EUROBASKET NEWS REPORT - 9/30/2009

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Men News

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  AUSTRALIA   


Stats Leaders - NBL



Deba George leads Cairns Dream to Championship - by James Hoff
The Cairns Dream mens basketball team were crowned National Champions after defeating the Melbourne Black Eagles 98-67 in the Grand Final of the National Aboriginal & Torres Strait Islander Basketball Association National Championships which were held last week in Cairns.

Led by young Cairns Marlins ABA player Travis Thorne, who was named Most Valuable Player or the grand final, the Dream dominated the game from start to finish to claim the Mens A-Grade National title. Thorne was well supported by Skytrans Cairns Taipans NBL player Deba George (183-G-85) who top scored with a game-high 23-points. The Dream finished the week undefeated with 6-wins from 6-games.

The event attracted 45 teams from all over the country of all genders and age groups, with players coming from as far away as Melbourne, Perth, Fremantle, Darwin, Thursday Island and Newcastle. Big crowds turned out over the five days to catch all the action.

One of the major highlights of the week was the Slam Dunk and 3-point shootout competitions. More than 1500 people packed into the Fish Tank to watch hometown hero Deba George battle with Brisbane's Simon Taylor (189-G-86) in the Slam Dunk competition. In the closest finish in the history of the competition, Taylor was crowned champion after beating George 38-37 (out of 40) in the final dunk of the night.

Local Cairns player Randy Ware won the mens 3-point shootout while Patricia Graham from the Northern Territory won her second three-point title in the womens division.

Hoop Dreaming Project Director Joel Khalu (183-81) said the event definitely created a huge buzz in the Far North QLD community.

It was a fantastic week for everybody involved and I am sure nobody went home disappointed, Khalu said.

To have this many teams travel from all over the country to Cairns and play at such a high-level was very entertaining for all those who watched.

In 2010 the 5th Annual National Aboriginal & Torres Strait Islander Basketball Association National Championships will be held in Melbourne.
[Edited from Cairns Basketball Inc].


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  AUSTRIA   


Furstenfeld Wins Super Cup Championship - by Lindsey McIntyre
The 2008-2009 Cup Champion BSC Raiffeisen Furstenfeld Panthers defeated the Playoff Champion WBC Raiffeisen Wels 77-68 to win the Austrian Bundesliga A Super Cup Championship for 2009-2010. Wels jumped out to an 8-2 lead to start the game, but Furstenfled recovered to lead a tightly-contested game 38-35 at halftime.

Furstenfeld took control in the third quarter, outscoring Wels 22-14 in the period, including a 9-0 run. Wels stormed back in the fourth quarter to pull within six points at 66-60, but Furstenfeld was able to hold on to claim the title. Defense was key to the Panthers, who grabbed 11 steals.

'We played really good defense the entire game, consistent defense,' said Furstenfeld's Shawn Ray (194-F-80, agency: Court Side, college: N.C.Central). 'They out-rebounded us and shot a better percentage, but they had 18 turnovers and we only had 13, so I think that was the key last night.'

Wels's Jason Conley (196-G-81, agency: Pro One Sports, college: Missouri) led all scorers with 24 points and five rebounds. Tim Burnette (188-G-82, college: Tarleton St.) led the way for the Panthers with 17 points, four assists and three steals. Shawn Ray followed with 15 points, shooting 5/5 from both the field and the free-throw line. Brian Heinle (207-C-78, agency: Court Side, college: Cal.St. Northridge) chipped in 13 points, six rebounds and Desmond Penigar (201-F-81, college: Utah St.) pulled down 11 rebounds and 11 points for Furstenfeld.

Other notable scorers for Wels included Trent Meacham (188-G-85, agency: Warren Sports International, college: Illinois) with 13 points and Matthew Nelson (206-F-85, college: E.Washington) with nine. Davor Lamesic (205-F-83, agency: Interperformances) and Bruce Fields (197-F-80, agency: Rasmussen Services, college: Gardner-Webb) each added eight points.


Furstenfeld earn first SuperCup title - by Eurobasket News
Furstenfeld - Wels 77:68

Furstenfeld made their season debut the one to dream about. They held off the Bundesliga reigning champions Wels to gain the first ever SuperCup title. Tim Burnette (188-G-82, college: Tarleton St.) fired 17 points to pace balanced effort from the Panthers.
Furstenfeld enjoyed a slightly better start to the game. They earned a 19:16 lead after ten minutes of action. Wels quickly drew things level at 22. But Furstenfeld cleared off to an 8-point distance 37:29 late in the first half. Wels closed the second period on a 6:1 run to trail by three. Jay Youngblood extended the margin at 10 points late in the third frame 54:44. But Wels refused to surrender as they clipped the margin back to just 5 points. Furstenfeld stayed in charge and entered the fourth term ahead by 11 points 60:49. Wels never got closer than 6 points in the final stanza and the Panthers sneaked to the win at the end.
Shawn Ray (193-F-80, agency: Court Side, college: N.C.Central) scored 15 points for Furstenfeld. Brian Heinle (206-C-78, agency: Court Side, college: Cal.St. Northridge) contributed 13 points in the winning effort. Jason Conley (196-G-81, agency: Pro One Sports, college: Missouri) answered with 24 points for Wels. Trent Meacham (188-G-85, agency: Warren Sports International, college: Illinois) delivered 13 points in defeat.

Furstenfeld: Tim Burnette 17, Shawn Ray 15, Brian Heinle 13
Wels: Jason Conley 24, Trent Meacham 13


Fabricio Vay Joins PVSK Pannonpower Pecs - by Interperformances
6'9'' guard/small forward Fabricio Vay (206-F-86, agency: Interperformances) has signed a deal with PVSK Pannonpower Pecs in the Hungarian first league. Fabricio was born in Argentina but has a Bosman A passport. He is only 23 years old but has already played in several such as the NBA Development League, the Spanish ACB and the Italian LegaDue. Last season Fabricio played for Arkadia Traiskirchen Lions in the Austian A Bundesliga, where he averaged 17.2 ppg, grabbing 6.6 rebounds. This is a great opportunity for the member of the Argentinian National team, considering that Pecs is the champion of the Hungarian League Regular Season 2008/09.

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  BALTIC LEAGUE   


Lietuvos Rytas and Zalgiris won the openers - by Eurobasket News
Nevezis - Lietuvos Rytas 65-80
Lietuvos Rytas opened their title defense with 80:65 in the start of the Baltic League 2009/2010. The favorites won over Nevezis for the first victory. Arturas Jomantas (200-G/F-85) and Borovnjak Dejan top-scored for the winners with 15 points each, while Popovic Bojan netted 13. Bjelica Milko posted 12 and Gecevicius Martynas poured in 11. Gvezdauskas and Beliavicius combined 30 points in the losing effort.

Siauliai - Zalgiris 80-88
Zalgiris won the opener of the Baltic League over Siauliai away from home. The recent winner of the BBL Cup title had a 88:80 victory. Travis Watson (203-F/C-81, college: Virginia) exploded with 24 points and 15 rebounds, while Brown Marcus and Pocius Martynas followed him with 14 points each. Salenga Dainius and Kalnietis Mantas brought the winners 10 points apiece. Gailius Deivydas ended up with 16 points for the home side and Kuzminskas added 14.


Stats Leaders
Points Per Game
 Reinis STRUPOVICS
  Valmiera
  (192-G-87)
  Avg: 20.8
 1. Strupovics, Keiza.20.8 
 2. Bankevics, Valmiera19.6 
 3. Kolesnikov, VEF R.19.4 
 4. Clark, Valmiera19.1 
 5. Vares, Valga Welg18.8 
 6. Varnelis, Alytus A.18.4 
 7. Alexander, Ba.17.7 
 8. Kazevicius, Alytus A.17.3 
 9. Gabsys, Alytus Alita17.1 
 10. Runkauskas, Sudu.17.1 
Rebounds Per Game
 Richard ANDERSON
  Vancouver T.
  (199-F-77)
  Avg: 9.5
 1. Anderson, Valga W.9.5 
 2. Beard, TU/Rock9.3 
 3. Alexander, Ba.8.5 
 4. Butkevicius, Kaunas T.7.9 
 5. Vasylius, Neptunas7.7 
 6. Varnelis, Alytus A.7.7 
 7. Bambis, Zemgale7.3 
 8. Valukonis, Suduva7.3 
 9. Clark, Valmiera7.1 
 10. Berzins,.7.1 
Assists Per Game
 Giorgi TSINTSADZE
  Trikalla
  (192-G-86)
  Avg: 5
 1. Tsintsadze, TU/Rock5.0 
 2. Gabrans, ASK/.4.6 
 3. Hill, Techasas4.4 
 4. Sirsnins, Valmiera4.4 
 5. Runkauskas, Suduva4.3 
 6. Grant, Norrkoping4.3 
 7. Cooper, VEF Riga4.1 
 8. Kazevicius, Alytus A.4.0 
 9. Jeromanovs, VEF R.3.9 
 10. Dainys, Neptun.3.8 
Steals Per Game
 John LINEHAN
  Cholet
  (175-G-78)
  Avg: 3.3
 1. Linehan, Kalev/Cr.3.3 
 2. Bolds, Techasas2.6 
 3. Jeromanovs, VEF R.2.3 
 4. Slesers, Keiza.2.2 
 5. Mazutis, ASK Riga2.2 
 6. Gabrans, ASK/.2.1 
 7. Pilk, TTU K.2.0 
 8. Skele, Ba.1.9 
 9. Valukonis, Suduva1.9 
 10. Kolesnikov, VEF.1.9 
Blocks Per Game
 Joakim KJELLBOM
  Norrkoping
  (213-C/F-79)
  Avg: 1.7
 1. Kjellbom, Norrkoping1.7 
 2. Anderson, Valga W.1.4 
 3. Shukhovtsov, Sakal.1.3 
 4. Lyde, Kalev/Cramo1.3 
 5. Berzins, Ba.1.3 
 6. Talts, TU/Rock1.2 
 7. Selakovs, VEF Riga1.2 
 8. Elliott, Valmiera1.1 
 9. Viiask, TTU K.1.1 
 10. Toome, TTU.1.1 


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


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  BARBADOS   


Cavs do the double - by Justin Marville
KELVIN 'MR BUSINESS' PATTERSON returned to Premier League basketball with a guarantee.

And the Mpact Station Hill Cavaliers are cashing in.

After predicting glory in the off-season after his two-year hiatus, the burly national centre made the Cavs the toast of basketball once again, as the newly-crowned Premier League kings culminated their championship-winning season with a second successive knockout title.

Patterson scored the Cavs' last seven points, including the eventual game-winning three-point play as Station Hill pipped Act II Popcorn Clapham Bulls 91-89 in a thrilling Knockout final at the Barbados Community College.

A better showcase couldn't have been drawn up for the much-awaited season finale between the historic rivals, who left everything on the floor
in arguably this year's best contest.

Even without the last-second finish, the game's first ten minutes was worth the price of admission when the two teams combined for a remarkable nine treys in Station Hill's 28-25 first quarter lead.

And that was topped by the frenetic pace towards the end of the second period where Junior Moore's ten-point explosion off the Cavs' bench was answered by a pair of Halley Franklyn triples that brought the scores to 50-50 by the end of the half.

The third quarter even provided a bit of comic relief when Clapham head coach Barry Rock received a technical foul for hitting the scorer's horn in disgust in an effort to get the attention of the two on-court officials.

But it's the dramatic conclusion which the enthralling encounter will be best remembered for, as the fourth quarter, which featured four lead changes, wasn't decided until the final second.

The initial stages of the period gave no indication of the late-game theatrics, though, with the Bulls threatening to surrender meekly as they watched a one-point deficit (68-69) balloon to eight (78-86) after inexplicably keeping the ball out of the hands of leading men Jeremy Gill and Halley Franklyn.

However, Station Hill went through a similar meltdown, turning over the ball against their opponents' half-court trap which led to seven unanswered Bulls points and an ensuing one-point lead (87-86) at the two-minute mark.

The Bulls actually had a couple of chances to extend that advantage, but Rahiim Gibbons couldn't knock down a wide open look from behind the arc before Gill botched a routine lay-up by looking for contact from the oncoming Andrew Alleyne.

And the seasoned Cavs forward duly made Gill pay for his costly gaffe, responding with a reverse lay-up at the other end to restore Station Hill's advantage (88-87) inside the final minute.

But the Bulls weren't finished just yet. Franklyn missed a contested attempt in the paint, but guard Kodia Leacock picked Jason Smith's pocket after the following rebound, then found a streaking Gill who made the go-ahead score with 17.2 seconds to play.

It would be the last of the Bulls' celebrations, though, because Patterson replied with a clutch turnaround jumper at the top of the key just seconds later, fouling out Franklyn in the process before hitting the ensuing free throw.

This left Clapham with 8.6 ticks for one last possession, but Gill's ensuing last-second three-point attempt along the baseline was just long and the Bulls never got back the ball before time expired.

Patterson led the Cavs with 19 points; Moore chipped in with 18 while Alleyne and Errol Pollard scored 16 and 14 points, respectively. For Clapham, Franklyn had a game-high 26 points and Gill 25.

The victory gave the Station Hill club a fifth cup for the season, adding to their women's 'double' and the league triumph by the Intermediate side.

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  BELGIUM   


Liege win Supercup - by Eurobasket News
Liege - Charleroi 84:70

Liege opened their Belgian season in style. They celebrated the first Supercup title since 2004 rallying past Charleroi.
Lalic and Matela helped Charleroi to a 13:4 start. But Liege gradually adjusted and trailed by only 4 points at the first break 17:21. The breakthrough happened in the second term. Liege went on a 26:12 run to shock Charleroi. Liege rolled to a 10-point lead at halftime. Liege continued to dominate after the main break. The team opened a 16-point advantage heading into the fourth stanza. The reigning champions could not pick up the slack. They fired 21 points in the fourth term but as Liege fell comfortable in offense Charleroi could not win this one.
Andrija Stipanovic (208-C-86) exploded with 30 points to pace Liege. Adrian Banks (191-G-86, college: NW Mississippi CC) added 13 points, while Will Thomas (201-F-86, agency: Interperformances) finished with 15 points in the victory. Jerry Johnson (183-G-82, agency: Hart Sports Mngm, college: Rider) and Nicholas Jacobson (195-G-80, agency: Pro One Sports, college: Utah) replied with 13 points for Charleroi. Justin Hamilton (191-G-80, college: Florida) delivered 9 points in the loss.

Liege: Andrija Stipanovic 30, Will Thomas 15, Adrian Banks 13
Charleroi: Jerry Johnson 13, Nicholas Jacobson 13, Justin Hamilton 9


Mons Coaches News - by Peter Buyse
Dexia Mons-Hainaut coach Chris Finch announced on tuesday during practise that he s leaving the team to join the Houston Rockets organization. His first job will be to coach the NBDL team Rio Grande Vipers. This season would have been his 3rd with Mons. Before Mons he also coached Bree.
Coach Finch will coach his last game vs Aalstar this saturday. Johan Roijakkers stays on as assistant coach to Finch's successor.


Spirou Basket had plus 21 in the last quarter, but celebrated with just 55-53 win against Orleans - by Eurobasket News
SPIROU BASKET - ENTENTE ORLEANS 55-53

Spirou Basket registered tiny 55-53 win in Game 1 of Euroleague qualifications. Second game is scheduled for Friday and Orleans will be the host. Jerry Johnson (183-G-82, agency: Hart Sports Mngm, college: Rider) was the only player with double-digits in scoring for Spirou today, 10 points. He also handed out 6 assists beside that. Nicholas Jacobson (195-G-80, agency: Pro One Sports, college: Utah) and Dwayne Broyles (196-F/G-82, college: JMU) followed him with 9 points each. In Orleans, Austin Nichols (198-G/F-82, agency: ACMT, college: Humboldt St.) responded with 14 points. Ryvon Covile (206-C-84, agency: ZAG Advocates, college: Detroit Mercy) had 13 and Cedrick Banks (190-G-81, college: Ill.-Chicago) collected 12 points, plus 5 boards.
First half of the game was pretty leveled. First ten minutes belonged to Orleans 13-14 and in the following quarter the hosts made 13-11. Spirou players totally exploded after the breather. They intensified defense stopping Orleans on just 5 points in 10 minutes. On the other side, Jerry Johnson and his teammates drained 20 for comfortable 46-30 lead after 30 minutes of play. At that time it seemed that Orleans will face with huge loss, but its players did not give up. They recovered from this shock quickly and despite Spirou had 53-32 in the last quarter, Orleans managed almost to tie the score. First, Orleans came to 53-43 and in the last 4 minutes created 2-10 run. Austin Nichols closed this game with a triple for more than acceptable result by his team, especially because they had 21 pts deficit just few minutes before that.

