo

1st Team
PG: Valtinho Silva (187-G-77) of Universo/BRB
PG: Facundo Sucatzky (176-G-72) of Pitagoras/Minas
SF: Marcelinho Machado (199-F/G-75) of Flamengo
PF: Shilton dos Santos (198-F/C-82) of Joinville
C: Baby Araujo (211-C-80) of Flamengo

2nd Team
PG: Larry Taylor (186-G-80) of GRSA/Bauru
SG: Duda Machado (195-G-82) of Flamengo
F: Alexandre Nascimento (202-F-83) of Pinheiros
PF: Jefferson Antonio (207-F/C-83) of Flamengo
C/F: Murilo da Rosa (210-C/F-83) of Pitagoras/Minas

Honorable Mention
Fernando Penna (189-G-83) of Paulistano/Amil
Arthur Luiz Belchior (200-G/F-82) of Universo/BRB
Joseph Shipp (197-F-81) of Pitagoras/Minas
Shamell Stallworth (197-F-80) of Winner/Limeira
Marquinhos Vinicius (207-F-84) of Pinheiros
Nezinho dos Santos (186-G-81) of Winner/Limeira
Andre Luiz Manteiguinha (192-G-81) of Joinville
Andre Stefanelli (196-F/G-84) of Paulistano/Amil
Arlindo Neto (188-G-86) of Lupo/Araraquara
Jefferson Sobral (203-F-80) of Joinville
Rogerio Klafke (201-F-71) of Vivo/Franca
Amiel Morejon (202-F-76) of CETAF/Garoto
Ricardo Giannecchini (184-G-81) of Conti/Amea/Assis
Guilherme Teichmann (204-F/C-83) of Winner/Limeira

All-Domestic Players Team
PG: Valtinho Silva (187-G-77) of Universo/BRB
SG: Duda Machado (195-G-82) of Flamengo
SF: Marcelinho Machado (199-F/G-75) of Flamengo
PF: Shilton dos Santos (198-F/C-82) of Joinville
C: Baby Araujo (211-C-80) of Flamengo

All-Imports Team
PG: Facundo Sucatzky (176-G-72) of Pitagoras/Minas
PG: Larry Taylor (186-G-80) of GRSA/Bauru
SF: Joseph Shipp (197-F-81) of Pitagoras/Minas
SF: Shamell Stallworth (197-F-80) of Winner/Limeira
F: Antwine Williams (192-F-75) of Joinville

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


Julian Radionov signs with Chernomorets Burgas - by Eurobasket News
30-year old point guard, Julian Radionov (188-G-79) has agreed a deal with Chernomorets Burgas. He is the first reinforcement for the club, which hopes to achieve respectable position within the NBL next season. Radionov is returning to the city he was born in and he is glad he will have the chance to represent the team from his hometown. Now the team's management will have to continue with finding appropriate replacements for the players which have departed the squad. Chernomorec has managed to gain promotion to NBL and they will need to strengthen the squad in order to secure the 1st league status next season.
Julian Radionov started his career with Spartak Pleven but has played for host of clubs in Bulgaria throughout his career. Among teams he played for are Cherno More, Akademik Sofia, Lukoil Akademik and Levski. He has won several trophies in his career including 3 Bulgarian Cups he has won in 2000 with Chenro More and in 2002 and 2004 with Lukoil Akademik. With Lukoil, Radoinov has also won 3 consecutive National titles from 2003-2005. Last season, Radoinov started with BC Levski but in October of 2008 he moved to Cherno More. In 28 league games, he averaged 5.8 ppg and 1.8 rpg while shooting 55.4% for two. He has helped his team, make it to the Playoff Finals where they lost to Lukoil Akademik. Radoinov was also a member of Bulgarian National Team from 1999-2008. He participated at European Championship in Belgrade in 2005. He was also member of National Team which participated in qualifications for Eurobasket 2009 but did not enter into the game.

Lithuania thump Bulgaria at U18 European Championship - by Eurobasket News
Lithuania U18 - Bulgaria U18 91:40

Lithuania extended their unbeaten run at the U18 European Championship in France. The Baltic team posted the fourth straight victory at the tournament today. They outclassed Bulgaria to open the Qualifying Round action. Lithuania thus improved at 3-0 record in Group F, while Bulgaria fell at 0-3.
Lithuania shocked Bulgaria early in the game going on a 16:3 run. Lithuania rolled to a 21:11 lead at the first break. Saulius Kulvietis (204-F-91) scored quick five points for Lithuania in the second period boosting the lead at 14 points. A Marius Linartas team capped the half with 9 straight points to enjoy a 41:23 lead. Bulgaria looked hapless in the second half as Lithuania continued their onslaught. They ballooned the gap to as many as 38 points heading into the fourth term. The Lithuanian team cruised to the victory at the end.
Saulius Kulvietis knocked down 18 points to pace Lithuania. Osvaldas Matulionis (199-F-91) added 16 points in the win. Darin Ivanov (181-G-91) responded with 8 points for Bulgaria. Hristo Gospodinov (199-F-92, agency: Interperformances) and Emil Binev (198-F-91) had 6 points each in the losing effort.

Lithuania U18: Saulius Kulvietis 18, Osvaldas Matulionis 16, Ovidijus Varanauskas (186-G-91) 14
Bulgaria U18: Darin Ivanov 8, Hristo Gospodinov 6, Emil Binev 6


Yulian Radionov: There is no deal with Chernomorets - by Vladi Lazarova
'There is no deal between me and the club of Chernomorets. I didn't sign with them and all the informations, that I will play there are untrue', said Julian Radionov (188-G-79). 187 cm tall point guard is preparing for the new season with individual practices in his home town - Burgas. Julian has no idea where he will continue his career from October and for now is trying to have a good time with his family and to enjoy the summer close to the seaside.

30-years old former playmaker of Bulgarian National team finished 2008/2009 with a silver medal in NBL. With Evroins Cherno more Radionov lost the final battle for the title against Lukoil Akademik with 1-3 in playoffs. His contract with The Sailors expired in June and its not clear how big budget Cherno more will have for 2009/2010 season and how many of the players, who were in the roster last year will remain in Varna.
Radionov is former player of Lukoil Akademik (2001-2005). He made his first big steps in professional basketball in Cherno more (1999-2001) winning the title and the cup. Lukoil became his golden period with a plenty of triumphs in Bulgaria, FIBA South Conference, FIBA Europe -finals, etc. He worked there with a solid company of head coaches: Petko Marinov, Slobodan Nikolic, Konstantin Papazov. Last summer Radionov was among the players, who Pini Gershon choose to use in Eurobasket 2009 qualifications. This summer Julian didn't make it in the preliminary roster of 18 players, who already started preparation for Eurobasket 2009. Gershon decided to trust again to American playmaker Ibrahim Jaaber (187-G-84, college: Pennsylvania), Andre Owens (192-G-80, college: Houston), or Earl Rowland (188-G-83, college: St.Mary's, CA), plus Bozhidar Avramov (196-G-90, agency: Interperformances) and Asen Velikov (188-G-86).





Andre Owens and Earl Jerrod Rowland the new Bulgarians - by Vladi Lazarova
Two new American players are expecting for their Bulgarian passports Andre Owens (192-G-80, college: Houston) and Earl Rowland (188-G-83, college: St.Mary's, CA). Both are approved and will get their documents till the end of July, or the beginning of August. Owens and Rowland are already in Sofia to prepare with Bulgarian National team for Eurobasket 2009 in Poland (7-20 September). Bulgaria is in Group D in Wroclaw with Poland, Turkey and Lithuania.

First and most desirable for Bulgaria option for PG position Ibrahim Jaaber (187-G-84, college: Pennsylvania) has problems and will probably miss the preparation for Eurobasket. Between Owens and Rowland, Pini Gershon will choose the best and most suitable option for the team. Both are great players, everybody likes them and it will be a hard decision. Owens and Rowland know one of them will be cut, but they are demonstrating a high level professional manners.

According to FIBA, Bulgaria can use only one foreign player with passport at Eurobasket 2009 in Poland. We decide this guy to be exactly our point guard. Jaaber made a fantastic performance last summer in qualification tournament. Bulgarian fans adore him, Bulgarian National team players still hope he can come and play, Pini Gershon and his crew respect Ibby and use every right moment to thank him.





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


Andrija Zizic signs with Bamberg - by Eurobasket News
Bamberg continues with bringing in reinforcements for the next season. After recently bringing back Casey Jacobsen (198-G/F-81, agency: Octagon, college: Stanford), the Germans has signed Andrija Zizic (207-F/C-80, agency: FCM). Croatian center is coming to Germany from Turkey, where he has played for Galatasaray. Last season, he signed two-year deal with Turkish team, but after a single injury he was given the green light to search for new team. Bamberg was quickest one to react grabbing the Croatian International which will be a quality addition. Bamberg won the German title two seasons ago, while last season they were stopped in Playoff Semifinals after loosing to eventual champions Oldenburg 3-2. Now they are hoping that with Zizic and Jacobsen in their squad, along with the players like Suput and Okulaya, they will be able to compete for the title next season again.
Andrija Zizic possesses a wealth of experience after playing for several European powerhouses in his career and winning few trophies. He started basketball career with Split and later moved to Cibona Zagreb where he established himself as on of the best centers in Europe. With Cibona he has won two National Titles in 2003 and 2004. After averaging 14.5 ppg and 7.8 rpg in 10 Euroleague games for Cibona, Zizic was signed by BC Barcelona in January of 2005. In 17 ACB League games, Zizic averaged 7.8 ppg and 3.4 rpg. In 2006 he moved to Olympiacos where he spent next two seasons and established himself as important team player. During season 2006-2007, he played in 22 Eruoleague games for Olympiacos and averaged 12.2 ppg and 5.3 rpg. In 2007 Zizic signed with Panathanaikos with whom he has won the double in 2008. That season, he played in 24 league games and averaged 6.7 ppg and 3.2 rpg. Last season, Zizic moved to Galatasaray, but injuries have hampered his season. He appeared in only 11 League games, posting averages of 8.9 ppg and 4.3 rpg.

Croatia still undefeated in France - by Eurobasket News
Croatia U18 - Slovenia U18 90:84

Croatian U18 team celebrated the fourth consecutive win in France. They opened the Qualifying Round of the European Championship with victory over Slovenia. Croatia improved at 3-0 record, while Slovenia fell at 1-2 in Group E.
Slovenia got to a brave start taking a 10:4 lead. Jakob Cebasek (198-G/F-91) helped Slovenia to a 10-point cushion late in the opening stanza. Jakob Cebasek, Span and Buda made it 30:15 at the end of the first frame. Croatia came back from slumber at the start of the second frame. They unloaded eight points in a row to cut the margin. Dragan Sekelja (210-C-91) and Dino Jakolis (198-G-91) dragged Croatia within 2 late in the half. Slovenia hung on to take a 45:42 advantage into halftime. Dragan Sekelja and Dino Jakolis put Croatia in front early in the third quarter. The Croats raised the tempo and finished the third stanza up by 4 points. Dino Jakolis and Toni Prostran (183-G-91) stretched the gap to 11 points with under 4 minutes to go. Horvat connected twice from beyond the arc to trim the deficit. He followed with two free throws to cut the margin to just 3 points with just over a minute left in regulation. But Toni Prostran scored 9 freebies in the dying seconds to gain the victory for Croatia.
Dino Jakolis and Dragan Sekelja scored 20 points apiece for Croatia. Matteo Juricic (191-G-91) had 18 points, 6 boards and 4 assists in the win. Sven Malus (194-F-91) and Jakob Cebasek knocked down 22 points each for Slovenia.

Croatia U18: Dino Jakolis 20, Dragan Sekelja 20, Matteo Juricic 18
Slovenia U18: Sven Malus 22, Jakob Cebasek 22


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


France win tournament in Strasbourg - by Eurobasket News
France - Czech Republic 84:66

France claimed the top spot at the international tournament in Strasbourg. They clinched the third straight win to finish the contest undefeated. Les Bleus outgunned Czech Republic yesterday overcoming a slow start.
Both teams entered the game with perfect record and fought for the top spot. The hosts jumped to a narrow 9:7 lead midway through the opening frame. But Czech Republic spurred in front to win the first quarter 21:19. But France regained control pretty fast. They went on a 15:2 rally at the start of the second stanza to build a comfortable advantage. The French team arrived at halftime leading by 12 points. They maintained the advantage well enough to enter the fourth quarter up by the same 12 points. Czech Republic tipped off the fourth stanza with a 7:1 rally to cut the distance. France however responded with an 18:6 run to pull away with a confident success at the end.
Nicolas Batum (201-F-88) knocked down 15 points to pace France. Boris Diaw (203-F/C-82) added 13 points, while Florent Pietrus (202-F-81, agency: Octagon) had 12 points for the winners. Petr Benda (203-F/C-82, agency: Court Side) responded with 13 points for Czech Republic. Ladislav Sokolovsky (201-F-77, agency: PPGroup) netted 12 points in the loss.

France: Nicolas Batum 15, Boris Diaw 13, Florent Pietrus 12
Czech Republic: Petr Benda 13, Ladislav Sokolovsky 12


Israel hold off Czech Republic in France - by Eurobasket News
Israel U18 - Czech Republic U18 78:60

Israeli U18 team secured an important win over Czech Republic at the European Championship in France. The victory helped Israel to 1-0 record in Classification Round Group G. Israel thus stepped closer to saving their place in Division A of the tournament for the next season. Israel used a 26:11 first quarter to clear off for good.
Carmel Bouchman (205-F-91) knocked down 10 points to trigger a 15:0 run from Israel in the first frame that gave them a 22:7 advantage. Rotemberg capped the quarter with two free throws as Israel enjoyed a 26:11 advantage. Israel went on a 7:0 rally at the start of the second quarter boosting the lead to 22 points. Czechs responded with 9:0 spurt of their own to stay in the game. Czech Republic cut the deficit to 11 points at halftime. Kriz, Hering and Jaromir Bohacik (195-F-92, agency: PPGroup) clipped the margin to just 4 points early in the third period. But Israel restored a safe cushion heading into the fourth term ahead by 11. Israel kept their opponents at bay throughout the final period and sealed the winning outcome at the end.
Nimrod Tishman (195-G-91) and Carmel Bouchman knocked down 18 points apiece for Israel. Karam Mashour (196-F-91) added 12 points and 9 rebounds in the win. Jaromir Bohacik responded with 14 points for Czech Republic. Vaclav Honomichl (186-G-92) delivered 11 points in the loss.

Israel U18: Nimrod Tishman 18, Carmel Bouchman 18, Karam Mashour 12
Czech Republic U18: Jaromir Bohacik 14, Vaclav Honomichl 11


*****************************************************
  DENMARK   


Laerke notches 34 for the Danish win - by Eurobasket News
Denmark U18-Belarus U18 81:71


Thomas Laerke (193-F-91) erupted with 34 points for the Danish team as they rolled over Belarus in the last game of the Preliminary Round. Denmark U18 registered 81:71 victory to leave Belarus winless.
It was Belarus to control the beginning of the game and finish the quarter at 22:18. Uladzimir Krysevich (208-C-91) scored for 30:24 and Vitali Liutych (197-G-92) posted 11 in a row for his team to remain in front. At first Thomas Laerke closed the second period for 43:38 and then Vitali Liutych nailed three for 46:38. The third period was successful for the Danish squad that won it 25-14. Jonathan Gilling (200-F-91) brought his team 63:57 after three quarters. Lien-Iversen made the double-digit lead at 67:57 and Thomas Laerke scored for 74:60. Belarus tried to recover but failed with 14-18 loss in the last quarter. Vitali Liutych made a dunk with a buzzer for the final 81:71 on the board.
Jonathan Gilling followed Thomas Laerke with 19 points and Bak added 9 for the winners. Uladzimir Krysevich collected 20 points and 15 rebounds in defeat as Belarus dropped at 0-5. Vitali Liutych posted 17, while Maksim Dabravolski (195-G-91) scored 11 points. Both teams will play in the Classification Round that will start on July 29th.

Denmark U18: Thomas Laerke 34, Jonathan Gilling 19, Bak 9
Belarus U18: Uladzimir Krysevich 20+15 rebs, Vitali Liutych 17, Maksim Dabravolski 11


Denmark fall short against Estonia - by Eurobasket News
Estonia - Denmark 73:43

Denmark visited Estonia to play the series of friendly games against the hosts. The teams clashed in the first game yesterday. Estonia looked the better team and rolled to a comfortable 30-point victory. Joosep Toome (202-F-85) and Rait Keerles (201-F-80) paced a well-balanced effort.
Estonia stamped their authority early in the game outscoring the Danish team 19:8 in the opening frame. Denmark accounted for 14 points in the second period but could not work it out defensively allowing the home team to race to a 19-point halftime lead. Things changed little in the third quarter. Estonia dominated rallying to a 25-point advantage into the final quarter. Denmark never recovered and had to suffer a bitter loss at the end.
Janar Talts (205-C-83) finished with 10 points for Estonia. Alan Voskuil (191-G-86, college: Texas Tech) had 11 points for Denmark. Adama Darbo (190-G-86, agency: Rasmussen Services) and Niccolai Iversen (204-F-80, agency: Rasmussen Services, college: San Jose City JC) delivered 8 points apiece in the losing case. Estonia outrebounded their opponents 47:33 and forced into 19 tunrovers. Denmark sank only 24% from the field in defeat.
The teams are scheduled to meet again tonight.

Estonia: Joosep Toome 11, Rait Keerles 11, Janar Talts 10
Denmark: Alan Voskuil 11, Adama Darbo 8, Niccolai Iversen 8


Keith Borgan is looking at opportunities - by Thomas Soltau

The Roskilde point guard had a good season with the last season's newcomer to the Danish CDL league, sadly his play where not enough to keep his team from relegation.

The economic situation with RBBC did not help either.

Keith Borgan (180-G-83, college: Metro St.) is a quality player in the CDL, and rumors have also linked the US player to other Danish CDL teams, while multiple other European teams have also expressed an interest.

Finland and Spain are said to be the talented guard's main areas of interest, but nothing is yet clear.


*****************************************************
  EBA   


Standings
EBA Standings
 1. DE Destroyers 0-0 
 2. Harrisburg H. 0-0 
 3. N.Y. Blaze 0-0 
 4. Elmira B. 0-0 
 5. Hampton RC 0-0 
 6. Maryland S. 0-0 
 7. NJ Lightning 0-0 
 8. Salem M. 0-0 
 9. Virginia W. 0-0 
 10. Washington M. 0-0 
 11. Cincinnati C. 0-0 
 12. Garden R. 0-0 
 13. New York W. 0-0 
 14. MC All-Stars 0-0 
 15. Newark P. 0-0 
 16. Warren Buzz 0-0 


EBA Announces FOUR New Teams - by EBA Media
The Eastern Basketball Alliance (EBA) today announces that it has added the Newark Patrons (Newark, NJ), the Maryland Suns (Bowie, MD), and the Warren Buzz (Warren Buzz, OH) to begin league play for the 2010 season and the New York Blaze (Queens, NY) to come in for the 2011 season.

Were very pleased to welcome these teams into the rapidly expanding EBA, stated league President Dick Anzolut.

The Newark Patrons, under the direction of team CEO and Coach Cleevas Craig, strengthens our New York New Jersey Metro region which will grow even more in 2011 when David Greenidges team, the New York Blaze, begins play in Queens, NY.

The Maryland Suns, under the leadership of Charles Thompson, adds another team to the leagues strong presence in the great area of Washington, DC. Other expansion teams will soon be announced for the Capital region according to Anzolut.

The Warren Buzz (Ohio) will join the Cincinnati Century in the EBAs move west. Anzolut said, John Galbraith, team CEO, who previously owned an indoor football team, has been working with the EBA to bring basketball to his area for some time. Were more than pleased to make this happen and we believe his teams entry into the EBA will open up many more possible sites from the basketball-crazy Ohio Valley.


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


Estonia - Denmark 2:0 - by Janar Filippov
Estonia - Denmark 63:59
EST: Joosep Toome (202-F-85) 13+10rb, Janar Talts (205-C-83) 12+3bs, Arbet 12+3as, Kangur 5+5rb+6as, Kriisa 5+5rb, Vene 5+4rb, Keerles 5
DEN: Niccolai Iversen (204-F-80, agency: Rasmussen Services, college: San Jose City JC) 12+8rb, Darboe 12+4as, Plannthin 8+6rb, Jacobsen 7, Voskuil 7

Only a day ago Estonia crashed Denmark by 30 points. This time, Danes were close to an upset. The guests led 16:11 after 1st quarter as the hosts had made 5/15 FG. In 2nd quarter, the hosts took the lead and won the first half 36:31. In 3rd, a dunk by Arbet made it 46:37 and in 4th, back to back baskets by Joosep Toome stretched the gap to 11, already. With 3 minutes left, it was 61:51 but the guests made an 8:0 run and with 20 seconds to play, the hosts led 61:59, only. Then Kriisa made 1/2 FT and Iversen misfired a three-pointer, allowing the hosts to escape this time.

