Eurobasket Daily News Report:

EUROBASKET NEWS REPORT - 8/1/2009

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Men News

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ADRIATIC LEAGUE

Filip Sepa in Swisslions Vrsac - by Dragan Jankovski
Talented shooting guard Filip Sepa (199-G/F-90, agency: Beo Basket) will continue his development in Adriatic league participant KK Swisslion Takovo Vrsac. As a reminder, the team from Vrsac hired Miroslav Nikolic (agency: Beo Basket ) as a head coach few weeks ago and his main task at this moment is to create competitive team which will be able for serious challenge in the regional championship. One of the first moves is signing of hot prospect Sepa.

Filip Sepa was tested by Fortitudo Bologna at the beginning of the last season and after joined Crvena Zvezda. However, he did not have to many chance in the first team, so he also played for Crvena Zvezda 2 in Serbian B league. Sepa is a standard member of Serbian youth National Teams. With U16 Serbia he won Bronze medal on EuroBasket 2006 in Spain. Sepa had 13.3 ppg and 4.9 rpg in 8 games. Last summer in Greece he played for U18 Serbia and was one of the leading players. For 8 games on this EuroBasket Sepa had 16.3 ppg, 2.8 rpg and 2.3 apg. Now Sepa is a member of U20 Serbia.

Power forward Nikola Jovanovic (204-C-81, agency: BeoExcell) will stay in Poland. After very good season with Atlas Stal Ostrow, where Jovanovic had 15.5 ppg, 5.6 rpg and 1.7 apg, he moved to Anwil Wloclawek. Jovanovic joined Astal Ostrow from Swisslions Takovo during he summer 2008. Before Swisslions, he spent one season on Cyprus with InterCollege Etha Engomis. Jovanovic also used to play in Ergonom, Masinac Kraljevo, Hemofarm and Odzaci.

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ARGENTINA

Argentina defeat Australia in a friendly match - by Facundo Iatzky
Argentina National team beat 98-78 Australia in Bahia Blanca. This was the first friendly match in the preparation for the FIBA Americas championship. Argentina started very focused and with a high effectivity. They got an advantage of 29 points in the second quarter, thanks to a terrific game of Paolo Quinteros (186-G-79). In the second half, Australia could reduce the difference due to the good game of Joe Ingles (203-G/F-87, agency: Priority Sports). Good debut for Argentina that now will travel to Rosario to play the Super 4 tournament.

Argentina (98): Juan Pablo Cantero 3, Paolo Quinteros 26, Federico Kammerichs 4, Luis Scola (206-F/C-80) 10 Roman Gonzalez 10 (St), Axel Weigand 6, Juan Pablo Figueroa (184-G-86, agency: Interperformances) 5, Juan Gutierrez 7, Leonardo Gutierrez 6, Diego Garcia 16, Fabricio Vay 5 Andres Pelussi 0. coach: Hernandez.

Australia (78): Gibson 11, Barlow 5, Joe Ingles 22, Jawai 14 Baynes 4 (St), Dellavedova 9, Crawford 3, Nevill 7, Weigh 0 Forman 3. coach: Brown.

In the halftime, three of the best players who played in the National team were honored in an emotive moment. They were Alejandro Montecchia, Juan Pepe Sanchez and Juan Espil.

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AUSTRALIA

Australian National Team 2009 - by Eurobasket

Ingles

Jawai

Dellavedova

Knight

Hill

Joe Ingles (203-G/F-87) of CB Granada (ESP)
Rhys Carter (190-G-84) of Latrobe City Pacers
Peter Crawford (193-G-79) of Perth Wildcats
Oscar Forman (205-G/F-82) of New Zealand Breakers
Adam Gibson (188-G-86) of Gold Coast Blaze
James Harvey (196-G/F-79) of Gold Coast Blaze
Brad Hill (198-G/F-86) of Eastern Mavericks
Jacob Holmes (198-G-83) of Sturt Sabres
Nathan Jawai (207-C-86) of Dallas Mavericks (USA)
Matthew Knight (204-F/C-85) of Kecskemeti Univer KSE (HUN)
Aleks Maric (211-C-84) of BC Partizan Igokea Beograd (SRB)
Damian Martin (186-G-84) of Parramatta Wildcats
Stephen Weigh (198-G/F-87) of Perth Wildcats
Matthew Dellavedova (189-G-90) of Australian Institute Sport
Head Coach: Brett Brown
Assistant Coach: Shane Heal
Assistant Coach: Andrej Lemanis
Physio: Steve EVANS
Doctor: Peter HARCOURT
Massage: Diana GLAZER
Manager: Nic MERCER

Boomers Fall To Argentina 98-78 - by Ian Moss
The Boomers have begun their South American tour with a hard-fought 98-78 loss to Argentina.

The 2004 Olympic Gold Medallists were too strong for the Australians, who mounted a late comeback after a slow start which saw them down by as much as 30 points.

Joe Ingles (203-G/F-87, agency: Priority Sports) top scored for the Boomers with 22 points, while Nathan Jawai (207-C-86, college: Midland CC) continued his solid international form with 19 points and 8 rebounds.

Boomers coach Brett Brown , while obviously not thrilled about a loss, saw some encouraging signs from a young team that featured 5 debutants.

Despite falling short on the defensive end, coach Brown was proud of his team's overall fighting effort, and said 'in a hostile stadium against a multiple medal winning country we didn't roll over, there were no heads down, and our guys deserve credit for that showing of spirit.'

The Boomers are using the six-game tour against Argentina and Brazil as a warm-up for the upcoming 2009 FIBA Oceania Championship against New Zealand (Sydney - August 23 and Wellington - August 25).

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AUSTRIA

Austrian National Team 2009 - by Sahereh

Danek

Detrick

Diwald

Dockner

Hutter

Benedikt Danek (174-G-86) of Arkadia Traiskirchen Lions
Jason Detrick (198-G-80) of Bruesa-Guipuzcoa BC (ESP)
Andreas Diwald (186-G-82) of Xion Dukes Klosterneuburg
Mathias Dockner (204-F/C-84) of BasketClubs Vienna
Peter Hutter (197-F/G-80) of Allianz Swans Gmunden
David Jandl (180-G-84) of UBC St. Polten
Christian Kollik (203-G/F-80) of UBSC PBS Graz
Heinz Kugerl (211-C-86) of Kapfenberg Bulls
Davor Lamesic (205-F-83) of WBC Kraftwerk Wels
Rasid Mahalbasic (207-F/C-90) of Bosna ASA BH Telecom Sarajevo (BIH)
Matthias Mayer (205-C/F-81) of Allianz Swans Gmunden
Deteri Mayes (189-G-74) of Allianz Swans Gmunden
Christoph Nagler (194-G-84) of Xion Dukes Klosterneuburg
Alex Nunner (191-G-85) of BSC Raiffeisen Furstenfeld Panthers
Hannes Ochsenhofer (186-G-85) of Oberwart Gunners
Kevin Payton (196-G-86) of University of Minnesota (USA)
Richard Poiger (206-F-87) of LTi Giessen 46ers (GER)
Thomas Schreiner (195-G-87) of UBC St. Polten
Florian Schoninger (186-G-83) of Allianz Swans Gmunden
Martin Speiser (202-F-83) of UBC St. Polten
Stjepan Stazic (198-G-78) of Universitet-Yugra Surgut (RUS)
Pete Strobl (206-F-77) of MGS Grand-Saconnex Basket (SUI)

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BARBADOS

Standings

Premier L. Standings

1. Bulls	12-3
2. Lakers	10-4
3. Cavaliers	10-4
4. Pinelands	9-4
5. Deacons	8-6
6. Jackson	8-7
7. Warriors	7-7
8. Sonics	6-7
9. Tridents	6-9
10. Patriots	3-11
11. Senators	3-11
12. Cougars	3-12

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BELGIUM

Leuven Transfer News - by Peter Buyse
Eurobasket received confirmation that Kyle Spain (196-F-87, agency: Elfus-Siegel Management (ESM)) and Taron Downey (186-G-83, college: Wake Forest) are headed to Belgium to play for Leuven Bears.

Downey played the past 3 years in Europe. After his college career at Wake Forest he first played the WBA for the Rome and Arkansas teams.
He then came overseas to Holland to play for Weert. At Weert he played 40 games and averaged 16.7 ppg, 3.6 rpg and 7.9 apg.
For the 2007-2008 season he moved to France to play for ProB team Evreux. He averaged 15.7 ppg and 3.7 apg in France.
This past season he returned to Holland and played for Eiffel Towers Den Bosch. He played 50 games in the Dutch league scoring 10.8 ppg and dishing out 4.1 apg.

Kyle Spain ) is a rookie out of San Diego State. he was voted All MWC 2nd team his senior year after he averaged 14.1 ppg and 5.3 rpg.
Most recently Spain played 3 games for the Washington Wizards in the NBA Summer league.

Liege Transfer News - by Peter Buyse
Belgacom Liege Basket has signed Croatian center Ivan Papac (210-F/C-87).
Papac played for the Croatian U18 team during the 2005 EC in Serbia and for the U20 NT at Euro 2006 in Turkey.
Has been a member of KK Zagreb as of 2002. This past season he played in the Croatian league, the Eurochallenge and the Adriatic league.
One of his best friends is new Liege player Andrija Stipanovic which should make the adjustment to life over here easier.

Oostende Transfer News - by Peter Buyse
Base Oostende signed American/Puerto Rican guard Javier Mojica (190-G-84, college: Cent.Conn.St.) for one year.
Mojica played 4 years at Central Connecticut State between 2003 and 2007. He has an excellent senior year when he averaged 16.8 ppg, 7.1 rpg and 3.2 apg. That year he earned all possible NEC awards including conference player of the year.
After leaving CCSU he played for several teams in Puerto Rico and Venezuela before ending up in Poland for the 2008-2009 season. In 29 games for AZS Koszalin he averaged 17.0 ppg, 4.2 rpg and 1.8 apg. He was also voted to the Eurobasket All Polish Import team.
Plays at present in Puerto Rico for the Vaqueros de Bayamon and in 44 games scored 11.3 ppg and grabbed 4.2 rpg while adding 2.3 apg.
He is now playing the finals of the BSN in Puerto Rico with 2 games to go and his team trailing 1-2 in the best of 5 series.
He is a proficient 3 pt shooter usually making between 36 and 41 pct of his shots.
His best season in Puerto Rico was in 2008 when he averaged 14.3 ppg, 6.1 rpg and 2.5 apg.
Javier played for the Puerto Rican NT during Centrobasket in Mexico duriung 2008, in 5 games he had averages of 7.4ppg, 1.4rpg, 1.0apg.
According to the Oostende press release he should join the team as of Aug 28 due to possible engagements with the Puerto Rico NT.

Alex Pledger lifts New Zealand over Belgium - by Eurobasket News
Belgium - New Zealand 81:83

New Zealand narrowly defeated Belgium in the second friendly encounter between the teams. The sides clashed in Antwerp yesterday and New Zealand were able to avenge of the previous loss. Alex Pledger (216-C-87, college: Belm.Abbey) scored a bucket with less than a second remaining in regulation to eke out a tough win for the Kiwis.
Belgium looked the better side in the first half. They pushed hard to earn a 22:11 lead at the first break. The teams traded baskets in the second stanza as the hosts managed to secure an 11-point lead at halftime. Kirk Penney (194-G-80, college: Wisconsin) was held to just one point in the first half. But the Tall Blacks finally got things rolling after the major break. Kirk Penney was back to his usual form. He unloaded 21 points in the second half to drag New Zealand back into contest. Mika Vukona (197-F-82) came up with 10 points in the fourth stanza as New Zealand gained a 73:72 lead with late in regulation. The home team regained the advantage at 81:80 but Lindsay Tait tied the score at 81 with less than a minute left. Then it was time for Alex Pledger heroics as he sealed the winning outcome for the visitors.
Kirk Penney nailed 22 points to pace New Zealand. Mika Vukona added 16 points and 10 rebounds, while Leon Henry (200-F/G-85, college: S.Idaho JC) had 13 points for the winners. Sam Van Rossom (188-G-86) had 16 points for Belgium. Didier Mbenga (214-C-80) added 15 points in defeat.

Belgium: Sam Van Rossom 16, Didier Mbenga 15
New Zealand: Kirk Penney 22, Mika Vukona 16+10 boards, Leon Henry 13

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BELIZE

Team Belize Narrowed to 15!!! - by David Magana
13 basketball players will represent Belize in next months Cocaba Championship Tournament in Cancun Mexico. Tonight we are closer to choosing those 13 players because last night the Basketball Federation eliminated 10 players from the selection leaving 15 players to compete for the 13 spots. This afternoon national team coach Kevin Siroki (178-G-70, college: Westminster) made it official.

Kevin Siroki, National Team Coach
So the players are:

* Gene Myvett (193-G-82, college: Cal.St.-Los Angeles). He is a 6.4 guard. He is an energy guy, great hustler. He is one of those ex-factor guys.
* Charles Burgess (188-G), 6.1 point guard. He is really a hardnosed player and he can also score.
* Dakin Braddick (213-C-84, college: Benedict). 7, center forward. He is very athletic and a big man. He will be able to run the floor for us and block a lot of shots.
* Stephen Williams (188-G-83). He is another guard, 6.2. Great shooter from the outside but also he is a slasher and can get to the rim.
* Marlon Garnett (188-G-75, college: Santa Clara), 6.4 guard and shooter. He is an outstanding shooter and he has a lot of experience. He played in the NBA for the Boston Celtics and also he has been playing overseas for many years. So he brings a lot of experience to our team and hes going to be looked to be one of our leaders on the team.
* Clinton Fuller (196-F-80, college: Colorado Christian), another 6.4 guard.
* Keith Acosta (193-G/F-76, college: Tex.A&M-Comm.), 6.4 foward and everybody knows who Keith is. He is going to be one of our good players and he is a scorer and he is going to be a strong defender.
* Herbie Allen (180-G) 5.11 point guard. Herbie is a great team player and he gets the ball to the right guys. If you need to knock down a jump shot, he will be able to do that for us. But he is a great team player and he is a good point guard.
* Greg Rudon (180-G), 6.2 guard and what Greg does a lot, his nickname is Chippy and he is a great shooter.
* Milton Palacio, 64 point guard. He is a leader and everybody knows him from 1998 but he is one of the main leaders. Again great NBA experience he is going to be the main leader of our team.
* Richard Troyer (196-F-84), 6.5 forward, very versatile player. He can shoot it from the outside and also he is strong enough to get inside and uses muscle and he is going to be able to go against some bigger guys and he can use his athleticism and size to get around the bigger guys.
* Alex Carcamo (200-F-77, college: E.Washington). 6.8 forward again. He brings a lot to the table as far as international experience. He just got the MVP down in Argentina professional league.
* Kyron Stokes (196-G). 6.4 guard. Kyron is a great shooter. He is going spot up and he is going to knock the shots down.
* Leon Watson (203-F/C-77, college: UTSA). He is a 6.10 guy that we are waiting for him to come in. Sonny is big and strong. He is going to be one of those guys who plays the center for us and he is going to be able to block shots and get rebounds for us so we can make fast breaks and go from there.
* Keenan Jourdon (202-F-74, agency: Paris Global Sports, college: Boston Coll.), 6.8 another guy that is a power forward center.

The guys who we didnt select, remember they are still on the national team and they just didnt get selected for this tournament.

But according to coach Siroki and the Belize Basketball Federation, no one was cut from the team the players who werent called simply didnt make it on this selection. And Coach Siroki says all the players are Belizeans.

Kevin Siroki,
We dont consider foreigners or locals so every one of the guys, every person that came down here or every person that is on that team has Belizean passports and had to have some Belizean heritage. So everyone of them, their parents, every one of their parents either their father or mother or both their parents have grown up here or are maybe still living here or have aunts or uncles who still have very close linkages to Belize. So as for what I am concerned, there is no local, there is no foreigners that is what I consider. We have 15 players on the team and so we have to cut it down to 12 before the tournament starts.

Charles Ellis, Vice President Basketball Federation
For us to do good and even win in any international tournament, we need the help of our foreign athletes, foreign Belizean athletes.

Julian Murrillo, Secretary General - BBF
The general mood in the room was a sombre mood. As I said before we were quite pleased to see the level of comrade that was developed over the past three weeks or so between all our players. As I said before we are very keen not to differentiate to make sure that we treat everybody the same way. But generally there was a sombre mood. I think people had mixed feelings. Those who made it, there were some surprises from the names that we called. Some people worked very hard and I think they were rewarded for their hard work and dedication. But for those who didnt make it, there was certainly quite a bit of empathy within the camp for people who didnt make it.

Charles Ellis,
We believe weve assembled one of the strongest team ever to represent the country of Belize for this upcoming tournament.

Two more players face elimination from the squad and that should be made once Leon Watson and Keenan Jourdan arrive. Their presence is considered critical since both have height which is something lacking in the current squad. Leon Watson by the way is delayed because of tryouts for the Houston Rockets.

Youll be able to see the 15 players in action tomorrow night in a scrimmage at the City Center. It starts at 7 pm and entrance is free. Practice sessions will also now be open to the public.

The tournament runs from the 10th to the 14th of August in Cancun. Belizes first game will be against Nicaragua followed by Guatemala and then Panama.

Courtesy of Channel 7

Milt Is Back! - by David Magana
And the man leading the national basketball selection will be Milton Palacio (190-G-78, college: Colorado St.). The basketball star who led Belize to gold in the 1998 CARICOM games, played in the NBA for five seasons, and has been playing in Europe for the past three years. 10 years after CARICOM, hes the backbone of the new national selection. He quietly arrived in Belize on Saturday and since then he has been practicing with the team. Following this evenings workout, Palacio gave his first television interview to 7News. He told Keith Swift how he feels to be back in Belize and why he believes this team has a strong chance of advancing in the Cocaba tournament.

Keith Swift,
What do you think of the team?

Milton Palacio, Member National Basketball Team
Very talented. It is a very talented team. I think at the guard position and the wing position, I think we will probably be the most talented or one of the most talented teams down there. Big man wise we are a little short but we do have Alex and we do have Braddick so were waiting Keenan Jourdan to come in and Sonny Watson to help give us a hand and I think we will be fine. I think if we just go out there and play hard we will be fine.

Keith Swift,
How do you compare this team to the team in 1998?

Milton Palacio,
I hear that so much. I dont know, I think the team in 1998, I think you will never have a team like that. I think that team back then was a special team, a special group of guys. We were here a month before, we stayed together, went to Venezuela, and so I think it is around the same talent but I think the talent level back then, we were a lot younger so I think we were better in 98 but this team will be good.

Keith Swift,
Should we expect a better performance from you?

Milton Palacio,
Uhm I think more poise and performance from me. Not being wild and crazy like when I was younger but still being effective. I think the game a little more. I think back then I was just trying to go off my athletic ability and my talent but now it is thinking of the game now and trying to get the guys more involved because back then I had to shoot a lot more and score a lot more but now I think there is a lot more scorers than 98. To be honest with you there is a lot more scorers but I think overall we had a lot of talent.

Keith Swift,
In announcing the cut today, the coach said that yourself along with Alex Carcamo will be the leaders of the team. Do you see yourself in that capacity?

Milton Palacio,
I think just me being the most seasoned guy here, having the most years and being here with CARICOM, I think all these guys could be leaders.

Keith Swift,
Are you satisfied with the selection that was made?

Milton Palacio,
You know my biggest thing is I didnt really want to be a part of that and say, having a say in that because I didnt want it to come back that Milt picked the team or anything like that. So I just really agreed with what they went on with and the guys, they are because when it comes to situations like this you got to go with your best regardless if it is local, foreign, or that.

I dont like to get caught up in the local or foreign because everybody has a Belize passport, everybody has Belizean roots, everybody is raised Belizean so I dont like it that way but I just think you got to bring your best 12 because Mexico is not going to look at foreigners this or foreigners that they are going to bring their best to win. Panama is not looking at who plays there or here, they are bringing their best 12 regardless of where they are from, they are bringing their best 12. So I think you got to bring your best twelve and that is the final decision.

Keith Swift,
What would you say to the local guys who thought they would make it on the selection and didnt?

Milton Palacio,
I think the biggest thing is you cant stop because were not going to be around for the December season and the other tournaments, we are not going to be around. Those guys are going to be here so those guys cant put their heads down. They didnt make it this time but they will definitely be needed for other tournaments and things like that so they have to keep working and keep their skill level up because there is a lot of talent in this country.

You cant keep your head down because you can get cut and then come back and play again. Ive been cut before but Ive put my head down, I just kept fighting and wanting to make myself better so the next time when it came around I made the team.

Milton will be playing alongside his nephew Kyron Stokes (196-G) who also made the cut. This is Miltons first visit to Belize since 2003.
Courtesy of Channel 7

Belize National Team for CoCaBa Championships - by David Magana
Belize 15 players selected for the upcoming CoCaBa Championships in Cancun, slated to run from the 10th until the 14th of August.Top two team will be qualified for the Centrobasket Tournament in 2010. The final list of the twelve players chosen will be known soon.

Clinton Fuller (196-F-80, college: Colorado Christian)
Charlie Burgess (185-G-84, college: Texas Tech)
Herbie Allen (180-G)
Milton Palacio (190-G-78, college: Colorado St.)
Alex Carcamo (200-F-77, college: E.Washington)
Gene Myvett (193-G-82, college: Cal.St.-Los Angeles)
Kyron Stokes (196-G)
Leon Watson (203-F/C-77, college: UTSA)
Marlon Garnett (188-G-75, college: Santa Clara)
Keith Acosta (193-G/F-76, college: Tex.A&M-Comm.)
Greg Rudon (180-G)
Stephen Williams (188-G-83)
Dakin Braddick (213-C-84, college: Benedict)
Keenan Jourdon (202-F-74, agency: Paris Global Sports, college: Boston Coll.)
Richard Troyer (196-F-84)

Head Coach: Kevin Siroki
Ass.Coaches: Frank Lord and Darren Bovell (193-F-70)

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BRAZIL

Brazilian U19 National Team 2009 - by Sahereh

Togni

Vinicius

Chatzicharalambous

dos Santos

Barba

Jefferson Campos (190-G-91) of Paulistano/Amil
Raul Togni (184-G-92) of Pitagoras/Minas Tenis Clube
Gobor Vinicius (185-G-90) of Paulistano/Amil
Vitor Benite (190-F/G-90) of E.C. Pinheiros Sao Paolo
Adonis Chatzicharalambous (190-G-90) of Olympiakos S.F.P. Pireus (GRE)
Caue Borges dos Santos (180-G-91) of Vivo/Franca Sao Paulo
Jefferson Socas (-90) of Majadahonda Spartans (ESP)
Frederico Dos Santos (-91)
Dalla Barba (198-F-91) of Univates/Bira Lajeado
Jordan Burger (203-F-91) of Ecija Cajasol Sevilla (ESP)
Rafael Donatti (201-F-91) of Paulistano/Amil
Andre De Souza (202-C-90)
Ronald dos Reis (210-C-90)
Jose Victor Jernimo (211-C-90)
Lucas Amarante (212-C-92)
Head Coach: Gustavo de Boni
Assistant: Ronaldo Pacheco

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BULGARIA

Corey McIntosh signed in France - by Vladi Lazarova
One of the best players in Bulgarian Men's basketball League for last the season Corey McIntosh (183-G-85, agency: Warren Sports International, college: Iowa St.), signed in France. 183 cm tall guard joined PROB club Saint Vallier Basket Drome, where he will spend the next year. The deal is closed and 23-years old American is unpatient to fly overseas again. But this time the destination will not be Varna, or Sofia, the capital of Bulgaria. It will be Paris for the beginning.

During 2008/2009 Corey McIntosh played in Bulgarian Evroins Cherno More (Varna), where he won a silver medal in NBL. With the team from Varna McIntosh participated also in the first edition of Balkan League. The question now is what will happen now with McIntosh. Corey has 2-years contract with Cherno More, which will expired after the end of 2009/2010 season. According to FIBA rules, he cannot sign a new contract at a new place, before breaking the old one with his current squad.

If Cherno More decide, they can sell their American shooter, but its 100% in the club are not ready to give him a permission to leave, without paying. Its not clear how expensive McIntosh is, but if in Saint Vallier really want him, they must be ready to open their wallets. For 34 games in NBL Corey has 17,0 ppg, 4,8 apg, 3,0 rpg.. He has 23,9 ppg, 4,7 apg, 3,0 rpg in 10 matches in Balkan League.

Bulgaria U18 won the first game of the Classification Round for 9th to 12th Places - by Eurobasket News
Germany U18-Bulgaria U18 47:55

Bulgaria won the first game of the Classification Round for 9th to 12th Places in U18 European Championship. The team overcame the German side 55:47 to play for the 9th place on Sunday.
Bulgaria scored the first points of the game and then Germany looked better in the court. The latter however could not score in the last 4 minutes of the period although they won it 12:10. Stanislav Tsonkov (191-G-91) tied the game at 12:12 and Bulgaria did not allow Germany to score in the first 8 minutes of the second period as well. After more than 10 minutes silence Danilo Barthel (205-F-91) gave Germany 13:19, while Ivanov posted for Bulgaria as they had 23:17 at the halftime. In the third period Germany bettered their position in scoring however could not reach the opponents. Mathis Monninghoff (198-G-92) made a three to close the third period at 43:33. In the last stanza the teams played even game, but Bulgaria saved their lead. Stanislav Tsonkov made it 49:41 and Planimir Dafinov (181-G-92) posted for 54:47. He made also the final score at 55:47 for the winners from the free throw line.
Emil Binev (198-F-91) led the way with 13 points, while Stanislav Tsonkov notched 11. Planimir Dafinov followed them with 10 points as Bulgaria U18 will hope for the higher place. Philipp Neumann (210-C-92) collected 16 points and 19 rebounds in defeat. Mathis Monninghoff posted 14 and Danilo Barthel had 11.

Germany U18: Philipp Neumann 16+19 rebs, Mathis Monninghoff 14, Danilo Barthel 11
Bulgaria U18: Emil Binev 13, Stanislav Tsonkov 11, Planimir Dafinov 10

Julian Radionov denies signing with Chernomorec - by Eurobasket News
Few days ago, reports in various Bulgarian media came out and stated that Julian Radionov (188-G-79) is set to sign with Chernomorets Burgas. Now the player himself came out to categorically deny such reports. Bulgarian portal Gong.bg recently conducted the interview with the player regarding the alleged transfer. Radionov took the opportunity to deny that he has signed with Chernomorets Burgas and that currently he is a free agent. His contract with Chenro More has expired, and according to the player, he still did not receive an offer from any Bulgarian club. Radoinov went on to state that he has negotiated with Cherno More about extension but nothing concrete was agreed. He also stated that he would like to finish his career at his hometown Burgas but nothing is a done deal yet neither with Cherno More nor with Chernomorets Burgas.
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 Mora, Akademik Sofia, Lukoil Akademik and BC 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 points and 1.8 rebounds 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 Bulgaria 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.

Lyubomir Minchev will not take over Balkan - by Eurobasket News
Newcomer to NBL, Balkan Botevgrad has received some rather unpleasant news that they have lost their Head Coach before he even started working. As it was recently reported that Balkan has agreed terms with Lyubomir Minchev as Head Coach they looked set to focus on building the squad. However, it looks like Minchev will not be joining Balkan after he has reportedly told Balkan's Director Ivan Gavalyugov that he is declining the offer. Minchev himself recently stated in an interview for Bulgarian media, that he has entertained the offer from Balkan, but that he decided to decline it. On the other hand, Gavalyugov stated that he was caught by surprise to learn that Minchev has changed his mind and backed out of the deal. Whose side of the story is truer is not that relevant right now, but more should be know in the coming days. One thing is for sure and that is that Balkan Management will have to look for new Head Coach who will try to secure NBL status next season.
Lyubomir Minchev had a successful playing career during which he played for lot of clubs in Bulgaria. His best season came in 2000 when he was voted 'Player of the Year', and one season later he won National Title with BC Levski. Minchev's last season came in 2005 when he was player and Assistant Coach. Minchev started his coaching career with Levski in 2005 when he took over as Head Coach. In three seasons with Levski he led them to Cup Finals in 2007. Last season, Minchev became Head Coach of Lukoil Akademik but has left the team in March 2009. Minchev also worked as Assistant Coach of Bulgarian National Team from 2006 until 2008.