Spirou: Jerry Johnson 10+6 as, Nicholas Jacobson 9, Dwayne Broyles 9
Orleans: Austin Nichols 14, Ryvon Covile 13, Cedrick Banks 12+5 boards

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  BOSNIA   


Mirza Delibasic Memorial: Bosna ASA BHT fails against Cibona - by Eurobasket News
Bosna ASA BHT - Cibona 76-80

In its second game at the Memorial Tournament Mirza Delibasic, Bosna ASA BHT did not manage to beat Croatian champion Cibona. In a closely fought contest, Bosna ASA BHT lost 76-80 even though they opened the game good. Bosna ASA BHT used the home court and the support of the crowd to take the early game lead. After the first quarter, they were up 23-17 mostly thanks to points by Suad Sehovic (197-G/F-87). In the second, Cibona players managed to adjust defensively and have started to impose their game. Bojan Bogdanovic (202-G/F-89) and Antonio Graves (190-G-85, college: Pittsburgh) were particularly good during this period and have helped Cibona cut the deficit to 45-42 by halftime. Third quarter was spent in an even match-up as teams exchanged lead. Bosna ASA BHT still managed to hang onto its lead ad has entered the final 10 minutes with plus 3. Last quarter brought intense fight, as Cibona managed to tie the score with 4 minutes left in the game. One minute later Bosna ASA BHT regained 75-73 advantage. From that point on, Bosna players stopped executing offensively and scored only 3 more points until the end, while Cibona went on a run which enabled it 76-80 win.
For Cibona, Bojan Bogdanovic led the way with 16 points, while Jamont Gordon (193-G/F-87, college: Mississippi St.) followed closely with 15. Marin Rozic (201-F-83) chipped in with 13, while Antonio Graves added 12 points. Suad Sehovic was outstanding for Bosna, finishing the game with 25 points. Goran Bajic (207-C-83, agency: Beo Basket) added 15 and Ivan Ivanovic (205-F-80, agency: Beo Basket) finished with 13 points.
In the other game of the Tournament, Fenerbahce also recorded a win and will now face Cibona in a duel of undefeated teams.

Bosna ASA BHT: Suad Sehovic 25, Goran Bajic 15, Ivan Ivanovic 13
Cibona: Bojan Bogdanovic 16, Jamont Gordon 15, Marin Rozic 13, Antonio Graves 12

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  BRITISH VIRGIN ISLANDS   


Chino Opens Account with Worcester Wolves - by David Edole
by: BVI Platinum News Sports Reporter

BVI national player Randy George (200-F-81, college: Henderson St.) played like a warrior among lions when he opened his British Basketball League (BBL) season with the Worcester Wolves last Friday.

George led all scorers with 18 points as the Wolves fell 94-81 to the Marshall MK Lions who had no less than six Lions players ended the match in double figures.

Despite the loss, George said he is looking forward to the remainder of the season, noting that he accepted the move to Worcester because it provides an opportunity to be a part of something special.

I think I bring a leadership mentality to the team. I am a hard worker and a lot of my colleagues around the BBL know me because of what I bring to the game. I always play with a lot of energy and the will to do whatever it takes to win the game and that is sometimes doing the little things that don't show up on a stats sheet, George stated.

Georges first BBL assignment was in 2007 with the Shieffied Sharks and knows pretty well that its all up to how well players perform as a team in the regular season and making it to the playoffs which can determine the future of any BBL club and the future of the players because a lot of the BBL Clubs rely on sponsorship.

Well I think I got a few more years left in my tank on playing basketball overseas, but I leave that in God's hands. I've been staying healthy thus far, this being my third season playing professionally. Its all about taking care of your body and living a healthy lifestyle I think can determine the longevity of a basketball player. I think this can open other opportunities for me in the near future, George stated.

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  BULGARIA   


Crvena Zvezda inks Bulgarian NT player FIlip Videnov - by Eurobasket News
KK Crvena Zvezda Belgrade announced arrival of Bulgarian National Team player Filip Videnov (196-F/G-80, agency: Interperformances, college: W.Kentucky). The 29-year old Videnov is coming to Serbia from Spanish team Kalise Gran Canaria. He appeared 31 times ACB last season averaging 5.8 ppg and 1.3 rpg. Videnov played for Team Bulgaria on EuroBasket 2009 in Poland collecting 13.2 ppg, 5.2 rpg and 4 apg for 6 games. He ended the contest as fifth ranked assistant.
Before Granca, Filip Videnov spent two seasons with Caja San Fernando Sevilla. Actually in January 2008 he moved from Sevilla to Solsonica Rieti. For 13 games in Italian Serie A he had 7.2 ppg and 2.2 rpg. In the past Videnov also was a member of Tekelspor Istanbul, Sluc Nancy and Split. With Nancy he reached the Pro A Finals in 2005. At the same year he played for Team Bulgaria on EuroBasket in Belgrade. For 3 games on that event Videnov exploded with 22.7 ppg, 2.7 rpg, 2.3 apg and 3 spg.
Filip Videnov is a product of Western Kentucky University, where he graduated in 2003. For 33 games in senior season Videnov had 9.6 ppg and 4.8 rpg.

Aleksandar Ugrinoski set to sign with Rilski Sportist - by Eurobasket News
According to Macedonian media, Aleksandar Ugrinoski (192-G-88, agency: Interperformances) will join the last season's BIBL champion after impressing them during the trial period. Ugrinoski stated he is delighted because he will have a chance to play for very ambitious team. He hopes he will be able to easily adjust to the new surroundings and that he will repay the faith shown in him. Ugrinoski will be the second Macedonian in Rilski, as the team is led by Head Coach Aleksandar Todorov (agency: Global Sports Plaza ). Rilski is entering the new season with big appetites in NBL, as well as in BIBL title. In both competitions Ugrinoski will be expected to bring that extra edge.
Aleksandar Ugrinoski started his career at Cibona U16 team. After making his debut for Cibona seniors during 2002-2003 season, Ugrinoski signed with Croatian outfit Dubrava for following season. For Dubrava he averaged 7.4 points and 3.2 rebounds in 17 League games. Next two seasons, Ugrinoski spent back at Cibona, winning the title in 2006. Ugrinoski spent some time in United States where he played for NBDL team Utah Flash, where in 18 games he posted averages of 2.2 points and 1.6 rebounds. Last season, Ugrinoski started with Anaheim Arsenal but in February 2009, he moved to Fersped Rabotnicki. He appeared in 7 BIBL games and averaged 5.6 points before.

Lukoil Akademik grabs the first win on tournament in Serbia - by Eurobasket News
Lukoil - Pirot 101-45

Lukoil started its participation at the friendly Tournament in Pirot in fashion, after recording 101-45 win over the host BC Pirot. It was an easy game for Bulgarian champion as its opponent quality was not even close. All but one Lukoil player saw action in this game and 5 players scored in double digits. After initial 10 minutes of play Lukoil was already 24-15 up. They continued to pound on Pirot in the second quarter and have further increase their lead. At the halftime, the scoreboard showed 46-28 for Lukoil. Same continued after the break, as Pirot simply did not have quality to parry Lukoil talent. With 10 minutes left in the game, winner was already known, as Lukoil was 69-40 up. Than in the final quarter, Lukoil simply exploded offensively scoring 32 points during that period. On the other hand, Pirot players could not buy a basket and have scored only 5.
Chavdar Kostov (196-G-88, agency: Interperformances) led scorers for Lukoil with 20 points. Hristo Nikolov (200-F-85) came of the bench to add 15, while Ernest Brown (213-C-79, agency: Court Side, college: Indian Hills CC) and Veselin Veselinov (201-F-83, agency: Interperformances, college: W.Virginia St.) scored 14 point each. Branko Mirkovic (185-G-82, agency: Global Sports Plaza) was the 5th player to reach double figures as he scored 11. Pirot only had two players reach double digits, as Djukovic scored 13 and Janusevic added 11 points.
Lukoil will meet Serbian team Crvena Zvezda in Tournament Final.

Lukoil Akadamik: Chavdar Kostov 20, Hristo Nikolov 15, Ernest Brown 14, Veselin Veselinov 14, Branko Mirkovic 11
Pirot: Dujkovic 13, Janusevic 11

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  COLOMBIA   


Federation Cup Day 19 results - by Victor Garcia
Arrieros and Piratas took three overtimes to find a winner in the first game at Arrieros home between both teams, Arrieros lost Enielsen Guevara in the first quarter because a sprained ankle, then Jermain Waker and Heissler Guillent took the load of the team, but the trio of Eleuterio Renteria, Hebert Bayona and Alejandro Flores had an awsome game, Piratas was leading by 15 pts with 5 minutes left in the last quarter, then Arrieros fight and send the game to the three overtimes, Piratas lost Gregory Vargas in the overtimes, but Gianluca Bacci and John 'Rat' Perez made the job.
Arrieros Idea 105 - Jermaine Walker 36 pts, Heissler Guillent 28 pts.
Piratas Saludcoop 114

Bucaros prove his depth and talente and defeat Islanders in San Andres, Bucaros controled the boards with 45 rebounds, and just 25 rebounds of Islanders, Cruz Salcedo Leaded the way for Bucaros with 19 pts, while Santos Martinez again had a monster ofensive night with 26.
Islanders Sopesa 86 - Santos Marinez 26 pts, Marlon Martinez 16+9 rebounds.
Bucaros Freskaleche 88 - Cruz Salcedo 19 pts, Miguel Marriaga 17 pts + 13 rebounds.

Cangrejeros fall at home against Cucuta Norte who had oficially Jose Ramn Melendez as new Head Coach, James Maye with 26 pts lead the red and black team,, Edgar Moreno helped with 14 pts, Cangrejeros Francisco Centeno added 23 and Joey Spiegel 19.
Cangrejeros Iderbol 72 - Francisco Centeno 23, Joey Spiegel 19
Cucucta Norte 89 - James Maye 26, Edgar Moreno 14

Stats Leaders
Federation Cup Stats Leaders
Points Per Game
S. Martinez - Islanders 25,4 PPG
J. Watson - Patriotas 22,5 PPG
H. Guillent - Arrieros 19,2 PPG
E. Torres - Piratas 18 PPG
N. Aragn - Arrieros 17,5 PPG
C. Bradford - Bucaros 17,5 PPG
Rebounds Per Game
M. Marriaga - Bucaros 11,5 tpg
J. Canedo - Arrieros 10 rpg
J. Hernandez - Cucuta 9,4 rpp
D. Perez - Arrieros 7 rpg
H. Bayona - Piratas 6 rpg
3FGP
J. Maye - Cucuta 46,4%
C. Bradford - Bucaros 45%
C. Salcedo - Bucaros 43%
J. Spiegel - Cangreje 39%
S. Martinez - Islanders 38%


Standings
Copa Federacion Standings
 1. Bucaros 11-4 
 2. Piratas 10-7 
 3. Cucuta Norte 9-6 
 4. Cangrejeros 8-9 
 5. Arrieros 7-10 
 6. Islanders 6-11 
 7. Alcaldia 5-11 


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  CROATIA   


Mirza Delibasic Memorial: Bosna ASA BHT fails against Cibona - by Eurobasket News
Bosna ASA BHT - Cibona 76-80

In its second game at the Memorial Tournament Mirza Delibasic, Bosna ASA BHT did not manage to beat Croatian champion Cibona. In a closely fought contest, Bosna ASA BHT lost 76-80 even though they opened the game good. Bosna ASA BHT used the home court and the support of the crowd to take the early game lead. After the first quarter, they were up 23-17 mostly thanks to points by Suad Sehovic (197-G/F-87). In the second, Cibona players managed to adjust defensively and have started to impose their game. Bojan Bogdanovic (202-G/F-89) and Antonio Graves (190-G-85, college: Pittsburgh) were particularly good during this period and have helped Cibona cut the deficit to 45-42 by halftime. Third quarter was spent in an even match-up as teams exchanged lead. Bosna ASA BHT still managed to hang onto its lead ad has entered the final 10 minutes with plus 3. Last quarter brought intense fight, as Cibona managed to tie the score with 4 minutes left in the game. One minute later Bosna ASA BHT regained 75-73 advantage. From that point on, Bosna players stopped executing offensively and scored only 3 more points until the end, while Cibona went on a run which enabled it 76-80 win.
For Cibona, Bojan Bogdanovic led the way with 16 points, while Jamont Gordon (193-G/F-87, college: Mississippi St.) followed closely with 15. Marin Rozic (201-F-83) chipped in with 13, while Antonio Graves added 12 points. Suad Sehovic was outstanding for Bosna, finishing the game with 25 points. Goran Bajic (207-C-83, agency: Beo Basket) added 15 and Ivan Ivanovic (205-F-80, agency: Beo Basket) finished with 13 points.
In the other game of the Tournament, Fenerbahce also recorded a win and will now face Cibona in a duel of undefeated teams.

Bosna ASA BHT: Suad Sehovic 25, Goran Bajic 15, Ivan Ivanovic 13
Cibona: Bojan Bogdanovic 16, Jamont Gordon 15, Marin Rozic 13, Antonio Graves 12

Split suffers narrow loss to Helios - by Eurobasket News
Split - Helios 89-91

Split started the tour of Slovenia with a narrow loss to BC Helios. In an intense and close game, Helios managed to come away with 89-91 win. Helios controlled most of the match, but Split mounted a comeback in the final quarter, which Helios managed to suppress barely. Since Split was without three of its important players in Ante Delas (201-G/F-88), Jakolis and Sarac, Head Coach Boris Kurtovic used this game to see what his other players can do. In the first quarter Helios opened the game better, as they imposed their style of play. By the end of the first they were already up 17-24. They continued to pressure its opponents in the second quarter and to increase their lead. Split had no solution for Dejan Delic (199-G-83) who during this period was hitting everything he shot. At the halftime, Helios held comfortable 34-51 lead. After the break, Split players started playing slightly better and even went on the run to cut Helios' deficit. Still hosts countered and with 10 minutes left in the game they were still up 54-76. In the final quarter, Split threw the caution out of the window, as they started pressuring Helios all over the court. This gave results, as they managed to disrupt Helios flow and rhythm and have started to cut into the deficit. Still in the final minutes, Helios players regained their composure and managed to fend off Split's attempt at full comeback.
Zoran Vrkic (200-G-87) led the way for Split with 20 points and Jere Macura (203-F/C-80, college: Notre Dame) added 19. Marko Batina (198-G-86) was also good for the winners finishing the contest with 18 points. Dejan Delic was Helios best scorer with 20 points, Igor Tratnik (207-C/F-89)added 13, while Aliaksei Lashkevich (203-F-78, agency: VTBM) and Vjekoslav Petrovic (193-G/F-81) scored 12 points each.

Split CO: Zoran Vrkic 20, Jere Macura 19, Marko Batina 18, Ante Delas 15
Helios: Dejan Delic 20, Igor Tratnik 13, Aliaksei Lashkevich 12 , Vjekoslav Petrovic 12


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


Nymburk register two victories in Slovenia - by Eurobasket News
Nymburk played two friendly games during their training camp in Slovenia. They prevailed against Olimpija Ljubljana and Helios Domzale.
First the Czech champions challenged their Slovenian counterparts. The hosts looked better in the opening frame. Olimpija fired 27 points to gain an 11-point lead. But gradually Nymburk found the rhythm. They cut the deficit at just 3 points at halftime. Led by Ian Hanavan (202-F-80, agency: Interperformances, college: Evansville) Nymburk spurred in front in the third term. They entered the fourth stanza up by 7 points and held off Olimpija at the end 82:79.
Ian Hanavan poured in 28 points for Nymburk. Pavel Pumprla (194-G-86, agency: PPGroup) added 12 points, while Arthur Lee (185-G-77, agency: Avi Zilberman, college: Stanford) finished with 10 in the win. Saso Ozbolt (188-G-81, agency: World Sport Agency) answered with 19 points for the Ljubljana outfit.
Next Nymburk took on Helios. Nymburk built a 41:29 advantage at halftime. The Czech team dominated in the second half and recorded a comfortable 101:76 victory. Pavel Slezak (185-G-84) and Ian Hanavan finished with 19 points each. Vincent Hunter (208-F-84, college: Arkansas) and Michael Lenzly (189-G-81, college: Wofford) delivered 12 points apiece in the win. Aliaksei Lashkevich (203-F-78, agency: VTBM) replied with 23 points for Helios. Alvin Snow (187-G-81, college: E.Washington) netted 15 points in defeat.


Standings - D2
1Liga Standings
 1. Proton Zlin 4-0 
 2. Plzen 3-1 
 3. Sokol Prazsky 3-1 
 4. Liberec 2-0 
 5. Benesov 2-1 
 6. Usti n/Labem 2-2 
 7. Chomutov 2-2 
 8. Opava B 2-2 
 9. J.Hradec 1-2 
 10. Sparta Praha 1-2 
 11. Sokol H.Kralove 1-3 
 12. Litomerice 1-3 
 13. Trutnov 0-2 
 14. VSB Ostrava 0-3 


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


Standings - 1st Division
1st Division Standings
1. Odense 1-0
2. Solrod 1-0
3. Herlev 1-0
4. ALBA 1-0
5. Hobas 1-0
6. Virum 1-0
7. Skt. Klemens 0-1
8. Aarhus BF 0-1
9. Vaerlose 0-1
10. Falcon 0-1
11. Lemvig 0-1
12. Stevnsgade 0-1


First round is over - by Jonas Sorensen
The first round of the 1st division is now over, and we have an indication of what is going to happen this season. It looks like the league is going to be very even this season. The final results from the games have all been close except for Hobas' win over Aarhus BF. That game ended with Hobas going home as winners with the score of 102-85.