Estonia U18 finished Group A with 4-1 record - by Eurobasket News
Norway U18-Estonia U18 71:74 OT

Estonia U18 finished Group A with 4-1 record after an overtime battle over Norway U18. The Baltic side overcame Norway 74:71 due to 11-8 in overtime.
Schoenning opened the game for the Norwegian team and Magnus Engen (188-F-91) made it 8:2. Estonia was able to tie the game at 11:11, however Norway posted two for 13:11 at the end of the first period. In the second period Norway played even better and had 33:18 for the biggest lead. Kaldre made a jump shot for 35:26 at the halftime. Jawara with a lay-up increased the lead to 46:30, while Mattia Bradascio (208-C-91) netted for 50:34. Norway however could not score until the rest of the frame and remained scoreless for more than three minutes. Kaldre closed 9-0 run for the Estonian team for 50:44.
Estonia was able to bounce back with 19-13 in the fourth period as Berg made it 63:63 before the overtime. Estonia produced 11-8 in the extra time for 74:71 victory as Puidet closed the game with a fabulous dunk.
Rannar Raap (187-G-92) collected 21 points and 10 rebounds for the fourth win. Martin Limberg (197-F-91) nailed 14, while Rain Veideman (192-G-91) had 13. Magnus Engen ended up with 22 points in the losing case, while Berg and Mattia Bradascio nailed 13 apiece.

Norway U18: Magnus Engen 22, Berg 13, Mattia Bradascio 13
Estonia U18: Rannar Raap 21+10 rebs, Martin Limberg 14, Rain Veideman 13

Estonian NT beats Denmark easily - by Janar Filippov
Estonia - Denmark 73:43
EST: Joosep Toome (202-F-85) 11, Rait Keerles (201-F-80) 11, Janar Talts (205-C-83) 10, Gregor Arbet (194-F/G-83) 9+5 as, Tanel Sokk (183-G-85) 6+4as, Kristjan Kangur (202-F-82) 6+6rb, Kristjan Makke (205-F/C-81, college: W.Illinois) 5+5rb, Viljar Veski (215-C-86) 4+9rb
DEN: Alan Voskuil (191-G-86, college: Texas Tech) 11, Niccolai Iversen (204-F-80, agency: Rasmussen Services, college: San Jose City JC) 8+8rb, Adam Darboe 8+5rb, Jens Hakanowitz 6

Estonia won easily and proved that they belong to the EuroBasket Division A, no matter how the crucial games against Czech Rep., Ukraina and Hungary will end. The hosts (game was played in Paide) led 19:8 after 1st quarter, Joosep Toome had 9 pts, already. The game never became even again and all 12 Estonians had at least 7 minutes of playing time. The guests made less than 25% of shots. The teams will meet again on Monday, i.e. today, already.

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


Torin Francis against Panathinaikos - by Serafim Karaiskakis
Torin Francis (210-F-83, agent: jzanik@asmsports.com ), the Notre Dame graduate, is the hottest name in the Greek market. The best inside player for the Greek A1 league played in AEL 1964 and had averages: Score-2 (16.4ppg), Reb-1 (8.6rpg), and Blocks-2 (1.4bpg). He had to leave from AEL few games before the end of the league due to payment issues but he found a second job in Hapoel Migdal Jerusalem where he had 9.5ppg, 7.4rpg in only 19.9min per game.

It is rumoured that his salary demands are around 250.000$.

Eurobasket.com gives the chance to the fans to watch online Torin Francis against Panathinaikos.

http://vimeo.com/4699625

The password is: mays

AEL 1964 - Panathinaikos 78-83

Torin Francis, N.15, white jersey

22 points (6/8 1p, 5/11 2p, 2/3 3pt) , 10 rebounds, 1 assist and 1 block in 34 minutes


*****************************************************
  EUROPEAN CHAMPIONSHIPS U18   


Stats Leader
Points Per Game
 Thomas LAERKE
  (193-F-91)
  Avg: 31.3
 1. Laerke, DEN31.3 
 2. Richards, ENG29.0 
 3. Van Teeselin., NED23.0 
 4. Veideman, EST20.4 
 5. Radovic, MNT20.3 
 6. Eilingsfeld, HUN19.0 
 7. Grznar, SVK18.0 
 8. Fraser, SCO17.8 
 9. Czerapowicz, SWE17.8 
 10. Noel, E.17.8 
Rebounds Per Game
 Ryan RICHARDS
  ENG
  (210-F-91)
  Avg: 13
 1. Richards, ENG13.0 
 2. Treffers, NED11.0 
 3. Bergstedt, DEN10.7 
 4. Dubas, SUI9.8 
 5. Radovic, MNT9.3 
 6. Lepsenyi, HUN9.0 
 7. Eilingsfeld, HUN9.0 
 8. Fras, POL8.5 
 9. Lindqvist, SWE8.5 
 10. Ausepian, B.8.3 
Assists Per Game
 Snezana LAZOVIC
  (170-G-92)
  Avg: 4.3
 1. Lazovic, MNT4.3 
 2. Petkovic, SUI3.8 
 3. Tavartkiladz., GEO3.7 
 4. Deroover, BEL3.5 
 5. Jawara, NOR3.4 
 6. Vancura, AUT3.3 
 7. Bakradze, GEO3.0 
 8. Djordan, MNT3.0 
 9. Maksimovic, BIH2.8 
 10. Moravcsik, H.2.7 
Steals Per Game
 Jasper VAN TEESELING
  NED
  (208-C-75)
  Avg: 3
 1. Van Teeselin., NED3.0 
 2. Petkovic, SUI2.8 
 3. Persson, SWE2.8 
 4. Dorbek, EST2.8 
 5. Veideman, EST2.6 
 6. Heinonen, FIN2.3 
 7. Ihnatchyk, BLR2.3 
 8. Grznar, SVK2.3 
 9. Lazovic, MNT2.3 
 10. Tavartkiladz., G.2.3 
Blocks Per Game
 Nermin BUZA
  (206-F/C-91)
  Avg: 1.8
 1. Buza, BIH1.8 
 2. Ausepian, BLR1.8 
 3. Radovic, MNT1.7 
 4. Limberg, EST1.6 
 5. Fraser, SCO1.5 
 6. Goldsbrough, ENG1.5 
 7. Crolley, SCO1.3 
 8. Bergstedt, DEN1.3 
 9. Dubljevic, MNT1.3 
 10. Fras, P.1.3 


Stats Leaders Div. A
Points Per Game
 Toni PROSTRAN
  (183-G-91)
  Avg: 23.3
 1. Prostran, CRO23.3 
 2. Antipov, RUS21.7 
 3. Tishman, ISR20.0 
 4. Valanciunas, LTU16.8 
 5. Musli, SRB16.8 
 6. Neumann, GER16.5 
 7. Cebasek, SLO14.8 
 8. Muric, SLO14.3 
 9. Jodar, ESP13.0 
 10. Mutaf, T.12.8 
Rebounds Per Game
 Enes KANTER
  (206-C-92)
  Avg: 15.3
 1. Kanter, TUR15.3 
 2. Valanciunas, LTU11.5 
 3. Musli, SRB10.5 
 4. Antipov, RUS10.0 
 5. Meiers, LAT10.0 
 6. Neumann, GER8.3 
 7. Sandul, UKR8.0 
 8. Jakolis, CRO7.5 
 9. Kriz, CZE7.3 
 10. Bouchman, I.6.8 
Assists Per Game
 Toni PROSTRAN
  (183-G-91)
  Avg: 7
 1. Prostran, CRO7.0 
 2. Peciukeviciu., LTU5.0 
 3. Franch, ESP4.8 
 4. Span, SLO4.5 
 5. Angelopoulos, GRE4.3 
 6. Westermann, FRA4.0 
 7. Musli, SRB3.5 
 8. Ciz, CZE3.5 
 9. Toz, TUR3.3 
 10. Tishman, I.3.0 
Steals Per Game
 Andrea DE NICOLAO
  (185-G-91)
  Avg: 4
 1. De Nicolao, ITA4.0 
 2. Babic, CRO3.5 
 3. Torlak, SRB2.3 
 4. Franch, ESP2.3 
 5. Kriz, CZE2.3 
 6. Dotan, ISR2.3 
 7. Tishman, ISR2.3 
 8. Chrysikopoul., GRE2.3 
 9. Lebedintsev, UKR2.0 
 10. Kanonidis, G.2.0 
Blocks Per Game
 Philipp NEUMANN
  (210-C-92)
  Avg: 4
 1. Neumann, GER4.0 
 2. Valanciunas, LTU3.0 
 3. Djekic, SRB3.0 
 4. Musli, SRB2.3 
 5. Meiers, LAT2.0 
 6. Staniulis, LTU1.3 
 7. Balashov, RUS1.3 
 8. Georgakis, GRE1.3 
 9. Rondovic, SRB1.3 
 10. Jodar, E.1.0 


Standings Division A
Standings
Group E
1. Croatia3-0
2. Spain2-1
3. Serbia2-1
4. France1-2
5. Slovenia1-2
6. Germany0-3
Group F
1. Lithuania3-0
2. Turkey3-0
3. Russia1-2
4. Italy1-2
5. Latvia1-2
6. Bulgaria0-3
Group G
1. Greece1-0
2. Israel1-0
3. Ukraine0-1
4. Czech Repu.0-1


M-Standings - Group B
Standings Div.B
Group E
1. Bosnia1-0
2. Sweden1-0
3. Estonia0-1
4. Poland0-1
Group F
1. U.Kingdom1-0
2. Monteneg.1-0
3. Holland0-1
4. Belgium0-1
Group G
1. Finland1-0
2. Hungary1-0
3. Iceland0-1
4. Denmark0-1
Group H
1. Scotland1-0
2. Switzerl.1-0
3. Austria0-1
4. Georgia0-1
Group I
1. Norway1-0
2. Slovakia0-0
3. Belarus0-1
Group J
1. Portugal0-0
2. Romania0-0


Div. B Day: 5 (Preliminary Round) - by Eurobasket News
Group A
Denmark - Belarus 81-71
Thomas Laerke (193-F-91) erupted with 34 points for the Danish team as they rolled over Belarus in the last game of the Preliminary Round. Denmark U18 registered 81:71 victory to leave Belarus winless. Gilling followed Thomas Laerke with 19 points and Bak added 9 for the winners. Krysevich collected 20 points and 15 rebounds in defeat as Belarus dropped at 0-5. Liutych posted 17, while Dabravolski scored 11 points.

Norway - Estonia 71-74
Estonia U18 finished Group A with 4-1 record after an overtime battle over Norway U18. The Baltic side overcame Norway 74:71 due to 11-8 in overtime.Rannar Raap (187-G-92) collected 21 points and 10 rebounds for the fourth win. Limberg nailed 14, while Veideman had 13. Engen ended up with 22 points in the losing case, while Berg and Bradascio nailed 13 apiece.

Bosnia - Hungary 75-72
Bosnia and Herzegovina sent Hungary out of the Qualifying Round at the U18 European Championship. The home side started strong to finish with 75:72 victory. Nikola Gajic (195-G-91) paced all the winners with 17 points for 5-0 record. Demic nailed 15, while Grosic added 13. Eilingsfeld erupted with 24 points and 15 rebounds in defeat, while Lakosa scored 23.

Group B
Finland - Slovakia 83-57
Finland beat Slovak Republic 83:57 in Sarajevo as both teams head to the Classification Round of U18 European Championship. The Finnish side is third in the group with 2-2 record, while Slovak Republic finished winless. Villematti Kopio (180-G-92) paced all the winners with 18 points for the winners. Lindbom notched 16, while Vanttaja added 14. Mrvis finished the night with 13 points and Ondrejka added 12.

Poland - Sweden 69-81
Sweden wins over Poland in Sarajevo as both teams head to the Qualifying Round of U18 European Championship. The Scandinavian team overcame Polish side 81:69 to win the group with 4-0 record. Poland meanwhile advanced with 3-1 as they tasted the only loss. Christopher Czerapowicz (197-F-91) top-scored for the winners with 21 points for the undefeated record. Persson nailed 15, while Person and Gaddefors scored 9 each. Szymanski and Parzenski delivered 14 points each in defeat.

Group C
Georgia - Montenegro 74-85
Montenegro won Group C with 4-0 record as they rolled over Georgia 85:74 in the last game of the day. Radovic Nemanja top-scored for the winners with 28 points and Ljujic Nikola added 26. Akaki Dvalishvili (206-C-91) erupted with 33 points and 12 boards in the losing effort.

Holland - Romania 83-72
Netherlands U18 advanced to the Qualifying Round of the U18 European Championship. The Dutch team produced 83:72 over winless Romania to send them to 0-4. Dimeo Van Der Horst (195-G/F-91) top-scored for the winners with 17 points for 3-1 record. Jeroen van Vugt nailed 16, whilst Treffers and Padberg added 9 apiece. Tibirna finished the game with 19 points in defeat and Parlog added 11.

Group D
Portugal - United Kingdom 79-88
English U18 team posted the fourth straight win at the European Championship in Division B. They held off Portugal today to remain on top of Group D. Portugal on the other hand suffered the fourth defeat in a row falling deeper. Joshua Houghton (189-G-91) punished Portugal with 31 points. Levi Noel finished with 19 points, 10 boards and 6 assists for England. Ryan Martin added 11 points and 9 caroms for the winners. Carlos Ferreirinho responded with 32 points for Portugal. Miguel Queiroz notched 11 points and 7 boards in defeat.

Belgium - Austria 70-61
Maarten Rademakers (205-C-91) and Pierre-Antoine Gillet scored 16 points each to lead Belgium to the third win at the U18 European Championship in Division B. The victory allowed Belgium to occupy the second position in Group D as they advanced into the Qualifying Round. Austria finished the preliminary round at 1-3 record in the fourth spot. They will play in the classification round for the 9th-16th place. Yannick Moray knocked down 12 points for the winning team. Carlos Novas Mateo answered with 18 points for Austria. Anton Maresch had 8 points in defeat.


Day: 4 (Qualifying Round) - by Eurobasket News
Group E
Spain - France 75-69
Spanish team sneaked past France at the U18 European Championship. Spaniards improved at 2-1 record in Qualifying Round Group E. The hosts in the meantime fell to surprising 1-2 record in the pool. Joan Tomas (201-F-92) and Ignacio Llovet finished with 15 points each for Spain. Alberto Jodar added 12 points in the victory. Fabien Paschal replied with 16 points and 12 boards for France. Leo Westermann had 12 points in defeat.

Germany - Serbia 68-89
Serbia clinched the first win in Group E of the U18 European Championship in France. They held off German opponents to improve at 2-1 record in the pool. Germany slipped at 0-3 after the defeat. Danilo Andjusic (190-G-91, agency: Beo Basket) stepped up with game-high 26 points to pace Serbia. He unloaded impressive 8/10 three-pointers en route to an outstanding result. Dejan Musli finished with 17 points and 17 rebounds for Serbia. Nikola Rondovic added 15 points and 9 boards in the win. Philipp Neumann had 20 points for Germany. Mathis Monninghoff chipped in 11 points in the loss.

Slovenia - Croatia 84-90
Croatian U18 team celebrated the fourth consecutive win in France. They opened the Qualifying Round of the European Championship with victory over Slovenia. Croatia improved at 3-0 record, while Slovenia fell at 1-2 in Group E. Dino Jakolis (198-G-91) and Dragan Sekelja scored 20 points apiece for Croatia. Matteo Juricic had 18 points, 6 boards and 4 assists in the win. Sven Malus and Jakob Cebasek knocked down 22 points each for Slovenia.

Group F
Italy - Latvia 66-58
Italian U18 team posted the first win at the Qualifying Round of the European Championship in France. They hung on to topple Latvia in Group F tonight. Italy therefore improved at 1-2 record catching up with the Baltic team in the ladder. Riccardo Moraschini (195-G-91) and Achille Polonara knocked down 14 points each to lead Italy. Andrea De Nicolao added 8 points for the winning side. Armands Osins managed 14 points and 8 boards for Latvia. Ugis Pinete had 11 points in the losing case.

Russia - Turkey 70-72
Turkish U18 team secured the fourth straight win at the European Championship in France. Earlier today they nipped Russia at the start of the Qualifying Round in Group F. Thus Turkey improved at 3-0 record in the pool, sending Russia at 1-2. Turkey wasted their 12-point advantage in the final stanza to play extra period. They however managed to pull together before escaping with a narrow victory at the end. Enes Kanter (206-C-92) delivered 19 points and 22 rebounds to orchestrate the win. Can Maxim Mutaf added 15 points, while Safak Edge dropped 14. Mikhail Nabotov responded with 12 points for Russia. Alexander Burtsev finished with 11 points and 9 boards in the loss.

Bulgaria - Lithuania 40-91
Lithuania extended their unbeaten run at the U18 European Championship in France. The Baltic team posted the fourth straight victory at the tournament today. They outclassed Bulgaria to open the Qualifying Round action. Lithuania thus improved at 3-0 record in Group F, while Bulgaria fell at 0-3. Saulius Kulvietis (204-F-91) knocked down 18 points to pace Lithuania. Osvaldas Matulionis added 16 points in the win. Darin Ivanov responded with 8 points for Bulgaria. Hristo Gospodinov and Emil Binev had 6 points each in the losing effort.

Group G
Czech Republic - Israel 60-78
Israeli U18 team secured an important win over Czech Republic at the European Championship in France. The victory helped Israel to 1-0 record in Classification Round Group G. Israel thus stepped closer to saving their place in Division A of the tournament for the next season. Israel used a 26:11 first quarter to clear off for good. Nimrod Tishman (195-G-91) and Carmel Bouchman knocked down 18 points apiece for Israel. Karam Mashour added 12 points and 9 rebounds in the win. Jaromir Bohacik responded with 14 points for Czech Republic. Vaclav Honomichl delivered 11 points in the loss.

Ukraine - Greece 45-73
Greece thumped Ukraine at the classification round for the 13th-16th spot of the U18 European Championship. Four teams are fighting to remain in Division A for the next season. Greece made the first step towards the goal. They handled Ukraine to improve at 1-0 record in Group G. Ukraine on the other hand suffered the fourth straight defeat in France slipping at 0-1. Andreas Kanonidis (198-F-91) dropped 17 points to pace Greece. Dionysios Kapiniaris provided 13 points and 7 boards in the victory. Andriy Lebedintsev responded with 16 points for Ukraine. Maksym Sandul finished with 11 points in defeat.


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


Finland and Slovakia finish Group B in Bosnia - by Eurobasket News
Finland U18-Slovak Republic U18 83:57

Finland beat Slovak Republic 83:57 in Sarajevo as both teams head to the Classification Round of U18 European Championship. The Finnish side is third in the group with 2-2 record, while Slovak Republic finished winless.
Soltes brought Slovak Republic the first lead, however the team could not stay in front for a long time. Carl Lindbom (204-F-91) made the score 10:5 and Cato scored for 14:8. Vanttaja made two free throws at the end of the first period for 16:8 lead. No matter how hard Slovakia tried to recover, Finland did not allow them to do so. After 24-21 in the second frame Villematti Kopio (180-G-92) sent the teams to the big break for 40:29. Fulka scored for 51:42 and Matej Ondrejka (195-G-91) reduced to 57:44 midway through the third period. Soltes closed the third period for 66:48. Finland added also 17-9 in the last stanza for the total 83:57 victory.
Villematti Kopio paced all the winners with 18 points for the winners. Carl Lindbom notched 16, while Vanttaja added 14. Tomas Mrvis (193-G-91) finished the night with 13 points and Matej Ondrejka added 12.
In another game of the day Sweden wins over Poland in Sarajevo as both teams head to the Qualifying Round of U18 European Championship. The Scandinavian team overcame Polish side 81:69 to win the group with 4-0 record. Poland meanwhile advanced with 3-1 as they tasted the only loss.

Finland U18: Villematti Kopio 18, Carl Lindbom 16, Vanttaja 14
Slovak Republic U18: Tomas Mrvis 13, Matej Ondrejka 12


INTERNATIONAL: Sweden gave a lesson - by Rauno Hurmalainen
International Tournament, Szombathely, Hungary, Day 3: Finland lost today vs Sweden 73-76 (39-50). Quarters: 22-25, 17-25, 16-19, 18-7. Sweden was leading
already by 20 pts during the third quarter, but Finland came back to the game during the last 10 minutes. Sweden (Lesli Myrthil) made a 3-pointer 33 seconds before the buzzer and took the first and only victory in the tournament. Finland defeated Holland by 13 pts and Holland upset Sweden by one after OT. This time Finland had four players over 10 pts: Petteri Koponen (13), Kimmo Muurinen (13), Hanno Mottola (12) and Shawn Huff (198-G/F-84, college: Valparaiso) (11). Huff was teams leading rebounder (8). Hungary - Holland 78-72 (43-27). Final standings: 1) Hungary (3-0), 2) Finland (1-2), 3) Holland (1-2), 4) Sweden (1-2).