Hristo Zahariev to take part in Adidas Nations Camp - by Valentin Anguelov
One of the best young prospects of Bulgarian basketball will take part in Adidas Nations Camp in Dallas, TX. The one invited is Hristo Zahariev (197-G/F-90) who will represent Bulgaria in Team Europe. This summer he was part of the U20 national team that disappointed a lot and finished 9th at the European championship in Division B. The guard though had a few impressive games and overall finished averaging 13.45 points and 5.45 rebounds per game.
Adidas Nations brings together the top 18 and under basketball players to compete in an international exhibition under the guidance of highly esteemed NBA veterans, coaches and players. Individually selected teams from the US, Canada, Latin America, Africa, Europe and Asia will all compete in Dallas August 4th 8th.
Head coach of Team Europe will be the former Siattle Supersonic and Portland TrailBlazer Detlef Schrempf 16 year NBA veteran and NBA All-Star while the mentor of the team will be Mike Conley from Memphis Grizzlies.
The main focus of Adidas Nations is to educate the worlds top youth players and improve the future success of the game. The Consolation Finals and Finals will be streamed live via free webcast on August 8th at http://www.eastbay.com/adidasnations

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CANADA

Nash coming home to the hardcourt - by Eurobasket News
Lawrie Johns says the timing couldn't be better.

Two years after playing an NBA exhibition game against the Seattle Sonics at GM Place, Steve Nash (190-G-74, college: Santa Clara) and the Phoenix Suns are returning to Vancouver to take on the Portland Trail Blazers.

The preseason game will take place on Oct. 22; tickets go on sale Aug. 8 through Ticketmaster.

Wednesday's announcement came along with confirmation of Nash's Showdown in Downtown charity soccer game set for Sept. 19 at David Lam Park in Yaletown.

'I think it's perfect timing,' Johns, Basketball BC's director of youth development, said of the NBA's exhibition return.

'In the two years since the last game here, I'd guess that we've had 3,000-4,000 kids join Steve Nash Youth Basketball that weren't here before.'

Johns used to organize 20 to 25 busloads of kids for trips down to Seattle to see Nash and the Suns take on the Sonics. The Sonics, though, moved to Oklahoma City after the 2007-08 season.

'I'm sure our young kids will be out there in droves, and there'll be lots of kids there who've never seen Steve play,' Johns added.

That's part of what makes Nash so happy about playing an NBA game in Vancouver. But his feelings go beyond the 5-to-13-year-olds, who Johns said Nash sometimes refers to as 'my kids.'

Victoria-raised Nash has continually expressed his sympathy for Grizzlies fans, whose team skipped town in 2001. And he has selfish reasons, too.

'It's very special,' the two-time NBA MVP said of returning to Vancouver to play a game.

'It's very disappointing that the Grizzlies no longer play in Vancouver. I felt in some ways that I was robbed of a special experience, a special connection. And I feel really bad for the fans in Vancouver. I felt they did a tremendous job of supporting the franchise.'

Wednesday offered up a double dose of delight for Nash fans, as he also firmed up some details around his Showdown in Downtown charity soccer game.

Nash ran his Charity Classic basketball game in Vancouver in 2006 and '07, but cancelled the event after attendance went from a sellout to 12,000. The soccer game is something fresh, he said, and there's also the small matter of him being part-owner of the Vancouver Whitecaps' Major League Soccer franchise, set to begin play in 2011.

He's run the free, urban-set soccer game in New York's Chinatown for two years, attracting the likes of Barcelona striker Thierry Henry. The Vancouver game, however, will be heavier on NBA names and lighter on soccer stars due to the timing.

'We had a great run with the three Classics,' Nash said (the first Charity Classic ran in Toronto in 2005). 'I think the bottom line is this one is much more deliverable. We have some more freedom here.

'It's a natural fit for me to take it to Vancouver. Let's bring them something new.'

Houston Rockets centre Yao Ming -- the first to commit to Nash -- won't play due to his foot injury, but Nash is hopeful the Chinese superstar will still be in attendance.

L.A. Clippers' Baron Davis and Boston Celtics' Rajon Rondo are confirmed, and Nash said he's working on a few retired soccer friends, including a World Cup winner.

The Whitecaps residency team will be involved, too, likely forming one of the eight-a-side teams.

Nash will also play alongside his Whitecaps-playing brother Martin, who was spotted in the New York game racing back to clear a ball off the goal line.

'All these stars show up and I think they have that attitude [that it's simply a fun, charity game] until they get on the park,' said Steve. 'It quickly turns into a serious affair, but everyone's got a smile on their face. That's an amazing situation.

'So, I'll be on him [Martin] if he doesn't hustle back and clear one off the line.'

Courtesy of www.theprovince.com

Toronto Raptors announce Marco Belinelli and Rasho Nesterovic - by Eurobasket News
The Toronto Raptors announced Thursday they have acquired guard Marco Belinelli (196-G-86) from the Golden State Warriors in exchange for forward Devean George and cash considerations.

'Marco fills a void at the wing position where his shooting and scoring strengths will be needed. Marco's versatility and playmaking abilities make him a very valuable piece for us, said Bryan Colangelo, Raptors president and general manager.

Belinelli, the 18th overall pick in the 2007 NBA Draft, averaged 8.9 points, 2.1 assists, 1.7 rebounds and 21.0 minutes in 42 games last season with Golden State. He registered four 20-point games during the 2008-09 campaign, including a career-high 27 points Dec. 12, 2008, at Atlanta.

Prior to joining the Warriors, the 23-year-old, 6-foot-5 guard from Bologna, Italy, played professionally in Italy for five seasons. He is a member of the Italian National Team.

The Raptors also announced Thursday they have signed free-agent centre Radoslav Nesterovic (212-C-76). Per team policy, financial details were not disclosed.

'Rasho brings us back a great veteran presence who has a familiarity with our coaching staff and several players. His leadership and personality will be great assets for this team,' said Colangelo.

Nesterovic, 7-foot, 255 pounds, rejoins the Raptors following one campaign in Indiana with the Pacers. The 11-year NBA veteran played two seasons with Toronto (2006-08) averaging 6.9 points, 4.6 rebounds and 20.9 minutes in 151 games.

Nesterovic was a first-round selection (17th overall) by the Minnesota Timberwolves in 1998. He has posted career averages of 7.0 points, 5.3 rebounds, 1.1 blocks and 22.8 minutes in 769 career games, 587 of them as a starter. He was a member of the San Antonio Spurs 2005 NBA Championship team.

Courtesy of the Toronto Raptors

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CAPE VERDE

Cape Verde National team prepares for Afrobasket in Rio Maior, Portugal - by Pedro Gomes
The Cape Verdean mens National team, Silver medal in the 2nd Lusophone Games, is already in Rio Maior (Portugal) working
under the orders of the Nigerian coach Alex Nwora, preparing for the Afrobasket, to take place August 5-15, in Libya.

The decision of Alex Nwora having abandoned the national team, at the end of the Lusophone Games before Angola, was
not accepted by the Cape Verdean, which brought up many implications, but the Cape Verdean Basketball Federation happened
to defend the coach with the argument that he had to go to Nigeria due to family issues.

The staff of the national federation made a public communication that the objective of the national team is to do better than
the Bronze Medal, achieved at the last African Championship in Angola, when the team was been coached by Emanuel Trovoada
Man.

Cape Verde will debut in the 2009 Afrobasket on August 5 against Tunisia, Group D, alongside with the national teams from
Morocco (second round) and Rwanda (third round).

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CHILE

Dimayor: new faces for Sagrados Corazones - by Daniel Valencia
CD Sagrados Corazones announced the signing of two new players for Dimayor's regular season. The center Ricardo Lepe (200-C-69) and the american power forward John Ruffus (207-F/C-81, college: Fayetteville St.) will be ready to play this weekend in the games against Osorno and Llanquihue.

Ricardo Lepe has playing experience in Dimayor with Colo-Colo in the 90's and with Boston College during this decade. Rufus already played in our country. In 2007 he played for Deportes Ancud and last year was part of the playoffs roster for Provincial Llanquihue. He will be replacing Marcos Hubner (204-F/C-82, college: Abil.Christian), that was ejected form a game last weekend and was suspended for four games.

The brazilian, Marcos Hubner, played 13 games during the Apertura tournament, with averages of 14.0 points, 15.3 rebounds, 1.5 steals, 2.7 blocks and 1,1 assists in 33.0 minutes per game, mean while in Dimayor's Clausura tournament he played 6 games with averages of 16.3 points, 11.3 rebounds, 1.5 steals, 2.2 blocks and 0.8 assists in 32.7 minutes per game.

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CHINA

Jordan NT beat Shan Dong Team - by Robert Wang
Tonight, Jordan NT played against Shan Dong team in a tournament and Jordan won at 71:51. First quaor is at 15:13. 2nd is at 28:18, 3rd quator is at 46:36. Shan Dong has been playing with their local imports from Liao Ning team included Gu Li Ye, Liu Xiang Tao and Yang Ming. But they are not in good shape and just start to play their first game in shan Dong. These 2 teams will go to De Zhou City tomorrow for another game.

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COLOMBIA

Antioquia won its 4th straight National Men Champioship - by Victor Garcia
rAntioquia defeated the hos team San Andrs Islas in the final game to claim its 4th straight Nationa Tittle, for this year Antioquia bring Stalin Ortiz and made a stronger roster, San Andrs played with hearth leaded by Joe Manuel and Cesar Cortez but its effort was not enough.
Bogot with a young team including players like Bacci, Caicedo, Medoza and the most veteran Berrio got the third place defeating Choco in , Choc had Edgar Moreno and Eleuterio Renteria.

The final standing was:

1- Antioquia
2- San Andrs A
3- Bogot D.C.
4- Choc
5- Valle
6- San Andrs B
7- Cundinamarca
8- Santander.

Norbey Aragn from Antioquia was the best player of the tournament. Norbey Aragon (194-G/F-78, college: Georgia SW)

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CROATIA

Ivan Papac terminates contract with Zagreb, set for move to Belgium - by Eurobasket News
Zagreb has decided to allow its 210cm center to terminate the contract and to start looking for a new club. Ivan Papac (210-F/C-87) arrived to Zagreb as a great prospect who can play both inside and out. However, he never received the chance to establish himself at Zagreb and has decided to try his luck elsewhere. It seems that he will not have to search for a new club for long, as BC Liege has already expressed interest in bringing 22-year old player. Liege was recently taken by Dario Gjergja (agency: Agency No 10 ) which is familiar with Papac's abilities. He is reportedly looking to give Papac a chance and make him second signing for Belgium Club. According to various media reports, Papac will most likely sign two-year deal with Belgium outfit. Prior to signing Papac, Liege has already signed a deal with Andrija Stipanovic (208-C-86).
Ivan Papac is a product of Zagreb youth system. After spending a season at Zadar junior Team, Papac signed first professional contract with Zagreb in 2004. Still he has played very sporadically even though he was brought as a great young prospect. Last season, Papac appeared in only 6 League games and averaged 4.5 points and 2.5 rebounds per game. In Adriatic League he averaged 1.9 points in 8 games while in EuroCup he appeared in 5 games. He has won National Cup with BC Zagreb. Papac was a member of all Croatian Youth National Teams.

Lithuania U18 proved the ambitions - by Eurobasket News
Lithuania U18-Croatia U18 74:55 (16-16, 20-16, 13-15, 25-8)

Lithuania U18 proved the ambitions for the top places and advanced to the Semifinals of the U18 European Championship Men 2009, in Metz, France. The Baltic side won over Croatia 74:55 to remain undefeated.
The favorites started with 5-0 run and Jonas Valanciunas (211-C-92) netted for 9:2. Toni Prostran (183-G-91) reduced for 9:8, while Bubalo made it 12:11. Staniulis tied the game at 16:16 at the end of the first frame. Again Lithuania opened the second period with 6-0 run and Staniulis improved to 27:20. After 20-16 in the quarter Vytenis Cizauskas (189-G-92) scored for 36:32 at the halftime. The third quarter became the most interesting in the game as both teams remained hot in the game. Lithuania was in front for the majority of the period and kept 49:47 at the end. Ivan Batur (202-F-91) tied it at the beginning of the last stanza, but then Lithuania was too good in the game. A 25-8 in the last quarter to take 74:55 victory.
Jonas Valanciunas top-scored for the winners with 16 points and 11 rebounds. Vytenis Cizauskas collected 15 points and 10 boards, while Mantas Kadzevicius (193-G-91) notched 10. Toni Prostran delivered 14 points in defeat, Ivan Batur posted 11 and Dino Jakolis (198-G-91) added 10.
In the Semifinal Lithuania will play agaist the hosts, France.

Lithuania U18: Jonas Valanciunas 16+11 rebs, Vytenis Cizauskas 15+10 rebs, Mantas Kadzevicius 10
Croatia U18: Toni Prostran 14, Ivan Batur 11, Dino Jakolis 10

Rumor: Kus set to join Benetton Treviso? - by Eurobasket News
Reports have surfaced in various Croatian media that Davor Kus (192-G-78) is close to joining Benetton Treviso. After good season with BC Cibona where Kus was one of the team leaders, he has attracted interest of clubs across Europe. It seems that Benetton will be the quickest to the player's signature, so Kus could be heading for his third European adventure. Kus is seen as ideal replacement for Lithuanian International Mantas Kalnietis (195-G-86, agency: Interperformances) who has reportedly signed a contract with Benetton but later changed his mind. If this deal materializes, Kus would be joining Sandro Nicevic (210-C-76, agency: Beo Basket), who is already representing the club from Treviso. In the next few days it will be know whether this deal will go through.
Davor Kus started his career with BC Susak, but has played for numerous teams in Croatia including Croatia Line , Sava Osiguranje Rijeka and Cibona Zagreb. He was most successful at Cibona with whom he has won a host of trophies. He won two cups in 2001 and 2002 as well as five national titles. In 2007, Kus singed for Spanish outfit Unicaja Malaga. In his first year with the club he played in 20 Euroleague games, averaging 8.1 points and 1.5 assists per game. In Spanish League he played in 34 games averaging 8.7 points and 1.7 assist. This year, Kus started with Unicaja, but was loaned to Cibona in September of 2008. He helped Cibona win National Title after averaging 15.2 points in 16 League games. With Kus, Cibona also reached finals of Adriatic League and here Kus played in 28 games averaging 12.8 points.

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CZECH REPUBLIC

Ukraine U18 remains in Division A - by Eurobasket News
Czech Republic U18-Ukraine U18 70:79

Ukraine U18 remains in Division A for the next year after the victory in their last game in France. The team however sent Czech Republic to Division B after 79:70 at the U18 European Championship.
Jaromir Bohacik (195-F-92, agency: PPGroup) opened the game for the Czechs , however it was the only lead for them. Ukraine grabbed the lead immediately and finished the opening quarter at 21:12. Honomichl reduced to 25:14 and he also tied the game at 27:27. Ukraine did not allow them to take over and ended up the half with 42:36. The latter improved to 58:48 after three quarters and desired the win more. Maksym Sandul (207-C-91) made a jump shot for 70:58, while V'Yacheslav Bobrov (202-F-92) scored for 77:70. Oleksandr Lypovyy (200-G-91) brought the victory from the free throw line as Ukraine stays in the top division.
V'Yacheslav Bobrov was unstoppable with 35 points and 10 rebounds for the winners. Andriy Lebedintsev (186-G-91) nailed 13, while Oleksandr Lypovyy and Maksym Sandul added 11 each. Martin Kriz (197-F-93) and Jaromir Bohacik delivered 15 points each in the losing effort.
In another game of the group Greek U18 National Team ensured the Division A spot for the next year. They grabbed the third straight win to clinch the top spot in Group G and avoid relegation. Israel slipped at 1-2 record and joins Czech Republic in Division B.

Czech Republic U18: Martin Kriz 15, Jaromir Bohacik 15
Ukraine U18: V'Yacheslav Bobrov 35+10 rebs, Andriy Lebedintsev 13, Oleksandr Lypovyy 11, Maksym Sandul 11

Nymburk get Vincent Hunter and Ron Lewis - by Eurobasket News
The Czech NBL champions Nymburk bolstered their squad with addition of Vincent Hunter (208-F-84, college: Arkansas). The 25-year-old forward started the last season in the Finnish Korisliiga. He averaged 17.1 points and 6.6 boards per game for Forssan Koripojat. But in December 2008 Vincent Hunter moved to the UPC league in Slovenia joining Zlatogor Lasko. His average stats there came up to 13.2 points, 6.7 boards and 1.0 steals per game.
Nymburk concluded their roster build up tonight. They added Ron Lewis (193-G-84, agency: Arik Krayn Services, college: Ohio St.) to the squad. In the meantime Ales Chan (214-C-80, agency: Edge Sports, college: Seton Hill) left the team.
Ron Lewis arrived to Czech Republic from Israel. There the 25-year-old guard played for Ironi Nahariya. He tallied 18.5 points, 3.7 boards and 2.0 assists in the previous season. The Ohio State University graduate Ron Lewis had stints in CBA and Belgium before moving to Israel.
Ales Chan played 38 games for Nymburk in the last season. His stats came up to 4.6 points and 2.3 boards per game.

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DENMARK

Danish National Team 2009 - by Sahereh

Darbo

Jakobsen

Plannthin

Hesseldal

Hansen

4 Adama Darbo (190-G-86) of CB Huelva Baloncesto (ESP)
5 Andreas Jakobsen (187-G-83) of Bakken Bears
6 Mikkel Plannthin (195-G-88) of Svendborg Rabbits
7 Casper Hesseldal (198-F-85) of Northwest JC (WY) (USA)
8 Jakob Hansen (206-C-86) of Svendborg Rabbits
9 Henrik Thomsen (203-G/F-84) of SISU Copenhagen
10 Hans Schur (203-F/C-83) of Horsens IC
11 Jens Hakanowitz (204-F/C-80) of SG Oslebshausen Roosters (GER)
12 Mike Flowers (193-G/F) of Barton College (USA)
13 Niccolai Iversen (205-F-80) of Aget Imola (ITA)
14 Mads Bloch (202-F/C-90) of Bakken Bears
15 Alan Voskuil (191-G-86) of Alta Gestion Fuenlabrada Madrid (ESP)
Head Coach: Allan Foss

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D-LEAGUE

BayHawks set free agent tryout date - by Eurobasket News
The NBA Development League Erie BayHawks have set local, free agent tryouts for September 19 - 20, at the Family First Sports Park, 8155 Oliver Road.

Players interested in participating in the free agent tryout can get all of the necessary registration forms by visiting the BayHawks office at 110 East 8th Street or online at ErieBayhawks.com. A registration fee of $150, in the form of a money order or cashier's check payable to the Erie BayHawks must accompany the completed forms received by September 15. For all registrations received after September 15 and at the first day of tryouts the fee will be $175.

'We had a good turnout for tryouts last season and had good luck finding players who were ready to play at this level,' said BayHawks head coach John Treloar (agency: Warren Sports International ). 'Ivan (Harris) and Jarvis (Gunter) came out of our Erie tryouts to make the team, so we know the talent is out there.'

Space for the tryouts is limited, interested participants should register early to guarantee their place. Hopefuls should arrive prepared to participate in team drills, individual skills work and scrimmages. BayHawks coaches and Cleveland Cavaliers staffers will be on hand for player evaluations.

For more information visit ErieBayHawks.com or contact the BayHawks office at 814-790-5600.

Courtesy of The Erie BayHawks

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EBA

Montgomery All-Stars Ready to Shine!!!!!!!!! - by Justin Moore
it seems that former standout Calvin Brown (6'9''-C-83, college: Norfolk St.) has turned in his jersey with madness, for a suit and tie. That's right Calvin is proud to be the newest EBA owner of the Montgomery County All-Stars. They are set to have their first try-out this weekend. For more information and or inquires about team scrimmages you can send your questions or request to getinfo@centercourtonline.com or cbrown@centercourtonline.com

Elmira Bulldogs announce seven players and courts for the upcoming season - by Gianni Pascucci
At a press conference held on Thursday, July 30th at 1:00pm inside First Arena, the Elmira Bulldogs announced the signing of seven players. In addition the team announced that South Side High School will also host home games for the Bulldogs as well as First Arena. The players signed are: reigning 2009 EBA League MVP Aubin Scott (6'2''-G-83, college: LIU Brooklyn), strong inside operator Eric Bresett (6'8''-C-85), forwards Kenny Gethers (6'3''-G/F-85, college: RIT), Brandon Lawley (6'6''-F-85, college: Mansfield (PA)) and Demaija Stewart (6'6''-F-79), point guard Brian Jackson (6'1''-G-84, college: Mountain St.) and small forward Darnell Jackson (6'6''-G/F-83, college: Daemen)

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EUROBASKET SUMMER LEAGUE

Eurobasket Summer League Las Vegas announces All Tournament Team and All Big Man team - by Darryl Reshaw
Eurobasket Summer League (ESL) Las Vegas 2009 announces the All Tournament Team and All Big Men Team.
The ESL featured some outstanding players this summer in Chicago, Malaga Spain, Las Vegas and New York City.
However in Las Vegas the ESL assembled the best talent outside of the NBA Summer League.

The Co MVPs were Myles McKay (191-G, college: Wisc.-Whitew.) and Kyle Lamonte (191-G-84, agency: Beggs and Lane, college: William Carey) both from the ESL Las Vegas Championship team.

Myles McKay - was the biggest surprise in the ESL Las Vegas event considering there were a lot of players with professional experience and other players from notable major college programs.
In the 2008-09 season Myles McKay was nominated a NCAA D3 All American and played for the University of Wisconsin Whitewater where he posted some outstanding numbers.
In his first game at the ESL he was rather quiet but his defensive pressure on the opposing PGs was outstanding and scouts witnessed a glimpse of his unique talent.
However in the semifinal he exploded for 21 points, 7 rebounds and 7 assists dazzling the audience at the Orleans Arena with very smooth penetration moves off the dribble for either sweet finishes around the basket, feather like jump shorts or easy layups for his team mates. He is a master of creating off the dribble and is very tricky being left handed but at the same time he is 6'4' and very long arms with a silky smooth jump shot. He is very efficient with his scoring opportunities and does not need to dominate the ball because he fits in well within a team structure and moves well without the ball. Defensively he is quick and has very long arms creating problems for smaller guards. In the championship game Myles McKay scored 23 points and 4 rebounds but was dominate in the overtime period as he scored the majority of the points for Monaco hitting all of the crucial free throws and a big 3pt shot to ice the championship. Our ESL staff liked the fact that he demanded the basketball in the overtime period and had that special winning mentality.
With more experience and a little strength training he will be a Euroleague type player and has the talent to be a NBA prospect in the very near future.
He was the ultimate surprise of the ESL Las Vegas event and we are looking forward to follow his development in Europe.

Kyle Lamonte - was sensational in the ESL Las Vegas 2009 event as he was the leader of the winning Monaco team and led the ESL in assists. Kyle made the ESL Las Vegas 2008 All Tournament Team in Las Vegas and was the MVP of the ESL Chicago event in 2008. As a result Kyle landed a contract in Turkey but ended up in the minor leagues in the United States. Last year Kyle was a special player on defense and was a score first guard but this season you could notice a more mature game featuring better control and a sweet mid-range jump shot. Kyle probably could have scored over 25ppg in the ESL event but he picked his spots perfectly and looked more like a leader. He is a very athletic combo guard who can do it all and has the talent to play at the highest level in Europe.

ESL Las Vegas 1st Team All Tournament:

Myles McKay Co MVP
Kyle Lamonte Co MVP

Bennet Davis (206-F-84, agency: KMG Sports Management, college: Northeastern) - Bennet is a high level player in Europe and has played in Israel and last season played in the NBDL. He definitely was one of the best players in the ESL event in Las Vegas and at 6'9' is very athletic and can play the swing and power forward positions. He is great around the basket and has a great slashing game to the basket. He will play at a high level in Europe for while and is an outstanding prospect with a bright future in the prominent leagues in Europe.

Emmanuel Little (196-F-85, college: N.Dakota) - Emmanuel was simply fantastic at the ESL Las Vegas event and showed his nice all around game. Emmanuel is a warrior on the court and is one of the most intense competitors you will see on a basketball court. Emmanuel is extremely athletic, plays above the basket, versatile to play the 1,2 & 3 positions and is an outstanding defensive player. He creates of the dribble and is a dynamic slasher and scores in transition due to his deer like qualities. He is 6'5' but rebounds like he is 69 and last season made the ESL All Tournament Teams in Chicago and Salt Lake City. As a result he was the #2 pick in the 2008 CBA draft and eventually landed in Japan where he had an outstanding 2008-09 season. He is an outstanding prospect for teams in Europe looking for a very athletic player who does it all.

Nate Linhart (201-F-87, college: Akron) - Nate was a victory and an early flight from winning the ESL Championship and a possible MVP of the ESL Las Vegas event. In the 2008-09 season he was the MAC Defensive Player of Year and his talent was on display at the ESL. He scored, rebound and played excellent defense leading his team to the ESL Championship game and was probably offered contracts in Europe on the spot in Las Vegas. However he had to leave in the third quarter of the ESL Championship which his team lost in overtime to catch a flight back home. His team lost their best player and if Nate had played the forth quarter there was a possibility Dublin may have won the game. Sometimes you looked at him in amazement witnessing his defensive skills, knack for rebounding and offensive skills. He runs the court like a deer and is always around the ball. Nate Linhart is a player that will do extremely well in Europe next season.

Kevin Sowell (190-G-81) - Kevin was the most exciting and athletic guard at the ESL Las Vegas event. He has crazy ball handing skills and can break anyone in the world down off the dribble. He is extremely confident and a little cocky but definitely can back it up. He is an athletic freak and when he gets on a fast break its like a NBA highlight. His mid range game is virtually impossible as he will come down and nail 5 - 6 jump shots in a row with no problem. He is so talented is scary but exciting as he posted the best statistics in the ESL Las Vegas event and one game he had a triple double. Kevin has the talent to play at a very high level in Europe but has to tone down his decision making a little.

Ronald Allen (208-F/C-84, agency: Elleby Sports, college: Cincinnati) - Ronald is a highly skilled 610 player who can flat out shoot he ball and is an excellent prospect in Europe. He was one of the most consistent performers at the ESL Las Vegas event playing well in all three games. He plays well on the inside and is a quality athlete and rebounder. However his unique skill is the ability to take the big guys to the perimeter and simply destroy them with a pure jump shot from anywhere. He is a big time talent that played in the NBDL in 2008-09 but needs to start making money in Europe in the high quality leagues.

Brandon Smith (198-G/F-86, college: Minnesota) - Brandon is very talented and once was considered a future NBA prospect at the University of Minnesota. He was outstanding in Las Vegas displaying his nice athleticism and pure jump shot. He also takes the ball to the basket and scores in a variety of ways. Brandon was blessed with the perfect basketball body and athleticism with serious skills. He deserves an opportunity to display his talents in Europe. He is that diamond in the rough player who will be a big time steal. In college he did not play his final two seasons due to unknown circumstances to the ESL but has the talent to play anywhere.

Melvin Tyler (206-F-84, agency: Elleby Sports, college: St.John's) - Melvin is a big man with unlimited potential due to his power, athleticism and great footwork. In the ESL Las Vegas event he was unstoppable and every time we looked up at the ESL he was dunking all over the opposition. He played in South America and in Finland in the past but has the ability to play at a higher level in Europe soon. He needs a quality situation in Europe and his future is unlimited. Melvin was probably the best power forward/ center at the ESL in Las Vegas.

Riley Luettgerodt (196-G/F-85, college: Hawaii) - Riley can flat out play and looked like a veteran European professional at the ESL in Las Vegas. He is a great shooter but takes the ball to the basket at will. He mixes up his scoring opportunities well and has a nice mid range game. He is a good athlete as well and should being playing in high quality leagues in Europe with no problems. The ESL staff kept asking who is that guy? His scoring ability was well appreciated by all of the ex-professionals who were on our staff. He is a former University of Hawaii player who posted qualities statistics in college as well. He would be a perfect player for the top leagues in Poland, Belgium or Germany but has the skills to advance to the highest level in Europe.

ESL Las Vegas 2nd Team All Tournament:

Mike Copeland (201-F-85, college: N.Carolina) - Mike did not get the opportunity to play a lot of minutes for North Carolina the 2008-09 NCAA National Champions due to injuries and a stockpile of future NBA players. However at the ESL Las Vegas he was the emotional leader for the Dublin team and he scored and rebounded well. He hit some big time 3pt shots during crucial periods for the Dublin team who lost in overtime in the ESL championship game. Mike played great defense and scored inside well especially when the team really needed some scoring. He definitely can play in Europe and it will be interesting to see where he lands.