Falcon and Virum were the first teams to square off in this season. It was a very close game that was decided in the last 30 seconds. Both teams played their share of zone. Falcon basically had to do it to save energy, missing three players; Nathan Warner, Thomas Laerke (193-F-91) and Soren Dossing (182-G-92). Warner will be out for a long time with a aggravating back injury.
The profiles in this close season opener were Joe Benjamin (201-F/C-83, college: W.Virginia St.) with 27 points for Virum, while Mikael Nielsen (177-G-90) had 22 for Falcon. Waldek Piekarski (207-C-80) had a very good game up until he got injured in the 4th quarter. He finished the game with 19 points.

Another close game in the season's first round had Lemvig BK and Fjordager BK Odense go into overtime to find a winner. Fjordager BK Odense were up by 15 with three minutes to go in the game, but a great finishing spurt had Lemvig BK fight back, and with 0.2 ticks left on the clock they had two foul shots to bring it into overtime. In overtime, Fjordager BK Odense started by scoring 6 straight points, and looked a comfortable winner. Lemvig BK didn't go down without a fight, and were actually ahead by 1, before Fjordager BK Odense tightened up and took control. The end result was 88-93. Topscorers in that game were Colin Oriard (203-F/C-80, college: Lewis-Clark) from Lemvig BK with 35 points, and for Fjordager BK Odense it was the former Svendborg Rabbits player, Michael Guldbaek (188-G/F-80) who ended up with 28 points.

Maybe the biggest upset of this entire season happened in ALBA, where the home team came away with a 3-point win after being behind by 16 at one point. BK Stevnsgade cannot be happy about the result of this game, since they are considered favorites every time out. The young, enthusiastic team from ALBA were bombing away like always, and as they proved in this game, they can beat anybody and everybody on a good day. BK Stevnsgade went home with a 75-72 defeat.

Other results from the first round:
Herlev Basket-Vaerlose BBK 69-65
Skt. Klemens-Solrod 87-99


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


Finch named coach at Rio Grande - by Gianni Pascucci
The Rio Grande Valley Vipers announced that Chris Finch is the new head coach of the team. Finch, 40, will lead Great Britain National Team in the 2012 Olympics in London and has a great coaching career abroad, between United Kingdom and Belgium. The Vipers job will be, however, his first coaching job in his native USA. He replaces Clay Moser, who had a record of 21-29 in last season.


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  ESTONIA   


TANEL TEIN TO UNDERGO SURGERY! - by Ozell Wells
Tartu Ulikool/Rock was hit with a surprise, just prior to the season with the unpleasant news that their captain Tanel Tein (194-G/F-78, college: St.Francis,NY) has to undergo ankle surgery.
'Yes, Tanel is awaiting surgery. He has been plagued by the ankle,' said Rock heaad coach, Indrek Visnapuu
Rock is also reeling from the injury to Marek Doronin (200-F/G-83), who is also a fixture in the team.
Rock stated on Wednesday, that the leader of the operation is to be Tanel's father, Toomas Tein.
'It will be known after the surgey, when Tanel can re join the team' Visnapuu stated. 'Althought we have heard many things and assumptions, the truth is that we will know during his recovery.'
Tein is expected to return to the team in early November, in a 'best case scenario.'
Rock starts the season this Saturday when they host Baltic League B.C. Zalgiris Kaunas, in Tartu.
-courtesy of DELFI SPORT


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


Ivan Radenovic joins CSKA - by Eurobasket News
Ivan Radenovic (208-F-84, college: Arizona) will play in CSKA Moscow. The 25-year-old forward signed a one-year contract with the Russian powerhouse today. CSKA entered the market after injuries plagued the squad. Smodis, Khryapa and Kaun were sidelined recently.
Ivan Radenovic spent the last season in Greece. He tallied 10.7 points and 3.9 rebounds per game for Panellinios in the Greek A1. In EuroCup his stats came up to 13.9 points, 4.5 boards and 1.1 assists. The Arizona graduate Ivan Radenovic played for Girona in ACB. Radenovic started his career in Partizan.


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


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


FINNISH CUP: Honka, JKS, Pyrinto and YMCA Lahti - by Rauno Hurmalainen
Semifinals next in the Finnish Cup. After tonight's four games there are the Final 4 teams left: Honka (Espoo), JKS (Jarvenpaa), Pyrinto (Tampere) and YMCA Lahti.
JKS is a division 1. team, the rest three are Top League teams. JKS upset this time Korihait (Uusikaupunki) when winning by one 80-79. Honka won on the road in Salo
and Pyrinto + YMCA Lahti were winning at home court.
JKS - Korihait 80-79 (39-43) (J'son Stamper (198-F-85, college: Minnesota) 21/11, P.Jallow 19, T.Viertola 17 - R.Cunningham 20, AZ Reid 17, H.Saaristo 15).
YMCA Lahti - FoKoPo 98-83 (48-35) (T.Riley 29, R.Suonio 24, V.Vesala 18 - D.Vinson 28/10, R.Stewart 13, J. Nissinen 11).
Pyrinto - Torpan Pojat 80-69 (39-31) (K.Lowe 22, A.Lehto 17, Olli Ahvenniemi 15 - C.Smith 19, O.Trotter 15, S.Haanpaa 12).
Vilpas - Hnka 65-73 (35-42) (C.Burgess 19, D.Dora 17/10, A.McMillion 13 - T.Kotti 19, M.Cummings 15, C.Elliott 14/7a).


KORISLIIGA: Three new signees today - by Rauno Hurmalainen
Three new signees today as the season tip off is taking place after three days. The defending Finnish Champion YMCA Lahti replaced American Center Rasean Dickey (208-F/C-85) by American Corey Rouse (203-F-84, agency: Pro One Sports, college: E.Carolina), who has played the last three seasons (2006-09) in Germany 1. Bundesliga (Nuernberg and two seasons in Giessen). Last season Rouse averaged 8,4 ppg - 6,1 rpg. Also Kouvot (Kouvola) changed American Center as Adrian Hill (203-F-84, college: Rutgers) was fired and replaced by Ross 'Nelly' Neltner (206-F-85, agency: Hart Sports Mngm, college: Vanderbilt). Neltner played last season in Poland (Sokol Znicz Jaroslaw - PLK) averaging 8,7 ppg and 7,5 rpg in 11 contests. And Korihait (Uusikaupunki) has re-signed with American G Josh Gonner (188-G-82, college: S.Carolina). Gonner averaged 2008-09 on Korihait roster 16,1 ppg - 3,1 rpg - 2,0 apg in 42 games. Gonner will start his third season in Finland.

Kauhajoki edge Team USA in final exhibition game - by Eurobasket News
Kauhajoki finished their pre-season campaign on a positive note. The Korisliiga newcomers held off Team USA selection 104:94. Kauhajoki ensured a narrow 44:43 lead at halftime. They stepped on the gas in the second half and ran away to a confident 10-point win. Maurice Horton (183-G-84, college: Mount Olive) fired 29 points to pace the charge. Jesse Smith (211-F/C-82, college: Idaho St.) came up with 24 points for the Finnish team. Marcel Jones (203-F-85, college: Oregon St.) debuted for the team and delivered 7 points and 4 assists. Robert Shuler (196-F) answered with 25 points for the Team USA. Banks Estridge (191-G) had 16 points in the loss.


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


Spirou Basket had plus 21 in the last quarter, but celebrated with just 55-53 win against Orleans - by Eurobasket News
SPIROU BASKET - ENTENTE ORLEANS 55-53

Spirou Basket registered tiny 55-53 win in Game 1 of Euroleague qualifications. Second game is scheduled for Friday and Orleans will be the host. Jerry Johnson (183-G-82, agency: Hart Sports Mngm, college: Rider) was the only player with double-digits in scoring for Spirou today, 10 points. He also handed out 6 assists beside that. Nicholas Jacobson (195-G-80, agency: Pro One Sports, college: Utah) and Dwayne Broyles (196-F/G-82, college: JMU) followed him with 9 points each. In Orleans, Austin Nichols (198-G/F-82, agency: ACMT, college: Humboldt St.) responded with 14 points. Ryvon Covile (206-C-84, agency: ZAG Advocates, college: Detroit Mercy) had 13 and Cedrick Banks (190-G-81, college: Ill.-Chicago) collected 12 points, plus 5 boards.
First half of the game was pretty leveled. First ten minutes belonged to Orleans 13-14 and in the following quarter the hosts made 13-11. Spirou players totally exploded after the breather. They intensified defense stopping Orleans on just 5 points in 10 minutes. On the other side, Jerry Johnson and his teammates drained 20 for comfortable 46-30 lead after 30 minutes of play. At that time it seemed that Orleans will face with huge loss, but its players did not give up. They recovered from this shock quickly and despite Spirou had 53-32 in the last quarter, Orleans managed almost to tie the score. First, Orleans came to 53-43 and in the last 4 minutes created 2-10 run. Austin Nichols closed this game with a triple for more than acceptable result by his team, especially because they had 21 pts deficit just few minutes before that.

Spirou: Jerry Johnson 10+6 as, Nicholas Jacobson 9, Dwayne Broyles 9
Orleans: Austin Nichols 14, Ryvon Covile 13, Cedrick Banks 12+5 boards

French teams too strong for Swiss in friendly games - by Eurobasket News
Two French teams played two friendly games against Swiss teams registering one easy and one tiny win.
In Game 1, Chorale Roanne was too strong for BBC Nyon 84-62. Second quarter was crucial one in this game. After 14-15 for Nyon in the opening 10 minutes, Roanne players intensified defense letting their opponents to score just 9 more points until the half time. On the other side, they drained 23 for 13-point lead at the HT. Roanne just sealed this victory in the last quarter, 27-18. Uchenna Nsomwu (208-F/C-78, agency: Beo Basket, college: Wyoming) top-scored in victory with 15, while Nick Lewis (207-F/C-83, agency: Elfus-Siegel Management (ESM), college: San Diego) delivered one point less. Pape-Philippe Amagou (185-G-85) was third scorer in Roanne with 13 points. In BBC Nyon, Simon Amunugama (181-G-90) netted 18 pts.
In Game 2, Strasbourg IG had to work very hard in order to beat Benetton Fribourg 78-77. Sacha Giffa (197-G/F-77) led the winners with 15 points. Ben McCauley (206-F/C-86, college: N.Carolina St.) followed with 14. In the loosing squad, Brendon Polyblank (197-G/F-78, college: Texas St.-San Marcos) delivered 19. Strasbourg entered to last ten minutes with small deficit, but managed to grab this win at the very end. Last quarter ended 24-21 for the French team.

Derrick Obasohan lifts Toulon to victory on preseason tournament - by Eurobasket News
Hyeres Toulon is the winner of preseason tournament in Dijon, which was played last week-end. In the first meeting, Toulon was better than Chalon 108-96. Except of third quarter, which was tied 26-26, Toulon controlled rhythm of the game. Derrick Obasohan (199-F-81, agency: Beo Basket, college: Texas Arlington) shines in this victory draining magnificent 31 points. Mouhamed Sene (213-C-86) and Pierre Pierce (193-G-83, college: Iowa) also had very important roles collecting 16 points each. Laurent Legname (185-G-77) had 13 and Thomas Terrell (201-F/C-79, agency: ACMT, college: Georgia St.) helped the winners with 12 points. In Chalon, Jerome Tillman (198-F-87, college: Ohio) delivered 24 pts.
In the second game of Day 1, Dijon outsmarted Strasbourg 79-77.
In the final of Tournament in Dijon, the host team failed against Toulon 85-90. Once again it was Derrick Obasohan who led the winners, but this time with 20 points. Pierre Pierce followed him with one point less, while Thomas Terrell added 15. For the hosts, Sean Marshall (198-G/F-85, college: Boston Coll.) posted 23 pts. Toulon had good first and third quarter and mostly owing to that celebrated in this meeting.
In the battle for third place, Chalon grabbed 76-74 win against Strasbourg.

Le Mans grabs 61-60 win against ALBA, including 15-0 run at the very beginning - by Eurobasket News
LE MANS SARTHE BASKET - ALBA BERLIN 61-60

Le Mans celebrated one-point win in the first game of Euroleague Qualifications against ALBA Berlin. The second meeting is scheduled for Friday, when German runner-up will be the host. Both teams will have a chance, but it seems that the Germans did pretty good job today in France. Marc Salyers (205-F-79, college: Samford) was totally the best player for the winners. He spent 33 minutes on the court draining 28 points. Joao Lopes Batista (207-F/C-81, college: Gonzaga) followed him with 13 points, plus 6 rebounds and Le Mans did not have any other player with more than 5 pts. In ALBA, Adam Chubb (207-F/C-81, agency: Pro One Sports, college: Pennsylvania) shined with 16 points and 5 rebounds. Julius Jenkins (187-G-81, agency: Pro One Sports, college: Georgia Southern) delivered 15 pts.
Le Mans had magnificent beginning. After four minutes of play Marc Salyers and his teammates already had 10-0 and they didn't stop. Salyers scored a basket and Spencer connected a triple for 15-0 with 3 minutes to go in the first period. ALBA players were shocked and scoreless until that time, but they somehow managed to close the gap on 17-7 after 10 minutes. The Germans were slightly better in the second frame, what resulted with 34-27 at the HT. After the breather ALBA continued with melting the Le Mans lead coming to 47-42 and later to 51-48. Thanks to wonderful 0-11 run at the beginning of the last period, ALBA jumped to 53-59. Still, Marc Salyers and Joao Lopes Batista helped Le Mans to make a turn and to grab 1-point at the very end.

Le Mans: Marc Salyers 28, Joao Lopes Batista 13+6 boards
ALBA: Adam Chubb 16+5 boards, Julius Jenkins 15


Top Interperformances players still on the market! - by Interperformances
As of today September 29th, Interperformances is glad to announce that it has already placed over 70 percent of its players. We still however have very interesting players available. Among the others:

Point Guards:
Jermaine Jackson (195-G-76, college: Detroit Mercy) (Udine-Italy Serie A)
Rashid Atkins (182-G-75, college: St.Joseph's) (Galatasaray-Turkey TBL)
Greg Grays (185-G-79, college: Detroit Mercy) (Givat Shmuel-Israeli Premier League)
Lucas Victoriano (190-G-77) (Zaragoza Spain ACB)
Torey Thomas (180-G-85, college: Holy Cross) (Capitals Holland Eredevisie)

Guards:
Alexandre Garcia (191-G-80) (200-G-88) (Maccabi - Israeli Premier League)
Monty Mack (191-G-77, college: Massachusetts) (Selcuk Universitesi-TurkeyTBL)
Kevin Houston (193-G/F-76, college: St.Bonaventure) (PezinokSlovakia Extraliga)
Vidas Ginevicius (193-G-78) (Vladivostok-Russia A Superleague)
Colin Falls (196-G-85, college: Notre Dame) (Prostejov-Czech Republic NBL)

Small Forwards:
Oscar Torres (195-F/G-76) (Udine -Italy Serie A)
Winsome Frazier (193-G/F-82, college: Mississippi St.) (Telekom Bonn-Germany Bundesliga)
Reggie Williams (194-F-86 college: VMI) (JDA Dijon-France ProA)
Ilian Evtimov (201-F-83 college: N.Carolina St.) (Frankfurt-Germany Bundesliga)
Alex Righetti (198-G/F-77) (Virtus Bologna Italy SerieA)
Rodrigo De La Fuente (200-F-76 college: Washington) (Virtus Roma Italy SerieA)
Elvir Ovcina (212-F/C-76, college: Syracuse) (Bosna BIH/Adriatic League)
Stevan Milosevic (211-C-85) (Koeln Germany Bundeslinga)

Power Forward/Centers:
Virgil Stanescu (207-C/F-77, college: S.Alabama) (Samara-Russia A Superleague)
Vassil Evtimov (207-C/F-77, college: N.Carolina) (Reggio Emilia - LegaDue)
Elton Tyler (205-F/C-79, college: Miami, FL) (Pistoia-Italy LegaDue)
Aerick Sanders (203-F-82, college: San Diego St.) (Aliaga- Turkey TBL)
Gregor Fucka (214-C-71) (Fortitudo Bologna Italy Serie A)

These and several other very interesting quality players could be in usefull in turning around the season for your club this year..