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


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


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


Spain work hard to upset France - by Eurobasket News
Spain U18 - France U18 75:69

Spanish team sneaked past France at the U18 European Championship. Spaniards improved at 2-1 record in Qualifying Round Group E. The hosts in the meantime fell to surprising 1-2 record in the pool.
Sastre ensured a fast start for Spain scoring 5 points in a row. The visitors stretched the gap to 8 points midway through the quarter. France failed to deny the deficit and trailed by 8 at the first break. Guigou opened a double-digit lead for Spain with a three-pointer early in the second quarter. But the hosts shook off the sloppiness and responded with an 18:2 rally to tie things up at 30. Les Bleus capped the half with 10 straight points to lead 40:34 at halftime. Stojilijkovic and Fabien Paschal (206-C/F-91) gave France a 9-point advantage early in the third stanza. Spain responded with a 14:0 run to regain control. Ignacio Llovet (202-C-91) opened the final frame with a lay-up to give Spain a 59:50 lead. The visiting maintained the cushion well enough throughout the reminder of the contest to celebrate an important win at the end.
Joan Tomas (201-F-92) and Ignacio Llovet finished with 15 points each for Spain. Alberto Jodar (204-F/C-91) added 12 points in the victory. Fabien Paschal replied with 16 points and 12 boards for France. Leo Westermann (198-G-92) had 12 points in defeat.

Spain U18: Joan Tomas 15, Ignacio Llovet 15, Alberto Jodar 12
France U18: Fabien Paschal 16+12 boards, Leo Westermann 12


France win tournament in Strasbourg - by Eurobasket News
France - Czech Republic 84:66

France claimed the top spot at the international tournament in Strasbourg. They clinched the third straight win to finish the contest undefeated. Les Bleus outgunned Czech Republic yesterday overcoming a slow start.
Both teams entered the game with perfect record and fought for the top spot. The hosts jumped to a narrow 9:7 lead midway through the opening frame. But Czech Republic spurred in front to win the first quarter 21:19. But France regained control pretty fast. They went on a 15:2 rally at the start of the second stanza to build a comfortable advantage. The French team arrived at halftime leading by 12 points. They maintained the advantage well enough to enter the fourth quarter up by the same 12 points. Czech Republic tipped off the fourth stanza with a 7:1 rally to cut the distance. France however responded with an 18:6 run to pull away with a confident success at the end.
Nicolas Batum (201-F-88) knocked down 15 points to pace France. Boris Diaw (203-F/C-82) added 13 points, while Florent Pietrus (202-F-81, agency: Octagon) had 12 points for the winners. Petr Benda (203-F/C-82, agency: Court Side) responded with 13 points for Czech Republic. Ladislav Sokolovsky (201-F-77, agency: PPGroup) netted 12 points in the loss.

France: Nicolas Batum 15, Boris Diaw 13, Florent Pietrus 12
Czech Republic: Petr Benda 13, Ladislav Sokolovsky 12


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


Macedonian National Team starts with preparations, Gecevski to join soon - by Eurobasket News
After spending a day gathering in Skopje, Macedonian National Team headed to Zlatibor where they will start with first phase of preparations for upcoming EuroBasket 2009 in Poland. The team is currently dealing with some minor injuries of few candidates, as Dime Tasovski (201-F-80) is currently cleared to practice but without contact due to knee injury, while Stefanovski is also close to recovering from his predicament. Still both players should be ready sometime during the team's stay in Zlatibor, so now Head Coach Jovica Arsic is only waiting on two more players to join the team. Jeremiah Massey (202-F-82, college: Kansas St.) and Todor Gecevski (209-C-77, agency: Interperformances) will join the squad in Zlatibor as they were given few extra days of rest. Gecevski also had some issues with his team, Zadar which required for him to stay few extra days in order to clear everything out. But he is expected not to miss too much time, and that he will come to preparations. Gecevski is considered and integral part of National Team which will be competing in Poland as he brings a wealth of experience at the center position.
Todor Gecevski started his career with BC Kavadarci in Macedonian A-1 League. He also played for host of teams including Kavadarci, Nikol Fert Gostivar, Air Avellino, Brandt Hagen before coming to Zadar. He was most successful ad Zadar with whom he has won host of trophies. In 2005 and 2008 he has won National League while in 2004 and 2004 he has won National Cup. This year Gecevski had pretty good season on all fronts, averaging 14.4 points and 5.9 rebounds in 15 Croatian League games. In Adriatic League he made 26 appearances averaging 14.3 points and 7.8 rebounds while in EuroCup he averaged 14.6 points and 4.5 rebounds in 13 games. Gecevski is also a member of Macedonian National Team. He was an integral part of the team which managed to qualify for European Championships which will be held in Poland.

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


Serbia post first win in Qualifying Round in France - by Eurobasket News
Serbia U18 - Germany U18 89:68

Serbia clinched the first win in Group E of the U18 European Championship in France. They held off German opponents to improve at 2-1 record in the pool. Germany slipped at 0-3 after the defeat. Danilo Andjusic (190-G-91, agency: Beo Basket) stepped up with game-high 26 points to pace Serbia. He unloaded impressive 8/10 three-pointers en route to an outstanding result.
Dejan Musli (214-C-91) and Nikola Rondovic (205-F-91) led Serbia to a 15:0 lead at the start of the game. Germany struggled to come back to life in the opening stanza as Serbia posted a 28:13 lead after ten minutes. Germany reignited the game with a 15:2 run at the start of the second quarter. Andujic drained one of his triples just on time to give Serbia some breathing space and the Balkan team secured a 35:31 advantage at halftime.
Barthel however put Germany up early in the third frame. The lead changed hands for a couple of times throughout the stanza before Andujic and Djekic gave Serbia a 63:57 lead into the fourth quarter. The Serbian team went on a 7:0 run at the beginning of the final frame to earn a 13-point advantage. This proved too much for Germany as they never recovered.
Dejan Musli finished with 17 points and 17 rebounds for Serbia. Nikola Rondovic added 15 points and 9 boards in the win. Philipp Neumann (210-C-92) had 20 points for Germany. Mathis Monninghoff (198-G-92) chipped in 11 points in the loss.

Serbia U18: Danilo Andjusic 26, Dejan Musli 17+17 boards, Nikola Rondovic 15
Germany U18: Philipp Neumann 20, Mathis Monninghoff 11


Red Kangaroos sign Mr. Double-Double - by Moritz Korff
Regionalliga South-East outfit BG Leitershofen/Stadtbergen has made a deal with Devin Uskoski (198-C, college: Rocky Mountain) for the 2009-2010 season. Uskoski led Rocky Mountain College to the 2008-09 NAIA Division 1 National Championship. In the final game against Columbia College he scored 24 points and pulled down 20 boards. He posted a NAIA leading 29 double-doubles in 37 games as a senior and received All-America Third Team honors. Uskoski is a very strong post player, who plays much bigger than his size. During 2008-09 he averaged 17.5 points and 11.7 rebounds per game for the Battlin' Bears. He will now start his overseas career in Leitershofen and play at the same place like another RMC graduate only some months ago. Luke Kunkel (201-F/C-81, college: Rocky Mountain) lined up for the Red Kangaroos from 2006 until February 2009, when he moved on to Erdgas Ehingen/Urspringschule.

Jerome Bridgewater Signs With Ratiopharm Ulm - by Miles Schmidt-Scheuber
A few weeks ago, the BBL was a big dream and big goal of German Jerome Bridgewater (193-F-89) and today it has become a reality as Ratiopharm Ulm has signed him to a contract. The 193cm forward who grew up watching his heros play in the Kuhberg halle in Ulm, but also spent time living in USA will get a chance to show what he can do on the floor. Ulm which has been known of signing young Germans and shaping and developing them further have a clear idea of what he will do. 'I see Jerome as our 11th or 12th man. We will give him a chance. At the same time, he will be able to play in the Oberliga and get his German Abitur', stated Ratiopharm Ulm manager Thomas Stoll

Bridgewater started his basketballl career in 2004 with the SG Urspringschule juniors and played there until 2006. He then moved to BSG Ludwigsburg where he played Regionaliga the last two years.Last season, he averaged 8,9ppg.The twenty year old who spent time this summer working out with Ludwigsburg assistant coach Tyrone Mccoy and knows what he can do on the floor, but also understands that he can still improve in areas. 'I am more of an energy guy and try to play smart. I am just doing things that I am thinking I am able to do.I think that I am very good at attacking the rim and drawing fouls. I love to create and set up shots for my teammates. I run the fast break very well. I am a strong rebounder for a small forward and love to attack the rim. My best strength is my on an doff ball defense. My physical strength allows me to make it possible for me to guard pgs, sgs, sfs and also some smaller pfs. I do still have to work on my jump shot. My perimeter shot has to get better. My weak hand finishes are not very good. I sometimes struggle at the foul line. I get stuck or lost often in a zone defense. I do not have any post moves yet', stressed Jerome Bridgewater (193-F-89) For a 20 year old, Bridgewater already talks like an experienced player who has a clear vision of what he can or cant do. In Ulm, he will have a lot of time to get better with coach Mike Taylor guiding him in the right direction.

Source: http://www.basketball-ulm.de/




BSW Sixers keep leading scorer until 2011 - by Moritz Korff
The BSW Sixers (Regionalliga North) have extended the contract of Christian Anderson until 2011. The 34-year-old veteran came to the Sixers during the 2009-2010 season and led the team in scoring in his 11 games played. Anderson averaged 22.3 points per contest.
The Sixers also agreed to terms with another experienced player. Brambora will stay for another season. Meanwhile, Matthias Haut, who suited up for USC Leipzig in the Regionalliga South-East last season, signed a two-year contract.

MEG Goettingen Secure Taj Finger - by Miles Schmidt-Scheuber
MEG Goettingen got active again on the BBL transfer market signing American Taj Finger (203-F-86) to a contract. The 22 year old 203cm forward who can also help out at the center position played in Norway last season for Troms Storm and averaged in 21 games: 18.0ppg, Reb-1 (10.7rpg), 2.2apg, 2.0spg, Blocks-2 (1.9bpg), 2FGP: 56.1%, 3PT: 28.6%, FT: 71.0%.What stands out is his strong ability to rebound and shot blocking. Coach John Patrick is happy about the new signing. 'Taj is an athletic and variable forward who will help us with his intensity in all phases of our game. He is quick on his feet, has long arms, and his good basketball know how will help us be deeper at the position 3-5. His work ethic and winner mentality were two of the most important reasons I got him for the upcoming Eurochallenge season', commemted Goettingen coach John Patrick

Finger who hails from Mt Fisco, New York played at Fox Lane high school and had the luxury of going to one of the finest American colleges Stanford from 2004-2008. It wasn't easy getting playing time when your playing on the same team as current NBA players Brook and Robin Lopez, but Finger was a role player and in his senior year he averaged in 36 games: 5.9ppg, 4.4rpg, FGP: 55.2%, 3Pts: 22.2%, FT: 75.0%.His biggest success at Stanford on the court was being a PAC-10 tournament finalist in 2008.

Source: www.bg74.de

Kristian Kuhn Comes To PRO B Team Ehingen - by Miles Schmidt-Scheuber
PRO B team Ehingen have signed German talent Kristian Kuhn (208-C-87, college: N.Arizona) to a contract. The 21 year old 208 cm center has made a steady development the last years even touching ground in the NCAA for a short period. Coach Ralf Junge is confident that his new player will help the team on the court. 'I am happy that we were able to win another young German player for our program. I am sure that he will be an importnat player for us this season', stressed Ehingen coach Ralf Junge

Kuhn started his basketball career at SC Bergstrasse and played there from 2004-2006. In the 2005-2006 seaosn, he averaged 17.3 ppg, 14.6 rpg. In the 2006-2007 season, he played for TV Langen 2 in the Regionaliga and averaged in 13 games: 5.3 ppg, 8.2 rpg. In the 2007-2008 seaosn, he went over the pond and played college ball at Trinity Valley JC and in the 2008-2009 season went to Northern Arizona, but received little playing time and headed back to Germany and played at TV Langen where he averaged in 2 games: 3.0ppg, 3.5rpg.
Source: www.steeples.net

Jabril Banks Heads To FC Bayern Muenchen - by Miles Schmidt-Scheuber
PRO A team FC Bayern Muenchen found some help for the dirty work under the basket by signing american Jabril Banks (201-F) to a contract. The 22 year old 201cm power forward will get his first taste of German basketball as he comes fresh from college and will test the waters as a PRO A rookie. Banks played at Northern Colorado and in his senior year he averaged in 32 games: 12.1ppg, 5.6rpg, FGP: 62.3%, 3Pts: 40.0%, FT: 72.6%Bayern Munich coach Georg Kaempf is sure that Banks will make the difference under the boards. 'Jabril Bankss our missing puzzle piece at the big positions. He is an athletic lefty that has a certain outside shot and surely will give certain defenders big problems with his varied game', warned Munich coach Georg Kaempf
Source: http://basketball.fcbayern.de/


Kevin Magdowski is the new Head Coach at Avanti Mondorf - by Daniel Poerschke
German coach Kevin Magdowski is the new head man at Avanti Mondorf in the 2nd League in Luxemburg for the upcoming season. Magdowski is no stranger to Luxemburg basketball, as he was the head coach at D1 club Walferdange for the last one and a half seasons. He also served as the head coach for the countries U-16 Men national team in 2008. Before that Magdowski worked as the head coach for a couple of years in the Regionalliga in Germany.
The club is also close to announce the signing of their new import player for next season and an announcement will be made later this week.

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


Greece start relegation round with victory - by Eurobasket News
Greece U18 - Ukraine U18 73:45

Greece thumped Ukraine at the classification round for the 13th-16th spot of the U18 European Championship. Four teams are fighting to remain in Division A for the next season. Greece made the first step towards the goal. They handled Ukraine to improve at 1-0 record in Group G. Ukraine on the other hand suffered the fourth straight defeat in France slipping at 0-1.
Andriy Lebedintsev (186-G-91) and Dzyuba opened the game with back-to-back three-pointers to pull Ukraine in front. But Greece gradually got into the game and spurred in front 17:15 after ten minutes. Andreas Kanonidis (198-F-91) and Dionysios Kapiniaris (184-G-91) gave the Hellenes a 5-point lead early in the second quarter. Consecutive triples from Andreas Kanonidis and Motsenigos ensured an 8-point lead for Greece midway through the second stanza. Greece opened the second half with 8 points in a row to accumulate a 45:27 advantage. They cruised to a 21-point buffer at three-quarter time. Ukraine had no chance to save the game and surrendered at the end.
Andreas Kanonidis dropped 17 points to pace Greece. Dionysios Kapiniaris provided 13 points and 7 boards in the victory. Andriy Lebedintsev responded with 16 points for Ukraine. Maksym Sandul (207-C-91) finished with 11 points in defeat.

Greece U18: Andreas Kanonidis 17, Dionysios Kapiniaris 13, Ioannis Angelopoulos (194-G-91) 11
Ukraine U18: Andriy Lebedintsev 16, Maksym Sandul 11


Torin Francis against Panathinaikos - by Serafim Karaiskakis
Torin Francis (210-F-83, agent: jzanik@asmsports.com), the Notre Dame graduate, is the hottest name in the Greek market. The best inside player for the Greek A1 league played in AEL 1964 and had averages: Score-2 (16.4ppg), Reb-1 (8.6rpg), and Blocks-2 (1.4bpg). He had to leave from AEL few games before the end of the league due to payment issues but he found a second job in Hapoel Migdal Jerusalem where he had 9.5ppg, 7.4rpg in only 19.9min per game.

It is rumoured that his salary demands are around 250.000$.

Eurobasket.com gives the chance to the fans to watch online Torin Francis against Panathinaikos.

http://vimeo.com/4699625

The password is: mays

AEL 1964 - Panathinaikos 78-83

Torin Francis, N.15, white jersey

22 points (6/8 1p, 5/11 2p, 2/3 3pt) , 10 rebounds, 1 assist and 1 block in 34 minutes


*****************************************************
  GUATEMALA   


Standings
LPB Standings
 1. D-Team 2-0 
 2. Le Mans 1-0 
 3. Preparatoria 0-0 
 4. Elite Sport 0-1 
 5. Compusys 0-2 


D Team wins again - by Gianni Pascucci
On sunday night, D-Team prevailed over Compusys 134-127 at the end of another LPB league game and now leads the table with a 2-0 record. The game was very battled however, because after a bad start Compusys managed to come back and to get in some trouble the favourite team. Another time more, Otto Rodriguez (192-F-88) was the bast in D-Team, with 37 points. Dangelo Vaughn (192-F-80) added 26 pts and Carlos Chavez (191-F-89) 20 at the winning side, while Compusys was led by Marcos Zetina and Jorge Castaneda, who scored 28 and 25 pts, respectively

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


Netherlands U18 advanced to the Qualifying Round - by Eurobasket News
Netherlands U18-Romania U18 83:72

Netherlands U18 advanced to the Qualifying Round of the U18 European Championship. The Dutch team produced 83:72 over winless Romania to send them to 0-4.
The favorites opened the game with 4:0, but Romania replied with 11-0 run. Dimeo Van Der Horst (195-G/F-91) tied the game at 11:11, while Williams brought the Dutch team 22:16 after the first 10 minutes. Romania was able to post another 16 points in the second quarter, but Netherlands proposed 20. Corpodean sent the teams to the big break for 42:32 after the first half. Jeroen van Vugt (192-G-91) made it 55:40 midway through the third period and Mulder's lay-up brought 57:42. Jeroen van Vugt was the last to score in the third period for 61:46. Romania meanwhile was able to win the last frame and had 26-22 in it. Bogdan Tibirna (207-C-91) made a lay-up for the final 83:72 margin on the board.
Dimeo Van Der Horst top-scored for the winners with 17 points for 3-1 record. Jeroen van Vugt nailed 16, whilst Quincy Treffers (200-F-91) and Padberg added 9 apiece. Bogdan Tibirna finished the game with 19 points in defeat and Iosif Parlog (194-F-92) added 11. The next games both teams will play on July 29th after the day-off.

Netherlands U18: Dimeo Van Der Horst 17, Jeroen van Vugt 16, Quincy Treffers 9, Padberg 9
Romania U18: Bogdan Tibirna 19, Iosif Parlog 11

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


Bosnia and Herzegovina U18 sent Hungary U18 out of the Qualifying Round - by Eurobasket News
Bosnia and Herzegovina U18-Hungary U18 75:72

Bosnia and Herzegovina sent Hungary out of the Qualifying Round at the U18 European Championship. The home side started strong to finish with 75:72 victory.
Janos Eilingsfeld (198-F/C-91, agency: Laszlo Vinko Services) gave Hungary the first lead as his team needed the victory as well. The hosts of the Championship replied for 15:10 midway through their 12-0 run. Demic closed the first period at 28:15. In the second period Hungary played better and bounced back to cut the gap. Biro made it 39:29 and Bajalinov scored for 45:40. Nikola Gajic (195-G-91) made a lay-up for 47:40 at the halftime. Hungary continued to push the tempo and catch up with the opponents. Zsolt Lakosa (190-G-91) was the last to score in the third frame for 62:59. It was him from the perimeter for 67:65 as he scored 9 points in a row for his team. Bosnia however did not allow to take them over and won the game 75:72. Buza made the final score to remain with his team undefeated.
Nikola Gajic paced all the winners with 17 points for 5-0 record. Demic nailed 15, while Rusmir Grosic (204-F-91) added 13. Janos Eilingsfeld erupted with 24 points and 15 rebounds in defeat, while Zsolt Lakosa scored 23.

Bosnia and Herzegovina U18: Nikola Gajic 17, Demic 15, Rusmir Grosic 13
Hungary U18: Janos Eilingsfeld 24+15 rebs, Zsolt Lakosa 23

*****************************************************
  IBL   


Game 2 of the International Basketball League best of 3 championship series- result - by Richard
Head coach Terrance Dickens of the Oregon Waves used a different substitution pattern from game 1and it paid off down the stretch of game 2as the Waves were able to hold off the Lightning to win by a single point. Coach Dickens plan was to not play his starters too much in the first three quartersbecause Dickens knew that he needed a strong delivery down the stretch and he got just that; Robert Day (6'6''-F-82, agency: 011 Sports, college: W.Oregon) scored 18 points in the third quarter and David Lucas and David Jackson (6'5''-G-78, college: Oregon) came alive in the fourth quarter in what wasa complete team effort by the Wave. The Waves were not without their difficult moments as Robert Day fouled out with 4 minutes to go in the game and David Lucas fouled out with 2 minutes to go. Setting up the final play of the game, the Oregon Waves Mike Johnsonhit two free throws with 15 second remaining to put the Wave up by two points with 15 seconds remaining; Darrick Martin (5'11''-G-71, college: UCLA) dribbled to set up his own off hand jumper with 2 seconds left, off, and the Oregon Wave grabbed the rebound as time expired, to secure the win.