John Millsap (198-F-82, college: UTSA) John was a scoring machine in the CBA and in the ESL Las Vegas he was probably the most aggressive scorer in the Orleans Arena. When he gets the ball he is always looking to attack.
He has the size, athleticism and work ethic to be a great scorer in Europe and will find a team soon. He is the older brother of Paul Milsap from the Utah Jazz but is looking to establish his own legacy in Europe.

Andy Gebru (193-G-87, college: Fayetteville St.) - Andy played great all tournament considering he was surrounded with a lot of other talented players who needed the ball. He is a big guard who can play both positions and has a very consistent jump shot. He plays good defense, rebounds well and quietly will post quality numbers on limited opportunities. He was the quite killer of this years ESL Las Vegas event. He is a steal for a European team looking for a combo who can do it all.

Jamal Johnson (201-F-81, college: Clayton St.) - Jamal is a very talented performer who looked great in Las Vegas. He can really flat out score and rebound. He has professional experience in Venezuela and other markets but would be a quality player in Europe. He is athletic and has great size. He can really shoot the ball and well as score inside. Jamal has a quality game and will do extremely well next season.

Chris Hayes (206-F-87, college: Detroit Mercy) - Chris was the ESL MVP in Chicago and was one of the most talented players with all the tools our staff scouted this summer. At 69 he can play (3) positions and guard probably (4) positions.
He is extremely athletic and can really score inside and outside. He is a highlight in waiting and has the skill set to play in France Pro A or Italy A2 today. He was one of the most talented players in Las Vegas but his whole team had a poor performance in the semi-final and he landed on the ESL Las Vegas All Tournament 2nd Team. He has the potential to be a Euroleague player in the next few years. He is definitely that good.

Terquin Mott (203-F-74, agency: EM-PA, college: Coppin St.) - He is a veteran player in excellent shape with great scoring skills and a supreme knowledge of the game. He used his skill, experience and great shooting touch to school the younger players at the ESL in Las Vegas at will. We could tell he has played in some of the top leagues in Europe and would be an asset for a team looking for player with size, skill and experience.
In Las Vegas Terquin presence was intimidating to the younger players.

Derrick Stevens (180-G-80, agency: Elleby Sports, college: Colorado St.) - The former ESL MVP of 2008 put up some serious number in the three day event but his team lost by large margins and struggled in the tournament. Derrick is a strong scoring PG who can take it to the basketball using his skill and craftiness. He also has an excellent jump shot and would be a quality player for a team looking for a veteran PG with skills.

Terrance Whiters (183-G, college: Arkansas Tech) - He only played two games in the ESL but he was a 1st Team type of performer. This guy was unbelievable offensively and defensively. In one game at the ESL the guards on the opposing team were actually frighten to bring the ball up court against him. In that game he had maybe (4) four straight steals against a couple of guards who had fear in their persona when they played against him. He is so fast and quick and can score at will. He is a big time talent who has the potential to go all the way in Europe. If he did not get hurt and played all the games he would have been on the 1st team for sure. Look out Europe for the exciting PG from Baltimore.

Jessan Gray (208-F-84, agency: Beggs and Lane, college: Iowa St.) - Jessan is a big finesse player who can score and really shoot the ball. He had an excellent ESL Las Vegas event and we believed was offered a contract on the spot. He is a legit 610 but has the softest touch. He slashes, rebounds and also run the floor very well. Jessan played in Finland last season but was injured a lot in the past year. Once healthy he is definitely a quality player who is a natural 3/4 player.

Rickey Huckaby (183-G-83, college: Tex.A&M-Kingsv.) - Rickey is scary quick and exciting to watch. All the guards that faced him in Las Vegas backed up several feet and were forced to respect his speed and quickness. His talent is unlimited and he showed why he averaged over 31ppg in Kuwait in 2008-09. The kid has the tools and athleticism of a NBA type PG. He was the talk of the ESL in Las Vegas by many scouts.

Rashad West (185-G-84, college: Hampton) - Rashad had the sweetest jump shot at the ESL and can score with the best of them. Rashad is an excellent scoring PG with silky moves and the ability to play at a high level in Europe.
He creates off the dribble extremely well and directs the team nicely. Last season Rashad did well in Argentina but this season we expect him to land on a quality team in Europe. He is a former ALL MEAC standout with a lot of potential to have a great European career.

ESL Las Vegas ALL Big Man Team:

Melvin Tyler -

Ronald Allen -

Terquin Mott

Chris Hayes

Bennet Davis -

Carey Rigsby (206-F/C-80, agency: Prime Select Sports, college: Belhaven) - Carey was definitely one of the best inside prospects in the ESL Las Vegas event and had two quality games but probably did not get the ball enough due to all of the talented perimeter players on the Brussels team. He is strong and athletic and displayed skills to play at a quality level in Europe. He already has professional experience but requires a quality team in Europe. He is an outstanding prospect. Carey probably should have been on the ESL All Tournament Team.

John Ruffus (207-F/C-81, college: Fayetteville St.) - John did everything at the ESL event. He finishes well around the basket and has excellent hands, footwork and pro size. Like his team mate Carey Rigsby he played two quality games but lacked touches on the talented packed Brussels team. John was outstanding in the PBL last season and would be an excellent choice for a quality European team looking for a big man with skills. John definitely deserves to be on the ESL Las Vegas All Tournament team but his team did not get him the ball enough. He is a nice inside talent.

Dan Waterstradt (208-C-86, college: Oakland) - Dan had an outstanding tournament and shot the ball extremely well from the perimeter. He is an excellent rebounder who has great size but most of his offensive production is perimeter orientated but he is a great shooter from deep. He is an excellent prospect for a European team looking for a big who can shoot the lights out.

Glen Whisby (203-C/F-72, college: S.Mississippi) - Glen has played in the ACB in Spain, Italy, Russia, Turkey, and France where he was considered one of the top American inside players in Europe around the year 2000. The past two seasons Glen dominated the Slovakian League posting double doubles and winning the Slovakian Championship averaging 17ppg and 11rpg in 2008. In Las Vegas the veteran player showed he could still mix it up with the young studs and used his experience, size and skill to impress scouts at the Orleans Arena. Glen still has a couple of years left and his athleticism is still in place and would be a valuable commodity for a team needing a reliable inside presence.

Calvin Roland (208-C/F-83, agency: Pro One Sports, college: Va Commonwealth) - Calvin is a big man who loves to bang and did a great job of providing an inside presence for his team at the ESL in Las Vegas. He had three solid performances while scoring and rebounding well. He has a couple of years of experience in Europe and should land a job in Europe for a team looking for a big who knows how to do him job.

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EUROLEAGUE

Olimpija inks Kikowski - by Zeljko Zule
Slovenian champion Union Olimpija announced the signing of guard-forward Pawel Kikowski (193-G-86, agency: Limelight Hoops) till June 2012. Kikowski arives from Kotwica Kolobrzeg, where he averaged 12,4 points, 2,0 rebounds and 2,4 assists in 2008-09 Polish League. He is also a regular member of the Polish national team and is set to take part in the upcoming EuroBasket 2009.

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EUROPEAN CHAMPIONSHIPS U18

Day: 7 (Quarter-Finals) - by Eurobasket News

Quarterfinals

Italy - Serbia 74-82
Serbia U18 became the second Semifinalist of the U18 European Championship Men 2009, in Metz, France. The team overcame Italy 82:74 due to the second period. Serbia were going up 6:2 before Italy eventually got going and took a 13:10 lead on Andrea De Nicolao's three-pointer. Torlak however closed the period with 5-0 with his team for 15:13. The Serbs though used a 9-0 run spanning the end of the first quarter and early part of the second to go up 19:13 on Branislav Djekic's hook shot. Contento tied the game at 21:21 and then again Serbia exploded with 10-0 run. De Nicolao was able to cut it to 31:29 and Riccardo Moraschini (195-G-91) sent the teams to the lockers for 35:33. Iannuzzi tied the game at the beginning of the third, while Polonara brought Italians 42:37. After 54:54 Serbia needed 6-0 run to close the third at 60:54. Italy tried hard but cloud not stay closer to the winners. Riccardo Moraschini made the last shot in the game for 82:74.Andjusic top-scored for the winners with 23 points for the Semifinal birth. Musli collected 19 points and 12 rebounds, while Djekic added 16. De Nicolao finished the game with 22 points and Riccardo Moraschini posted 13.

Spain - Turkey 62-76
Turkey upset Spain at the quarter-final encounter at the U18 European Championship Men 2009 in Metz, France. The fourth team of Group F overcame the winner of Group E 76:62 and advanced to the semifinals. In the opening quarter the teams exchanged the baskets and remained close all the time. Only in the end of the period Spain grabbed 14:12 as Lorenzo made a lay-up. Servera tied the game at 21:21 and then Franch gave Spain 26:21. Turkey finished the half on top though with Burak Yuksel hitting from beyond the arc before Mutaf tied it at 26 from the foul line. Turkey had 30:28 at the halftime after 18-14 in the second period. The latter did not even think of slowing down when the teams came back from the lockers. Mutaf made a jump shot for 40:31 and Mutaf scored for 45:35. Servera closed the third period at 52:44 with a jump shot. No matter how hard Spain tried to catch up, Turkey kept the necessary difference. Mutaf scored for 61:49 midway through the last quarter and Enes Kanter (206-C-92) gave Turkey 61:51. Onguner was to last to post in the game as Turkey celebrated the important victory. Enes Kanter was unstoppable with 21 points and 18 rebounds for the winners. Mutaf nailed 17 and Aldemir scored 11. Franch delivered 12 for Spain and Llovet chipped in 11.

France - Russia 74-61
France U18 became the last Semifinalist of the U18 European Championship Men 2009 in Metz, France. The hosts of the tournament overcame Russia in the last game of the day 74:61. Russia upset the hosts from the start and took 201-9 after the opening quarter. Evan Fournier (198-G/F-92) gave France 21:20 and Lebrun scored for 29:24. Cairo scored inside for a 35:26 lead and, when Stojiljkovic hit consecutive three-pointers before feeding a cutting Cairo for a lay-up, Les Bleus led 43:27. Ivan Lazarev had a dunk in the closing seconds of the second quarter, one in which Russia were outscored 24-9. The latter bounced back with 18-11 in the third period and reduced to 54:47 entering the last frame. Moreover Shavkunov made it 54:49, however France did not slow down. The hosts won the last quarter 20-14 and advanced to the top four teams. Evan Fournier paced all the winners with 20 points for the Semifinal birth. Lebrun netted 10, while Kandolo Okonda Kahudi and Paschal scored 9 apiece. Kulagin finished the game with 21 points and Shavkunov had 11.

Lithuania - Croatia 74-55
Lithuania U18 proved the ambitions for the top places and advanced to the Semifinals of the U18 European Championship Men 2009, in Metz, France. The Baltic side won over Croatia 74:55 to remain undefeated. The favorites started with 5-0 run and Jonas Valanciunas (211-C-92) netted for 9:2. Prostran reduced for 9:8, while Bubalo made it 12:11. Staniulis tied the game at 16:16 at the end of the first frame. Again Lithuania opened the second period with 6-0 run and Staniulis improved to 27:20. After 20-16 in the quarter Cizauskas scored for 36:32 at the halftime. The third quarter became the most interesting in the game as both teams remained hot in the game. Lithuania was in front for the majority of the period and kept 49:47 at the end. Batur tied it at the beginning of the last stanza, but then Lithuania was too good in the game. A 25-8 in the last quarter to take 74:55 victory. Jonas Valanciunas top-scored for the winners with 16 points and 11 rebounds. Cizauskas collected 15 points and 10 boards, while Kadzevicius notched 10. Prostran delivered 14 points in defeat, Batur posted 11 and Jakolis added 10.

9-12 spots

Germany - Bulgaria 47-55
Bulgaria won the first game of the Classification Round for 9th to 12th Places in U18 European Championship. The team overcame the German side 55:47 to play for the 9th place on Sunday. Emil Binev (198-F-91) led the way with 13 points, while Tsonkov notched 11. Dafinov followed them with 10 points as Bulgaria U18 will hope for the higher place. Neumann collected 16 points and 19 rebounds in defeat. Monninghoff posted 14 and Barthel had 11.

Latvia - Slovenia 93-71
Latvia will play for the 9th place on Sunday in France. The Baltic team overcame Slovenia 93:71 at the Classification Round for 9th to 12th Places. Ugis Pinete (194-F-91) led the way with 22 points and Meiers netted 18. Ansons and Butjankovs followed them with 11 points each. Muric chipped in 18 points and Nikolic Smrdelj scored 12.

Group G

Greece - Israel 80-54
Greek U18 National Team ensured the Division A spot for the next year. They grabbed the third straight win to clinch the top spot in Group G and avoid relegation. Israel slipped at 1-2 record and would wait for the outcome of Ukraine vs. Czech Republic clash to get to know their fate. Andreas Kanonidis (198-F-91) notched 23 points and 10 boards for Greece. Linos-Spyridon Chrysikopoulos added 21 points, while Vasileios Kavvadas had 12 points and 15 boards in the win. Nimrod Tishman replied with 17 points for Israel. Carmel Bouchman netted 9 points and pulled down 13 rebounds in the losing case.

Czech Republic - Ukraine 70-79
Ukraine U18 remains in Division A for the next year after the victory in their last game in France. The team however sent Czech Republic to Division B after 79:70 at the U18 European Championship. V'Yacheslav Bobrov (202-F-92) was unstoppable with 35 points and 10 rebounds for the winners. Lebedintsev nailed 13, while Lypovyy and Sandul added 11 each. Kriz and Bohacik delivered 15 points each in the losing effort.

Stats Leader

Points Per Game

Ryan RICHARDS
  ENG
  (210-F-91)
  Avg: 29

1. Richards, ENG	29.0
2. Laerke, DEN	28.5
3. Eilingsfeld, HUN	23.7
4. Radovic, MNT	20.8
5. Veideman, EST	19.6
6. Dvalishvili, GEO	19.0
7. Czerapowicz, SWE	18.5
8. Fraser, SCO	18.3
9. van Vugt, NED	18.2
10. Noel, E.	17.2

Rebounds Per Game

Ryan RICHARDS
  ENG
  (210-F-91)
  Avg: 13

1. Richards, ENG	13.0
2. Eilingsfeld, HUN	11.8
3. Treffers, NED	10.2
4. Dubljevic, MNT	10.2
5. Krysevich, BLR	9.8
6. Ausepian, BLR	9.8
7. Bergstedt, DEN	9.7
8. Dvalishvili, GEO	9.5
9. Radovic, MNT	8.8
10. Dubas, S.	8.8

Assists Per Game

Stevan LAZOVIC
  MNT
  (183-G-91)
  Avg: 4.8

1. Lazovic, MNT	4.8
2. Tavartkiladz., GEO	4.7
3. Steinarsson, ISL	4.2
4. Petkovic, SUI	3.8
5. Vancura, AUT	3.8
6. Jawara, NOR	3.4
7. Gunjaca, BIH	3.3
8. Gilling, DEN	3.2
9. Deroover, BEL	3.2
10. Lakosa, H.	3.2

Steals Per Game

Tariel TAVARTKILADZE
(193-G-91)
Avg: 2.7

1. Tavartkiladz., GEO	2.7
2. Ihnatchyk, BLR	2.7
3. Persson, SWE	2.5
4. van Vugt, NED	2.5
5. Petkovic, SUI	2.5
6. Veideman, EST	2.4
7. Dorbek, EST	2.4
8. Gilling, DEN	2.2
9. Heinonen, FIN	2.0
10. Grznar, S.	2.0

Blocks Per Game

Alasdair FRASER
(201-C-92)
Avg: 2

1. Fraser, SCO	2.0
2. Goldsbrough, ENG	2.0
3. Buza, BIH	2.0
4. Ausepian, BLR	1.7
5. Dubljevic, MNT	1.7
6. Limberg, EST	1.6
7. Ioseliani, GEO	1.5
8. Ioseliani, GEO	1.5
9. Dvalishvili, GEO	1.5
10. Moravek, S.	1.4

Stats Leaders Div. A

Points Per Game

Pavel ANTIPOV
(204-F-91)
Avg: 21.7

1. Antipov, RUS	21.7
2. Prostran, CRO	20.4
3. Tishman, ISR	18.3
4. Valanciunas, LTU	17.6
5. Neumann, GER	16.4
6. Muric, SLO	16.0
7. Kanonidis, GRE	15.5
8. Musli, SRB	15.0
9. Lypovyy, UKR	14.7
10. Kanter, T.	14.3

Rebounds Per Game

Enes KANTER
(206-C-92)
Avg: 14.9

1. Kanter, TUR	14.9
2. Musli, SRB	10.9
3. Valanciunas, LTU	10.1
4. Neumann, GER	10.1
5. Antipov, RUS	10.0
6. Meiers, LAT	9.3
7. Kriz, CZE	9.0
8. Sandul, UKR	7.8
9. Bouchman, ISR	7.7
10. Mashour, I.	7.5

Assists Per Game

Toni PROSTRAN
(183-G-91)
Avg: 6.4

1. Prostran, CRO	6.4
2. Peciukeviciu., LTU	5.3
3. Angelopoulos, GRE	4.2
4. Franch, ESP	4.0
5. Span, SLO	4.0
6. Westermann, FRA	3.7
7. Ansons, LAT	3.3
8. Lebedintsev, UKR	3.2
9. Cizauskas, LTU	3.1
10. Ciz, C.	3.0

Steals Per Game

Andrea DE NICOLAO
(185-G-91)
Avg: 3.6

1. De Nicolao, ITA	3.6
2. Babic, CRO	3.5
3. Tishman, ISR	2.3
4. Katsivelis, GRE	2.0
5. Franch, ESP	1.9
6. Lebedintsev, UKR	1.8
7. Dotan, ISR	1.8
8. Timor, ISR	1.8
9. Prostran, CRO	1.8
10. Kriz, C.	1.8

Blocks Per Game

Philipp NEUMANN
(210-C-92)
Avg: 3.1

1. Neumann, GER	3.1
2. Musli, SRB	2.3
3. Valanciunas, LTU	2.1
4. Djekic, SRB	2.1
5. Meiers, LAT	1.9
6. Polonara, ITA	1.4
7. Kanter, TUR	1.4
8. Sandul, UKR	1.4
9. Chrysikopoul., GRE	1.3
10. Staniulis, L.	1.3

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FINLAND

1.DIVISION: Lapua will have international colours - by Rauno Hurmalainen
Korikobrat (Lapua) will be very colourful team in division 1 coming 2009-2010 season. Among the first signees there is already a glimpse of that. First time ever (?)
Finnish team has signed with a Georgian NT player. Givi Bakradze (185-G-91) and Lapua have agreed and signed a contract model 2+1 years! Bakradze has been on the rosters of Georgian U 16 and U 18 National Teams. Korikobrat has recently signed also with Finnish youngsters Antti Keski-Koukkari, Juhamatti Turja and Jussi Salo. Serbian Coach Nenad Stefanovic will start his second season as the Head Coach at Lapua. More interesting news and signees at Lapua in the near future.

INTERNATIONAL: Estonia vs Finland 72-90 - by Rauno Hurmalainen
Estonia Men NT vs Finland NT 72-90 (37-52) tonight in Tallinn, Estonia. Finland winning all four quarters: 19-28, 18-24, 18-20, 17-18. Guards Teemu Rannikko (189-G-80) - Petteri Koponen (193-G-88) combined 41 pts for Finland. Rannikko was excellent during the first half (17 pts). Finland had five players in double digits. F Tuukka Kotti (205-F/C-81, college: Providence) 100. time on the NT roster (4pts/3rbs)! Finland: Teemu Rannikko 21 pts/4 assists, Petteri Koponen 20, Shawn Huff (198-G/F-84, college: Valparaiso) 14/9rbs, Hanno Mottola (208-F-76, college: Utah) 14, Gerald Lee Jr (208-F-87)10. Next game: Finland - New Zealand on Sunday, August 2 in Vantaa.

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FRANCE

Joakim Noah leaves French National Team - by Eurobasket News
France National Team keeps encountering difficult situations in the wake of the decisive qualifying games for European Championship in Poland. After Tony Parker (183-G-80) went down with injury which proved not be so serious, anther player was forced to leave the squad. Joakim Noah (211-F/C-85, college: Florida) did not receive the clearance from his team Chicago Bulls to take participation at the upcoming qualifying games. Even though he started preparations and played at the Tournament in Strasbourg, Noah was forced to withdraw form the team even though he is not injured. It is expected that French Basketball will file an appeal with FIBA because of the treatment by the Chicago Bulls regarding Noah. It remains to bee seen how the situation will develop further, but everyone at French National Team are hoping Noah will get the clearance and will be able to help his team qualify for EuroBasket.
Joakim Noah played collegiate basketball at University of Florida. In 2006 he has won National Championship and was voted Tournament MVP. That season he played in 40 games, posting averages of 12.0 points, 8.4 rebounds and 1.8 block per game while shooting 60.5% for two. In 2007 he was drafted by Chicago Bulls as 9th pick in the NBA draft. In his first season with Bulls, Noah appeared in 74 games and averaged 6.6 points and 5.6 rebounds. Still his first season was also marked by on court and off court incidents which led to several games suspension for the player. However, last season Noah improved his game and averaged 7.0 points and 8.0 rebounds while shooting 55.0 % for two in 86 games. Noah is a member of French National team since 2008.

Le Havre signs Joseph Jones, Cholet extends assistant Jim Bilba - by Eurobasket News
Le Havre announced signing of Joseph Jones (206-F/C-86, college: Texas A&M). The 23-year old American big guy played last season in Turkish team Oyak Renault. He appeared 30 times in TBL averaging 13.8 ppg and 6.4 apg. That was the first European season for Jones, who graduated last year at the Texas A&M University. In senior season he had 10.3 ppg and 5.4 rpg. Interesting that as a junior Jones had the best year with Texas A&M. That was on 2005/06 when Jones registered 15.3 ppg and 6.5 rpg. In 2007 his school reached NCAA Sweet 16. Next year Jones was awarded with 'All-Big 12 Honorable Mention'. With this signing Le Havre most probably completed their roster for the upcoming season.

Meanwhile, ex French star Jim Bilba will stay with Cholet five more years. He is currently assistant coach of Erman Kunter. Bilba is former captain of French National Team and he started coaching career five years ago.
Jim Bilba had long and successful playing career. He won many personal awards and helped team like Cholet, ASVEL, AEK Athens, Limoges and of course Team France to reach one of their important successes. Bilba started playing career in Cholet and later spent there his last 5 years as a player.

France became the last Semifinalist of the U18 European Championship - by Eurobasket News
France U18-Russia U18 74:61 (19-20, 24-9, 11-18, 20-14)

France became the last Semifinalist of the U18 European Championship Men 2009 in Metz, France. The hosts of the tournament overcame Russia in the last game of the day 74:61.
Russia upset the hosts from the start and took 20-19 after the opening quarter. Evan Fournier (198-G/F-92) gave France 21:20 and Mael Lebrun (194-F-91) scored for 29:24. Cairo scored inside for a 35:26 lead and, when Stojiljkovic hit consecutive three-pointers before feeding a cutting Cairo for a lay-up, Les Bleus led 43:27. Ivan Lazarev had a dunk in the closing seconds of the second quarter, one in which Russia were outscored 24-9. The latter bounced back with 18-11 in the third period and reduced to 54:47 entering the last frame. Moreover Pavel Shavkunov (185-G-91) made it 54:49, however France did not slow down. The hosts won the last quarter 20-14 and advanced to the top four teams.
Evan Fournier paced all the winners with 20 points for the Semifinal birth. Mael Lebrun netted 10, while Kandolo Okonda Kahudi and Fabien Paschal (206-C/F-91) scored 9 apiece. Dmitry Kulagin (195-G-92) finished the game with 21 points and Pavel Shavkunov had 11.
In the Semifinal France will meet Lithuania U18 that proved the ambitions for the top places and advanced to the Semifinals of the U18 European Championship Men 2009, in Metz, France. The Baltic side won over Croatia 74:55 to remain undefeated.

France U18: Evan Fournier 20, Mael Lebrun 10, Kandolo Okonda Kahudi 9, Fabien Paschal 9
Russia U18: Dmitry Kulagin 21, Pavel Shavkunov 11

Errick Craven joins JDA Dijon, Strasbourg adds Tremmell Darden - by Eurobasket News
After Nick Fazekas (211-F-85, agency: Beo Basket, college: Nevada), JDA Dijon agreed terms on a one-year deal with another American, Errick Craven (188-G-83, college: USC). The 26-year old guard spent last season in Pro B with Stade Clermontois Basket Auvergne. He ended the competition as the leading scorer with 19.7 ppg. At the same time, Craven also dished out 4.7 apg and was fifth in the league. There is another achievement for him last season and that is the award for best 'stealer' with 3.1 spg.
Season 2007/08 Errick Craven spent with Los Angeles D-Fenders in NBA D-League and later in Venezuela. He already played in Pro B and that was on season 2006/07. As a member of Saint-Quentin he averaged 16.2 ppg, 5.3 rpg, 2.8 spg and 3.5 rpg. His first season overseas was in Turkey as a player of Beykozspor. Errick Craven graduated at the USC in 2005.

After Alain Digbeu (195-F-75), Strasbourg announced signing of Tremmell Darden (194-G/F-81, college: Niagara). The American guard is coming from Australain team Melbourne South Dragons. For 38 NBL games last season he averaged 11.6 ppg and 4.9 rpg. Before that he played two years for Belgian Charlerou. Season 2004/05 Darden played in Turkey for Erdemir. He came out from Niagara University in 2004.

France pip Hungary in Paris - by Eurobasket News
France - Hungary 70:69
France narrowly defeated Hungary in the exhibition encounter in Paris. Nando De Colo (202-G-87) scored a late basket to propel Les Bleus to a hard-fought win at the end. He finished with 18 points and 6 boards to lead the charge for the hosts.
France got to the better start to the game. They grabbed a 19:14 lead ten minutes into the contest. But Hungary responded with a 10:1 run at the start of the second period to surge in front. Hungary secured a 4-point lead at halftime. France struggled to deny the deficit in the third term. Istvan Nemeth (190-G-79, agency: Laszlo Vinko Services) and Peter Lorant (207-F/C-85) paced the visitors as they arrived at three-quarter time ahead by 5. It all came down to the final seconds in this one. France got within one late in the game setting up the scene for Nando De Colo. The guard did not waste his chance winning the game for France.
Florent Pietrus (202-F-81, agency: Octagon) knocked down 10 points and collected 6 boards. Boris Diaw (203-F/C-82) and Nicolas Batum (201-F-88) added 9 points apiece for the winners. Istvan Nemeth responded with 18 points for Hungary. Peter Lorant had 17 points and 8 rebounds in defeat.

France: Nando De Colo 18, Florent Pietrus 10, Boris Diaw 9, Nicolas Batum 9
Hungary: Istvan Nemeth 18, Peter Lorant 17

JSA Bordeaux adds Nicchaeus Doaks - by Laurent Maugein
Having authorized to play in Pro B the next season, JSA Bordeaux Basket found his first player. It is a forward, Nicchaeus Doaks (201-F-87, agency: Hart Sports Mngm).
Nicchaeus goes out of Chattanooga in NCAA where he made the entirety of his cursus.
This young forward is the first player in ended its career with 1400 points and 800 rebounds.
With 13.7 pts and 8.6 rbds in 2008/2009, he is the second scorer of its team.
Bordeaux also searches an American in the post of center

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FYR MACEDONIA

Slobodan Mitev signs with Lokomotiv Krasnodar as Assistant Coach - by Eurobasket News
Former Head Coach of MZT Skopje, Slobodan Mitev is set to swap Macedonian League for Russian. He was recently offered a chance to become Assistant Coach at Lokomotiv Krasnodar. As it was reported by various Macedonian media, Mitev has accepted the offer and will be working along with Saso Filipovski who is Head Coach of Lokomotiv. Other than Assistant Coach duties, Mitev is expected to also work as the scout for the team. Mitev recently went on to state that he has decided to accept offer from Russia because of uncertainty which is surrounding MZT Skopje. Last season, Mitev led MZT to playoff Semifinals where they were eliminated by Feni Indusrti. After the conclusion of the season, trouble started for MZT regarding financial distress and several other operational issues. Mitev was hoping that the situation will be resolved and that he will continue to improve on the results achieved. As the time passed by and no solution was close, Mitev decided it is time to move on.
Slobodan Mitev started his coaching career as Assistant Coach at MZT Skopje in 1997. He also worked as an Assitant at Rabotnicki Fersped during 2000-2001 season. In 2004 he moved to Poland where he worked as Assistant, first at Anwil and than at Turow. In Poland, his teams were regular participants of Playoff semifinals and they also performed well in Europe. Last season, Mitev got his first job as Head Coach of MZT Skopje. He has led them to Playoff Semifinals in his first year on the job.