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


Aleksandar Ugrinoski set to sign with Rilski Sportist - by Eurobasket News
According to Macedonian media, Aleksandar Ugrinoski (192-G-88, agency: Interperformances) will join the last season's BIBL champion after impressing them during the trial period. Ugrinoski stated he is delighted because he will have a chance to play for very ambitious team. He hopes he will be able to easily adjust to the new surroundings and that he will repay the faith shown in him. Ugrinoski will be the second Macedonian in Rilski, as the team is led by Head Coach Aleksandar Todorov (agency: Global Sports Plaza ). Rilski is entering the new season with big appetites in NBL, as well as in BIBL title. In both competitions Ugrinoski will be expected to bring that extra edge.
Aleksandar Ugrinoski started his career at Cibona U16 team. After making his debut for Cibona seniors during 2002-2003 season, Ugrinoski signed with Croatian outfit Dubrava for following season. For Dubrava he averaged 7.4 points and 3.2 rebounds in 17 League games. Next two seasons, Ugrinoski spent back at Cibona, winning the title in 2006. Ugrinoski spent some time in United States where he played for NBDL team Utah Flash, where in 18 games he posted averages of 2.2 points and 1.6 rebounds. Last season, Ugrinoski started with Anaheim Arsenal but in February 2009, he moved to Fersped Rabotnicki. He appeared in 7 BIBL games and averaged 5.6 points before.

MZT Skopje close to sign two players - by Eurobasket News
MZT Skopje has started to build roster for the upcoming season and have decided to bring in two familiar faces. Reportedly they have entered into negotiations with Sinisa Avramovski (210-C-85, agency: Global Sports Plaza) and Mladen Gjuroski, who have already played for the club. These two players have been working out with the team for some time and now it seems they will be leading MZT Skopje next season. MZT Skopje Management is reportedly working hard on securing these two deals. They are also planning to continue upgrading MZT roster ahead of new season. Who will be the new signing for the club remains to be seen in the coming days.
Sinisa Avramovski made his debut at MZT Skopje during 2000-2001 season. After three years at the club, he moved to Crvena Zvezda in 2003 but was cut and later joined OKK Beograd. In 2004 he was on the move again, this time signing with Vardar Skopje. After two seasons with Vardar, Avramovski moved to CSKA Sophia where he averaged 6.3 points and 5.3 rebounds in 15 league games. Avramosvki also spent one season in Cyprus where he played for Apollon Limassol and averaged 7.5 points per game. Last season, he started with Gryfony Symferopil in Ukraine. He appeared in 14 games and averaged 4.4 points and 1.9 rebound. In December of 2008 he moved to MZT Skopje where he finished the season.
Mladen Gjuroski is also a product of MZT Skopje youth system.

*****************************************************
  GEORGIA   


Georgian superleagues All Star 2009 - by Akaki Bakradze
David Ustiashvili's team
Starting lineup
Kote Tugushi (192-G-84) (Energy)-1367 voices
Giorgi Gaprindashvili (190-G-88, college: Midland CC) (TSU)-1351
Giorgi Markoishvili (200-G/F-83) (TSU)-1059
Zviad Antadze (Maccabi)-991
David Ugrekhelidze (207-C-83) (Energy)-963

Giorgi Gamqrelidze (183-G-86, agency: Limelight Hoops) (Energy)-1276
Shalva Kokhreidze (188-F-86) (TSU)-962
Mikheil Chochua (193-G-87) (Energy)-840
Kakha Shengelia (211-C-72) (MIA)-826
Fuad Niftaliyev (183-G-80) (NTD T.)-805
Plaside Rodumta (212-C-76) (NTD)-799
Besik Lezhava (193-G-86) (Energy)-759
Davit Barbakadze (204-F-82) (NTD)-735
Zaur Pashayev (186-G-83) (NTD)-681
Zviad Babiashvili (199-F-78) (Energy)-612
Talba Toudjani (201-F-80) (Energy)-605
Shalva Khetsuriani (195-G-83) (TSU)-593
Ilia Londaridze (Maccabi)-568
Anar Sariyev (193-G/F-81) (NTD)-467
Giorgi Jangveladze (Maccabi-454
Rezo Didia (203-F-87) (Energy)-444
Sergo Atuashvili (223-C-85) (NTD)-444
Tahir Bakhshiyev (200-F-82) (NTD)-399

Levan Moseshvili's team
Starting lineup
Givi Bakradze (185-G-91) (Dinamo)-1484
Irakli Gulisabedashvili (192-G-88) (GSAU)-1021
Anatoliy Boisa (195-G-83, agency: World Sport Agency, college: Lincoln Memorial) (Avia)-1175
Giorgi Barbakadze (203-F-91) (GSAU)-942
Richard Matiashvili (209-C-89) (Avia)-1142

Davit Berishvili (181-G-78) (Avia)-990
Beka Tsivtsivadze (190-G-89) (GSAU)-988
Davit Khaniashvili (195-G/F-89) (Dinamo)-937
Revaz Atanelishvili (208-C-86, agency: Interperformances) (GSAU)-882
Vakhtang Kadaria (205-C-89) (Dinamo)-842
Giorgi Pirvelashvili (201-F-88) (Avia)-780
Vakhtang Natsvlishvili (203-F-76) (Avia)-753
Giorgi Markhvashvili (190-G-83) (GSAU)-734
Tato Tavartkiladze (190-G-91) (Batumi)-696
Irakli Berishvili (181-G-78) (Avia)-676
Levan Tkeshelashvili (204-C-83) (GSAU)-644
Giorgi Nikoladze (185-G-78) (Avia)-611
Lekso Lapanashvili (196-G-87) (Dinamo)-579
Buba Kvimsadze (195-G-82) (Avia)-523
Lasha Keshelava (200-F-81) (Batumi)-480
Giorgiy Kvelashvili (205-F-81) (GSAU)-404
Tornike Niniashvili (202-C-82) (Avia)-387
Mamuka Bolkvadze (205-C-83) (Batumi)-330


2008-09 Final Results - by Akaki Bakradze
Quarterfinals
Energy Invest Rustavi vs. MIA 108 : 82 111 : 85
Avia Tbilisi vs. NTD Tbilisi 93 : 85 102 : 90
GSAU Tbilisi vs. Dinamo Tbilisi 95 : 74 82 : 78
TSU Tbilisi vs. Basco Batumi 104 : 80 103 : 73
Semifinals
Energy Invest Rustavi vs. Avia Tbilisi 68 : 74 93 : 90 86 : 77 103 : 67
GSAU Tbilisi vs. TSU Tbilisi 86 : 80 83 : 79 73 : 80 90 : 86
Third place
Avia Tbilisi vs. TSU Tbilisi 101 : 82
Final
Energy Invest Rustavi vs. GSAU Tbilisi 104 : 59 104 : 70 89 : 68

2009-05-24 SUPERCUP
Energy Invest Rustavi vs. Avia Tbilisi 71 : 76

Player of the year is Giorgi Gamqrelidze (183-G-86, agency: Limelight Hoops) (Energy Invest Rustavi)

Highest League Standing
Superleague Standings
 1. Energy Rustavi 16-0 
 2. GSAU Tbilisi 12-4 
 3. Avia Tbilisi 11-5 
 4. TSU Tbilisi 11-5 
 5. NTD Tbilisi 10-6 
 6. Basco Batumi 5-11 
 7. Dinamo Tbilisi 4-12 
 8. MIA Tbilisi 3-13 
 9. Maccabi Tbilisi 0-16 


2008-09 Season's Summary and Awards - by Akaki Bakradze
After the tournament in memory of Dudu Dadiani became clear that the Superleague's teams divided into several groups. Obvious leader was Energy- memorial tournaments winner and the autsider-Maccabi. Another group made up the teams that fought for access to the playoff- GSAU, TSU, Avia and NTD T. Other Teams- Dinamo, Batumi and MIA didnt have certain ambitions. Regular championship ended naturally-Energy didnt lose a match during the championship so in the playoffs. Second place won a championship debutant GSAU and third was Avia.
Dinamo, Batumi and Mia could not defeat their stronger opponents and Maccabi lost all matchs.
Georgian Cup just got Energy, defeated in the final game Avia. The only one game lost Energy with the same Avia and the defeat cost him the Super cup.

Season Awards:
Best player of Georgian Superleague: Giorgi Gamqrelidze (183-G-86, agency: Limelight Hoops) (Energy).
Coach of the Year: David Ustiashvili (Energy)
Best Forward: Giorgi Gamqrelidze (Energy)
Best Small Forward: Shalva Khetsuriani (195-G-83) (TSU)
Best Power forward: Vakhtang Natsvlishvili (203-F-76) (Avia)
Best Center: David Ugrekhelidze (Energy)
Opening of season: Givi Bakradze (185-G-91) (Dinamo) and GSAU


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


Dustin Pfeifer Looking To Lead The Giroballers Osnabrueck Into The BBL - by Miles Schmidt-Scheuber
Dustin Pfeifer (173-G-83, college: Findlay (OH))r is a 26 year old 173cm guard from Ohio. He went to Findlay (NCAA2) from 2002-2006. In his senior year, he played 30 games averaging 15.2ppg, 3rpg, 5.3apg, 3spg. He was GLIAC South Division Regular Season Champion, player of the year as well as being named to the all NCAA2 all defensive team in 2006. He then turned professional turning his back on the American leagues and going to Europe. His first destination was Denmark playing for Sjaelland playing 22 games and averaging 18ppg, 1.3rpg, 5.5apg, 2.8spg. In 2007-2008, he started with Benslips Baskets Salzkotten before moving to Hertener Lwen in the PRO B playing 11 games and averaging 19.0ppg, 3.5rpg, Assists-2 (6.8apg), Steals-2 (3.0spg), 2FGP-3 (67.5%), 3FGP: 30.0%, FT: 76.0%. Last season, he played for BV Chemnitz 99 in the PRO A playing 30 games averaging 14.5ppg, 3.5rpg, Assists-3 (5.6apg), Steals-3 (2.2spg), FGP: 56.3%, 3PT: 35.7%, FT: 73.5%. It is kind of a surprise after such good stats that he took a step back to play PRO B this season for the GiroLive-Ballers Osnabrueck. Dustin spoke to eurobasket during training camp.

Dustin, thanks for taking some time to talk to eurobasket. How has your summer been? What was one highlight of your summer that you will never forget?

My summer was great! I got to spend a lot of time with my family and was able to enjoy my hometown! The highlight of my summer was watching my two nieces grow up. I only get to see them for three months a year, so its a pleasure to be a part of their lives.

How does a normal workout day with conditioning and basketball look like for you?


I play in a summer league usually three times a week! I lift weights, go to the track, and concentrate on things like stretching each day!

After starting your professional basketball career in Denmark, you have played since 2007 in Germany. How is it for an American playing in Germany? What do you like most about Germany?


I feel as though Germany is one of the best up-and-coming leagues in Europe. For Americans, Germany is a good chance to showcase their talents at different levels. Germany is rich in history. I enjoy seeing things like the Berlin wall and the old roads built with brick! Its special for people of different cultures who get to experience Germany's history!

Last season, BV Chemnitz finished in seventh place. Why was the team not able to mix it up more at the top of the standings? You guys had a pretty solid roster with players like Nate Gerwig, Torvoris Baker, and Terren Harbut.


We had an up and down year. We had a ton of talent but could never put it together 100 percent. We lost games against teams below us in the standings which hurt our position! We had problems winning on the road as well, these things led to our seventh place position in the league.

You had a very good stat season last year at BV Chemnitz 99 in the PRO A playing 30 games and averaging14.5ppg, 3.5rpg, Assists-3 (5.6apg), Steals-3 (2.2spg), FGP: 56.3%, 3PT: 35.7%, FT: 73.5%. You moved on to the GiroLive-Ballers Osnabrueck. Was there any particular reason to switch?


The Ballers are a very ambitious organization! They want to move to the BBL, and they want to make steps forward each day to obtain that goal. We have an excellent coach and are making big steps as a team with the people we have to be a strong team in the Pro A, so I am looking forward to the season.

What I can never understand, why not more PRO A guards find employment in the BBL. There are so many good guards in the PRO A, but BBL teams seem to be getting many guys from the college ranks. Money cant be the only issue. Have you ever thought about this question?

I think about this questions every day. There were a lot of good guards in the Pro A last year! I cant answer the question why more guards dont move to the BBL from the Pro A, I can only hope to keep working hard to prove I can play in the BBL.

Chemnitz is in the east of Germany and since almost 20 years part of one Germany. Has there been any distinctive differences between Chemnitz and the area around Osnabruck?



Chemnitz was more of an older city compared to Osnabruck! I feel like Osnabruck is more compared with the United States as far as business and culture! The language is very different as well.

How has training camp been this summer and how is the team shaping up?


Training camp has been really good! Our team is working really hard on the basics of basketball and conditioning. We have a great group of guys with a lot of talent. With hard work, we should be a very good team this year!

What will your role be in the team. You showed in Chemnitz that you can score, but also dish out the assists. Do you see yourself playing like you did at Chemnitz or will you get added or different duties?

I think I will have the same roll. I will do what the team needs me to do in order to win week in and week out!

What is more natural for you, to score or to make the extra pass instead of scoring?

Making the extra pass is more natural for me! As a point guard, I have to be able to get my team mates involved before I score, because if the point guard doesnt have the support of his team, that point guard wont be a good player!

The team has 3 Americans and eight Germans. But two of the Germans have known names. Jan Rohdewald has had a long and successful BBL career that is slowly coming to an end. He could be the vocal leader in the team. Have you been impressed by his three pointer? What is your overall impression of him?

Jan is a great guy. I think he is really American because he is very familiar with our culture. He will be one of the best shooters in the league this year! He is experienced and knows the game of basketball. I feel like our team is lucky to have signed such a player!

The coach is Serbian Dragon Torbica. What is it like playing for him? What kind of style of basketball does he want to play this season?



Our coach is full of basketball knowledge. He has taught our team things that have improved each one of our games. He is a tough coach that knows what he wants. He wants to play fast basketball but at the same time he wants us to be smart if that style doesnt work at that particular moment!

You grew up in Ohio. What was your childhood like?



My childhood was great! I have a big family that is very close to each other so that made things good for me. When you have a great support system, life is good!

Who were your basketball idols growing up?



Actually, I didnt have any basketball idols growing up! I dont look up to players and try to be like them. I respect a number of players games and try to take different moves from them! My father was the only person I have ever looked upon to be my idol! I watched him play basketball for years, and how he handled different situations in basketball on and off the court!

You played at Findlay in Ohio in the NCAA2. In your senior year, you averaged 15.2ppg, 3rpg, 5.3apg, 3spg. Were you ever dissappointed that you didnt play at the NCAA level?


No, I had a great career at the University of Findlay! I wanted to compete for a national championship, and you cant do that by going to a little Div 1 school. Findlay is now on one of the best Div 2 schools in the nation! They won the National Championship last year, so I am proud of being a Findlay alum.

What was your biggest achievement at Findlay on the court?


My biggest achievement was being able to collect the records that I did. I ended up being the leader in all-time assists, steals and 9th in scoring! My record while I was there was 103 wins and 24 loses in my career! These particular things are my biggest achievements at the University of Findlay.

Whow as the best player that you ever competed against that might be in the NBA or Europe now?



I played against LeBron James when I was in high school at a 5 star basketball camp, I think he takes the cake. haha

Your first professional basketball season was in Denmark where you averaged 18ppg, 1.3rpg, 5.5apg, 2.8spg. Is the Danish league the same as the PRO A or somewhere between PRO A and BBL. How was it playing there?

I think the Danish league has only a couple of teams that could compete in the PRO A. I would say it is between the PRO A and the PRO B.

Recently you signed a shoe in a pub in Germany. The guy knew no English. Who did he think you were?lol

I think he was just a fan of Osnabruck! It was a memorable moment that I will be able to look back on and smile at!

What was the most crazy shot you ever took in a game or practice?


I shot the ball from behind the backboard during a game and made it, it didnt count, but it looked good.


What are your hobbies?

I like to play video games, tennis, really anything that is competitive is what I enjoy

Thanks Dustin for talk. Good luck this season in the PRO A with Osnabruck.
Thank you for your time Miles.

Le Mans grabs 61-60 win against ALBA, including 15-0 run at the very beginning - by Eurobasket News
LE MANS SARTHE BASKET - ALBA BERLIN 61-60

Le Mans celebrated one-point win in the first game of Euroleague Qualifications against ALBA Berlin. The second meeting is scheduled for Friday, when German runner-up will be the host. Both teams will have a chance, but it seems that the Germans did pretty good job today in France. Marc Salyers (205-F-79, college: Samford) was totally the best player for the winners. He spent 33 minutes on the court draining 28 points. Joao Lopes Batista (207-F/C-81, college: Gonzaga) followed him with 13 points, plus 6 rebounds and Le Mans did not have any other player with more than 5 pts. In ALBA, Adam Chubb (207-F/C-81, agency: Pro One Sports, college: Pennsylvania) shined with 16 points and 5 rebounds. Julius Jenkins (187-G-81, agency: Pro One Sports, college: Georgia Southern) delivered 15 pts.
Le Mans had magnificent beginning. After four minutes of play Marc Salyers and his teammates already had 10-0 and they didn't stop. Salyers scored a basket and Spencer connected a triple for 15-0 with 3 minutes to go in the first period. ALBA players were shocked and scoreless until that time, but they somehow managed to close the gap on 17-7 after 10 minutes. The Germans were slightly better in the second frame, what resulted with 34-27 at the HT. After the breather ALBA continued with melting the Le Mans lead coming to 47-42 and later to 51-48. Thanks to wonderful 0-11 run at the beginning of the last period, ALBA jumped to 53-59. Still, Marc Salyers and Joao Lopes Batista helped Le Mans to make a turn and to grab 1-point at the very end.