Game 3 of best of 3 seriesTuesday July 28th at 7:00p.m. at Gilbert Sports Arena, Cal Lutheran

Radiogames can be heard on Los Angeles radio (KVTA 1520 AM, KKZZ 1440 AM) or at www.lalightning.net

VISITORS: Oregon Waves 16-8
TOT-FG 3-PT REBOUNDS
## Player Name FG-FGA FG-FGA FT-FTA OF DE TOT PF TP A TO BLK S MIN
1 Lamar Hurd (6'4''-G-83, college: Oregon St.).......... * 5-8 1-4 1-2 1 4 5 1 12 6 2 0 1 33
13 Robert Day.......... * 11-17 8-14 2-3 1 8 9 6 32 4 5 0 3 29
33 David Jackson....... * 2-17 2-12 3-5 1 1 2 2 9 4 1 0 0 28
42 Isaiah Fox (6'9''-C-83, college: Arizona).......... * 7-12 0-0 2-2 3 4 7 5 16 0 1 2 1 33
44 Mike Johnson........ * 5-7 0-0 5-6 4 4 8 1 15 1 0 0 0 27
20 Dominique Deweese... 1-6 0-3 1-2 0 4 4 2 3 3 1 3 0 23
30 David Lucas......... 5-7 0-1 3-6 2 2 4 6 13 2 3 0 0 22
32 Irvin Sims.......... 3-4 0-0 0-0 3 1 4 1 6 0 0 0 0 16
8 J.S. Nash........... 1-3 0-1 0-0 1 2 3 0 2 7 5 0 1 29
TEAM................ 2 1 3 1
Totals.............. 40-81 11-35 17-26 18 31 49 24 108 27 19 5 6 240

TOTAL FG% 1st Half: 17-40 42.5% 2nd Half: 23-41 56.1% Game: 49.4% DEADB
3-Pt. FG% 1st Half: 3-17 17.6% 2nd Half: 8-18 44.4% Game: 31.4% REBS
F Throw % 1st Half: 7-10 70.0% 2nd Half: 10-16 62.5% Game: 65.4% 5

HOME TEAM: LA Lightning 17-5
TOT-FG 3-PT REBOUNDS
## Player Name FG-FGA FG-FGA FT-FTA OF DE TOT PF TP A TO BLK S MIN
15 Toby Bailey (6'6''-G/F-75, college: UCLA)......... * 8-14 3-5 1-1 2 3 5 3 20 7 4 0 1 39
20 Fred Vinson (6'4''-G-71, college: Georgia Tech)......... * 3-10 0-4 0-0 1 2 3 1 6 1 1 0 0 28
22 Darrick Martin...... * 9-14 3-4 3-5 0 5 5 2 24 7 6 0 1 34
30 Lamond Murray (6'7''-F-73, agency: Prossin Sports Management, college: California)....... * 8-16 2-6 6-7 1 3 4 3 24 2 0 0 0 36
5 Bryon Russell (6'7''-F-70, agency: Prossin Sports Management, college: Long Beach St.)....... * 3-8 3-7 1-2 3 3 6 3 10 1 2 0 2 31
11 Kamran Sufi......... 0-3 0-3 1-2 1 1 2 1 1 4 2 0 2 14
13 Trayvon Lathan...... 3-8 0-0 2-3 3 1 4 1 8 0 0 0 3 15
23 Billy Knight........ 2-6 0-1 0-0 1 1 2 0 4 1 0 0 0 9
24 Tony Strickland..... 0-2 0-0 0-0 1 0 1 0 0 0 0 0 0 4
32 Chris Ayer.......... 1-1 0-0 1-2 0 1 1 4 3 0 2 0 0 9
55 Adam Parada......... 3-3 0-0 1-2 4 5 9 4 7 0 1 1 0 21
TEAM................ 2 2 4
Totals.............. 40-85 11-30 16-24 19 27 46 22 107 23 18 1 9 240

TOTAL FG% 1st Half: 17-44 38.6% 2nd Half: 23-41 56.1% Game: 47.1% DEADB
3-Pt. FG% 1st Half: 4-16 25.0% 2nd Half: 7-14 50.0% Game: 36.7% REBS
F Throw % 1st Half: 4-5 80.0% 2nd Half: 12-19 63.2% Game: 66.7% 3

Technical fouls: Oregon Waves-None. LA Lightning-Darrick Martin.
Score by Periods 1st 2nd 3rd 4th Total
Oregon Waves.................. 22 22 34 30 - 108
LA Lightning.................. 24 18 30 35 - 107
Courtesy of IBL


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


Israel hold off Czech Republic in France - by Eurobasket News
Israel U18 - Czech Republic U18 78:60

Israeli U18 team secured an important win over Czech Republic at the European Championship in France. The victory helped Israel to 1-0 record in Classification Round Group G. Israel thus stepped closer to saving their place in Division A of the tournament for the next season. Israel used a 26:11 first quarter to clear off for good.
Carmel Bouchman (205-F-91) knocked down 10 points to trigger a 15:0 run from Israel in the first frame that gave them a 22:7 advantage. Rotemberg capped the quarter with two free throws as Israel enjoyed a 26:11 advantage. Israel went on a 7:0 rally at the start of the second quarter boosting the lead to 22 points. Czechs responded with 9:0 spurt of their own to stay in the game. Czech Republic cut the deficit to 11 points at halftime. Kriz, Hering and Jaromir Bohacik (195-F-92, agency: PPGroup) clipped the margin to just 4 points early in the third period. But Israel restored a safe cushion heading into the fourth term ahead by 11. Israel kept their opponents at bay throughout the final period and sealed the winning outcome at the end.
Nimrod Tishman (195-G-91) and Carmel Bouchman knocked down 18 points apiece for Israel. Karam Mashour (196-F-91) added 12 points and 9 rebounds in the win. Jaromir Bohacik responded with 14 points for Czech Republic. Vaclav Honomichl (186-G-92) delivered 11 points in the loss.

Israel U18: Nimrod Tishman 18, Carmel Bouchman 18, Karam Mashour 12
Czech Republic U18: Jaromir Bohacik 14, Vaclav Honomichl 11


Maccabi Tel-Aviv officially announces Anderson and Lasme - by Eurobasket News
Maccabi Tel-Aviv officially announced arrivals of Alan Anderson (198-G/F-82, college: Michigan St.) and Stephane Lasme (203-F-82, college: Massachusetts). Over the past month and a half there was many stories in media about their move to Israeli powerhouse, but the news is officially confirmed yesterday. Both players signed 1+1 deal with Maccabi, with the club having the option for the second year.
Alan Anderson played four years with Michigan State University in NCAA Division I. In 2005 he was drafted by Michigan Mayhem of CBA. That same year he was signed by Charlotte Bobcats in NBA where he played in 36 games averaging 5.8 points per game. For season 2007-2008 he signed with La Fortezza Bologna in Italy. At Bologna, in 29 games Anderson averaged 14.4 points, 4.9 rebounds and 1.6 steals per game. Anderson started season 2008-2009 in Triumph Lyubertsy in Russia but in January 2009 he moved to Cibona VIP Zagreb. He was one of the best players at Cibona where he averaged 18.4 points per game in 13 Adriatic League games. In Euroleague, he played 8 games recording 15.3 points, 4.8 rebounds and 2 assists and steals per game.
Originally Born in Gabon, Stephane Lasme moved to United States where he played for University of Massachusetts. In 2007 he was drafted by Golden State Warriors as 46th overall pick. In November 2007, Warriors cut him so he signed with NBDL Team Los Angeles D-Fenders. In March 2008, Miami Heat signed Lasme and he played 16 games for them averaging 5.2 points and 3.3 rebounds per game. Last season Lasme signed with Partizan Belgrade and exploded onto European scene. He helped Partizan win the national Cup, Serbian league title, Adriatic League title and also to reach Quarterfinals in Euroleague. In 18 Euroleague games Lasme posted averages of 11.1 points, 6.5 rebounds and 1.6 blocks per game.

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


Newcomers in Reggio Emilia and Scafati - by Eurobasket News
Reggio Emilia added Trent Plaisted (211-F/C-86, agency: Priority Sports, college: BYU) to their squad. The 23-year-old centre started the previous season with Angelico Biella but suffered a serious injury just two games into the championship and had to miss the reminder of the contest. Trent Plaisted is the Brigham Young University graduate. He averaged 15.6 points, 7.7 boards and 1.0 blocks per game for the Cougars in his senior year.
Giovanni Fattori (202-F-85) in the meantime moved to Scafati. The 24-year-old forward played for Osimo in A Dilettanti league last season. He averaged 10.9 points and 4.7 boards there.


Italy dominate Latvia at the start of Qualifying Round in France - by Eurobasket News
Italy U18 - Latvia U18 66:58

Italian U18 team posted the first win at the Qualifying Round of the European Championship in France. They hung on to topple Latvia in Group F tonight. Italy therefore improved at 1-2 record catching up with the Baltic team in the ladder.
Italy set the tone early going on a 12:2 run. The lead grew at 12 points late in the quarter before Antrops and Ansons capped it with 4 points in a row cutting the deficit. Italy tipped off the second quarter with six points in a row to take a 14-point lead. But Ugis Pinete (194-F-91) and Artjoms Butjankovs (201-C-91) allowed Latvia to get within 4 late in the half. Armands Osins (192-G-91) and Meiers knotted things up at 28 moments later. Riccardo Moraschini (195-G-91) crowned the half with a three-pointer as Italy headed into the second half up by 3 points 33:30.
The teams kept it close before Baldi, Achille Polonara (202-F-91) and Andrea De Nicolao (185-G-91) completed the third quarter with 6 points in a row piling up a 7-point advantage for the Azzurri. Mian and Baldi widened the gap to 11 points at the start of the fourth quarter. Freimanis revived the intrigue with two triples but Riccardo Moraschini matched the effort with 5 consecutive points giving Italy a decisive lead.
Riccardo Moraschini and Achille Polonara knocked down 14 points each to lead Italy. Andrea De Nicolao added 8 points for the winning side. Armands Osins managed 14 points and 8 boards for Latvia. Ugis Pinete had 11 points in the losing case.

Italy U18: Riccardo Moraschini 14, Achille Polonara 14, Andrea De Nicolao 8
Latvia U18: Armands Osins 14, Ugis Pinete 11


Italy wins Trentino Cup - by Gianni Pascucci
Italian National team defeated Purtugal, 83-72 in Day 3 of International Trentino Cup tournment, but it wasn't a so easy job. The host team, in fact, ended ahead 33-30 the first half and played an up-tempo game and a pressing defense almost all game long. Team Italy had a poor shooting accuracy and had to use experience and tough defense to prevail. Veteran Matteo Soragna (198-G/F-75) scored 13 points to lead the Azzurri, Marco Belinelli (196-G-86) added 13 pts he too, and Andrea Bargnani (209-F/C-85) scored 11 points together with the other inside oprator Angelo Gigli (209-F/C-83). With 15 and 14 pts, respectively, Miguel Miranda (205-F-78) and Joao Santos (205-C-79, college: Nevada) were the best at the losing side. Thanks to this win, Team Italy claimed Trentino Cup and looks to the Additional Round with some more optimism. On Tuesday, August 1, the Azzurri will play their last test match vs. Canada.

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


Japan ends William Jones Cup 2009 on the last place - by Eurobasket News
Taiwan 2nd NT - Japan 97-91

Japan faced with 91-97 defeat in the last day of the William Jones Cup 2009. The Japanese could not resist against the Taiwanese second National Team finishing this event on the last place with poor 1-7 record. Actually, Kazakhstan has the same numbers, but due to victory against Japan the Kazakhs avoided bottom. Japan failed in that match 70-75. The only victory Team Japan registered against Philippines 87-85. That was on Day 4. On the other side, Taiwan 2 joined Philippines with 2-6 record. However, the Taiwanese did not make it to position No.6 due to 90-94 defeat against PHI. Except of this win against Japan, Taiwan 2 also was better than Kazakhstan 82-69. That was on Day 5.
National Team of Iran is the winner of William Jones Cup 2009. They have teh best score in a unprecedented and bizarre four-way tie. A total of four teams tied at the first place with 14 points, including three that finished 6-2 -- Iran, Lebanon and Taiwan -- and Jordan, who only got 14 points despite finishing 7-1. Jordan received no points after boycotting the Iran game. (Note: The winning team gets two points while the losing team gets one point) As a result, Jordan failed to win its third straight Jones Cup title and finished as runner-up. Lebanon placed third as it beat Taiwan, who ranked 4th.



Final placing:

1. Iran 6-2
2. Jordan 7-1
3. Lebanon 6-2
4. Taiwan 6-2
5. Korea 5-3
6. Philippines 2-6
7. Taiwan 2nd NT 2-6
8. Kazakhstan 1-7
9. Japan 1-7


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


Jordan outplays Kazakhstan, ends as No.2 on WJC despite most wins - by Eurobasket News
Jordan - Kazakhstan 96-77

National Team of Jordan demonstrated the best performance of all teams at the William Jones Cup 2009. Actually, Jordan finished this contest with 7 victories in 8 games, but that was not enough for defending the title. Iran is the new champion with one win less than Jordan (6-2). The reason of such strange final order is the game between Iran and Jordan, which ended with fight and officially 20-0 win for Iran. So Jordan (7-1), Iran (6-2), Taiwan (6-2) and Lebanon (6-2) finished this event with 14 points each. In this magic circle Iran has the best numbers, mostly thanks to above mentioned 20-0 against Jordan. So Iran is first, Jordan with most wins is second, Lebanon third and Taiwan fourth.
Zaid Abbas (203-F-83) once again shined for Jordan leading them to victory against Kazakhstan with 23 points. In the loosing squad Alexandr Tyutyunik (197-G-90) shined with 26 pts. Almost in all games on this Cup Abbas was the best player in Jordan. Mostly owing to him they registered the best score of all teams, but unluckily failed to grab its third straight title on WJC.
Kazakhstan finished the contest with juts one win in 8 games. However, that was enough to avoid the last place. Japan is the last ranked team with 1-7, due to 70-75 loss against the Kazakhs.

Jordan: Zaid Abbas 23
Kazakhstan: Alexandr Tyutyunik 26

*****************************************************
  KAZAKHSTAN   


Jordan outplays Kazakhstan, ends as No.2 on WJC despite most wins - by Eurobasket News
Jordan - Kazakhstan 96-77

National Team of Jordan demonstrated the best performance of all teams at the William Jones Cup 2009. Actually, Jordan finished this contest with 7 victories in 8 games, but that was not enough for defending the title. Iran is the new champion with one win less than Jordan (6-2). The reason of such strange final order is the game between Iran and Jordan, which ended with fight and officially 20-0 win for Iran. So Jordan (7-1), Iran (6-2), Taiwan (6-2) and Lebanon (6-2) finished this event with 14 points each. In this magic circle Iran has the best numbers, mostly thanks to above mentioned 20-0 against Jordan. So Iran is first, Jordan with most wins is second, Lebanon third and Taiwan fourth.
Zaid Abbas (203-F-83) once again shined for Jordan leading them to victory against Kazakhstan with 23 points. In the loosing squad Alexandr Tyutyunik (197-G-90) shined with 26 pts. Almost in all games on this Cup Abbas was the best player in Jordan. Mostly owing to him they registered the best score of all teams, but unluckily failed to grab its third straight title on WJC.
Kazakhstan finished the contest with juts one win in 8 games. However, that was enough to avoid the last place. Japan is the last ranked team with 1-7, due to 70-75 loss against the Kazakhs.

Jordan: Zaid Abbas 23
Kazakhstan: Alexandr Tyutyunik 26

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


Italy dominate Latvia at the start of Qualifying Round in France - by Eurobasket News
Italy U18 - Latvia U18 66:58

Italian U18 team posted the first win at the Qualifying Round of the European Championship in France. They hung on to topple Latvia in Group F tonight. Italy therefore improved at 1-2 record catching up with the Baltic team in the ladder.
Italy set the tone early going on a 12:2 run. The lead grew at 12 points late in the quarter before Antrops and Ansons capped it with 4 points in a row cutting the deficit. Italy tipped off the second quarter with six points in a row to take a 14-point lead. But Ugis Pinete (194-F-91) and Artjoms Butjankovs (201-C-91) allowed Latvia to get within 4 late in the half. Armands Osins (192-G-91) and Meiers knotted things up at 28 moments later. Riccardo Moraschini (195-G-91) crowned the half with a three-pointer as Italy headed into the second half up by 3 points 33:30.
The teams kept it close before Baldi, Achille Polonara (202-F-91) and Andrea De Nicolao (185-G-91) completed the third quarter with 6 points in a row piling up a 7-point advantage for the Azzurri. Mian and Baldi widened the gap to 11 points at the start of the fourth quarter. Freimanis revived the intrigue with two triples but Riccardo Moraschini matched the effort with 5 consecutive points giving Italy a decisive lead.
Riccardo Moraschini and Achille Polonara knocked down 14 points each to lead Italy. Andrea De Nicolao added 8 points for the winning side. Armands Osins managed 14 points and 8 boards for Latvia. Ugis Pinete had 11 points in the losing case.

Italy U18: Riccardo Moraschini 14, Achille Polonara 14, Andrea De Nicolao 8
Latvia U18: Armands Osins 14, Ugis Pinete 11


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


Simas Jasaitis to choose between Spain and Turkey - by Eurobasket News
Recently several teams have expressed their interest in Lithuanian forward Simas Jasaitis (202-F/G-82). Now it seems that Jasaitis has narrowed down his options and he is currently considering two offers, one from Spain and one from Turkey. Reportedly Jasaitis is currently deciding whether to sign with recently promoted Alicante in Spanish ACB League. On the other hand, he has also received an offer from Turkish Galatasaray, which is also appealing to Lithuanian International. As it was recently reported, it seems that Galatasaray has a slight edge on its competition from Spain, as they seem to have offered better conditions for one-year deal. Jasaitis, who spent last season with DKV Joventut is expected to make the decision in the coming days.
Simas Jasaitis singed his first professional contract in 2001 with Sakalai Vilnius. Following season he moved to Lietuvos Ritas where he played for 5 seasons. During that time, he has won 2 league titles in 2002 and 2006 as well as ULEB Cup in 2005. In his last season with the club in 2005, Jasaitis averaged 10.7 ppg and 5.0 rpg in 20 Euroleague games. This was enough for him to attract interest from European powerhouses, and in 2006 he signed 3-year deal with Maccabi Tel Aviv. In his first season with the club, he has won national title, averaging 11.8 ppg and 3.3 rpg in 26 League games. Following season, Jasaitis was signed by Spanish Tau Cermiaca with whom he has won the double in 2008. Last season, he moved again this time signing with DKV Juventud. In 34 League games, Jasaitis averaged 8.9 ppg and 3.2 rpg. He is also a member of Lithuanian National Team, having participated at 2008 Olympic Games in Beijing.

Lithuania thump Bulgaria at U18 European Championship - by Eurobasket News
Lithuania U18 - Bulgaria U18 91:40

Lithuania extended their unbeaten run at the U18 European Championship in France. The Baltic team posted the fourth straight victory at the tournament today. They outclassed Bulgaria to open the Qualifying Round action. Lithuania thus improved at 3-0 record in Group F, while Bulgaria fell at 0-3.
Lithuania shocked Bulgaria early in the game going on a 16:3 run. Lithuania rolled to a 21:11 lead at the first break. Saulius Kulvietis (204-F-91) scored quick five points for Lithuania in the second period boosting the lead at 14 points. A Marius Linartas team capped the half with 9 straight points to enjoy a 41:23 lead. Bulgaria looked hapless in the second half as Lithuania continued their onslaught. They ballooned the gap to as many as 38 points heading into the fourth term. The Lithuanian team cruised to the victory at the end.
Saulius Kulvietis knocked down 18 points to pace Lithuania. Osvaldas Matulionis (199-F-91) added 16 points in the win. Darin Ivanov (181-G-91) responded with 8 points for Bulgaria. Hristo Gospodinov (199-F-92, agency: Interperformances) and Emil Binev (198-F-91) had 6 points each in the losing effort.