Vladimir Popovic returns to Feni Industri - by Eurobasket News
Serbian player Vladimir Popovic (190-G-82) is set to return to Feni Industri and to sign one-year contract. Popovic spent last season at Swisslion Takovo where he arrived from Feni. Now he is set to return to the team he is familiar with and where he played with success two seasons ago. President of Feni Industri, Abed Amir has recently stated that he is delighted to be able to bring back Popovic. He believes that the player will have no problems adjusting since he is already familiar with the surroundings. Popovic is the second signing for team from Kavadarci, which has previously agreed with Dusan Knezevic (207-C-80, agency: BeoExcell). Feni will be looking to win back the title they lost to Fersped Rabotnicki last season and are hoping to form a squad which will be up for this challenge.
Vladimir Popovic started at BC Partizan junior team but moved to Pivovarna Lasko where he signed his first professional contract in 2001. After two seasons in Slovenia, Popovic returned to Serbia where he signed with Sloga Kraljevo. At Sloga, he averaged 4.1 points in 10 games. Popovic also played for the likes of Spartak Sinalco Subotica and Ergonom Nis, before signing with Feni Industri in 2007. With Feni, Popovic has won National Cup and National League. Good games recommended him to Swisslion Takovo Vrsac where he played last season. In 31 League games, Popovic averaged 5.6 points and 2.3 rebounds.

Dime Tasovski signs with the team from Lviv - by Eurobasket News
Macedonian star Dime Tasovski (201-F-80) heads to Ukraine and will play for Politehnika-Galychyna. The player was a real hero for his previous Fersped Rabotnicki.
Dime Tasovski started his career with Zito Vardar Veles. In 2003 he spent a single season at Vardar Skopje before moving to Rabotnicki in 2004. With Rabotnicki has won 4 title and 2 national cups. This season, Tasovksi played in 12 BIBL games averaging 14.7 points and 3.6 rebounds. His Fersped Rabotnicki made it in Game 6 of the Big Macedonian Finals. Rabotnicki managed to crush the defending champion again (this time in Skopje) and to finish the Finals with 4-2. Dime Tasovski was hero of the night. He was totally unstoppable finishing the game with impressive 37 points and 6 rebounds. Dime Tasovski played 35 minutes shooting 10/12 for FG2, 3/7 for 3-pts and 8/14 from the line.
He has an experience in FIBA Europe Cup, Balkan League and the National team. The Macedonian player should be a great addition to the roster of the team from Lviv. The team is ready for the next season however might sign another foreigner soon.

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GERMANY

Bulgaria U18 won the first game of the Classification Round for 9th to 12th Places - by Eurobasket News
Germany U18-Bulgaria U18 47:55

Bulgaria won the first game of the Classification Round for 9th to 12th Places in U18 European Championship. The team overcame the German side 55:47 to play for the 9th place on Sunday.
Bulgaria scored the first points of the game and then Germany looked better in the court. The latter however could not score in the last 4 minutes of the period although they won it 12:10. Stanislav Tsonkov (191-G-91) tied the game at 12:12 and Bulgaria did not allow Germany to score in the first 8 minutes of the second period as well. After more than 10 minutes silence Danilo Barthel (205-F-91) gave Germany 13:19, while Ivanov posted for Bulgaria as they had 23:17 at the halftime. In the third period Germany bettered their position in scoring however could not reach the opponents. Mathis Monninghoff (198-G-92) made a three to close the third period at 43:33. In the last stanza the teams played even game, but Bulgaria saved their lead. Stanislav Tsonkov made it 49:41 and Planimir Dafinov (181-G-92) posted for 54:47. He made also the final score at 55:47 for the winners from the free throw line.
Emil Binev (198-F-91) led the way with 13 points, while Stanislav Tsonkov notched 11. Planimir Dafinov followed them with 10 points as Bulgaria U18 will hope for the higher place. Philipp Neumann (210-C-92) collected 16 points and 19 rebounds in defeat. Mathis Monninghoff posted 14 and Danilo Barthel had 11.

Germany U18: Philipp Neumann 16+19 rebs, Mathis Monninghoff 14, Danilo Barthel 11
Bulgaria U18: Emil Binev 13, Stanislav Tsonkov 11, Planimir Dafinov 10

Ratiopharm Ulm Welcome John Bryant - by Miles Schmidt-Scheuber
Ratiopharm Ulm got active again on the BBL transfer market signing John Bryant (201-F-82, college: St.Joseph's) to a contract. The 26 year old 201cm forward last played for the Vermont Frost Heaves in the PBL league and averaged in 15 games: 5.9ppg, 8.3rpg, 2.9bpg, 2FGP: 47.8%, FT: 48.9%. He is a powerful player, who provides a strong defensive presence inside and has great leadership and work ethic. He may only be 26 years old, but Ratiopharm Ulm see him as being a role model just like he was in college.

Bryant grew up in Woodbridge, Virginia and went to St Joesph's from 2001-2005. He didn't play a big role with scoring in the team as he only averaged 2,4ppg in his four year career, but he was simply the heart and soul of the team the same way Florian Hartenstein was for the Giessen 46ers. Bryant played for a team that had future NBA stars in the making with Jahmeer Nelson and Delonte West and the team reached the NCAA Elite 8 in 2004. He was also a member of the St Josepth's Atlantic 10 East division champions in 2003 and 2004 and was an NIT finialist in 2005. He then turned pro and has been very successful as a player winning titles in the UK and States. In his rookie season 2005-2006, he played for the Newcastle Eagles and averaged in 29 games: 3.0ppg, 2.3rpg winning the British league title and cup in 2006. In 2006, he moved to the states and found a home in the green mountain state of Vermont playing in the ABA league for the Vermont Frost Heaves and averaged 4.9 ppg, 6.6 rpg in his first season. In his three years, he won two titles and was named to the USBasket.com All-PBL Defensive Team -09. He also had his best year ever statistically in 2009 in the ABA for the Vermont Frost Heaves averaging in 15 games: 5.9ppg, 8.3rpg,2.9bpg, second best in the PBL 2FGP: 47.8%, FT: 48.9%.

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

TV Werne signs two US Players - by Daniel Poerschke
TV Werne BB of the 2. Regionalliga West announced the signing of their two import players of the upcoming season: Playmaker Tramaine Aaron (183-G-85, college: Berry) returns to Werne after a successful rookie year at the Point Guard position last season. Aaron averaged 17.6ppg and 3.0apg.
The second newcomer will be Power Forward Doug Hammond (198-F/C-83, agency: Scorers 1st Sportmanagement, college: S.Vermont). He played last season for 1. Regionalliga North Club SSV Lokomotive Bernau and was a dominat force under the basket. Hammond averaged 14.7ppg, 12.5pg and 3.3bpg last season for SSV Lokomotive Bernau. He was even more effectiv in college, when he averaged 23.4ppg, 14.7rpg and 4.5bpg as a senior for Green Mountain College (NCAA 3) in 2007-08. 'I am very happy to welcome the two guys on board. We kept Tramaine, because he played very well last year running our team and also givs us some points from the point guard spot. I really like Doug's athletic abilities and he will help us a lot under the basket with rebounding and low post scoring', says Head Coach Ivan Rosic .

Q&A with Tomas Nagys - by Moritz Korff
He played 'only' close to 20 minutes per contest for EnBW Ludwigsburg in this past BBL season, but was one of the team's statistical leaders anyway. Tomas Nagys (208-F-80, agency: Edge Sports, college: Clemson) averaged 9.4 points and 4.6 rebounds over 23 appearances on the Ludwigsburg team, being almost the only European element on a team which was dominated by American players. The 29-year-old Lithuanian scored a season-high 18 points against Frankfurt in March and pulled down a personal best nine boards versus Bremerhaven in December.
Eurobasket Germany asked Nagys about his past, present and future.

Before you came to Germany you played in several other European countries, including Poland, Russia, Spain, Greece, Italy and Latvia. How good is German Bundesliga compared to the best leagues in Europe in terms of level of competition and organization?
I was very impressed with German Bundesliga. In terms of level of competition German basketball is not too far away from top leagues in Europe such as Spain, Greece, Russia and etc. German Bundesliga is very competitive and unpredictable. Any team on any given night can win. Bundesliga is quite well organized. Majority of the clubs, with an exception of couple teams, provides stability to the players and coaches.

EnBW Ludwigsburg failed to qualify for the playoffs in this past season. What went wrong?
Honestly it's hard to say what went wrong. Now second questing 'WHAT IF' or blaming someone would not be fair. We just came up short a few games that made the difference in the standings of the table of Bundesliga.

Ludwigsburg's Headcoach Rick Stafford was sacked during the season. If you look back at the time after he was gone: Do you think parting ways with Coach Stafford helped the team?
Well if you look back and analize this situation Ludwigsburg Basketball club vs Rick Stafford, you will realize that coach Stafford and club parted ways one game before the season was over. Therefore in this matter it did not make any difference. It did not hep nor it did hurt the team in any kind of way.
In my opinion such a professional club/organization like Ludwigsburg Basketball should have handled this situation with coach Rick Stafford differently. Coach Rick Stafford is one of the most hard working, dedicated and loyal coaches that I have seen through out my carreer aswell as an outstanding human being on the basketball court.

How do you feel about your personal performance in Ludwigsburg?
I dont like to talk much about myself especially positive. Therefore my former basketball coaches would be able to answer this question for you better than me. But to summarize it for you shortly I could tell you that I had a productive/efficient performance that can always be improved in the future.

You played four years of NCAA basketball. Would you recommend young players from Europe to try to go overseas or do they have better chances to develop their skills in European basketball?
In both cases you will have advantages and disadvantages. From my personal experience I can tell you that I had a great experience while playing NCAA basketball for 4 years. Not that I only managed to play on a high level of competition while being young and improve my basketball skills, but more importantly I managed to get a diploma from Clemson University (International Business/Sports Marketing) and also explored a different culture and meet some outstanding people while being in US.

Will you return to Germany for a second season or have you already made other plans for the 2009-2010 season?
As of right now I am FREE AGENT and not sure what is going to happen for this upcoming season. I guess we will have to wait and see which part of the World I will be traveling soon.

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GREECE

Greece maintain Division A spot - by Eurobasket News
Greece U18 - Israel U18 80:54

Greek U18 National Team ensured the Division A spot for the next year. They grabbed the third straight win to clinch the top spot in Group G and avoid relegation. Israel slipped at 1-2 record and would wait for the outcome of Ukraine vs. Czech Republic clash to get to know their fate.
Greece went on a 9:0 run in the starting frame to clear off. They drove to an 18:9 advantage at the first break. Linos-Spyridon Chrysikopoulos (205-F-92) opened the second quarter with a three-pointer to give Greece a 12-point lead. Andreas Kanonidis (198-F-91) dropped 8 points in the frame as the Hellenes secured a 20-point lead at halftime. Israel revived the intrigue at the start of the third period. They unloaded 8 points in a row to get within 12. Greece maintained the margin to enter the fourth quarter ahead by 14 points. Karathanasis, Andreas Kanonidis and Papapetrou dropped three treys in a row midway through the fourth term to silence Israel as the Greek side rolled to the win.
Andreas Kanonidis notched 23 points and 10 boards for Greece. Linos-Spyridon Chrysikopoulos added 21 points, while Vasileios Kavvadas (203-F-91, agency: FCM) had 12 points and 15 boards in the win. Nimrod Tishman (195-G-91) replied with 17 points for Israel. Carmel Bouchman (205-F-91) netted 9 points and pulled down 13 rebounds in the losing case.

Greece U18: Andreas Kanonidis 23+10 boards, Linos-Spyridon Chrysikopoulos 21, Vasileios Kavvadas 12
Israel U18: Nimrod Tishman 17, Carmel Bouchman 9+13 boards

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HUNGARY

Hungary was close to the surprise in Paris - by Patonay Adam
The national team of Hungary played the last friendly game before the relegation round in Paris against France. Tony Parker missed the game because of smaller injury, but Turiaf, Diaw and Florent Pietrus was on the court, like Istvan Nemeth (190-G-79, agency: Laszlo Vinko Services) and Peter Lorant (207-F/C-85). The teams played a very good game with close endgame. Hungary had the chance to the surprise but missed the endgame and shoot only 15 free throws while France 33... The guard and leader of the team, Istvan Nemeth showed again his quality and scored 18 points with 4 threes and made excellent passes to his teammates. The center of Burgos Peter Lorant scored 17 points with 8 rebounds, while DeColo was the best shooter in the french team with 18 points.

France - Hungary 70:69
(19:14, 11:20, 19:20, 21:15)
France: Turiaf 8, Diaw 9, Florent Pietrus 10, Batum 9, Gomis 2. Koffi 1, Diarra -, Bocolo 3, De Colo 18/3, Ajinca -, Petro 4, Traore 6.
Hungary: Nemeth 18/12, Lorant 17/3, Marton Fodor 7, Horvath Z. 6, Kaman 9/9. Horvath A. -, Kortvelyesi 8/6, Vojvoda -, Hanga 2, Bdi -, Trepak 2.

France pip Hungary in Paris - by Eurobasket News
France - Hungary 70:69
France narrowly defeated Hungary in the exhibition encounter in Paris. Nando De Colo (202-G-87) scored a late basket to propel Les Bleus to a hard-fought win at the end. He finished with 18 points and 6 boards to lead the charge for the hosts.
France got to the better start to the game. They grabbed a 19:14 lead ten minutes into the contest. But Hungary responded with a 10:1 run at the start of the second period to surge in front. Hungary secured a 4-point lead at halftime. France struggled to deny the deficit in the third term. Istvan Nemeth (190-G-79, agency: Laszlo Vinko Services) and Peter Lorant (207-F/C-85) paced the visitors as they arrived at three-quarter time ahead by 5. It all came down to the final seconds in this one. France got within one late in the game setting up the scene for Nando De Colo. The guard did not waste his chance winning the game for France.
Florent Pietrus (202-F-81, agency: Octagon) knocked down 10 points and collected 6 boards. Boris Diaw (203-F/C-82) and Nicolas Batum (201-F-88) added 9 points apiece for the winners. Istvan Nemeth responded with 18 points for Hungary. Peter Lorant had 17 points and 8 rebounds in defeat.

France: Nando De Colo 18, Florent Pietrus 10, Boris Diaw 9, Nicolas Batum 9
Hungary: Istvan Nemeth 18, Peter Lorant 17

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ISRAEL

ITALY

LATVIA

Pinete leads the Baltic side over Slovenian juniors - by Eurobasket News
Latvia U18-Slovenia U18 93:71

Latvia will play for the 9th place on Sunday in France. The Baltic team overcame Slovenia 93:71 at the Classification Round for 9th to 12th Places.
Latvia started with 16-0 run and easily kept the lead after. Ernijs Ansons (191-G/F-91) made a dunk at the end of the period for 28:13. Latvia also scored 28 points in the second frame and allowed the opponents to post 17. Ugis Pinete (194-F-91) sent the teams to the lockers with 56:30 halftime advantage. Nikolic Smrdelj opened the third period, while opened the scoring account for the Baltic representatives. Slovenia won however the third period 19-12 to cut it to 68:49. Ernijs Ansons and Martins Meiers (206-C-91) scored from the free throw line for 75:51. Slovenia created a 9-0 run for 77:63, but Martins Meiers made it 90:70. The latter also made the final shot in the game for the total victory.
Ugis Pinete led the way with 22 points and Martins Meiers netted 18. Ernijs Ansons and Artjoms Butjankovs (201-C-91) followed them with 11 points each. Edo Muric (202-F-91) chipped in 18 points and Nikolic Smrdelj scored 12.
In another game Bulgaria won the first game of the Classification Round for 9th to 12th Places in U18 European Championship. The team overcame the German side 55:47 to play for the 9th place on Sunday.

Latvia U18: Ugis Pinete 22, Martins Meiers 18, Ernijs Ansons 11, Artjoms Butjankovs 11
Slovenia U18: Edo Muric 18, Nikolic Smrdelj 12

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LITHUANIA

Zalgiris sharpens the roster for 2009-10 - by Simas Baranauskas
This has now become a usual development in Kaunas - Zalgiris sits out the first month of free agent market and only then they turn it up a gear or two and cross the finishing line of the summer period in full speed. This year is no different as the club is announcing one signing after the other, it has to be said that this strategy has not always worked but the potential of this team is better than the one of last year.

Dainius Salenga (197-F-77) was the first name on the extended player list, as he agreed to stay in Kaunas for another year. The experienced and time-checked forward from a small city of Varena was one of the key players for Zalgiris. And even though the club had a terrifying near-death experience throughout the season seeing all the domestic titles being taken by the main rival from Vilnius and missing the train to the Top 16 after a photo finish together with Asseco Prokom and SLUC Nancy. All the troubles were caused by the mismanagement of the club and huge debts to players - the new investor Vladmir Romanov has introduced some order into the club and Zalgiris has made up for the wrongs they did in the recent past, at least most of them as some players are still battle in the court for the unpaid salaries. There were talks that Zalgiris could strike the European market with a couple of big names - if Marcus Brown (193-G-74, agency: Higher Vision Sports, college: Murray St.) isn't one, who is? The Euroleague all-time top scorer is coming back and will wear a green and white jersey next season as well after being set on loan to Maccabi in the middle of last years campaign. This shows just how much the situation in Zalgiris has got better - the reason Brown asked to be loaned is the financial troubles and now he's coming back to the team that wasn't paying his hard earned money even though he was allowed to search for a better offer elsewhere. The American is expected to bring his much needed experience to Kaunas as the greens are planning to be a young team this season. And the team goes with what it says - two talented players were announced to be signing contracts in the near future. Martynas Pocius (196-G-86) and Tadas Klimavicius (204-F-82, agency: Interperformances) to be exact. Pocius finished his fourth year of collegiate basketball in Duke, while Klimavicius will extend the contract with Zalgiris after averaging above average numbers in Kaunas last season. The strenght of the team will be very much determined by what the ruling bodies of basketball and sports decide on Mantas Kalnietis (195-G-86, agency: Interperformances) double contract with both Zalgiris and Benetton Treviso. The whole thing seems to be going north rather than south as the first ruling was in advantage of Zalgiris, but Benetton has decided to appeal. If probably the most promising Lithuanian point guard stays in Kaunas, as it's most likely, Zalgiris will be a force to be reckoned with. If not - a grimly silence in Kaunas might be sensed as a gloomy shadow falls on Kaunas...

Lithuania U18 proved the ambitions - by Eurobasket News
Lithuania U18-Croatia U18 74:55 (16-16, 20-16, 13-15, 25-8)

Lithuania U18 proved the ambitions for the top places and advanced to the Semifinals of the U18 European Championship Men 2009, in Metz, France. The Baltic side won over Croatia 74:55 to remain undefeated.
The favorites started with 5-0 run and Jonas Valanciunas (211-C-92) netted for 9:2. Toni Prostran (183-G-91) reduced for 9:8, while Bubalo made it 12:11. Staniulis tied the game at 16:16 at the end of the first frame. Again Lithuania opened the second period with 6-0 run and Staniulis improved to 27:20. After 20-16 in the quarter Vytenis Cizauskas (189-G-92) scored for 36:32 at the halftime. The third quarter became the most interesting in the game as both teams remained hot in the game. Lithuania was in front for the majority of the period and kept 49:47 at the end. Ivan Batur (202-F-91) tied it at the beginning of the last stanza, but then Lithuania was too good in the game. A 25-8 in the last quarter to take 74:55 victory.
Jonas Valanciunas top-scored for the winners with 16 points and 11 rebounds. Vytenis Cizauskas collected 15 points and 10 boards, while Mantas Kadzevicius (193-G-91) notched 10. Toni Prostran delivered 14 points in defeat, Ivan Batur posted 11 and Dino Jakolis (198-G-91) added 10.
In the Semifinal Lithuania will play agaist the hosts, France.

Lithuania U18: Jonas Valanciunas 16+11 rebs, Vytenis Cizauskas 15+10 rebs, Mantas Kadzevicius 10
Croatia U18: Toni Prostran 14, Ivan Batur 11, Dino Jakolis 10

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NBA

Lamar Odom spurns Miami Heat, will re-sign with Lakers - by Eurobasket News
So much for the tantalizing possibility of a Miami Heat reunion with Lamar Odom (6'10''-F-79, college: Rhode Island).

The versatile 6-10 forward spurned the Heat on Thursday, deciding instead to re-sign with the Los Angeles Lakers, according to multiple reports. The Lakers did not confirm the signing, and the Heat did not have an immediate comment.

The deal is worth $33 million over four years if the Lakers exercise the fourth-year option, according to ESPN. The Heat had offered the most it could using its full mid-level exception, a deal worth $34 million over five years, with an opt-out clause after three seasons.

With Odom out of the picture, the Heat will now turn its attention to other potential targets. Team president Pat Riley has scheduled a meeting this weekend with free agent point guard Jamaal Tinsley, according to his agent, Raymond Brothers.

Though the bid for Odom began as a long shot, the Heat's hopes rose last week after the Lakers withdrew a four-year, $36 million offer.

Riley and Dwyane Wade made a pitch to Odom in Los Angeles on Monday, and Wade publicly implored Odom to rejoin the Heat, where he played the 2003-04 season before he was dealt to the Lakers in the Shaquille O'Neal trade.

But the Lakers resumed talks with Odom in the past week, and he ultimately decided to re-sign with the defending NBA champions.

The Heat had hoped to use Odom as its starting small forward. Without him, Michael Beasley is expected to play significant time at the position, with James Jones, Dorell Wright and Yakhouba Diawara also available.

Already slightly above the $69.9 million luxury tax threshold, the Heat had planned to use most or all of its $5.9 million mid-level exception only if it could acquire an impact rotation player such as Odom.

Odom was the best of the available unsigned players, and it's questionable if any remaining free agent will be enticing enough for the Heat to dip into that exception.

The Heat made contact with another prominent free agent guard, Allen Iverson, several weeks ago, but has concerns about whether he would accept a bench role.

The Heat also might pursue a trade for Utah power forward Carlos Boozer, who is expected to be dealt and has openly lobbied for trade to Miami. Udonis Haslem and Wright or Jones could be used as chips in a bid for Boozer.

Courtesy of www.miamiherald.com

Bulls waive Linton Johnson and DeMarcus Nelson - by Eurobasket News
The Chicago Bulls have waived forward Linton Johnson (6'8''-F-80, agency: Priority Sports, college: Tulane) and guard DeMarcus Nelson (6'4''-G-85, agency: ZAG Advocates, college: Duke).

In his second stint with the Bulls, Johnson played in eight games and averaged 1.1 points and 1.0 rebounds. He was signed to two 10-day contracts in March before getting a deal for the remainder of the season on April 7. He is set to look for another club now.

A former Duke star, Nelson was the Golden State Warriors' starting point guard on opening night, but he quickly fell out of favor with coach Don Nelson. He played just 13 games before being waived. He signed with the Bulls on April 4 but didn't play for them.

Pacers sign free agent Solomon Jones - by Eurobasket News
Solomon Jones (6'10''-F/C-84, college: S.Florida) feels hes another addition who can help the Indiana Pacers improve their defense.

The 6-10 forward signed his contract with the Pacers today.

The coaches talk about defense, and I think thats what I help bring to this team, trying to protect the basket, Jones said this afternoon after signing his two-year contract.

He averaged 3.0 points and 2.3 rebounds this past season while playing 11 minutes a game for the Atlanta Hawks, who reached the second round of the playoffs.

He definitely can help hold down our interior defense. Also we believe he can be part of what were trying to do here, Pacers president Larry Bird said in a statement.

Jones played at South Florida and was drafted by the Hawks in the second round in 2006.

Courtesy of www.indystar.com

Toronto Raptors sign Rasho Nesterovic - by Eurobasket News
The Toronto Raptors announced Thursday they have signed free-agent centre Radoslav Nesterovic (7'0''-C-76) (for those of you who like to talk, its pronounced RAH-show Neh-STARE-oh-vitch). Per team policy, financial details were not disclosed. Well post contract info later today.

Rasho brings us back a great veteran presence who has a familiarity with our coaching staff and several players. His leadership and personality will be great assets for this team, said Bryan Colangelo, Raptors President and General Manager.

Nesterovic, 7-foot, 255 pounds, rejoins the Raptors following one campaign in Indiana with the Pacers. The 11-year NBA veteran played two seasons with Toronto (2006-08) averaging 6.9 points, 4.6 rebounds and 20.9 minutes in 151 games. He appeared in 10 postseason contests with the Raptors averaging 4.0 points, 3.6 rebounds and 14.8 minutes. He was originally acquired from San Antonio on June 21, 2006.

Nesterovic was a first-round selection (17th overall) by the Minnesota Timberwolves in 1998. He signed with San Antonio as a free agent in the 2003 offseason. He has posted career averages of 7.0 points, 5.3 rebounds, 1.1 blocks and 22.8 minutes in 769 career games, 587 of them as a starter. In 64 postseason contests, he has averaged 4.0 points, 3.6 rebounds and 17.2 minutes. He was a member of the Spurs 2005 NBA Championship team.

Nesterovic joined the Timberwolves on May 4, 1999 after he had finished his season with Virtus Kinder Bologna of the Italian League. He averaged 13.5 points, shooting .653 from the field, 6.2 rebounds and 1.42 blocks for Kinder Bologna.

Courtesy of www.insidehoops.com

Mavs sign big man Drew Gooden - by Eurobasket
The Dallas Mavericks signed Drew Gooden (6'10''-F-81, agency: Arik Krayn Services, college: Kansas) and expect him to back up Dirk Nowitzki (6'11''-F-78) at power forward and play alongside him at center.
The deal, agreed to late last week, was announced Thursday.
Gooden is joining his seventh team, having also played for Memphis, Orlando, Cleveland, Chicago, Sacramento and San Antonio. Over his career, he averages 12.0 points and 7.9 rebounds per game.
'We are very pleased to add Drew to our front line for the upcoming season,' team president Donnie Nelson said. 'Drew is a veteran player with NBA finals experience that is entering the prime of his career at 27 years old. He will provide valuable minutes at both the center and power forward positions with his tenacity in the paint, rebounding and ability to knock down shots.'
The Mavericks this week also added the versatile Tim Thomas (6'10''-F-77, college: Villanova) to their frontcourt rotation.
Thomas and Gooden should help make up for the loss of free agent Brandon Bass (6'8''-F-85, agency: Octagon, college: LSU) to the Orlando Magic and the missed chance on center Marcin Gortat (7'0''-C-84), who was signed to an offer sheet that was matched by the Magic.
The Mavericks also traded for Shawn Marion (6'7''-F-78, college: UNLV) and re-signed Jason Kidd (6'4''-G-73, college: California) during the offseason
Source: AP

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NCAA1

Wooden recognized as greatest coach in sports history - by Eurobasket News
John Wooden's friends, family and former players all say they didn't need an award from a national magazine to confirm the identity of the greatest coach in American sports history.

Yet the Sporting News made it official Wednesday, recognizing the 98-year-old Wooden as the pinnacle of a profession that was redefined by the UCLA coach over his unmatched career in Westwood.

During a luncheon in the John Wooden Room at one of his favorite restaurants in Sherman Oaks, the coach saw the real reward for a life spent teaching, mentoring and improving lives: A room packed to overflowing with the recipients of those lessons, from his daughter, Nan, to current UCLA coach Ben Howland, to former Bruins center Kareem Abdul-Jabbar.

'I thank you all for the very kind words,' Wooden said in a voice altered but not slowed by age. 'No one can really honestly be the very best, no one ... [but] these youngsters that have spoken -- and some of them aren't so young anymore -- they're the ones that make the coaches.'

Former Green Bay Packers coach Vince Lombardi was second behind Wooden, who received 57 first-place votes from a panel of 118 sports experts assembled by Sporting News. Alabama football coach Bear Bryant was third, with the NBA's Phil Jackson and football's Don Shula fifth.