Le Mans: Marc Salyers 28, Joao Lopes Batista 13+6 boards
ALBA: Adam Chubb 16+5 boards, Julius Jenkins 15


UBC Tigers Hannover Get Anthony Slack - by Miles Schmidt-Scheuber
The UBC Tigers Hannover hope that they will get some 'Slack attack' from Anthony Slack (202-F/C-84, college: Illinois St.) as they signed him to a contract. He wont be an unknown person to new teammate Emmanuel Holloway as they both roomed together at Illinois State. Slack is a 24 year old 202cm power forward/ center from New Orleans, Lousiana. He played in the Ukraine last season for Gryfony Symferopil in the second league playing 32 games averaging 12.7ppg, Reb-5 (6.8rpg), 1.7apg, Steals-5 (1.8spg), 1.2bpg, FGP: 65.1%, 3PT: 20.0%, FT: 59.3. Coach Mahmut Ataman is happy about getting the American. 'Anthony is perfect for our rotation and will give us the needed power and stability under the boards', commented Coach Ataman. He had asolid career at Illionis State playing 33 games in his senior year averaging 9.5ppg, 7.1rpg, 1.0spg, 1.4bpg, FGP: 66.0%, FT: 52.0%.
Source: www.ubctigers.de

BBL inks Beko deal - by Manuel Schust
Back in the beginning of the century the BBL had it all: A TV deal with german sports cable channel DSF, a weekly magazine on another big station plus major sponsor deals.
All that was lost in the last few years with no major league sponsors and no deal for free tv as well.
If you wanted to see german basketball on your tv you either had to subsribe to pay tv (Premiere from 2005-2007) or watch the games via internet stream with costs (bbl.tv from 2007-2009).
Just a few weeks after the league announced a three year deal with cable station DSF that guarantees the airing of at least 50 games per season, another deal was revealed today.
After the league was called Veltins BBL in the 90s and s.Oliver BBL some years ago now one should really get used to the name Beko BBL.
Because this European producer for domestic appliance agreed to a six-year partnership with the german basketball league. Just like the Turkish league the german league will be named after sponsor Beko.
The name Beko will be seen in the modified BBL logo, on the teams jerseys and on numerous places in the arenas.


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  GREECE   


Aris outsmarts Maroussi 69-67 thanks to triple by Chatzivrettas - by Eurobasket News
ARIS BSA - BC MAROUSSI 69-67

Aris grabbed tiny 69-67 win in Game 1 of Euroleague Qualifications. This is just the first part as second game is scheduled for Friday. Aris has 2-point lead, but next game will be played at the Maroussi's home court. Andrew Betts (216-C-77, college: Long Beach St.) was a key player in Aris collecting 23 points and 11 rebounds. Keydren Clark (173-G-84, college: St.Peter's) also had important role with 15, while Nikos Chatzivrettas (195-G-77) added one point less. In Maroussi, Jared Homan (206-C-83, college: Iowa St.) nailed 13 points and pulled down 10 rebounds. William Amar Keys (188-G-77, college: N.Mexico St.) delivered 10 pts. Maroussi had impressive first, while Aris answered in the second quarter. After opening ten minutes Jared Homan and his teammates created nice 9-17 lead. At the beginning of the second period Maroussi touched plus 10 couple of times. However, the hosts woke up after that tying the score to 29-29 with one minute left in the first half. Thanks to free throw by Quinton, Aris was one point up after 20 minutes. Third period belonged to Maroussi 22-23, meaning that the teams started from zero in the last quarter. There, Aris had plus 6 and later Maroussi grabbed 3-point lead. In the finish Aris managed to make a turn and thanks to triple by Nikos Chatzivrettas to end this game with 69-67.

Aris: Andrew Betts 23+11 boards, Keydren Clark 15, Nikos Chatzivrettas 14
Maroussi: Jared Homan 13+10 boards, William Amar Keys 10

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


WCAA Giants head-coach Erik Braal, "You can expect an ambitious team, hungry for metal" - by Fred Roggen
Before the basketball season got under way, I had a chance to speak with World Class Aviation Academy Giants head-coach Eric Braal about the previous and the upcoming season and his thoughts about some of his players.

Talk about last season, review it. How did everything go?
Last season ended on a good note. Despite all the changes in the team we played the semi-final against Amsterdam. We had to beat the best team overall in the Netherlands, we managed to keep in close. But keeping it close is something different than winning the series.

In hindsight is there anything you would have done differently in the semi-final games against Amsterdam?
No, we worked together and we worked hard in that serie. Amsterdam had quality players on every position and proved to be the best team in the Netherlands that season. Because of the circumstances throughout the season we asked a lot from Patrick and Tim. I think that might have played a role in the play-offs.

How influential do you consider your coaching style to be on the team's mentality?
You should ask the players or people in the organization, they can judge this better than me.

Could you talk about Bryan Defares and what you expect form him this season
We were looking for quality players with Dutch nationality. And with Bryan we added a quality player and a quality person. It is great to have him on the team. He helps with his experience and overall play. He is a teamplayer with courtvision. Together with Jesse we have a very good backcourt.

On Brandon Griffin and his return:
Brandon is a great addition to the team. He can change the game on the defensive end, and he really prides himself in doing that. We value defense very much. Brandon wanted to come back to Bergen op Zoom, we wanted Brandon to be on the team. Because of his work ethic he is a fan-favorite. So it made a lot of sense to have him on the team again.

On Alvin Slagter and his development:
Arvin played very well with the National Team this summer. Seeing him play that way made me really happy that he is on our team. I know Arvin for many years and every year he made progression in his play. I expect him to play a big role for us this season. He still has room for development. Having Herman van den Belt with us, will help Arvin too.

What is the key defensively of how you get that done?
The key defensively is intensity. If we want to be special this season we have to go out every night and put our heart in it.

On the offense
The same as in defense. If you do things with passion and intensity you will have the biggest chance of succeeding.

What are your feelings about how pr season has been thus far?
We made progression as a team in how we play both offensively and defensively. There is a lot of room for improvement though both individually and as a team.

What do you think about the depth of the roster right now?
We have good players on all positions. Now with the injury of Jordan Collins and Thomas Koenis we are shorthanded on the inside positions. This is always the balance and challenge between ambition and budget.

What can we expect from the Giants when they take the floor in the '09-10?
You can expect an ambitious team, hungry for metal.

What one or two things are most important for the Giants to do well to have success in the upcoming season?
We have to stay healthy. With 10 players on the (practice)floor we can develop in all areas we need to develop in. For us it will be important to become better step by step, day by day. And the second things is to have a much better home-record than last season. Last season in away games we were in the same group as Amsterdam and Den Bosch (top 3), but in home games
we finished 6th. Our fans are great and deserve a much better record and they will help us to make the Boulevard a very tough place to play in for opponents.

Is this team getting close to what you would consider the ideal team?
If we make the progression that Herman and I have in mind, and the team expects of itself, than this will be a great team. It has the ability and opportunity to be historical in World Class Aviation Academy history.

Erik, thanks for taking the time to do this interview and wish you and the team a great season.


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


Market movements - by Tamas Deri
The management of Dombovar did not keep Craig Austin (208-C/F-85, college: Point Loma) after his tryout and signed Jones Jonathan (211-C-79, agency: Gross Zeev ISA) for the upcoming season. The 211 cm tall american big man played already last season for the team but left only after one game because of a very great deal in Korea. Jones is a very experienced player, played already in the USBL, CBA, D-League, Germany, Finland, Cyprus, Israel and Korea.

PVSK-Pannonpower and Ivan Perincic (208-F-77, agency: Agency No 10) agreed to break the contract because of player's injury already last week. The management was looking around on the market for a new player and could make an agreement with argentinian power forward, Fabricio Vay (206-F-86, agency: Interperformances). The 206 cm tall, 23 years old player started his professional carreer in Argentina and played his first european season mainly with the junior team of ACB taam Valencia in Spain. He spent also two seasons in Italy, after he signed Traiskirchen in Austria, where he also spent his last two seasons. In 2008-09 he averaged 17.4ppg, 6.6rpg, 2.9apg, 1.1spg, 2FGP: 53.0%, 3PT: 26.6%, FT: 80.6% in 37 games.

Edmund Saunders (203-F/C-78, college: Connecticut) and the management of DEKE agreed to break player's contract. The american big man left the team already, so the management had to find an other center for coach'c Fodor team. Salih Nuhanovic (210-C-82) signed a one year deal with the team and arrived to the city on sunday. The 210 cm tall slovenian big man started his professional carreer with Elektra in Slovenia and signed a three years deal with Pivovarna Lasko during the summer 2006. He used to be a member of the U-18 and U-20 national team and played twice on the slovenian all-star game.


The last pre-season games - by Tamas Deri
In only four more days the regular season will start, but some of the teams are still playing pre-season games and testing new players.

Kaposvar beat Dombovar by 20 points, Jones Jonathan (211-C-79, agency: Gross Zeev ISA) was the best scorer with 31 points. Joseph Taylor (203-F-85, college: Wyoming) had 19 on the home team.

Kaposvari KK - Dombovar KC 100-80
(29-23, 23-17, 24-12, 24-28)
Kaposvari KK: Prejean 17/6, Vojvoda 15/12, Soos 15/9, David 12/3, Taylor 19/9, Orosz 4, Hendlein 9/3, Kovats R. 5/3, Kiss K. 4/3, Kovacs D., Coach: Fekete Adam
Dombovar KC: Legrange 13, Spencer 15/15, Deak 6/3, Jones Jonathan 31, Panta 8/6, Gubi 2, Klir, Csirke 5/3, Coach: Balind Jozsef

The team of Falco is on a shourt tour in the Czech Republic and played against Pardubice tonight.

BK Pardubice - Falco-SZOVA KC Szombathely 106-69
(33-9, 18-24, 29-18, 26-18)
Pardubice: HAMPTON 18/6, Pospisil 4, WRIGHT 16/3, Milos 14/12, ARNOLD 27. Csere: Sykora 12/12, Spacek 2, Bohacik 4, Marek 7/3, Voslajer , Toth 2.
Falco: Kalman 10, Morris 15/3, Wilson 7, Kazlauskas 14/6, Horvath Z. 9, Borszeki 8/6, Pankar 6/6, Feigl, Hajmasy, Coach: Deri Csaba



Marso-Vagep NYKK - Debreceni EKE 90-87
 (18-16, 27-30, 21-14, 24-27)
NYKK: Donte Gennie (185-G-83, college: Georgia Southern) 16, Siska 2, Dasics 16/6, Sitku 11/3, Jeffrey Ferguson (210-F/C-81, college: Wayne St., MI) 21/3, Lekli 11/3, M. Pavlovic 5, Szarvas 6, Nagy K. 2, Mohacsi
DEKE: Daniel Takacs (198-F-86) 20, Jeremy Fears (196-G-85, college: Bradley) 18/6, Farmer 17/6, Cziczas 10/6, Coach: Fodor Peter


Fabricio Vay Joins PVSK Pannonpower Pecs - by Interperformances
6'9'' guard/small forward Fabricio Vay (206-F-86, agency: Interperformances) has signed a deal with PVSK Pannonpower Pecs in the Hungarian first league. Fabricio was born in Argentina but has a Bosman A passport. He is only 23 years old but has already played in several such as the NBA Development League, the Spanish ACB and the Italian LegaDue. Last season Fabricio played for Arkadia Traiskirchen Lions in the Austian A Bundesliga, where he averaged 17.2 ppg, grabbing 6.6 rebounds. This is a great opportunity for the member of the Argentinian National team, considering that Pecs is the champion of the Hungarian League Regular Season 2008/09.

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  ISRAEL   


Adi Pereg is back to Hapoel Holon - by Eurobasket News
Adi Pereg (186-G-79) signed a contract with Hapoel Holon. The player used to play for the team during 2005/06 and 06/07 seasons. He averaged 15.3 points per game in those championships for Holon. Adi Pereg then moved to Maccabi Haifa. Last season Adi Pereg appeared in Hapoel Afula. The 30-year-old guard averaged 16.1 points, 2.9 assists and 2.1 boards per game there.


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  ITALY   


Top Interperformances players still on the market! - by Interperformances
As of today September 29th, Interperformances is glad to announce that it has already placed over 70 percent of its players. We still however have very interesting players available. Among the others:

Point Guards:
Jermaine Jackson (195-G-76, college: Detroit Mercy) (Udine-Italy Serie A)
Rashid Atkins (182-G-75, college: St.Joseph's) (Galatasaray-Turkey TBL)
Greg Grays (185-G-79, college: Detroit Mercy) (Givat Shmuel-Israeli Premier League)
Lucas Victoriano (190-G-77) (Zaragoza Spain ACB)
Torey Thomas (180-G-85, college: Holy Cross) (Capitals Holland Eredevisie)

Guards:
Alexandre Garcia (191-G-80) (200-G-88) (Maccabi - Israeli Premier League)
Monty Mack (191-G-77, college: Massachusetts) (Selcuk Universitesi-TurkeyTBL)
Kevin Houston (193-G/F-76, college: St.Bonaventure) (PezinokSlovakia Extraliga)
Vidas Ginevicius (193-G-78) (Vladivostok-Russia A Superleague)
Colin Falls (196-G-85, college: Notre Dame) (Prostejov-Czech Republic NBL)

Small Forwards:
Oscar Torres (195-F/G-76) (Udine -Italy Serie A)
Winsome Frazier (193-G/F-82, college: Mississippi St.) (Telekom Bonn-Germany Bundesliga)
Reggie Williams (194-F-86 college: VMI) (JDA Dijon-France ProA)
Ilian Evtimov (201-F-83 college: N.Carolina St.) (Frankfurt-Germany Bundesliga)
Alex Righetti (198-G/F-77) (Virtus Bologna Italy SerieA)
Rodrigo De La Fuente (200-F-76 college: Washington) (Virtus Roma Italy SerieA)
Elvir Ovcina (212-F/C-76, college: Syracuse) (Bosna BIH/Adriatic League)
Stevan Milosevic (211-C-85) (Koeln Germany Bundeslinga)

Power Forward/Centers:
Virgil Stanescu (207-C/F-77, college: S.Alabama) (Samara-Russia A Superleague)
Vassil Evtimov (207-C/F-77, college: N.Carolina) (Reggio Emilia - LegaDue)
Elton Tyler (205-F/C-79, college: Miami, FL) (Pistoia-Italy LegaDue)
Aerick Sanders (203-F-82, college: San Diego St.) (Aliaga- Turkey TBL)
Gregor Fucka (214-C-71) (Fortitudo Bologna Italy Serie A)

These and several other very interesting quality players could be in usefull in turning around the season for your club this year..

Benetton starts Euroleague campaign - by Gianni Pascucci
This evening in Riga Benetton Treviso plays Latvian titleholders of BK Ventspils in Euroleague qualifier series Game 1. Game 2 will played in Treviso on Friday, Oct. 1. Given that its roster is filled of young and promising domestic players, led by Daniel Hackett (196-G-87, college: USC), who debuts at senior level in Europe, Benetton is one of the most intriguing Italian teams of this season. The same can be said for Ventspils, that is another youthful team, where only import Aaron Pettway (211-C-80, agency: Hart Sports Mngm, college: Oklahoma St.) is over 25 years old. The hopes are high in Treviso, on paper Benetton is favourite, but European basketball can be very upsetting sometimes. Let's see...

Ventspils celebrates 78-73 win against Benetton in Game 1 - by Eurobasket News
BK VENTSPILS - BENETTON BASKET TREVISO 78-73

Ventspils demonstrated nice performance in the first game of Euroleague qualifications against the Italian Benetton. The Latvian squad grabbed 78-73 win, but there is at least 40 more minutes to be played on Friday in Treviso. Plus five could be enough for Ventspils, but on the other side Benetton is for sure capable to register even better victory. The game will start at 20:45h. Today, Aaron Pettway (211-C-80, agency: Hart Sports Mngm, college: Oklahoma St.) shined for the hosts with monster double-double, 20 points and 17 rebounds. Mareks Jurevicus (198-G/F-85) had 13 points and 7 boards, while Dairis Bertans (192-G/F-89) added 12 pts. Janis Strelnieks (191-G-89) helped the winners with 11 points. In Benetton, Daniel Hackett (196-G-87, college: USC) drained 13 pts. Gary Neal (193-G-84, college: Towson) had 11 points and 10 rebounds, while Sandro Nicevic (210-C-76, agency: Beo Basket) also scored 11.
Ventspils was the team who dominated in this first half. Latvians opened this game with 7-2, but Benetton made 15-16 turn very soon. Until the end of the first period Aaron Pettway and his teammates created 12-1 run for 27-17. In the second period Ventspils touched plus 11 twice, but Benetton did not give up closing the gap to 33-30. However, Ventspils had another great finish and in just few minutes made 14-4 run setting the score to 47-34 at the HT. Third period was pretty leveled and Ventspils had 68-56 after it. At that point it seemed that the hosts will register comfortable win, but Benetton players shined when it was the most important and after basket by Sandro Nicevic came to 75-73 with one minute remaining. Dairis Bertans and Mareks Jurevicus closed the game with free throws for the final 78-73.