Lithuania U18: Saulius Kulvietis 18, Osvaldas Matulionis 16, Ovidijus Varanauskas (186-G-91) 14
Bulgaria U18: Darin Ivanov 8, Hristo Gospodinov 6, Emil Binev 6


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


Kevin Magdowski is the new Head Coach at Avanti Mondorf - by Daniel Poerschke
German coach Kevin Magdowski is the new head man at Avanti Mondorf in the 2nd League in Luxemburg for the upcoming season. Magdowski is no stranger to Luxemburg basketball, as he was the head coach at D1 club Walferdange for the last one and a half seasons. He also served as the head coach for the countries U-16 Men national team in 2008. Before that Magdowski worked as the head coach for a couple of years in the Regionalliga in Germany.
The club is also close to announce the signing of their new import player for next season and an announcement will be made later this week.

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


NBA - NBA D-League Coach/Scout Scott Chinarian - LNBP Showcase - by Chris Terrell
San Diego, CA - The 2009 En Fuego Hoops LNBP Showcase has added the talents of Scott Chinarian to the all-star list of coaches for next month in San Diego. Chinarian brings his vast coaching and scouting experience with the Charlotte Bobcats and Bakersfield Jam. Coach Chinarian has spent the past 3 years working in the NBA and the NBA Developmental League. Last season Scott served as the Director of Basketball Operations as well as serving as Assistant Coach-Player Development for the NBA D-League Bakersfield Jam. Job duties in the D-League included advance scouting, game planning as well as assisting with the skill development, aiding the team to its first winning season as well as its first playoff appearance in the NBA Developmental League. Prior to his experience in the Developmental league Coach Chinarian served as a Scout for the Charlotte Bobcats (NBA). Among the responsibilities for the Bobcats were to provide the coaching staff with detailed scouting information on players within the organization as well as opponents and was heavily involved in preparation for the NBA draft. Prior to making the jump to the NBA, Chinarian served as an assistant at UNLV where he worked for former NBA head Coach Lon Kruger and College Basketball coaching legend Charlie Spoonhour.

'Coach C's passion is in the development of the player. He has helped work out NBA and International players such as Louis Amundson (205-F-82, agency: Priority Sports, college: UNLV) (Phoenix Suns), Joel Anthony (206-C-82, college: UNLV) (Miami Heat), Romel Beck (203-G/F-82, agency: Interperformances, college: UNLV) (Currently in NBA Summer w/ San Antonio Spurs), Primoz Brezec (216-F/C-79) (Charlotte Bobcats), Chauncey Billups (191-G-76, college: Colorado) (Denver Nuggets), Mateen Cleaves (188-G-77, agency: Pro One Sports, college: Michigan St.) (Sacramento Kings), Dale Davis (211-C/F-69, college: Clemson) (Indiana - Portland), Jeff McInnis (192-G-74, college: N.Carolina) (Clippers-Bobcats), Raymond Felton (194-G-84, college: N.Carolina) (Charlotte Bobcats) to name a few. He is exactly the type of coach that we want working with guys for the LNBP. These types of coaches will also help players Internationally and Domestically.' - Coach Chris Terrell, Director of Basketball Operations www.enfuegohoops.com - www.latinbasket.com


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


Ivan Koljevic lands in BC Bornova - by Eurobasket News
In order to be the good representative in the Turkish TBL BC Bornova signed Ivan Koljevic (186-G-84). The latter will be a great foreigner in the team and should help them in the next season.
Ivan Koljevic has experience in European local championship as well as in Euroleague, ULEB Cup and FIBA EuroCup. In 2002-2003 he played for Buducnost Podgorica and in Euroleague appeared in 14 games averaging 8.9ppg, 1.5rpg, 1.2apg. In 2004-2005: BC Buducnost Podgorica participated in ULEB Cup and Ivan played in 10 games averaging 12,4ppg, 2.0rpg, 4.0apg, FGP: 44.8%, 3Pts: 34.7%. In Adriatic League in 27 games he showed 14.1ppg, 1.7rpg, 2.6apg, 1.0spg, FGP: 44.9%, 3Pts: 37.4%, FreeThrows-1 (92.7%). From 2005 up to 2009 he played in Spain, Greece, Russia, Lithuania and Ukraine.
In 2007 together with the Lithuanian Lietuvos Rytashe defended their title beating Zalgiris again in the Final. After a second place in ULEB Cup, Rytas desired only the first place in BBL. They fantastically managed to do this with 81:77 win.
Last season Ivan Koljevic played for SK Cherkasy Monkeys in Ukraine-UBL. He played in 37 games and averaged 16.1ppg, 2.1rpg, 3.5apg, 1.1spg, FGP: 46.4%, 3PT: 42.8%, FT-1 (93.3%)
In the last game for the Ukrainian team Laimis Kiselius, Stanislav Balashov and Aleh Kojenets scored 20 points each as Ferro-ZNTU dropped Cherkasy in the regular season finale 92:80. Jason Fontenet added 19 points and 5 assists for the winners as they clinched the 15th victory. Miljan Pupovic responded with 21 points and 8 boards for Cherkasy in defeat and Ivan Koljevic had 7. In one of the games he recorded 40 points against Budivelnik for 90:82 victory.

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


Spurs sign center Theo Ratliff - by Eurobasket News
The San Antonio Spurs have signed center Theo Ratliff (6'10''-F/C-73, college: Wyoming).

Terms of the deal announced Saturday were not disclosed.

The 6-foot-10 Ratliff spent last season with the Philadelphia 76ers, averaging 1.9 points, 2.6 rebounds and 1.02 blocks in 12.6 minutes while appearing in 46 games.

Ratliff has also played for Detroit, Atlanta, Portland, Boston and Minnesota during 14 NBA seasons.

Ratliff was a second-team selection to two NBA All-Defensive teams (1998-99, 2003-04). He is also one of seven players in NBA history to lead the league in blocks in at least three seasons (2000-01, 2002-03 and 2003-04).

He ranks 18th all-time in total blocks (1,902) and is fifth among active players.

Courtesy of www.chron.com


Memphis Grizzlies renounce qualifying offer to Hakim Warrick - by Eurobasket News
The Memphis Grizzlies have renounced their qualifying offer to forward Hakim Warrick (6'9''-F-82, college: Syracuse), making him an unrestricted free agent, Grizzlies General Manager and Vice President of Basketball Operations Chris Wallace announced.

Warrick, the team's longest-tenured player and the last remaining member of the Grizzlies most-recent playoff appearance in 2006, averaged 11.6 points and 5.0 rebounds. He had 49.1 percent on shooting in 82 games (seven starts) last season.

The 6-9, 219-pound forward has averaged 10.2 points and 4.3 rebounds in 307 games (82 starts) through four NBA seasons, all with the Grizzlies. They originally selected him with the 19th overall pick in the 2005 NBA Draft.

In accordance with the leagues collective bargaining agreement, in order for a team to retain its right of first refusal with respect to a restricted free agent, the team must tender the player a qualifying offer prior to June 30. After which, teams may withdraw outstanding qualifying offers, in which case a player becomes an unrestricted free agent.

Courtesy of www.insidehoops.com


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


Bartow gets extension to coach ETSU through 2013-14 - by Eurobasket News
Murray Bartow has been given a two-year contract extension as head basketball coach at East Tennessee State University. The school said in a news release Thursday that his contract now runs through the end of the 2013-14 season. Bartow, in six seasons at ETSU, has a 118-72 record. He led the Bucs to conference championships in 2004, 2007 and 2009, along with trips to the NCAA Tournament in 2004 and 2009, and a berth in the NIT in 2007. 'There is still more we can do,' Bartow said in a statement released by the university. He's the son of longtime college coach legend Gene Bartow.

Meanwhile, Florida State is back in court -- suing the NCAA. The school said Friday its wants the NCAA to pay its legal fees and other costs incurred in a suit filed against the university and the athletic governing body for failing to comply with Florida's public records law. General counsel Betty Steffen said it has been technically impossible for the school to make records in the case public because an NCAA website prohibits downloading or printing. The lawsuit to force the release of documents in the university's appeal of some NCAA sanctions in an academic cheating case is scheduled for a two-day hearing beginning Aug. 5. The Associated Press and other newspaper and broadcast companies are suing the school and NCAA.

Courtesy of www.cbssports.com


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


New Zealand unable to match Italy - by Eurobasket News
New Zealand - Italy 70:88

New Zealand played their second game at the Trentino Cup in Italy. They faced the hosts and succumbed an 18-point defeat. Italy opened the game confidently rolling in front. New Zealand struggled to keep close in the starting stanza trailing by 15 points at the first intermission. The hosts boosted the margin to 20 points midway through the second frame. But the Tall Blacks responded with 11 straight points to get within 9. But Marco Belinelli (196-G-86) helped the Azzurri to a 14-point halftime lead. The hosts kept the Kiwis at bay in the third frame. Italy entered the final quarter ahead by 18 points. The Tall Blacks got no closer losing the battle at the end.
Marco Belinelli scored 20 points to pace the Azzurri. Valerio Amoroso (202-F-80) added 16 points in the win. Kirk Penney (194-G-80, college: Wisconsin) unloaded 28 points for the Tall Blacks. Lindsay Tait (194-G-82) added 10 points in defeat.
New Zealand will face Canada today.

New Zealand: Kirk Penney 28, Lindsay Tait 10, Thomas Abercrombie (198-G/f-87, college: Washington St.) 9
Italy: Marco Belinelli 20, Valerio Amoroso 16


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


Libya 2009 Afrobasket: NBBF shortlists 16 players for Libya - by Olusegun Ikuesan
After a grueling camping exercise in the United States of America the coaching crew of the senior men national team led by John Harding Lucas-II have short listed twelve players from the USA camp and four from the camp conducted in Kaduna, Nigeria the team assistant coach, Sani Ahmed.

The twelve foreign-based players includes, Joshua Akognon, Michael Umeh, Michael Efevberha, Ebikekeme Ere, Jayson Obazuaye, Gabe Muoneke, Ejike Ugbaja, Aloysius Anagonye, Ayodeji Akindele, Benson Egemonye, Akinlolu Akingbala and Chamberlain Oguchi while the four home-based players are former team captain, Abdulrahman Mohammed of Nigeria Customs basketball club, Abubakar Usman of Niger Potters, Stanley Gumut of Niger Potters and Ibrahim Yusuf of Kano Pillars basketball club.

The president of the NBBF, Tijjani Umar says all sixteen players will be accorded equal chance of vying for a place in the final 12-man list that will fly the country flag in Libya.

The team is expected to have its final work-out in Abuja on Wednesday (July 29).

Imeh Udoka, formerly of the San Antonio Spurs who is now a free agent is waiting in the wings while he sorts out his next career move, meanwhile the team will now be hosted to a farewell dinner in Abuja on Friday and fly out to Libya at the weekend.

Nigeria is in Group-A alongside host, Libya, Cote dIvoire and South Africa for her first round matches.

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


Estonia U18 finished Group A with 4-1 record - by Eurobasket News
Norway U18-Estonia U18 71:74 OT

Estonia U18 finished Group A with 4-1 record after an overtime battle over Norway U18. The Baltic side overcame Norway 74:71 due to 11-8 in overtime.
Schoenning opened the game for the Norwegian team and Magnus Engen (188-F-91) made it 8:2. Estonia was able to tie the game at 11:11, however Norway posted two for 13:11 at the end of the first period. In the second period Norway played even better and had 33:18 for the biggest lead. Kaldre made a jump shot for 35:26 at the halftime. Jawara with a lay-up increased the lead to 46:30, while Mattia Bradascio (208-C-91) netted for 50:34. Norway however could not score until the rest of the frame and remained scoreless for more than three minutes. Kaldre closed 9-0 run for the Estonian team for 50:44.
Estonia was able to bounce back with 19-13 in the fourth period as Berg made it 63:63 before the overtime. Estonia produced 11-8 in the extra time for 74:71 victory as Puidet closed the game with a fabulous dunk.
Rannar Raap (187-G-92) collected 21 points and 10 rebounds for the fourth win. Martin Limberg (197-F-91) nailed 14, while Rain Veideman (192-G-91) had 13. Magnus Engen ended up with 22 points in the losing case, while Berg and Mattia Bradascio nailed 13 apiece.

Norway U18: Magnus Engen 22, Berg 13, Mattia Bradascio 13
Estonia U18: Rannar Raap 21+10 rebs, Martin Limberg 14, Rain Veideman 13

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


2009 PBA Draft Prospects - by Josh Villegas
Top 5 Prospects:

Japeth Aguilar (206-C-87, college: W.Kentucky)
The most coveted player in the draft. Burger King has made it clear that they plan to pick him at first overall. Has a strong chance to play in the NBDL, but choose to join the PBA draft and purse a career meant for stardom in the Philippines. Athleticism is off the charts. At 6'9, he can play the 4-5 positions with ease but can develop into a versatile small forward if he improves his perimeter game.

Chris Ross (185-G-85, agency: Tank Sports, college: Marshall)
This guard from Marshall U brings a combination of on-court savvy and toughness at the one-guard position. A great rebounder for a guard and a gem on the defensive end. Free throw shooting and perimeter game still need some fine-tuning. But once he improves that facet of his game, he's going to be hard to stop. And thats an understatement.

Rico Maierhofer (193-C-85)
Long. Athletic. Versatile. He can play the 3-5 positions. Not as athletic as Aguilar but still an interesting prospect. Not much of a post game but has range that extends to the 3-point area. He has the makings of a defensive stopper both in the perimeter and at the post.

Jervy Cruz (193-F/C-86)
A bull in the paint. Though at 6'4, hes still undersized at the power forward position. Many doubt if he can be effective in the PBA, but this former UAAP MVP can be serviceable big man and once he lands into a team that needs an inside presence.

Chris Timberlake (180-G-85, college: N.Florida)
Great handles and crisp passing ability is what Timberlake brings. This guard from the University of North Florida just capped his PBL stint by winning the finals MVP. He brings stability at the one position and he can create opportunities for himself and his teammates.


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


Poland U18 remains undefeated - by Eurobasket News
Slovak Republic U18-Poland U18 68:85

Poland U18 reached Sweden in Group B at 3-0 record at the U18 European Championship. The Polish side overcame Slovak Republic in the last game of Sunday 85:68.
Slovak Republic opened the scoring account in the game, while Poland grabbed the lead after Sebastian Szymanski (184-G-91)'s shot. Sokolowski closed the opening quarter at 15:11 for Poland. The tempo as definitely increased in the second frame as Poland was able to score 25 points. Slovak Republic ended up with 16 and the difference was 13 points at the halftime. Kopf scored the last three points in the half as Poland had 40:27 advantage. Richard Grznar (187-G-91) netted five in a row to reduce for 50:41 midway through the third period. Poland however made another push for 64:48 after three quarters. A 9-0 run in the middle of the last stanza brought Slovakia within 62:68, but they could not keep the push. Poland managed to rearrange and also won the last period 21-20 for the total success. Leszczynski closed the game for the winners from the free throw line.
Robert Magnuszewski (193-F-91) and Sebastian Szymanski top-scored for the winners with 20 points each. Richard Grznar ended up with 20 points in the losing effort, while Martin Floris (195-F-91) added 14.
In another game of the group Sweden U18 keep the perfect record after 76:62 victory over Iceland U18. The Scandinavian team needed 26-10 to win the third straight game at the U18 European Championship Men 2009 Division B.

Slovak Republic U18: Richard Grznar 20, Martin Floris 14
Poland U18: Robert Magnuszewski 20, Sebastian Szymanski 20

Sweden wins over Poland in Sarajevo as both teams head to the Qualifying Round - by Eurobasket News
Poland U18-Sweden U18 69:81

Sweden wins over Poland in Sarajevo as both teams head to the Qualifying Round of U18 European Championship. The Scandinavian team overcame Polish side 81:69 to win the group with 4-0 record. Poland meanwhile advanced with 3-1 as they tasted the only loss.
Person gave Sweden the first lead and then Hampton scored for 16:12. Wierzbicki posted for 16:16 and Jakub Parzenski (209-C-91) gave Poland 23:20 after the opening quarter. Sweden bounced back and Christopher Czerapowicz (197-F-91) scored for 33:28 midway through the second frame. The Scandinavian team was very productive in the period and nailed 30 points for 50:37 advantage. Sweden was too good also after the big break and had 68:47 when Daniel Persson (198-G-91) made a jump shot. Person closed the third period for 71:49 as there was not more intrigue left in the court. Although Poland finished the game with 20-10 it gave them only 69:81 loss and the first upset in the tournament.
Christopher Czerapowicz top-scored for the winners with 21 points for the undefeated record. Daniel Persson nailed 15, while Person and Gaddefors scored 9 each. Sebastian Szymanski (186-G-91) and Jakub Parzenski delivered 14 points each in defeat.
In another game of the day Finland beat Slovak Republic 83:57. The Finnish side is third in the group with 2-2 record, while Slovak Republic finished winless.

Poland U18: Sebastian Szymanski 14, Jakub Parzenski 14
Sweden U18: Christopher Czerapowicz 21, Daniel Persson 15, Person 9, Gaddefors 9

Brody Angley and Tony Weeden bolster Polpharma squad - by Eurobasket News
Polpharma Starogard Gdynia added two imports to the roster. Tony Weeden (186-G-83, college: Chicago St.) and Brody Angley (180-G-86) signed contracts with the DBE team.
Brody Angley moved to Poland from Switzerland. The 23-year-old guard spent a nice season with SAM Massagno averaging 16.0 points, 4.4 assists and 4.3 boards per game in the LNA.
Tony Weeden arrived to Polpharma from from BPS Basket Kwidzyn. There the 26-year-old guard scored 14.5 points, grabbed 1.7 boards and issued 1.4 assists per game.


Adam Wojcik and Kamil Chanas join Turow - by Eurobasket News
Adam Wojcik (207-F-70, agency: Beo Basket) signed a contract with Turow Zgorzelec. The veteran forward spent the last season in PBG Basket. He averaged 16.1 points and 4.6 boards per game for the team. Adam Wojcik played for the Polish National Team at the European Championship in Spain in 2007.
Turow also inked Kamil Chanas (188-G-85). The 24-year-old guard played for Victoria Gornik. There he tallied 10.3 points and 1.7 boards per appearance. He was invited to the training camp of the Polish National team this summer.


Anwil land Kevyn Green - by Eurobasket News
Kevyn Green (196-F-85) has become the new player of Anwil Wloclawek. The player was spotted by Anwil head coach Igor Griszczuk during the US visit. The 24-year-old forward just graduated from Southeastern Louisiana University. There Kevyn Green averaged 19.2 points, 3.2 boards and 1.3 assists per game in his senior year. He was named to All-Southland Conference 2nd Team in 2008.


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


Standings - LPB
LPB Standings
 1. Benfica 0-0 
 2. Ovarense 0-0 
 3. Porto Ferpinta 0-0 
 4. Barreirense 0-0 
 5. Fisica 0-0 
 6. Illiabum 0-0 
 7. Ginasio 0-0 
 8. CAB 0-0 
 9. Academica 0-0 
 10. Sampaense 0-0 
 11. VSC Guimar. 0-0 
 12. AD Vagos 0-0 


Standings - Proliga
Proliga Standings
 1. Seixal 0-0 
 2. Terceira Basket 0-0 
 3. Sangalhos 0-0 
 4. Povoa 0-0 
 5. Lusitania 0-0 
 6. Angra 0-0 
 7. Electrico FC 0-0 
 8. Barcelos 0-0 
 9. A.Musical 0-0 
 10. Galitos FC 0-0 
 11. Maia Basket 0-0 
 12. Penafiel 0-0 


England add pain to Portugal in Sarajevo - by Eurobasket News
England U18 - Portugal U18 88:79

English U18 team posted the fourth straight win at the European Championship in Division B. They held off Portugal today to remain on top of Group D. Portugal on the other hand suffered the fourth defeat in a row falling deeper. Joshua Houghton (189-G-91) punished Portugal with 31 points.
Carlos Ferreirinho (200-F-91) nailed 11 points in the starting to keep Portugal hopeful. They led by two points at the first pause 19:17. Pereira hit a three-pointer to start a 9:0 rally from England midway through the second quarter as they grabbed a 30:23 advantage. Joshua Houghton capped the half with 5 points in a row to give England a 44:36 advantage.
Joshua Houghton opened the second half with a trey to pull England up by 11 points. The lead grew at 17 points before Portugal reacted. Azevedo allowed Portugal to trail by just 8 points heading into the fourth term. Carlos Ferreirinho drained a triple as Portugal got within 5 early in the fourth stanza. Carlos Ferreirinho continued to score narrowing the gap to slender two points. But Levi Noel (197-G-91) knocked down 13 points in the final five and a half minutes to seal the winning outcome for England.
Levi Noel finished with 19 points, 10 boards and 6 assists for England. Ryan Martin (210-F-91) added 11 points and 9 caroms for the winners. Carlos Ferreirinho responded with 32 points for Portugal. Miguel Queiroz (201-F-91) notched 11 points and 7 boards in defeat.