Wooden arrived at the luncheon in a wheelchair after a series of minor health setbacks in recent years, but the coach still has an appetite both for conversation and a hearty lunch. He sat at a table with Howland, UCLA athletic director Dan Guerrero and former players Abdul-Jabbar, Marques Johnson and Andy Hill, while several other players gathered next to him.

'You get older, your memory gets a little bad, but a lot of other things get worse,' Wooden said during a short lapse in his train of thought.

Wooden won 10 national championships at UCLA, winning more than 80 percent of his games over 27 seasons. The Indiana native has been in the Basketball Hall of Fame since 1961, and has kept busy as a speaker and teacher since his retirement from UCLA in 1975.

'It was really very easy, I think, for the people on the panel to vote for this award,' said Howland, who has reached three Final Fours in his first six seasons at UCLA. 'He was the greatest teacher ever. His integrity, the way he lives his life, is a model for all of us.'

Former players Jamaal Wilkes, Ken Heitz, Mike Warren, Lucius Allen and Gary Cunningham, who later became Wooden's assistant, also attended the luncheon. The tall guests frequently left the low chandeliers in the John Wooden Room swaying from accidental contact.

Johnson shared memories of an encounter with Wooden during his freshman year at UCLA, when the coach spotted Johnson shooting pool. Wooden walked up to the table, grabbed the cue and sank eight straight shots, all with a toothpick dangling from his lip.

Johnson and Abdul-Jabbar both pointed out Wooden's influence in their day-to-day habits as well as their overall views of life.

'He has an impact on us, even if we don't want him to,' Johnson said, producing a handful of Wooden's favorite white index cards from his jacket pocket. They were inscribed with notes for Johnson's job coaching his 10-year-old's summer league basketball team.

'The enduring thing is that sense of family,' Johnson added. 'The example that he gave us in that area is one thing that's outlasted all the basketball and all the accolades and everything else.'

Wooden's daughter, granddaughter and several of his 13 great-grandchildren also attended the luncheon.

'The most important thing in the world is family and love,' Wooden said. 'Love is the most important thing in the world. Hate, we should remove from the dictionary. ... They say you never use love in your Pyramid [of Success]. I just say I never thought of it.'

Courtesy of www.cbssports.com

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NEW ZEALAND

Alex Pledger lifts New Zealand over Belgium - by Eurobasket News
Belgium - New Zealand 81:83

New Zealand narrowly defeated Belgium in the second friendly encounter between the teams. The sides clashed in Antwerp yesterday and New Zealand were able to avenge of the previous loss. Alex Pledger (216-C-87, college: Belm.Abbey) scored a bucket with less than a second remaining in regulation to eke out a tough win for the Kiwis.
Belgium looked the better side in the first half. They pushed hard to earn a 22:11 lead at the first break. The teams traded baskets in the second stanza as the hosts managed to secure an 11-point lead at halftime. Kirk Penney (194-G-80, college: Wisconsin) was held to just one point in the first half. But the Tall Blacks finally got things rolling after the major break. Kirk Penney was back to his usual form. He unloaded 21 points in the second half to drag New Zealand back into contest. Mika Vukona (197-F-82) came up with 10 points in the fourth stanza as New Zealand gained a 73:72 lead with late in regulation. The home team regained the advantage at 81:80 but Lindsay Tait tied the score at 81 with less than a minute left. Then it was time for Alex Pledger heroics as he sealed the winning outcome for the visitors.
Kirk Penney nailed 22 points to pace New Zealand. Mika Vukona added 16 points and 10 rebounds, while Leon Henry (200-F/G-85, college: S.Idaho JC) had 13 points for the winners. Sam Van Rossom (188-G-86) had 16 points for Belgium. Didier Mbenga (214-C-80) added 15 points in defeat.

Belgium: Sam Van Rossom 16, Didier Mbenga 15
New Zealand: Kirk Penney 22, Mika Vukona 16+10 boards, Leon Henry 13

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POLAND

Pluta extended, Jovanovic inked - by Michal Falkowski
Anwil Wloclawek made two important decisions, extending the contract with Andrzej Pluta (182-G-74) and signing a deal with Nikola Jovanovic (204-C-81).
Pluta is 36-year-old shooting guard who has played for Anwil team since 2006. It means that the 2009/2010 season will be his fourth in a row while wearing Anwil jersey. Last time Pluta averaged 13,5 ppg. and 1,2 apg. Morevoer, the player has won a league championship with Anwil in the 2002/2003 season.
Second acquisition is 28-year-old Serbian power forward, Jovanovic, who played last season in Atlas Stal Ostrow Wielkopolski. He was a key player scoring 15,5 ppg. and grabbing 5,7 rpg. In Anwil he will replace Marko Brkic, who chose one of the clubs from his homecountry.

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RUSSIA

France became the last Semifinalist of the U18 European Championship - by Eurobasket News
France U18-Russia U18 74:61 (19-20, 24-9, 11-18, 20-14)

France became the last Semifinalist of the U18 European Championship Men 2009 in Metz, France. The hosts of the tournament overcame Russia in the last game of the day 74:61.
Russia upset the hosts from the start and took 20-19 after the opening quarter. Evan Fournier (198-G/F-92) gave France 21:20 and Mael Lebrun (194-F-91) scored for 29:24. Cairo scored inside for a 35:26 lead and, when Stojiljkovic hit consecutive three-pointers before feeding a cutting Cairo for a lay-up, Les Bleus led 43:27. Ivan Lazarev had a dunk in the closing seconds of the second quarter, one in which Russia were outscored 24-9. The latter bounced back with 18-11 in the third period and reduced to 54:47 entering the last frame. Moreover Pavel Shavkunov (185-G-91) made it 54:49, however France did not slow down. The hosts won the last quarter 20-14 and advanced to the top four teams.
Evan Fournier paced all the winners with 20 points for the Semifinal birth. Mael Lebrun netted 10, while Kandolo Okonda Kahudi and Fabien Paschal (206-C/F-91) scored 9 apiece. Dmitry Kulagin (195-G-92) finished the game with 21 points and Pavel Shavkunov had 11.
In the Semifinal France will meet Lithuania U18 that proved the ambitions for the top places and advanced to the Semifinals of the U18 European Championship Men 2009, in Metz, France. The Baltic side won over Croatia 74:55 to remain undefeated.

France U18: Evan Fournier 20, Mael Lebrun 10, Kandolo Okonda Kahudi 9, Fabien Paschal 9
Russia U18: Dmitry Kulagin 21, Pavel Shavkunov 11

Moscow announced the 2009/2010 Superleague teams - by Eurobasket News
It is sad to mention however 2009/2010 Superleague will not have Ural Great and University Surgut. Because of the financial problems both teams could not continue their participation in the top league. The 2009/2010 Superleague will have only 9 teams: CSKA, Khimky, Dynamo Moscow, Unics, Triumph, Spartak SP, Krasnoyarsk, Lokomotiv and Krasnie Krilya. The latter is the new name for the team CSK VVS Samara. This season the teams will have more interesting play-off series as it will last until 3 games only in the Quarterfinals. The Semifinals and the Finals will have best-of-seven series. The Russian Cup Final Four will be played on February 19-20.

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SENEGAL

Sitapha Savane stays with Granca Canaria two more years - by Eurobasket News
Senegalese / Spanish player Sitapha Savane (202-F-78, college: Navy) will stay with Gran Canaria at least two more years. He is a member of Granca since 2004, when he moved from Tenerife. Last season Savane had important role in the squad. In ACB he appeared 35 times averaging 9.2 ppg, 4.7 rpg and 1.1 bpg. He was fifth shot blocker of the league at the end. Granca also participated in FIBA EuroCup, where Savane added 5.5 ppg and 4.9 rpg in 8 games. Season 2005/06 was the best for Sitapha Savane on the island. On that one he had 13.9 ppg and 5.8 rpg in ACB.
Before arrival to Gran Canaria, Sitapha Savane played 3 years for Tenerife in LEB1. They earned promotion to ACB in 2003, spending there 2003/2004 season. Season 2000/2001 Savane played for Menorca, also in LEB1. The player graduated U.S. Naval Academy in 2000. He had 16.9 ppg and 7.2 rpg in senior season.
Until 2007 Sitapha Savane was standard member of Senegalese National Team. With them he participated at the World Championship 2006 in Japan averaging 8.6 ppg and 3.6 rpg in 5 games.

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SERBIA

Serbia U18 became the second Semifinalist - by Eurobasket News
Italy U18-Serbia U18 74:82 (13-15, 20-20, 21-25, 20-22)

Serbia U18 became the second Semifinalist of the U18 European Championship Men 2009, in Metz, France. The team overcame Italy 82:74 due to the second period.
Serbia were going up 6:2 before Italy eventually got going and took a 13:10 lead on Andrea De Nicolao's three-pointer. Torlak however closed the period with 5-0 with his team for 15:13. The Serbs though used a 9-0 run spanning the end of the first quarter and early part of the second to go up 19:13 on Branislav Djekic's hook shot. Contento tied the game at 21:21 and then again Serbia exploded with 10-0 run. De Nicolao was able to cut it to 31:29 and Riccardo Moraschini (195-G-91) sent the teams to the lockers for 35:33. Iannuzzi tied the game at the beginning of the third, while Polonara brought Italians 42:37. After 54:54 Serbia needed 6-0 run to close the third at 60:54. Italy tried hard but cloud not stay closer to the winners. Riccardo Moraschini made the last shot in the game for 82:74.
Danilo Andjusic (190-G-91, agency: Beo Basket) top-scored for the winners with 23 points for the Semifinal birth. Dejan Musli (214-C-91) collected 19 points and 12 rebounds, while Djekic added 16. De Nicolao finished the game with 22 points and Riccardo Moraschini posted 13.

Italy U18: De Nicolao 22, Riccardo Moraschini 13
Serbia U18: Danilo Andjusic 23, Dejan Musli 19+12 rebs, Djekic 16

Filip Sepa in Swisslions Vrsac - by Dragan Jankovski
Talented shooting guard Filip Sepa (199-G/F-90, agency: Beo Basket) will continue his development in Adriatic league participant KK Swisslion Takovo Vrsac. As a reminder, the team from Vrsac hired Miroslav Nikolic (agency: Beo Basket ) as a head coach few weeks ago and his main task at this moment is to create competitive team which will be able for serious challenge in the regional championship. One of the first moves is signing of hot prospect Sepa.

Filip Sepa was tested by Fortitudo Bologna at the beginning of the last season and after joined Crvena Zvezda. However, he did not have to many chance in the first team, so he also played for Crvena Zvezda 2 in Serbian B league. Sepa is a standard member of Serbian youth National Teams. With U16 Serbia he won Bronze medal on EuroBasket 2006 in Spain. Sepa had 13.3 ppg and 4.9 rpg in 8 games. Last summer in Greece he played for U18 Serbia and was one of the leading players. For 8 games on this EuroBasket Sepa had 16.3 ppg, 2.8 rpg and 2.3 apg. Now Sepa is a member of U20 Serbia.

Power forward Nikola Jovanovic (204-C-81, agency: BeoExcell) will stay in Poland. After very good season with Atlas Stal Ostrow, where Jovanovic had 15.5 ppg, 5.6 rpg and 1.7 apg, he moved to Anwil Wloclawek. Jovanovic joined Astal Ostrow from Swisslions Takovo during he summer 2008. Before Swisslions, he spent one season on Cyprus with InterCollege Etha Engomis. Jovanovic also used to play in Ergonom, Masinac Kraljevo, Hemofarm and Odzaci.

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SLOVENIA

Toronto Raptors sign Rasho Nesterovic - by Eurobasket News
The Toronto Raptors announced Thursday they have signed free-agent centre Radoslav Nesterovic (7'0''-C-76) (for those of you who like to talk, its pronounced RAH-show Neh-STARE-oh-vitch). Per team policy, financial details were not disclosed. Well post contract info later today.

Rasho brings us back a great veteran presence who has a familiarity with our coaching staff and several players. His leadership and personality will be great assets for this team, said Bryan Colangelo, Raptors President and General Manager.

Nesterovic, 7-foot, 255 pounds, rejoins the Raptors following one campaign in Indiana with the Pacers. The 11-year NBA veteran played two seasons with Toronto (2006-08) averaging 6.9 points, 4.6 rebounds and 20.9 minutes in 151 games. He appeared in 10 postseason contests with the Raptors averaging 4.0 points, 3.6 rebounds and 14.8 minutes. He was originally acquired from San Antonio on June 21, 2006.

Nesterovic was a first-round selection (17th overall) by the Minnesota Timberwolves in 1998. He signed with San Antonio as a free agent in the 2003 offseason. He has posted career averages of 7.0 points, 5.3 rebounds, 1.1 blocks and 22.8 minutes in 769 career games, 587 of them as a starter. In 64 postseason contests, he has averaged 4.0 points, 3.6 rebounds and 17.2 minutes. He was a member of the Spurs 2005 NBA Championship team.

Nesterovic joined the Timberwolves on May 4, 1999 after he had finished his season with Virtus Kinder Bologna of the Italian League. He averaged 13.5 points, shooting .653 from the field, 6.2 rebounds and 1.42 blocks for Kinder Bologna.

Courtesy of www.insidehoops.com

Union Olimpija signs Pawel Kikowski - by Matej Bergant
Slovenian champion and Euroleague participant signed Polish NT player Pawel Kikowski (193-G-86) on three years contract. Kikowski played last season in Kotwica Kolobrzeg where he was fan favourite and averaged 12.4ppg, 2.0rpg, 2.4apg. He also led his team to victory in Polish Cup final. He was also twice voted by the fans to the Polish All-Star game. Kikowski will be part of Polish NT on the upcoming Eurobasket 2009.

Pinete leads the Baltic side over Slovenian juniors - by Eurobasket News
Latvia U18-Slovenia U18 93:71

Latvia will play for the 9th place on Sunday in France. The Baltic team overcame Slovenia 93:71 at the Classification Round for 9th to 12th Places.
Latvia started with 16-0 run and easily kept the lead after. Ernijs Ansons (191-G/F-91) made a dunk at the end of the period for 28:13. Latvia also scored 28 points in the second frame and allowed the opponents to post 17. Ugis Pinete (194-F-91) sent the teams to the lockers with 56:30 halftime advantage. Nikolic Smrdelj opened the third period, while opened the scoring account for the Baltic representatives. Slovenia won however the third period 19-12 to cut it to 68:49. Ernijs Ansons and Martins Meiers (206-C-91) scored from the free throw line for 75:51. Slovenia created a 9-0 run for 77:63, but Martins Meiers made it 90:70. The latter also made the final shot in the game for the total victory.
Ugis Pinete led the way with 22 points and Martins Meiers netted 18. Ernijs Ansons and Artjoms Butjankovs (201-C-91) followed them with 11 points each. Edo Muric (202-F-91) chipped in 18 points and Nikolic Smrdelj scored 12.
In another game Bulgaria won the first game of the Classification Round for 9th to 12th Places in U18 European Championship. The team overcame the German side 55:47 to play for the 9th place on Sunday.

Latvia U18: Ugis Pinete 22, Martins Meiers 18, Ernijs Ansons 11, Artjoms Butjankovs 11
Slovenia U18: Edo Muric 18, Nikolic Smrdelj 12

Olimpija inks Kikowski - by Zeljko Zule
Slovenian champion Union Olimpija announced the signing of guard-forward Pawel Kikowski (193-G-86, agency: Limelight Hoops) till June 2012. Kikowski arives from Kotwica Kolobrzeg, where he averaged 12,4 points, 2,0 rebounds and 2,4 assists in 2008-09 Polish League. He is also a regular member of the Polish national team and is set to take part in the upcoming EuroBasket 2009. .

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SPAIN

Darren Phillip extends with CAI Zaragoza - by Eurobasket News
CAI Zaragoza continued with strengthening of its roster after securing a deal for its player Darren Phillip (201-F-78, college: Fairfield). British International has signed two-year extension and will continue to contribute with Spanish team. Phillip stated that he is glad he was offered the new deal. As the interest of extending cooperation was mutual, the negotiations were quick and he will play his third season for Zaragoza.
Darren Phillip played for four years at Fairfield University in NCAA. He became one of the team's best scorers averaging 15.9 points and 14.0 rebounds per game in 29 games. In 2000 he signed his first professional contract with BC Unicaja Malaga. In 2001 he won Radivoj Korac Cup with Unicaja averaging 7.8 points and 4.7 rebounds per game. After four seasons at Unicaja, Phillip moved to Caja San Fernando where he played for two years. In 2006 he signed a contract with ABA team Strong Island Sound where he averaged 18.6 points and 12.5 rebounds, which was enough for him to draw interest from CAI Zaragoza. In January of 2007, he signed with Zaragoza and has since established himself as integral part of the squad. In his first full season with Zaragoza, Phillip averaged 18.0 points and 6.5 rebounds in 35 LEB Games. Last season, Phillips had 7.6 points and 3.9 rebounds per game with Zaragoza in ACB. This was more than enough for him to earn contract extension.

DKV Joventut brings Tucker, Alicante gets Gelabale - by Eurobasket News
DKV Joventut added another important acquisition. After arrival of Serbian National Team player Uros Tripkovic (196-G-86, agency: Beo Basket) and contract extensions with Pere Tomas (202-F-89) and Christian Eyenga (195-G-89), the team from Baladona agreed one-year deal with Clay Tucker (195-G-80, agency: Pro One Sports, college: Wisc.-Milwaukee), who helped Cajasol Sevilla to survive in ACB last season. He moved to Seville in February from BC Kyiv. At that moment Cajasol had disappointing score and was already seen in LEB Gold, but Clay Tucker then stepped up and with 17.5 ppg in 11 games helped his team to survive. Even 2 rounds before the end of regular season they were safe. Before Cajasol and Kyiv, Tucker played for Khimky Moscow, Italian Teramo, Le Mans, Polpak, MENT and Sundsvall Dragons.

CB Granada decided to extend contract with Juan Gutierrez (205-F/C-83). It means that next season with be the sixth one for Gutierrez with the club.

Lucentum Alicante finally reached an agreement with the French player Mickael Gelabale (201-F-83). They signed one-year deal. Before Gelabale, Alicante already secured service of point guard Vule Avdalovic (189-G-81, agency: Beo Basket), ex Pamesa Valencia. It means that ACB newcomer is making competitive team for the next season and more arrivals are expected. Mickael Gelabale is not a new face in Spain as from 2004 to 2006 he was a player of Real Madrid. In 2005 they won ACB title and played the Final of Copa del Rey.

Manresa lands Brian Cusworth, Granada inks Joe Ingles - by Eurobasket News
Manresa announced arrival of the American big guy Brian Cusworth (213-C-84, college: Harvard). They signed 2-year deal yesterday.
Brian Cusworth most recently played for Leche Rio Breogan in LEB Gold. He appeared 30 times last season registering 15.9 ppg, 7.1 rpg and 1.3 bpg. He finished the competition as fifth best shot blocker. Season 2007/08 Cusworth spent with Estonian Tartu Rock. He had impressive performance in Baltic league collecting 15.3 ppg and 5.9 rpg. In FIBA EuroCup he had 12.9 ppg and 7.2 rpg for 13 games.
Brian Cusworth graduated on Harward University in 2007. In his senior season Cusworth had 17.4 ppg and 9.1 rpg.

In the meantime, CB Granada signed 2-year deal with Australian National Team member Joe Ingles (203-G/F-87, agency: Priority Sports). The player also holds a British passport, what was important thing is this transfer.
Joe Ingles appeared last summer with Team Australia at the Olympic Games in Beijing. He played 5 games averaging 4.8 ppg and 1 spg. Last season he won the title in Australia with Melbourne South Dragons adding 13.1 ppg, 4.1 rpg and 3.5 apg in 38 games. In 2007 he was named 'All-Australian NBL Rookie of the Year'. In the past he also played for Bulleen Boomers and AIS.

Turkey surprise Spain at the quarter-final U18 encounter - by Eurobasket News
Spain U18- Turkey U18 62:76 ( 14-12, 14-18, 16-22, 18-24 )

Turkey upset Spain at the quarter-final encounter at the U18 European Championship Men 2009 in Metz, France. The fourth team of Group F overcame the winner of Group E 76:62 and advanced to the semifinals.
In the opening quarter the teams exchanged the baskets and remained close all the time. Only in the end of the period Spain grabbed 14:12 as Lorenzo made a lay-up. Servera tied the game at 21:21 and then Josep Franch (198-G-91) gave Spain 26:21. Turkey finished the half on top though with Burak Yuksel hitting from beyond the arc before Can M. Mutaf (193-G-91) tied it at 26 from the foul line. Turkey had 30:28 at the halftime after 18-14 in the second period. The latter did not even think of slowing down when the teams came back from the lockers. Can M. Mutaf made a jump shot for 40:31 and Can M. Mutaf scored for 45:35. Servera closed the third period at 52:44 with a jump shot. No matter how hard Spain tried to catch up, Turkey kept the necessary difference. Can M. Mutaf scored for 61:49 midway through the last quarter and Enes Kanter (206-C-92) gave Turkey 61:51. Onguner was to last to post in the game as Turkey celebrated the important victory.
Enes Kanter was unstoppable with 21 points and 18 rebounds for the winners. Can M. Mutaf nailed 17 and Furkan Aldemir (205-F-91) scored 11. Josep Franch delivered 12 for Spain and Ignacio Llovet (202-C-91) chipped in 11.

Spain U18: Josep Franch 12, Ignacio Llovet 11
Turkey U18: Enes Kanter 21+18 rebs, Can M. Mutaf 17, Furkan Aldemir 11

Sitapha Savane stays with Granca Canaria two more years - by Eurobasket News
Senegalese / Spanish player Sitapha Savane (202-F-78, college: Navy) will stay with Gran Canaria at least two more years. He is a member of Granca since 2004, when he moved from Tenerife. Last season Savane had important role in the squad. In ACB he appeared 35 times averaging 9.2 ppg, 4.7 rpg and 1.1 bpg. He was fifth shot blocker of the league at the end. Granca also participated in FIBA EuroCup, where Savane added 5.5 ppg and 4.9 rpg in 8 games. Season 2005/06 was the best for Sitapha Savane on the island. On that one he had 13.9 ppg and 5.8 rpg in ACB.
Before arrival to Gran Canaria, Sitapha Savane played 3 years for Tenerife in LEB1. They earned promotion to ACB in 2003, spending there 2003/2004 season. Season 2000/2001 Savane played for Menorca, also in LEB1. The player graduated U.S. Naval Academy in 2000. He had 16.9 ppg and 7.2 rpg in senior season.
Until 2007 Sitapha Savane was standard member of Senegalese National Team. With them he participated at the World Championship 2006 in Japan averaging 8.6 ppg and 3.6 rpg in 5 games.

Alicante Add Mario Austin - by Andrew Hill
Lucentum Alicante announced today that they have added another player to their roster. Mario Austin (206-F/C-82,)a Center from Mississippi State, spent last year with 2 teams, Besiktas of Turkey and Fujian SBS XunXin in the Chinese league. Coach Oscar Quintana has now added 3 players in quick succession showing the team's desire to be competitive in their first season back in the ACB. Austin can play both the power forward role as well as Center, and has a good touch from the perimeter. In only his second game in China he personally destroyed Shanghai with a 53 point game. Alicante's fans will hope that he can reproduce that kind of form in the ACB this year.

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TRINIDAD AND TOBAGO

TT Ian Young leads CBC in stats! - by Albert-Lee Young
Ian Young, Trinidad & Tobago 6/4 point guard, was arguably the most valuable player in the recently concluded Caribbean Basketball Confederation Championships in BVI, at least according to the stats categories.

Young, who were amongst four TT players listed in the top 10 leaders in eight of the nine stats categories, led the championships with 30 assists for an average of 6 assists per game. He was also 2nd in the 3pt category with 13 made shots; 3rd in free throw averages with an 87.5%; 5th in total points with 92 made points, averaging 18.4pts per game; 7th in the free throws made stats with 21 for an average of 4.2 per game; and 9th with 39.4% in the 3pt averages. Altogether Young recorded a top ten finish in six categories. Added to his outstanding statistics, Young was chosen in the CBC ALL-FIRST TEAM.

Also in more than one category was 6/9 center Julius Ashby who finished 2nd in rebounding with 41 rebounds for an average of 8.2 per game; 4th in blocks shots with 5; and 8th in points with 70 made for an average of 14 points per game. Ashby was also in the CBC ALL-SECOND TEAM.

In the rebounding category, 6/8 power forward Wilfred Spongy Benjamin was 1st with a total of 45 rebounds, averaging 9 rebounds per game. TT dominated the top two positions in this category with Benjamin & Ashby respectively. Benjamin also had 64 points and tied for 10th place in the total points made category.

The other TT player listed was 6/10 forward Reginald George who shot 45.5% from the 3pt range to finish 4th in the 3pt average. It was only in the steals category that TT failed to gain a top 10 finish. However for the records Julius Ashby had 6 steals; and Marlon Pompey & Ian Young tallied 5 apiece. Pompey was unfortunately not listed in the free throw averages despite having an 83.3% record, scoring 10 from 12. He had a game high 14pts, 5 assists & 3 steals against Cuba.

In addition to the TT Top 10 stats leaders was Steven Lighter Lewis who had a solid tournament. Lewis shot 55% from the field and 65% from the free throw line for an average of 12 points per game, including a game high 27 points that sparked TT convincing victory against Jamaica in the tournament opening game.

Despite missing out on the championship game, the outstanding performance by team TT was highlighted by its players individual achievements.

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TURKEY

Lynn Greer joins Fenerbahce - by Eurobasket News
Lynn Greer (186-G-79, college: Temple) agreed on terms of contract with Turkish Fenerbahce. The 30-year-old point guard played for Olympiakos last season. There Greer averaged 8.7 points and 1.6 assists per game in the Greek League. In EuroLeague his stats came up to 12.2 points, 1.7 boards and 1.6 assists per appearance. Lynn Greer is the Temple graduate. The guard played in the NBDL, NBA, Russia, Italy and Greece before moving to Olympiakos in 2007.

Turkey surprise Spain at the quarter-final U18 encounter - by Eurobasket News
Spain U18- Turkey U18 62:76 ( 14-12, 14-18, 16-22, 18-24 )

Turkey upset Spain at the quarter-final encounter at the U18 European Championship Men 2009 in Metz, France. The fourth team of Group F overcame the winner of Group E 76:62 and advanced to the semifinals.
In the opening quarter the teams exchanged the baskets and remained close all the time. Only in the end of the period Spain grabbed 14:12 as Lorenzo made a lay-up. Servera tied the game at 21:21 and then Josep Franch (198-G-91) gave Spain 26:21. Turkey finished the half on top though with Burak Yuksel hitting from beyond the arc before Can M. Mutaf (193-G-91) tied it at 26 from the foul line. Turkey had 30:28 at the halftime after 18-14 in the second period. The latter did not even think of slowing down when the teams came back from the lockers. Can M. Mutaf made a jump shot for 40:31 and Can M. Mutaf scored for 45:35. Servera closed the third period at 52:44 with a jump shot. No matter how hard Spain tried to catch up, Turkey kept the necessary difference. Can M. Mutaf scored for 61:49 midway through the last quarter and Enes Kanter (206-C-92) gave Turkey 61:51. Onguner was to last to post in the game as Turkey celebrated the important victory.
Enes Kanter was unstoppable with 21 points and 18 rebounds for the winners. Can M. Mutaf nailed 17 and Furkan Aldemir (205-F-91) scored 11. Josep Franch delivered 12 for Spain and Ignacio Llovet (202-C-91) chipped in 11.

Spain U18: Josep Franch 12, Ignacio Llovet 11
Turkey U18: Enes Kanter 21+18 rebs, Can M. Mutaf 17, Furkan Aldemir 11

Turkey fall to Canada - by Eurobasket News
Turkey - Canada 57:60
Turkish National Team came up short against Canada in the exhibition game in Bormio, Italy. Narrowly beating Angola just a day ago Turkey could not repeat the trick against the North American team. Canada grabbed a narrow 11:10 lead after the starting frame. Turkey managed to draw things level in the second frame as the teams arrived at halftime tied at 25. But Canada stepped on the gas after the major break. They ensured a 45:43 lead at three-quarter time. Turkey failed to strike back and had to surrender at the end.
Faruk Asik (211-C-86) finished with 14 points for Turkey. Bekir Yarangume (198-F-79) had 8 points, while Ersan Ilyasova (207-F-87) and Omer Onan (194-G-78) added 7 points each in the losing case.