Ventspils: Aaron Pettway 20+17 boards, Mareks Jurevicus 13+7 boards, Dairis Bertans 12, Janis Strelnieks 11
Benetton: Daniel Hackett 13, Gary Neal 11+10 boards, Sandro Nicevic 11


*****************************************************
  JAMAICA   


Standings
NBL Standings
Central Conf.
 1. Team Aaah 0-0 
 2. Nain-More-Ups 0-0 
 3. Victory 0-0 
 4. Spauldings H. 0-0 
 5. Manchester P. 0-0 
Eastern Conf.
 1. Yallas 0-0 
 2. Buff Bay H. 0-0 
 3. Portland P. 0-0 
 4. Morant Bay 0-0 
 5. Pure Playaz 0-0 
Southern Conf.
 1. Majestic G. 0-0 
 2. Portmore F. 0-0 
 3. Port Royal 0-0 
 4. Braves C. 0-0 
 5. Urban K. 0-0 
 6. Tivoli Wizards 0-0 
 7. Arnett GR 0-0 
 8. Slayers 0-0 
 9. Blazing P. 0-0 
 10. Selassie GL 0-0 
 11. Runnin' R. 0-0 
 12. JDF 0-0 
Western Conf.
 1. Hoopers 0-0 
 2. Innercity A. 0-0 
 3. Granville J. 0-0 
 4. Catherine AS. 0-0 
 5. Sav Hawks 0-0 


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


Ventspils celebrates 78-73 win against Benetton in Game 1 - by Eurobasket News
BK VENTSPILS - BENETTON BASKET TREVISO 78-73

Ventspils demonstrated nice performance in the first game of Euroleague qualifications against the Italian Benetton. The Latvian squad grabbed 78-73 win, but there is at least 40 more minutes to be played on Friday in Treviso. Plus five could be enough for Ventspils, but on the other side Benetton is for sure capable to register even better victory. The game will start at 20:45h. Today, Aaron Pettway (211-C-80, agency: Hart Sports Mngm, college: Oklahoma St.) shined for the hosts with monster double-double, 20 points and 17 rebounds. Mareks Jurevicus (198-G/F-85) had 13 points and 7 boards, while Dairis Bertans (192-G/F-89) added 12 pts. Janis Strelnieks (191-G-89) helped the winners with 11 points. In Benetton, Daniel Hackett (196-G-87, college: USC) drained 13 pts. Gary Neal (193-G-84, college: Towson) had 11 points and 10 rebounds, while Sandro Nicevic (210-C-76, agency: Beo Basket) also scored 11.
Ventspils was the team who dominated in this first half. Latvians opened this game with 7-2, but Benetton made 15-16 turn very soon. Until the end of the first period Aaron Pettway and his teammates created 12-1 run for 27-17. In the second period Ventspils touched plus 11 twice, but Benetton did not give up closing the gap to 33-30. However, Ventspils had another great finish and in just few minutes made 14-4 run setting the score to 47-34 at the HT. Third period was pretty leveled and Ventspils had 68-56 after it. At that point it seemed that the hosts will register comfortable win, but Benetton players shined when it was the most important and after basket by Sandro Nicevic came to 75-73 with one minute remaining. Dairis Bertans and Mareks Jurevicus closed the game with free throws for the final 78-73.

Ventspils: Aaron Pettway 20+17 boards, Mareks Jurevicus 13+7 boards, Dairis Bertans 12, Janis Strelnieks 11
Benetton: Daniel Hackett 13, Gary Neal 11+10 boards, Sandro Nicevic 11


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


Lakers sign four to training camp roster - by Eurobasket News
The Los Angeles Lakers have signed forwards Tony Gaffney (6'8''-F-84, college: Massachusetts), David Monds (6'9''-F-83, college: Oklahoma St.), Mickael Gelabale (6'7''-F-83) and Michael Fey (7'0''-F/C-83, agency: Passing Lane, college: UCLA), as announced (on Monday). Per team policy, terms of the agreements were not released.

Gaffney, an undrafted forward out of Massachusetts, finished his senior year at UMASS averaging a double-double with 11.5 points and 10.2 rebounds per game. The 6-8 forward was ranked 3rd in the nation in blocked shots (3.8) and was named the 2009 Atlantic 10 Defensive Player of the Year. Most recently Gaffney was a member of the 2009 Lakers summer league team where he averaged 3.8 points and 2.8 rebounds in four games played.

Monds, a 6-9 forward out of Oklahoma State, was a member of the Lakers 2009 summer league squad where he scored 14.0 points and pulled down 5.2 rebounds in five games. The Georgia native spent last season playing in the NBA Development League as a member of the Albuquerque Thunderbirds where he averaged 13.4 points and 9.6 rebounds before finishing out the season with the Dakota Wizards.

Gelabale, a 6-7 forward from France, finished the 2008-09 season as a member of the Los Angeles D-Fenders where he averaged 16.0 points and 4.3 rebounds in six games played. Prior to his stint in the NBA D-League, Gelabale spent two seasons (2006-08) with the Seattle SuperSonics where he averaged 4.5 points and 2.1 rebounds in 15.6 minutes.

Fey, a 7-0 forward/center out of UCLA, played all four seasons at UCLA where he averaged 5.2 points and 2.7 rebounds while shooting 54.6% from the field. The former Bruin spent the 2008-09 season playing for Al Shabab (United Arab Emirates).

The Lakers training camp roster now stands at 17 players.

Courtesy of www.thelakersnation.com


76ers add four free agents to training camp roster - by Eurobasket News
The 76ers announced today they have signed four free agents in preparation for training camp, which begins tomorrow at St. Joe's. As previously reported, the Sixers will bring in Brandon Bowman (6'9''-F-84, agency: David Lee services, college: Georgetown), Dionte Christmas (6'5''-G, agency: Buck Andre), and Sean Singletary (6'0''-G-85, college: Virginia). They will also bring in Stromile Swift (6'9''-F-79, college: LSU), a 6-foot-10 forward, a nine-year veteran who was the No. 2 overall pick in the 2000 NBA Draft. In 547 career games he has averaged 8.4 points, 4.6 rebounds and 1.25 blocks in 19.8 minutes a game. Last season, Swift appeared in 19 total games for New Jersey and Phoenix.
Earlier this month the Philadelphia 76ers signed free agent swingman Rodney Carney (6'7''-F-84, college: Memphis) a year after trading him away. Carney spent last season with the Minnesota Timberwolves, averaging 7.2 points and 1.9 rebounds in 67 games including six starts. The 76ers acquired Carney in a draft-night trade in 2006 after he was selected 16th overall by Chicago. After two seasons with the Sixers Philadelphia traded him to Minnesota along with Calvin Booth in July 2008. General manager Ed Stefanski says Carney's athleticism will fit the up-tempo style favored by new coach Eddie Jordan.

Stephen Jackson wants out of Golden State - by Eurobasket News
On this rainy and dreary day in New York City this afternoon, Stephen Jackson (6'8''-F-78, college: Butler Co.CC) and Al Harrington (6'9''-F-80) were at South Street Seaport for a block party put on by their sneaker company Protege. One of the MCs at the event asked Stack Jack in front of the crowd whether he thought the Warriors were going to make the playoffs. Jackson paused then smiled before responding, UmI dont think Ill be a Warrior next year. Im looking to leave.

Harrington, who was standing beside Jackson, was gleaming with joy at this statement. As you all know, the two were teammates with each other for the Warriors and Harrington left on bad terms with the team - particularly Don Nelson. I asked Harrington if Jacksons statement shocked him. He laughed then responded, No I wasnt surprised. We talk all the time so I knew already. Honestly sometimes you need a change and I hope this change is to come out to New York - that would be nice.

After they posed for pictures with fans, I was able to ask Jackson more about his bold statement.

Dime: You made a big declaration earlier today by saying you wanted out of Golden State. When did you decide this?
Stephen Jackson: Its not about a decision I made. Its just things are in the air right now. I really cant get too much into it right now, but Im just looking to go somewhere where I can go and win a championship.

Dime: Are the Warriors aware of this?
SJ: Yeah they all know.

Dime: Is there anywhere specifically you want to go?
SJ: Either Cleveland, anywhere in Texas or out here with Al in New York.

Dime: So what have you been up to this offseason?
SJ: I have a foundation. I opened a school, The Stephen Jackson academy in my hometown so thats the big thing Ive been doing this summer. I had my second annual foundation banquet. So its been a great summer for me, I got married this summer, so God has been good to me.

Dime: You look a lot bigger and stronger. Whos been training you?
SJ: Well, basically Ive been playing a lot with Monta Ellis. I just play all year round, thats the biggest thing with me. I really dont do too much. One-on-one, working out with guys and running up hills, stuff like that I just play basketball. You know and it keeps me in shape. I love the game so I respect it.

Dime: Speaking of Monta, do you think he can play in the same backcourt with Stephen Curry?
SJ: I think so, because Currys more of an off guard and Monta is more of a point guard. But the way Don Nelson coaches and that style of play - anybody can fit in. Especially a shooter like Stephen Curry. So hell be fine.

Dime: Did you like being in Nellies system?
SJ: I loved it. It gave me a chance to show everything I could do on the court. It was great for me, but at this point, Im 31 years old. I have four or five years left, I want to be in a situation where I can continually be in the playoffs and get another ring. So thats where my mind is at now.

Courtesy of www.dimemag.com


Grizzlies and Marko Jaric to part ways - by Eurobasket News
The Memphis Grizzlies today announced that they have mutually agreed to allow guard Marko Jaric (6'6''-G-78) to not join the team for training camp and the preseason, and have provided permission for Jaric's agent to seek a roster spot with another team.

With the offseason additions of Allen Iverson, Marcus Williams and Sam Young, our backcourt has become crowded, Grizzlies General Manager and Vice President of Basketball Operations Chris Wallace said. Therefore, we have agreed with Marko Jaric and his representatives that he is permitted to seek out another situation that will provide him with a better opportunity to play. Marko is a proven NBA player and is deserving of such an opportunity.

Marko Jaric, a seven-year NBA veteran, owns career averages of 7.1 points, 2.7 rebounds and 3.6 assists in 25.2 minutes in 447 games with the Los Angeles Clippers, Minnesota Timberwolves and last season with the Grizzlies. Memphis acquired the 6-7, 224-pound guard, along with the draft rights to O.J. Mayo, Greg Buckner and Antoine Walker in exchange for the draft rights to Kevin Love, Mike Miller, Brian Cardinal and Jason Collins on June 26, 2008. Jaric was originally selected by the Clippers in the second round of the 2000 NBA Draft (30th overall) and played six years professionally in Europe before making his NBA debut in 2002.

Courtesy of www.insidehoops.com


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


Alabama forward Jemison to miss entire season - by Eurobasket News
Alabama forward Demetrius Jemison (6'8''-F) will miss the entire season with a ruptured Achilles tendon.

The injury was confirmed by an MRI on Sunday. It will require surgery to repair.

The senior sustained the injury on his left leg during a team workout on Saturday. He's set to undergo surgery on Tuesday to repair the damaged tendon.

Jemison appeared 28 times last seasin averaging 3.1 ppg. He also had 3.1 rpg beside that.

Courtesy of www.whnt.com


Tennessee forward Negedu stable after collapsing at practice - by Eurobasket News
Tennessee officials say forward Emmanuel Negedu (6'7''-F-88) is in stable condition after collapsing during practice.

The 6-foot-7, 218-pound, 20-year-old sophomore from Kaduna, Nigeria, collapsed during a Monday afternoon practice and was taken to the University of Tennessee Medical Center.

Associate athletic trainer Chad Newman says Negedu will be kept overnight for observations. Tennessee officials did not know what caused him to collapse.

As a freshman, Negedu played in 33 games, averaging 7.2 minutes, 1.9 rebounds and 1.7 points per game.

Meanwhile, Tennessee coach Bruce Pearl apologized for a joking remark that linked the rural home of one his players to the Ku Klux Klan.

The Volunteers fifth-season coach was caught on camera Thursday by WBIR-TV during a charity fundraising event describing the challenge of shaping a team of players from different backgrounds.

Courtesy of www.usatoday.com


*****************************************************
  PANAMA   


Caimanes came back to the win - by Gianni Pascucci
After falling two times to Navieros, Caimanes came back to the win, defeating Canguros de Parque Lefevre, 104-101 after an overtime yesterday night. With a monstrous performing for 42 points, 8 rebounds, 4 assists, 1 steal, Ernesto Oglivie (199-F-89) was the game MVP. Recently added Jimmy Allen (185-G-79) was the second best scorer with 18 pts, and Gonzalo Ortiz (203-C-75) added 14 pts and 13 rebs at the winning side, while Randy Lay (180-G-80) scored 22 pts and dished 5 assists for Canguros, and Joel Munoz (179-G-80) scored 15 pts in losing effort.


Standings - CBS
CBS Standings
 1. Navieros 5-1 
 2. Caimanes 5-2 
 3. Canguros 4-3 
 4. Magnates 2-3 
 5. Fieras 2-4 
 6. Colosos 0-5 


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


Salerno added to Frost Heaves coaching staff - by Gianni Pascucci
Head Coach Jeff Strohm has selected Barre, VT native Joseph P. Salerno to be his first assistant coach for the Frost Heaves upcoming 2010 Premier Basketball League Season. Salerno, most recently has been the head Boys Basketball Coach at Montpelier High School where he led his team to a final four appearance in just his second year as head coach and was named the Capital League Coach of the Year. Salerno was also selected as Head Coach of the Vermont Men's team for the 2009 VT/NH Merchants Bank Twin State Rotary Classic. Salerno became only the 11th coach in the games 29-year history to lead the Vermont Mens team to a victory over New Hampshire. He was also the youngest coach at the age of 27 to accomplish this feat.

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


Brent Benson trains with Asseco Prokom - by Eurobasket News
Asseco Prokom is looking for the improvement of their backcourt. They have recently invited Brent Benson (185-G-85, college: Texas St.-San Marcos) on try-outs. The 23-year-old guard graduated from Texas State University, San Marcos. He averaged 15.4 points, 2.8 boards and 1.5 assists per game in the senior season. Brent Benson earned the Southland Conference Honorable Mention in 2009.


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


Fabio Lima in Illibaum, Joao Abreu leaves Ovarense - by Eurobasket News
Fabio Lima (196-C-88) signed a contract with Illibaum. The 21-year-old centre spent the previous season in Spain. He averaged 6.7 points and 2.7 boards per game for Merida. Fabio Lima was the member of Portuguese U18 and U20 selections.
Joao Abreu (179-G-83) decided to leave Ovarense. The 26-year-old guard is expected to return to Oliveirense. Joao Abreu played for the team from 2000 through 2006. He joined Ovarense in 2007. Abreu averaged 1.8 points per game for Ovarense over the last two seasons.


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


Ivan Radenovic joins CSKA - by Eurobasket News
Ivan Radenovic (208-F-84, college: Arizona) will play in CSKA Moscow. The 25-year-old forward signed a one-year contract with the Russian powerhouse today. CSKA entered the market after injuries plagued the squad. Smodis, Khryapa and Kaun were sidelined recently.
Ivan Radenovic spent the last season in Greece. He tallied 10.7 points and 3.9 rebounds per game for Panellinios in the Greek A1. In EuroCup his stats came up to 13.9 points, 4.5 boards and 1.1 assists. The Arizona graduate Ivan Radenovic played for Girona in ACB. Radenovic started his career in Partizan.


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


Crvena Zvezda inks Bulgarian NT player FIlip Videnov - by Eurobasket News
KK Crvena Zvezda Belgrade announced arrival of Bulgarian National Team player Filip Videnov (196-F/G-80, agency: Interperformances, college: W.Kentucky). The 29-year old Videnov is coming to Serbia from Spanish team Kalise Gran Canaria. He appeared 31 times ACB last season averaging 5.8 ppg and 1.3 rpg. Videnov played for Team Bulgaria on EuroBasket 2009 in Poland collecting 13.2 ppg, 5.2 rpg and 4 apg for 6 games. He ended the contest as fifth ranked assistant.
Before Granca, Filip Videnov spent two seasons with Caja San Fernando Sevilla. Actually in January 2008 he moved from Sevilla to Solsonica Rieti. For 13 games in Italian Serie A he had 7.2 ppg and 2.2 rpg. In the past Videnov also was a member of Tekelspor Istanbul, Sluc Nancy and Split. With Nancy he reached the Pro A Finals in 2005. At the same year he played for Team Bulgaria on EuroBasket in Belgrade. For 3 games on that event Videnov exploded with 22.7 ppg, 2.7 rpg, 2.3 apg and 3 spg.
Filip Videnov is a product of Western Kentucky University, where he graduated in 2003. For 33 games in senior season Videnov had 9.6 ppg and 4.8 rpg.

Grizzlies and Marko Jaric to part ways - by Eurobasket News
The Memphis Grizzlies today announced that they have mutually agreed to allow guard Marko Jaric (6'6''-G-78) to not join the team for training camp and the preseason, and have provided permission for Jaric's agent to seek a roster spot with another team.