England U18: Joshua Houghton 31, Levi Noel 19+10 boards, Ryan Martin 11
Portugal U18: Carlos Ferreirinho 32, Miguel Queiroz 11


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


Quebradillas grabs thriller win against Bayamon for 1-0 lead in BSN Final - by Eurobasket News
Bayamon - Quebradillas 75-77
The Pirates grabbed tiny 77-75 win against Bayamon for 1-0 lead in the BSN Finals. It was extremely exciting game decided at the very end. With 30 seconds to go Peter John Ramos (222-C-85) of Quebradillas made two free throws for 75-72 lead. Bayamon did not give up and Christian Dalmau (194-G-77, agency: Paris Global Sports, college: Daytona Beach CC) responded with triple tying the score with 10 seconds remaining. The Pirates had the possession and Clifford Hammonds (191-G-85, college: Clemson) became a game hero making it twice from the line. The arena erupted as the Pirates grabbed valuable win in the first meeting of the Final Series. Peter John Ramos was the best player in victory registering monster double-double, 21 points and 15 rebounds. Shawn Redhage (202-F-81, agency: Warren Sports International, college: Arizona St.) followed him with 20, while Clifford Hammonds added 15 pts. Joel Jones (196-G/F-81, agency: Paris Global Sports, college: Sacramento St.) helped with 12 points and 13 boards. On the other side, Bayamon got the most from Christian Dalmau - 19 pts, 6 assists and 5 boards. Carmelo Lee (201-F-77, agency: Paris Global Sports, college: Long Beach St.) stopped on 14 pts. Quebradillas finished the match with 33, while Bayamon had 29 rebounds.
Second game of the final series is scheduled for today. As a reminder, it is best-of-seven system.

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


Netherlands U18 advanced to the Qualifying Round - by Eurobasket News
Netherlands U18-Romania U18 83:72

Netherlands U18 advanced to the Qualifying Round of the U18 European Championship. The Dutch team produced 83:72 over winless Romania to send them to 0-4.
The favorites opened the game with 4:0, but Romania replied with 11-0 run. Dimeo Van Der Horst (195-G/F-91) tied the game at 11:11, while Williams brought the Dutch team 22:16 after the first 10 minutes. Romania was able to post another 16 points in the second quarter, but Netherlands proposed 20. Corpodean sent the teams to the big break for 42:32 after the first half. Jeroen van Vugt (192-G-91) made it 55:40 midway through the third period and Mulder's lay-up brought 57:42. Jeroen van Vugt was the last to score in the third period for 61:46. Romania meanwhile was able to win the last frame and had 26-22 in it. Bogdan Tibirna (207-C-91) made a lay-up for the final 83:72 margin on the board.
Dimeo Van Der Horst top-scored for the winners with 17 points for 3-1 record. Jeroen van Vugt nailed 16, whilst Quincy Treffers (200-F-91) and Padberg added 9 apiece. Bogdan Tibirna finished the game with 19 points in defeat and Iosif Parlog (194-F-92) added 11. The next games both teams will play on July 29th after the day-off.

Netherlands U18: Dimeo Van Der Horst 17, Jeroen van Vugt 16, Quincy Treffers 9, Padberg 9
Romania U18: Bogdan Tibirna 19, Iosif Parlog 11

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


Enes Kanter carries Turkey past Russia - by Eurobasket News
Turkey U18 - Russia U18 72:70

Turkish U18 team secured the fourth straight win at the European Championship in France. Earlier today they nipped Russia at the start of the Qualifying Round in Group F. Thus Turkey improved at 3-0 record in the pool, sending Russia at 1-2. Turkey wasted their 12-point advantage in the final stanza to play extra period. They however managed to pull together before escaping with a narrow victory at the end.
Turkey entered the game confidently going for eight unanswered points at the start. Russia used an 8:2 run late in the period to jump in front before Safak Edge (185-G-92) gave Turkey a 19:18 lead after ten minutes of action. Caliskan scored 7 points in a low-scoring second frame allowing Turkey to pile up a 35:29 advantage at halftime. Safak Edge and Can Maxim Mutaf (193-G-91) ensured a 10-point lead for Turkey early in the third quarter. Russia could not get any closer and faced a 12-point deficit into the fourth term. However Dmitry Kulagin (195-G-92) drained a three-pointer triggering a 10:2 rally from Russia as they got within 5. Mikhail Nabotov (202-C-91) and Dmitry Kulagin drew things level and forced overtime. But it was Enes Kanter (206-C-92) who took over in the extra period. He knocked down 5 free throws and Turkey ran away for the victory at the end.
Enes Kanter delivered 19 points and 22 rebounds to orchestrate the win. Can Maxim Mutaf added 15 points, while Safak Edge dropped 14. Mikhail Nabotov responded with 12 points for Russia. Alexander Burtsev (195-G-91) finished with 11 points and 9 boards in the loss.

Turkey U18: Enes Kanter 19+22 boards, Can Maxim Mutaf 15, Safak Edge 14
Russia U18: Mikhail Nabotov 12, Alexander Burtsev 11


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


Serbia post first win in Qualifying Round in France - by Eurobasket News
Serbia U18 - Germany U18 89:68

Serbia clinched the first win in Group E of the U18 European Championship in France. They held off German opponents to improve at 2-1 record in the pool. Germany slipped at 0-3 after the defeat. Danilo Andjusic (190-G-91, agency: Beo Basket) stepped up with game-high 26 points to pace Serbia. He unloaded impressive 8/10 three-pointers en route to an outstanding result.
Dejan Musli (214-C-91) and Nikola Rondovic (205-F-91) led Serbia to a 15:0 lead at the start of the game. Germany struggled to come back to life in the opening stanza as Serbia posted a 28:13 lead after ten minutes. Germany reignited the game with a 15:2 run at the start of the second quarter. Andujic drained one of his triples just on time to give Serbia some breathing space and the Balkan team secured a 35:31 advantage at halftime.
Barthel however put Germany up early in the third frame. The lead changed hands for a couple of times throughout the stanza before Andujic and Djekic gave Serbia a 63:57 lead into the fourth quarter. The Serbian team went on a 7:0 run at the beginning of the final frame to earn a 13-point advantage. This proved too much for Germany as they never recovered.
Dejan Musli finished with 17 points and 17 rebounds for Serbia. Nikola Rondovic added 15 points and 9 boards in the win. Philipp Neumann (210-C-92) had 20 points for Germany. Mathis Monninghoff (198-G-92) chipped in 11 points in the loss.

Serbia U18: Danilo Andjusic 26, Dejan Musli 17+17 boards, Nikola Rondovic 15
Germany U18: Philipp Neumann 20, Mathis Monninghoff 11


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


Finland and Slovakia finish Group B in Bosnia - by Eurobasket News
Finland U18-Slovak Republic U18 83:57

Finland beat Slovak Republic 83:57 in Sarajevo as both teams head to the Classification Round of U18 European Championship. The Finnish side is third in the group with 2-2 record, while Slovak Republic finished winless.
Soltes brought Slovak Republic the first lead, however the team could not stay in front for a long time. Carl Lindbom (204-F-91) made the score 10:5 and Cato scored for 14:8. Vanttaja made two free throws at the end of the first period for 16:8 lead. No matter how hard Slovakia tried to recover, Finland did not allow them to do so. After 24-21 in the second frame Villematti Kopio (180-G-92) sent the teams to the big break for 40:29. Fulka scored for 51:42 and Matej Ondrejka (195-G-91) reduced to 57:44 midway through the third period. Soltes closed the third period for 66:48. Finland added also 17-9 in the last stanza for the total 83:57 victory.
Villematti Kopio paced all the winners with 18 points for the winners. Carl Lindbom notched 16, while Vanttaja added 14. Tomas Mrvis (193-G-91) finished the night with 13 points and Matej Ondrejka added 12.
In another game of the day Sweden wins over Poland in Sarajevo as both teams head to the Qualifying Round of U18 European Championship. The Scandinavian team overcame Polish side 81:69 to win the group with 4-0 record. Poland meanwhile advanced with 3-1 as they tasted the only loss.

Finland U18: Villematti Kopio 18, Carl Lindbom 16, Vanttaja 14
Slovak Republic U18: Tomas Mrvis 13, Matej Ondrejka 12


Poland U18 remains undefeated - by Eurobasket News
Slovak Republic U18-Poland U18 68:85

Poland U18 reached Sweden in Group B at 3-0 record at the U18 European Championship. The Polish side overcame Slovak Republic in the last game of Sunday 85:68.
Slovak Republic opened the scoring account in the game, while Poland grabbed the lead after Sebastian Szymanski (184-G-91)'s shot. Sokolowski closed the opening quarter at 15:11 for Poland. The tempo as definitely increased in the second frame as Poland was able to score 25 points. Slovak Republic ended up with 16 and the difference was 13 points at the halftime. Kopf scored the last three points in the half as Poland had 40:27 advantage. Richard Grznar (187-G-91) netted five in a row to reduce for 50:41 midway through the third period. Poland however made another push for 64:48 after three quarters. A 9-0 run in the middle of the last stanza brought Slovakia within 62:68, but they could not keep the push. Poland managed to rearrange and also won the last period 21-20 for the total success. Leszczynski closed the game for the winners from the free throw line.
Robert Magnuszewski (193-F-91) and Sebastian Szymanski top-scored for the winners with 20 points each. Richard Grznar ended up with 20 points in the losing effort, while Martin Floris (195-F-91) added 14.
In another game of the group Sweden U18 keep the perfect record after 76:62 victory over Iceland U18. The Scandinavian team needed 26-10 to win the third straight game at the U18 European Championship Men 2009 Division B.

Slovak Republic U18: Richard Grznar 20, Martin Floris 14
Poland U18: Robert Magnuszewski 20, Sebastian Szymanski 20

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


Croatia still undefeated in France - by Eurobasket News
Croatia U18 - Slovenia U18 90:84

Croatian U18 team celebrated the fourth consecutive win in France. They opened the Qualifying Round of the European Championship with victory over Slovenia. Croatia improved at 3-0 record, while Slovenia fell at 1-2 in Group E.
Slovenia got to a brave start taking a 10:4 lead. Jakob Cebasek (198-G/F-91) helped Slovenia to a 10-point cushion late in the opening stanza. Jakob Cebasek, Span and Buda made it 30:15 at the end of the first frame. Croatia came back from slumber at the start of the second frame. They unloaded eight points in a row to cut the margin. Dragan Sekelja (210-C-91) and Dino Jakolis (198-G-91) dragged Croatia within 2 late in the half. Slovenia hung on to take a 45:42 advantage into halftime. Dragan Sekelja and Dino Jakolis put Croatia in front early in the third quarter. The Croats raised the tempo and finished the third stanza up by 4 points. Dino Jakolis and Toni Prostran (183-G-91) stretched the gap to 11 points with under 4 minutes to go. Horvat connected twice from beyond the arc to trim the deficit. He followed with two free throws to cut the margin to just 3 points with just over a minute left in regulation. But Toni Prostran scored 9 freebies in the dying seconds to gain the victory for Croatia.
Dino Jakolis and Dragan Sekelja scored 20 points apiece for Croatia. Matteo Juricic (191-G-91) had 18 points, 6 boards and 4 assists in the win. Sven Malus (194-F-91) and Jakob Cebasek knocked down 22 points each for Slovenia.

Croatia U18: Dino Jakolis 20, Dragan Sekelja 20, Matteo Juricic 18
Slovenia U18: Sven Malus 22, Jakob Cebasek 22


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


Korea fails against Taiwan, finishes WJC as No.5 - by Eurobasket News
Taiwan 81-74 Korea

Cheered by the home crowd, Taiwan quickly jumped in front since the opening tip and took a 20-16 lead in the end of the first quarter. Taiwan led by six at the half.

Lin Chih-Chieh (192-F-82) made three 3-pointers in the third quarter to increase Taiwan's lead to double-digit while Korean starting center Kim Joo-sung was plagued by foul trouble.

With a seemingly comfortable lead, Taiwan became careless as they committed too many turnovers in the final quarter and gave Korea a chance. Lee Kyu-sup made two free-throws with 4:44 to play and cut the deficit to four, 67-63.

Lin Chih-Chieh's fourth 3-pointer in the second half was the wake-up call, igniting a game-clinching 9-0 run which included a two-handed dunk by Tseng Wen-ting and made the score out of reach, 76-63, with two minutes left.

Chang Chih-Feng (183-G-81) led Taiwan with 21 points. Tseng Wen-ting and Lin Chih-Chieh scored 17 apiece while Tien Lei (202-F-83) had a double-double of 12 points and 13 rebounds.

Taiwan outrebounded Korea 35-25 and that proved to be the key. 'We grabbed more rebounds on both ends of the court and kept pounding inside on offense. Those were the main reasons why we won today, ' said head coach Chung Kwang-Suk .

Korea was not at its full strength in the game as forward Kim Min-soo still suffered from illness and played less than 10 minutes.

Final placing:

1. Iran 6-2
2. Jordan 7-1
3. Lebanon 6-2
4. Taiwan 6-2
5. Korea 5-3
6. Philippines 2-6
7. Taiwan 2nd NT 2-6
8. Kazakhstan 1-7
9. Japan 1-7

(by Chris Wang - Taiwan)


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


Freeland Moves To Unicaja - by Paul Nilsen
NBA draftee Joel Freeland (208-F-87) has finally made the move from Gran Canaria to Unicaja after months of speculation. The British center will join up with his national team mate and fellow big man Robert Archibald in Malaga who he will no compete with for minutes having had some memorable battles against him in the ACB end of season play-off quarter finals. Freeland has been a revelation this year, finally having the breakthrough season that many have been waiting for. Far from the finished article, his foot speed and battling qualities will give Unicaja a different dimension in the paint and he surely will learn plenty from Coach Reneses. Before pulling on the green vest on the Costa Del Sol, Freeland will be joining Archibald at EuroBasket 2009 in Poland.

Spain work hard to upset France - by Eurobasket News
Spain U18 - France U18 75:69

Spanish team sneaked past France at the U18 European Championship. Spaniards improved at 2-1 record in Qualifying Round Group E. The hosts in the meantime fell to surprising 1-2 record in the pool.
Sastre ensured a fast start for Spain scoring 5 points in a row. The visitors stretched the gap to 8 points midway through the quarter. France failed to deny the deficit and trailed by 8 at the first break. Guigou opened a double-digit lead for Spain with a three-pointer early in the second quarter. But the hosts shook off the sloppiness and responded with an 18:2 rally to tie things up at 30. Les Bleus capped the half with 10 straight points to lead 40:34 at halftime. Stojilijkovic and Fabien Paschal (206-C/F-91) gave France a 9-point advantage early in the third stanza. Spain responded with a 14:0 run to regain control. Ignacio Llovet (202-C-91) opened the final frame with a lay-up to give Spain a 59:50 lead. The visiting maintained the cushion well enough throughout the reminder of the contest to celebrate an important win at the end.
Joan Tomas (201-F-92) and Ignacio Llovet finished with 15 points each for Spain. Alberto Jodar (204-F/C-91) added 12 points in the victory. Fabien Paschal replied with 16 points and 12 boards for France. Leo Westermann (198-G-92) had 12 points in defeat.

Spain U18: Joan Tomas 15, Ignacio Llovet 15, Alberto Jodar 12
France U18: Fabien Paschal 16+12 boards, Leo Westermann 12


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


Sweden wins over Poland in Sarajevo as both teams head to the Qualifying Round - by Eurobasket News
Poland U18-Sweden U18 69:81

Sweden wins over Poland in Sarajevo as both teams head to the Qualifying Round of U18 European Championship. The Scandinavian team overcame Polish side 81:69 to win the group with 4-0 record. Poland meanwhile advanced with 3-1 as they tasted the only loss.
Person gave Sweden the first lead and then Hampton scored for 16:12. Wierzbicki posted for 16:16 and Jakub Parzenski (209-C-91) gave Poland 23:20 after the opening quarter. Sweden bounced back and Christopher Czerapowicz (197-F-91) scored for 33:28 midway through the second frame. The Scandinavian team was very productive in the period and nailed 30 points for 50:37 advantage. Sweden was too good also after the big break and had 68:47 when Daniel Persson (198-G-91) made a jump shot. Person closed the third period for 71:49 as there was not more intrigue left in the court. Although Poland finished the game with 20-10 it gave them only 69:81 loss and the first upset in the tournament.
Christopher Czerapowicz top-scored for the winners with 21 points for the undefeated record. Daniel Persson nailed 15, while Person and Gaddefors scored 9 each. Sebastian Szymanski (186-G-91) and Jakub Parzenski delivered 14 points each in defeat.
In another game of the day Finland beat Slovak Republic 83:57. The Finnish side is third in the group with 2-2 record, while Slovak Republic finished winless.

Poland U18: Sebastian Szymanski 14, Jakub Parzenski 14
Sweden U18: Christopher Czerapowicz 21, Daniel Persson 15, Person 9, Gaddefors 9

Sweden finishes the tournament in Hungary - by Eurobasket News
Sweden won one game and lost two at the International Tournament in Szombathely, Hungary.
At first Hungary beat Sweden 95:62 in the opener of the tournament. The hosts started with 32:15 and increased the lead at the half after 24-20 in the second period. Hungarian team looked better also in the third and the last frames. Peter Lorant top-scored for the winners with 16 points and Akos Horvath (194-G/F-81) nailed 15. Mikael Lindqvist ended up with 15 points in the losing effort, whilst Martin Ringstrom (206-F-81, agency: Rasmussen Services) brought 9.
In the second game the Netherlands defeated Sweden in overtime 92:91. During the second half, Sweden outscored Holland at a torrid pace, building up a lead that stretched to as big as 12 points towards the end of the third quarter.Francisco Elson (212-C-76, agency: Court Side, college: California) would put together a rally of scoring six straight points in the final minutes of the fourth Quarter, 75:75. In overtime, Jansen dominated and scored eleven of his 16 points, leading Holland to a strong finish. Rogier Jansen utilized in the final stage of the game two free throws for the Netherlands, winning the game with 92:91. Martin Ringstrom finished the game with 19 points and Kenny Grant added 13.
In the third game Sweden beat Finland 76:73. Sweden was leading already by 20 points during the third quarter, but Finland came back to the game during the last 10 minutes. Sweden made a 3-pointer at the end and took the first and only victory in the tournament. Jim Nystrom paced all the winners with 16 points and Jonathan Skjoldebrand notched 13. Lesli Myrthil had 7, while Serkan Inan, Joakim Kjellbom (213-C/F-79, college: N.Arizona), Mikael Lindquist and Thomas Massamba posted 6 each. Petteri
Koponen and Kimmo Muurinen ended up with 13 points apiece in the losing case.

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


Market News - by Livio Kalomeni
Fenerbahce Ulker Istanbul is looking for new playmaker instead of Marques Green (170-G-82, college: St.Bonaventure) who was'n able to satify much Fenerbahce supporters and team society..
the first candidate is Olympiacos playmaker Lynn Greer (186-G-79, college: Temple) but his wages is supposed tobe very high and They are trying to find the way to convince Greer to join Fenerbahce Ulker Istanbul.. also there is rumours about Mersin guard Bo Mc Calebb who had very successful season with Mersin last year.. averaged 17 .8 points per game and he was the second top scorer after Chris Lofton who was training with Boston Celtics with Summer League.

Galatasaray Cafecrown Istanbul Signed with Caner Topaloglu (199-F-85) who played with Bandirma Banvit last yeard ,had 4.4 points and 18 min played in season..
last minute Telekom Ankara is closed to sign with Huseyin Besok who used to play Le Mans,Maccabi and Galatasaray ..
Ankara team have not signed such a important players, because their budget has not been announced by Telekom managements.

Fenerbahce Ulker Istanbul and Turkish national team center Semih Erden got injured his finger at traning today and he will not able play for one week after his control.


Ivan Koljevic lands in BC Bornova - by Eurobasket News
In order to be the good representative in the Turkish TBL BC Bornova signed Ivan Koljevic (186-G-84). The latter will be a great foreigner in the team and should help them in the next season.
Ivan Koljevic has experience in European local championship as well as in Euroleague, ULEB Cup and FIBA EuroCup. In 2002-2003 he played for Buducnost Podgorica and in Euroleague appeared in 14 games averaging 8.9ppg, 1.5rpg, 1.2apg. In 2004-2005: BC Buducnost Podgorica participated in ULEB Cup and Ivan played in 10 games averaging 12,4ppg, 2.0rpg, 4.0apg, FGP: 44.8%, 3Pts: 34.7%. In Adriatic League in 27 games he showed 14.1ppg, 1.7rpg, 2.6apg, 1.0spg, FGP: 44.9%, 3Pts: 37.4%, FreeThrows-1 (92.7%). From 2005 up to 2009 he played in Spain, Greece, Russia, Lithuania and Ukraine.
In 2007 together with the Lithuanian Lietuvos Rytashe defended their title beating Zalgiris again in the Final. After a second place in ULEB Cup, Rytas desired only the first place in BBL. They fantastically managed to do this with 81:77 win.
Last season Ivan Koljevic played for SK Cherkasy Monkeys in Ukraine-UBL. He played in 37 games and averaged 16.1ppg, 2.1rpg, 3.5apg, 1.1spg, FGP: 46.4%, 3PT: 42.8%, FT-1 (93.3%)
In the last game for the Ukrainian team Laimis Kiselius, Stanislav Balashov and Aleh Kojenets scored 20 points each as Ferro-ZNTU dropped Cherkasy in the regular season finale 92:80. Jason Fontenet added 19 points and 5 assists for the winners as they clinched the 15th victory. Miljan Pupovic responded with 21 points and 8 boards for Cherkasy in defeat and Ivan Koljevic had 7. In one of the games he recorded 40 points against Budivelnik for 90:82 victory.