Simas Jasaitis joins Galatasaray - by Baha Kurtulus
Galatasaray Cafecrown Istanbul agreed terms with Lithuanian small forward Simas Jasaitis (202-F/G-82) for the next season.
He also represents the Lithuania national basketball team.
His first team in the LKL was Sakalai during the 2000-2001 season. In the fall of 2001 moved to Lietuvos Rytas, and played there till 2006. In his first season with the club he was averaging 8 points and 3.6 rebounds per game.

2008-2009: DKV Joventut Badalona
Euroleague: 10 games: 9.3ppg, 2.8rpg, 1.0apg
Spanish League: 34 games: 8.9ppg, 3.2rpg

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U.S. VIRGIN ISLANDS

NBBA: Hoyas Claim 2nd with Win Over Guidance - by David Edole
July 30, 2009-- Darnel 'Burger' Hendrickson found his shooting touch and the Hoyas avoided back to back defeats in the New Breed Basketball Association summer league by beating a tough Guidance squad, 107-96.
Wednesday night's contest was a battle for second place during the final game of the regular season in the Educational Complex Gymnasium.
Hendrickson was not as harassed by Guidance as he had been by the unbeaten Chosen Ones, but the going was not much easier, either. But this time he was more aggressive, attacking the defense, drawing fouls and getting to the charity stripes for 10 of his game high 32 points.
A nice crowd came out to see the game, not nearly as large as the Hoyas-Chosen Ones contest, but pretty decent just the same, and for three quarters they were treated to some of the most exciting basketball of the season. Guidance's Calvert White (191-G/F-75, college: SE Missouri St.) brought the crowd to its feet with a thunderous dunk over a couple of Hoyas defenders on an alley-oop from Jermaine Mulley.
Defense ruled the day in the opening period and after one quarter only one point separated the teams, with Guidance holding a 24-23 advantage. Guidances White and the Hoyas Karl John led their respective teams with eight points apiece in the opening stanza.
The second quarter was just as tightly played as the first, but this time it was the Hoyas eked out a 23-22 advantage in the period, and the game was all squared at 46 at intermission. Burger led the Hoyas second quarter attack with eight points and Karl John dropped in six, while Guidance got scores from nine players.
Hendrickson hit a three-pointer to start the second half and the Hoyas went on a 9-0 run to jump out to a 55-46 lead. But back came Guidance with an 11-2 run highlighted by two three-pointers by White and the score was all tied at 57 with two minutes left in the third. An exchange of three pointers by the Hoyas' Omari Applewaite and White and the teams were once again deadlocked at 60. The Hoyas then outscored their opponents 14-6 to go up 74-66, only to see Guidance roar back with a 7-0 run to close out the third quarter down just one point, at 74-73. Hendrickson and Kurt John led the Hoyas with nine and six points respectively while White and Richard isles both netted eight Guidance points in the period.
The Hoyas outscored Guidance 19-11 in the first 4:16 of the fourth quarter and never looked back. Led by 15 points by Andre McIntosh in the final period, the defending champs cruised the rest of the way to a 107-96 victory to claim sole possession of second place as the regular season came to an end.
Hendrickson led the Hoyas with a game-high 32 points, Karl John netted 21 points, grabbed 13 rebounds and dished off four assist, MacIntosh dropped in 16 and Kurt John and Applewaite finished with 12 and 16 points respectively for the Hoyas. Malik Hodge led four players in double figures with 23 points. Calvert White netted 21 points, grabbed 10 rebounds, and dished out seven assists, Taaron Jones (-G-91) scored 16 and Isles had 10.
By Dave Davis

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UKRAINE

Fourth quarter lesson for Slovakians - by Alexander Muzyka
Friendly

July 31
Ukraine - Slovakia - 95:72 (17:18, 25:22, 18:12, 35:20)
U: Vilkhovetskiyi 5, Glebov 6, Onufriev 3 + 5 rbs, Agafonov 8, Fesenko 9 + 4 rbs - start; Gladyr 24 + 4 rbs, Pecherov 12 + 7 rbs, Kolchenko 10, Popov 6, Kravtsov 6, Kornienko 6, Panchenko.
S: Gavel 19 + 6 ast, Novak 17, Betko 3, Sedlak, Czalay 6 + 5 rbs - start; Sykora 11, Batka 8, Nuber 3, Cervenka 3 + 4 tos, Rerko 2, Miklosik, Sedmak DNP.

Pustozvonov, Lukashov, Lischuk are expected to play tomorrow. Saltovets cut his lip and is out for a week. Drozdov watched the game but didn't want to comment the situation of his refuse to play for a NT.

Dime Tasovski signs with the team from Lviv - by Eurobasket News
Macedonian star Dime Tasovski (201-F-80) heads to Ukraine and will play for Politehnika-Galychyna. The player was a real hero for his previous Fersped Rabotnicki.
Dime Tasovski started his career with Zito Vardar Veles. In 2003 he spent a single season at Vardar Skopje before moving to Rabotnicki in 2004. With Rabotnicki has won 4 title and 2 national cups. This season, Tasovksi played in 12 BIBL games averaging 14.7 points and 3.6 rebounds. His Fersped Rabotnicki made it in Game 6 of the Big Macedonian Finals. Rabotnicki managed to crush the defending champion again (this time in Skopje) and to finish the Finals with 4-2. Dime Tasovski was hero of the night. He was totally unstoppable finishing the game with impressive 37 points and 6 rebounds. Dime Tasovski played 35 minutes shooting 10/12 for FG2, 3/7 for 3-pts and 8/14 from the line.
He has an experience in FIBA Europe Cup, Balkan League and the National team. The Macedonian player should be a great addition to the roster of the team from Lviv. The team is ready for the next season however might sign another foreigner soon.

Standings - Superleague

Superleague Standings

1. Mykolaiv	0-0
2. Budivelnyk	0-0
3. BC Odessa	0-0
4. Dnipro	0-0
5. Ferro-ZNTU	0-0
6. BC Kyiv	0-0
7. Azovmash	0-0
8. Pulsar	0-0
9. Politek.Lviv	0-0
10. Kryvbasbasket	0-0
11. Khimik	0-0
12. BC Donetsk	0-0
13. Hoverla	0-0
14. DniproAzot	0-0
15. Kremen-Pol.	0-0

UNITED KINGDOM

Darren Phillip extends with CAI Zaragoza - by Eurobasket News
CAI Zaragoza continued with strengthening of its roster after securing a deal for its player Darren Phillip (201-F-78, college: Fairfield). British International has signed two-year extension and will continue to contribute with Spanish team. Phillip stated that he is glad he was offered the new deal. As the interest of extending cooperation was mutual, the negotiations were quick and he will play his third season for Zaragoza.
Darren Phillip played for four years at Fairfield University in NCAA. He became one of the team's best scorers averaging 15.9 points and 14.0 rebounds per game in 29 games. In 2000 he signed his first professional contract with BC Unicaja Malaga. In 2001 he won Radivoj Korac Cup with Unicaja averaging 7.8 points and 4.7 rebounds per game. After four seasons at Unicaja, Phillip moved to Caja San Fernando where he played for two years. In 2006 he signed a contract with ABA team Strong Island Sound where he averaged 18.6 points and 12.5 rebounds, which was enough for him to draw interest from CAI Zaragoza. In January of 2007, he signed with Zaragoza and has since established himself as integral part of the squad. In his first full season with Zaragoza, Phillip averaged 18.0 points and 6.5 rebounds in 35 LEB Games. Last season, Phillips had 7.6 points and 3.9 rebounds per game with Zaragoza in ACB. This was more than enough for him to earn contract extension.

Noel Returns For Raiders - by Andy Webb
The Airwaves Plymouth Raiders are delighted to announce that 67 forward James Noel (201-F-82, college: Master's), is returning to the team for the 2009/10 season. James signed his contract and sent it back to the Raiders late Tuesday evening of this week.

This will be Noels third straight season with the Raiders and along with Allister Gall, and it provides the team with a nucleus of consistency and familiarity from last season. Noels performances have improved each year hes been in Plymouth, and Coach Gary Stronach believes this trend will continue again this year.

Along with everybody else in the squad, this will be a huge season for James. Obviously his minutes should increase at the power forward position and I know that he is eager to improve on the last two seasons that he has spent with the Raiders. He is busy working out in the States, and the person I have spoken to has said that he looks in excellent shape and is looking forward to the challenge this season.

Earlier this summer, Noel played at a big tryout camp held in Boston in front of hundreds of European scouts and coaches. There he attracted a good amount of attention and a couple of teams offered him a contract for the 2009/10 season. There were a couple of times during the summer so far when I thought we had lost him, added Stronach. Im delighted though that his dedication to the team over the past couple of years is set to continue and we can help him develop his game again as happened last year

Last season, when Terrence Durham went down with a season ending knee injury, it was Noel who stepped into the starting lineup and provided the Raiders with some huge games. His performance in the BBL Playoff Semi Final against Newcastle was outstanding, and his confidence on the basketball court saw Noel become a focal point of the Raiders offence.

Noel averaged 6points and 4.6 rebounds a game in 2008/09, but this hides some standout performances in the second half of the season. Against Newcastle, he top scored with 21 points (on 9/12 shooting) and pulled down 11 rebounds.

Im really looking forward to coming back to Plymouth, said Noel. I had some genuine offers this summer, but Ive enjoyed my time at Plymouth and made some good friends there. I wanted to come back and help the team, developing my own game at the same time.

Raiders players will arrive in the City over the last weekend of August, and start training together on the 1st September, in preparation for the pre season games on 12th, 16th and 22nd of September. The BBL Championship season then starts on Saturday 26th with an away game with Worthing Thunder.

FANS FAVOURITE WESTBROOKS RETURNS - by Andy Webb
A third member of last seasons squad has signed up for the 2009/10 campaign for Jelson Homes DMU Leicester Riders.

Popular Irishman Isaac Westbrooks (190-G-85) joins fellow returnees Barry Lamble and LaTaryl Williams on Rob Paternostros roster.

The 24-year-old was voted Player of the Season by the Riders fans after excelling in the starting point guard role. Westbrooks had begun the year as the back-up guard but finished it playing 40-minutes per game.

Isaac is a young player who I thought improved tremendously as the season went on, Paternostro stated. From the moment I watched him play in the summer last year I knew there was something special about the kid because he had poise beyond his years.

Not only is he a player you can go to war with during games, but in practice as well he plays hard every day. I expect him to improve again because I thought at the end of the year he really turned in some solid games, not only offensively but defensively as well. He is the kind of guy who is versatile enough on the defensive end to guard a couple of different types of player. Im looking forward to having back.

Westbrooks averaged 6.5 points, 3 rebounds, 3 assists and 1.5 steals per game in his first season in the BBL and his all round contribution was probably what swayed the fans to vote for him.

I thought that was something special and I know Isaac was touched to receive that award. The Riders fans are the most knowledgeable in the BBL and they saw the kind of intangibles that he brought to the game. Isaac wasnt the leading scorer, the highest rebounder or the top assist guy a lot of the time, but when you look back at the tapes he had a great deal to do with the wins that we had.

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URUGUAY

Montevideo will play the LUB 2010 - by Hector Lopez
Montevideo already won the rigth to play the Uruguayan LUB 2010, after beating Urunday Universitario 85-75 during the last round for the Metro League regular season. Montevideo will now play the Super Four for the Metro Championship and a second promotion with Larraaga, Welcome and Larre Borges, carrying half of the points already won. The results for the last round and main scoerers (Incluiding import players) were:
Montevideo 85 - Diego Taramasso (192-F-78) 20
Urunday 75 - Jorge Trindade (205-F/C-89) 18
- -
Welcome 95 - Ollie Bailey (201-F-85, college: Oklahoma City) 21 points and 7 rebounds
25 de Agosto 83 - Martin Aguilera (195-F-87) 27 and 8 rebounds
- - -
Nacional 67 - Luis De Leon (194-F-88) 19, Julio Solano (202-F/C-76) 8 rebounds
Larraaga 66 - Federico Martinez (203-F/C-74) 26
- - -
Verdirrojo 83 - Alvaro Ramirez (195-F/C-74) 27 points Stacy Pearson-Taylor (198-F-83, college: Bemidji St.) 5 points
Larre Borges 63 - Roberto Amaro (197-F-69) 21 and 12 rebounds
- - -
Capitol 88 - Sebastian Izaguirre (207-C/F-85) 22
Yale 66 - Howard Wilkerson (198-F-84, college: Wofford) 21

Standings - Metropolitan League

Metropolitan Standings

1. Montevideo	20-2
2. Larranaga	15-7
3. Welcome	13-9
4. Larre Borges	12-10
5. 25 de Agosto	12-10
6. Olivol Mundial	11-11
7. Capitol	10-12
8. Nacional	10-12
9. Yale	10-12
10. Verdirrojo	10-12
11. Urunday Univ.	9-13
12. Goes	0-22

Reque Newsome is an Uruguayan citizen to play for the NT - by Hector Lopez
Reque Newsome (203-C-82, college: S.Indiana) has received the Uruguayan citizenship and will be able to play for the NT during the next FIBA Americas Championship to he held in San Juan Puerto Rico from Aug 26 to Sept 8, were announced by officials from the local Federation. Newsome played during the last three years the Uruguayan League for Olimpia and he already announced will be also playing the next local tournament. He is married with an Uruguayan. The FIBA Americas Championship will give four places for the 2010 FIBA World Tournament to be held in Turkey.

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VENEZUELA

Latinbasket.com All-Venezuelan LPB 2009 Awards - by Richard

Elliott

Vargas

Washington

Braggs

Matthews

Player of the Year: Torraye Braggs (203-F/C-76) of Guaros de Lara
Guard of the Year: Carl Elliott (193-G-83) of Cocodrilos de Caracas
Forward of the Year: Torraye Braggs of Guaros de Lara
Center of the Year: Clarence Matthews (201-F-83) of Gigantes de Guayana of Gigantes de Guayana
Newcomer of the Year: Jesus Urbina (201-F-84) of Toros de Aragua
Most Improved Player of the Year: Luis Bethelmy (200-C-86) of Cocodrilos de Caracas
Import Player of the Year: Torraye Braggs of Guaros de Lara
Domestic Player of the Year: Jose Vargas of Trotamundos de Carabobo
Defensive Player of the Year: Brian Latham (184-G-83) of Panteras de Miranda
Coach of the Year: Tony Ruiz of Guaros de Lara

1st Team
Carl Elliott of Cocodrilos de Caracas
Jose Vargas of Trotamundos de Carabobo
Rogers Washington (198-F-77) of Guaiqueries de Margarita
Torraye Braggs of Guaros de Lara
Clarence Matthews of Gigantes de Guayana

2nd Team
Ruben Nembhard (191-G-72) of Gaiteros del Zulia
Kelvin Pena (193-G-81) of Guaiqueries de Margarita
Michael Gale (193-G-82) of Marinos de Anzoategui
Alejandro Flores (202-F-81) of Toros de Aragua
Chris Jackson (208-C-81) of Guaiqueries de Margarita

All-Domestic Players Team
Heissler Guillent (186-G-86) of Guaros de Lara
Jose Vargas of Trotamundos de Carabobo
Alejandro Barrios (205-C-79) of Gaiteros del Zulia
Axiers Sucre (198-F-78) of Marinos de Anzoategui
Pablo Machado (207-C-77) of Guaros de Lara

All-Imports Team
Carl Elliott of Cocodrilos de Caracas
Kelvin Pena of Guaiqueries de Margarita
Rogers Washington of Guaiqueries de Margarita
Torraye Braggs of Guaros de Lara
Clarence Matthews of Gigantes de Guayana

All-Defensive Team
Brian Latham of Panteras de Miranda
Kelvin Pena of Guaiqueries de Margarita
Michael Gale of Marinos de Anzoategui
Torraye Braggs of Guaros de Lara
Richard Lugo (209-C-73) of Trotamundos de Carabobo

All-Newcomers Team
Daniel Macuare (190-F-84) of Gigantes de Guayana
Douglas Chiquito (193-G-86) of Guaiqueries de Margarita
Jackson Zapata (198-F-85) of Guaiqueries de Margarita
Pedro Montano (201-F-84) of Gigantes de Guayana
Jesus Urbina of Toros de Aragua

Venezuela vs. Puerto Rico - by Wolfgang Lucena
source http://www.liderendeportes.com This upcoming August 7th and 8th, Venezuela senior national team will be facing Puerto Rico in a practice game in Asuncion City Arena, Margarita Island as part of both nation's preparation schedule. The team from Borinquen is one of those stronger rivals that Venezuela will be facing in the 2009 FIBA Classificatory in August 26 through September 6th in San Juan Puerto Rico.
'This is really good for the hopes of both squads; we are really excited because our guys will be able to show against their similar, good skills and good shape for this very important event', Martha Aguilar F.V.B General Director
Both team are expected to play once again another friendly game in Puerto Rico on August 14th and 15th

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WORLD CHAMPIONSHIPS U19

Groups Standings

World Championships U19 Final Standings
1. USA
2. Greece
3. Croatia
4. Australia
5. Argentina
6. P.Rico
7. Canada
8. France
9. Lithuania
10. Spain
11. Egypt
12. Kazakhstan.
13. N.Zealand
14. Angola
15. Iran
16. Syria

Stats Leaders

Points Per Game

Michael ROSARIO
  PUR
  (191-G-90)
  Avg: 24

1. Rosario, PUR	24.0
2. Delas, CRO	20.0
3. Tyutyunik, KAZ	19.4
4. Sherif, EGY	19.0
5. Loe, NZL	18.8
6. Prostran, CRO	17.8
7. Motiejunas, LTU	17.3
8. Kazemi, IRI	16.6
9. Arop, CAN	16.2
10. Ruscoe, N.	16.2

Rebounds Per Game

Miguel KIALA
(198-C-90)
Avg: 13.6

1. Kiala, ANG	13.6
2. Kazemi, IRI	12.2
3. Rasio, ARG	9.0
4. Oraby, EGY	8.4
5. Olynyk, CAN	8.3
6. Motiejunas, LTU	8.0
7. Zubcic, CRO	7.9
8. Leonard, FRA	7.8
9. Hassanzadeh, IRI	7.6
10. Vicens, E.	7.4

Assists Per Game

Toni PROSTRAN
(183-G-91)
Avg: 5.3

1. Prostran, CRO	5.3
2. Cizauskas, LTU	5.0
3. Fontan, PUR	5.0
4. Ismail, KAZ	4.9
5. Albicy, FRA	4.7
6. Taylor, USA	4.4
7. Fernandez, ARG	3.6
8. Perez, ESP	3.4
9. Falahat, IRI	3.2
10. Sloukas, G.	3.2

Steals Per Game

Arsalan KAZEMI
  IRI
  (202-F-90)
  Avg: 4

1. Kazemi, IRI	4.0
2. Albicy, FRA	3.3
3. Loe, NZL	3.0
4. Al Jabe, SYR	2.8
5. Ferreira, ANG	2.8
6. Perez, ESP	2.5
7. Sherif, EGY	2.4
8. Antonio, ANG	2.2
9. Young, PUR	2.0
10. Ismail, K.	2.0

Blocks Per Game

Farbod FARMAN
(208-C-91)
Avg: 2.6

1. Farman, IRI	2.6
2. Papanikolaou, GRE	2.3
3. Kazemi, IRI	2.0
4. Lopez, PUR	1.7
5. Allison, CAN	1.6
6. Delas, CRO	1.4
7. Sane, FRA	1.4
8. Nirenberg, PUR	1.4
9. Oraby, EGY	1.4
10. Miller, U.	1.3

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Women News

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ARGENTINA - Women

U19 WC in Bangkok: Argentina hands 67-65 overtime loss to Russia in Quarterfinals - by Eurobasket News
World Championships U19: ARGENTINA - RUSSIA 67-65

Argentina outsmarted Russia in thriller advancing to Semifinals of FIBA U19 World Championship in Bangkok. It was very exciting game, decided in overtime. Andrea Boquete Manna (178-F-90) demonstrated the best performance for the winners today registering double-double, 18 points and 10 rebounds. Agostina Burani (189-F/C-91) helped with 12 points and 9 boards, plus Debora Gonzalez (174-G-90) added 11 pts. For the Russians Anastasia Logunova (188-C-90) delivered 14 points and grabbed 11 boards. Tatiana Petrushina (185-F-90) followed with 13 points and 7 rebounds.
First and third quarter belonged to Argentina, while in second and fourth Russia was better team. Argentina opened the game better creating nice 20-15 lead. Russia was on the same level in offense, but on the other side they stopped Argentina on 13 points in the second frame closing the gap to 3 pts. Argentina had extremely poor third frame, with many mistakes and missed shots. Russia also did not shine, but anyway managed to end this period 6-13. It means that the Russians entered to last stanza with plus 4. It was less than five seconds remaining in the game when Russia had 57-59 lead. Than Andrea Boquete Manna stepped up for Argentina scoring from the paint to give her team chance in overtime. It seems that Russians were in shock because they almost won the game so Argentina expoited this opportunity, their players were little bit more concentrated than their rivals what resulted with 8-6 in extra five minutes. Argentina will most probably meet Spain in the Semifinals (game Lithuania Spain not over at this moment). Russia failed when it was the most important and they will continue with Classification Games from 5-8 place.

Argentina: Andrea Boquete Manna 18+10 boards, Agostina Burani 12+9 boards, Debora Gonzalez 11
Russia: Anastasia Logunova 14+11 boards, Tatiana Petrushina 13+7 boards

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AUSTRALIA - Women

See the Opals play! - by Eurobasket News
Olympic Silver medallists Australian Opals will take on China and New Zealand in August and September.

The Opals will play China, who finished fourth in Beijing, in Canberra, Geelong and Dandenong on August 11, 17 and 21 respectively.

The series forms part of Australias preparation for the 2009 FIBA Oceania Championship against New Zealand on August 31 (Wellington, NZ) and September 2 (Canberra), with the winner qualifying for the 2010 FIBA World Championship for women.

It also provides the Opals with an opportunity to level the ledger with world number six China, who defeated Australia 2-1 in a three game series in China in May.

China is a world class basketball playing nation and we wanted some tough matches before the Oceania Championship, so were very happy to have secured these games, Opals Head Coach Carrie Graf said.

Weve toured China and Europe this year so it will be great to play in Australia and hopefully the Aussie public will come out and get behind the Opals.

DONT MISS OUT BUY YOUR TICKETS NOW

Aug 11: Australia v China, 7.00pm at AIS Arena, Canberra - Buy Tickets

Aug 17: Australia v China, 7.30pm at Geelong Basketball Stadium Buy Tickets

Aug 21: Australia v China, 7.00pm at Dandenong Stadium Tickets from Dandenong Stadium

September 2: Australia v New Zealand FIBA Oceania Championship, 7.00pm at AIS Arena, Canberra

Courtesy of www.wnbl.com.au

U19 Canada shocks undefeated U19 Australia in the Quarterfinals - by Eurobasket News
World Championships U19: AUSTRALIA - CANADA 49-50

Australia is eliminated in the Quarterfinals of U19 World Championship in Bangkok. The Gems , who had perfect 6-0 record so far and totally dominated against most of their rivals, failed in the first elimination game. The Canadians did impressive job at the defensive end making a big surprise in this low-scoring match. Natalie C. Achonwa (188-F-92) was a key player in Team Canada draining 16 points. Actually she was the only one with double-digits in scoring. Kayla Alexander (195-F/C-91) followed with 8 pts and 15 boards. On the other side, Elizabeth Folake Cambage (203-C-91) was the only one in a game mood for the Gems netting 26 points and pulling down 10 boards. All other players in Australia had less than 7 pts.
Opening ten minutes were totally leveled, 15-15. Canada improved after that stopping the Gems on just 11 more points until the half time. On the other side they scored 15 for 26-29 lead. Third quarter was extremely low-scoring one as Canada won it 9-11. Anyway, despite minus 5 Australia still was in. During the last ten minutes both squads continued with missing the shots as game pressure was higher and higher. At the end, the Canadians were more concentrated grabbing this fantastic victory. They will take on the defending champions USA in the Semifinals tomorrow. Australia transferred to Classification Games from 5-8 place. Their first rival will be France.
Australia: Elizabeth Folake Cambage 26+10 boards
Canada: Natalie C. Achonwa 16, Kayla Alexander 8+15 boards

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BELARUS - Women

Spain overwhelm Belarus in Naples - by Eurobasket News
Spain U16 - Belarus U16 83:38

Spanish U16 team posted the second consecutive win at the European Championship in Italy. They chopped up Belarus opponents in Group B action. Spain improved at 2-0 record on top of the pool. Belarus slipped at 0-2 record.
It was all over for Belarus after ten minutes of the game. Spain got to an aggressive start and ensured a 22:9 lead at the first break. Spain opened the second period with 9 points in a row to stretch the margin to as many as 22 points. Spain limited Belarus to just 6 points in the second quarter to build a 45:15 advantage at halftime. Spain cruised in the third quarter piling up a 37-point lead with ten minutes remaining. Belarus never threatened their opponents as the Spanish team coasted to the victory.
Itziar Llobet (177-G-93) knocked down 19 points to pace Spain. Inmaculada Zanoguera (177-G-93) and Silvia Marcelo (188-C-93) added 10 points each in the winning case. Maryna Ivashchanka (188-C-93) responded with 19 points for Belarus. Tatsiana Dudareva (181-G-93) had 4 points in the loss.

Spain U16: Itziar Llobet 19, Inmaculada Zanoguera 10, Silvia Marcelo 10
Belarus U16: Maryna Ivashchanka 19, Tatsiana Dudareva 4

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BELGIUM - Women

Julie Vanloo paces Belgium past Finland in Naples - by Eurobasket News
Belgium U16 - Finland U16 73:64
Belgian U16 team recorded the first win at the European Championship. They overcame Finnish opponents in Naples to climb at 1-1 record in Group B. Finland slipped at 1-1 in the third position in the pool. Julie Vanloo (174-G-93) poured in 28 points to top-score for Belgium.
The teams exchanged baskets throughout the first frame and completed the opening quarter tied at 17. Belgium triggered an 18:0 run in the second frame to gain a 35:18 advantage. Julie Vanloo secured a 39:20 lead at halftime. Emma Meesseman (188-C-93) scored quick six points early in the third period to boost the margin to 24 points. Finland could not recover and trailed by 21 points at the final break. Belgium was never threatened in the final frame and coasted to the victory at the end.
Emma Meesseman scored 16 points and grabbed 9 rebounds for Belgium. Lynn Delvaux (182-F-93) knocked down 12 points in the win. Janniina Koivunen (184-C-93) responded with 19 points for Finland. Anette Juvonen (171-G-93) had 13 points and 7 boards in the loss.

Belgium U16: Julie Vanloo 28, Emma Meesseman 16, Lynn Delvaux 12
Finland U16: Janniina Koivunen 19, Anette Juvonen 13

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BOSNIA - Women

Denmark post first win in Tallinn - by Eurobasket News
Denmark U16 - Bosnia and Herzegovina U16 79:49

Denmark opened their U16 European Championship campaign with victory. They bruised Bosnia and Herzegovina in Group C today. Bosnia and Herzegovina slipped at 1-1 record after the defeat. Anna Seilund (172-G-93) was pivotal for Denmark with 21 points.
Denmark got to a solid start to the game. They ensured a 16:7 lead less than six minutes into the encounter. Bosnia and Herzegovina never recovered as Denmark posted a 20:9 advantage at the first break. Anna Seilund, Julie Ravn (173-G-93) and Hansen stretched the lead to 16 points midway through the second frame. Soon Anna Seilund opened up a 20-point buffer as the Danish team continued to roll confidently. Bosnia and Herzegovina had little to propose in the third quarter as Denmark reeled off to a 25-point advantage with ten minutes remaining. Hartvich, Julie Ravn and Anna Seilund lifted Denmark to a comfortable win in the fourth quarter.
Maria Jespersen (177-F-94) produced 19 points and 13 boards for Denmark. Julie Ravn added 9 points in the winning effort. Krstina Surlan (179-F/G-93) responded with 11 points for Bosnia and Herzegovina. Miljana Dzombeta (178-G-94) banked 10 points and 6 assists in the loss.