With the offseason additions of Allen Iverson, Marcus Williams and Sam Young, our backcourt has become crowded, Grizzlies General Manager and Vice President of Basketball Operations Chris Wallace said. Therefore, we have agreed with Marko Jaric and his representatives that he is permitted to seek out another situation that will provide him with a better opportunity to play. Marko is a proven NBA player and is deserving of such an opportunity.

Marko Jaric, a seven-year NBA veteran, owns career averages of 7.1 points, 2.7 rebounds and 3.6 assists in 25.2 minutes in 447 games with the Los Angeles Clippers, Minnesota Timberwolves and last season with the Grizzlies. Memphis acquired the 6-7, 224-pound guard, along with the draft rights to O.J. Mayo, Greg Buckner and Antoine Walker in exchange for the draft rights to Kevin Love, Mike Miller, Brian Cardinal and Jason Collins on June 26, 2008. Jaric was originally selected by the Clippers in the second round of the 2000 NBA Draft (30th overall) and played six years professionally in Europe before making his NBA debut in 2002.

Courtesy of www.insidehoops.com


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


Stats Leaders - D1
Points Per Game
 Jerice CROUCH
  Inter Bratislava
  (182-G-84)
  Avg: 29
 1. Crouch, Inter B.29.0 
 2. Hill, Nitra25.0 
 3. Gavel, Svit22.0 
 4. Skara, B.Bystrica22.0 
 5. Gudelj, Komarno20.0 
 6. Crawford, Levice19.0 
 7. Nicholson, Pezinok18.0 
 8. Majoros, Pezinok17.0 
 9. Majoros, Pezinok17.0 
 10. Futo, Vahostav-Zili.17.0 
Rebounds Per Game
 Gabriel SZALAY
  Prievidza
  (215-C-86)
  Avg: 10
 1. Szalay, Prievidza10.0 
 2. Nicholson, Pezinok9.0 
 3. Nizny, Vahostav.9.0 
 4. Nizny, Vahostav.9.0 
 5. Ravasz, Inter B.9.0 
 6. Nizny, Vahostav.9.0 
 7. Madaj, Komarno8.0 
 8. Stefanac, Inter B.8.0 
 9. Vraniak, Svit7.0 
 10. Mikulec, Komar.7.0 
Assists Per Game
 Clifford CRAWFORD
  Levice
  (194-G-81)
  Avg: 15
 1. Crawford, Levice15.0 
 2. Glavinic, Handlova12.0 
 3. Milosevic, Pezinok6.0 
 4. Milosevic, Pezinok6.0 
 5. Zavodny, Vahost.6.0 
 6. Milosevic, Pezinok6.0 
 7. Zavodny, Vahost.6.0 
 8. Zavodny, Vahost.6.0 
 9. Urland, Pezinok5.0 
 10. Urland, Pezin.5.0 
Steals Per Game
 David TOYA
  Pezinok
  (200-G/F-76)
  Avg: 6
 1. Toya, Pezinok6.0 
 2. Toya, Pezinok6.0 
 3. Toya, Pezinok6.0 
 4. Crawford, Levice5.0 
 5. Ivan, Inter B.4.0 
 6. Rendla, B.Bystrica3.0 
 7. Nizny, Vahostav.3.0 
 8. Nizny, Vahostav.3.0 
 9. Nizny, Vahostav.3.0 
 10. Podhorsky, Vaho.2.0 
Blocks Per Game
 Peter TILANDY
  Vahostav-Zilina
  (193-G-87)
  Avg: 3
 1. Tilandy, Vahost.3.0 
 2. Tilandy, Vahost.3.0 
 3. Bajic, Svit3.0 
 4. Tilandy, Vahost.3.0 
 5. Zavodny, Vahost.2.0 
 6. Crawford, Levice2.0 
 7. Zavodny, Vahost.2.0 
 8. Archibeque, Levice2.0 
 9. Zavodny, Vahost.2.0 
 10. Milosevic, Pezin.1.0 


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


Caja Laboral Injuries Ahead of Supercopa - by Paul Nilsen
Caja Laboral will be without three new signings when they head to Gran Canaria this weekend to fight it out with Real Madrid, Barcelona and the hosts for the ACB Supercopa. Both shooting guard Brad Oleson (191-G-83, agency: Duran International, college: Alaska-Fairb.) and former NBA man Walter Herrmann (207-F-79) have lost their battle to regain fitness along with Brazilian point guard Marcelinho Huertas (191-G-83, agency: Edge Sports) who has a severe muscle injury. Baskonia will therefore be under strength for the pinnacle of the ACB pre-season, hardly ideal as Dusko Ivanovic tries to gel his new look team ahead of the big tip-off.

*****************************************************
  SWITZERLAND   


Dan Fitzgerald replaces Terrance Roberson in SAM Massagno - by Eurobasket News
SAM Massagno decided to terminate the contract of Terrance Roberson (201-F-76, college: Fresno St.). The team immediately found the replacement. They inked a deal with Daniel Fitzgerald (206-F-84, agency: Court Side, college: Marquette). The 25-year-old forward played in Germany last season. He averaged 7.9 points and 2.4 boards per game for Ratiopharm Ulm in Bundesliga. Daniel Fitzgerald graduated from Marquette in 2008. His stats came up to 4.2 points and 2.0 boards per game in the senior year in college.


Lausanne ink Mike Henderson - by Eurobasket News
Lausanne strengthened their backcourt with addition of Mike Henderson (188-G-84, agency: Interperformances, college: Iowa). The 25-year-old guard was last seen in Bulgaria. He started the 2007/08 season together with CSKA Sofia. Mike Henderson averaged 14.0 points, 3.8 boards and 2.2 assists per game. In February 2008 the guard got injured and missed the reminder of the season. Henderson graduated from Iowa University. He tallied 5.8 points and 2.3 assists in his senior season.
In the meantime Lausanne decided to part ways with CJ Massingale (191-G-82, agency: Prossin Sports Management, college: Metro St.) and Lester Strong (201-F, college: Metro St.). The players arrived to Switzerland on try-outs but the teams decided to opt out of signing contracts.


French teams too strong for Swiss in friendly games - by Eurobasket News
Two French teams played two friendly games against Swiss teams registering one easy and one tiny win.
In Game 1, Chorale Roanne was too strong for BBC Nyon 84-62. Second quarter was crucial one in this game. After 14-15 for Nyon in the opening 10 minutes, Roanne players intensified defense letting their opponents to score just 9 more points until the half time. On the other side, they drained 23 for 13-point lead at the HT. Roanne just sealed this victory in the last quarter, 27-18. Uchenna Nsomwu (208-F/C-78, agency: Beo Basket, college: Wyoming) top-scored in victory with 15, while Nick Lewis (207-F/C-83, agency: Elfus-Siegel Management (ESM), college: San Diego) delivered one point less. Pape-Philippe Amagou (185-G-85) was third scorer in Roanne with 13 points. In BBC Nyon, Simon Amunugama (181-G-90) netted 18 pts.
In Game 2, Strasbourg IG had to work very hard in order to beat Benetton Fribourg 78-77. Sacha Giffa (197-G/F-77) led the winners with 15 points. Ben McCauley (206-F/C-86, college: N.Carolina St.) followed with 14. In the loosing squad, Brendon Polyblank (197-G/F-78, college: Texas St.-San Marcos) delivered 19. Strasbourg entered to last ten minutes with small deficit, but managed to grab this win at the very end. Last quarter ended 24-21 for the French team.

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


Bullets shot down Upstate in Central - by Albert-Lee Young
Longdenville Bullets defeated Upstate 80-73 to win game 1 of their best in three series in the Central Zone Commission 1st Division Big Four playoffs at the Central Regional Indoor Sports Arena, Chaguanas on Saturday night.

Adrian Baptiste led Bullets with 24 points and Keya Blackett added 23. For Upstate Kevin Sunich top scored with 17 points and Marvin Allen had 14.

In the North Zone, defending league champs Detour Shak Attack beat Sportworld Straker Nets 80-69 in the 1st Division Knockout semi final on Sunday night at the St Pauls Street Sporting Complex, Port of Spain.

Point guard Kenneth Roberts led Shak Attack with a game high 20 points and Shawn Lawrence added 19. For Nets Kern George top scored with 17 points, Hashim Arcia chipped in with 17 and Jamille King contributed 11.

The first game played was a 2nd Division Knockout semi final in which NFM Veterans easily defeated Republic Bank Arrows 75-58.

Dave Marshall led Veterans with 16 points, Roland Guicshard had 12 and former national standout Patrick KK Joseph tallied 11 points. For Arrows Kerron Haynes scored a game high 20 points and Jalani Joseph added 11.


BC Academy wins in East - by Albert-Lee Young
Brian Chase Academy defeated the defending champs Valencia Heat, 67-53, in game 1 of their best in three East Zone Commission Division 1Big Four Finals on Saturday night at the Maloney Indoor Sports Facility, Maloney Gardens.

Doyle Thomas had a game high 31 points for the Academy whilst Jason Perouse added 17. For Heat Jason Joseph top scored with 27 points and Dion Robinson tallied 18 points and 10 rebounds.

In the 2nd Division playoffs San Juan Warriors scored a slender 60-59 win against Heat second team to level their best of three series, 1-1.

Both series will continue on Wednesday night at the same venue.


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


Battle of the Virgin Islands: King of the Court - by David Edole
The University of the Virgin Islands is pleased to work with Sun Stroke Promotions to bring the 3rd Annual King of the Court Basketball tournament to the University of the Virgin Islands Sports and Fitness Center Friday and Saturday October 2nd and 3rd. This tournament was created as a Pre-Season test for the Buccaneers. And a test it is, as we bring the summer league champions from St. Thomas (One Unity), St. Croix (Hoyas) and Tortola (East) to compete alongside the Buccaneers. This years event is very special because it is the first time the tournament will be hosted in St. Thomas.
This is the perfect way to introduce UVIs student body and community to the impressive talent that the Bucs have compiled for the 2009-2010 season. The first game starts at 7 p.m. Friday October 2nd in UVI's Sports and Fitness Center with 2007 King of the Court Champions, Tortola's East taking on St. Thomas One Unity. The second game will feature the Three-Time St. Croix Champions and the defending champions of King of the Court the Hoyas versus the home team UVI Buccaneers.
Saturday October 3rd the losers of Fridays games will play at 7 p.m. and the winners will play in the championship.
Not only will this tournament provide a great brand of basketball but it is very necessary in the Bucs preparations for intercollegiate league play and their upcoming tournament in St. Maarten. Admission to this event is $7 for adults, $5 for students and $3 for children. Sun Stroke will have the usual events to get the crowd involved and even give several fans the chance to win cash.


Paradise Jam times announced - by David Edole
Paradise Jam Schedule with times..

Enter here to win a trip to the 2009 Paradise Jam

First round games:
Friday, November 20, 2009
Game 1:
DePaul vs. Northern Iowa
(2:00 pm local time/1:00 pm EST)

Game 2:
East Carolina vs. Tennessee
(4:30 pm local time/3:30 pm EST)

Game 3:
Saint Joseph's vs. Boston College
(7:00 pm local time/6:00 pm EST)

Game 4:
South Dakota State vs. Purdue
(9:30 pm local time/8:30 pm EST)

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

Second round games (Losers Bracket):
Saturday, November 21, 2009
Game 5:
Loser Game #1 vs. Loser Game #2
(7:00pm local time/6:00pm EST)

Game 6:
Loser Game #3 vs. Loser Game #4
(9:30pm local time/8:30pm EST)

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

Second round games (Winners Bracket):
Sunday, November 22, 2009
Game 7:
Winner Game #1 vs. Winner Game #2
(7:00pm local time/6:00pm EST)

Game 8:
Winner Game #3 vs. Winner Game #4
(9:30pm local time/8:30pm EST)

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

CHAMPIONSHIP ROUND:
Monday, November 23, 2009
Consolation 7th/8th Place Game:
Loser Game #5 vs. Loser Game #6
(2:00pm local time/1:00pm EST)

Consolation 4th/6th Place Game:
Winner Game #5 vs. Winner Game #6
(4:30pm local time/3:30pm EST)

Consolation 3rd/5th Place Game:
Loser Game #7 vs. Loser Game #8
(7:00pm local time/6:00pm EST)

CHAMPIONSHIP GAME:
Winner Game #7 vs. Winner Game #8
(9:30pm local time/8:30pm EST)


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


Standings
URBL Standings
D Division
 1. Austin F. 6-5 
 2. Houston S. 6-5 
 3. S. Antonio 5-6 
 4. Univ.City S. 3-7 
 5. Dallas 1-10 
National Division
 1. DFW 13-2 
 2. Irving A. 13-2 
 3. Converse F. 12-3 
 4. Houston G. 8-7 
 5. Texas M. 6-9 
 6. Katy S. 0-15 


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


Superleague Cup draw results and system - by Alexander Muzyka
This year Cup of Ukraine will be named as Superleague Cup and only Supperleague teams will fight for this trophy. There was a draw made by Algimantas Pavilonis and Stanislav Medvedenko at the Superleague presentation today. So the system of Superleague Cup will be the next:

Stage 1
11 Superleague teams (except eurocups' participants) were set to the Groups A and B for definding four winners of each of them by home and away calendar.
Group A: Politekhnika, Hoverla, Gryfony, Ferro-ZNTU, BC-93 Pulsar
Group B: Budivelnyk, Kryvbasbasket, Dnipro, Dnipro-Azot, MBC Mykolaiv, BC Odesa

Stage 2
Eight teams from the stage 1 will play at 1/8 finals: A1-B4, A2-B3, B2-A3, B1-A4

Stage 3
Winners of each pair of the stage 2 will play in 1/4 finals vs eurocups participants Azovmash, BC Donetsk, Khimik and BC Kyiv. The draw will have place later.

Stage 4
Final Four

Schedule will be announced later.


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


BBL Team of the Week #1 - by Andy Webb
BBL Championship Action began at the weekend, with seven games up and down the country, and the star performer of this seasons first team of the week, was former League MVP Lynard Stewart (202-F-74, college: Temple). The Newcastle Eagles Centre scored a double-double of 24 points and 13 rebounds, and shot an outstanding 90% from the field and 6/7 from the free throw line in his sides 85-74 victory over the Cheshire Jets on Friday evening.

Kenny Langhorne of the Guildford Heat took the small forward spot this week, after a strong display in the Heats 95-65 win over PAWS London Capital, of 21 points, making all six of his field goal attempts, 50% from behind the arc, and three from his four foul shots, in just 25:30 of playing time.

The team is though, by Jelson Homes DMU Leicester Riders trio, Taurean Minor, Bradd Wierzbicki and Jason Johnson. They all impressed in Leicesters 113-93 win over Sheffield Sharks on Saturday evening. New signing Minor had an inspiring triple-double of 19 points, 10 rebounds and 11 assists, Wierzbicki put up 32 points on 4/8 three point shooting and 8/9 from the free throw line, and they take the guard spots this week. BBL rookie Johnson, a 68 power forward, also had an impressive outing, with a double-double of 22 points and 13 rebounds, to complete this weeks line up.


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


Stats Leaders - LNB
LNB 2009 Stats Leaders
Points Per Game
V.D. Diaz, EST 20.3
D. Jaramillo, LAN 20.3
M. Flores, GAT 19.3
O. Mejias, MAN 19.3
J. Ramos, ACE 18.7
Rebounds Per Game
J. Romero, GRA 8.8
M. Patino, LAN 7.6
J. Ramos, ACE 7.5
P. Brito, ESP 5.2
Assists Per Game
M. Berroteran, EST 6.6
R. Guevara, TIB 3.8
K. Urdaneta, DUR 3.7
A. Quiroz, ESP 3.2
J. Pinero, GRA 2.8
Steals Per Game
M. Flores, GAT 4.3
R. Pachano, LAN 4.2
D. Chiquito, GRA 4.0
R. Basanta, LAN 4.0
Blocks Per Game
R. Osorio, GAT 2.8
E. Brock, TIB 1.6
D. Santos, DUR 1.0
3FGP
K. Urdaneta, DUR 44.1%
D. Cedeno, CEN 39.9%
V.D. Diaz, EST 39.2%
O. Mejias, MAN 36.3%
D. Jaramillo, LAN 33.3%
Free Throws
V.D. Diaz, EST 97.0%
J. Ramos, ACE 73.0%
M. Flores, GAT 58.0%
E. Brock, TIB 54.0%




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

Women News

*****************************************************
  DENMARK - Women  


Wins for Falcon, Lemvig and Virum at the start - by Eurobasket News
The Dameligaen tipped off on the weekend. Virum, Falcon and Lemvig posted victories.
Lemvig held off SISU 55:46 at home court. Lemvig stunned their opponents with a 21:6 run in the opening frame. Lemvig maintained the lead throughout the reminder of the battle and posted the initial victory. Rebecca Kielpinski (188-C) scored 14 points to pace the hosts. Heather Molzen (191-F/C-87) and Karina Pedersen added 12 points each in the win.
Virum overcame Horsens 71:63 on the road. Sarah Mahan (185-F-85, college: Lynn) top-scored with 16 points for the Vipers. Ditte Graae Jakobsen contributed 15 points for the visitors. Josefine Sorensen (169-G/F-87) answered with 22 points for Horsens.
Finally Falcon held off Vaerlose 72:61 at home. The visitors got to the better start leading by 5 points at the first break. But Falcon rallied to a 12-point advantage at halftime. The teams traded baskets in the second half with Falcon rolling to the win at the end. Sofie Vincents (171-G-86) poured in 32 points for Falcon. Anne Karina Pedersen added 15 points and 8 rebounds for the home team. Amy Bratvold (185-F) responded with 22 points and 9 rebounds in defeat.