Enes Kanter carries Turkey past Russia - by Eurobasket News
Turkey U18 - Russia U18 72:70

Turkish U18 team secured the fourth straight win at the European Championship in France. Earlier today they nipped Russia at the start of the Qualifying Round in Group F. Thus Turkey improved at 3-0 record in the pool, sending Russia at 1-2. Turkey wasted their 12-point advantage in the final stanza to play extra period. They however managed to pull together before escaping with a narrow victory at the end.
Turkey entered the game confidently going for eight unanswered points at the start. Russia used an 8:2 run late in the period to jump in front before Safak Edge (185-G-92) gave Turkey a 19:18 lead after ten minutes of action. Caliskan scored 7 points in a low-scoring second frame allowing Turkey to pile up a 35:29 advantage at halftime. Safak Edge and Can Maxim Mutaf (193-G-91) ensured a 10-point lead for Turkey early in the third quarter. Russia could not get any closer and faced a 12-point deficit into the fourth term. However Dmitry Kulagin (195-G-92) drained a three-pointer triggering a 10:2 rally from Russia as they got within 5. Mikhail Nabotov (202-C-91) and Dmitry Kulagin drew things level and forced overtime. But it was Enes Kanter (206-C-92) who took over in the extra period. He knocked down 5 free throws and Turkey ran away for the victory at the end.
Enes Kanter delivered 19 points and 22 rebounds to orchestrate the win. Can Maxim Mutaf added 15 points, while Safak Edge dropped 14. Mikhail Nabotov responded with 12 points for Russia. Alexander Burtsev (195-G-91) finished with 11 points and 9 boards in the loss.

Turkey U18: Enes Kanter 19+22 boards, Can Maxim Mutaf 15, Safak Edge 14
Russia U18: Mikhail Nabotov 12, Alexander Burtsev 11


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


Pemberton, Potter, Jones headed to Basketball without borders. - by David Edole
Mexico Three Virgin Islanders were among more than 50 top athletes from across the continent that will participate in Basketball Without Borders (BWB) Americas. BWB is a basketball instructional camp for young people that promotes friendship, healthy living and education. The players from the territory that were invited are Charles Pemberton (-92), Merwin Potter (-93) and Kadeem Jones (-94). All of the young men recently represented the Virgin Islands in U17 play in Aguas Calientes Mexico and helped the team secure the bronze medal.
Pemberton attends Charlotte Amalie High School, is a 6-foot-5 post that led the U17 tourney in rebounding (15 per game). Potter is a teammates of Pemberton's at Charlotte Amalie and was named the 2008-09 High School player of the year. Potter had an all around performance at U17 and averaged 11.5 points, 3.5 rebounds, 2.6 assists and 1.3 blocks. Jones, of Central High School, is a point guard whom finished third in assists (4.5) and sixth in three point shooting (36.8%).

Players (19 and under) were selected by FIBA, the NBA and participating basketball federations, based on their basketball skills, leadership abilities and dedication to the sport. Basketball without Borders Americas is scheduled to take place on August 6 to 9 in Mexico City at Centro Nacional de Desarrollo de Talentos y Alto Rendimiento (CNAR).

Mexican star, Eduardo Najera, will serve as a camp coach along with Atlanta Hawks center forward Al Horford (Dominican Republic), Philadelphia 76ers center Samuel Dalembert (Haiti) and guard Willie Green (USA). NBA team personnel include Austin Ainge from the Boston Celtics, Kenny Atkinson from the New York Knicks, Kelvin Sampson and Mark Boff from the Milwaukee Bucks, and Jack Sikma from the Houston Rockets. Gersson Rosas from the Houston Rockets will be BWB Americas Camp Director.

In addition to basketball instruction and through NBA Cares, the leagues social responsibility initiative, NBA players and coaches will lead daily life-skills sessions focusing on the importance of education, leadership, character development, health and wellness. Highlights of the camp will also include extensive community outreach efforts in Mexico City.

The following is a complete list of players participating in Basketball without Borders Americas 2009:


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


Greece start relegation round with victory - by Eurobasket News
Greece U18 - Ukraine U18 73:45

Greece thumped Ukraine at the classification round for the 13th-16th spot of the U18 European Championship. Four teams are fighting to remain in Division A for the next season. Greece made the first step towards the goal. They handled Ukraine to improve at 1-0 record in Group G. Ukraine on the other hand suffered the fourth straight defeat in France slipping at 0-1.
Andriy Lebedintsev (186-G-91) and Dzyuba opened the game with back-to-back three-pointers to pull Ukraine in front. But Greece gradually got into the game and spurred in front 17:15 after ten minutes. Andreas Kanonidis (198-F-91) and Dionysios Kapiniaris (184-G-91) gave the Hellenes a 5-point lead early in the second quarter. Consecutive triples from Andreas Kanonidis and Motsenigos ensured an 8-point lead for Greece midway through the second stanza. Greece opened the second half with 8 points in a row to accumulate a 45:27 advantage. They cruised to a 21-point buffer at three-quarter time. Ukraine had no chance to save the game and surrendered at the end.
Andreas Kanonidis dropped 17 points to pace Greece. Dionysios Kapiniaris provided 13 points and 7 boards in the victory. Andriy Lebedintsev responded with 16 points for Ukraine. Maksym Sandul (207-C-91) finished with 11 points in defeat.

Greece U18: Andreas Kanonidis 17, Dionysios Kapiniaris 13, Ioannis Angelopoulos (194-G-91) 11
Ukraine U18: Andriy Lebedintsev 16, Maksym Sandul 11


BC Donetsk sign Aaron McGhee - by Eurobasket
BC Donetsk agreed terms with 30-year old American forward Aaron McGhee (202-F-79, college: Oklahoma, agency: Ronsport). McGhee played most recently at Leones de Ponce (Puerto Rico). Last season he started with Ironi Nahariya of Israeli Premier League and he averaged: 13 games: 17.5ppg, Reb-2 (9.8rpg), 2.1apg, 1.3spg, FGP: 56.8%, 3PT: 14.3%, FT: 80.0%. On March 9th, he moved to Euroleague giant Maccabi Electra Tel-Aviv.
McGhee started his career at Cincinnati, where he played the 1998-99 season and averaged 2.8 points and 1.9 rebounds in 30 games. He left Cincinnati to become a first-team National Junior College Athletic Association All-American in 1999-00 at Vincennes (Ind.) University where he averaged 26.5 points, 9.0 rebounds, 1.8 assists and 1.6 blocked shots per contest. Was named MVP of the 2000 NJCAA national tournament when he averaged 34.5 points per game as Vincennes went 32-5 and placed fifth in the national tournament. Set a Vincennes single-season scoring record (874 points).

McGhee transferred to the University of Oklahoma, where he averaged 16 ppg and 7.7 rpg in his senior year at Oklahoma. He was noted for being one of the top reasons why OU reached the final four in that year. In five NCAA tournament games, he averaged 21.8 points and 7.2 rebounds. He had 26 points and 12 rebounds in their first round win against Illinois-Chicago, then followed it up with 25, 21 and 15 points against Xavier, Arizona and Missouri respectively. He had 22 points and 8 boards in a losing effort in the National Semis against Indiana. Overall in his senior year, he had a total of 13 doubles doubles, only second behind current Chicago Bulls Forward Drew Gooden. He ranked 6th in the big 12 in scoring and 5th in rebounding.

McGhee averaged 11 points and 5 rebounds a game for his college career. He was left undrafted at the 2002 NBA draft despite being the MVP in Portsmouth pre-draft camp.


Full bag of transfers - by Alexander Muzyka
- Jovan Koprivica (198-G/F-82) (8,2 ppg in Politekhnika last season) and Jerel Allen (192-G-85) (14,6 ppg in Dnipro-Azot last season) joined Kryvbasbasket. Club's president Anatoli Buriiak said all of the foreigners have left the team and Koprivica with Allen are first incoming ones.

- Hryhori Khyzhniak (216-C-74) from Dnipro, Yuri Lokhmanchuk (197-G/F-87) from Gryfony and Andri Malysh (204-C/F-83) from Cherkasy Monkeys will play for Budivelnyk next season. Artem Slipenchuk (192-G-89) can be loaned to Hoverla.

- BC Donetsk is preparing to the season. Now its known Milutin Aleksic (202-F-82) and Dmytro Zabirchenko (191-G-84) will stay, Maksym Ivshyn (207-C-86), Goran Ikonic (196-G-80) and Bruno Sundov (220-C-80) are inked. Haywood Owens (204-F-79) can stay, too. Artem Schepkin (188-G-86) will left the team.

- Ferro-ZNTU inked Heorhi Kandrusevich (198-F-78), Siarhei Charykau (185-G-82) and longed Oleksandr Rybalko (190-G-79), Artem Chemiakin (208-C/F-84), Yakov Zmitrovich (197-F-84) and Stanislav Ovdeienko (193-G-84). They invited three unknown foreigners for try-outs.

- Cherkasy Monkeys inked Dmitri Akulich (189-G-86).

- Politekhnika added Nikola Vasic (194-G-84), Eric Hicks (198-F-83) and Nick Williams (192-G-83). Alexander Kudrautsau (190-G-80) and Aliaksandr Pustahvar (200-G/F-85) are looking for another team.


Belarus - Ukraine stats: Terrific Saltovets - by Alexander Muzyka
Friendlies (Minsk, Belarus, SC Vitalyur)

July 24
Belarus - Ukraine - 83:86 (18:19, 23:19, 26:20, 16:28)
B: Charykau (12 + 13 ast), Kuzmin (8), Ulyanko (20), Korshuk (7 + 6 rbs), Aliakseyeu (13); Kandrusevich (9), Trastsinetski (4), Pustahvar (4), Kuchinsky (4), Shustau (2).
U: Popov, Kolchenko (11), Onufriyev (7), Agafonov (2), Kravtsov (7); Saltovets (16 + 7 rbs), Vilkhovetskyi (11), Kornienko (9 + 8 rbs), Glebov (9), Panchenko (6 + 7 ast), Fesenko (5), Pustozvonov (3).

July 25
Belarus - Ukraine - 84:68 (15:11, 23:21, 17:17, 29:19)
B: Charykau (4), Kudrautsau (13), Trastsinetski (1), Ulyanko (8), Mishukov (2); Korshuk (16), Kuzmin (11), Pustahvar (11), Kuchinsky (8 + 7 rbs), Gandlin (183-G-78) (4 + 7 ), N.Mescheriakov (4), Yafremau (2).
U: Panchenko (8 + 7 rbs + 6 ast), Kolchenko (11), Pustozvonov (4), Agafonov (6 + 8 rbs), Fesenko (5); Saltovets (20), Kornienko (7), Glebov (5), Kravtsov (2), Vilkhovetskyi, Onufriev.

July 26
Belarus - Ukraine - 75:77 (15:18, 23:21, 19:19, 18:19)
B: Charykau (2), Kudrautsau (10), Trastsinetski (2), Ulyanko (14), Y.Meshcharakou (4); Pustahvar (19), Kandrusevich (11), Korshuk (10), Gandlin (3), N.Mescheriakov.
U: Vilkhovetskyi (6), Glebov (13), Onufriev (11), Agafonov (6), Kravtsov (9); Saltovets (11), Fesenko (11), Popov (7), Pustozvonov (3), Kolchenko.


Ukraine and Belarus played three friendlies - by Eurobasket News
Ukraine and Belarus played three games between each other over the last few days. It was a good preparation for the upcoming tournament for both teams.
In the first game Ukraine overcame Belarus 86:83 as both teams showed good effort and different styles of the game. In the second game Belarus bounced with 84:67 victory. Belarus on the opening quarter 15-11 and increased the lead after 23-21 in the second quarter. Ukraine stayed tough with 17-17 in the third frame, however failed in the last one with 18-29. Dzianis Korshuk (202-C/F-78, agency: Agency No 10) top-scored for the winners with 16 points and Alexander Kudrautsau (190-G-80, agency: AB Agency) posted 13. Dmitri Kuzmin (197-G-75) and Aliaksandr Pustahvar (200-G/F-85) netted 11 each, while Pavel Ulyanko (204-F/C-79) and Arseni Kuchinsky (202-F-79, college: Fordham) delivered 8 apiece. In the third game Ukraine won 77:75 as the teams finished the three friendly clashes.


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


England add pain to Portugal in Sarajevo - by Eurobasket News
England U18 - Portugal U18 88:79

English U18 team posted the fourth straight win at the European Championship in Division B. They held off Portugal today to remain on top of Group D. Portugal on the other hand suffered the fourth defeat in a row falling deeper. Joshua Houghton (189-G-91) punished Portugal with 31 points.
Carlos Ferreirinho (200-F-91) nailed 11 points in the starting to keep Portugal hopeful. They led by two points at the first pause 19:17. Pereira hit a three-pointer to start a 9:0 rally from England midway through the second quarter as they grabbed a 30:23 advantage. Joshua Houghton capped the half with 5 points in a row to give England a 44:36 advantage.
Joshua Houghton opened the second half with a trey to pull England up by 11 points. The lead grew at 17 points before Portugal reacted. Azevedo allowed Portugal to trail by just 8 points heading into the fourth term. Carlos Ferreirinho drained a triple as Portugal got within 5 early in the fourth stanza. Carlos Ferreirinho continued to score narrowing the gap to slender two points. But Levi Noel (197-G-91) knocked down 13 points in the final five and a half minutes to seal the winning outcome for England.
Levi Noel finished with 19 points, 10 boards and 6 assists for England. Ryan Martin (210-F-91) added 11 points and 9 caroms for the winners. Carlos Ferreirinho responded with 32 points for Portugal. Miguel Queiroz (201-F-91) notched 11 points and 7 boards in defeat.

England U18: Joshua Houghton 31, Levi Noel 19+10 boards, Ryan Martin 11
Portugal U18: Carlos Ferreirinho 32, Miguel Queiroz 11


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


FIBA Americas - Inscription date closes on 2009/2010 FIBA Americas League - by Yelitza La Torre
Source http://www.fiba.com SAN JUAN (2009/2010 FIBA Americas League) - Argentina, Brazil, Ecuador and Peru for South America and Costa Rica, Mexico, Panama and Puerto Rico for Central America and the Caribbean inscribed their teams and some of them don't know their representatives yet for the 2009/2010 FIBA Americas League.

South America:

Argentina: Confirmed Atenas de Cordoba and Pearol de Mar del Plata, winner and runner-up from National League.

Brazil: Flamengo and Universo/Brazil confirmed their participation for the FIBA Americas League. Flamengo, as champion of the South American League for Clubs has their spot secured along with Universo, defending champion of the FIBA Americas League. There could be a third or fourth team for Brazil from their National League who made their debut this season.

Ecuador: Their last league champion inscribed their participation in the FIBA Americas League and this will be the first Ecuadorian team in the tournament's history.

Peru: Motivated by the recent participation by their women's team in the South American Championship for Women's Club in Quito, Regatas Lima will participate in the league with their men's team.

Central America and the Caribbean:

Costa Rica: Coopenae Liceo de Costa Rica inscribed their team and this will be the second participation of the FIBA Americas League.

Mexico: Halcones de Xalapa who won the championship and Soles de Mexicali will participate in the FIBA Americas League for the third time.

Panama: The Panamanian Federation has shown interest for the first time and the champion of Circuito de Baloncesto Superior could be in the FIBA Americas League.

Puerto Rico: Their national league hasn't ended but the league (BSN) has confirmed one or two teams in the FIBA Americas League. Capitanes de Arecibo, despite not reaching the finals, has shown interest and FIBA Americas is evaluating the situation.

According to the General Regulations the team should confirmed their participation at the end of July and send the payment to FIBA Americas.

FIBA Americas President, Mr. Horacio Muratore, expressed his satisfaction and said that the club competition in our countries should have a next step by having this tournament. He added 'without comparing it with the European competitions, the FIBA Americas League has been a landmark in our continent and this is a step into the FIBA World Club Championship where our continent won't be absent.'

Previous Champions for the FIBA Americas League

2007/2008: Pearol Mar del Plata (Argentina)
2008/2009: Universo/BRB (Brazil)


Is Gaiteros Bankrupt? - by Carlos Santander
Plenty days after the celebration because of the tremendous last game of the 2009 LPB championship series, where Marinos became champion of the Professional Basketball League of Venezuela; there are yet many basketball players that haven't receive their salaries Gaiteros Del Zulia owe to them. A players wife, sent us an email informing us about her frustration because her husband, father of her kids is not back home to joint his family because Gatieros hasn't pay his salary yet. This lady is wondering if LPB is aware about the disaster that Gaiteros is causing to many local and international families; it's not just about the players, those men have to take care of their responsibilities as father or husbands, but they can't because Gaiteros doesn't pay theirs salaries; this is a fraud. In a few months, Gaiteros Del Zulia is going to start operations once again to get ready for the next season, here some questions, LPB will allowed them to participate in the 2010 season? Who is going to pay to the people Gaiteros owe money? Why they don't sale the franchise? Are they going to be able to get import players for free once again? Can FIBA do something about it? Is LPB considering this topic?



*****************************************************
  WILLIAM JONES CUP   


Standings
Standings
1. Jordan7-1
2. Iran6-2
3. Lebanon6-2
4. Taiwan6-2
5. S.Korea5-3
6. Philippines2-6
7. Taiwan B2-6
8. Japan1-7
9. Kazakhstan1-7




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

Women News

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


Petja Dzhambazka leaves Dunav for Beroe 07 - by Eurobasket News
Beroe 07 is continuing with overhaul of its roster for the new season. After appointing new Head Coach and brining in Anna Rimpova (183-F-82) and Doli Tsankova (172-G-89), Beroe 07 has signed a new forward. Petja Dzhambazka (178-F-77), who played for Dunav Econt last season, will be the third signing for the club this summer. Beroe is hoping to improve on the results achieved last season, when the team made it to the Playoff Semifinals. There, they were stopped by Dunav Econt which won the series 2 games to 1. Dzhambazka was one of the reasons why Beroe could not go through to the finals and now Beroe's Management will be expecting from her to help them achieve better results next season. 31-year old forward is glad to have signed for the club and hopes that her big experience will be helpful to the club.
Petja Dzhambazka started her career with Levski Spartak Sofia. In 2005 she moved to Italy where she signed with Centro S. Palladio Vicenza. In 36 games in Serie A, she averaged 12.2 ppg and 4.8 rpg. Following season she returned to Bulgaria where she signed with Rilski Sportist. She played 23 games for Rilski, averaging 17.4 ppg and 4.4 rpg. For season 2007-2008 she signed with Dunav Econt and helped them win the title in his first year at the club. In 32 games, Dzhambaska averaged 12.9 ppg and 2.9 rpg.

*****************************************************
  FYR MACEDONIA - Women  


Macedonian National Team withdraws from qualification, FIBA to issue punishment - by Eurobasket News
What has been written about in the past few weeks has finally been confirmed. Macedonian National Team has decided to withdraw from qualifications for European Championships Division B. As the issue with gathering a squad surfaced as a problem which can not be solved, Macedonian Federation had no other choice but to withdraw. This will certainly be a huge blow for female Basketball in Macedonia, and further repercussions are still expected. As it was reported, FIBA looks set to punish Macedonian Federation with the fine which can go up to 30.000 Euros for withdrawal. As it was reported previously, Macedonian Federation has faced many problems with its female National Team. First problem was enabling the adequate conditions for preparations. Once this was solved, Head Coach of National Team Vidoja Sekuloski faced another problem of gathering a team since most of the players canceled. Out of 34 candidates which were invited, only 5 confirmed that they will come, while others refused as they did not want to pay for the expenses of their travel. As the stance of the federation is only to cover expenses when the team travels abroad and since they are not ready at this time to cover all travel expenses for their players, a problem was created for which compromise could not be found. As result, this drastic measure was taken and Macedonia will not continue with qualifications.
So far, Macedonia has played four qualification games in Group B. They are currently in 3rd place with 2 wins and two losses. Other than Macedonia, qualifying Group B consists of Sweden, Portugal, Estonia and Luxemburg. Next round was scheduled for August 15th, 2008 and Macedonia was supposed to travel to Estonia. Now it remains to be seen, will there be any other punishments other than monetary one.