Denmark U16: Anna Seilund 21, Maria Jespersen 19+13 boards, Julie Ravn 9
Bosnia and Herzegovina U16: Krstina Surlan 11, Miljana Dzombeta 10

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BRAZIL - Women

U19 Brazil too strong for U19 Japan in Bangkok - by Eurobasket News
World Championships U19: BRAZIL - JAPAN 62-56

Brazil celebrated decent 62-56 win against Japan staying in race for position No.9. Tatiane Pacheco Nacimiento (180-G/F-90) once again was the best player in her team collecting 20 points and 5 rebounds. Leila Zabani (180-G/F-91) had 14 pts and 6 boards, while Monica Da Silva Nascimento (189-F/C-91) registered double-double, 11 points and 15 boards. In the loosing squad, Yuka Mamiya (-90) had 18 points and 14 boards.
The Japanese had impressive first quarter. Yuka Mamiya was on fire pacing her team to 22 points in this period. On the other side, the Brazilians scored 14, but that was a clear signal for them to wake up. That happened in the second frame, but just at the defensive end (12-11). That was not enough for any better than minus 7 at the break. Totally different picture on the court was seen in the second frame. Tatiane Pacheco Nacimiento was almost unstoppable and together with Leila Zabani and Monica Da Silva Nascimento helped Brazil to make a turn at the beginning of the last period. Until the end they stopped Japan on just 9 points, scoring 16 on the other side for the final 62-56 win. In the battle for ninth place Brazil will meet Czech Republic. Japan will take on China for position No.11.

Brazil: Tatiane Pacheco Nacimiento 20+5 boards, Leila Zabani 14+6 boards, Monica Da Silva Nascimento 11+15 boards
Japan: Yuka Mamiya 18+14 boards

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BULGARIA - Women

Slovenia top Bulgaria for second straight win in Tallinn - by Eurobasket News
Slovenia U16 - Bulgaria U16 49:37

Slovenia grabbed the second consecutive win at the U16 European Championship in Division B. They overcame Bulgaria in a low-scoring battle in Tallinn today to improve at 2-0 record on top of Group C. Bulgaria in the meantime suffered the second straight defeat and fell at 0-2 record.
Slovenia opened the game with eight points in a row to jump in front. Bulgaria cut the deficit but still trailed by 5 points at the first intermission 12:17. Slovenia stiffened their defense in the second quarter limiting Bulgaria to just 7 points. Slovenia rushed to a 13-point advantage at halftime. A Damir Grgic team scored just 7 points in the third quarter but still managed to maintain the leading margin heading into the final stanza ahead by 9 points. But Slovenia opened the fourth period with 10:2 run to clear off for good in this one.
Rebeka Abramovic (170-G-93) knocked down 13 points to lead Slovenia. Tina Kercmar (178-F-94) added 8 points and 8 steals in the victory. Hristina Tyutyundzhieva (188-C-93) had 10 points and 10 rebounds for Bulgaria. Yana Kozhuharova (183-C-93) had 8 points in the losing effort. Bulgaria suffered 36 turnovers and shot just 33% from the field in defeat.

Slovenia U16: Rebeka Abramovic 13, Tina Kercmar 8, Nadezhda Spasova (182-C-93) 6
Bulgaria U16: Hristina Tyutyundzhieva 10+10 boards, Yana Kozhuharova 8

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CANADA - Women

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CHINA - Women

Czech Republic celebrates against China in Bangkok 76-70 - by Eurobasket News
World Championships U19: CZECH REPUBLIC - CHINA 76-70

Czech Republic defeated China and it will continue battle for the 9th place on FIBA U19 World Championship in Bangkok. On the other side, China will try to end as No.11. Katerina Bartonova (171-G-90) shined for the winners collecting 16 points, 5 assists and 4 rebounds (bad shot percentage). Alena Hanusova (187-C-91) was behind her with 15 points and 13 rebounds, while Renata Brezinova (189-C-90) helped with 14 pts and 5 rebs. Zheng Bowen (-90) scored 16 points and pulled down 7 boards for the Chinese. Wen Lu (188-F-90) ended with double-double, 13 pts and 12 rebs.
Everything started good for China today. After 10 minutes of the game the Chinese made nice 18-26 lead. Czech Republic struggled at the defensive end, but they drastically improved in the second stanza. They stopped China on 13 points grabbing 41-39 lead at the half time. However, China did not give up. They appeared after the breather with strong willingness to fight, what resulted with turn - plus 5 before the last 10 minutes. Katerina Bartonova were the best when it was most important smashing China in the last quarter 22-11 and they will meet Brazil in the battle for ninth place. China will take on Japan in the game for position No.11.

Czech Republic: Katerina Bartonova 16+5 assists+5 boards, Alena Hanusova 15+13 boards, Renata Brezinova 14+5 boards
China: Zheng Bowen 16+7 boards, Wen Lu 13+12 boards

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CROATIA - Women

Croatia reached the second straight victory at the U16 European Championship in Division B - by Eurobasket News
Montenegro U16-Croatia U16 50:80

Croatia reached the second straight victory at the U16 European Championship in Division B. After the victory in all the quarters the team overcame Montenegro 80:50.
Croatia scored the first four points in the game and extended their lead to 10:2. Sanja Kuzelj (183-C-93) helped Montenegro to stay alive at 16:8, while Milosev brought 19:12. Blazevic made a lay-up for 23:12 at the end of the first period. Croatia kept the opponents scoreless in the first 5 minutes of the second period and increased to 34:12. After 5 minutes of silence Dobrovic scored for 34:14 and Ana Turcinovic (187-C-93) made 36:18. Majstorovic sent the teams to the lockers for 43:18. The game became more interesting in the second half as Montenegro started to play offensively. The latter scored 17 points in the third period although allowed Croatia to post 21. Maja Puljic (176-F-93) made a lay-up at the end of the frame for 64:35. Dukic brought her team 72:39 and Dara Marjanovic (178-G-94) reduced to 78:46. Grnovic posted the last two for the final score.
Maja Puljic and Blazevic top-scored for the winners with 13 points each. Ana-Marija Begic (188-C-94) collected 10 points and 13 boards, while Andrijana Cvitkovic (186-C-94) had 10. Ana Turcinovic finished the game with 15 points and 14 caroms, while Sanja Kuzelj netted 13 and Dara Marjanovic scored 11.
In another game of the group Slovak Republic recorded another victory at the U16 European Championship in Division B. The team improved to 2-0 record after the victory over Ireland 83:55.

Montenegro U16: Ana Turcinovic 15+14 rebs, Sanja Kuzelj 13, Dara Marjanovic 11
Croatia U16: Maja Puljic 13, Blazevic 13, Ana-Marija Begic 10+13 rebs, Andrijana Cvitkovic 10

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CZECH REPUBLIC - Women

Czech Republic waste lead, lose to Russia - by Eurobasket News
Czech Republic U16 - Russia U16 40:65

Russia denied an 11-point deficit after the opening frame to outscore Czech Republic at the U16 European Championship. Russia thus kept their record spotless at 2-0. Czech Republic came closer to abyss with the second consecutive defeat in Group C.
Czech Republic looked solid in the opening frame. When Kamila Selucka (187-C-93) scored 5 points in a row Czech Republic earned a 19:6 advantage. The Czech team grabbed a 20:9 lead at the first break. Galina Kiseleva (182-F-93) and Mariya-Margarita Davydova (189-F/C-93) helped Russia cut the margin at 5 points midway through the second period however Czech Republic ensured a 29:21 advantage at halftime.
Russia turned the tables at the beginning of the third quarter. They unloaded 16 points in a row to secure a 37:29 lead in the third quarter. Russia rolled to a 43:37 advantage at three-quarter time. Galina Kiseleva netted 5 straight points to open up a double-digit lead early in the final quarter. Czech Republic never recovered and had to surrender at the end.
Ksenia Tikhonenko (190-C-93) had 13 points and 7 rebounds, while Mariya-Margarita Davydova added 13 points and 9 rebounds for Russia. Galina Kiseleva nailed 12 points in the victory. Tereza Vyoralova (175-G-94) responded with 13 points for Czech Republic. Kamila Selucka had 8 points in defeat.

Czech Republic U16: Tereza Vyoralova 13, Kamila Selucka 8
Russia U16: Ksenia Tikhonenko 13, Mariya-Margarita Davydova 13, Galina Kiseleva 12

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DENMARK - Women

Danish U16 National Team 2009 - by Sahereh

Seilund

Jespersen

Hansen

Sturlason

Gilling

4 Sarah Amalou (166-G-93)
5 Julie Ravn (173-G-93)
6 Natascha Hartvich (171-G-94)
7 Ida Klussmann (168-G-93)
8 Anna Seilund (172-G-93)
9 Emilie Klint (169-G-93)
10 Maria Jespersen (177-F-94)
11 Elisabeth Hansen (174-G-93)
12 Astrid Sturlason (175-F-93)
13 Marie Blyme (173-F-93)
14 Mathilde Gilling (186-F-93)
15 Mathilde Fogelstrom (184-F-93)
Head Coach: Anja Andersen

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ESTONIA - Women

Estonia U16 needed overtime to open the European Championship - by Eurobasket News
Estonia U16-Romania U16 69:65 OT

Estonia U16 opened their European Championship today and beat Romania 69:65. For Romania it was the second game and the first loss as last night the team overcame Israel.
Romania started with 18-8 and added 15-13 in the second period. Sonia Ursu (177-F-93) made a jump shot for 33:21 after the first two quarters. Estonia cut it to 46:36 after three quarters and exploded with 23-13 in the last frame.Piibur made the last jump shot in the fourth period to send the teams to the extra time with the game tied at 59:59. Laurimaa opened overtime for 61:59, while Baluta replied for 61:61. Piibur gave the Baltic side 63:61 and he added another points from the free throw. Liis Kullamaa (165-G-94) gave more confidence at 67:61 with less than two minutes in the game. Ardelean reduced to 67:63 and he also made a free throw for 67:64. Baluta brought 67:65 but Katlin Saat (189-C-93) gave Estonia the victory.
In another game of the group Latvia posted the second consecutive win at the U16 European Championship in Division B. They toppled Israel in preliminary Group B to top the pool at 2-0 record. Israel slipped at 0-2 record after the loss.

Estonia U16: Liis Kullamaa 22, Janeli Lilleallik (168-G-94) 13, Katlin Saat 10
Romania U16: Sonia Ursu 24, Georgiana Plavitu (171-G-93) 11, Arina Craciun (191-C-93) 10+11 rebs

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EUROPEAN CHAMPIONSHIPS U16 - Women

Div B. - by Eurobasket

Points Per Game

Sonia URSU
(177-F-93)
Avg: 26

1. Ursu, ROM	26.0
2. Kullamaa, EST	22.0
3. Hetto, LUX	21.0
4. Seilund, DEN	21.0
5. Jespersen, DEN	19.0
6. Surlan, BIH	16.5
7. Blazevic, CRO	16.0
8. Bradnanska, SVK	16.0
9. Gaskins, ENG	16.0
10. Dukate, L.	15.5

Rebounds Per Game

Sharon LAMMERINK
(189-C-93)
Avg: 16

1. Lammerink, NED	16.0
2. Uro-Nile, UKR	15.0
3. Turcinovic, MNT	14.0
4. Jespersen, DEN	13.0
5. Lagzdina, LAT	13.0
6. Craciun, ROM	12.5
7. Hatch, SUI	12.0
8. Ursu, ROM	12.0
9. Dobrovic, MNT	11.0
10. Kuzmane, L.	10.5

Assists Per Game

Miljana DZOMBETA
(178-G-94)
Avg: 6.5

1. Dzombeta, BIH	6.5
2. Vucetic, MNT	6.0
3. Lilleallik, EST	4.0
4. McDerment, ENG	4.0
5. Begic, CRO	3.5
6. Balintova, SVK	3.5
7. Kruithof, NED	3.0
8. Harper, ENG	3.0
9. Seilund, DEN	3.0
10. Hamilton, E.	3.0

Steals Per Game

Rebeka ABRAMOVIC
(170-G-93)
Avg: 7.5

1. Abramovic, SLO	7.5
2. Dzombeta, BIH	7.0
3. Ursu, ROM	7.0
4. Puljic, CRO	6.0
5. Kullamaa, EST	6.0
6. Kercmar, SLO	5.0
7. Pocksteiner, AUT	5.0
8. Pinto, POR	5.0
9. Surlan, BIH	5.0
10. Bridina, L.	4.5

Blocks Per Game

Hristina TYUTYUNDZHIEVA
(188-C-93)
Avg: 4.5

1. Tyutyundzhie., BUL	4.5
2. Hatch, SUI	4.0
3. Baluta, ROM	3.0
4. Gaskins, ENG	2.0
5. Hetto, LUX	2.0
6. Tikvic, CRO	2.0
7. Craciun, ROM	2.0
8. Priedniece, LAT	2.0
9. Milic, BIH	1.5
10. Koch, I.	1.5

Day: 2 (Preliminary Round) - by Eurobasket News

Group A

Sweden - Serbia 39-60
Serbian U16 National team left the opening loss to Turkey behind to register the initial success at the European Championship in Naples. They thumped Swedish counterparts today to climb at 1-1 record in Group A. Sweden in the meantime slipped at 0-2 record. Milica Toskovic came up with 13 points for Serbia. Marija Radosevic and Natasa Kovacevic (187-F-94) had 9 points each in the winning effort. Paulina Hersler responded with 11 points and 10 rebounds for Sweden. Rebecka Dahlin netted 6 points in the loss.

Turkey - Italy 54-56
Italy confirmed their highest ambitions for the home U16 European Championship today. They recorded the second win in a row to take the lead in Group A. Turkey in the meantime slipped at 1-1 record. Alessandra Formica (189-F/C-93) came up with 11 points to pace Italy. Stella Panella added 9 points and 8 rebounds, while Marta Masoni and Francesca Dotto had 7 points in the win. Ayse Cora answered with 15 points for Turkey. Olcay Cakir had 10 points in defeat.

Group B

Belarus - Spain 38-83
Spanish U16 team posted the second consecutive win at the European Championship in Italy. They chopped up Belarus opponents in Group B action. Spain improved at 2-0 record on top of the pool. Belarus slipped at 0-2 record. Itziar Llobet (177-G-93) knocked down 19 points to pace Spain. Inmaculada Zanoguera and Silvia Marcelo added 10 points each in the winning case. Maryna Ivashchanka responded with 19 points for Belarus. Tatsiana Dudareva had 4 points in the loss.

Belgium - Finland 73-64
Belgian U16 team recorded the first win at the European Championship. They overcame Finnish opponents in Naples to climb at 1-1 record in Group B. Finland slipped at 1-1 in the third position in the pool. Julie Vanloo (174-G-93) poured in 28 points to top-score for Belgium. Emma Meesseman scored 16 points and grabbed 9 rebounds for Belgium. Lynn Delvaux knocked down 12 points in the win. Janniina Koivunen (184-C-93) responded with 19 points for Finland. Anette Juvonen had 13 points and 7 boards in the loss.

Group C

Russia - Czech Republic 65-40
Russia denied an 11-point deficit after the opening frame to outscore Czech Republic at the U16 European Championship. Russia thus kept their record spotless at 2-0. Czech Republic came closer to abyss with the second consecutive defeat in Group C. Ksenia Tikhonenko (190-C-93) had 13 points and 7 rebounds, while Mariya-Margarita Davydova added 13 points and 9 rebounds for Russia. Galina Kiseleva nailed 12 points in the victory. Tereza Vyoralova responded with 13 points for Czech Republic. Kamila Selucka had 8 points in defeat.

Hungary - Greece 50-58
Greek U16 team posted the first win in Naples. They held off Hungary in overtime to bounce back after the opening loss at the European championship. Artemis Spanou tallied 19 points and 12 boards as Greece caught up with Hungary in preliminary Group C ladder.Elisavet Politopoulou scored 15 points for Greece. Anastasia Slouka added 10 points in the victory. Brigitta Barta (182-C-93) answered with 20 points and 12 boards for Hungary. Amadea Szamosi had 8 points and 11 caroms in the defeat.

Group D

Poland - France 39-96
France reached 2-0 in Group D of the U16 European Championship in Division A. The French side smashed Poland 96:39 in Day 2 to stay undefeated. Esther Moisan Niamke top-scored for the winners with 17 points. Sabrine Bouzenna (169-G-93) nailed 15 and Sara Chevaugeon added 11. Magdalena Koperwas ended up with 17 points in the losing effort, while Kaja Pabisiak notched 7. Poland suffered their first loss and dropped at 1-1.

Lithuania - Germany 68-65
Lithuania clinched the opening win at the U16 European Championship. They came from behind to stun Germany for 1-1 record in preliminary Group D. Germany suffered the second straight loss at the tournament. Vita Zilinskaite (190-C-93) tallied 16 points and 14 rebounds for Lithuania. Monika Aleksaite added 16 points and 8 boards in the winning effort. Sophie Eder responded with 23 points for Germany. Carla Bellscheidt had 9 points in the loss.

Standings - Div.B - by Eurobasket News

Standings Div.B

Group A
1. Croatia		2-0
2. Slovakia		2-0
3. Australia		0-0
4. Monteneg.		0-1
5. Ireland		0-2
Group B
1. Latvia		2-0
2. Estonia		1-0
3. Romania		1-1
4. Switzerl.		0-1
5. Israel		0-2
Group C
1. Slovenia		2-0
2. Denmark		1-0
3. Bosnia		1-1
4. Luxembourg.		0-1
5. Bulgaria		0-2
Group D
1. U.Kingdom		1-0
2. Holland		1-0
3. Portugal		0-1
4. Ukraine		0-1

Div. B Day: 2 (Preliminary Round) - by Eurobasket News

Group A

Montenegro - Croatia 50-80
Croatia reached the second straight victory at the U16 European Championship in Division B. After the victory in all the quarters the team overcame Montenegro 80:50. Maja Puljic (176-F-93) and Blazevic top-scored for the winners with 13 points each. Begic collected 10 points and 13 boards, while Cvitkovic had 10. Turcinovic finished the game with 15 points and 14 caroms, while Kuzelj netted 13 and Marjanovic scored 11.

Ireland - Slovakia 55-83
Slovak Republic recorded another victory at the U16 European Championship in Division B. The team improved to 2-0 record after the victory over Ireland 83:55. Noema Bradnanska (174-F-93) paced all the winners with 14 points. Balintova netted 13, while Oroszova had 12 points and 11 boards. O'Shea delivered 21 in defeat and Newell scored 11.

Group B

Estonia - Romania 69-65
Estonia U16 opened their European Championship today and beat Romania 69:65. For Romania it was the second game and the first loss as last night the team overcame Israel. Birgit Piibur (160-G-94) made the last jump shot in the fourth period to send the teams to the extra time with the game tied at 59:59. Laurimaa opened overtime for 61:59, while Baluta replied for 61:61. Birgit Piibur gave the Baltic side 63:61 and he added another points from the free throw. Kullamaa gave more confidence at 67:61 with less than two minutes in the game. Ardelean reduced to 67:63 and he also made a free throw for 67:64. Baluta brought 67:65 but Saat gave Estonia the victory.

Israel - Latvia 56-77
Latvia posted the second consecutive win at the U16 European Championship in Division B. They toppled Israel in preliminary Group B to top the pool at 2-0 record. Israel slipped at 0-2 record after the loss. Sabine Dukate (176-F-93) produced 16 points to lead Latvia. Daiga Kuzmane added 14 points and 13 boards, while Guna Lagzdina had 13 points and 18 boards in the winning effort. Keren Mozes replied with 13 points and 7 boards for Israel. Aviv Casspi and Nitzan Koch netted 10 points each in defeat.

Group C

Denmark - Bosnia 79-49
Denmark opened their U16 European Championship campaign with victory. They bruised Bosnia and Herzegovina in Group C today. Bosnia and Herzegovina slipped at 1-1 record after the defeat. Anna Seilund (172-G-93) was pivotal for Denmark with 21 points. Maria Jespersen produced 19 points and 13 boards for Denmark. Julie Ravn added 9 points in the winning effort. Krstina Surlan responded with 11 points for Bosnia and Herzegovina. Miljana Dzombeta banked 10 points and 6 assists in the loss.

Bulgaria - Slovenia 37-49
Slovenia grabbed the second consecutive win at the U16 European Championship in Division B. They overcame Bulgaria in a low-scoring battle in Tallinn today to improve at 2-0 record on top of Group C. Rebeka Abramovic knocked down 13 points to lead Slovenia. Tina Kercmar (178-F-94) added 8 points and 8 steals in the victory. Hristina Tyutyundzhieva had 10 points and 10 rebounds for Bulgaria. Yana Kozhuharova had 8 points in the losing effort. Bulgaria suffered 36 turnovers and shot just 33% from the field in defeat.

W-Standings - Div.A

Standings

Group A
1. Italy		2-0
2. Serbia		1-1
3. Turkey		1-1
4. Sweden		0-2
Group B
1. Spain		2-0
2. Finland		1-1
3. Belgium		1-1
4. Belarus		0-2
Group C
1. Russia		2-0
2. Greece		1-1
3. Hungary		1-1
4. Czech Repu.		0-2
Group D
1. France		2-0
2. Lithuania		1-1
3. Poland		1-1
4. Germany		0-2

Stats Leaders W - Group A

Points Per Game

Brigitta BARTA
(182-C-93)
Avg: 23

1. Barta, HUN	23.0
2. Eder, GER	21.5
3. Ivashchanka, BLR	20.5
4. Vanloo, BEL	19.0
5. Spanou, GRE	17.0
6. Cakir, TUR	15.0
7. Llobet, ESP	14.0
8. Cora, TUR	13.5
9. Aleksaite, LTU	13.5
10. Koivunen, F.	13.5

Rebounds Per Game

Artemis SPANOU
(185-F-93)
Avg: 12

1. Spanou, GRE	12.0
2. Tikhonenko, RUS	11.0
3. Barta, HUN	10.5
4. Meesseman, BEL	10.5
5. Vesela, CZE	9.5
6. Szamosi, HUN	9.0
7. Davydova, RUS	9.0
8. Marcelo, ESP	8.5
9. Cakir, TUR	8.5
10. Katona, H.	8.5

Assists Per Game

Olcay CAKIR
(180-G-93)
Avg: 3.5

1. Cakir, TUR	3.5
2. Jackevic, LTU	3.0
3. Kiseleva, RUS	3.0
4. Bradaric, GER	3.0
5. Owczarzak, POL	3.0
6. Llobet, ESP	2.5
7. De Alfredo, ESP	2.5
8. Bouzenna, FRA	2.0
9. Gustavsson, SWE	2.0
10. Kurt, S.	2.0

Steals Per Game

Olcay CAKIR
(180-G-93)
Avg: 5

1. Cakir, TUR	5.0
2. Bouzenna, FRA	3.5
3. Stanacev, SRB	3.5
4. Llobet, ESP	3.5
5. Bellscheidt, GER	3.0
6. Dahlin, SWE	3.0
7. Kovacevic, SRB	3.0
8. Epoupa, FRA	3.0
9. Froese, GER	2.5
10. Spanou, G.	2.5

Blocks Per Game

Vita ZILINSKAITE
(190-C-93)
Avg: 3.5

1. Zilinskaite, LTU	3.5
2. Formica, ITA	2.5
3. Brajkovic, SRB	2.5
4. Spanou, GRE	2.0
5. Ivashchanka, BLR	2.0
6. Wisniewska, POL	2.0
7. Barta, HUN	1.5
8. Zahui, SWE	1.5
9. Meesseman, BEL	1.5
10. Marcelo, E.	1.5

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EUROPEAN CHAMPIONSHIPS U18 - Women

Div.B Stats Leaders - by Richard

Points Per Game

Ida KROGH
(181-G/F-91)
Avg: 20.8

1. Krogh, DEN	20.8
2. Kapor, BIH	20.2
3. Baric, SLO	19.3
4. Cohen, ISR	17.7
5. Tavic, BIH	16.4
6. Nikolopoulou, GRE	15.6
7. Greinacher, GER	14.8
8. Schaake, GER	14.6
9. Correia, POR	14.1
10. Bigica, R.	14.0

Rebounds Per Game

Tjasa GORTNAR
(182-F-92)
Avg: 12.6

1. Gortnar, SLO	12.6
2. Premasunac, CRO	10.8
3. Clark, ENG	10.3
4. Greinacher, GER	10.1
5. Fazlic, BIH	8.7
6. Butter, NED	8.4
7. Chiemeka, ENG	8.3
8. Jagodic, SLO	8.0
9. Cohen, ISR	8.0
10. Kavasila, G.	7.8

Assists Per Game

Nika BARIC
(168-G-92)
Avg: 5.9

1. Baric, SLO	5.9
2. Krogh, DEN	4.8
3. Brunckhorst, GER	4.8
4. Miloglav, CRO	4.7
5. Brandao, POR	4.7
6. Tavic, BIH	4.2
7. Cohen, ISR	4.1
8. Nikolopoulou, GRE	4.0
9. Tamis, HUN	3.6
10. Cursaru, R.	3.4

Steals Per Game

Angeliki NIKOLOPOULOU
(179-G-91)
Avg: 4.2

1. Nikolopoulou, GRE	4.2
2. Cohen, ISR	4.1
3. Ursu, ROM	3.7
4. Margic, CRO	3.0
5. Miloglav, CRO	3.0
6. Tavic, BIH	2.8
7. Ben Barak, ISR	2.7
8. Bigica, ROM	2.7
9. Dokkedal, DEN	2.6
10. Austgulen, N.	2.4

Blocks Per Game

Ella CLARK
(180-F-92)
Avg: 4.7

1. Clark, ENG	4.7
2. Stoiedin, ROM	2.3
3. Hofstraat, NED	2.2
4. Greinacher, GER	1.7
5. Dokkedal, DEN	1.5
6. Cohen, ISR	1.4
7. Austgulen, NOR	1.4
8. Gutin, ISR	1.4
9. Saarinen, FIN	1.2
10. Hamsic, B.	1.1

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FINLAND - Women

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FRANCE - Women

U19 USA beats U19 France, advances to Semifinals in Bangkok - by Eurobasket News
World Championships U19: FRANCE - USA 75-88

The defending champion reached Semifinals in style. After 5-1 in the first two stages of FIBA U19 World Championship in Bangkok, the Team USA outplayed France 88-75. France managed to stay close until the last 15 minutes, when USA showed why their are still main candidates for the title. Nnemkadi Ogwumike (188-F-90) stepped up for the winners with 16 points and 9 rebounds. Skylar Diggins (175-G-90) also shined with 16, while Kelsey Bone (196-C-91) added 4 points less. In Team France, Laurie Datchy (175-G/F-90) top-scored with 17 points.
France surprised USA at the very beginning. Laurie Datchy and her teammates opened the game strongly creating 22-16 lead in the first quarter. However, that was a sign for USA players to wake up, what they immediately did. Mostly owing to Nnemkadi Ogwumike and Skylar Diggins, USA ended second period with plus 6 for 36-36 tie at the half time. Crucial period today was third one. Two minutes after the breather USA started with making the run, which ended with 9-23. After it was clear that this game is over for France and the defending champion is looking forward to next rival. That will be Canada and the winner will advance to Big Final. On the other side, France continues in Classification Games from 5-8 place. Their first rival will be Australia.

France: Laurie Datchy 17
USA: Nnemkadi Ogwumike 16+9 boards, Skylar Diggins 16, Kelsey Bone 12

France U16 demolish the Polish defense - by Eurobasket News
Poland U16-France U16 39:96

France reached 2-0 in Group D of the U16 European Championship in Division A. The French side smashed Poland 96:39 in Day 2 to stay undefeated.
France started with 36:6 in the first period to shock the opponents. Seven triples in the period might have suggested poor perimeter defense from Poland but far from it, the French moved the ball superbly well to get open looks while the forwards persistently kicked the ball out to the shooters. Poland managed to score 13 points in the second frame, however allowed the favorites to post 17. Sabrine Bouzenna (169-G-93) made a jump shot for 53:19 in the end of the first half. Magdalena Koperwas (177-G-93) scored the first four points for Poland in the beginning of the third quarter and Kaja Pabisiak (172-G-93) reduced to 65:25. Jaworska nailed three for 80:31 as the board showed the end of thirty minutes. France proved the difference also in the last frame as they cruised past Poland 16-8. Esther Moisan Niamke (163-G-93) made the final 96:39 score as her team jumped to 2-0.
Esther Moisan Niamke top-scored for the winners with 17 points. Sabrine Bouzenna nailed 15 and Sara Chevaugeon (177-G-93) added 11. Magdalena Koperwas ended up with 17 points in the losing effort, while Kaja Pabisiak notched 7. Poland suffered their first loss and dropped at 1-1.