*****************************************************
  FRANCE - Women  


French National Team 2009 - by Richard
#s#
Catherine Melain
Melain
Sandrine Gruda
Gruda
Celine Dumerc
Dumerc
Pauline Krawczyk
Krawczyk
Emmeline Ndongue
Ndongue
#e#6

4 Endene Miyem 188-F-88 Cercle Jean Mace Bourges France
5 Isabelle Yacoubou-Dehoui 190-C-86 Tarbes Gespe Bigorre France
6 Catherine Melain 183-F-74 Cercle Jean Mace Bourges France
7 Sandrine Gruda 193-C-87 Connecticut Sun USA
8 Emmanuelle Hermouet 183-F-79 Toulouse Metropole Basket France
9 Celine Dumerc 169-G-82 UMMC Ekaterinburg Russia
10 Pauline Krawczyk 180-F-85 Lattes Montpellier Agglomeration Basket France
11 Emilie Gomis 180-G-83 Villeneuve D'Asco ESB Lille Metropole France
12 Florence Lepron 183-F-85 Tarbes Gespe Bigorre France
13 Elodie Godin 190-C-85 Cras Taranto Italy
14 Emmeline Ndongue 190-C-83 Cercle Jean Mace Bourges France
15 Anael Lardy 170-G-87 Cercle Jean Mace Bourges France


Francophone Games in Lebanon
#s#
Marion Lemonnier
Lemonnier
Sabrine Bouzenna
Bouzenna
Eleonore Grossemy
Grossemy
Jodie Cornelie
Cornelie
Laure Mercier
Mercier
#e#6
4 Marion Lemonnier 172-G-92 Centre Federal BB France
5 Sabrine Bouzenna 169-G-93 Centre Federal BB France
6 Eleonore Grossemy 184-F-92 Centre Federal BB France
7 Jodie Cornelie 193-F-93 Centre Federal BB France
8 Laure Mercier 163-G-93 Centre Federal BB France
9 Helena Akmouche 174-G-92 Centre Federal BB France
10 Claire Stievenard 183-F-93
11 Adja Konteh 178-F-92 Centre Federal BB France
12 Florine Basque 184-F-92 Centre Federal BB France
13 Morgiane Eustache 194-G-91 Centre Federal BB France
14 Christelle Diallo 193-C-93 Centre Federal BB France
15 Manon Morel 192-C-92 Centre Federal BB France



LFB Stats Leaders
Points Per Game
 Emma RANDALL
  Targoviste
  (188-C-85)
  Avg: 17.8
 1. Randall, Clermont17.8 
 2. Das Neves, Clerm.17.1 
 3. Yacoubou-D., Tarbes16.8 
 4. Mosch, Lattes M.16.3 
 5. Mosby, Arras16.3 
 6. Grima, Aix-en-P.15.3 
 7. Robert, Villeneuve15.2 
 8. Wright, Tarbes14.1 
 9. Moore, Nantes14.1 
 10. Laborde, Land.13.3 
Rebounds Per Game
 Isabelle YACOUBOU-DEHOUI
  Tarbes
  (190-C-86)
  Avg: 10.7
 1. Yacoubou-D., Tarbes10.7 
 2. Robert, Villeneuve10.5 
 3. Randall, Clermont10.2 
 4. Humphrey, Landes8.7 
 5. Grima, Aix-en-P.8.4 
 6. Mosby, Arras7.8 
 7. Diouf, Landes7.6 
 8. Moore, Nantes7.4 
 9. Berezhynska, Reims7.4 
 10. Sy-Diop, Rei.7.4 
Assists Per Game
 Florence LEPRON
  Tarbes
  (183-F-85)
  Avg: 4.9
 1. Lepron, Villeneuve4.9 
 2. Wright, Tarbes4.8 
 3. Mitchell, Arras4.6 
 4. Bouderra, Nantes4.5 
 5. Sharp, Aix-en-Prov.4.5 
 6. Dumerc, Bourges4.3 
 7. Wambe, Union H.4.1 
 8. Melain, Bourges3.9 
 9. Das Neves, Clerm.3.8 
 10. Lardy, Clermo.3.7 
Steals Per Game
 Sarah MICHEL
  Arras
  (178-F/G-89)
  Avg: 5
 1. Michel, Arras5.0 
 2. Luptakova, Challes2.9 
 3. Dumerc, Bourges2.8 
 4. Robert, Villeneuve2.6 
 5. Anderson, Villeneuve2.1 
 6. Stansbury, Union H.1.9 
 7. Mitchell, Arras1.9 
 8. Mosch, Lattes M.1.9 
 9. Badiane, Challes1.8 
 10. Diouf, Land.1.7 
Blocks Per Game
 Mame-Marie SY-DIOP
  Reims
  (185-F-85)
  Avg: 1
 1. Sy-Diop, Reims1.0 
 2. Van Gorp, Nantes0.9 
 3. Ndongue, Bourges0.9 
 4. Sipaviciute, Arras0.9 
 5. Yacoubou-D., Tarbes0.7 
 6. Melain, Bourges0.7 
 7. Evtoukhovitc., Villen.0.7 
 8. Moeggenberg, Tar.0.6 
 9. Coulibaly, Landes0.6 
 10. Ndiaye, Tarb.0.6 


*****************************************************
  IVORY COAST - Women  


Ivory Coast National Team 2009 - by Richard
#s#
Salimata Berte
Berte
Assetou Kolga
Kolga
Awa Adja Kone
Kone
Kani Kouyate
Kouyate
Mariama Kouyate
Kouyate
#e#6
4 Salimata Berte 89 Abidijan Basketball Club Ivory Coast
5 Mariame Kolga 83 Club Sportif D'Abidjan Ivory Coast
6 Assetou Kolga 88 Club Sportif D'Abidjan Ivory Coast
7 Awa Adja Kone 88 Club Sportif D'Abidjan Ivory Coast
8 Blandine N'Goran 89 Abidijan Basketball Club Ivory Coast
9 Edwige Djedjemel 82 Club Sportif D'Abidjan Ivory Coast
10 Kani Kouyate 90 Club Sportif D'Abidjan Ivory Coast
11 Adjehid Abbady 87 Abidijan Basketball Club Ivory Coast
12 Mariame Gbane 82 Abidijan Basketball Club Ivory Coast
13 Mariama Kouyate 88 Club Sportif D'Abidjan Ivory Coast
14 Minata Fofana C-86 Club Sportif D'Abidjan Ivory Coast
15 Stephanie Ngarsanet 188-F-94 The American University USA
13 Zoubaida Larrami G-87


*****************************************************
  LUXEMBOURG - Women  


Black Star land LaKia Barber - by Eurobasket News
Black Star added LaKia Barber (180-F-87) to the roster. The team decided to axe Marina Ilieva from the squad and looked for the replacement. Black Star quickly found one as they agreed on terms of contract with the US player. LaKia Barber just graduated from Monmouth University. She averaged 12.7 points and 5.6 rebounds per game in the senior year. The forward made it to the NEC All-Tournament Team.


*****************************************************
  MADAGASCAR - Women  


FIBA Africa Championship for Women: Nigeria drop two players - by Olusegun Ikuesan
...final list out Thursday, name Udoka captain

As the jump-ball date for the 21st FIBA Africa Championship for Women draws closer, handlers of the Nigeria senior women national team, DTigress led by Coach Ayo Bakare are almost through with the final list of the Nigeria team as they intensify preparation for the championship.

The former Africa champion (2003 and 2005) Monday cut down it size with the dropping of two players from the list of fifteen players made up of six foreign-based and nine home-based players bringing the number of players left in camp to thirteen.

The two dropped players, Ijeoma Uchendu and Ima-obong Ekebo were praised by the coaches for their contribution towards the country qualification for the final round of the continent biggest women basketball competition.

The thirteen remaining players from where a list of twelve players will picked include, Mfon Udoka, Rashidat Sadiq, Funmilayo Ojelabi, Nkechi Akashili, Vera Angwe-Ellong, Tamunomiete Whyte, Magdalene Ukato, Vivian Ewalefo, Charity Egenti, Chioma Udeaja, Adeola Olanrewaju, Amaka Adibeli and Mactabene Amachree.

Coach Bakare says the two players still have age on their side and should be ready for the big occasion in future, he, however added that the team final 12-list that will be paraded in Antananarivo, Madagascar next month will be unveiled Thursday and confirm Mfon Udoka as team captain.

It was a difficult task coming to term with which player to drop but some must actually give way since the Nigeria Basketball Federation, (NBBF) does not have the fund to go to Madagascar with fifteen players, concluded Coach Bakare.

The team has lined-up two friendly games against First Bank basketball club and First Deepwater Basketball Club.
Mfon Udoka (190-F/C-76, college: De Paul)

*****************************************************
  MALI - Women  


Mali National Team 2009 - by Richard
#s#
Mariatou Diarra
Diarra
Traore Natira
Natira
Hamchetou Maiga-Ba
Maiga-Ba
Kadiatou Toure
Toure
Miriam Sy
Sy
#e#6
4 Adizatov Maiga
5 Fatoumata Dia 85
6 Mariatou Diarra 178-G-85 Clube Universitario Dakar Senegal
7 Traore Natira 90
8 Marico Aumiata
9 Hamchetou Maiga-Ba 184-G/F-78 Sacramento Monarchs USA
10 Kadiatou Toure 174-G/F-83 ASPTT Alger Algeria
11 Maiga Airata
12 Tirira Meiya
13 Miriam Sy 193-C-79 Crvena Zvezda Beograd Serbia
14 Aminata Sininta 185-C-85 Djoliba Athletic Club Mali
15 Astan Dabo 203-C-92 Strasbourg Alsace Basketball Club France


*****************************************************
  NIGERIA - Women  


FIBA Africa Championship for Women: Nigeria drop two players - by Olusegun Ikuesan
...final list out Thursday, name Udoka captain

As the jump-ball date for the 21st FIBA Africa Championship for Women draws closer, handlers of the Nigeria senior women national team, DTigress led by Coach Ayo Bakare are almost through with the final list of the Nigeria team as they intensify preparation for the championship.

The former Africa champion (2003 and 2005) Monday cut down it size with the dropping of two players from the list of fifteen players made up of six foreign-based and nine home-based players bringing the number of players left in camp to thirteen.

The two dropped players, Ijeoma Uchendu and Ima-obong Ekebo were praised by the coaches for their contribution towards the country qualification for the final round of the continent biggest women basketball competition.

The thirteen remaining players from where a list of twelve players will picked include, Mfon Udoka, Rashidat Sadiq, Funmilayo Ojelabi, Nkechi Akashili, Vera Angwe-Ellong, Tamunomiete Whyte, Magdalene Ukato, Vivian Ewalefo, Charity Egenti, Chioma Udeaja, Adeola Olanrewaju, Amaka Adibeli and Mactabene Amachree.

Coach Bakare says the two players still have age on their side and should be ready for the big occasion in future, he, however added that the team final 12-list that will be paraded in Antananarivo, Madagascar next month will be unveiled Thursday and confirm Mfon Udoka as team captain.

It was a difficult task coming to term with which player to drop but some must actually give way since the Nigeria Basketball Federation, (NBBF) does not have the fund to go to Madagascar with fifteen players, concluded Coach Bakare.

The team has lined-up two friendly games against First Bank basketball club and First Deepwater Basketball Club.
Mfon Udoka (190-F/C-76, college: De Paul)

*****************************************************
  POLAND - Women  


Maja Vucorovic in Wisla Can Pack - by Ania Cwikla
Vucorvic signed contract with Wisla Can Pack for three years.Young Serbian representant plays in U-18.In last European basketball championship Maja gets 11pts, 6,9 rebounds and 1,9 asists.Last season Vucorovic spent in BC Radivoj Korac Belgrad.President of Wisla Can Pack said that club decided to signed 3 year contract because club is looking in the future.18 years old Vucorovic is young great player,she likes work hard and they are sure she will be one of the best players in team.

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


Santia's solid Debut! - by Rafael Otero
The very versatile Santia Jackson (186-F-81, college: Georgetown) had a very strong debut last week pushing her team Guaynabo Conquistadoras to a relatively easy Win versus current Champs Montaneras de Morovis 90-75. The 6'1 Female put up a double-double in her first game in Puerto Rico scoring 26pts and grabbing 11 rebounds. She also went 2-4 from behind the arc. The Georgetown graduate left a good impression to all people who went to the Mario Jimenez Coliseum to see her play. In Guaynabo she joins imports Shantrelle Moss and Janee Hayes along with a very young but talented supporting cast who really seems like a potential team to go far in the playoffs. Santia is in great shape and is proving that she belongs to the female's elite overseas. Her team still got two more games before their Regular season ends, both on the road. The first will be this next Friday october 2 at Aguas Buenas and Sunday october 4 at Carolina.

*****************************************************
  SLOVENIA - Women  


Merkur Selje wins the latest two games in Kranjska Gora - by Eurobasket News
Merkur Selje wins the latest two games in Kranjska Gora at the Herkslovega Memorial. In the game against AJM Maribor, Selje team celebrated 77:61 victory. The latter opened the game with 26-17 and increased to 7 more points at the halftime. Merkus added 20-17 in the third period, while Maribor team bounced with 15-12 in the last frame. Matea Tavic (178-G-92) top-scored for the winners with 19 points and Nikya Hughes (191-F/C-85) added 18. Nika Baric (169-G-92) netted 14, while Turcinovic scored 7. Tisler ended up with 18 points in the losing effort and Kure had 17.
In the last game Merkur Selje won a thriller over Hit Krahjska Gora 69:68. The latter opened the game with 15-13 and had massive 23-13 in the second period. Merkur responded with 15-9 in the third frame and exploded with 28-21 for the total win. Nika Baric top-scored for the winners with 23 points and Nikya Hughes netted 14. Verbole posted 8 and Jagodic nailed 5. Tratsiak finished the night with 18 points in defeat, while Pantsiukh and Gacner scored 11 each. Trebec and Jurse delivered 8 points each for ther team.

HIT KRANJSKA GORA MERKUR CELJE 68:69 (15:13, 23:13, 9:15, 21:28)
HIT KRANJSKA GORA: Pantsiukh 11, Panic 3, Jurse 8, Oblak 7, Nelc, Kolsek, Gacner 11, Lumpert, Tratsiak 18, Osterman 2, Purkat, Trebec 8, trener: Emir Haskic
MERKUR CELJE: Matea Tavic 17, Turcinovic 2, Kerin, Abramovic, Jevtovic, Nika Baric 23, Verbole 8, Jagodic 5, Richards, Kopusar, Klavzar, Nikya Hughes 14, trener: Damir Grgic

AJM MARIBOR MERKUR CELJE 61:77 (17:26, 12:19, 17:20, 15:12)
AJM: Tisler 18, Novi, Kukovec 1, Dover, Prsa 5, Kure 17, Komocar, Skerget, Hanzic, Ilijev 12, Furman 6, Baltic 2, trener Sergej Ravnikar
MERKUR CELJE: Matea Tavic 19, Turcinovic 7, Abramovic, Nikya Hughes 18, Nika Baric 14, Verbole 4, Kerin 6, Jagodic, Richards 4, Jevtovic, Kopusar 5, Klavzar, trener Damir Grgic


*****************************************************
  TRINIDAD AND TOBAGO - Women  


Pacers swamped BC Academy - by Albert-Lee Young
Teenager Chantael Perry scored a career high 30 points to guide Unit Trust Maloney Pacers A team to a convincing 59-41 win against Brian Chase Academy in game 1 of their best of three series in the East Zone Commission Women Big Four Finals at the Maloney Indoor Sports Facility, Maloney Gardens on Saturday night.

The speedy Perry got valuable support from Natalie Phillip who registered 12 points with 12 rebounds and Sharon Peters who scored 12 points for Pacers. Allison Young led Academy with 14 points & 14 rebounds and point guard Stephanie Isaacs contributed 10 points.

Game two will be played on Tuesday night at the same venue.

*****************************************************
  TUNISIA - Women  


Tunisian National Team 2009 - by Richard
4 Heriem Werteni F-88
5 Khoulud Meften F-82
7 Fatma Zagrouba F-82 CSS Tunisia
8 Mehe Cheli C-81
9 Thoraya Adisi F-82
6 Heriem Hamrounni F-82
10 Rim Ganar F-89
11 Nedra Dhibi F-87
12 Selma Mnasria G-88
13 Zoubaida Larrami G-87
14 Lilia Inoubli G-92
15 Hela Msadak