*****************************************************
  GERMANY - Women  


Wolfenbuettel picks up Sabrina Scott - by Cornelius Damm
To replace their top inside player Anita Teilane (196-C-85) who wore the Wildcats uniform during the past three seasons BC Wildcats Wolfenbuettel picked up experienced American Sabrina Scott (190-C-81). After a successful college career at Colorado (NCAA Elite Eight in 2002, Sweet 16 in 2003), Scott took her game overseas. In 2004 she won the Italian championship and reached the Finals again in 2005 with Pool Comense. In 2006/07 she suited up for Jelenia Gora in Poland before one season of Balkan Basketball in the following year with Zeljeznicar Sarajevo that won the 2008 Bosnian Championship. This past season Scott spent in Sweden, suiting up for Lulea Basket where she averaged 11.0 PPG and 9.6 RPG. With Scott, Berger and Hootmann Wolfenbuettel built up an interesting front court during the last weeks.

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


Vagos with news on the roster - by Luis Rocha
Vagos that made a good season is aiming to a better one, and by now they decided to get 4 new players that can turn the roster stronger. They close deals with Ines Faustino (167-G-92), Joana Lopes (185-F-86), Mariana Alves (-G-84) and Ana Antunes (185-C-91). They got young and experienced players wich if properly motivated can make some impact on the team. They will certainly still go for a foreign, and its getting closer to get the roster completed.

*****************************************************
  PUERTO RICO - Women  


Tigresas and Indians in the finals - by Raul Colon
The Mayagez Indias and Aguas Buenas Tigresas made the II Alcalde Cups final.

Mayaguez, the 2008 tournament winner, romped the new look San Juan Warriors 70 to 53 to gain a spot in Mondays final. The Indias dominated the first half 36-20. Mari Placido scored 22 points for the winners. Leandra De los Santos paced the Warriors with 18 points.

In a closer contest, the Tigresas edged an upstart Guaynabo Conquistadoras 57-51.

Guaynabo lead 51-50 with 1:15 left in the clock, before Leika Rivera mid jumper, follow up by free throws, gave the host team an insuperable lead.
Rivera scored 13 and Madelyn Ramirez added 12. Mercedes Colon scored 15 points in a losing effort.


Tigresas and Indians in the finals - by Raul Colon
The Mayagez Indias and Aguas Buenas Tigresas made the II Alcalde Cups final.

Mayaguez, the 2008 tournament winner, romped the new look San Juan Warriors 70 to 53 to gain a spot in Mondays final. The Indias dominated the first half 36-20. Mari Placido scored 22 points for the winners. Leandra De los Santos paced the Warriors with 18 points.

In a closer contest, the Tigresas edged an upstart Guaynabo Conquistadoras 57-51.

Guaynabo lead 51-50 with 1:15 left in the clock, before Leika Rivera mid jumper, follow up by free throws, gave the host team an insuperable lead.
Rivera scored 13 and Madelyn Ramirez added 12. Mercedes Colon scored 15 points in a losing effort.


*****************************************************
  SPAIN - Women  


Lynx sign Spanish star Anna Montanana - by Eurobasket News
The Minnesota Lynx today announced that they have signed Spanish international star Anna Montanana (6'1''-F-80, college: George Washington). In a related roster move, the Lynx today also announced that they have waived forward LaToya Pringle (6'3''-F/C-86, college: N.Carolina).

Montaana, a native of Valencia, Spain, has enjoyed a lengthy and storied international and overseas career that has included appearances in the EuroBasket (2005, 2007, 2009), EuroLeague (2006-09), World Championships (2006) and the Olympics (2008). The international veteran most recently participated in the EuroBasket tournament with Spain, averaging 16.2 ppg, 4.1 rpg and 1.8 apg in nine contests. Montaana finished the tournament third in scoring, sixth in field-goal accuracy (.485 percent) and eighth in steals (1.9 spg).

'We're very happy to have signed Anna,' said Roger Griffith, Lynx Executive Vice President. 'She has played at a high level for a number of years on the international level and we're excited to see what she can do in the WNBA. She's a player that will add some rebounding and toughness to our team and will provide us with excellent depth at the small forward position. LaToya was a true professional throughout her time with us, and we wish her the best of luck in her future endeavors.'

In six games at the 2008 Olympics in Beijing, China, Montaana averaged 14.5 points, 5.8 rebounds and 1.7 assists in leading Spain to the quarterfinals. She finished the competition seventh among all players in scoring, sixth in field-goal accuracy (.500 percent) and 16th in three-point shooting (.400 percent). Montaana scored 10 points and hauled in four rebounds versus the United States.

Montaana has competed in the EuroLeague the past four years, two of those with Halcon Avenida (2007, 2008) and the other two with Spanish power Ros Casares (2006, 2009). Montaana was a teammate of Candice Wiggins this past season with the Valencia-based Ros Casares squad, and led the team to a 25-1 record and the Liga Femenina League Championship.

Prior to her career on the world stage, Montaana came over from Spain to play four years at George Washington University, where she averaged 11.1 ppg in 119 collegiate games. Montaana averaged a team-leading 16.7 ppg her senior season en route to earning All-Atlantic 10 First Team honors.

Montaana went undrafted in 2005, but was later signed as an undrafted free agent by the Connecticut Sun on April 19, 2005, who then waived her on May 16, 2005.

Pringle departs the Lynx after averaging 2.2 ppg, 2.2 rpg and 0.8 bpg in 17 contests in 2009. Originally selected 13th overall in the 2008 WNBA Draft by Phoenix, Minnesota acquired the six-foot-three post player along with Kelly Miller from the Mercury on January 30, 2009 in exchange for Nicole Ohlde. In 46 career WNBA games, Pringle holds averages of 3.6 ppg, 3.0 rpg and 1.2 bpg.

Courtesy of The Minnesota Lynx

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


Lynx sign Spanish star Anna Montanana - by Eurobasket News
The Minnesota Lynx today announced that they have signed Spanish international star Anna Montanana (6'1''-F-80, college: George Washington). In a related roster move, the Lynx today also announced that they have waived forward LaToya Pringle (6'3''-F/C-86, college: N.Carolina).

Montaana, a native of Valencia, Spain, has enjoyed a lengthy and storied international and overseas career that has included appearances in the EuroBasket (2005, 2007, 2009), EuroLeague (2006-09), World Championships (2006) and the Olympics (2008). The international veteran most recently participated in the EuroBasket tournament with Spain, averaging 16.2 ppg, 4.1 rpg and 1.8 apg in nine contests. Montaana finished the tournament third in scoring, sixth in field-goal accuracy (.485 percent) and eighth in steals (1.9 spg).

'We're very happy to have signed Anna,' said Roger Griffith, Lynx Executive Vice President. 'She has played at a high level for a number of years on the international level and we're excited to see what she can do in the WNBA. She's a player that will add some rebounding and toughness to our team and will provide us with excellent depth at the small forward position. LaToya was a true professional throughout her time with us, and we wish her the best of luck in her future endeavors.'

In six games at the 2008 Olympics in Beijing, China, Montaana averaged 14.5 points, 5.8 rebounds and 1.7 assists in leading Spain to the quarterfinals. She finished the competition seventh among all players in scoring, sixth in field-goal accuracy (.500 percent) and 16th in three-point shooting (.400 percent). Montaana scored 10 points and hauled in four rebounds versus the United States.

Montaana has competed in the EuroLeague the past four years, two of those with Halcon Avenida (2007, 2008) and the other two with Spanish power Ros Casares (2006, 2009). Montaana was a teammate of Candice Wiggins this past season with the Valencia-based Ros Casares squad, and led the team to a 25-1 record and the Liga Femenina League Championship.

Prior to her career on the world stage, Montaana came over from Spain to play four years at George Washington University, where she averaged 11.1 ppg in 119 collegiate games. Montaana averaged a team-leading 16.7 ppg her senior season en route to earning All-Atlantic 10 First Team honors.

Montaana went undrafted in 2005, but was later signed as an undrafted free agent by the Connecticut Sun on April 19, 2005, who then waived her on May 16, 2005.

Pringle departs the Lynx after averaging 2.2 ppg, 2.2 rpg and 0.8 bpg in 17 contests in 2009. Originally selected 13th overall in the 2008 WNBA Draft by Phoenix, Minnesota acquired the six-foot-three post player along with Kelly Miller from the Mercury on January 30, 2009 in exchange for Nicole Ohlde. In 46 career WNBA games, Pringle holds averages of 3.6 ppg, 3.0 rpg and 1.2 bpg.

Courtesy of The Minnesota Lynx

WNBA Players of the Week - by Eurobasket News
Asjha Jones (6'2''-F-80, college: Connecticut) of the Connecticut Sun and Sue Bird (5'9''-G-80, college: Connecticut) of the Seattle Storm were named the WNBA Eastern and Western Conference Players of the Week, respectively, for regular season games played Monday, July 20 through Sunday, July 26.

Jones wins the fourth Player of the Week award of her career and her first this season after recording a double-double with 28 points and 10 rebounds in the Sun's win over the Sacramento Monarchs. Jones, a 2009 WNBA All-Star reserve, was the second-leading scorer this week and first among Eastern Conference players.

Her 28 points marked a season high and the 14th time in 15 games this season that Jones has scored in double figures. She scored 22 of her points in the second half and tied a career high with 13 field goals made. Jones helped the Sun stretch their winning streak to four games, a league-best among active streaks.

Playing on her home court, Jones participated in the second All-Star Game of her career, scoring six points and collecting six rebounds. She was a member of the 2008 All-WNBA Second Team.

Bird earns her second career Player of the Week award and first this season after a week in which she scored 23 points, handed out five assists and collected five rebounds in the Storm's triple-overtime win over the Los Angeles Sparks. Bird was second in the Western Conference in scoring and tied for third in assists.

Bird scored nine of her season-high 23 points in the third overtime to push Seattle past Los Angeles. Seven of her eight field goals in the game were three-pointers. Her seven threes set a Storm single-game franchise record and tied the WNBA season high (Diana Taurasi, June 17 vs. Minnesota). In the game, Bird passed Dawn Staley (1,337) and Teresa Weatherspoon (1,338) as she moved into third place in WNBA history in assists. In her career-high 49 minutes played against the Sparks, Bird did not commit a single turnover.

A two-time Olympic gold medalist, Bird is six-time All-Star, having been voted a starter each year. She is a five-time All-WNBA honoree, including four selections to the All-WNBA First Team. She is the Storm's all-time leader in assists and recently became the third player in WNBA history to record 3,000 career points and 1,000 career assists. Bird scored 16 points and set an All-Star Game record with 10 assists in Saturday's midseason showcase at Mohegan Sun Arena.

Courtesy of www.oursportscentral.com


Standings
WNBA Standings
Eastern
 1. Indiana F. 12-4 
 2. Washingt. M. 9-7 
 3. Connect. S. 9-7 
 4. Chicago S. 8-10 
 5. Atlanta D. 8-10 
 6. New York L. 6-10 
 7. Detroit S. 5-9 
Western
 1. Phoenix M. 13-5 
 2. Seattle S. 11-6 
 3. Minnesota L. 10-7 
 4. S.Antonio SS 7-8 
 5. L.Angeles S. 4-9 
 6. Sacram. M. 4-15 


Last games (2) - Diana Taurasi scores 34 pacing Mercury to13th win this season - by Eurobasket News
Phoenix M. - New York L. 94-88
The Phoenix Mercury outplayed the New York Liberty last night remaining on top of Western Conference with 13-5 record. Currently the leading scorer of the league, Diana Taurasi (6'0''-G-82, college: Connecticut) once again led her team to victory. She spent 33 minutes on the court scoring 34 points and pulling down 13 rebounds. Le'Coe Willingham (6'0''-C-81, college: Auburn) also shined netting 20, while Cappie Pondexter (5'9''-G-83, college: Rutgers) and DeWanna Bonner (6'4''-G-87, college: Auburn) helped with 10 pts each. In the loosing squad, Shameka Christon (6'1''-G/F-82, college: Arkansas) had 21 points and 5 boards. They fell to 6-10 on East.

Sacramento M. - Washington M. 73-87
Nice 14-point win for the Mystics for 9-7 record in Eastern Conference (same as Connecticut Sun). On the other side, the Monarchs faced with 15th loss in 19 appearances. Crystal Langhorne (6'2''-F/C-86, college: Maryland) stepped up for the winners with 19 points and 8 rebounds. Lindsey Harding (5'8''-G-84, college: Duke) followed her with 16, while Monique Currie (6'0''-G/F-83, college: Duke) added 12 pts. Kara Lawson (5'8''-G-81, college: Tennessee) responded with 16 points in defeat. DeMya Walker (6'3''-F/C-77, college: Virginia) contributed with 13. The Mystic had great first quarter last night (30-13), what helped them later to register comfortable win.

*****************************************************
  WORLD CHAMPIONSHIPS U19 - Women  


Standings (Women)
Standings
Group E
1. Australia4-0
2. Czech Repub.3-1
3. France2-2
4. Lithuania2-2
5. Brazil2-2
6. Argentina2-2
Group F
1. Russia4-0
2. Spain4-0
3. USA3-1
4. Canada2-2
5. China1-3
6. Japan1-3
Group G
1. S.Korea1-0
2. Mali1-0
3. Thailand0-1
4. Tunisia0-1


Stats Leaders
Points Per Game
 Elizabeth Folake CAMBAGE
  (203-C-91)
  Avg: 23.3
 1. Cambage, AUS23.3 
 2. Xargay Casad., ESP19.5 
 3. Solopova, LTU15.8 
 4. Jarry, AUS14.8 
 5. Mamiya, JPN13.8 
 6. Ogwumike, USA13.3 
 7. Inoubli, TUN13.3 
 8. Pacheco Naci., BRA13.0 
 9. Arami, TUN13.0 
 10. Hanusova, C.12.5 
Rebounds Per Game
 Kayla ALEXANDER
  (195-F/C-91)
  Avg: 12.3
 1. Alexander, CAN12.3 
 2. Coulibaly, MLI11.3 
 3. Ogwumike, USA9.5 
 4. Mariko, MLI9.3 
 5. Wicijowski, CAN9.0 
 6. Logunova, RUS8.5 
 7. Ble Ossepe, ESP8.3 
 8. Paugaite, LTU7.8 
 9. Mamiya, JPN7.5 
 10. Tarasova, R.7.5 
Assists Per Game
 Siyue QIU
  (--91)
  Avg: 4
 1. Qiu, CHN4.0 
 2. Prahalis, USA3.3 
 3. Diggins, USA2.7 
 4. Harrington, AUS2.5 
 5. Stara, CZE2.0 
 6. Zhao, CHN2.0 
 7. Ireland, AUS2.0 
 8. Zintikaite, LTU2.0 
 9. Farley, AUS1.8 
 10. Jarry, A.1.8 
Steals Per Game
 Debora FERNANDES DA COSTA
  (165-G-91)
  Avg: 3.3
 1. Fernandes Da., BRA3.3 
 2. Johnson, USA2.3 
 3. Grigoryeva, RUS2.3 
 4. Kito, JPN2.0 
 5. Coulibaly, MLI2.0 
 6. Inoubli, TUN2.0 
 7. Achonwa, CAN2.0 
 8. Colley, CAN2.0 
 9. Xargay Casad., ESP1.8 
 10. da Silva, B.1.8 
Blocks Per Game
 Elizabeth Folake CAMBAGE
  (203-C-91)
  Avg: 2.8
 1. Cambage, AUS2.8 
 2. Alminaite, LTU2.0 
 3. Vernerey, FRA2.0 
 4. Tippett, AUS2.0 
 5. Paugaite, LTU1.8 
 6. Logunova, RUS1.5 
 7. Tarasova, RUS1.5 
 8. Siksniute, LTU1.5 
 9. Alexander, CAN1.3 
 10. Burani, A.1.3 


Summary of Day 4 in Bangkok (Qualifying Round 1) - by Eurobasket News

Group E
Lithuania - Australia 53-69
The Opals continued with impressive performance in Bangkok. After 3-0 in Preliminary Stage, Australia cruised past Lithuania 69-53 jumping on top of Qualifying Group E. The Lithuanians fell to 2-2. Elizabeth Folake Cambage (203-C-91) once again was in a game mood netting 20 points. Rachel Jarry (185-G-91) was behind her with 15 pts and 11 boards, plus Stephanie Cumming (178-G-90) added 10 pts. Lina Pikciute (192-F/C-90) answered with 15 points in defeat. Inesa Visgaudaite (171-G-91) contributed with 3 less.

Brazil - France 48-59
It was exciting Day 4 at the FIBA U19 World Championship in Bangkok. France managed to beat Brazil 59-48 so both squads now have the same 2-2 record in Qualifying Group E. Lithuania and Argentina also have 2-2 so battle for the Quarterfinals will most probably last until the last round. Alexia Plagnard (172-G-90) top-scored in victory with 15 points. Laure Datchy, Medelome Medenou (188-F-90) and Hhadydia Minte (185-F-91) netted 10 points each. In Brazil, Tatiane Pacheco Nacimiento (180-G/F-90) once again shined with 16 points. Debora Fernandes Da Costa (165-G-91) stopped on 10.

Czech Republic - Argentina 72-60
Czech Republic opened the second stage at the FIBA U19 World Championship with victory. With this one, the Czechs jumped to 3-1 significantly increasing chances for the Quarterfinals. Argentina fell to 2-2, but still with a chance to advance. Participants of Group E also are Australia, Brazil, Lithuanian and France. Alena Hanusova (187-C-91) paced Czech Republic to this victory draining 20 points. Katerina Bartonova (171-G-90) also had very important role collecting 18 points and 7 boards, while Michaela Stara (172-G-90) added 10 pts. Melisa Pavicich (182-F-91) responded with 12 pts in loss.


Group F
Spain - Japan 81-57
Team Spain remained perfect after 4 days at the FIBA U19 World Championship in Bangkok. This time Spain outplayed Japan joining Russians with 4-0 record in Qualifying Group F. Both squads already secured participation in the Quarterfinals, but it will be interesting to see who will grab the first place in this pool. Marta Xargay Casademont (180-G-90) was a key player in Spain with 23 points and 11 rebounds. Second scorer of the team was Vega Gimeno Martinez (183-F-91) with 15 pts. Yuka Mamiya (-90) and Yumi Niwa (-90) delivered 14 and 13 pts respectively in defeat. Mamiya also had 10 rebounds beside that.

USA - Canada 64-50
The defending champions managed to beat Canada in North American derby jumping to 3-1 record in Group F. This is the first day of Qualifying Round and Team USA is for sure expected to reach the Quarterfinals. Canada also has nice chance to do so, despite they dropped to 2-2 now. Kelsey Bone (196-C-91) and Samantha Prahalis (170-G-90) combined 28 points and 12 rebounds in the winning squad. Nnemkadi Ogwumike (188-F-90) followed with double-double, 11 points and 12 boards. In Team Canada, Kayla Alexander (195-F/C-91) collected 12 points and 9 boards. Laura Anne Dally (-92) contributed with 10 pts.

China - Russia 62-67
First win for Russia in the Qualifying Round, fourth in total. It means that Russia remains undefeated so far at the FIBA U19 World Championship in Bangkok. The Chinese fell to 1-3 and their chances for the Quarterfinals are way decreased now. Anastasia Logunova (188-C-90) shined in Team Russia with 17 points and 13 rebounds. Anastasiya Shilova (185-F-91) and Tatiana Grigoryeva (-90) added 10 points each. Ding Yuan (185-F-91) answered with 16 pts for China.

Places 13-16
Tunisia - Mali 35-53
Mali managed to grab the first win at the FIBA U19 World Championship. It was a low-scoring game, but Mali demonstrated much better performance than the other African team. It means that Mali will fight against South Korea for 12th place on this event, while Tunisia will try to avoid the last one taking on the host - Thailand. Ouleymatou Coulibaly (-90) stepped up in victory registering 13 points and 15 rebounds. Laoudy Maiga (-G-90) was behind him with 12 pts and bad shot percentage. For the Tunisians, Zbeyda Arami (-91) had 19 pts and 10 rebounds.

South Korea - Thailand 66-55
South Korea outplaying Thailand keeping the chances for 13th place alive. The host of FIBA U19 World Championship faced with another loss and they will try to avoid last place tomorrow against Tunisia. The Koreans will meet Mali for position No.13. Lee Jeonghyun (-92) led the winners with 21 points and 8 rebounds. Ahn HyoJin (-91) also was pretty good netting 14 points and grabbing 6 boards, while Kim GaYoung (-92) added 12. For the hosts, Suwimon Sangtad (-91) delivered 15 pts. Charinee Napasri (-90) was the last one with double-digits, 10 pts.