Poland U16: Magdalena Koperwas 17, Kaja Pabisiak 7
France U16: Esther Moisan Niamke 17, Sabrine Bouzenna 15, Sara Chevaugeon 11

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GERMANY - Women

Vita Zilinskaite ensures Lithuania win over Germany - by Eurobasket News
Lithuania U16 - Germany U16 68:65
Lithuania clinched the opening win at the U16 European Championship. They came from behind to stun Germany for 1-1 record in preliminary Group D. Germany suffered the second straight loss at the tournament. Lithuania trailed by as many as 12 point at halftime but denied the deficit in the second half. Vita Zilinskaite (190-C-93) knocked down 6 points in the final three minutes of the game to pull Lithuania to the victory.
Germany started the game with six points in a row. They rallied to a 24:19 advantage at the first intermission. Christen and Carla Bellscheidt (181-F-94) netted 4 points to boost the margin to 9 points. The advantage grew at 13 points late in the half. Lithuania woke up in the second half. They unloaded 11 points in a row to narrow the margin to a single point. Germany stayed calm and headed into the fourth frame ahead by 5 points. Germany were still up by 3 points with less then three minutes to go before Vita Zilinskaite poured in 6 points to eke out the victory for Lithuania.
Vita Zilinskaite tallied 16 points and 14 rebounds for Lithuania. Monika Aleksaite (178-F-93) added 16 points and 8 boards in the winning effort. Sophie Eder (178-F-93) responded with 23 points for Germany. Carla Bellscheidt had 9 points in the loss.

Lithuania U16: Vita Zilinskaite 16+14 boards, Monika Aleksaite 16, Ina Jackevic (168-G-93) 11
Germany U16: Sophie Eder 23, Carla Bellscheidt 9

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GREECE - Women

Greece draw first blood in Naples - by Eurobasket News
Greece U16 - Hungary U16 58:50 (OT)
Greek U16 team posted the first win in Naples. They held off Hungary in overtime to bounce back after the opening loss at the European championship. Artemis Spanou (185-F-93) tallied 19 points and 12 boards as Greece caught up with Hungary in preliminary Group C ladder.
Hungary marched into the game scoring 6 points in a row. They soon opened up double-digit lead and eased to an 18:9 lead at the first break. Amadea Szamosi (189-C-94) and Brigitta Barta (182-C-93) gave Hungary an 11-point cushion early in the second quarter. Foldi then followed with 3 points in a row stretching the advantage even further. Greece reacted with 10 unanswered points to spark the intrigue. They cut the deficit to a single point at halftime 25:26. Artemis Spanou and Grigoria Pateraki (185-F-93) pulled Greece in front at the start of the third quarter. The lead changed hands for several times throughout the period before Greece secured a 39:37 advantage with one quarter remaining. Artemis Spanou and Anastasia Slouka (182-G-93) increased the lead to 6 points early in the fourth term. But Hungary never surrendered as they trimmed the distance. Csutoras drained a saving three-pointer with 5 seconds left in regulation forcing overtime. Kantara and Elisavet Politopoulou (164-G-93) tipped off the extra frame with 6 points in a row as Greece cleared off for good in this one.
Elisavet Politopoulou scored 15 points for Greece. Anastasia Slouka added 10 points in the victory. Brigitta Barta answered with 20 points and 12 boards for Hungary. Amadea Szamosi had 8 points and 11 caroms in the defeat.

Greece U16: Artemis Spanou 19+12 boards, Elisavet Politopoulou 15, Anastasia Slouka 10
Hungary U16: Brigitta Barta 20+12 boards, Amadea Szamosi 8+11 boards

Greek U16 National Team 2009 - by Sahereh

Kantara

Slouka

Spanou

Chatzigiakoumi

Pateraki

4 Dimitra Kampouraki (162-G-93) of Ano Liosa
5 Maria Sartzetaki (170-G-93)
6 Elisavet Politopoulou (164-G-93)
7 Georgia Kantara (176-G-93) of AE Pylaia
8 Evlampia Zacharaki (184-F-93)
10 Anastasia Slouka (182-G-93) of Megas Aleksandros
11 Georgia Spiropoulou (190-C-94)
12 Artemis Spanou (185-F-93) of Panionios Athens
13 Anthoula Chatzigiakoumi (187-C-93) of Ravenna Esperides / Glyfada
14 Grigoria Pateraki (185-F-93) of Ano Liosa
15 Maria Kormpou (192-C-93)

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GUATEMALA - Women

Mexico trashes Guatemala on U16 Centrobasket - by Eurobasket News
Mexico - Guatemala 79-21

Mexico demonstrated its power against Guatemala. The Guatemalans faced with tiny 54-57 defeat against Dominican Republic in Day 1, but yesterday there were totally devastated. With this victory Mexicans jumped to 2-0 and they are currently in top of U16 Centrobasket standings (Day 2). Guatemala is on the bottom at this moment with 0-2. Lucia Sanchez and Narda Valeria Salceda top-scored for the hosts with 15 points each.
Mexico was way better team from the early beginning. After just ten minutes of the game it already was 25-6. That was a clear sign what will happen until the end. Guatemala was not able to score more than 6 points for the quarter yesterday. In the second they once again had 6, in third poor 4 and in the last period they had 5 points. On the other side, Mexico continued with good performance. In the second period Mexico had 14, third 18 and last 22 points.
Today at the U16 Centrobasket, Mexico will meet Dominican Rebpulic. That will be a chance for 3-0 for the hosts. Guatemala will play against also winless Puerto Rico (0-1).

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HUNGARY - Women

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IRELAND - Women

Slovak Republic U16 recorded another victory - by Eurobasket News
Ireland U16-Slovak Republic U16 55:83

Slovak Republic recorded another victory at the U16 European Championship in Division B. The team improved to 2-0 record after the victory over Ireland 83:55.

The teams exchanged the lead only two times in the first quarter as Slovak Republic took 12:2 lead. Draganovska made the score 20:5 and Barry brought 23:13 after the first quarter. Newell reduced to 30:24 and Oroszova made again plus 10, 34:24. Balintova sent the teams to the lockers for 45:32. The winners started to increase the lead in the third period and produced 22-13 in it. Slamova posted for 67:45 after three quarters. Slovak Republic played also better at the end of the game and had 16-10 in the last stanza. Ivancakova made the final jump shot for the necessary victory.
Noema Bradnanska (174-F-93) paced all the winners with 14 points. Barbora Balintova (173-G-94) netted 13, while Sabina Oroszova (187-F-93) had 12 points and 11 boards. O'Shea delivered 21 in defeat and Ciara Newell (170-G-93) scored 11.
In another game of the group Croatia reached the second straight victory at the U16 European Championship in Division B. After the victory in all the quarters the team overcame Montenegro 80:50.

Ireland U16: O'Shea 21, Ciara Newell 11
Slovak Republic U16: Noema Bradnanska 14, Barbora Balintova 13, Sabina Oroszova 12+11 rebs

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ISRAEL - Women

Latvia too good for Israel in Tallinn - by Eurobasket News
Latvia U16 - Israel U16 77:56
Latvia posted the second consecutive win at the U16 European Championship in Division B. They toppled Israel in preliminary Group B to top the pool at 2-0 record. Israel slipped at 0-2 record after the loss.
Latvia unloaded 22 points in the first frame worth an 8-point lead at the first break. Sabine Dukate (176-F-93) and Epnere opened a double-digit advantage for Latvia early in the second period. Latvia maintained the lead well enough to enjoy an 11-point cushion into the major break. Sabine Dukate tipped off the second half with a basket as Latvia continued to roll. Romania stopped the bleeding midway through the third quarter. They went on an 8:0 rally to get within 7. Berga came up with important three-pointer to chill the emotions off as Latvia drove to a 60:44 advantage at three-quarter time. Israel never got close enough for a trace of hope and Latvia celebrated a confident win at the end.
Sabine Dukate produced 16 points to lead Latvia. Daiga Kuzmane (183-F-93) added 14 points and 13 boards, while Guna Lagzdina (185-C-93) had 13 points and 18 boards in the winning effort. Keren Mozes (175-F-93) replied with 13 points and 7 boards for Israel. Aviv Casspi (180-F-93) and Nitzan Koch (170-F-93) netted 10 points each in defeat.

Latvia U16: Sabine Dukate 16, Daiga Kuzmane 14+13 boards, Guna Lagzdina 13+18 boards
Israel U16: Keren Mozes 13, Aviv Casspi 10, Nitzan Koch 10

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ITALY - Women

Italy pile up scalps in Naples - by Eurobasket News
Italy U16 - Turkey U16 56:54
Italy confirmed their highest ambitions for the home U16 European Championship today. They recorded the second win in a row to take the lead in Group A. Turkey in the meantime slipped at 1-1 record.
Italy led right from the start but could not shock the Turkish outfit. The visitors gradually came back to life and eked out a 15:13 advantage after ten minutes of action. Italy reacted with an 8:0 run at the start of the second quarter regaining the lead. Mandelli, Alessandra Formica (189-F/C-93) and Stella Panella (178-F-93) stretched the margin to 11 points late in the first half. Italy arrived at halftime ahead by 10 points 30:20. Francesca Dotto (165-G-93) was the main figure for the home team at the start of the second half. She knocked down 6 points to keep Italy in charge. The gap soon increased to 14 points before Turkey showed character. They replied with 11 unanswered points to get within 5 into the final frame. Ayse Cora (175-F-93) netted 6 points in a row drawing things level at 41. Italy quickly responded with 7 consecutive points to restore a safe distance. Olcay Cakir (180-G-93) and Kavurmacioglu drained 5 points late in regulation to cut the deficit to just 2 points with 23 seconds remaining. Italy missed four free throws in the reminder of the game but Turkey failed to capitalize. Ayse Cora missed both of her attempts from the stripe to allow Italy to escape with the win.
Alessandra Formica came up with 11 points to pace Italy. Stella Panella added 9 points and 8 rebounds, while Marta Masoni (184-F-93) and Francesca Dotto had 7 points in the win. Ayse Cora answered with 15 points for Turkey. Olcay Cakir had 10 points in defeat.

Italy U16: Alessandra Formica 11, Stella Panella 9, Marta Masoni 7, Francesca Dotto 7
Turkey U16: Ayse Cora 15, Olcay Cakir 10

Italian U16 National Team 2009 - by Sahereh

Dotto

Mandelli

Masoni

Formica

Dell'Olio

4 Francesca Dotto (165-G-93) of San Martino Di Lupari
5 Stella Panella (178-F-93)
6 Caterina Dotto (165-G-93) of San Martino Di Lupari
7 Alice Mandelli (171-G-93) of Pilot Italia Biassono
8 Elettra Ferretti (175-G-93) of Kocca Napoli
9 Sara Bocchetti (175-G-93) of Kocca Napoli
10 Ashley Ravelli (177-G-93)
11 Marta Masoni (184-F-93) of Cras Taranto
12 Chiara Terenzi (190-C-93)
13 Alessandra Formica (189-F/C-93) of Lavezzini Parma
14 Veronica Dell'Olio (190-F-93)<
15 Giulia Bona (184-C-94)
Head Coach: Giovanni Lucchesi
Assistant Coach: Umberto Alliori

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JAPAN - Women

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JORDAN - Women

Sporting Egypt Clinches 7th Sueda Tourney Title - by Omar Shafaamri
In the Final Day of 7th Sueda Women Basketball Tourney , girls of Sporting Egypt Recorded a shocking win over Lebanon NT 66-64 .
The lebanese NT is preparing for the Francophonie Games VI, hosted by Lebanon between September 27 and October 6 .

The lebanese Girls Did not play as usual but even though they led the game till the final seconds .

Top Scorers :
Shatha Naser 14 pts. (Lebanon NT)
Helwa Yassin 20 pts. , Hajer Amer 19 pts (Sporting EGY)

In the same Subject , Orthodox Jordan grabbed the 3rd place after beating Al Jalaa Aleppo Syria 78-68 .

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LATVIA - Women

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LITHUANIA - Women

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MEXICO - Women

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MONTENEGRO - Women

Montenegrin U16 National Team 2009 - by Sahereh

Marjanovic

Turcinovic

Kuzelj

Vucetic

Milosev

4 Dara Marjanovic (178-G-94)
5 Milica Grnovic (180-G-93) of Buducnost Podgorica
6 Ana Turcinovic (187-C-93) of ZKK Herceg Novi
7 Jelena Velickovic (179-F-94) of KK Jedinstvo Bijelo Polje
8 Kristina Rakovic (177-G-94)
9 Sanja Kuzelj (183-C-93) of ZKK Herceg Novi
10 Aleksandra Dobrovic (184-C-93)
11 Bozica Mujovic (178-G-96)
12 Jelena Nikpaljevic (175-G-94)
13 Jelena Vucetic (178-G-93) of ZKK Herceg Novi
14 Damjana Katnic (183-F-93)
15 Milica Milosev (185-F-93) of Buducnost Podgorica
Head Coach: Mirko Baletic

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NCAA1 - Women

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POLAND - Women

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PORTUGAL - Women

Penicheiro performs like Ticha of old - by Eurobasket News
This used to be their routine, their nightly dance at Arco Arena. John Whisenant would stamp his feet and plead with his point guard to become more assertive. Ticha Penicheiro (5'11''-G-74, college: ODU) would respond with a steal here, a driving layup there. And the Monarchs would finish off the evening and their opponents with a suffocating defense that resulted in victories, division and conference titles and a WNBA championship.

That act never grew old. Only the players did.

Yet for a significant portion of a Thursday afternoon, the tango returned to Arco Arena.

There was Whiz, leading Penicheiro.

There was Penicheiro, guiding the Monarchs.

There were the Monarchs, a rhythmic ensemble late in the fourth quarter and during overtime, outlasting the San Antonio Silver Stars.

A word of caution, though, if you will. Thursday's experience most likely is fleeting. The Monarchs continue to reveal themselves as a team ravaged by injuries, immaturity and the cruelty of the calendar. The offseason will include another lottery appearance and should include a major personnel shakeup.

But Penicheiro should do what Yolanda Griffith didn't. She should keep dancing at Arco, mentoring her younger teammates and retiring in the only WNBA uniform she has ever worn.

Not yet, though. Not anytime soon if this continues.

In her most impressive effort of the season, Penicheiro, the league's all-time leader in assists and steals, directed her teammates steadily and effectively, at times even brilliantly during the deciding moments. She didn't stop Becky Hammon, who burned the Monarchs for 38 points, but she did as Whisenant asked. After resting for much of the third period, she switched onto Hammon and became aggressive and effective.

Utilizing her mobility and superior length, she challenged jumpers and bodied the smaller, maddeningly elusive Hammon into the guts of the defense. Then, as she did so often during the Monarchs' reign, she swiped rebounds and pushed the ball, energizing her teammates, spreading the floor, whipping passes to Nicole Powell in the corners and DeMya Walker underneath.

'Amazing, amazing,' Walker said afterward, shaking her head. 'That was old-school Ticha.'

Though she turns 35 in six weeks, Penicheiro (12 points, nine assists, six rebounds) appears far from calling it a career. On a team where poor conditioning was an issue under former coach Jenny Boucek, the sleek 5-foot-11, 146-pound Penicheiro who has dropped almost 30 pounds since her rookie season is a physical wonder.

She is so limber, so absurdly flexible, they should name a pretzel after her. During her pregame stretching routine, she tugs and yanks and contorts her body in ways that appear humanly impossible.

Admittedly, her body isn't what it was. The bumps and bruises linger. The recovery time is longer. And on the court, she rarely attempts her famously risky no-look passes, tempering her offensive instincts to such an extent that Whisenant can be seen muttering and grabbing his temples.

'We won a championship because of our defense,' said Penicheiro, smiling. 'When we defend like we did (late in Thursday's game), it flows into our offense, and we can be good, a better team that what we've shown.'
No argument there.

Courtesy of www.sacbee.com

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ROMANIA - Women

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RUSSIA - Women

Russian U16 National Team 2009 - by Sahereh

Khmelevskaya

Knyazeva

Namok

Davydova

Tikhonenko

4 Anna Khmelevskaya (172-G-94)
5 Ekaterina Fedorenkova (175-G-93)
6 Tatiana Nikitina (182-C-94)
7 Alina Zamaraeva (180-G-93)
8 Anastasiia Knyazeva (177-G-93)
9 Darya Namok (179-G-93)
10 Mariya-Margarita Davydova (189-F/C-93)
11 Ekaterina Posylkina (181-F-93)
12 Ksenia Tikhonenko (190-C-93)
13 Marina Ryavkina (169-G-93)
14 Julia Gladkova (183-G-94)
15 Galina Kiseleva (182-F-93)
Head Coach: Anna Arkhipova
Assistant Coaches: Vladan Chubrich , Jane Stirling , Andrey Ruzanov

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SERBIA - Women

Serbia bounce back with win over Sweden - by Eurobasket News
Serbia U16 - Sweden U16 60:39

Serbian U16 National team left the opening loss to Turkey behind to register the initial success at the European Championship in Naples. They thumped Swedish counterparts today to climb at 1-1 record in Group A. Sweden in the meantime slipped at 0-2 record.
Milica Toskovic (186-F-93) set the tone early firing twice from behind the arc. Serbia maintained the lead well to enjoy a 14:8 advantage at the first break. Sweden however leveled things up in the second stanza. They scored six points in a row to knot it up at 18. Marija Radosevic (178-G-93) restored the lead for Serbia with a three-pointer and the Balkan team grabbed a 27:23 halftime advantage. Stulic and Marija Radosevic exploded with 10 points in a row at the start of the third quarter as Serbia built a 37:23 buffer. Sweden could not strike back and fell behind by 20 points with ten minutes to go. Serbia cruised to the win in the final frame.
Milica Toskovic came up with 13 points for Serbia. Marija Radosevic and Natasa Kovacevic (187-F-94) had 9 points each in the winning effort. Paulina Hersler (189-F-94) responded with 11 points and 10 rebounds for Sweden. Rebecka Dahlin (169-G-93) netted 6 points in the loss.

Serbia U16: Milica Toskovic 13, Marija Radosevic 9, Natasa Kovacevic 9
Sweden U16: Paulina Hersler 11+10 boards, Rebecka Dahlin 6

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SLOVAKIA - Women

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SLOVENIA - Women

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SPAIN - Women

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SWEDEN - Women

Swedish U16 National Team 2009 - by Sahereh

Kurt

Dahlin

Fontaine

Hersler

Zahui

4 Helena Kurt (165-G-93)
5 Sofie Persson (168-G-93)
6 Rebecka Dahlin (169-G-93)
7 Nathalie Fontaine (179-F-93)
8 Abigail Asoro (177-F-93)
9 Agnes Brattlund (179-F-93)
10 Elin Gustavsson (185-F-93)
11 Josefin Vesterberg (187-F-93)
12 Paulina Hersler (189-F-94)
13 Mikaela Gustafsson (184-C-93)
14 Ulrica Holmqvist (183-C-93) of Telge Basket
15 Amanda Zahui (191-C-93) of Stockholmspolisen
Head Coach: Benny Johansson
Assistant Coaches: Peter Johansson , Jeanette Johansson

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TURKEY - Women

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WNBA - Women

Last games (4) - Wins for Monarchs, Fever, Mystics and Dream - by Eurobasket News
S.Antonio SS - Sacramento M. 93-101
Nicole Powell (6'2''-G/F-82, college: Stanford) stepped up for the Monarchs collecting 21 points and 7 rebounds and leading them to fifth victory of the season (5-15). DeMya Walker had 14 and Ticha Penicheiro delivered 12 pts, plus 9 assists. In Silver Stars, Becky Hammon (5'6''-G-77, college: Colorado St.) and Sophia Young (6'1''-F-83, college: Baylor) were impressive combining 67 points. However, all other players in the loosing squad were not on good level what resulted ninth loss (8-9).

Connecticut S. - Indiana F. 85-94
Katie Douglas (6'1''-G/F-79, college: Purdue) once again paced Indiana fever to victory, this time against Connecticut Sun and with 32 points, plus 6 boards. Tamika Catchings (6'1''-F-79, college: Tennessee) followed her with 23 points and 7 boards. In Connecticut Sun, Asjha Jones (6'2''-F-80, college: Connecticut) and Sandrine Grude combined 40 points and 19 rebounds. Fever 14-4 (10th straight home win), Sun 9-9.

Washington M. - New York L. 78-75
The Mystic jumped to 10-8 record in Eastern conference after last night's victory against the New York Liberty. Alana Beard (5'11''-G/F-82, college: Duke) was a key player for the winners with 28 points and 6 rebounds. Nakia Sanford (6'4''-F/C-76, college: Kansas) helped with 16 pts and 6 rebs. On the other side, Janel McCarville (6'2''-C-82, college: Minnesota) collected 28 points and 6 boards.

Phoenix M. - Atlanta D. 76-106
The Atlanta Dream had couple of players in a game mood yesterday. Angel McCoughtry (6'1''-F-86, college: Louisville) top-scored with 17, while Iziane Castro (6'0''-G/F-82) and Ivory Latta delivered 16 points each. Tangela Smith answered with 15 points and 5 boards in Phoenix Mercury. Dream 9-10, Mercury 10-8.

Swanier happy to have landed with Mercury - by Eurobasket News
Conditioned by a college career defined mostly by success, former UConn guard Ketia Swanier (5'7''-G-86, college: Connecticut), a WNBA first-round pick in 2008, admits she was somewhat shocked when the Sun waived her on June 1.

'It's not something you ever expect to happen, especially knowing the hard work you had put in during the offseason,' Swanier said Tuesday at Mohegan Sun Arena. 'I just told myself, 'It is what it is, God has a plan for me. Everything happens for a reason.' So I decided to just keep working hard, keep my head up and continue to move forward.'

Swanier, in place as Lindsay Whalen's backup at the point, appeared in 25 games with six starts. But she averaged only 1.6 points, shooting 27.7 percent from the floor and 23.3 percent (7 of 30) on three-pointers.

Sun coach Mike Thibault offered suggestions for ways she could improve in the offseason. But after a short time playing professionally in Poland, Swanier returned home and spent the rest of the winter focusing on her charity, Ketia4Kidz, which benefits families of enlisted men and women.

'They told me I needed to work on my shot in the offseason,' Swanier said. 'After I came home from Poland, I played, but mostly by myself or with my father. There wasn't really a lot of 5-on-5. But the only thing I honestly was worried about was maybe not being in basketball shape. And I figured that would come along once I started to run [full court].'

But on June 1, to make room for free agent Kristi Cirone, Thibault waived Swanier.

'I told her she had been outplayed by the people who were here,' Thibault said.

'Sometimes you get caught up in a numbers game. She didn't get cut because she was a bad player. Sometimes you need to get cut once to appreciate what you have. If it's taken away, you need to examine what you are doing to make sure it doesn't happen again.'

Swanier drove 14 hours home to Georgia that night, uncertain of her WNBA future.

'I had no idea how long I'd have to wait,' she said. 'But the very next day [June 3], my agent said I was going to Phoenix.'

In Phoenix, she comes off the bench to spell Temeka Johnson. Swanier has new life in a system that seems to be a better fit for her skills.

'She is perfect for our system,' Mercury coach Corey Gaines said. 'She comes in with energy, helps us move faster than we may already be going because she ups the tempo. She's a great defender and a smart player who can score. She may miss a few shots, but I like the aggressiveness she brings because it keeps a defense on its back.'

Swanier has appeared in 18 of the Mercury's 19 games, averaging 11.2 minutes and 3.3 points. And her shooting has improved; 42.6 percent from the field, 40.0 percent on threes.

On Tuesday night, she had two points, two rebounds, three assists, four fouls and four turnovers in 15 minutes in the 95-80 victory over the Sun.

'In their system, they don't need that person [backup point guard] to be complicated,' Thibault said. 'They just want her to push the ball up the floor hard, which is her strength.'

Courtesy of www.courant.com

Standings

WNBA Standings

Eastern
1. Indiana F.	14-4
2. Washingt. M.	10-8
3. Connect. S.	9-9
4. Chicago S.	9-10
5. Atlanta D.	9-10
6. New York L.	6-11
7. Detroit S.	5-9
Western
1. Phoenix M.	14-6
2. Seattle S.	11-7
3. Minnesota L.	10-8
4. S.Antonio SS	8-9
5. L.Angeles S.	5-10
6. Sacram. M.	5-15

Pat Coyle relieved of coaching duties - by Eurobasket News
New York Liberty president and general manager Carol Blazejowski announced today that Pat Coyle has been relieved of her coaching duties. Assistant coach Anne Donovan will serve as interim head coach for the remainder of the season.

'We thank Patty for her contributions to the New York Liberty over the past 11 seasons; I have great personal and professional respect for her,' said Blazejowski. 'However, at this time I decided that a change was in the best interests of the team.'

Coyle was named Liberty head coach on December 8, 2004, after serving as interim head coach midway through the 2004 season. In her five seasons as head coach, she compiled a record of 81-90, including four post-season campaigns and two Eastern Conference Finals appearances. Coyle started as an assistant coach on December 16, 1998.

Anne Donovan is one of the most accomplished women's basketball players and coaches in history. As a player, she was a Naismith Award winner and three-time All-American selection at Old Dominion and won gold medals with the 1984 and 1988 U.S. Olympic Teams. She served as an assistant coach helping the U.S. capture gold medals in the 1998 and 2004 Olympics. In 2008, Donovan coached the U.S. Women's National team to an Olympic gold medal in Beijing. Prior to joining the Liberty as an assistant on April 28th, 2009, Donovan served as interim head coach with the Indiana Fever in 2000. She also held head-coaching positions with the Charlotte Sting (2001-2002) and the Seattle Storm (2003-2007). In Seattle, she compiled a 93-77 record with four playoff berths, including the 2004 WNBA Championship crown.

Courtesy of the New York Liberty

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WORLD CHAMPIONSHIPS U19 - Women

Stats Leaders

Points Per Game

Elizabeth Folake CAMBAGE
(203-C-91)
Avg: 21.3

1. Cambage, AUS	21.3
2. Xargay Casad., ESP	16.3
3. Inoubli, TUN	15.8
4. Solopova, LTU	14.7
5. Mamiya, JPN	14.4
6. Arami, TUN	14.2
7. Wen, CHN	14.0
8. Jarry, AUS	12.9
9. Ogwumike, USA	12.6
10. Achonwa, C.	12.3

Rebounds Per Game

Ouleymatou COULIBALY
(--90)
Avg: 11.5

1. Coulibaly, MLI	11.5
2. Alexander, CAN	11.3
3. Ogwumike, USA	9.3
4. Paugaite, LTU	9.1
5. Mariko, MLI	8.6
6. Ble Ossepe, ESP	8.6
7. Wicijowski, CAN	8.3
8. Mamiya, JPN	8.3
9. Logunova, RUS	8.0
10. Lee, K.	7.8

Assists Per Game

Siyue QIU
(--91)
Avg: 4.4

1. Qiu, CHN	4.4
2. Prahalis, USA	4.4
3. Zintikaite, LTU	2.3
4. Bartonova, CZE	2.3
5. Plagnard, FRA	2.3
6. Jarry, AUS	2.1
7. Ouvina Modre., ESP	2.0
8. Ireland, AUS	2.0
9. Harrington, AUS	1.9
10. Madgen, A.	1.9

Steals Per Game

Lilia INOUBLI
(--92)
Avg: 3

1. Inoubli, TUN	3.0
2. Coulibaly, MLI	2.3
3. Flores, ARG	2.0
4. Gonzalez, ARG	2.0
5. Fernandes Da., BRA	2.0
6. Johnson, USA	1.9
7. Achonwa, CAN	1.9
8. Prahalis, USA	1.7
9. Xargay Casad., ESP	1.7
10. Ireland, A.	1.6

Blocks Per Game

Giedre PAUGAITE
(192-C-90)
Avg: 2.9

1. Paugaite, LTU	2.9
2. Cambage, AUS	2.7
3. Siksniute, LTU	2.6
4. Alexander, CAN	1.9
5. Tippett, AUS	1.6
6. Tarasova, RUS	1.4
7. Alminaite, LTU	1.3
8. Vernerey, FRA	1.1
9. Logunova, RUS	1.1
10. Burani, A.	1.1